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 15:33:31
U.S
WASHINGTON — General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) has introduced PERCH 2.0, an upgraded system developed with AeroVironment that allows M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 tanks and Stryker armoured vehicles to launch Switchblade 300 loitering munitions directly from their platforms. PERCH stands for Precision Effects & Reconnaissance, Canister-Housed. It provides beyond-line-of-sight reconnaissance and strike capabilities, allowing crews to locate and engage targets behind buildings, hills and tree lines while remaining protected inside their vehicles. The upgraded system was showcased ahead of the Association of the U.S. Army (AUSA) exhibition. Four PERCH 2.0 prototypes are scheduled for delivery to the U.S. Army’s 1st Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division, at Fort Hood, Texas, by the end of October 2026 for further testing. PERCH 2.0 💥 Our Precision Effects & Reconnaissance, Canister-Housed technology, created in partnership with AV, has been upgraded for 2026. The PERCH common modular kit integrates onto M1A2 Abrams SEPv3 tanks and Stryker vehicles to provide beyond line of sight (BLOS) surveillance and over-the-horizon lethality via AeroVironment Switchblade SB300 loitering munitions. #ThePowerToWin — General Dynamics Land Systems (@GD_LandSystems) October 21, 2026 Design and Upgrades PERCH uses a modular, bolt-on design that requires no cutting or welding of vehicle armour. On the Abrams, it replaces the loader’s sponson box, a storage compartment on the side of the turret, and attaches to existing mounting points. The 2026 version focuses on the smaller Switchblade 300, unlike the original system, which supported both the Switchblade 300 and the larger Switchblade 600, designed for anti-armour missions. The original canister could hold one Switchblade 600 and three Switchblade 300s. Based on Army feedback, PERCH 2.0 includes easier reloading, increased storage space, improved beyond-line-of-sight technology and the ability to launch without opening vehicle hatches. The current version operates independently, while future versions are intended to connect directly to onboard vehicle computer systems. The Army purchased three prototypes under the Abrams System Technical Support contract, with the additions made in August 2026. GDLS funded development of the original system and the first PERCH 2.0 prototype through internal research and development. Field Testing and Switchblade Capabilities GDLS and AeroVironment first unveiled PERCH at the AUSA exhibition in October 2025. The original system was subsequently tested during the U.S. Army’s Machine Assisted Rugged Sapper (MARS) event at Fort Hood from October 26 to 30, 2025. During the exercise, soldiers launched Switchblade 300 and Switchblade 600 munitions from an Abrams tank to provide forward reconnaissance and target high-value objectives while ground forces conducted a complex obstacle breach. The Switchblade 300 is a tube-launched loitering munition that provides real-time video, can attack targets and can abort and recommit when required. Recent Block 20 configurations offer more than 20 minutes of endurance. The United States began supplying Switchblade munitions to Ukraine in 2022, and the U.S. Army has also ordered them for its own units. PERCH allows armoured crews to deploy the weapons directly from their vehicles instead of relying on dismounted soldiers to launch them. Future Applications GDLS has identified the Light Armored Vehicle (LAV) and the British Army’s Ajax as potential platforms for adapting PERCH. The U.S. Army is also exploring loitering-munition integration on next-generation armoured vehicles. Both GDLS’s Wolf and American Rheinmetall’s Lynx, the two contenders in the Army’s XM30 programme to replace the Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle, offer options for mounting similar drone systems. The planned prototype testing will help the Army evaluate PERCH 2.0’s integration with Abrams tanks and its ability to extend reconnaissance and engagement capabilities while keeping crews protected inside their vehicles.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 15:23:40
U.S
ATHENS — MSI Defense Solutions has completed the integration of Leonardo LIONFISH 20 remote weapon systems onto former US Coast Guard Island-class patrol cutters being transferred to the Hellenic Navy under the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme. The project, administered by the US Coast Guard, upgrades the vessels with modern naval gun systems before their delivery and operational use. The work included structural reinforcement, modifications to turret mounting points, supporting electronics and upgrades to the vessels’ command and control (C2) stations. MSI also conducted engineering assessments and testing to verify the systems’ compatibility, safety and operational readiness. LIONFISH 20 Weapon System Capabilities The Leonardo LIONFISH 20 is a remotely operated, fully stabilised 20mm naval weapon system designed for accurate engagement without requiring deck penetration. Its gun has an effective range exceeding 2,000 metres and a burst firing rate of up to 1,000 rounds per minute. The system also supports a controlled firing rate of 100 to 300 rounds per minute and can carry up to 250 ready-to-fire rounds. The