World
PRAGUE, — Czech defence manufacturer KBP International has unveiled its new GRYF unmanned aircraft, designed to carry interceptor drones and lightweight missiles to engage hostile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The system was presented at the 16th Future Forces Forum at PVA Expo Prague in the presence of Czech President Petr Pavel and military officials. GRYF Designed for Long-Endurance Counter-Drone Operations Unlike conventional strike drones, GRYF operates as a flying weapons carrier that can remain airborne for extended periods and deploy counter-drone interceptors against incoming threats. The platform is intended to support a layered air defence approach by positioning interceptors near protected areas. According to specifications provided by the manufacturer, GRYF has an endurance of up to 12 hours, an operational range of 500 kilometres and a cruising speed of 150 km/h. It is powered by a four-cylinder internal combustion piston engine. The aircraft features four hardpoints and a maximum payload capacity of 50 kg, allowing it to carry lightweight interceptor missiles weighing approximately 5 kg each. At the Prague exhibition, KBP displayed GRYF in two configurations: one equipped with small interceptor missiles and another carrying interceptor drones. Its modular design allows operators to change payloads according to mission requirements. Focus on Cost-Effective Air Defence KBP presented GRYF as a potential solution to the growing demand for more affordable counter-drone capabilities. By remaining on patrol near critical infrastructure, the aircraft can position interceptors to engage hostile drones, potentially reducing the cost per engagement compared with conventional ground-based air defence missiles. Its airborne deployment concept could also extend defensive coverage beyond the reach of fixed launch sites. KBP Expands Drone Manufacturing Capabilities GRYF builds on KBP Group’s more than 30 years of experience in composite aircraft structures. The company manages the design and manufacturing of unmanned aircraft, piston aero engines and key structural components in-house, covering processes from initial design and prototyping to series production. KBP is expanding its production facilities to increase manufacturing capacity for its own products and support cooperation with other European aerospace and defence companies. TARON and SABRE Also Presented Alongside GRYF, KBP introduced two other unmanned aircraft at the exhibition. The TARON is a piston-powered target and one-way attack drone with an endurance of 30 minutes, a range of 70 kilometres and a maximum flight altitude of 1,500 metres. The SABRE is a jet-powered drone designed for high-speed operations. It can reach speeds of 400 km/h, has a range of 400 kilometres and carries a payload of 30 kg. It is designed for launch from mobile catapults to support flexible field operations. KBP International served as a main partner of the 16th Future Forces Forum, which ran from October 21 to 23, 2026, bringing together approximately 530 exhibitors and official delegations from 65 countries. The company has not yet announced production timelines or initial customers for the GRYF system. Main Sourec : Militarnyi
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 17:01:15
World
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia, — Saudi Arabia appears to be expanding its al-Duwadimi ballistic missile complex to support the production of larger solid-fuel missiles capable of carrying heavier payloads or reaching longer distances, according to satellite imagery analysis by researchers at the US-based Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI), reported by Reuters. Researchers Sam Lair and Michael Duitsman examined images from US-based Planet Labs covering April 2025 to September 2026. The complex is located approximately 200 kilometres (125 miles) west of Riyadh. New Facility for Missile Production The imagery shows a new building at least twice the size of the existing facility believed to contain missile motor casting pits. Construction began with ground clearing and excavation in April 2025. Images from December 12, 2025, showed two deep pits inside the unfinished structure, while images from September 18, 2026, showed heavy-duty blast-diverting walls installed on either side, with the roof still partly unfinished. Researchers assess that the pits are used to pour solid-propellant mixtures into missile motor casings, where the material hardens. The protective walls are designed to direct accidental explosions away from nearby structures. A second new building may be intended for storing propellant ingredients or finished missile components. The researchers estimate that production could begin by the end of 2026, although installing specialised equipment may take several additional months. 🇸🇦 Saudi Arabia appears to be expanding its ballistic missile factory to build larger solid-fuel missiles, according to researchers who analyzed commercial satellite images, Reuters reports. Images taken between April 2025 and September 2026 show a new building at the al-Duwadimi complex, about 200 km (125 miles) west of Riyadh, at least twice the size of the existing facility and likely used for casting missile motors. A second new building may store fuel ingredients or finished components. Researchers Sam Lair and Michael Duitsman of the Foreign Policy Research Institute said the expansion would let the kingdom produce missiles with longer ranges or heavier payloads, and the facility could start production as early as the end of 2026. — Military Summary (@MilitarySummary) October 23, 2026 Possible Chinese Missile Technology Solid-fuel missiles can be stored for long periods and prepared for launch more quickly than liquid-fuel systems. Saudi Arabia acquired approximately 40 Chinese DF-3 liquid-fuel ballistic missiles in 1987, according to a declassified 1991 CIA estimate. Two were publicly displayed during a military parade in 2014. Lair and Duitsman have also identified what they assessed as wreckage in Yemen from a Chinese-designed DF-15 solid-fuel ballistic missile fired by Saudi forces. Lair said Saudi Arabia may already be manufacturing the DF-15 and assessed that the expanded facility could support production of the longer-range DF-21 or a comparable system. However, the satellite imagery does not confirm which missiles the facility will produce. Strategic Implications The expansion comes as Saudi Arabia seeks greater self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Longer-range missiles could strengthen its ability to deter potential threats from Iran and support military operations involving Yemen's Houthi forces. The development could also influence regional security and discussions over a proposed US-Saudi civilian nuclear cooperation agreement. Some US lawmakers have raised concerns about potential weapons-proliferation risks associated with nuclear cooperation, while Saudi Arabia denies pursuing a nuclear weapons programme. The United States has long restricted exports of longer-range missile systems, contributing to Saudi Arabia's historical reliance on China for such capabilities. The Saudi embassy in Washington and the kingdom's Information Ministry did not respond to requests for comment, according to Reuters. The findings are based on open-source satellite imagery and researchers' assessments; the exact missile types, production capacity and operational timeline remain unconfirmed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 16:49:51
India
