U.S
WASHINGTON — The United States Marine Corps has selected the Bullfrog autonomous weapon station, developed by Texas-based Allen Control Systems (ACS), for integration into its Light Marine Air Defense Integrated System (L-MADIS), strengthening the service's expeditionary counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) capability. The selection was made under a prototype Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) as part of the Marine Corps' Ground Based Air Defense (GBAD) program. The initial contract is valued at approximately $6.2 million, while the Marine Corps has requested $1.27 billion for GBAD capabilities in its fiscal year 2027 budget. AI-Guided Robotic Mount for Existing Weapons Rather than introducing a new firearm, Bullfrog is a robotic weapon station designed to convert existing military weapons into AI-assisted precision systems. The version selected by the Marine Corps is configured around the M240 machine gun, enabling it to detect, track and engage aerial targets with significantly reduced operator workload. The system weighs approximately 300 pounds (136 kilograms) without ammunition and fires standard 7.62×51mm NATO ammunition at a maximum cyclic rate of 850 rounds per minute. Bullfrog uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to manage target detection, tracking and engagement. It relies on a fully passive sensor suite, using optical cameras and onboard data processing instead of radar or other active emissions. This approach allows the system to track targets without broadcasting signals that could reveal its position to enemy electronic warfare systems. Despite its high level of automation, Bullfrog operates under a human-in-the-loop model. The system performs target tracking and firing calculations, but a human operator must authorize every engagement before the weapon fires. According to Allen Control Systems, Bullfrog is designed to engage Group 1 through Group 3 unmanned aerial systems, ranging from small commercial quadcopters to tactical fixed-wing drones weighing up to 1,320 pounds (599 kilograms). Depending on the installed weapon, the system has a maximum effective range of up to 1,500 meters against point targets. Integration with L-MADIS The Bullfrog weapon station will be integrated into the Marine Corps' Light Marine Air Defense Integrated System (L-MADIS), the service's most expeditionary counter-drone platform currently in operation. L-MADIS consists of two Polaris MRZR all-terrain vehicles operating together. One vehicle serves as a command-and-control platform, while the second carries an electronic warfare suite designed to detect, jam and disrupt hostile drones. The addition of Bullfrog provides L-MADIS with a kinetic counter-drone capability, allowing Marines to physically engage drones if electronic jamming is ineffective, particularly against autonomous drones operating without active radio links. "The Marine Corps requires the most sophisticated and accurate possible capabilities to carry out its critical missions," said Mike Wior, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Allen Control Systems. "We are honored to support Marines with fast, scalable, and cost-effective counter-drone solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing platforms," he added. Lower-Cost Drone Interception The system is intended to provide a lower-cost method of defeating drones by using standard machine gun ammunition instead of missile interceptors. According to Allen Control Systems, using conventional ammunition can reduce the cost of intercepting drones to as little as $10 per engagement, allowing forces to respond to multiple drone threats without relying on limited stocks of more expensive interceptor missiles. Previous Testing and Military Adoption Bullfrog attracted attention during the Department of Defense's Technology Readiness Experimentation event at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, in August 2024, where it successfully engaged drone targets during a two-week evaluation attended by military officials, including former Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Heidi Shyu and representatives from U.S. Special Operations Command. The system has also been validated by Joint Interagency Task Force 401, the Pentagon's counter-drone coordination unit. In December 2025, the U.S. Army Applications Lab awarded Allen Control Systems a $4.5 million contract to evaluate Bullfrog integration across five Army combat vehicles. The company also confirmed that Bullfrog systems have already been deployed with U.S. Army and U.S. Navy units. Internationally, Allen Control Systems has secured export contracts with South Korea and the United Arab Emirates, and has signed a memorandum of understanding for local co-production in Romania. Multiple Weapon Configurations In addition to the M240 variant selected by the Marine Corps, Allen Control Systems manufactures Bullfrog configurations designed for the M2 machine gun, M230 30mm automatic cannon, and M134 Gatling-style rotary gun, allowing the system to be adapted for different operational requirements. Company Background Allen Control Systems is headquartered in Austin, Texas, and was founded by Mike Wior, Steven Simoni, and Luke Allen, two of whom previously served as U.S. Navy nuclear engineers. The company recently completed a $200 million Series B funding round in June 2026 at a $2.2 billion valuation, with plans to expand its manufacturing capacity to support growing defense demand. Source : breakingdefense
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-21 15:21:41
U.S
WASHINGTON — Lockheed Martin is expanding its U.S. munitions production capacity through four factory and workforce initiatives across Pennsylvania, Florida and Arkansas as part of a long-term investment strategy worth more than $9 billion. According to the company, the investment is intended to increase manufacturing capacity, improve supply-chain resilience and meet rising demand for advanced defense systems. Lockheed Martin said the projects are already increasing production output, improving manufacturing efficiency and strengthening its defense workforce. The expansion supports several key missile programs, including the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) interceptor and Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). Pennsylvania expansion In Pennsylvania, Lockheed Martin plans to invest more than $60 million to expand its existing facility in Archbald. The project will double the site's physical size and create more than 700 jobs. The company has also leased a new 150,000-square-foot facility in nearby Jessup, which will manufacture cable-and-harness systems for PrSM, THAAD, PAC-3, Apache sensors and other defense programs. Phased production at the Jessup facility is scheduled to begin in 2027. Lockheed Martin said the additional space will accommodate more tooling, test equipment and hardware. The facility will also introduce advanced manufacturing technologies, including digital projection harness boards, a modular digital-twin production floor for rapid assembly-line reconfiguration, and advanced material-handling automation to improve manufacturing scale and speed. Florida production improvements In Orlando, Florida, the company has combined three older paint bays into a single high-performance paint facility that supports THAAD, PrSM and other missile systems. According to Lockheed Martin, the new layout enables manufacturing teams to reconfigure production cells in hours instead of weeks. Improved temperature and humidity controls, together with a high-efficiency oven, have reduced cure times by 15%. The Orlando facility also includes five recirculating paint booths, a second high-efficiency oven to reduce production bottlenecks, and sensor-based mix-room controls designed to improve paint consistency and reduce rework. At its Ocala, Florida facility, Lockheed Martin has introduced a Progressive Work Smart Assembly Line for missile control unit and seeker subassemblies. The company said the assembly line uses modular and flexible workstations to improve material flow and reduce waste. Early production results indicate an approximately 50% reduction in hours per unit for both missile control unit and seeker builds. Lockheed Martin said it plans to expand the smart-line manufacturing approach to additional production sites and missile programs to accelerate delivery of systems to military forces. Workforce expansion in Arkansas To support increased manufacturing capacity, Lockheed Martin is also expanding its workforce in Camden, Arkansas. The company's high school hiring initiative reached a staffing record in its fourth year, with more than 40 candidates transitioning into full-time positions this year to support higher munitions production. The program, conducted in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, has now brought more than 90 apprentices into Lockheed Martin's workforce. According to the company, the partnership helps develop a skilled workforce for national security manufacturing while providing local workers with a structured pathway into advanced manufacturing and defense-related careers. The workforce expansion aligns with the recent groundbreaking of a new Munitions Acceleration Center in Camden, which is intended to increase production of THAAD and PAC-3 interceptors. Lockheed Martin said the four initiatives combine factory expansion, advanced manufacturing technologies, automation and workforce development to strengthen munitions production capacity for current and future U.S. and allied defense requirements. Source : lockheedmartin
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-21 15:13:38
U.S
ANDOVER, Mass. — Raytheon, a business of RTX, has received a $1.8 billion contract modification from the U.S. Navy to continue the production and sustainment of the AN/SPY-6(V) family of radar systems, supporting the Navy's ongoing modernization of its surface fleet. The contract extension builds on the original hardware production and sustainment agreement awarded to Raytheon in March 2022. According to the company, the modified agreement includes contract options that, if fully exercised, would increase the total cumulative value to $3.39 billion. The SPY-6 family of active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars is designed to detect and track multiple threats simultaneously, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, hostile aircraft, and surface ships. The radar provides greater detection range and improved sensitivity compared with legacy U.S. Navy radar systems. Raytheon said the SPY-6 radar is currently operational aboard two commissioned U.S. Navy ships and has been installed on 11 additional vessels that are undergoing various stages of sea trials and testing. Over the next decade, the Navy plans to deploy the radar across more than 50 ships, including Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, frigates, aircraft carriers, and amphibious assault ships. “This contract extension reflects the Navy’s confidence in our ability to deliver advanced, reliable and scalable radar solutions,” said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon. “Our continued investment and commitment to ramping production will ensure the fleet has the sensing advantage to stay ahead of evolving threats for decades to come.” The SPY-6 radar family is the result of more than a decade of design, testing, and manufacturing work, and Raytheon said the system has been validated through operational performance at sea. To support the Navy's planned deployment schedule, Raytheon has invested more than $800 million to modernize its radar manufacturing facilities and expand production capacity. The company said these upgrades are expected to double SPY-6 production by 2028, helping improve long-term hardware availability while reducing overall costs for the Navy. Manufacturing work under the contract will be carried out at several U.S. facilities. Approximately 30% of the production will take place in Andover, Massachusetts, where Raytheon is expanding its engineering workforce to support the program. Additional work will be performed in San Diego, California; Scottsdale, Arizona; and Syracuse, New York. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the base contract work is scheduled for completion by July 2031. If all contract options are exercised, work could continue through October 2031. Source : rtx