weapon uses standard 20 × 128mm NATO ammunition and weighs approximately 450kg without ammunition. Its coaxial sensor suite includes a daylight camera capable of detecting targets at up to 9.5 kilometres, an infrared sensor with a stated range of up to 12 kilometres, and a laser rangefinder. A remote-control console allows the crew to conduct surveillance, identify targets and operate the weapon from a protected position inside the vessel. The system is stabilised on two independent axes to support aiming in maritime conditions. Engineering and Testing Integrating the modern weapon stations onto older Island-class cutters required modifications to existing ship structures and systems. MSI carried out structural load analysis, recoil-force assessments, sea-state modelling and vessel stability calculations to account for the weapons’ weight and operational effects. The company also prepared and conducted installation, integration and testing activities outside the continental United States (OCONUS) to verify system performance and confirm the vessels’ readiness before delivery. Nguyen Trinh, CEO and president of MSI Defense Solutions, said the project builds on the company’s maritime integration work, which began in 2021. He highlighted the technical challenges of installing stabilised remote weapon systems within the structural and spatial limitations of transferred vessels. MSI has supported FMS programmes involving the modernisation of surplus US government maritime assets before their transfer to allied navies. Its work includes remote weapon station integration, ammunition storage, electrical upgrades, structural reinforcement and command-and-control system improvements. Four Cutters Modernised for the Hellenic Navy Four Island-class patrol cutters were transferred from the US Coast Guard to Greece through the Excess Defense Articles (EDA) programme. They arrived in Greece in 2023 and underwent refit and upgrades at Salamis Shipyards before being commissioned into the Hellenic Navy on 20 January 2025. The vessels were renamed HS Mantouvalos Ioannis (P 197), HS Galanis Georgios (P 198), HS Liaskos Antonios (P 288) and HS Gialopsos Ektoras (P 289). The LIONFISH 20 is installed as their main bow armament. The Island-class cutters measure approximately 33.5 metres in length, have a top speed of around 29 knots and a range of approximately 1,600 nautical miles at 10 knots. They support coastal patrol missions for the Hellenic Navy, with the new weapon systems providing an upgraded capability against surface threats in coastal waters. A US Coast Guard contract awarded to MSI Defense Solutions in December 2023, valued at approximately $9.6 million, covered the purchase and installation of the 20mm weapon systems for the Greek-bound cutters. The systems were manufactured in Italy, and the contract period was subsequently extended. Greece is the first user of the LIONFISH 20 system. The weapon is also installed as a secondary armament on the Hellenic Navy’s new FDI HN frigates, with two mounts per ship. The completed integration gives the transferred patrol vessels an updated remotely operated gun capability while extending MSI Defense Solutions’ work on modernising legacy naval platforms for allied countries.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 15:14:01
Europe
SAINT-GERMAIN-EN-LAYE, France, — French technology company Exail has secured a major contract to supply its military-grade Marins inertial navigation systems (INS) for the entire fleet of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) operated by an unnamed navy. Valued at tens of millions of euros, the contract ranks among the largest navigation system orders received by Exail and strengthens its position in the growing market for autonomous naval platforms. The customer has not been publicly identified. Navigation Without Satellite Signals Uncrewed surface vessels operate without onboard crews and depend on reliable navigation data to complete missions. Navies are increasingly deploying these platforms to extend operational reach, maintain a presence at sea and reduce the exposure of personnel to danger. However, navigation becomes more challenging in contested waters, where Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals, including GPS, can be degraded, jammed or spoofed. Exail’s Marins systems use fiber-optic gyroscope (FOG) technology to provide accurate position, heading, attitude and velocity data. The inertial navigation systems help vessels maintain navigation information when satellite signals are unavailable or disrupted, supporting autonomous operations. Jean-Marc Binois, Exail’s chief commercial officer, said navies are moving towards fleets in which crewed and uncrewed vessels operate alongside one another. He added that deploying USVs at scale requires reliable navigation technology that meets demanding defence requirements, alongside experience in designing and integrating autonomous maritime systems. Established Naval Navigation Technology Exail’s Marins navigation systems are already used on surface ships and submarines operated by more than 50 navies worldwide. The company also supplies navigation technology for nearly 80% of the global autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) and remotely operated vehicle (ROV) market, according to the provided company information. These underwater platforms operate in environments where