NAGPUR, India, — Solar Defence and Aerospace Ltd. (SDAL) has begun delivering its indigenous Nagastra-2 anti-tank loitering munition system to the Indian Army following successful technical trials at the Mahajan Field Firing Range (MFFR) in August 2026. During the trials, the system’s operational performance and compliance with Electronic Counter-Countermeasures (ECCM) requirements were evaluated. Nagastra-2 Capabilities Designed for precision strikes against armoured targets, Nagastra-2 carries a 4 kg tandem shaped-charge warhead capable of penetrating up to 650 mm of Rolled Homogeneous Armour (RHA). It offers an operational range of 25 km in recover-and-reuse mode and 50 km in fire-and-forget mode, with an endurance of up to 60 minutes. The system features day-and-night electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) surveillance cameras to support target observation and engagement. It also uses encrypted video and telemetry links and incorporates an ECCM suite designed to improve resilience against electronic warfare threats, including communication jamming, GPS jamming and spoofing. Testing and Indigenous Manufacturing Before delivery, the system was also tested in different operational environments, including high-altitude conditions in Ladakh and the plains of Babina, Uttar Pradesh. Manufactured at SDAL’s Nagpur facility, Nagastra-2 is part of India’s efforts to expand domestic defence manufacturing and develop indigenous precision-strike systems. Previous Nagastra-1R Deliveries The latest delivery follows the Indian Army’s 2025 order for approximately 450 Nagastra-1R loitering munitions under emergency procurement. SDAL delivered these systems in mid-October 2026. The Nagastra-1R features a reusable launcher system, a 360-degree gimbal camera with an optional thermal camera for night operations, encrypted video and telemetry communications, and a reported 2-metre Circular Error Probable (CEP). The company has stated that the Nagastra-1R contains more than 80% indigenous components. According to SDAL, Nagastra-2 adds another system to its loitering munition portfolio for the Indian Army, supporting precision engagement of armoured targets and the development of Made-in-India defence technologies.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 16:36:21
U.S
EL SEGUNDO, California, — The U.S. Space Force has awarded its first operational contracts under the Commercial Augmentation Space Reserve (CASR) programme to six companies providing satellite tracking and space surveillance capabilities during military crises and periods of increased demand. The selected companies are Anduril, LeoLabs, Slingshot Aerospace and InTrack of the United States, EOS Space Systems of Australia, and NorthStar Earth & Space of Canada. The contracts were awarded through the ACCESS framework, used by Joint Commercial Operations (JCO) to procure commercial data and data-fusion services. Space Surveillance Capabilities The contracts focus on Space Domain Awareness (SDA), including tracking satellites, monitoring orbital manoeuvres, and identifying space debris and spacecraft breakups. The companies will provide commercial data and services to support JCO activities during routine operations and periods of increased demand. CASR is modelled on the U.S. Air Force’s Civil Reserve Air Fleet (CRAF), which uses commercial aircraft to supplement military airlift during national emergencies. Developed since 2022, CASR allows the military to expand its use of commercial space capabilities without owning and maintaining all the required infrastructure. The programme has three operational levels: day-to-day operations for routine monitoring, priority operations during regional conflicts, and full CASR execution during major international crises or war. From Pilot Phase to Operational Contracts A pilot programme began in 2025, when four space domain awareness companies received 90-day contracts worth a combined $1.1 million. The Space Force subsequently conducted wargames and training exercises to test the integration of commercial data and services into military operations. The new contracts move CASR into its operational phase for space domain awareness. All six companies already work with the Joint Commercial Operations Cell, which integrates commercial space data and shares it with U.S. military and international partners. Lt. Col. Brandon Galindo said operators consider these companies trusted sources when additional tracking is required, including after an on-orbit event that generates debris. Col. Timothy Trimailo, director of the Space Systems Command’s Commercial Space Office, said the programme integrates established commercial capabilities into government systems when additional capacity is needed. The selection process assessed commercial offerings, readiness and integration pathways. The financial values of the new contracts were not disclosed, although officials described the initial amounts as relatively low. Funding may be adjusted as combatant commands identify demand. Future Expansion The vendor pool remains open to additional companies with proven, trusted capabilities. The Space Force is also evaluating future CASR applications in satellite communications, launch services, and spacecraft telemetry, tracking and command. The programme aims to strengthen U.S. space surveillance by combining commercial and government systems. Space Systems Command plans to apply lessons from the initial contracts to future commercial integration. Interested companies can contact the Space Force through its established industry engagement channels.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 16:30:01
World
TEHRAN, Iran, — Iran is continuing restoration work at its Eagle 44 (Oghab 44) underground airbase in southern Hormozgan province following at least three reported rounds of airstrikes against the facility in 2026. Satellite imagery captured by Planet Labs on September 29 shows that runway obstacles have been removed, a new taxiway section has been completed and further construction is underway. Satellite Images Show Restoration Progress Located in the foothills of the Zagros Mountains, approximately 100 miles (160 kilometres) northwest of the Strait of Hormuz, Eagle 44 is operated by the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force (IRIAF). Its underground tunnels and hangars are designed to shelter aircraft and other military equipment. The main runway measures approximately 2.7 miles (4.3 kilometres). According to The War Zone, the latest imagery shows that the main runway, previously blocked by obstacles, is now clear. A new section of the western taxiway, including its concrete surface, has been completed. Work on the adjoining section is continuing, with compacted, stabilised soil laid but paving still unfinished. Once completed, the second taxiway would provide another connection between the western underground hangars and the main runway. However, craters remain visible near the western tunnel entrances, while two support buildings remain destroyed and a third is damaged. Debris from damaged equipment has also been cleared from taxiway areas. Base Was Targeted Multiple Times in 2026 Eagle 44 was targeted during the conflict that began on February 28, 2026, with further damage reported in late March and around July 15–16. Earlier imagery showed craters near the tunnel entrances, damage to surface infrastructure and obstacles placed along the runway. The Pentagon and U.S. Central Command have not publicly identified Eagle 44 as a specific strike target, and Iran has not acknowledged attacks on the facility. The latest satellite imagery confirms visible surface repairs, but it does not establish the condition of the underground hangars or the equipment stored inside. Iran Unveiled Eagle 44 in 2023 Iranian state media first presented Eagle 44 publicly in February 2023, showing F-4 Phantom fighter jets, drones and missile systems operating from the underground complex. Construction of the tunnel network began around 2013, while work on the main runway started several years later. The restoration comes amid U.S. assessments that Iran's air force has suffered severe losses. U.S. Central Command chief Admiral Brad Cooper told Congress in May 2026 that Iranian air force combat sorties had fallen from between 30 and 100 daily before the campaign to zero. However, the current number and operational condition of Iran's remaining aircraft are unclear. The latest imagery indicates that Iran is prioritising runway clearance and taxiway reconstruction at Eagle 44, although the extent to which the facility can resume full operations remains unknown.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 16:05:33
World