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-21 14:52:51
World
OTTAWA — The Government of Canada has awarded Babcock Canada a six-year contract extension worth more than $1 billion to continue providing in-service support for the Royal Canadian Navy's Victoria-class submarine fleet, ensuring the submarines remain operational as the country prepares to transition to a new generation of vessels over the next decade. The extension to the Victoria In-Service Support Contract (VISSC) allows Babcock Canada to continue serving as the fleet's prime contractor, a role it has held for more than 18 years. The agreement also includes options to extend support through to the end of the Victoria-class submarines' operational life, which is expected in the mid-to-late 2030s. The contract is intended to maintain Canada's existing submarine capability while the country advances the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP), which will replace the current fleet with up to 12 Type 212CD conventionally powered submarines. Maintaining Canada's Victoria-Class Fleet The Royal Canadian Navy currently operates four Victoria-class submarines, originally built between 1983 and 1990, acquired by Canada in the late 1990s, and brought into service in the early 2000s. As the submarines approach four decades of service, sustaining the fleet requires extensive engineering, maintenance, upgrades, refits, and periodic deep maintenance. The Victoria-class is considered an "orphan class" because no other navy currently operates the submarines, meaning many original replacement parts are no longer produced. To address this challenge, Babcock Canada reverse-engineers obsolete components and manufactures replacement parts through a Canadian supply chain. The company also works with Canadian shipyards, including Seaspan's Victoria Shipyards, to carry out major maintenance periods. HMCS Corner Brook is currently deployed in the Pacific Ocean participating in RIMPAC, the world's largest international maritime exercise, while the remaining three submarines are undergoing scheduled maintenance. Supporting the Transition to Canada's Future Fleet The VISSC extension is intended to ensure uninterrupted submarine support until Canada's next-generation fleet enters service. Earlier in July 2026, Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) had been selected as the preferred bidder under the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project. Initial deliveries of the new submarines are expected between 2032 and 2034, while the Victoria-class fleet will continue operating into the mid-to-late 2030s to avoid a capability gap. Tony March, Chief Executive Officer of Babcock Canada, said the company is proud to continue supporting the Royal Canadian Navy. "Supporting the men and women of the Royal Canadian Navy with a safe and capable submarine fleet is something Babcock is hugely proud of, and this contract extension continues our longstanding partnership and delivery of this important sovereign and strategic capability," March said. He said the extension will strengthen support for the Victoria-class fleet while helping maintain Canada's submarine sustainment workforce and engineering expertise during the transition to the future fleet. Economic Impact According to Babcock Canada, work under the Victoria In-Service Support Contract has contributed more than $3.2 billion to Canada's gross domestic product since 2008. The program supports more than 1,500 jobs annually, including over 1,300 engineering and technical positions, and works with a network of more than 450 Canadian suppliers. Babcock also collaborates with Canadian universities, colleges, Indigenous communities, and small and medium-sized businesses to support workforce development, technical training, and innovation in the submarine sector. Babcock has also indicated it intends to compete for the sustainment contract for Canada's future Type 212CD submarine fleet, building on the experience and industrial capabilities developed through more than 18 years of supporting the Royal Canadian Navy's Victoria-class submarines. Source : bnnbloomberg.ca
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-21 06:35:28
Europe
FARNBOROUGH, UK — Raytheon is significantly increasing production of its Coyote counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) interceptor to meet growing demand under the U.S. Army's Low, Slow, Small Unmanned Aircraft Integrated Defeat System (LIDS) program following the system's operational success in the Middle East. The production expansion comes after the U.S. Army approved the disclosure of 600 successful combat intercepts achieved by the Coyote system during its deployment as part of Operation Epic Fury, highlighting its role in countering drone threats in active operations. Speaking during a media briefing at the Farnborough International Airshow, Tom Laliberty, president of Raytheon's Land and Air Defense Systems business, said integrated air and missile defense remains one of the military's highest priorities as the use of unmanned aerial systems continues to increase. "The system is now in wide use, and it has been significantly successful combating Class 1 through 3 drones," Laliberty said. He added that Raytheon has tripled Coyote production over the past year and plans to double output again by the end of next year, reaching a production rate of approximately 300 missiles per month. The Coyote interceptor operates together with Raytheon's Ku-band Radio Frequency Sensor (KuRFS) radar, which provides 360-degree detection, tracking and identification of small airborne targets. Integrated within the Army's LIDS architecture, the combined system is designed to detect and defeat unmanned aerial threats in both fixed-site and mobile configurations. Raytheon currently offers two interchangeable Coyote variants that can be launched from the same launcher depending on mission requirements. The Coyote Block 2 is an expendable interceptor equipped with a kinetic warhead that physically destroys individual drones during interception. The Coyote Block 3NK is a reusable and rechargeable variant fitted with a high-power microwave (HPM) payload designed primarily to defeat drone swarms using non-kinetic effects. After completing its mission, the interceptor can be recovered, recharged and redeployed. Raytheon recently demonstrated the Block 3NK's capabilities during a U.S. Army exercise in Tucson, Arizona, where the system successfully defeated multiple drone swarms before completing its full mission cycle of launch, engagement, recovery and reuse. The company is also evaluating upgrades to the Coyote family, including improvements to its seeker and propulsion systems, to enable faster engagements and interceptions at greater altitudes as drone threats continue to evolve. Laliberty said recent conflicts have highlighted the growing importance of layered air defense systems capable of handling large-scale attacks involving different types of weapons. He pointed to operations in the Middle East and the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia, where attackers have increasingly combined expensive precision-guided weapons with large numbers of lower-cost drones launched from multiple directions. According to Laliberty, defending against these attacks requires military forces to protect numerous assets simultaneously while selecting the most appropriate interceptor for each threat. He emphasized that effective command-and-control systems are essential for coordinating multiple layers of air defense and ensuring that different systems work together efficiently. "As you bring these lower-cost technologies together, the other thing that's really important is the ability to have command and control that spans these layers so that you do the appropriate target or threat to weapon assignment," Laliberty said. He added that integrated air defense allows operators to use a Coyote interceptor against lower-cost drone threats, such as a Shahed unmanned aircraft, while preserving higher-value systems like the Patriot missile for more advanced threats. Raytheon's production expansion also aligns with broader U.S. Army procurement efforts. In September 2025, the Pentagon awarded the company a $5.04 billion contract covering Coyote systems, launchers and KuRFS radars, with work scheduled to continue through 2033. Earlier contracts also included additional orders for hundreds of Coyote interceptors to support operational requirements. The continued increase in production reflects the U.S. Army's focus on expanding affordable, scalable counter-drone capabilities as unmanned aerial threats become a larger component of modern military operations. By integrating Coyote interceptors, KuRFS radars, command-and-control networks and electronic warfare capabilities within the LIDS architecture, the Army aims to provide comprehensive protection against a wide range of drone threats while improving the cost-effectiveness of layered air defense. Source : nationaldefensemagazine
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-21 06:20:04
U.S