satellite navigation signals cannot reach, making inertial navigation technology important for maintaining position and movement data. The latest contract extends Exail’s established naval navigation expertise to an entire fleet of uncrewed surface vessels. Exail Expands Its Naval Robotics Business The contract follows other developments in Exail’s defence robotics business during October 2026. Earlier in the month, the company’s DriX surface drones were lined up for evaluations by the US Navy and US Coast Guard. Exail has also begun production of a major unmanned mine countermeasures package for the Indonesian Navy. As navies integrate uncrewed vessels alongside conventional warships, reliable navigation systems are becoming an important requirement for autonomous maritime operations. The new order strengthens Exail’s role in supplying navigation technology for naval platforms operating in environments where satellite signals may be unreliable or unavailable.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 15:08:05
U.S
WASHINGTON, — Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Department of Defense have reached a preliminary 10-year framework agreement to support the production of at least 850 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, alongside spare parts, aircraft modifications and sustainment support for the global fleet. The proposed arrangement covers production Lots 21 through 30 and includes aircraft for U.S. forces and international customers. Lockheed Martin plans to maintain an annual production rate of 156 aircraft under the framework and has committed to investing at least $7 billion of its own funds to support the programme. The agreement aims to reduce production costs, address supply-chain bottlenecks and provide manufacturers and suppliers with greater visibility into future demand. Longer-term planning is expected to help expand production capacity, improve efficiency and strengthen the industrial base supporting the F-35 programme. Pentagon Links Funding to Production Performance Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael P. Duffey said the agreement reflects a change in how the department supports the defence industrial base. “We have fundamentally changed how we stabilize the American defense industrial base to produce at speed and scale,” Duffey said. He added that linking financial incentives to actual performance would help ensure U.S. forces receive the capabilities they need. Lockheed Martin Chairman, President and CEO Jim Taiclet said greater certainty from the government's approach would allow the company to make upfront investments in production capacity, efficiency and supply-chain resilience. The framework also covers initial spare parts, 10 years of modification kits and ongoing sustainment support. By combining aircraft production with longer-term support requirements, the arrangement aims to improve planning for both deliveries and fleet readiness. Congressional Approval Still Required The 10-year framework is not a final procurement contract or a firm order. Its implementation depends on congressional authorisation for multiyear contracting and the necessary funding appropriations. If Congress grants the required authority in the coming months, the F-35 Joint Program Office and Lockheed Martin will finalise the contract terms, pricing and delivery schedules before a formal award. The previous production agreement, covering Lots 18 and 19 for 296 aircraft, was finalised in September 2025 at a combined value of $24.3 billion. F-35 Fleet and Economic Impact More than 1,375 F-35 aircraft are currently fielded worldwide. The aircraft is a central part of Lockheed Martin's aeronautics business and serves U.S. and international operators. Lockheed Martin estimates that the proposed 10-year arrangement could support approximately 317,000 U.S. jobs and generate nearly $79 billion in annual economic activity. The company has identified these figures as internal projections rather than guaranteed outcomes. The framework is intended to provide greater long-term certainty for Lockheed Martin and its suppliers while supporting U.S. and allied requirements for F-35 production, modifications and sustainment.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 15:02:22
Europe
PARIS — France has ordered four additional SAMP/T NG (New Generation) air and missile defence firing units, bringing its planned fleet to 12 systems for the French Air and Space Force. The first system was delivered in early 2026, while 10 additional units are scheduled for delivery before the end of 2030, according to the French defence procurement agency, the Direction générale de l’Armement (DGA). The contract was placed through the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR) with Eurosam, a consortium comprising MBDA France, MBDA Italy and Thales. France’s configuration will combine long-range Aster missiles with shorter-range MICA VL interceptors to provide layered air defence. Upgraded Radar and Missile Interception SAMP/T NG is the successor to the Franco-Italian SAMP/T system, known as Mamba in French service. Development began in 2021 to improve protection against faster, more manoeuvrable and stealthier threats. The system incorporates Thales’ Ground Fire 300 (GF300) radar and a new-generation fire-control system designed to operate with the Aster 30 Block 1 NT (B1NT) missile. According