XI’AN, China, — Commercial satellite imagery has revealed four of China’s KJ-3000 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft at the Xi’an-Yanliang airfield complex in Shaanxi province, raising the possibility that the programme is moving towards low-rate or serial production. However, the imagery does not confirm that serial production has begun. Four Aircraft Seen at Xi’an-Yanliang The imagery, captured by Vantor on October 5, 2026, and examined by independent analysts, including MizarVision, shows three aircraft near the Xi’an Aircraft Company (XAC) production facilities and a fourth at the nearby China Flight Test Establishment (CFTE). J. Michael Dahm of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies assessed the sighting as consistent with the programme entering serial production. However, analyst Andreas Rupprecht cautioned that the four aircraft could be previously identified prototypes gathered at the same location. Clearer photographic evidence, including aircraft serial numbers and operational paint schemes, would help establish their production status. CHINA | Four KJ-3000 Radar Aircraft Spotted in New Satellite Imagery New Vantor satellite imagery captured on October 5, 2026, reveals four Chinese KJ-3000 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft at Xi’an-Yanliang. Three aircraft are positioned near the Xi’an Aircraft Company production facilities, while a fourth is visible at the nearby flight-test establishment. The presence of four KJ-3000 aircraft raises the possibility that China has entered low-rate or serial production of its next-generation airborne early warning platform. Based on the Y-20B airframe, the KJ-3000 is designed to strengthen long-range surveillance, aerial command and control, and coordination of combat aircraft across the Indo-Pacific. These capabilities could significantly enhance Chinese operations around Taiwan and the South China Sea. However, the imagery does not conclusively establish serial production. All four aircraft could still be previously identified prototypes. Imagery: Vantor Captured: October 5, 2026 Published: October 22, 2026 Analysis: @MizarVision — MizarVision (@MizarVision) October 23, 2026 KJ-3000 Design and Capabilities The KJ-3000 is based on China’s domestically developed Y-20B heavy transport aircraft and is powered by four Chinese-made Shenyang WS-20 turbofan engines. Its design features a large circular radar dome on the upper fuselage and an in-flight refuelling probe above the cockpit. The aircraft is expected to use advanced active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar technology for airborne surveillance and command-and-control missions. Its first flight-testing appearance was reported in December 2024, and two prototypes, identified by numbers 7821 and 7822, had been documented in open sources before the latest satellite imagery. The KJ-3000 is expected to succeed the KJ-2000, which was built using imported Russian Il-76 airframes. Only four KJ-2000 aircraft were completed, making the domestically based KJ-3000 an important development for China’s large airborne early warning fleet. Significance for China’s Air Surveillance China operates approximately 70 airborne early warning and control aircraft, with the smaller, turboprop-powered KJ-500 forming a major part of its fleet. The larger KJ-3000 is intended to strengthen long-range surveillance, aerial command and control, and coordination of combat aircraft. If the programme advances to regular production and service, the aircraft could improve China’s ability to monitor and coordinate air operations across the Indo-Pacific, including areas around Taiwan and the South China Sea. For now, the four aircraft visible in the satellite imagery indicate possible progress in the programme, but further imagery or official confirmation is needed to establish whether serial production has started.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 15:52:10
World
MOSCOW, — Russia’s state-owned Rostec corporation has announced that the integrated flight control system developed for the SJ-100 Superjet has completed a three-year qualification programme involving approximately 1,500 tests, bringing the system closer to certification. Developed by enterprises of the Radio-Electronic Technologies Concern (KRET), the system transmits pilot commands to the aircraft’s flight control surfaces and actuators. Development is led by the Moscow Institute of Electromechanics and Automation (MIEA), which coordinates work across multiple factories and research institutes. Extensive Testing and Safety Features The qualification programme covered approximately 500 components and systems across more than 30 categories of external impacts. Testing assessed resistance to vibration, humidity, icing, electromagnetic interference, voltage surges, salt fog, sand, dust, fire, water, magnetic fields, radio-frequency interference and contaminating fluids. Engineers also verified strength, service-life characteristics, and hardware and software compliance. Lightning-protection tests subjected the equipment to voltage pulses of up to 1,500 volts, approximately 55 times the normal onboard electrical system voltage, to assess its ability to withstand short-duration electrical disturbances. Thermal testing exposed the hardware to temperatures ranging from −55°C to +85°C, beyond its specified operating range of −40°C to +70°C. The programme also included assessments under simulated fire conditions. The system features four-channel redundancy, including four distinct rudder-control channels with dissimilar designs. This architecture is intended to maintain aircraft controllability if individual components or channels fail. Rostec states that the system is designed to meet a maximum failure probability of one in a billion (10⁻⁹). KRET Chief Executive Alexander Pan said Russian enterprises had produced the system entirely, from design drawings to serial production samples, and that its performance was comparable to foreign equivalents. SJ-100 chief designer Kirill Kuznetsov described the integrated control system as one of the aircraft’s key systems, with particularly high reliability requirements. According to Rostec, the test results confirm that the system meets safety requirements and is ready for use on the aircraft. Part of Russia’s Import-Substitution Programme The development is part of Russia’s broader effort to replace foreign aerospace components with domestically produced alternatives following Western sanctions. KRET is manufacturing approximately 650 components across 11 enterprises for the Superjet programme, including avionics, control panels, lighting systems, hydraulic and fuel-system sensors, warning devices and flight-data recording equipment. More than 40 categories of foreign components have been replaced with Russian-made alternatives for the SJ-100. The aircraft is also transitioning to domestically produced PD-8 turbofan engines, developed by the United Engine Corporation (UEC), which completed their own certification test campaigns earlier in 2026, according to the provided information. The SJ-100 is a regional passenger jet designed to carry up to 103 passengers. Prototype flight testing continued in September and October 2026, including activities in Minsk, Belarus, and Novosibirsk, with work focused on systems such as the autopilot and automatic landing capabilities. Final Certification Still Pending Rostec confirmed that the integrated flight control system has entered the final stage of certification. However, completion of the qualification programme does not constitute final approval. Certification by Russian aviation authorities and subsequent operational performance will determine whether the system meets the requirements for commercial airline use.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 15:44:14
Europe
MADRID, SPAIN — The Spanish Navy and state-owned shipbuilder Navantia are developing an enhanced version of the F110 Bonifaz-class frigate, known as the F110 Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) variant, to strengthen Spain’s naval air and missile defence capabilities. The project follows the Spanish Navy’s Armada 2050 strategic requirements and builds on the five baseline F110 frigates currently under construction. Navantia displayed a scale model of the proposed F110 Flight II/IAMD configuration at DALO Industry Days 2026 in Denmark. Larger Design and Increased Missile Capacity The proposed frigate will measure approximately 150 metres long, with a beam of around 18.6 metres and a displacement of approximately 6,700 tonnes, compared with 145 metres and 6,100 tonnes for the baseline F110. Earlier design information indicates a crew of around 170, a maximum speed exceeding 29 knots and a cruising speed above 18 knots, supported by more powerful gas turbines. Its 64 Mk 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) cells, compared with 16 on the baseline F110, will be arranged in forward and aft groups to accommodate different missile types, including longer-range surface-to-air missiles. An enhanced Lockheed Martin SPY-7 solid-state radar will support the detection, tracking and engagement of multiple threats, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles and uncrewed aerial systems. The frigate is designed