CINCINNATI — GE Aerospace and Shield AI have successfully completed integration, actuation, and engine light-off testing of the propulsion system for the X-BAT autonomous vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) strike fighter, marking an important milestone ahead of the aircraft's planned flight tests later this year. The testing was conducted at GE Aerospace's Peebles, Ohio, facility and focused on integrating the Axisymmetric Vectoring Exhaust Nozzle (AVEN) with the F110-GE-129E fighter engine. Engineers from both companies modified the AVEN hardware, integrated it with the engine, completed functional system checks, and successfully performed an engine light-off to verify the propulsion system's operation. The campaign represents the first fully integrated test combining the AVEN's hardware, controls, and engine systems to execute coordinated thrust-vectoring nozzle movements since the technology was originally developed in the 1990s. Flight-Proven AVEN Nozzle Adapted for X-BAT The AVEN nozzle provides the thrust vectoring required for the X-BAT to perform vertical take-off, landing, and transition between vertical and conventional flight. The technology was originally developed for a multi-axis thrust-vectoring program using the experimental F-16 VISTA (Variable-stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft) during the 1990s. During that program, the nozzle accumulated 73 hours of ground testing and 135 flight hours across 95 flights. Rather than developing a new nozzle from the beginning, Shield AI refurbished the flight-tested AVEN hardware for the X-BAT program. However, the company said the aircraft's tail-sitting design requires significantly faster nozzle gimbaling to maintain stability during vertical flight than was required in the original F-16 program. Armor Harris, Senior Vice President of Aircraft Engineering at Shield AI, said the AVEN system is central to the aircraft's ability to operate without runways. "X-BAT is designed to take off and land vertically from anywhere—no airbase, no runway—and that capability lives or dies with propulsion. The AVEN is what makes vertical flight possible on a platform this size and this capable. Taking hardware with a flight-proven track record and adapting it for that mission has let us move through development at an incredible pace instead of starting from zero." Designed for Runway-Independent Operations Shield AI publicly unveiled the X-BAT in late 2025 as a long-range Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) powered by the company's Hivemind autonomy software. The aircraft is designed to operate independently or alongside crewed aircraft in contested environments where traditional airbases and runways may not be available. Unlike conventional fighter aircraft, the X-BAT launches vertically from a trailer-mounted platform and requires a clearing of approximately 100 by 100 feet. The aircraft uses the F110 engine's afterburner during vertical take-off to generate maximum thrust, while landings are performed using military power. Despite its runway-independent design, the aircraft has dimensions comparable to a fighter aircraft, measuring about 26 feet (7.9 meters) in length with a 39-foot (11.9-meter) wingspan. Its twin internal weapons bays are similar in size to those of the F-35 and are designed to carry up to 2,000-pound-class weapons internally. The X-BAT has a combat radius of 1,000 nautical miles, a maximum range exceeding 2,000 nautical miles, and is capable of operating at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet. The aircraft also generates 80 kilowatts of onboard electrical power, supporting electronic warfare (EW) systems, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) payloads, and both active and passive radar capabilities. F110 Engine Powers the X-BAT Program The successful engine light-off follows Shield AI's selection of GE Aerospace in November 2025 to provide propulsion and testing support for the X-BAT program. The F110 engine family, which recently marked 40 years of continuous production, has accumulated more than 11 million flight hours in operational service and remains one of the most widely used high-thrust fighter engines. Doogie Russell, Vice President of Edison Works at GE Aerospace, said the testing combines proven propulsion technology with a new autonomous aircraft design. "The integration of AVEN into our F110-GE-129E engine and a successful light off represents a full-circle moment for our GE Aerospace team. By combining our proven experience in developing propulsion systems with Shield AI's next-generation vehicle development, we are integrating the best of past, present, and future products to create a revolutionary aircraft." Flight Testing Planned Later This Year Following completion of the ground testing campaign at Peebles, the integrated AVEN propulsion system is entering final preparations for flight evaluation. The X-BAT prototype is scheduled to begin flight testing later in 2026, with the recent propulsion tests validating a key system required for the aircraft's vertical flight capability. The program is intended to demonstrate a runway-independent autonomous strike aircraft capable of operating from ships, islands, trailers, and other remote locations while carrying fighter-sized payloads over long distances. Source : shield.ai
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 16:53:54
Europe
LONDON — The international consortium developing the propulsion system for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) has moved closer to ground-testing its next-generation engine demonstrator after completing a series of major design reviews. The engine development team, comprising Italy's Avio Aero, Japan's IHI Corporation, and the United Kingdom's Rolls-Royce, confirmed that the all-new centerline engine demonstrator is nearing final design approval. The demonstrator is a key step in reducing technical risks before the propulsion system enters full-scale development for the GCAP fighter aircraft. GCAP is a joint program between the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan to develop a next-generation stealth combat aircraft expected to enter service around 2035. The three companies said they have completed more than 100 subscale component tests, while manufacturing of engine components is progressing across facilities in all three partner nations. The upcoming ground-testing phase will provide critical performance data needed to finalize the design of the aircraft's full power and propulsion system. In addition to validating new technologies, the engine demonstrator will help the partners evaluate manufacturing methods, engineering tools, and development processes intended to reduce the overall program timeline. Unlike previous-generation fighter engines, the GCAP propulsion system is being designed to deliver not only thrust but also the electrical power and thermal management required for advanced radar systems, sensors, electronic systems, and future weapons. Phil Townley, Director of Future Programmes for Defence at Rolls-Royce, said the engine is being developed as a "flying power station" capable of handling the significant electrical and thermal demands of next-generation mission systems. He added that the trilateral partnership is enabling the companies to work as a single team despite operating across three countries. IHI Corporation is contributing advanced Japanese engine technologies, materials, and manufacturing expertise to the program. Noriyuki Nakamura, Senior Technical Advisor at IHI, said the company is combining its latest technologies with the experience of Rolls-Royce and Avio Aero to develop the propulsion system that will serve as the "heart" of the future combat aircraft. He also highlighted the importance of building long-term cooperation and trust among the participating companies. Edoardo Curti, General Manager of Avio Aero's Defense Business Unit, described the completion of the recent design reviews as a significant milestone. He said the achievement reflects the partners' shared commitment to developing next-generation propulsion technology while strengthening long-term industrial cooperation under the GCAP program. To support closer coordination, the three companies recently opened a dedicated Collaboration Hub in Reading, United Kingdom. The facility allows engineers from Italy, Japan, and the UK to work together alongside representatives from the GCAP Agency and Edgewing, the industrial joint venture responsible for the aircraft's overall design and delivery. Edgewing was established by BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. In July 2026, the GCAP Agency awarded the company a £4.6 billion (approximately $6.1 billion) contract to carry the fighter aircraft into its detailed design and testing phase. The program targets a crewed demonstrator flight by the end of 2027. The proximity of the engine consortium to Edgewing is intended to ensure close integration between the propulsion system and the aircraft's airframe, electrical architecture, and thermal management systems throughout development. Beyond its military objectives, the GCAP engine program also supports the aerospace industries of the three partner nations. According to the consortium, the propulsion program currently sustains more than 9,000 highly skilled aerospace jobs worldwide while contributing to the long-term development of engineering and manufacturing expertise. With design reviews completed and component testing continuing, the consortium's immediate priority is to transition the engine demonstrator to ground testing, marking the next major stage in validating the propulsion system for the GCAP fighter aircraft. Source : rolls-royce
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 16:39:10
Europe
FARNBOROUGH, England, July 20, 2026 — Anduril Industries and Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR) on Monday unveiled Thunder, a Group 5 Autonomous Air Vehicle (AAV) designed to operate alongside crewed attack and assault helicopters, increasing combat capability while reducing risk to pilots in contested environments. The aircraft was introduced at the Farnborough International Airshow as part of a strategic partnership between Anduril and Archer Aviation that combines Archer's electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) technology with Anduril's autonomous mission systems. The companies said Thunder is a dual-use platform that brings commercial VTOL technology into military applications while sharing a common development baseline for both defense and commercial variants. The modern battlefield is a robotic kill zone. Attack helicopters and their crews face more sophisticated threats than ever before. In this new era of maneuver warfare, we need eyes for what’s ahead and a shield for what we can’t afford to lose. Thunder is a Group 5… pic.twitter.com/0gWwAKZFJC — Anduril Industries (@anduriltech) July 20, 2026 Built as a New Military Platform According to the companies, Thunder has been under development since 2024 and was designed from the ground up rather than adapted from Archer's commercial air taxi aircraft. Archer Aviation CEO Adam Goldstein said the program followed a "first principles" approach to develop a purpose-built vertical lift aircraft capable of meeting military operational requirements. The aircraft uses a series hybrid-electric powertrain combined with Optimum Speed Tiltrotor (OSTR) technology, allowing its rotors to adjust rotational speed for improved efficiency during different phases of flight. This enables Thunder to perform vertical takeoffs and landings like a helicopter while transitioning to efficient wingborne forward flight, providing greater speed, range and endurance. The hybrid-electric propulsion system is designed to provide sufficient range for long-distance self-deployment. For transport, Thunder can also be packed into a standard shipping container, allowing movement by air, road, rail or sea into operational areas. Designed for Multiple Mission Types Thunder is intended to operate as an autonomous attack rotorcraft that supports crewed helicopters such as the AH-64 Apache or flies independently in autonomous formations. The aircraft features modular internal payload bays in both the main fuselage and nose section, allowing operators to configure it for different mission requirements. These payloads include precision-guided weapons, rockets, launched effects, electronic warfare systems, counter-unmanned aerial system (counter-UAS) equipment and standard cargo. According to Anduril, the main payload module can be configured to carry: Up to 10 air-to-ground missiles, including AGM-114 Hellfire, AGM-179 JAGM or Anduril's Barracuda-100M Up to 16 launched effects, including the Altius-600 Up to 76 individual 70mm rockets In addition, the nose payload module can simultaneously carry 12 counter-UAS effectors, enabling the aircraft to engage aerial threats while carrying weapons for ground attack missions. The company said the platform's open architecture allows future mission