to the DGA, the system paired with the Aster B1NT is designed to intercept both ballistic and hypersonic threats travelling at speeds exceeding Mach 5. SAMP/T NG provides 360-degree coverage and can engage multiple targets, including aircraft, drones, cruise missiles and manoeuvring ballistic missiles. Its layered configuration combines Aster 30 B1 and Aster B1NT missiles with MICA VL and other short-range air defence assets. The system is designed to engage targets at distances exceeding 150 kilometres, depending on the missile and engagement conditions. It can integrate into national air defence networks and operate with NATO and coalition systems while coordinating with friendly military aircraft, including in civilian airspace. Mobile Launchers and Aster B1NT Upgrades A standard SAMP/T NG firing unit can become operational in less than 30 minutes. It includes an engagement module and a multifunction radar with an identification friend-or-foe (IFF) capability. Eurosam states that the radar can detect and identify targets beyond 350 kilometres. Each unit can have up to six launchers, each carrying eight Aster missiles, providing a maximum of 48 ready-to-fire missiles. The Aster B1NT features updated electronics, improved interception algorithms and a Ka-band seeker. These upgrades are intended to improve performance against complex threats, including short- and medium-range ballistic missiles, as well as support interception of hypersonic threats. European Orders and Export Interest Italy has ordered 10 SAMP/T NG firing units, while Denmark has ordered four and is expected to begin receiving them in 2028. Ukraine is also expected to receive systems to strengthen its air defence capabilities. Switzerland, Belgium and Turkey have been reported as discussing or evaluating the system, but these discussions do not constitute confirmed orders. Eurosam, which has more than 35 years of experience developing Aster-based air defence systems, is continuing the programme with its French and Italian industrial partners. France’s additional order strengthens its planned air defence fleet and supports the wider European effort to counter aircraft, cruise missiles and advanced ballistic missile threats.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-22 14:59:03
World
EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Florida, — BAE Systems and SURVICE Engineering have successfully demonstrated a counter-drone capability using a modified TRV-150 uncrewed aircraft, which intercepted multiple one-way attack drones during US military trials in late September at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Conducted during the US Office of the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering's Mission Capabilities Joint Readiness Experimentation exercise, the trial used a production-ready three-pod launcher to fire 70 mm laser-guided Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) rockets at successive aerial targets in a single flight without landing or reloading. The demonstration showed how a cargo drone could be adapted into a potentially cost-effective counter-drone platform. TRV-150 and APKWS Integration The TRV-150 is a modified version of the British-built T-150, developed by BAE Systems subsidiary Malloy Aeronautics. Maryland-based SURVICE Engineering adapted the aircraft to meet US Army requirements, while BAE Systems' FalconWorks division developed and integrated the APKWS modification kit. The multi-rotor, electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft has a payload capacity of up to 150 pounds (68 kilograms). APKWS converts standard unguided 70 mm rockets into precision-guided munitions using a laser-guidance kit. The system is already used on platforms including the F-16 and F-18 fighter aircraft and the Apache helicopter, providing a lower-cost option for engaging selected aerial and ground targets compared with higher-end munitions. Previous Tests and Company Statements The latest trial builds on a July 2025 test at the US Army's Dugway Proving Ground in Utah, where an adapted T-150 fired a precision munition and engaged air and ground targets with no misses. That demonstration marked the first air-to-air engagement of an APKWS guidance kit from an uncrewed air system. In May 2026, a further test at Fort Rucker, Alabama, evaluated the three-shot launcher and the aircraft's flight-control response during firing. Thomas Lancashire, head of UAS Business Development at BAE Systems' FalconWorks division, said the companies had moved quickly from concept to a system capable of engaging multiple targets in one mission. He added that delivering effective military capabilities quickly was as important as the technology itself. Gregory Thompson, president of SURVICE Engineering, said supporting military personnel had been central to the company's mission for more than 45 years. He described integrating APKWS onto the TRV-150 as an example of its focus on precise and cost-effective military solutions. Future Maritime Applications The TRV-150 is already used for tactical logistics and resupply by UK armed forces, the US Marine Corps and the US Army. In 2025, it transported supplies between ships during the Royal Navy Carrier Strike Group's eight-month Indo-Pacific deployment. Following the successful trials, BAE Systems and SURVICE Engineering plan to extend the aircraft's counter-drone capability to maritime environments, with the aim of helping protect naval assets and other customers against similar aerial threats at sea.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-21 16:06:23