for area air defence, escorting high-value assets and coordinating air defence within naval task groups. Advanced Combat Systems and Multi-Mission Capabilities The F110 IAMD will use SCOMBA New Generation (NG), Navantia’s next-generation combat management system. Its cloud-based architecture will integrate sensors, weapons, onboard systems, data links and uncrewed vehicles (UxVs), providing a shared tactical picture and supporting interoperability with NATO and European Union task groups. Its open, scalable and cyber-secure design will allow the integration of future sensors, weapons and countermeasures. The frigate will retain the F110 family’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-surface warfare (ASuW) and electronic warfare capabilities, alongside asymmetric-threat protection. Its mission space will accommodate mission modules, uncrewed vehicles and a second helicopter. Navantia’s Smart Ship technologies will include a Digital Twin, condition-based maintenance and an integrated platform management system to monitor ship condition, anticipate maintenance needs, improve operational availability and support crew training. Earlier design information also identified onboard 3D printing for producing spare parts during deployments. Industrial Impact and Programme Status The programme is expected to involve more than 500 Spanish companies, technology centres and academic institutions, supporting domestic shipbuilding capabilities and Spain’s strategic autonomy. Earlier public presentations indicated plans for two F110 Flight II/IAMD frigates in addition to the five baseline ships. Their final configuration is being refined by Navantia, the Spanish Navy and the Ministry of Defence according to operational requirements and the procurement process. Construction of the first five F110 frigates continues at Navantia’s Ferrol shipyard. The lead ship, Bonifaz (F111), was launched in September 2025 and is undergoing fitting out, with delivery planned for 2028. The remaining ships are at different stages of construction. The F110 IAMD programme will extend the existing frigate family with stronger air and missile defence capabilities while retaining its multi-mission role.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 15:37:04
U.S
WASHINGTON, — The US Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has awarded California-based defence company Long Wall $75 million to complete flight testing of its Cyclops low-cost missile interceptor. The company announced the award on October 22 and will contribute an additional $75 million of its own funding, bringing the combined investment to $150 million. Cyclops Interceptor Designed for Mass Production Long Wall began developing Cyclops in 2024 using its own funding and publicly unveiled the system in December 2025. The liquid-fuelled, exo-atmospheric interceptor is designed to engage enemy missiles during the midcourse phase of flight, outside Earth's atmosphere. The company describes it as the first interceptor in its class designed specifically for mass production. Cyclops uses commercial off-the-shelf components and additive manufacturing, including 3D printing, to support its manufacturing approach. According to Long Wall, the interceptor fits inside a standard shipping container, allowing it to be launched from ground sites or sea-based platforms. $150 Million for Development and Testing Long Wall will invest an additional $75 million in private funding alongside the MDA award to continue Cyclops design, development and testing. The company said it had already spent two years of private capital on the programme. Co-founder and Chief Executive Officer Dan Piemont said rising demand for interceptors, limited production capacity and high unit costs had created challenges in replenishing missile defence inventories. He described the award as a significant commitment to developing a new approach to long-range missile defence. Long Wall co-founder, Chairman and President Harry O’Hanley said the company was using modern computing hardware and advances in optics and propulsion manufacturing to support the programme. The company operates development, testing and production facilities spanning more than 180,000 square feet across 100 acres at three major sites. Headquartered in Long Beach, California, Long Wall has operations in California, Alaska and Alabama. It was formed in February 2025 through the rebranding of ABL Space Systems, which shifted its focus from small satellite launch vehicles to missile defence. The MDA award announcement did not specify the number of interceptors to be tested or provide a detailed flight-test schedule. The contract duration and production timeline were also not disclosed. US Expands Search for Lower-Cost Interceptors Cyclops is intended to perform a midcourse interception role similar to that of the US Ground-Based Interceptor (GBI), currently built by Northrop Grumman. The MDA is also exploring lower-cost interceptor options for the terminal phase, when incoming missiles re-enter the atmosphere. In August 2026, the agency awarded nearly $11 million to X-Bow Systems to flight-test a solid-fuel interceptor being considered as a potential lower-cost alternative to systems such as the Patriot. Long Wall’s award is part of wider US efforts to develop missile defence systems that can be manufactured in greater numbers while addressing production capacity and cost challenges.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 15:27:57
Europe
COPENHAGEN, — Denmark will acquire Anthem ground-launched cruise missiles from US defence company Covenant Industries and Joint Strike Missiles (JSM) from Norway’s Kongsberg, marking the country’s first land-based capability to strike targets deep inside enemy territory. The Danish Ministry of Defence announced the procurement following a recommendation from the chief of defence. Contracts managed by Denmark’s Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) have been signed, but quantities, costs and delivery schedules remain undisclosed for security reasons. Officials cited competitive pricing and relatively quick delivery as factors in the selection. Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus said the acquisitions would strengthen Denmark’s defence capabilities, support its contribution to NATO and demonstrate its ability to respond to an attack. Anthem Cruise Missile and Production The Anthem is a low-cost, ground-launched cruise missile designed for high-volume production. It uses a solid-fuel rocket booster for launch and a heavy-fuel jet engine for flight, carrying a 200 kg (440-pound warhead) for precision strikes. Media reports estimate its range at more than 1,000 km (620 miles), with some estimates reaching 1,200–1,500 km (750–930 miles). Covenant aims to price it below $1 million per missile. Founded in 2024 by Michael Kaufman and Ofir Dayan, Covenant conducted Anthem’s first flight in August 2025. The missile has undergone more than 200 flight tests, including tests with US forces, but has not been used in combat. Denmark’s missiles will be produced at Covenant’s 10,000-square-metre facility in Leipzig, Germany, which opened in October 2026. Production is scheduled to begin in 2027, with targets of 1,000 missiles in the first year and 5,000 in 2028. More than 95% of components for the European version are expected to come from Europe. Basic assembly will take place in Leipzig, while warheads will be integrated at customer sites. The first Danish deliveries are expected after production begins. Joint Strike Missile for F-35 Fighters Denmark is also acquiring the Joint Strike Missile (JSM), developed by Kongsberg in cooperation with Raytheon. Designed to fit inside the internal weapons bays of Denmark’s F-35A fighters, the missile allows the aircraft to maintain its low-observable configuration. The JSM measures 4 metres, weighs 416 kg (917 pounds), carries a 120 kg (265-pound warhead) and has a range exceeding 350 km (217 miles). It travels at high-subsonic speeds and uses inertial and GPS navigation with an imaging-infrared seeker for autonomous target recognition. It is derived from Kongsberg’s Naval Strike Missile (NSM), already used by Denmark for coastal defence and on its frigates. Germany’s Interest and Russian Response Germany is discussing its long-range strike requirements with Covenant, although no purchase has been announced. The Bundeswehr is evaluating low-cost cruise missiles, with Anthem reportedly competing against Ukraine’s Flamingo cruise missile, developed by Fire Point. Covenant has appointed retired German Army Lieutenant General Andreas Marlow, a former deputy commander, as an adviser. Russian Ambassador to Denmark Vladimir Barbin criticised the acquisition, describing Danish policy as confrontational and focused on preparing for possible conflict with Russia. He also called it a dangerous illusion to believe such weapons could pose a military threat to a nuclear power. The procurement expands Denmark’s capabilities beyond its traditional focus on territorial defence, providing complementary land-based and air-launched options for long-range precision strikes while strengthening its contribution to NATO.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 15:04:35