systems and payloads to be integrated as operational requirements evolve. Supporting Crewed Aviation Anduril said Thunder is designed to complement, rather than replace, existing crewed aircraft. The company said pairing multiple Thunder aircraft with platforms such as the Apache could significantly increase available firepower without requiring additional pilots while helping crews operate at greater stand-off distances. Its autonomous software is designed to enable coordinated operations between crewed and uncrewed aircraft while providing a shared tactical picture across formations. Developed for Contested Environments The companies said the platform was developed in response to changing battlefield conditions, where the widespread use of drones, loitering munitions, persistent intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, and low-cost air defense systems has increased the risks faced by conventional attack helicopters. Thunder is intended to provide additional combat effects in these contested environments by combining autonomous operation with a large payload capacity, extended range and vertical lift capability. Testing and Future Plans Anduril and Archer said they have completed multiple test flights using full-scale surrogate aircraft to validate the platform's core technologies. The first flight of the production Thunder aircraft is planned for 2027. Alongside the defense-focused Thunder program, Archer Aviation said it plans to announce a commercial version of the platform, known as Halo, along with its first commercial launch partners later this week. Following the announcement, Archer Aviation shares rose more than 14% in Monday morning trading, reflecting investor interest in the company's expansion into the defense sector.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 15:57:46
U.S
LONDON — Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, announced at the Farnborough International Airshow that it has successfully completed demonstration testing of its additively manufactured TJ150 turbojet engine, marking an important step in the company's use of 3D printing technology for military propulsion systems. The TJ150 is a compact turbojet engine developed for expendable applications, including certain autonomous systems and weapons. These systems are typically designed for missions lasting only minutes or hours, making simplified designs and faster production an important requirement. According to Pratt & Whitney, nearly 60% of the TJ150 engine by volume was produced using additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing. The additively manufactured sections include major static components as well as rotating hardware, demonstrating the use of the technology across critical parts of the engine. The demonstration testing evaluated the performance of the 3D-printed materials under realistic operating conditions. The company said the tests confirmed that the engine meets the durability requirements for its intended military missions while providing valuable data on the use of additive manufacturing in propulsion systems. As part of the TJ150 program, Pratt & Whitney invested in additive manufacturing capabilities to support future production and scalability. Engineers consolidated more than 50 individual hot-section components into a small number of additively manufactured parts, reducing assembly complexity. The company also successfully tested a 3D-printed rotating turbine wheel, one of the key components operating under high temperatures and rotational loads. Jill Albertelli, President of Military Engines at Pratt & Whitney, said additive manufacturing allows the company to move more quickly from concept to operational capability. She added that the experience gained from the TJ150 program is already being applied to other propulsion projects, including the Pratt & Whitney Valox engine family. The company's production strategy focuses on improving manufacturing speed and flexibility, particularly as demand increases for propulsion systems intended for short-duration missions. By reducing the number of individual components and simplifying production, additive manufacturing can help shorten manufacturing timelines while supporting higher production rates. Additive manufacturing builds components layer by layer from digital designs instead of using conventional machining or casting methods. The process provides greater design flexibility, reduces the total number of parts required, and can lower production time and manufacturing costs compared with traditional production methods. Pratt & Whitney said the successful TJ150 demonstration expands its experience with advanced manufacturing technologies and supports its broader efforts to modernize military engine production. As of July 20, 2026, the company is evaluating the next phase of the TJ150 program based on the results of the demonstration testing. Source : prnewswire
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 15:49:34
World
TEL AVIV — Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has officially unveiled ELLYON, a new multi-mission aircraft that combines advanced electronic attack (EA) capabilities with intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition, and reconnaissance (ISTAR) into a single airborne platform. Presented in Tel Aviv on July 20, ELLYON is designed to provide military operators with one aircraft capable of conducting intelligence collection, electronic warfare, and real-time mission coordination. By combining capabilities that traditionally require multiple specialized aircraft, the platform is intended to shorten the intelligence-to-action cycle while supporting stand-off operations from hundreds of kilometers away, reducing exposure to hostile threats. Integrated Intelligence and Mission System ELLYON features an integrated suite of sensors and communication systems, including: Long-range Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) with Ground Moving Target Indication (GMTI) Signals Intelligence (SIGINT) Electro-optical and infrared sensors Wide-band satellite communications (SATCOM) An AI-based mission management system processes data from these sensors, generates actionable intelligence, and rapidly shares it with command centers, ground control stations, and other aircraft operating in the mission area. Electronic Attack Capabilities The aircraft is designed to conduct electronic attack missions across the electromagnetic spectrum. According to IAI, it can perform radar jamming and communications jamming simultaneously during a single mission, enabling it to disrupt both airborne threats and ground-based integrated air defense systems. ELLYON also includes a self-protection suite with automated threat detection, early warning systems, and electronic countermeasures to enhance survivability during operations. Flexible Aircraft Integration IAI developed ELLYON as a platform-agnostic system that can be integrated onto various large commercial business jet airframes based on customer requirements. The platform also incorporates technologies from IAI ELTA's existing airborne intelligence and electronic warfare programs, including sensor miniaturization, advanced algorithms, and AI-based software. Statements from IAI Boaz Levy, Chairman of the Board at IAI, said the company has long experience in developing intelligence aircraft and that ELLYON brings together intelligence collection, electronic attack, and AI-driven mission management in a single platform. "IAI has been at the forefront of developing advanced intelligence aircraft, combining technological innovation and operational expertise. ELLYON continues this legacy by integrating advanced intelligence collection, Electronic Attack and AI-driven mission management into a single platform, providing a decisive operational advantage in evolving battlespace." Dror Bar, CEO of ELTA Systems and Executive Vice President at IAI, said the aircraft combines stand-off operations with the ability to sense, understand, and influence the electromagnetic environment. "ELLYON represents a technological leap forward, combining stand-off operations with the ability to sense, understand and shape the electromagnetic battlespace. ELLYON shortens intelligence-to-action cycles and enhances freedom of action in the most demanding operational environments." ELLYON joins IAI ELTA's family of special-mission intelligence aircraft, which the company said have accumulated extensive operational experience supporting air defense and intelligence missions with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and international partners.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 15:39:12
U.S
FARNBOROUGH, England — Lockheed Martin has introduced the MORFIUS X-Rotor, a reusable airborne counter-drone system designed to defeat large groups of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using high-power microwave (HPM) technology. The system was unveiled at the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow as the company expands its counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) portfolio to address the increasing use of drone swarms on modern battlefields. According to Lockheed Martin, the ground-launched MORFIUS X-Rotor can neutralize more than 50 enemy drones during a single flight by emitting bursts of high-power microwave energy that disrupt or disable the electronics of multiple UAVs simultaneously. Unlike conventional air defense systems that rely on single-use interceptor missiles, the MORFIUS X-Rotor is designed to be recovered after a mission and reused, reducing the cost of countering low-cost drone threats. The MORFIUS™ X-Rotor is a portable, cost‑effective counter‑drone system that can neutralize up to 50 enemy drones in a single mission. Designed for rapid reuse and rapid deployment. pic.twitter.com/J3tvFrgkuf — Lockheed Martin (@LockheedMartin) July 20, 2026 The company said the system follows a "one-to-many" engagement approach, allowing a single platform to engage multiple drones in one mission instead of using individual interceptors against each target. This is intended to help military forces respond more efficiently to large drone swarms while lowering the cost per engagement. High-Power Microwave Counter-Drone Capability The MORFIUS X-Rotor carries a lightweight high-power microwave payload that is activated once the system reaches its target area. The microwave energy disables the electronic systems of multiple drones without relying on explosive warheads or kinetic interceptors. Lockheed Martin said the system is designed to be sensor and command-and-control agnostic, allowing it to integrate with a wide range of existing military sensors and command networks. It does not require dedicated fire-control radars or proprietary guidance systems, making it compatible with existing air defense architectures. "MORFIUS sets a new benchmark for counter-drone capability—delivering a high kill rate while keeping the cost per kill low," said Randy Crites, Vice President and General Manager of Advanced Programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "By leveraging a lightweight, field-reusable high-power microwave architecture, we provide the most effective, low-cost solution on the market today," he added. Built on Years of Development The MORFIUS X-Rotor is the latest version of Lockheed Martin's MORFIUS high-power microwave program, which the company has been developing and testing since 2017. The X-Rotor builds on earlier MORFIUS variants while introducing an updated design focused on improving performance against drone swarms. Lockheed Martin said the microwave technology is intended to disable hardened electronic targets while minimizing collateral damage, providing a non-kinetic option for countering unmanned aerial threats. Testing and Prototype Production The company has completed a series of demonstrations and evaluations in Arizona, California, and Oklahoma, where the system's flight performance, target interception capability, and overall effectiveness were assessed. Lockheed Martin is now accelerating prototype production of both the MORFIUS X-Rotor platform and its high-power microwave payload. Additional flight tests are planned as the company continues development toward operational deployment. Supporting Counter-Drone Requirements Lockheed Martin said the MORFIUS X-Rotor aligns with the U.S. Department of Defense's 2025–2028 Rapid Response Counter-UAS Roadmap, which emphasizes affordable, scalable, and rapidly deployable solutions to counter increasingly capable drone threats. The company also released demonstration videos showing the MORFIUS X-Rotor engaging simulated drone swarms. As drone technology continues to evolve, the reusable high-power microwave system is intended to complement existing layered air defense systems by providing a non-kinetic capability against multiple unmanned aerial threats in a single mission.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 15:24:13