World
KALININGRAD, Russia, — A Russian Su-30SM fighter jet crashed during a scheduled training flight in the Kaliningrad region on Wednesday, October 21, according to the Russian Ministry of Defense. Both pilots ejected before impact and survived the incident. The aircraft crashed in an uninhabited area of the Chernyakhovsk district, between the settlements of Timofeevka and Zeleny Bor, near a local cemetery. The Ministry confirmed that the aircraft was not carrying any ammunition or weapons. A ground search-and-rescue team located and evacuated the two crew members. Although the Ministry stated that there was no threat to their lives, Russian media reports indicated that both pilots sustained injuries and were taken to a military hospital, where they were reported to be in moderate condition. Videos circulated by online monitoring channels showed a fire and thick smoke at the crash site. No civilian casualties were reported, and authorities have not announced the cause of the crash. The Su-30SM is a twin-engine, two-seat multirole fighter used by the Russian military for air-to-air combat and air-to-ground missions. Further details about the incident and the investigation have not yet been released.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-21 15:59:40
Space & Technology
HOUSTON, — Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) is preparing to send its Spaceborne Computer-4 to the Moon in late 2026 to test high-performance computing and artificial intelligence (AI) directly on the lunar surface. The system will travel aboard Astrolab's FLIP (FLEX Lunar Innovation Platform) robotic rover, which is scheduled to reach the lunar south pole as part of Astrobotic's Griffin-1 mission under NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services (CLPS) program. The mission will test whether a compact computer can process images, analyse terrain and support autonomous navigation on the Moon without relying on Earth-based data centres for every calculation. HPE and Astrolab confirmed the integration of the computing module with the rover earlier in 2026. Onboard Computing for Lunar Exploration Communication between Earth and the Moon involves a round-trip delay of up to approximately five seconds. This can limit real-time remote control, particularly when a rover needs to respond quickly to obstacles or changes in terrain. With Spaceborne Computer-4 processing data onboard, the rover could analyse imagery, compare its surroundings with stored maps and identify hazards such as craters without waiting for instructions from Earth. This approach, known as edge computing, allows data to be processed close to where it is collected. The system will also support mapping, terrain analysis and navigation through AI workloads, including vision inference and LiDAR data processing. Compact Computer Designed for Space Spaceborne Computer-4 is a compact, lightweight and fanless computing module housed in an aluminium chassis measuring approximately 249 mm × 132 mm × 26 mm. It includes a low-power 64-bit central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU) and two mirrored 1TB KIOXIA solid-state drives. The system will draw power from the rover's batteries and solar cells and use the rover's thermal management system, including radiators, for cooling. Its design is intended to support operation in the vacuum of space and withstand the Moon's temperature variations and higher radiation levels compared with low Earth orbit. The lunar environment presents significant challenges, including radiation exposure and nights lasting approximately 14 Earth days, when surface temperatures can fall to around -200°C. HPE uses a technique known as software hardening, in which the system checks its calculations to help identify errors caused by radiation. This approach prioritises data reliability, potentially at the cost of some processing speed. AI Experiments and Cybersecurity Tests Spaceborne Computer-4 will conduct high-performance computing benchmarks on the lunar surface, including High Performance LINPACK (HPL) and High Performance Conjugate Gradients (HPCG). The mission will also run several AI and cybersecurity experiments. NASA's FLUID experiment: The federated learning project will coordinate AI models trained using data from Earth, the Moon and the International Space Station (ISS), without requiring all data to be centralised in one location. Onboard AI assistant: A specialised large language model (LLM) will help search and interpret technical documents directly on the rover. The system will also support retrieval-augmented generation, which helps AI responses draw on relevant documents. Deloitte's Silent Shield: The cybersecurity system will monitor activity for anomalies and potential network intrusions in near-real time. These experiments will test how AI processing, distributed learning and cybersecurity systems perform beyond Earth. FLIP Rover and Griffin-1 Mission Astrolab's FLIP rover, weighing approximately 480 kilograms, is designed to carry multiple payloads and operate across lunar terrain. It features specialised wheels and is designed to function through periods of lunar night. Astrobotic's Griffin-1 lander will deliver the rover and