World
OTTAWA, Canada, — European defence group Czechoslovak Group (CSG) and Canadian defence technology company North Vector Dynamics (NVD) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to explore European manufacturing and supply-chain opportunities for NVD products, including the integration of its CM-70 counter-drone interceptor into CSG defence systems. Announced on October 22, 2026, the agreement builds on CSG’s strategic investment in NVD, completed in August 2026, and marks a move towards industrial cooperation between the companies. CM-70 Counter-Drone Interceptor The CM-70 is a precision-guided missile interceptor designed to engage high-speed, highly manoeuvrable Group I–III uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). NVD positions it as a lower-cost option for countering drone threats faced by NATO members and partner countries. According to published specifications, the interceptor weighs approximately 3 kg, measures 0.9 metres in length, reaches speeds of 900 km/h and has an operational range of 3.5 km. It uses semi-active laser guidance and a forward-firing fragmentation warhead. Its open architecture is intended to support integration with existing layered air-defence systems. The CM-70 can be launched from ground, vehicle and airborne platforms. NVD states that the system is ITAR-free and compliant with the US National Defense Authorization Act. European Manufacturing and Integration Plans Under the MoU, CSG and NVD will evaluate options for European production, supply chains and integration of the CM-70 into CSG systems. However, the agreement does not commit either company to a manufacturing programme. The companies have not identified the specific CSG systems being considered for integration, a production site, manufacturing volumes or a delivery schedule. NVD will retain full ownership and control of its intellectual property, while design and engineering authority for its technology will remain in Canada. CSG is expected to contribute industrial capacity, systems-integration expertise and access to its commercial network across NATO countries, Ukraine and other partner nations. CSG, which employs more than 14,000 people, reported revenue of €6.7 billion in 2025. The group continues to expand its aerospace and defence business through partnerships and acquisitions. The MoU establishes a framework for the companies to assess European manufacturing and integration opportunities while keeping NVD’s intellectual property and engineering authority under Canadian control.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 14:55:17
World
ABU DHABI, UAE, — UAE-based defence conglomerate EDGE Group has achieved full-rate production at its subsidiary LAHAB’s automated 40x53mm grenade ammunition manufacturing line, which has an annual production capacity of up to 1.5 million rounds. Automated Production Line The line began operating at the end of 2025 and assembles sub-components into finished, belted rounds without manual intervention. The manufacturing process consists of three modules: cartridge case assembly and filling, projectile filling and assembly, and final assembly and belting. LAHAB Chief Executive Officer Mohammed Arbabi said advanced automation had reduced manual labour requirements by nearly 60%, improving efficiency, increasing annual output and providing a scalable foundation for 40mm grenade manufacturing. The facility follows Industry 4.0 standards, monitoring operations and recording production data across all three modules. Its real-time digital dashboard displays throughput, module performance and overall production status, allowing operators to identify and correct deviations while production continues. EDGE Expands Smart Manufacturing The upgrade is part of EDGE’s wider smart-manufacturing programme, coordinated by BRIDGE, the group’s function for innovation, operational excellence and industrialisation. In 2025, EDGE completed more than 68 Industry 4.0 transformation projects across 28 production facilities and doubled manufacturing capacity at 13 of its entities. Other EDGE companies have also introduced automation. HALCON’s upgraded DESERT STING 16 guided-glide weapon assembly line uses 11 industrial robots, more than 300 sensors and six machine-vision stations, alongside automated material handling and inspection. The upgrade increased production volume by 130% and reduced labour content by 23%. CARACAL, EDGE’s firearms and small-calibre ammunition manufacturer, introduced an automated storage and retrieval system that increased storage density by approximately 80% and made storage and retrieval operations three times faster, eliminating the need for a new warehouse. Strengthening Defence Manufacturing LAHAB, HALCON and CARACAL form part of EDGE’s integrated defence manufacturing network in the UAE. EDGE is working to extend its smart-manufacturing model to partner nations seeking to develop their own sovereign defence industrial bases. LAHAB develops, produces and tests medium- and large-calibre munitions designed to meet US-MIL SPEC, NATO and CIP standards. Its portfolio includes 40x53mm ammunition and other grenade, mortar and artillery products. The new line strengthens LAHAB’s 40mm ammunition production capacity while supporting EDGE’s broader move towards higher-volume, data-driven manufacturing.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-23 14:43:19
Europe
MADRID, — Spanish state-owned defence shipbuilder Navantia has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with San Sebastián-based software company Multiverse Computing to develop, test and deploy artificial intelligence (AI) and quantum-inspired technologies for naval defence systems. The agreement brings together Navantia’s expertise in naval architecture, defence platforms and systems integration with Multiverse Computing’s capabilities in AI optimisation. The partnership will focus on adapting AI models for use aboard surface ships and submarines, including environments with limited computing resources, power and connectivity. The agreement was signed by Gonzalo Mateo-Guerrero, Navantia’s Chief Operating Officer, and Enrique Lizaso, co-founder and CEO of Multiverse Computing. AI Applications for Ships and Submarines The companies will explore AI applications for embedded systems aboard naval vessels and submarines, signal processing, situational awareness, mission planning and logistics optimisation. The partnership will also examine applications in Command, Control, Communications and Intelligence (C4I) systems. A central part of the collaboration is Multiverse Computing’s CompactifAI technology, which compresses AI models to reduce their size and the computing resources required to run them. This could help naval systems use advanced AI where processing capacity, electrical power or network connectivity is limited. The technology is also intended to support independent onboard operation without continuous internet access or reliance on external cloud services, an important consideration for naval platforms operating in isolated environments. Navantia will contribute operational requirements, product knowledge, systems integration expertise and lifecycle support. This will help the companies assess how AI models can be moved from laboratory testing into practical naval products and maintained throughout their service life. Companies Target European Defence Programmes Navantia said the agreement would help incorporate AI into its products and accelerate the development of more efficient and advanced naval solutions. Mateo-Guerrero said the partnership would make it possible to apply artificial intelligence to Navantia’s products and accelerate their evolution towards more efficient and advanced naval solutions. Lizaso highlighted the challenge of integrating AI into military systems, explaining that the main difficulty is moving beyond laboratory demonstrations to capabilities that naval systems can sustain throughout their entire lifecycle. For Navantia, which is wholly owned by Spain’s state holding company SEPI, the partnership supports its broader efforts to expand AI across its portfolio, strengthen domestic industrial capabilities and technological sovereignty. For Multiverse Computing, the collaboration provides an opportunity to test its AI compression and quantum-inspired optimisation technologies against the operational and lifecycle requirements of naval defence programmes. The two companies also plan to assess joint proposals for European defence and innovation programmes, extending their cooperation beyond technology development and testing.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 16:39:35