U.S
PASCAGOULA, Miss. — The U.S. Navy's stealth destroyer USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) is in the final stages of a major modernization program that will transform the ship into a platform for long-range hypersonic weapons. Recent images from Bloomberg Television's YouTube video published on July 18, 2026, and analyzed by X account @lfx160219, show several visible external modifications made during the ship's refit at Huntington Ingalls Industries' Ingalls Shipbuilding facility in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The Navy expects USS Zumwalt to officially return to service in September 2026 after completing its modernization work. Major External Changes Visible The latest images highlight several significant structural modifications made to prepare the destroyer for its new role with the Intermediate-Range Conventional Prompt Strike (IR CPS) hypersonic missile system. The most noticeable change is the removal of the ship's forward 155mm Advanced Gun System (AGS) turret. In its place, engineers have installed four large missile launch tubes protected by a newly designed wave-deflector structure. The ship's No. 2 AGS turret at the aft has also been removed, leaving only the stealth gun housing in its original position. Another visible modification is the addition of a new mounting base for the FLIR 380HD electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor system, which is expected to improve the ship's surveillance and targeting capabilities. Engineers have also relocated the gas turbine air intakes lower on the hull to help prevent the engines from drawing in exhaust gases from the ship's funnels. From Naval Gunfire Support to Hypersonic Strike The modernization represents a major shift in the Zumwalt class's mission. The destroyers were originally designed around two 155mm Advanced Gun Systems to provide long-range naval gunfire support during amphibious operations. However, the program faced a major setback after the specialized Long-Range Land Attack Projectile (LRLAP) became too expensive for operational use, with each round costing approximately $800,000. To address this issue, the Navy removed the AGS mounts and installed Advanced Payload Modules, allowing the space previously occupied by the gun magazines to be used for the IR CPS hypersonic missile system. Each Zumwalt-class destroyer is planned to carry 12 Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) missiles. Modernization Program and Delays The Navy's Build Yard Modernization Period (BYMP) for USS Zumwalt began in 2023 and is currently running about 10 months behind its original schedule. According to government oversight reports and program officials, much of the delay resulted from additional work required during installation of the new missile launch system. Contractors had to remove significantly more cabling than originally expected from the ship's forward section before the new launch tubes could be installed. The complexity of the destroyer's 78-megawatt Integrated Power System also contributed to the engineering challenges during the refit. A July 2026 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report also stated that the broader program to equip the Navy's three Zumwalt-class destroyers with hypersonic weapons is running about two years behind schedule, citing integration challenges, additional cabling work, reliability concerns, and missile production timelines. Hypersonic Missile Testing Ahead Following its expected return to service in September 2026, USS Zumwalt will serve as the U.S. Navy's primary sea-based test platform for the Intermediate-Range Conventional Prompt Strike weapon. The ship is expected to conduct the first at-sea test launch of the baseline IR CPS hypersonic missile system by June 2027. The missile uses a two-stage rocket booster to deploy an unpowered hypersonic glide vehicle capable of traveling at speeds above Mach 5. An enhanced version of the IR CPS featuring anti-ship capability is planned for testing before September 2030, further expanding the Zumwalt's long-range maritime strike role. Wider Zumwalt-Class Modernization Modernization work is also planned or underway for the Navy's other two Zumwalt-class destroyers—USS Michael Monsoor (DDG-1001) and USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG-1002). In addition to integrating hypersonic weapons, the Navy is making other modifications to the class, including converting ballast tanks into additional fuel storage to increase operational range and endurance for longer deployments. With its expected return to service in September 2026, USS Zumwalt will become the first U.S. Navy surface combatant prepared to support operational testing of the Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missile system, marking the next phase of the Navy's effort to field long-range hypersonic strike capability at sea.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 15:13:36
World
AMMAN, Jordan — Newly released commercial satellite imagery has provided a clearer picture of the damage at Jordan's Muwaffaq al-Salti Air Base, indicating that the Iranian missile strike caused more extensive damage than initially reported. 🚨Satellite imagery gives us a better look of the full damage at Muwaffaq al-Salti Air Base, Jordan.Low-res previews from July 19 (SV NEO-1) show the base was hit again. Two hangars struck, a major impact is visible in the housing area, and multiple shelters were destroyed. pic.twitter.com/vNZ9Z1M1Ju — Soar (@SoarAtlas) July 20, 2026 Satellite imagery published by Solar Atlas and captured by the SV NEO-1 commercial satellite on July 19 shows multiple impact sites across the air base, including aircraft hangars, drone facilities and troop housing. The imagery provides one of the clearest publicly available views of the strike and its effects on the installation. Satellite Imagery Shows Multiple Impact Areas The July 19 imagery shows that the base was struck in several locations. At least two aircraft hangars were hit, while multiple aircraft and drone shelters across the installation appear to have been destroyed. The imagery also shows a major impact in the U.S. troop housing area, where American service members were killed during the attack. 🛰 Significantly more damage is visible at Muwaffaq al-Salti Air Base in Jordan.The base was not struck by a single missile but by what appears to have been a large, highly accurate salvo.Another hangar on the ISR/CAS apron was hit, while a major impact is visible in the… https://t.co/d7wUGImjxL pic.twitter.com/QM5U6LnHjV — Egypt's Intel Observer (@EGYOSINT) July 20, 2026 Independent open-source intelligence group Egypt's Intel Observer (EGYOSINT), which reviewed the imagery, assessed that the pattern of impacts indicates the base was struck by what appears to have been a large, highly accurate missile salvo rather than a single missile. According to the group, another hangar on the base's Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance/Close Air Support (ISR/CAS) apron was also hit, suggesting multiple operational areas were targeted during the strike. Drone Hangars Sustain Heavy Damage EGYOSINT's assessment identified extensive damage around 31°49'53"N, 36°47'29"E, where three drone hangars previously associated with U.S. MQ-9 Reaper operations appear to have been heavily damaged or destroyed. 🛰 🇯🇴🇺🇸 Before-and-after GIF of Iranian satellite imagery provides a closer look at the extensive damage to three drone hangars (31°49'53"N, 36°47'29"E) at Muwaffaq al-Salti AB.At least one U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone also appears to have been damaged by missile shrapnel. https://t.co/dIvYfKxc4Q pic.twitter.com/nzmQvr4CsM — Egypt's Intel Observer (@EGYOSINT) July 20, 2026 The imagery also indicates that at least one U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone appears to have sustained missile shrapnel damage. The assessment is based on commercially available satellite imagery and remains part of ongoing open-source analysis. Earlier commercial satellite imagery captured around July 10 had already shown damage to newly constructed hangars within the U.S.-operated section of the base. The latest imagery provides a more complete assessment of the strike's impact across the installation. U.S. Casualties Confirmed The satellite imagery also shows severe damage in the troop housing area, consistent with official casualty reports released after the attack. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), Iranian ballistic missiles and drones targeted Muwaffaq al-Salti Air Base on July 17. The attack killed two U.S. service members, while another service member was initially reported missing. Four additional U.S. personnel were injured and later discharged from Jordanian hospitals after receiving treatment. U.S. officials also confirmed that unidentified remains were recovered from the site. Strategic Role of Muwaffaq al-Salti Air Base Located approximately 100 kilometers east of Amman, Muwaffaq al-Salti Air Base serves as a key hub for U.S. and coalition air operations in the Middle East. The base supports intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions, drone operations, logistics and fighter aircraft deployments, including MQ-9 Reaper drones and aircraft such as the F-15E Strike Eagle and F-16 Fighting Falcon. Iranian Claims and Ongoing Assessment The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) claimed responsibility for the strike, stating that it used precision ballistic missiles, including the Khyber-Shakan, to target U.S. command-and-control facilities and aircraft storage areas. Jordanian authorities initially reported that air defense systems intercepted several incoming missiles. However, the latest commercial satellite imagery published by Solar Atlas, together with independent analysis by EGYOSINT, indicates that multiple projectiles reached the base and struck military infrastructure. Open-source analysts continue to examine newly available imagery to determine the full extent of the damage. Additional high-resolution commercial satellite imagery may provide further confirmation of damaged facilities and equipment. As of July 20, 2026, assessments remain ongoing. The latest satellite imagery provides the clearest publicly available visual evidence of the strike, allowing independent observers to compare the physical damage with official statements and better understand the impact on one of the region's most important U.S.-supported air bases.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 14:40:07
