Europe
FARNBOROUGH, UK — The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has awarded BAE Systems a £708 million contract to continue developing critical technologies for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), strengthening the United Kingdom's contribution to the multinational sixth-generation combat aircraft programme. Announced during the Farnborough International Airshow, the contract supports the UK's national Future Combat Air System (FCAS) programme and builds on work carried out since 2018 under Team Tempest. BAE Systems to Lead UK Technology Development Under the agreement, BAE Systems will continue as the UK's lead system integrator for GCAP. The company will work with Leonardo UK, MBDA UK, Rolls-Royce, the Ministry of Defence, and the wider UK supply chain to develop and integrate key national technologies. The work includes advanced software, artificial intelligence, digital networks, digital engineering, physical infrastructure, and advanced manufacturing technologies such as robotics, augmented reality, and additive manufacturing. Contract Covers Broader Future Combat Air System The funding extends beyond the development of the UK's sixth-generation crewed fighter, Tempest, and also supports the wider Future Combat Air System. BAE Systems will carry out operational analysis and concept development for an integrated combat air system that includes advanced weapons networks and uncrewed air systems (UAS). The announcement also coincided with the unveiling of Brontanax, BAE Systems' autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft prototype designed to operate alongside crewed aircraft, including Tempest and the Eurofighter Typhoon. Builds on Team Tempest Programme The contract continues work that began in 2018 through Team Tempest, a partnership comprising BAE Systems, Leonardo UK, MBDA UK, Rolls-Royce, and the UK Ministry of Defence. According to the MoD, the programme currently supports around 4,500 people involved in researching, evaluating, and developing future combat air capabilities. The nationwide supply chain includes approximately 600 British-based companies and academic institutions, with around 90% of the jobs located outside London and the South East. A significant portion of the design and assembly work is carried out at BAE Systems' facilities in Warton and Samlesbury, Lancashire. Part of Wider UK Investment in GCAP The £708 million contract forms part of the UK government's wider commitment of £8.6 billion to the Global Combat Air Programme over the next four years. Since 2018, the UK government has invested more than £5 billion in the domestic Future Combat Air System programme. The award specifically funds UK sovereign technologies and complements the broader GCAP partnership between the United Kingdom, Italy, and Japan. It also follows the recently announced £4.6 billion contract awarded to the Edgewing joint venture to support the programme through the end of 2027. Officials Highlight Long-Term Benefits Richard Berthon, Director of Future Combat Air at the Ministry of Defence, said the investment secures the UK's freedom of action to ensure the armed forces remain equipped for future threats. Declan Holland, Managing Director of Future Combat Air Systems at BAE Systems, said the contract builds on progress across the UK's defence sector and brings together industry and academic partners to advance next-generation combat air technologies. Programme Continues Toward 2035 Service Entry The announcement also follows Canada's confirmation as the first Observer Nation to join the GCAP partnership. Meanwhile, development of the UK's combat air demonstrator continues at BAE Systems' facilities in Samlesbury and Warton, where the aircraft is in final assembly. The demonstrator is expected to make its first flight by the end of 2027, while the full GCAP combat aircraft remains on track to enter service in 2035. Source : baesystems
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 16:18:43
Europe
FARNBOROUGH, England — BAE Systems has officially unveiled Brontanax, the United Kingdom's first domestically designed uncrewed autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), during the Farnborough International Airshow. Named Brontanax, a title derived from the Ancient Greek words for "thunder" and "king," the aircraft has been developed to operate alongside crewed combat aircraft, expanding frontline capabilities while reducing risk to pilots. BAE Systems described the platform as an operational prototype rather than a technology demonstrator. The company said Brontanax is designed to increase "combat mass" at a significantly lower cost than traditional fighter aircraft. It is intended to work alongside existing crewed platforms, including the Eurofighter Typhoon, under the control of either a mission commander or a Typhoon pilot. Designed for Frontline Support Brontanax is approximately the size of a BAE Systems Hawk jet trainer and has been developed to carry out multiple frontline support missions. Its planned roles include electronic warfare, where it can disrupt and degrade enemy communications and radar systems, and precision strike missions against both airborne and ground-based targets. The aircraft also features an open architecture and modular design, allowing capabilities to be updated as operational requirements evolve. Developed by FalconWorks The aircraft was designed and built by FalconWorks, BAE Systems' advanced projects division, at the company's Warton facility in Lancashire. According to BAE Systems, development has been funded through the company's own research and development investment. More than 500 BAE Systems