World
ABU DHABI, — France and the United Arab Emirates have signed an intergovernmental agreement to renew cooperation on the Rafale F5 fighter programme, during French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to the UAE on October 20. UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and President Macron witnessed the exchange of documents. The two countries also signed a strategic defence partnership framework and an industrial cooperation agreement covering future combat aviation, technical and financial arrangements, and defence industry cooperation. The renewed framework establishes a basis for cooperation on the Rafale F5 standard and aims to strengthen interoperability between the two countries’ armed forces. It does not announce a new aircraft order or specify the number of aircraft involved. Funding and Technology Dispute The agreement follows a breakdown in earlier negotiations over financing and access to sensitive French defence technologies. The Rafale F5 programme’s development cost is estimated at around €5 billion, and the UAE had previously been prepared to contribute up to €3.5 billion. Talks reportedly stalled after Abu Dhabi sought access to advanced optronics technology for its domestic defence industry, including the EDGE Group. France resisted sharing the sensitive technological know-how, citing its control over critical defence technologies. The newly signed agreements bring the UAE back into formal cooperation on the programme, but the financial arrangements remain undisclosed. Officials have not confirmed whether the earlier €3.5 billion contribution has been reinstated or whether France has agreed to share the disputed technologies. No detailed funding figures or payment schedules have been publicly released. Rafale F5 Development and Broader Defence Cooperation The Rafale F5 is the next major upgrade of the French-made fighter aircraft. The programme is intended to improve electronic warfare capabilities, integrate the aircraft with stealth unmanned combat drones and incorporate artificial intelligence. Qualification is expected around 2033. The new agreement builds on the UAE’s existing Rafale programme. In December 2021, the country ordered 80 Rafale F4 aircraft under a deal valued at approximately €16.6 billion. The wider package also included helicopters, weapons, training and support, while initial Rafale deliveries were expected by the end of 2026. During Macron’s visit, he also toured facilities linked to the UAE’s EDGE Group, which operates in areas including weapons systems, unmanned technologies, electronic warfare and cyber defence and has industrial ties with French companies. The agreements form part of broader France-UAE discussions covering defence, energy, artificial intelligence and advanced technologies. The renewed Rafale F5 framework provides a basis for further technical, industrial and potential financial cooperation, although the details of funding and technology sharing remain unconfirmed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 16:30:49
Space & Technology
HANGZHOU, — Chinese robotics company Unitree Robotics has introduced the H2-X “Kung Fu Legend: Guardian”, a humanoid robot designed for potential security, patrol, personal protection and emergency rescue applications. Based on the company’s existing H2 platform, the robot was showcased in a promotional video released on October 21, 2026, and shared on X and YouTube. The video shows the H2-X climbing onto a car, performing flips, and delivering punches, knees and kicks that dent vehicle panels and break glass. It also jumps from a platform marked approximately four metres high, lands, rolls and returns to its feet before performing aerial kicks and backflips. Unitree stated that the footage is real and has not been sped up. The demonstration includes staged protection and rescue scenarios in which the robot steps between a person and a simulated armed attacker, pushes a person or dummy away from an approaching vehicle, and lifts the front of a car to free a dummy trapped underneath. However, observers noted that the car appeared to be partially supported from outside the camera’s view during the lifting demonstration. Unitree has not clarified how much of the demonstration was autonomous, remotely controlled or pre-programmed. Unitree unveils H2-X 'Kung Fu Legend: Guardian' — a bodyguard robot https://t.co/Rl32N5fKFG — RT (@RT_com) October 22, 2026 Technical Specifications The H2-X shares the standard H2 platform’s reported dimensions of 182 centimetres in height and approximately 70 kilograms in weight with its battery. It has 31 degrees of freedom: six in each leg, seven in each arm, three in the waist and two in the head. Its leg joints deliver up to 360 N·m of torque, while its arm joints provide up to 120 N·m. The H2 platform’s arm payload is approximately seven kilograms, with a peak capacity of around 15 kilograms. Its structure uses aircraft-grade aluminium, titanium alloy and high-strength engineering plastics. For perception and communication, the robot features a wide-field binocular camera, an array microphone and a high-power speaker. Higher-configuration H2 models support onboard computing of up to 2,070 TOPS using an Nvidia Jetson AGX Thor module. Connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2. Battery Life, Price and Availability Unitree claims the H2-X offers approximately eight hours of operating time, compared with around three hours for the standard H2. However, the company has not specified the testing conditions or workload behind the eight-hour figure, which should not be interpreted as continuous operation during walking, fighting or heavy lifting. The standard H2 uses a 15 Ah (0.972 kWh) quick-release battery. The standard H2 has been listed at approximately $29,900, but Unitree has not announced a separate price, release date or commercial availability for the H2-X. The company has advised users to operate the robot safely and reports indicate guidance to maintain a distance of approximately two to three metres during operation. Commercial Applications Remain Unconfirmed Unitree, based in Hangzhou, China, is known for its quadruped and humanoid robots. Its full-size, bipedal H2 platform was introduced in 2025. The H2-X demonstration has attracted online discussion, including on Chinese social media platform Weibo, particularly regarding its physical capabilities and simulated rescue operations. However, no independent third-party testing of the H2-X’s performance, sustained-operation endurance or autonomy has been reported alongside the announcement. Unitree has not confirmed whether the robot will become available for commercial security deployment. Its demonstrated movements and staged scenarios therefore do not yet establish its effectiveness in real-world security or rescue operations.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 16:26:53
U.S