U.S
WASHINGTON / DUBAI — The United States carried out a ninth consecutive night of airstrikes against Iranian military installations, continuing its campaign to reduce Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz as regional tensions continue to escalate. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said it successfully completed the ninth consecutive evening of strikes at 10 p.m. ET on July 19. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the three-hour operation targeted military command centers, integrated air defense systems, coastal surveillance sites, communications networks, maritime capabilities, and missile and drone launch positions in southern Iran. CENTCOM said the strikes were intended to reduce Iran's capability to attack commercial vessels and civilian mariners transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The operation is part of a broader U.S. air and maritime campaign that has struck more than 140 Iranian military targets since the latest phase of the conflict began. It also supports the renewed U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports following the collapse of a 60-day interim cessation arrangement reached in June. Campaign Targets Command Network The U.S. campaign is focused on disrupting the command-and-control network that coordinates attacks on merchant shipping rather than targeting only individual missile launchers or drones. Military targets have included communications centers, command headquarters, coastal observation posts, radar systems, IRGC naval infrastructure, and facilities supporting missile and drone operations. Explosions were reported in several Iranian locations, including Tabriz, Bushehr, Chabahar, and Bandar Mahshahr. Coastal military facilities around Bandar Abbas, Jask, Konarak, Abu Musa, and Greater Tunb have also been targeted to reduce radar coverage and anti-ship missile capabilities. The operations rely on surveillance aircraft, satellites, and electronic intelligence systems to identify military targets and assess strike results. The sustained campaign has reportedly forced Iranian units to relocate launch systems more frequently and reduce radio communications. Strait of Hormuz Remains the Focus The Strait of Hormuz, about 34 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, carries around 20 percent of global oil shipments and a significant share of Qatar's liquefied natural gas exports. To support maritime security, the U.S. has expanded its naval presence in the region. During the first blockade from April 13 to June 18, U.S. forces redirected more than 140 vessels and disabled nine. Since the blockade resumed, CENTCOM said that by July 19 it had redirected six commercial vessels and disabled one. Operations are supported by the destroyers USS John Finn and USS Donald Cook, while Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit have conducted inspections of commercial vessels. On July 15 near Kharg Island, U.S. forces used Hellfire missiles to disable the tanker M/T Belma by striking its smokestack, stopping the vessel without damaging its cargo tanks. On July 20, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a vessel caught fire and drifted about eight nautical miles northwest of Kumzar, Oman, after being struck by an unidentified projectile. The crew abandoned the ship and was rescued by a tug. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also claimed that two oil tankers attempting to use the southern shipping route were immobilized after explosions. Regional Attacks Continue Iran has continued missile and drone attacks against U.S. positions and partner nations across the region. The United States has confirmed that 17 service members have been killed since the conflict escalated. On July 17, an Iranian ballistic missile and drone attack in Jordan killed two U.S. service members. The remains of a third service member, previously reported missing, were later recovered. On July 18, another U.S. service member was killed and one was injured in northern Iraq during the controlled disposal of an unexploded Iranian drone. Iranian attacks have also prompted missile interceptions over Jordan, while Kuwait activated its air defense systems following drone attacks on a power generation and desalination facility. In Bahrain, home to the U.S. Fifth Fleet, warning sirens sounded after the U.S. Embassy warned of potential Iranian strikes near central Manama. Oil Prices Rise The conflict has continued to affect global energy markets. Brent crude oil rose above $91 per barrel, while the average price of regular gasoline in the United States returned to about $4 per gallon. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran was attempting to use the Strait of Hormuz as leverage and called on international partners to help protect freedom of navigation. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said maintaining the uninterrupted flow of oil and natural gas through the strait remains a key U.S. objective. Military operations continue as the United States seeks to reduce Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping through one of the world's most important maritime trade routes, while Iran continues to rely on dispersed mobile missile and drone systems to sustain its operations. Source : CENTCOM
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 14:05:18
U.S
FARNBOROUGH, England — U.S. defense technology company X-Bow Systems has introduced Buckler, a new low-cost interceptor designed to defeat Group 3 drones at supersonic speeds. Unveiled at the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow, the company said the system is intended to provide an affordable and scalable air defense option as militaries face increasing drone threats. According to X-Bow Systems, Buckler is priced at less than US$100,000 per interceptor, making it significantly less expensive than many traditional air defense interceptors. The company said the system is designed to help address the growing challenge of countering large numbers of lower-cost drones and cruise missiles without relying on high-cost interceptors for every engagement. The interceptor is based on an in-house developed airframe and propulsion system, with X-Bow manufacturing its airframe, solid rocket motor, and propellant internally. The company said this vertically integrated production approach provides greater control over costs, product quality, and manufacturing capacity while reducing dependence on external suppliers. X-Bow founder and Chief Executive Officer Jason Hundley said the system was developed to address the changing economics of modern air defense. "You can't win a war of attrition trading million-dollar interceptors against thousand-dollar threats," Hundley said. "Buckler has flown, it comes in under US$100,000, and we build its airframe and propulsion ourselves — the part of the industrial base that is so stressed by today's munitions demands. This is our answer to the call from the U.S. and its allies: affordable capability, at scale." Focus on Affordable Air Defense The company said Buckler is intended to provide armed forces with a practical option for defending against Group 3 unmanned aerial systems (UAS), which are larger drones capable of carrying heavier payloads and operating at greater ranges than smaller tactical drones. The growing use of relatively inexpensive drones in recent conflicts has highlighted the high cost of using advanced interceptors against low-cost aerial threats. X-Bow said Buckler is designed to help reduce this cost imbalance by enabling forces to deploy larger numbers of interceptors while managing defense budgets more effectively. A key part of the program is X-Bow's in-house production of solid rocket motors (SRMs), which the company identified as one of the main bottlenecks in the current defense industrial supply chain. By manufacturing the critical propulsion components internally, X-Bow said it can increase production more rapidly when required. The company added that its manufacturing network includes both fixed production facilities and deployable manufacturing units. According to X-Bow, these production methods are already being used across several other defense programs, demonstrating their ability to support larger-scale manufacturing. Flight Testing Completed The launch of Buckler follows a successful flight test that validated the interceptor's propulsion system and overall flight performance. X-Bow said the flight demonstration was supported by earlier ground testing, including motor static-fire and igniter tests. According to the company, these milestones indicate that Buckler has progressed beyond the concept stage and is now a flight-tested system. X-Bow is presenting Buckler to the U.S. military and allied nations seeking cost-effective ways to strengthen air defenses against increasing drone and cruise missile threats. The company said the interceptor is designed to be produced in larger quantities to meet operational requirements while maintaining a lower unit cost. Source : prnewswire
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 13:54:01
World
TEHRAN / WASHINGTON — Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has claimed it recovered a Polish-built Tiguar-M tactical unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) after it was allegedly shot down over southern Iran. Images released by the IRGC Ground Forces' 48th Fath Brigade show the recovered aircraft in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province. According to Iranian officials, the drone was operated by the U.S. Army. However, neither the U.S. Department of Defense nor independent Western sources have confirmed the claim, and the exact operator of the aircraft has not been independently verified. The drone shown in the released photographs has been identified as the Tiguar-M, a tactical UAV developed by Warsaw-based uAvionics. The platform received wider public attention earlier this year after it was used by U.S. Army Special Forces during Exercise Balikatan 2026 in the Philippines. Between April 20 and 24, soldiers from the U.S. Army's 1st Special Forces Group (Green Berets) tested the Tiguar-M in Laoag, Philippines, with the exercise focusing on the drone's long-range communication capabilities in areas with limited infrastructure. Images from that exercise showed at least one aircraft equipped with a modified satellite communication system similar to the configuration seen on the recovered drone displayed by the IRGC. Photographs released by Iranian authorities appear to show the UAV fitted with an improvised Starlink or Starshield satellite communications terminal mounted on the fuselage. The field modification would allow beyond-line-of-sight communications over long distances. Standard production versions of the Tiguar-M are equipped with a conventional SATCOM antenna. The Tiguar-M is designed as a long-endurance tactical reconnaissance platform. It measures approximately 2.32 meters in length, has a 4.1-meter wingspan, and a maximum takeoff weight of 25 kilograms. Powered by a hybrid propulsion system, the