other payloads to the lunar south polar region under NASA's CLPS program. Voyager Technologies has also been associated with the mission in published descriptions. On Earth, HPE will support Astrolab's mission control centre in Hawthorne, California, using its private cloud software to manage returning data and computing workloads. Importance for Future Lunar Missions Spaceborne Computer-4 will be the first system in HPE's Spaceborne Computer series to operate on a planetary surface. Earlier versions were deployed aboard the International Space Station. The mission will assess whether advanced computing systems can reliably perform demanding workloads in the lunar environment while reducing dependence on continuous communication with Earth. Its results could help guide the development of computing infrastructure for future lunar bases, robotic exploration and commercial space operations.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-21 15:55:35
Space & Technology
KENNEDY SPACE CENTER, — NASA has outlined updated development milestones for SpaceX and Blue Origin as the agency prepares for the return of astronauts to the Moon under its Artemis program. The revised timeline targets an uncrewed lunar landing by SpaceX in late 2027 and by Blue Origin in early 2028, ahead of a planned crewed lunar landing on Artemis IV in early 2028. The details were presented by Steve Creech, acting manager of NASA's Human Landing System Program, at the International Astronautical Congress in Antalya, Türkiye, on October 5, 2026. Both companies are developing lunar landers that must complete technical demonstrations and meet NASA's safety requirements before carrying astronauts to the lunar surface. Artemis III to Test Lunar Landers in Earth Orbit Under the revised schedule, Artemis III is planned for the third quarter of 2027 and will focus on testing rendezvous and docking between NASA's Orion spacecraft and lander test vehicles from SpaceX and Blue Origin in low Earth orbit. The mission will not include a lunar landing. Four astronauts will travel aboard Orion, launched by NASA's Space Launch System (SLS) rocket. The crew listed for the mission comprises Commander Randy Bresnik, Pilot Luca Parmitano, and Mission Specialists Frank Rubio and Andre Douglas. The roughly two-week flight will test whether Orion can safely rendezvous and dock with the two companies' test vehicles. The results will help NASA assess the landers' readiness and determine which system is suitable for a crewed lunar landing. SpaceX Targets Starship Lunar Landing by Late 2027 SpaceX is targeting an uncrewed Starship lunar landing in the fourth quarter of 2027. Before proceeding, the company must demonstrate orbital propellant transfer between Starships, a key requirement for refuelling the Starship Human Landing System in Earth orbit. NASA's current planning targets this demonstration for the first quarter of 2027. SpaceX plans to launch a lunar landing-version Starship in late third quarter or early fourth quarter of 2027, with the landing attempt planned by the end of the year. For the Artemis III orbital test, the company will use a modified Starship Version 3 upper stage fitted with a docking system. This test vehicle will not have a complete crew cabin, and astronauts will not transfer into it. Blue Origin Advances Blue Moon Mark 2 Development Blue Origin is targeting an uncrewed lunar landing of its Blue Moon Mark 2 lander in the first quarter of 2028. The approximately 16-metre-tall vehicle is powered by three BE-7 engines. For the Artemis III demonstration, Blue Origin plans to test a more complete vehicle featuring a crew cabin, elements of its life-support systems and flight software. An uncrewed Mark 2 demonstration vehicle is targeted for launch in the fourth quarter of 2027, ahead of its planned lunar landing attempt. Blue Origin is also developing the smaller Blue Moon Mark 1 cargo lander, scheduled to launch to the Moon in the first quarter of 2027 under NASA's Commercial Lunar Payload Services program. Additional Mark 1 missions are planned, including flights to deliver NASA's VIPER rover and a lunar terrain vehicle. NASA Yet to Select the First Crewed Lunar Lander NASA has not yet decided whether SpaceX's Starship or Blue Origin's Blue Moon Mark 2 will carry the first Artemis astronauts to the lunar surface. The decision will depend on development progress, the results of the required demonstrations and completion of safety reviews. The agency is also conducting ground studies of rocket plume interactions with the lunar surface and testing docking systems to reduce risks before crewed operations. The Artemis IV mission is targeted for early 2028 and is expected to carry astronauts to the Moon's surface, marking the first American crewed lunar landing since Apollo 17 in December 1972. A possible second crewed landing under Artemis V is also being considered for later in 2028. NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman and other program leaders are scheduled to discuss the Artemis timeline and commercial lunar lander progress during a live press briefing at Kennedy Space Center on Friday, October 23, 2026. The programme's progress will depend on both companies meeting their development milestones and demonstrating that their vehicles are ready for crewed lunar missions.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-21 15:48:02
Europe