WASHINGTON, D.C., — U.S.-Norwegian defence company Heaviside Industries has unveiled its TYR loitering munition at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting and Exposition in Washington, D.C. The lightweight, fixed-wing system weighs just over five pounds (2.3 kilograms) and is designed to strike targets at ranges exceeding 25 miles (40 kilometres). According to the company, TYR can reach speeds exceeding 150 mph (241 km/h) and remain airborne for more than 60 minutes. The complete system weighs approximately 15 pounds (6.8 kilograms), making it suitable for transport by individual soldiers. Its detachable wings help with backpack transport, while its low acoustic and visual signature is intended to reduce detection. GPS-Denied Operations and Mission Capabilities TYR is designed to operate in GPS-denied environments and contested communications conditions. It uses proprietary dual-band radios and computer vision for navigation and targeting. The system also features electro-optical and thermal cameras to support target identification. According to Heaviside, the munition can search designated areas for recognisable targets and request operator confirmation before an attack. The final engagement decision remains with a human operator. If communication is lost, the system has several programmed options: abort the attack, continue the mission, land in a designated safe area or destroy itself. The company says TYR can support ground and base defence, counter-drone missions and integration with larger unmanned systems. It is designed for precision strikes against armoured vehicles, fortified structures and other targets. Four Warhead Options from Nammo TYR uses four interchangeable warhead options supplied by Norwegian defence company Nammo: a shaped-charge anti-tank warhead, an anti-structure munition, an explosively formed penetrator (EFP) and an anti-personnel fragmentation warhead. The anti-tank variant is intended to engage armoured vehicles, including main battle tanks. The different warhead options allow the system to be configured for different mission requirements. Heaviside and Nammo announced a strategic partnership in August 2026 to develop multi-domain precision munitions, with TYR serving as the first platform under the collaboration. Testing, Contracts and Production Heaviside CEO Phillip Walker said TYR combines size, weight and performance to engage armoured and fortified targets while allowing troops to maintain greater standoff distance from threats. The company said TYR has completed live-fire testing and is under contract with U.S. Department of Defense customers. Specific order quantities and delivery schedules have not been disclosed. Heaviside also announced a $60 million Series B funding round in August 2026, valuing the company at $600 million. The funding is intended to support production capacity and expansion of its U.S. operations. The company, founded in 2024 and headquartered in Los Angeles, conducts engineering and testing activities in Norway in cooperation with Nammo.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 16:17:48
World
KYIV, — Ukraine’s Defence Intelligence Directorate (GUR) has released technical details of Russia’s new Filin (Owl) ground-launched cruise missile, which Russian forces reportedly began using against Ukraine in late summer 2026. On October 22, GUR published an interactive 3D model, technical specifications, a list of components and an electronic parts database for the missile on its War&Sanctions portal. The information provides details about the weapon’s design, propulsion, navigation and use of foreign-made electronic components. The Filin was developed by JSC NPO Molniya, part of Russia’s Tactical Missiles Corporation (KTRV). The company is distinct from the separate Russian drone manufacturer with a similar name. Range, Speed and Warhead Options According to the Ukrainian intelligence data, the Filin has a reported maximum range of 1,200 kilometres and a maximum speed of 800 km/h. Its reported range is also given as 600–1,200 kilometres. The missile is launched from a ground-based platform using a solid-propellant booster before its turbojet engine takes over. It can fly at very low altitudes to reduce exposure to radar detection or climb to heights of up to 6,000 metres. The weapon has a maximum takeoff weight of approximately 210 kilograms and can carry either a 50-kilogram or 100-kilogram warhead. Reported warhead options include high-explosive fragmentation, penetrating and thermobaric types. Composite Construction and Manufacturing The Filin measures 3.5 metres in length and has a 3-metre wingspan. Its elongated fuselage is made from composite materials, including carbon fibre and fibreglass. Some structural components are manufactured using 3D-printing technology, which can simplify the production of selected parts. The design reflects Russia’s continued development of relatively inexpensive, jet-powered weapons for ground-launched strikes. Engine, Navigation and Electronic Components The missile is powered by the R500 turbojet engine, manufactured by Russia’s Reynolds LLC. The same engine type has also been identified in the Russian S-71K Kover and S-71M Monokhrom cruise missiles. Its onboard electronic equipment is produced by PLAZ LLC, a company also involved in manufacturing Garpiya (Harpy) drones. Ukrainian intelligence has reported similarities in the layout and markings of Filin and Garpiya systems. For navigation, the missile uses a Chinese-made inertial navigation system combined with a 16-channel Kometa (Comet) anti-jamming antenna system designed to help maintain navigation under electronic warfare interference. Analysis of the examined electronics identified 35 US-made components and 22 Chinese-made components, according to GUR. The findings indicate that the missile incorporates foreign microelectronics alongside Russian-manufactured propulsion and other equipment. Part of Russia’s Expanding Strike Arsenal The Filin joins a growing group of relatively low-cost Russian ground-launched strike weapons, including the Banderol (Bandera), Dan-T, Dan-M and Geran-5, also referred to in some reporting as Gerbera-5. The system combines composite construction, selected 3D-printed components and commercially sourced or foreign-made electronics. These features are consistent with Russia’s wider effort to expand its range of strike weapons. The performance figures and component details cited in the report are based on information released by Ukrainian intelligence and, where indicated, Russian claims. The missile’s reported range and speed have not been independently verified in the released materials.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 15:56:57
Europe
LONDON, — British technology company Voyant has demonstrated its navigation software to the UK Ministry of Defence (MOD), showing how autonomous maritime vessels can navigate without relying on satellite signals such as GPS. The trial took place on October 5, 2026, aboard a Kraken K3 Scout autonomous surface vessel in the coastal waters of the Solent, off southern England. The demonstration is part of a wider MOD programme to develop resilient Position, Navigation and Timing (PNT) capabilities for military operations in environments where satellite signals are disrupted or unavailable. How the Technology Works Voyant’s software uses sensor fusion and probabilistic particle filter algorithms to compare real-time radar imagery with pre-loaded reference maps of surrounding terrain. By matching radar observations with known geographic features, the system estimates the vessel’s position without relying on Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSS). It also provides a real-time estimate of positioning uncertainty, helping operators assess the reliability of location data. The software is designed to work with existing sensors, avoiding the need for additional hardware. The technology could allow uncrewed vessels to continue missions and return safely when satellite navigation is lost or deliberately disrupted through jamming or spoofing. Importance for Maritime Defence Military ships, aircraft, missiles and drones rely on GNSS for positioning, navigation and timing. However, satellite signals can be disrupted by electronic interference. Coastal terrain and dense infrastructure can also reduce reception, making alternative navigation methods particularly important in littoral environments. The demonstration comes amid concerns about GNSS interference affecting military and commercial shipping, including in the Baltic Sea, Black Sea and Middle East. The UK Maritime and Coastguard Agency has also issued guidance on operating in GNSS-denied and degraded environments. Voyant and Kraken K3 Scout James Norwood, CEO of Voyant, said reliable navigation remained fundamental to maritime operations as access to GNSS could no longer be assumed. He said the demonstration with Kraken and the MOD showed a practical capability to support the safe and effective deployment of autonomous maritime systems in challenging conditions. Norwood added that the trial represented another milestone in the UK’s investment in sovereign technologies to strengthen resilience, improve operational freedom and support future autonomous defence capabilities. Voyant, a University of Liverpool spin-out, develops sensor-fusion and tracking software. The Kraken K3 Scout, built by British company Kraken Technology, is an 8.5-metre uncrewed surface vessel capable of speeds approaching 55 knots. The successful trial demonstrates the potential of radar-based navigation when satellite signals are unavailable. However, it does not by itself confirm that the technology has entered operational military service.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 15:49:45
