World
SÃO PAULO, — Brazilian aircraft manufacturer Embraer delivered 66 aircraft in the third quarter of 2026, its highest third-quarter total on record. Deliveries increased 6% year over year and 2% from the previous quarter. During the first nine months of 2026, Embraer delivered 175 aircraft, up 14% from 153 in the same period of 2025. The Defence & Security division resumed deliveries after recording none in the second quarter. It delivered one C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft to the Czech Republic and two A-29 Super Tucano light attack and training aircraft. In the third quarter of 2025, the division delivered one military aircraft. By the end of September 2026, Embraer had delivered two C-390s and six A-29s during the year. C-390 and A-29 Production Plans Embraer plans to produce and deliver six C-390 Millennium aircraft in 2026, including one for the Brazilian Air Force and others for export customers. The company aims to increase annual C-390 production to ten aircraft by 2030. The first C-390 for Uzbekistan is planned for delivery in the fourth quarter, according to the supplied information. Meanwhile, A-29 Super Tucano aircraft for the Philippines are on the assembly line, with deliveries planned for the second half of 2026. Over the past two years, Embraer has secured contracts for 39 A-29 aircraft for eight countries. Commercial and Executive Aircraft Deliveries Embraer's Commercial Aviation division delivered 22 aircraft, comprising 11 E175 regional jets and 11 aircraft from the E2 family. This was a 10% increase compared with both the second quarter of 2026 and the third quarter of 2025. Executive Aviation delivered 41 business jets, matching its total for the third quarter of 2025. The division accounted for the largest share of Embraer's quarterly deliveries. 2026 Delivery Outlook Embraer maintains its full-year guidance of 80–85 commercial aircraft and 160–170 executive jets. The midpoints of both ranges represent a 6% increase compared with 2025. The third-quarter results reflect increased commercial deliveries and the resumption of military aircraft handovers, while Embraer plans to expand C-390 production and continue fulfilling international A-29 orders.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 16:01:29
Space & Technology
BEIJING, — China has connected its first 100-megawatt-class compressed carbon dioxide (CO2) energy storage facility to the power grid, while making progress on a fusion research device and a domestically developed variable-speed pumped-storage unit. The three developments cover energy storage, nuclear fusion research and flexible power generation, supporting China's efforts to improve grid stability and integrate renewable energy. 100-MW CO2 Energy Storage Project in Xinjiang The China Huadian Xinjiang Mori compressed CO2 energy storage project is located in Mori Kazakh Autonomous County, Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region. The facility has a rated power capacity of 100 MW and an energy storage capacity of 1,000 MWh. Some reports place the initial grid connection on September 30, ahead of the October 2 announcement. Covering approximately 840–848 mu of Gobi land, the facility contains five gas holders, 141 liquid storage units and 97 thermal storage units. The closed-loop system uses CO2 as its working medium. During periods of low electricity demand, surplus electricity compresses CO2 gas into a high-pressure liquid state, while the heat produced during compression is stored. When demand rises, the liquid CO2 is heated and expanded into gas to drive turbines and generate electricity. Unlike pumped-hydro systems that require suitable elevation differences and compressed-air storage systems that may depend on underground caverns, this technology operates above ground and offers greater flexibility in site selection. The project uses domestically developed core technologies and is included in the National Energy Administration's fourth batch of major first-of-a-kind energy equipment. It is also a green low-carbon demonstration project designated by the National Development and Reform Commission. The facility is designed to store 290 million kWh of electricity during off-peak periods and discharge 180 million kWh during peak periods annually. Continuous generation can exceed six hours, with response times measured in minutes. Reported technical specifications include turbine efficiency above 90%, design efficiency of up to 92% and an inlet flow rate of 1,472.4 tonnes per hour. Project leader Ma Guojiang said compressed CO2 offers high energy density, efficiency, safety and relatively low cost. Once fully operational, the project is expected to generate approximately 200 million kWh of electricity annually, save around 50,000 tonnes of standard coal and reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 170,000 tonnes. It will also support peak-load management, frequency and voltage regulation, and renewable energy integration. Intelligent controls enable one-touch startup and unmanned operation, with drone-based inspections. BEST Fusion Device Enters Assembly Phase China's Compact Fusion Experimental Device, also known as the Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak (BEST), has entered its critical four-ring installation phase in Hefei, Anhui Province. The project campus was handed over for use around October 1, 2026. Led by the Institute of Plasma Physics under the Hefei Institutes of Physical Science of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, BEST is designed to study deuterium-tritium burning plasma under reactor-like conditions and investigate the scientific and engineering