drone has a claimed endurance of more than 20 hours and a maximum range of up to 1,800 kilometers. It can carry up to 11 kilograms of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) payloads, including electro-optical and infrared sensors for day and night operations. The platform also features a triple-redundant flight controller, a recovery parachute, and a modular design that allows it to be transported in compact cases for rapid deployment. According to the manufacturer, it complies with civil aviation standards in Poland and the United States for drones in its weight category and is not subject to certain U.S. export restrictions. Open-source defense analyst Babak Taghvaee of The Crisis Watch has reported on the IRGC's identification of the recovered aircraft as a Tiguar-M. However, visual identification of the drone model alone does not confirm who was operating it at the time it was brought down. BREAKING: The IRGC has released images of a Polish-built Tiguar M UAV allegedly operated by the U.S. Army and shot down over southern Iran by the IRGC Ground Forces' 48th Fath Brigade in Kohgiluyeh and Boyer-Ahmad Province.The Tiguar M is the military version of the… pic.twitter.com/reYaF53PJ6 — Babak Taghvaee - The Crisis Watch (@BabakTaghvaee1) July 19, 2026 If the aircraft was operated by U.S. forces, it would indicate the use of small, relatively low-cost ISR drones for missions such as intelligence gathering, target support, and battle damage assessment. Compared with larger reconnaissance aircraft, platforms such as the Tiguar-M are less expensive to operate and easier to replace while providing persistent surveillance capabilities. The claim comes amid continuing military operations between the United States and Iran. The United States resumed military strikes against Iran on July 8, and by July 17, U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said it had completed a seventh consecutive night of strikes targeting Iranian surveillance facilities, military logistics sites, underground weapons storage locations, and maritime infrastructure using fighter aircraft, drones, warships, and naval forces. Iran has also announced several claimed drone interceptions during the past two weeks. Iranian state media, including IRNA and Tasnim, previously reported that the IRGC Aerospace Force had shot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper over the Ahvaz and Persian Gulf region using a newly deployed air defense system. Those claims have likewise not been confirmed by U.S. officials. At present, the circumstances surrounding the reported recovery of the Tiguar-M remain unverified outside Iranian statements. While the released images appear to show a Tiguar-M UAV, they do not independently establish who operated the aircraft or the circumstances under which it was recovered. Further confirmation from official sources has not yet been provided.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 12:32:33
U.S
FARNBOROUGH, England — On July 20, 2026, Lockheed Martin has announced the development of the PAC-3 Adapted Capability Effector (PAC-3 ACE), a new lower-cost interceptor designed for the Patriot air and missile defense system. The announcement was made on Monday during the Farnborough International Airshow, with the company saying the new missile is intended to help the United States and allied nations strengthen their air defense capabilities while reducing interceptor costs. According to Lockheed Martin, the PAC-3 ACE will cost less than half the price of the company's current PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor. U.S. Army budget documents estimate that a single PAC-3 MSE missile costs about $4 million. The lower-cost design is intended to allow military operators to procure larger numbers of interceptors without significantly increasing defense spending. Lockheed Martin expects the PAC-3 ACE to reach initial production within approximately 36 months, a relatively short timeline for a major missile defense program. The company said the accelerated schedule is possible because the interceptor is built using existing Patriot technologies and infrastructure rather than being developed as an entirely new system. Designed to Increase Interceptor Availability The new interceptor has been developed in response to lessons from recent conflicts, where military forces have faced large-scale attacks involving inexpensive drones, rockets, and missiles. Such attacks can force air defense units to use costly interceptors against relatively low-cost threats, creating a significant cost imbalance. The PAC-3 ACE is designed to improve "magazine depth," referring to the number of interceptors that can be purchased, stockpiled, and deployed within available budgets. By lowering the cost of each interceptor, military operators can maintain larger inventories to support sustained air defense operations. Compatible with Existing Patriot Systems The PAC-3 ACE is designed to integrate directly with the existing Patriot weapon system and uses the current PAC-3 fire control system and software. It will also be compatible with the U.S. Army's Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), allowing it to operate within the same digital command network already used by Patriot batteries. Because it relies on existing command-and-control architecture, the interceptor can be introduced without requiring entirely new training programs or logistics systems. This approach is also intended to reduce research and development costs while speeding deployment. Like the PAC-3 MSE, the PAC-3 ACE uses hit-to-kill technology, destroying incoming targets through direct impact instead of using an explosive warhead. According to the company, the interceptor is designed to engage multiple types of aerial threats, including: Air-breathing aircraft Cruise missiles Close-range ballistic missiles Short-range ballistic missiles Production to Include European Partners Lockheed Martin also announced that the PAC-3 ACE will be jointly developed and produced with European industry partners rather than relying solely on U.S.-based manufacturing. The company said this production strategy is intended to strengthen the transatlantic defense industrial base, improve interoperability among NATO allies, and enable partner nations to build interceptor stockpiles closer to home. Distributed manufacturing is also expected to help improve supply chain resilience as demand for air defense systems continues to increase. The announcement follows a broader trend among defense companies to expand munitions production across Europe in cooperation with allied industries. Expanding Air Defense Options The Patriot air defense system has served as a key ground-based air and missile defense platform for the United States and numerous allied nations for decades. While the PAC-3 MSE remains the system's most advanced interceptor, its cost has increased interest in more affordable options that can complement existing capabilities during high-volume engagements. Lockheed Martin has not disclosed the exact unit price of the PAC-3 ACE or the specific engineering changes that enable its lower cost. However, the company said the interceptor's use of proven Patriot technology and existing infrastructure is expected to reduce development costs while allowing production to begin within about three years. The introduction of the PAC-3 ACE reflects growing international demand for cost-effective air defense solutions that can expand interceptor inventories while maintaining compatibility with existing Patriot systems. Source : lockheedmartin
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 11:42:29
World
JAKARTA — Indonesia's Ministry of Defence has confirmed that the former Italian Navy aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi is scheduled to arrive in Indonesian waters on September 20, 2026, marking a major step in the country's naval modernization efforts. The timeline was announced during a meeting with Commission I of the Indonesian House of Representatives on July 20. The government aims to have the carrier in Indonesia before October 5, allowing it to take part in celebrations marking the anniversary of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI). Lampung Selected as Home Port The 180-meter-long carrier will be based at Ratai Bay in Lampung, located at the southern tip of Sumatra facing the strategic Sunda Strait. While the Ministry of Defence and the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) have not publicly explained why Lampung was selected over other naval bases, preparations at the site are progressing. Construction work to support the vessel's arrival is underway, including upgrades to berthing and mooring facilities, dredging to provide sufficient water depth, and improvements to electrical infrastructure. According to the ministry, work on the carrier's berthing area has reached 76% completion. To prepare for the ship's delivery, the Indonesian Navy has also sent 100 personnel to Italy for technical and operational training before they crew the vessel during its voyage to Indonesia. In addition, the navy has established a simulated flight deck at Juanda Naval Air Station in Surabaya to train pilots and flight deck crews. Transfer and Modernization Costs The Giuseppe Garibaldi, which was decommissioned by the Italian Navy in late 2024, is being transferred to Indonesia as a grant under a free cession arrangement approved by the Italian Parliament earlier this year. The transfer is intended to strengthen defence cooperation between Italy and Indonesia. According to the Ministry of Defence, acquiring a used aircraft carrier offers a faster and more affordable option than building a new vessel. The ministry estimates the cost of transporting the ship from Italy to Indonesia at €54 million (around Rp900 billion). However, the refurbishment and modernization program will require a much larger investment. During the parliamentary meeting, Commission I member Tubagus Hasanuddin said upgrade costs could range between Rp7.2 trillion and Rp16.8 trillion (approximately €350 million to €818 million), depending on the combat systems and modernization package selected by the Indonesian Navy. The Ministry of Defence said Indonesian defence companies and domestic shipyards will participate in the retrofit work, with PT PAL Indonesia expected to play a major role. Additional funding has also been approved for helicopters and related support systems. Delivered Without Offensive Weapons Before its transfer, the carrier will have its offensive weapon systems removed. It will retain only the essential propulsion, safety, and habitability systems required for the voyage to Indonesia. After arriving, the vessel is expected to undergo an extensive modernization program, including conversion for helicopter and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations, upgraded command-and-control systems, and other mission equipment. The ship is also expected to receive a new Indonesian Navy name after entering service. Parliamentary Support and Operational Challenges All political parties represented in Commission I expressed support for the acquisition during the July 20 meeting. At the same time, lawmakers highlighted several issues that will require careful planning, including securing long-term funding for maintenance and operations, adapting Indonesia's naval and defence doctrine to operate an aircraft carrier, and ensuring domestic defence industries gain meaningful technology transfer and industrial experience through the modernization program. Expanding Indonesia's Maritime Capabilities Once modernization is complete, the Giuseppe Garibaldi is expected to serve primarily as a command headquarters ship capable of supporting helicopter and UAV operations. The vessel is also planned to support maritime security missions, joint military operations, humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, and logistics across Indonesia's archipelago. The acquisition forms part of Indonesia's broader naval modernization program and closer defence cooperation with Italy. When it enters service, Indonesia is expected to become the second Southeast Asian country to operate a flat-deck aircraft carrier platform after Thailand's HTMS Chakri Naruebet. Source : navalnews