employees contributed to the programme alongside over 75 UK aerospace companies and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The company also stated that the programme draws on more than 25 years of experience in uncrewed and autonomous systems development. Testing and Future Plans Following its public debut at Farnborough, Brontanax is being prepared for ground-based testing at the Warton facility. Flight testing in UK airspace is scheduled to begin in 2027, and the aircraft is also expected to participate in a NATO exercise in 2027. BAE Systems said it aims for Brontanax to be available for military service before the end of the decade. Linked to UK's Storm Fighter Programme The unveiling comes after the UK Government published its Defence Investment Plan, which includes a £300 million commitment to the Storm Fighter sovereign autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft programme. The investment is intended to support the UK's domestic development of autonomous combat aircraft and strengthen the country's defence industrial capability. UK Defence Secretary Wes Streeting, who attended the unveiling, described Brontanax as an important achievement for British engineering and manufacturing. "Built at BAE Systems in Warton by British engineers, backed by British businesses large and small, this aircraft demonstrates that the UK has the skills, the technology and the determination to lead the world in combat air power," Streeting said. He added that the government's £300 million investment would help accelerate the development of autonomous combat aircraft in the UK. RAF Vision Air Chief Marshal Sir Harv Smyth, Chief of the Air Staff, said Collaborative Combat Aircraft are a key element of the Royal Air Force's future force structure. According to Smyth, the RAF aims to become "Europe's first sixth-generation air force" by integrating crewed and uncrewed aircraft to improve survivability and combat effectiveness in increasingly complex operational environments. BAE Systems said Brontanax has been developed to support human-machine teaming by extending the reach and capability of crewed aircraft while reducing risk to pilots. The company has also stated that the aircraft is designed with strong stealth characteristics and aims to deliver around 70–80% of the capability of a traditional fighter aircraft at significantly lower cost, potentially less than 25% of the cost of a crewed platform. Further details on the aircraft's payloads, performance and future production plans are expected as the flight test programme progresses. Source : baesystems
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 16:02:08
Europe
LONDON — BAE Systems has unveiled BlackThorn, a new family of modular, multi-role warheads developed for autonomous systems, loitering munitions, counter-drone interceptors, missiles, and other low-cost weapon platforms. The system was introduced during the Farnborough International Airshow 2026, held from 20 to 24 July. Designed around a common modular architecture, BlackThorn enables manufacturers to integrate the same warhead family across multiple weapon platforms without developing a new warhead for each system. The design allows users to select the required caliber and terminal effect based on mission requirements. Modular Design Across Multiple Calibers The BlackThorn family is available in 40 mm, 70 mm, and 120 mm caliber options, with the largest variant having an actual diameter of 127 mm. The 40 mm version is intended for small unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), mini-missiles, and compact interceptor systems. According to BAE Systems, it measures 96 mm in length and weighs approximately 0.35–0.37 kg, depending on configuration. The 70 mm variant is designed for larger platforms, including attack helicopters, maritime autonomous systems, and larger strike drones. It measures 186 mm in length and weighs between 2.2 kg and 2.35 kg. The 127 mm variant is available in lengths ranging from 225 mm to 305 mm and weighs between 3.25 kg and 12.4 kg, depending on the selected configuration. All BlackThorn variants share a common platform-agnostic architecture and incorporate electronic safety and arming systems. Multiple Warhead Effects The modular family supports several warhead effects, including blast, enhanced fragmentation, explosively formed penetrator (EFP) for anti-armor missions, and multi-effect shaped charge configurations. This approach enables a single warhead family to engage a wide range of targets while reducing the requirement to stock multiple specialized munitions. According to BAE Systems, the warheads are currently in low-rate initial production for testing and evaluation at the company's Glascoed facility in Wales. The company said the development process combined modeling, simulation, digital engineering, and testing, supported by its experience in warhead design, energetic materials, and fuzing technology. Frankenburg Technologies Becomes First Customer BAE Systems also announced that Frankenburg Technologies, an Estonia-based defense company operating across the United Kingdom and Europe, has become the first customer for the BlackThorn family. The company selected the 40 mm enhanced fragmentation variant for integration into its Mark I short-range air defense missile. Mark I Interceptor Specifications The Mark I is a compact, solid-fuel interceptor designed to engage Class I, II, and III unmanned aerial systems. According to Frankenburg Technologies, the missile: Measures 660 mm in length. Has a 60 mm diameter. Weighs under 2 kg at launch. Can intercept targets at distances of up to 2 km. Can engage targets at altitudes