feasibility of tokamak fusion reactors. Since July 2026, key components, including the vacuum vessel, thermal shield and toroidal field magnets, have arrived at the site. The vacuum vessel forms the reaction chamber, the thermal shield helps manage heat transfer, and the magnets generate the magnetic fields needed to confine the hot plasma. Construction is targeted for completion by the end of 2027, with deuterium-tritium fusion power generation demonstrations planned around 2030. The device aims to verify technologies needed for future commercial fusion power. Variable-Speed Pumped-Storage Unit Installed in Guangdong On October 1, 2026, engineers successfully hoisted the rotor into place for China's first fully domestically produced megawatt-class variable-speed pumped-storage unit at the Guangdong Zhaoqing Langjiang Pumped Storage Project. The rotor is nearly 5.2 metres tall and weighs 445 tonnes. Installation tolerances were controlled to within 4.5 millimetres, and the unit is reported to have 100% domestic content. Variable-speed technology allows the machinery's rotational speed to be adjusted according to grid requirements, improving operational flexibility and the ability to integrate wind and solar power. Pumped-storage systems use electricity to pump water to an upper reservoir and release it through turbines when electricity is needed. The Zhaoqing Langjiang project is expected to enter full operation in the first half of 2027. It is projected to absorb 2.16 billion kWh of clean energy annually and reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 1.9 million tonnes. Together, the three projects expand China's options for long-duration energy storage, flexible grid management and experimental fusion research, although their eventual contributions will depend on commissioning and operational performance.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 15:51:46
Europe
Düsseldorf / Turin, — German defence technology group Rheinmetall and Italian space company Argotec have successfully launched their first jointly developed military surveillance satellite. The spacecraft lifted off on October 1 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California, as part of the Transporter-18 rideshare mission, which carried approximately 130 payloads into low Earth orbit. The launch was managed through Rheinmetall’s Italian subsidiary, Rheinmetall Italia S.p.A. The programme aims to develop an independent satellite-based capability to provide national security forces and military institutions with space-based situational awareness. Satellite Designed for Air Defence Unlike conventional observation satellites focused on mapping ground objects, the satellite is designed to support intelligence gathering and air defence. Its specialised sensors are intended to detect ground-based indicators of emerging airborne threats and provide early-warning information to military personnel. The collected imagery and situational data will be processed using artificial intelligence (AI) and integrated into existing national defence and air defence systems. The wider architecture connects space-based observation equipment with ground-based nodes and tactical networks, coordinated through a Command and Control Post to support near-real-time information delivery and operational decision-making. Partnership Combines Defence and Space Expertise The partnership combines Rheinmetall’s defence systems integration expertise with Argotec’s spacecraft manufacturing experience, including work on NASA programmes and other international space projects. Rheinmetall Italia is responsible for integrating satellite data with command-and-control systems and the wider defence network. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger said the launch was an important milestone in strengthening national security and space capabilities. He highlighted the importance of integrating space-based data into existing defence architectures to improve technological sovereignty and resilient, networked situational awareness. Argotec CEO and founder David Avino said the project would turn space technology into a scalable, connected operational asset designed for complex defence scenarios. He also emphasised the role of near-real-time satellite information in supporting decision-makers and increasing technological autonomy. Second Satellite Planned for 2028 The programme follows a modular development approach. The first satellite will help the companies validate their technologies in orbit and establish a technical foundation for future development and funding stages. Rheinmetall and Argotec plan to expand the initial capability into a larger satellite constellation over the medium to long term. A second satellite launch is scheduled for 2028, according to the programme roadmap. Rheinmetall announced the successful launch in a press release issued on October 2, 2026.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 15:45:57
U.S