BERLIN, — Germany is exploring the development of remotely controlled self-propelled artillery systems that could operate without a crew inside the vehicle, including in high-threat areas. According to the defence publication Hartpunkt, the German Army and Defence Ministry are examining options based on existing artillery automation technology, with the tracked version of the RCH 155, known as LORAS, emerging as the preferred configuration. Germany already has the wheeled RCH 155 self-propelled howitzer, which uses an automated Artillery Gun Module (AGM) to handle loading, gun positioning and firing. Mounted on a Boxer 8×8 chassis, the standard system carries a two-person crew consisting of a driver and a turret operator, both protected inside the vehicle. Tracked LORAS Offers a Potential Basis The RCH 155 LORAS combines the automated AGM with the tracked Boxer Tracked chassis and a longer 155 mm/L58 gun developed by KNDS France. The system was publicly displayed by defence manufacturer KNDS at the Eurosatory exhibition in June 2026. According to KNDS, the LORAS can reach targets at distances exceeding 60 kilometres with standard ammunition and up to approximately 100 kilometres with specialised rounds. The preference for a tracked chassis reflects the need for improved cross-country mobility in environments where unmanned artillery systems may be required to operate. The Boxer Tracked platform was designed to support future remote-control capabilities when fitted with the necessary equipment. Remote Operation and Drone Integration In early 2026, the German branch of KNDS demonstrated a remote-control kit called UxV CS, designed for wheeled and tracked vehicles in the Boxer family. The technology could provide a starting point for developing remotely operated artillery vehicles. The proposed concept involves a team of up to five operators working remotely. They would control the vehicle's movement, operate the howitzer and manage aerial drones that provide targeting information and support artillery fire. Although technical solutions already exist for remotely driving and manoeuvring the vehicle, a complete system for remotely controlling the firing process has not yet been developed. Coordinating the vehicle, gun and drones through a single remote-control arrangement remains a significant technical challenge. Procurement and Development Status The German Army has ordered 84 wheeled RCH 155 systems under a framework agreement covering up to 500 units. Deliveries of series-production vehicles are planned to begin in 2028. The proposed unmanned configuration remains at an early discussion stage. The complete remote-control system has not undergone field testing, and further development and trials will be needed to assess its reliability and effectiveness under operational conditions. Germany is therefore examining whether the automation already available in the RCH 155 and the tracked LORAS configuration can be extended to fully unmanned artillery operations. No procurement decision for an unmanned version has been confirmed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-21 15:42:19
World
KALININGRAD, Russia, — Russia is constructing a large over-the-horizon (OTH) radar facility in its Kaliningrad exclave that could detect aircraft and missiles at distances of up to approximately 3,000 kilometres, according to satellite imagery analysed by Finnish synthetic aperture radar company ICEYE. The potential detection range covers much of northern and western Europe, including Germany, France and the United Kingdom. The facility is located near Gvardeysk, approximately 20–37 kilometres from the Polish border and around 40 miles from Lithuania. Satellite images taken in late August 2026 show three antenna arrays, each more than 500 metres long, arranged in a star-like pattern and protected by a double fence. Construction appears to have begun around March 2023. The German newspaper Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung and The Times reported on the findings on October 19, 2026. Radar Capabilities and Technical Details Analysts believe the installation belongs to Russia's 29B6 Container radar family, which uses high-frequency radio waves that interact with the ionosphere to detect targets beyond the line of sight of conventional radar. Depending on its final specifications, the facility could monitor aircraft, missiles and ships at distances of approximately 900–3,000 kilometres. Russian defence claims state that a fully operational Container radar can track up to 10,000 aerial objects simultaneously. The technology may contribute to detecting stealth aircraft, including the F-35, but its ability to detect a target does not necessarily mean it can provide the precise tracking required for a weapon engagement. The new facility's operational status and actual capabilities remain unconfirmed. Wider Russian Military Expansion in the Baltic ICEYE's analysis identified more than 20 new or expanding signals-intelligence and electronic-warfare sites across Kaliningrad, including a large circular antenna complex near Chernyakhovsk. Lithuania's intelligence assessment, released in March 2026, also highlighted the multi-site radar development. Lithuanian reporting indicates that GPS-spoofing antennas in Kaliningrad have increased from a handful in early 2025 to at least 36 additional installations more recently. GPS spoofing involves transmitting