of up to 1,500 meters. Is designed to intercept propeller-driven drones flying at 150–200 km/h and jet-powered drones traveling at 400–650 km/h. Uses fire-and-forget guidance and proximity fuzing. The company aims to manufacture approximately 100 missiles per day, or around 10,000 missiles annually. Frankenburg Technologies has also secured a UK Ministry of Defence contract to establish domestic manufacturing capacity under the Low-Cost Air Defence Effectors program. Partnership Reflects Broader Procurement Trend The collaboration between BAE Systems and Frankenburg Technologies reflects a broader trend in European defense procurement, where established defense manufacturers are partnering with newer companies to accelerate the development and production of military systems. Company Statements Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of BAE Systems Maritime and Land Defence Solutions, said: "BlackThorn combines decades of expertise in warhead design, energetic materials and fuzing with our proven experience in delivering high-volume munitions to demonstrate a new way of thinking about payloads for a range of platforms that meet the demands of the modern battlefield. This innovation provides an advanced, affordable solution that meets the evolving needs of our customers." Dan Hallett, Managing Director of Frankenburg Technologies UK, said: "Frankenburg was founded to deliver affordable mass at the speed demanded by modern warfare. Our collaboration with BAE Systems brings together advanced UK warhead technology and low-cost missile manufacturing to create a scalable interceptor capability. Together, we are proving that effective air defence can be delivered quickly, at scale, and at a price point that enables mass deployment." BAE Systems said BlackThorn is intended to support the growing demand for attritable platforms, autonomous systems, missiles, and counter-drone capabilities by providing a modular payload that can be integrated across multiple weapon systems. Source : baesystems
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 15:52:38
World
KUWAIT CITY — The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) Aerospace Force has claimed it destroyed an AN/FPS-117 early-warning radar at Kuwait's Ahmed Al-Jaber Air Base during its latest military operation. According to the IRGC, the strike targeted a strategic long-range air-surveillance radar operated by Kuwait and integrated into U.S. and coalition air-defense networks across the Gulf. The IRGC said the attack marks the second AN/FPS-117 radar it has claimed to destroy since the war began. According to Iranian military statements, the first was a similar radar installation in Bahrain. The AN/FPS-117 is a Lockheed Martin-built long-range three-dimensional air-surveillance radar with a detection range of approximately 470 kilometers. The system is designed to provide early warning by detecting aircraft, drones, and missiles over long distances and is used as part of Kuwait's air-defense infrastructure. Ahmed Al-Jaber Air Base is one of Kuwait's principal military installations and has long hosted U.S. and coalition aircraft supporting regional operations. Iranian sources also released what they described as post-strike imagery captured by Iran's Khayyam reconnaissance satellite. According to those sources, the satellite image shows the aftermath of the reported attack at Ahmed Al-Jaber Air Base. The reported strike comes amid continuing military exchanges in the region. However, independent verification of the reported destruction of the AN/FPS-117 radar remains limited in publicly available sources. As of the latest available information, U.S. and Kuwaiti authorities have not publicly confirmed the IRGC's claim or released detailed assessments regarding the reported damage. The AN/FPS-117 provides long-range air surveillance and early warning capabilities, supporting airspace monitoring across the Gulf through its integration with coalition air-defense networks. Ahmed Al-Jaber Air Base remains one of Kuwait's key military facilities and has hosted U.S. and coalition aircraft for many years.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 15:20:10
Europe
ATHENS, Greece — Greece is preparing to approve a €3 billion package of Israeli-made air and missile defense systems that will form the foundation of its new "Achilles’ Shield" integrated air defense network. Final authorization is expected from the Government Council for National Security (KYSEA), marking a major step in the country's long-term military modernization program. The procurement is part of Greece's broader defense modernization plan, valued at €28 billion and scheduled to run through 2036. The program aims to replace aging Soviet-era air defense systems, including the S-300, OSA-AK, TOR-M1, and Hawk batteries, while strengthening the country's air and missile defense capabilities. Once operational, the Achilles’ Shield network will provide a multi-layered air defense architecture designed to counter a range of aerial threats, including drones, cruise missiles, aircraft, and tactical ballistic missiles. Multi-Layered Air Defense Network Under the proposed government-to-government agreement with Israel, Greece plans to acquire several Israeli air defense systems. The package includes Rafael Advanced Defense Systems' SPYDER All-in-One and David's Sling, along with the Barak MX air defense system developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). David's Sling is intended to provide protection against tactical ballistic missiles and other longer-range aerial threats, forming the middle and upper layer of the defense network. The Barak MX and SPYDER