REDONDO BEACH, California — Northrop Grumman plans to quadruple its U.S. microchip production by 2030 to strengthen domestic semiconductor supply chains for military programs and commercial customers. The company manufactures and procures millions of microchips annually across three government-accredited U.S. facilities: the Advanced Technology Lab in Linthicum Heights, Maryland; the Space Park foundry in Redondo Beach, California; and an advanced packaging facility in Florida. Its chips support fighter aircraft, radar systems, satellites and electronic warfare equipment, performing functions such as signal processing and control logic. “With our deep end-to-end knowledge and manufacturing capabilities, we can deliver the right chip, with the right capability to the right mission, every time,” said Robert Mendoza, operations manager at the company's Redondo Beach facility. Advanced Packaging Technology Northrop Grumman is also focusing on advanced packaging, which combines chips with different functions into a single package. Three-dimensional chip stacking can increase performance while reducing component size and power consumption. “These 3-dimensional chip-stacking methods allow our products to do more, faster – while taking up less space and using less power,” said Brittany Battaglia, the company's advanced packaging program manager. Northrop Grumman operates one of the few advanced packaging facilities in the United States. According to the company, approximately 98% of American semiconductor manufacturers source these specific packaging services internationally. Its Florida facility provides wafer bumping, probing and dicing for wafers ranging from 100 mm to 300 mm. Complex Manufacturing Process Northrop Grumman's microelectronics production relies on more than 800 distinct materials, including silicon, gallium arsenide and indium phosphide. Manufacturing involves repeated deposition, photolithography and etching processes to create electronic structures. After fabrication and testing, individual chips are separated using lasers or diamond saw blades. Vicky Zheng, a process integration engineer at the company's Baltimore facility, compared wafer fabrication to baking a layered cake, explaining that each layer requires different materials and processing conditions. The company said its engineers continue to refine manufacturing processes and develop new production methods. Strengthening Supply-Chain Security The expansion addresses risks associated with the semiconductor industry's reliance on overseas manufacturing, particularly in Taiwan, and geopolitical tensions involving China. Increasing U.S. production could help protect defense programs and commercial customers from international supply-chain disruptions. In 2025, Northrop Grumman opened its Microelectronics Center to external partners, including aerospace and defense companies, commercial businesses, academic institutions and government organizations. Partners can access chip design, manufacturing, packaging and testing capabilities at its U.S. facilities and purchase components through an online storefront. The planned expansion is also expected to support thousands of American workers, contribute to local economies and develop long-term expertise in semiconductor engineering and manufacturing. The company aims to increase domestic production while supporting innovation in specialized microchips for military and commercial applications.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 15:35:37
World
NAGASAKI, Japan — Satellite imagery dated October 2 shows significant progress in the construction of Japan’s first Aegis System Equipped Vessel (ASEV), identified as CG-191, at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Nagasaki shipyard. The hull and superstructure are increasingly taking shape as Japan prepares to introduce one of its largest surface combatants. Dimensions and Design The vessel is expected to measure approximately 190 meters long and 25 meters wide, with a standard displacement of around 12,000 tonnes. Some reports estimate its full-load displacement at 14,000–16,000 tonnes. This would make it substantially larger than Japan’s Maya-class Aegis destroyers, which measure about 170 meters and have a standard displacement of approximately 8,200 tonnes. The new ships are expected to receive the CG (guided-missile cruiser) designation rather than the DDG classification used for existing Aegis destroyers. The ASEV design is reported to include a CODLAG propulsion system with two Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbines, diesel engines and electric motors, providing a planned speed of approximately 30 knots. The expected crew is around 240, with automation intended to reduce personnel requirements. JAPAN — Japan’s first Aegis System Equipped Vessel is rapidly taking shape in Nagasaki.Satellite imagery dated October 2, 2026 provides a fresh overhead look at the lead JMSDF Aegis System Equipped Vessel, commonly identified as CG-191, under construction at Mitsubishi Heavy… pic.twitter.com/fVFmSRwmKt — MizarVision (@MizarVision) October 2, 2026 Radar and Missile Systems The vessel’s primary sensor will be Lockheed Martin’s AN/SPY-7(V)1 radar, integrated with the Aegis Combat System. Four fixed radar arrays are designed to provide 360-degree coverage and track multiple threats, including ballistic missiles and airborne targets, with the system intended to support defense against emerging hypersonic threats. In August 2026, Lockheed Martin confirmed that the first complete ASEV radar and Aegis combat-system shipset had completed validation testing in the United States and was being prepared for shipment to Japan for installation and integration. The ships are planned to carry 128 Mk 41 vertical-launch cells, with 64 forward and 64 aft, compared with 96 cells on Maya-class destroyers. Planned weapons include SM-3 Block IIA ballistic-missile interceptors and SM-6 missiles. Potential future weapons include Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles and enhanced versions of Japan’s Type 12 anti-ship missiles; their installation should not be assumed until officially confirmed. Programme Background and Timeline Japan pursued the ASEV programme after cancelling its land-based Aegis Ashore missile defense project in 2020. The ship-based programme is intended to provide persistent ballistic-missile defense coverage and allow existing Aegis destroyers to focus on a wider range of naval missions. The combined programme cost has been reported at approximately 1 trillion yen. The first vessel was laid down at Nagasaki on July 18, 2025. Its launch is targeted for fiscal year 2026, with commissioning planned for March 2028. The second vessel, CG-192, was laid down at Japan Marine United’s Isogo shipyard in Yokohama on February 5, 2026. It is scheduled for launch in fiscal year 2027 and commissioning in March 2029. The October 2 imagery shows CG-191 progressing from its initial construction blocks toward a recognizable major surface combatant. Upcoming work includes completing the structure, installing and integrating the combat systems, and conducting testing ahead of service entry.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 15:26:24