misleading positioning signals to cause receivers to calculate incorrect locations. Satellite imagery has also revealed new or restored barracks, storage and training facilities in Karelia and the Leningrad military district, including an equipment depot north of Petrozavodsk. At a mobile S-400 air-defence site near Baltiysk, launchers were observed raised into firing position, indicating readiness at the time of observation. Strategic Importance Kaliningrad is a strategically positioned Russian territory on the Baltic Sea, bordered by NATO members Poland and Lithuania. It already hosts elements of Russia's Baltic Fleet, air-defence systems and missile units. Russia currently has one fully operational Container radar system, which was reportedly targeted by Ukrainian drone strikes in April 2024. A second facility in Kaliningrad could provide additional surveillance coverage and redundancy while improving monitoring of military movements and maritime and aerial traffic across northern Europe. ICEYE's synthetic aperture radar satellites can image the ground during the day and night and through cloud cover. Although the imagery confirms substantial construction at the Gvardeysk site, it does not establish that the facility is operational or verify its final technical specifications.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-21 15:37:17
U.S
CAMDEN, Arkansas, — L3Harris Technologies has opened its new Arsenal of Freedom solid rocket motor production facility in Camden, Arkansas, to double its current production capacity for Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rocket motors and meet growing demand for tactical missile systems. The 60,000-square-foot plant, located in Highland Industrial Park in East Camden, consolidates GMLRS motor manufacturing operations previously spread across three buildings, reducing the distance motors travel during production by approximately 80 percent. The facility uses advanced automation, robotics and digital manufacturing and can produce one GMLRS solid rocket motor every nine minutes, according to company officials. Production is expected to begin shortly. The project is part of a $216 million cooperative agreement signed in 2023 with the US Department of War under the Defense Production Act Title III programme. The agreement also supports new facilities in Orange County, Virginia, and equipment and digital upgrades at existing facilities in Huntsville, Alabama. The investment is intended to strengthen domestic production and supply chains for GMLRS, Javelin and Stinger missile systems. Michael P. Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment, said the facility strengthens rocket motor production capacity and supports a resilient, secure supply chain for US forces and allied nations. Ken Bedingfield, president of Missile Solutions at L3Harris, said the plant combines advanced manufacturing technology with skilled workers to increase output while maintaining quality and reliability. Camden Expansion Supports PAC-3 Production L3Harris’ Camden site covers approximately 2,000 acres and already produces more than 100,000 solid rocket motors annually in different sizes. The company is also developing the Arkansas Advanced Propulsion Facilities campus, where construction began in November 2025. The planned campus will cover approximately 110 acres and include more than 20 buildings. Once completed, it is expected to increase large solid rocket motor production capacity sixfold, with the first buildings targeted for handover to production teams in mid-2027. Two additional facilities are also planned to support PAC-3 interceptor propulsion production. One, measuring approximately 75,000 square feet, will handle casting, curing and final assembly, while another, measuring approximately 70,000 square feet, will support rocket motor case preparation. In October 2026, L3Harris received a $250 million follow-on award from Lockheed Martin for standard-range GMLRS propulsion units, covering the highest quantity in the programme’s history. The motors will be manufactured at the new Arsenal of Freedom facility. An earlier contract covered up to $200 million for GMLRS Insensitive Munition propulsion units. Multibillion-Dollar Manufacturing Investment The new plant is part of L3Harris’ wider multibillion-dollar expansion programme involving approximately 60 facilities, equipment projects and manufacturing upgrades across Arkansas, California, Virginia and Alabama. The company aims to double, triple or quadruple propulsion production rates across key programmes. Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders attended the opening and described Camden as an important defence industry centre. She confirmed that production at the new plant would begin shortly. Senators John Boozman and Tom Cotton, Representative Bruce Westerman and Arkansas Secretary of Commerce Hugh McDonald also welcomed the investment, citing its importance for defence manufacturing and jobs in southern Arkansas. L3Harris has not disclosed a specific annual output target or a detailed timeline for reaching the new facility’s planned capacity. The expansion is intended to increase rocket motor production, strengthen the US defence industrial base and support demand for precision-guided weapons.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-21 15:29:30Search
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