systems will provide short- to medium-range air defense, with the ability to engage drones, helicopters, aircraft, cruise missiles, and precision-guided threats. The network will also incorporate EL/M-2084 Multi-Mission Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radars supplied by ELTA, a subsidiary of IAI. According to the available information, each mobile radar can track up to 1,200 airborne targets at ranges of up to 475 kilometers. Rather than operating as separate air defense batteries, Achilles’ Shield is designed as an integrated network in which radar and target information will be shared across multiple systems. The network is also planned to operate alongside Greece's upgraded F-16 Viper fighter aircraft, future F-35 fighters, and Belharra-class frigates. Greek Industry Participation A key requirement of the program is domestic industrial participation. The Greek Ministry of National Defense has required that at least 25% of the program's value involve local industry. Greek companies, including Hellenic Aerospace Industry (HAI) and Intracom Defense, are expected to participate in manufacturing, assembly, and support activities. Their work is expected to include the production of selected components, maintenance support, and the development of the central Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence (C4I) system that will coordinate the different layers of the Achilles’ Shield network. The arrangement is also expected to support technology transfer and enable Greek companies to participate in the future supply chains of Rafael and IAI while expanding domestic maintenance capabilities. Part of Wider Defense Modernization The Achilles’ Shield project is one of the largest individual programs within Greece's long-term defense modernization effort. In addition to air defense, the modernization plan includes upgrades to the F-16 Viper fleet, the acquisition of F-35 fighter aircraft, naval modernization programs, artillery systems, transport aircraft, and unmanned systems. The package currently under KYSEA's review also includes additional defense equipment, including V-BAT vertical takeoff unmanned aircraft for army surveillance, Heron unmanned aerial vehicles, British-built mini-submarines, and C-390 Millennium transport aircraft. Greece-Israel Defense Cooperation The planned procurement reflects the growing defense partnership between Greece and Israel. In April 2026, Greece signed a $750 million agreement with Israel's Elbit Systems for PULS multiple rocket launchers. Greece, Israel, and Cyprus also continue to conduct joint military exercises focused on regional security and the protection of energy infrastructure in the Eastern Mediterranean. Following KYSEA's approval, representatives from Israel's Defense Export and International Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT) are expected to travel to Athens to finalize contracts with Greece's General Directorate for Defense Armaments and Investments under the government-to-government agreement. Implementation of the program is expected to take place over several years as Greece continues its long-term military modernization through 2036. Source : ekathimerini
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 14:53:35
World
LIMA, Peru — South Korea's HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HD HHI) and Peru's state-owned SIMA Shipyard have completed the basic design of the HDS-MGP next-generation submarine, marking an important milestone in their joint effort to strengthen Peru's submarine construction and maintenance capabilities and support the development of a regional submarine industry in Latin America. The milestone was presented to senior officials of the Peruvian Navy during the "Presentation of the Vision for the Construction of Peru's Next-Generation Submarine", held on July 14, 2026, at the Peruvian Navy Headquarters. Representatives from HD HHI, SIMA, and the Peruvian Navy reviewed the progress of the joint development program, the submarine's technical capabilities, and the long-term objectives of the partnership. HDS-MGP Designed for Peru's Operational Requirements The HDS-MGP (Hyundai Design Submarine – Marina de Guerra del Perú) is based on HD HHI's proprietary HDS-1500 design. The conventional submarine measures 65 meters in length and has a displacement of 1,500 tons. According to HD HHI, the submarine has been customized to meet Peru's operational requirements and the maritime conditions along the Pacific coast. The design also considers underwater terrain that frequently exceeds 3,000 meters in depth, reflecting the country's operating environment. Building Local Submarine Construction and Maintenance Capability A key objective of the program is to enable SIMA Shipyard to independently build, maintain, and support the HDS-MGP submarines in Peru. HD HHI said it is working closely with SIMA and local industrial partners to establish a self-sustaining submarine industrial ecosystem. The cooperation covers submarine construction, as well as maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO), while also focusing on technology transfer and workforce development. According to the companies, the initiative is expected to support local employment, strengthen Peru's maritime industrial base, and contribute to the country's broader economic growth. Peru's Experience Supports Regional Vision Peru has operated submarines for decades and has provided submarine education and training to neighboring countries. HD HHI plans to build on this operational experience as part of the joint development program. The companies said the long-term goal is to position Peru as a regional hub for