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 11:31:26
Europe
LONDON — The United Kingdom has decided not to proceed with a mid-life upgrade of its Meteor beyond-visual-range (BVRAAM) air-to-air missile, choosing instead to direct investment toward the development of its next-generation Future Air Superiority Effectors (FASE) programme. According to information from the British Ministry of Defence, the Meteor missile will remain in its current configuration and continue in service through routine maintenance rather than undergoing a major modernization programme. The missile is expected to remain operational with the Royal Air Force (RAF) into the 2040s. The decision reflects the UK's strategy of prioritizing future air combat capabilities over incremental upgrades to existing weapons. UK Shifts Investment to Future Air Combat Capabilities On July 3, 2026, UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard confirmed that the government would not continue with the Meteor mid-life upgrade programme. "We are not continuing with the mid-life upgrade of the Meteor. We want to invest in the next generation of capabilities faster than the previous generation of capabilities," Pollard said. Instead of upgrading the current missile, funding is being redirected to the Future Air Superiority Effectors (FASE) programme, which is currently in its pre-concept phase. FASE aims to develop a family of advanced air combat effectors, including a new long-range air-to-air missile capable of engaging targets from extended stand-off distances. The future weapons are expected to be compatible with both manned combat aircraft and future uncrewed air platforms. To support the programme, the United Kingdom and France signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on April 1, 2026, launching a 12-month joint study. The study will examine future air combat threats, evaluate emerging missile technologies, and establish a roadmap for the development of a successor to the Meteor missile. Meteor to Remain in RAF Service into the 2040s Although the mid-life upgrade has been cancelled, the Meteor missile will continue to play a key role in the RAF's air combat capability. The missile entered RAF service in 2018 on the Eurofighter Typhoon, where it serves as the service's primary beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile. Production of the missile is expected to continue to meet operational requirements, while support will focus on routine maintenance rather than extensive modernization. The F-35B Lightning II is expected to become the second RAF aircraft equipped with the Meteor under the fighter's Block 4 upgrade programme, with integration expected in the early 2030s. The missile has already completed successful flight tests on the F-35B, while ground integration work is continuing for the F-35A variant. Meteor Programme and Technical Features The Meteor missile is developed by MBDA through a multinational European programme involving the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, France, Sweden, and Spain. It is currently in operational service with partner nations on the Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale, and Saab Gripen, while integration is also underway for the F-35A, F-35B, and South Korea's KF-21 fighter aircraft. One of the Meteor's defining features is its solid-fuel variable-flow ducted rocket (ramjet) propulsion system. Unlike conventional rocket motors that provide thrust only during the initial phase of flight, the ramjet delivers controlled thrust throughout the missile's flight, enabling it to maintain energy until interception and providing a large no-escape zone against maneuvering targets. The missile uses an active radio-frequency (RF) seeker for all-weather engagements and combines inertial mid-course guidance with autonomous terminal guidance. A two-way data link allows it to receive updated target information during flight, including data from third-party platforms, supporting network-enabled air combat operations. Meteor carries a blast-fragmentation warhead equipped with both impact and RF proximity fuses to increase the probability of destroying its target. The missile weighs approximately 190 kilograms, measures 3.7 metres in length, has a 178-millimetre diameter, and supports both rail and ejection launch methods, allowing integration across multiple fighter aircraft. Focus Turns to the FASE Programme The Future Air Superiority Effectors (FASE) programme is intended to deliver a new generation of air-to-air weapons capable of addressing future threats, including advanced combat aircraft, increasingly sophisticated missiles, and evolving electronic warfare systems. The ongoing UK-France study will help define future operational requirements, assess enabling technologies, and establish a development roadmap for the new missile family. While some Meteor partner nations, including Germany, have expressed interest in pursuing modernization of the existing missile, the United Kingdom has chosen to concentrate its resources on developing a successor alongside France. For the foreseeable future, the Meteor will continue to meet the RAF's long-range air combat requirements while the FASE programme advances toward the next generation of air superiority weapons for the Eurofighter Typhoon, F-35B, and future combat aircraft. Source : militarywatchmagazine
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-19 16:39:03
Space & Technology
NEW DELHI — Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) has successfully designed, manufactured, and tested India's first indigenous 1200 kV Ultra High Voltage Alternating Current (UHVAC) transformer, marking a significant milestone in the country's power transmission sector and supporting the government's "Make in India" initiative. The newly developed single-phase auto transformer has a capacity of 333 MVA with a voltage rating of 1150/400/33 kV. BHEL said the transformer was designed and manufactured entirely using its in-house research and development capabilities. Following successful type testing to international standards, India has joined a small group of countries with the capability to manufacture equipment for the 1200 kV AC transmission class. Developed Using Indigenous Technology According to BHEL, the project was completed after nearly two years of engineering design optimization, material evaluation, and testing to meet global performance and reliability standards. The company noted that design parameters and manufacturing technologies for 1200 kV transmission equipment are among the most closely guarded in the global power equipment industry, with very limited technology transfer available internationally. To meet the stringent quality requirements, the transformer was manufactured in a dust-free, climate-controlled transformer production facility at BHEL's plant in Bhopal, ensuring structural precision and electrical reliability. To Be Installed at India's 1200 kV National Test Station The transformer was developed under a collaborative program with the Power Grid Corporation of India (PowerGrid) and is scheduled for installation at the 1200 kV National Test Station in Bina, Madhya Pradesh. The test station was established by PowerGrid to evaluate domestically developed ultra-high-voltage transmission equipment under real operating conditions before potential commercial deployment. At present, India's highest commercial AC transmission voltage is 765 kV. The introduction of 1200 kV transmission technology represents the next stage of grid development, enabling the transfer of significantly larger amounts of electricity over long distances with lower transmission losses. Such ultra-high-voltage transmission systems are designed to transport electricity efficiently from large power generation centers to major demand regions while improving overall grid efficiency. Comparison with Global UHVAC Transformer Programs Although India's new transformer operates at the 1200 kV voltage class, the highest AC transmission voltage level tested globally, several countries have developed higher-capacity transformers for their ultra-high-voltage transmission networks. Japan Japan's Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) was among the earliest organizations to develop ultra-high-voltage AC technology through its 1100 kV UHVAC program. The project used a 3000 MVA transformer bank, consisting of three individual 1000 MVA single-phase auto transformers, for experimental high-capacity transmission. China China operates the world's largest commercial 1000 kV UHVAC transmission network. Manufacturers including China XD Group and SPECO-Toshiba have developed ultra-high-voltage transformers with capacities ranging from 1000 MVA to 1200 MVA per unit, supporting long-distance transmission across multiple provinces. Russia (Former USSR) The former Soviet Union was an early pioneer in ultra-high-voltage AC transmission, constructing more than 2,300 kilometers of 1150 kV transmission lines. The program demonstrated the technical feasibility of long-distance ultra-high-voltage power transmission using specially designed high-capacity single-phase transformers. BHEL's Transformer in Global Context BHEL's newly developed transformer is rated at 333 MVA per single-phase unit. In a standard three-phase substation configuration, three such transformers would operate together as a transformer bank with a combined capacity of approximately 1000 MVA, placing India's overall system capacity in line with comparable ultra-high-voltage installations used internationally. Technical Comparison Country AC Voltage Level Transformer Capacity Status India (BHEL) 1200 kV 333 MVA per phase (~1000 MVA three-phase bank) Successfully tested; scheduled for installation China 1000 kV 1000–1200 MVA per unit Commercially deployed Japan 1100 kV 1000 MVA per phase (3000 MVA bank) Experimental development Russia (Former USSR) 1150 kV High-capacity custom single-phase transformers Historical deployment Strengthening India's Power Equipment Capability The successful development of the indigenous 1200 kV UHVAC transformer expands India's domestic manufacturing capability for advanced power transmission infrastructure. The achievement reduces dependence on imported ultra-high-voltage equipment and provides an indigenous technological foundation for future expansion of next-generation transmission systems if higher-voltage networks are adopted in the country. With successful testing completed, the transformer's installation at the National Test Station in Bina will support further evaluation of India's domestically developed 1200 kV transmission technology under field conditions.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-19 16:30:54Search
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