World
TEHRAN, — Iran’s Army has showcased an upgraded version of its Arash one-way attack drone in footage released from an underground drone production facility. The video was shown during a visit by Iranian Army Commander-in-Chief Major General Amir Hatami, highlighting Iran’s expanding drone manufacturing infrastructure and efforts to improve payload capacity, navigation and targeting. The latest variant, referred to in some reports as the Arash-3, features a warhead weighing 100 kilograms, compared with 50 kilograms on the previous version. According to an Army drone expert featured in the video, upgrades to the warhead’s incendiary and high-explosive materials, together with other changes, increase its reported damage potential by approximately 2.3 times. Arash-3 Features and Technical Upgrades The upgraded drone incorporates improvements to its navigation systems, including greater numbers and a wider variety of systems designed to operate without GPS. These changes are intended to help the drone navigate in heavily jammed environments using internal controls and available satellite navigation. The platform also features artificial intelligence-assisted precision targeting. A jet-engine-powered variant has also been reported as part of the programme. Open-source information cited in reports gives the Arash family a potential range of up to 2,000 kilometres and speeds of approximately 600 km/h, although these figures have not been independently verified for the latest variant. The Arash-3 is part of a wider family of Iranian unmanned aerial vehicles developed for different operational requirements. Iran Expands Drone Production During the visit, Hatami said Iran’s military equipment production had not declined during recent conflicts and that manufacturing facilities had been expanded. “Our production has not decreased during the war. We have expanded our production facilities and now have substantial reserves,” Hatami stated. He also referred to an agreement to strengthen the Army’s drone capabilities, signed in cooperation with the late Major General Mousavi during Hatami’s earlier tenure as defence minister. The programme now involves scientific researchers, universities, technical institutions, specialists and knowledge-based companies. Iranian military sources said drone stockpiles had increased in scale, variety and technological sophistication compared with the period before the Ramadan war. Production of drones and smaller unmanned aerial vehicles reportedly continues around the clock with the participation of young Iranian specialists. The released footage also included material that Iranian sources said had been recorded earlier or prepared for public presentation. The clips did not disclose sensitive current production locations. Arash-2 Operational History and Future Plans The previous-generation Arash-2 has been used by the Iranian Army, also known as Artesh, in attacks against US bases in Kuwait, Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates and Qatar, as well as during Operations True Promise and Thunderbolt. Iran continues to use unmanned systems for border monitoring and surveillance, including in airspace east of the Strait of Hormuz and over the Gulf of Oman. Hatami said drones, unmanned surface vessels and micro air vehicles have become important components of Iran’s defence doctrine, particularly for asymmetric warfare. The Army is involved in their production, distribution, maintenance and operational training. Iranian military sources describe the country as one of the world’s four leading drone powers, citing its expanding production capacity and increasingly diverse systems. The Army is also preparing another drone system, with its official name and specifications expected to be announced in the near future.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 15:38:05
U.S
WASHINGTON, — The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has tested a space-based cargo delivery concept using SpaceX’s Starfall reentry capsule, as the U.S. military explores ways to transport supplies across the world within hours using commercial rockets. The test took place on October 20, 2026, as part of SpaceX’s Bandwagon-5 commercial rideshare mission. A Falcon 9 rocket carrying 32 payloads launched at 7:04 a.m. EDT from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. AFRL placed military supplies inside a specially designed cargo pod, known as an “agile pod,” within the uncrewed Starfall capsule. Sensors recorded temperature, shock and vibration during launch, spaceflight and atmospheric reentry to help researchers assess how military equipment withstands the journey. The cargo included Meals, Ready-to-Eat (MREs), water bottles, a reverse-osmosis water desalinator, communications equipment, a satellite-enabled tracker, batteries and emergency medical kits. Engineers also checked whether a UNI-PAC III life raft could fit inside the capsule for potential delivery to stranded sailors or downed aircrew. AFRL’s Rocket Cargo Programme The test is part of AFRL’s Rocket Cargo programme, which examines whether commercial rockets can transport military supplies to locations around the world on tactical timelines. The long-term goal is to deliver cargo comparable in size to a C-17 transport aircraft’s load, amounting to tens of tons, to locations without runways or roads in approximately 90 minutes. Brig. Gen. Douglas P. Wickert, the Department of the Air Force Technology Executive Officer and AFRL commander, said the test demonstrated how the laboratory is working with industry to reduce technical risks, collect data and develop technologies for operational forces. Adam Remaly, director of AFRL’s Technology Transition Office, described the flight as a critical achievement in demonstrating the potential of rocket-based delivery for rapid global mobility. Starfall Capsule Specifications SpaceX’s Starfall is an uncrewed, disk-shaped reentry capsule designed to return cargo from space to Earth. It measures approximately 10.2 feet (3.1 metres) across and 2.5 feet tall, weighs around 4,600 pounds (2,100 kilograms) when empty, and can return up to 2,200 pounds (1,000 kilograms) of payload under parachutes. Recovery operations are planned in the Pacific Ocean. The October 20 mission marked Starfall’s second flight, following its first demonstration in June 2026. Although its current payload capacity is limited compared with large military transport aircraft, AFRL views the capsule as a step towards developing faster cargo delivery methods. Potential applications include resupplying forces in contested areas, supporting expeditionary operations, delivering rescue equipment to stranded personnel, providing disaster relief and responding to chemical, biological, radiological or nuclear incidents. Commercial Partnerships and Next Steps AFRL is working with several aerospace companies to assess rocket-based logistics, including SpaceX, Blue Origin, Rocket Lab, Sierra Space, Anduril, Inversion Space, Varda Space Industries and Outpost Space. In June 2026, AFRL awarded Colorado-based Geneva Technologies a $4.3 million contract for architecture studies, system design and demonstrations under the Rocket Experimentation for Global Agile Logistics effort. In August, the laboratory expanded Blue Origin’s study contract to approximately $13 million. Researchers will analyse the environmental data collected during the Starfall flight to determine how electronics, communications equipment and survival supplies withstand launch, spaceflight and atmospheric reentry. AFRL also plans further tests involving commercial rockets and reentry capsules to assess the feasibility of rapid global cargo delivery. The programme is intended to determine whether commercial rocket services can complement existing military transport by delivering supplies quickly to locations that are difficult to reach by conventional aircraft or ground transport.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 15:33:31Search
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