submarine construction, maintenance, repair, and logistics support, while creating opportunities for future submarine exports within Latin America. Partnership Timeline The HDS-MGP program is part of a broader defense and shipbuilding partnership that has expanded steadily since 2024. April 2024: HD HHI and SIMA signed a 640.6 billion KRW (approximately $462.9 million) contract for the local construction of four naval vessels, including a 3,400-ton frigate, a 2,200-ton offshore patrol vessel, and two 1,500-ton amphibious landing ships. The agreement was described by the companies as the largest defense export contract in Latin America's history. November 2024: The companies signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to begin joint submarine development. April 2025: HD HHI and SIMA signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) to expand cooperation on a customized 1,500-ton submarine. During the same period, HD HHI also received Approval in Principle (AIP) from classification society DNV for the HDS-1500 design. November 2025: Both companies signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) to advance detailed terms for the submarine's joint design and production. December 19, 2025: HD HHI and SIMA signed the formal Joint Development Agreement for a Next-Generation Submarine at SIMA's facilities in Lima. Program Progress The basic design phase began in January 2026 and was completed after approximately 11 months. The companies said the successful completion of the design phase demonstrates close cooperation throughout the project and allows the program to move toward securing a formal contract for the joint construction of the HDS-MGP submarine. Meanwhile, the BALOG amphibious vessel, which is being built under the April 2024 naval shipbuilding agreement, is scheduled to be launched later this year. Source : navalnews
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 14:44:17
U.S
RED OAK, Texas — Qarbon Aerospace has been awarded a contract to manufacture composite structures for the sustainment of the U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor fleet, marking the company's return to the fifth-generation fighter program that it previously supported during the aircraft's development phase. During the early 2000s, Qarbon Aerospace produced horizontal stabilizers for the F-22. The company said the new contract builds on its earlier experience, with its composite manufacturing expertise and long-standing relationship with Lockheed Martin supporting the sustainment requirements of the program. The F-22 Raptor remains one of the most advanced fighter aircraft in the U.S. Air Force inventory. Since production of new F-22 aircraft ended in 2012, maintaining the operational fleet through sustainment, maintenance, repairs, and modernization has become a key focus. Composite materials are an important part of the aircraft's structure, contributing to its performance, strength-to-weight ratio, and low-observable characteristics. Under the contract, Qarbon Aerospace will manufacture structural composite assemblies to support the long-term sustainment of the operational F-22 fleet. The company stated that its established manufacturing capabilities and experience with advanced composite structures position it to meet the program's technical requirements. "The F-22 is one of the most capable aircraft ever flown, and we are proud to be manufacturing for the program again," said Michael Canario, Chief Executive Officer of Qarbon Aerospace. "Defense is a core part of who Qarbon is, and we are committed to being the Tier 1 partner the U.S. defense industry counts on for its most advanced programs." The contract further expands Qarbon Aerospace's defense portfolio. The company has supported U.S. defense programs for decades by producing structures and assemblies for fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, and space platforms. It said defense remains a central part of its business strategy, and it continues to invest in additional manufacturing capacity and defense-related opportunities. Qarbon Aerospace traces its aviation heritage to the Aeroplane Vought Company, established in 1917. Headquartered in Red Oak, Texas, the company specializes in advanced composite components and assemblies for commercial aircraft, military aircraft, spacecraft, and business jet programs. The company operates nearly two million square feet of manufacturing space across its primary facilities in Red Oak, Texas; Milledgeville, Georgia; and Rayong, Thailand. Its production capabilities range from individual component fabrication to large-scale assembly, supported by proprietary thermoplastics technologies and long-standing relationships with major original equipment manufacturers. Qarbon Aerospace has contributed to several defense programs, including completed wings for Northrop Grumman's High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) platform, the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine duct, Boeing V-22 Osprey empennage components, and structures for the T-7A Red Hawk trainer. The new F-22 sustainment contract supports broader U.S. Air Force efforts to maintain fleet readiness through maintenance, upgrades, repairs, and logistics support. Industry partners such as Qarbon Aerospace provide specialized components, including advanced composite structures, that help keep the aircraft operational. For Qarbon Aerospace, the award aligns with its focus on delivering complex aerostructures for advanced military aircraft while supporting the long-term sustainment requirements of the F-22 Raptor fleet. Source : finance.yahoo
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 14:33:33
U.S
FARNBOROUGH, U.K. — Brazilian aerospace company Embraer and U.S. defense technology firm Anduril Industries have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to evaluate the integration of the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M (B-500M) stand-off cruise missile with the Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. The agreement, announced during the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow, aims to expand the C-390 Millennium's operational role beyond tactical air mobility while maintaining its primary transport capabilities. Under the collaboration, the companies will study the use of the Barracuda-500M through roll-on/roll-off mission systems and conventional aerial-delivery procedures. Instead of permanently modifying the aircraft into a dedicated strike platform, the palletized launch system would enable the C-390 to deploy dozens of cruise missiles directly from its cargo compartment. This concept is intended to provide massed stand-off effects during dispersed operations while allowing the aircraft to continue performing its transport missions. The approach is designed to support agile combat employment by giving military operators the ability to rapidly configure the aircraft for different mission requirements without structural changes. The C-390 Millennium is a twin-engine military transport aircraft capable of carrying 26 tons of payload and reaching speeds of 470 knots, according to Embraer. The company says the aircraft flies faster and farther than other medium-sized military transport aircraft. The aircraft is designed to perform a wide range of missions, including troop and cargo transport, equipment and personnel airdrops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian assistance. It can also operate from temporary or unpaved runways. With quick-installation air-to-air refueling equipment, the C-390 can serve as both an aerial tanker and a receiver. Anduril describes the Barracuda-500M as a software-defined, affordable cruise missile developed to rapidly rebuild and expand U.S. and allied munitions inventories. The company says the missile family has been designed for hyper-scale commercial production, requiring 50% fewer parts, 95% fewer tools, and half the manufacturing time compared with traditional cruise missiles. Barracuda-500M Specifications Feature Specification Propulsion Turbojet Top Speed 930 km/h (approximately 500 knots) Operational Range More than 930 km (500 nautical miles) Payload Capacity More than 45 kg (100 lbs) According to Anduril, the first successful flight test of the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M was completed in September 2024. Since then, the company says it has conducted dozens of additional flight tests to validate the missile's maturity, modularity, and payload performance. These tests included demonstrations of Networked Collaborative Autonomy, terminal target engagements, and payload performance validation. The Embraer agreement represents another potential application for the Barracuda-500M. It follows Anduril's localized production agreement with Poland's PGZ and procurement framework agreements with the U.S. Department of War under the Family of Affordable Mass Missiles (FAMM) program. To support anticipated production demand of up to 8,000 missiles annually, Anduril is shifting manufacturing to its 5-million-square-foot Arsenal-1 facility in Ohio. For Embraer, the integration study introduces an additional mission concept for the C-390 Millennium as the aircraft continues to expand its international customer base. The C-390 has been selected by the air forces of Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Republic of Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, Uzbekistan, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, Slovakia, and Lithuania. Bosco Da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, said the collaboration represents another step in expanding the aircraft's capabilities. "This collaboration with Anduril marks another important step in the evolution of the C-390 Millennium. By exploring the integration of stand-off launch capabilities for palletized, kinetic, and non-kinetic effects, we are further expanding the aircraft's flexibility to meet the evolving needs of modern air forces. Together, we are developing innovative solutions that strengthen mission versatility, support agile combat employment, and increase operational possibilities for our customers worldwide." Greg Kausner, Senior Vice President for Global Defense at Anduril, said the integration would provide allied militaries with an additional stand-off strike option using an existing airlift platform. "Integrating the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M with Embraer's C-390 Millennium gives allied militaries a new way to generate massed, stand-off effects from a proven airlift platform. Anduril's Barracuda family of systems delivers rapidly producible, operationally relevant capabilities to meet the growing demand for affordable, scalable munitions." The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a framework for studying the integration of the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M with the C-390 Millennium, combining Embraer's multi-mission transport aircraft with Anduril's stand-off cruise missile concept to evaluate an additional operational capability for future military operators. Source : Embraer
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 14:24:06
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 15:13:36Search
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