World
ABU DHABI, UAE — EDGE Group has completed the development and testing of the MK 82 Penetrator, an aircraft munition designed to defeat hardened targets and bunkers. The weapon was designed and manufactured in the United Arab Emirates by LAHAB, EDGE’s medium- and large-calibre ammunition manufacturer. Successful Penetration Tests The development programme included performance trials against different hardened targets and a full series of environmental qualification tests. During live trials, the MK 82 Penetrator breached reinforced concrete more than one metre thick. The munition also demonstrated no “J” effect, meaning it maintained its trajectory through the target material without significant deviation. Aircraft Compatibility and Guidance Systems The MK 82 Penetrator is designed for use with a wide range of NATO-configured aircraft, including fourth-generation and 4.5-generation multirole fighters, fifth-generation fighters, variable-geometry strike aircraft, advanced jet trainers and light-attack platforms. It can be used on aircraft already cleared to carry the standard MK 82 General Purpose bomb, subject to applicable integration and clearance requirements. The munition is compatible with existing MK 82 precision-guidance kits, including EDGE’s domestically developed AL TARIQ and THUNDER guidance families. This allows operators to add hardened-target capabilities to existing guided-weapon configurations without requiring an entirely separate guidance system. LAHAB Developing Heavier MK 83 Variant Mohammed Arbabi, CEO of LAHAB, said the new munition expands military operators’ capabilities while maintaining familiarity and ease of use. He added that it provides greater flexibility without unnecessary complexity and reflects the company’s commitment to meeting users’ evolving requirements. The MK 82 Penetrator is the first in a planned family of hardened-target weapons. LAHAB is already at an advanced stage of developing the heavier MK 83 Penetrator aircraft munition. UAE’s Domestic Munitions Production LAHAB operates within EDGE’s Missiles and Weapons cluster and is the UAE’s only manufacturer of medium- and large-calibre munitions. Its existing product range includes the MK 81, MK 82, MK 83 and MK 84 general-purpose aerial bombs. The company has secured long-term supply contracts with the UAE Ministry of Defence and signed partnership agreements to expand MK-series production and exports. The MK 82 and MK 83 Penetrator programmes form part of the UAE’s broader effort to develop, qualify and manufacture advanced munitions domestically, strengthening its defence industrial capabilities and supply options for the UAE and its strategic partners.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 15:16:54
India
NEW DELHI, — India expects to reach a conclusion on its proposed acquisition of 114 Rafale fighter jets by the end of the financial year, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh has said. The programme will follow a buy-and-make approach, with most aircraft expected to be assembled in India alongside significant indigenisation and integration of Indian weapons and systems. Speaking to news agency ANI on Thursday, Singh confirmed that bids submitted under the Request for Proposal (RFP) process are undergoing formal evaluation. A final decision will follow the assessment. “In this case, of course, we are going one step ahead, in the sense that it's a buy-and-make programme, with the bulk of the aircraft to be assembled in India, with significant levels of indigenisation and integration of Indian systems and weapons,” Singh said. Rafale Deal to Expand Domestic Manufacturing The French manufacturer has agreed to integrate Indian weapons into the 26 Rafale Marine fighters ordered separately for the Indian Navy. Deliveries of these naval aircraft are expected to begin in 2028. The proposed 114-fighter acquisition is a separate programme. India already operates 36 Rafale aircraft with the Indian Air Force (IAF). Reports have placed the potential value of the new deal at around ₹3.25 lakh crore, although the procurement remains under evaluation. The proposed arrangement is expected to involve a limited number of aircraft supplied from France, with the majority assembled in India. The acquisition is intended to help address the IAF's fighter squadron shortage. The Air Force currently has around 30 squadrons against an authorised requirement of 42. Tejas Mk2 First Flight Scheduled for Mid-2027 India is continuing development of the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk2, also known as Tejas Mk2. Singh said its first flight is scheduled for the middle of 2027. “As of now, the LCA Mk2 is still on, with the first flight scheduled for the middle of next year. Let the prototypes come and let the Air Force evaluate them, and thereafter, we will see,” he said. The IAF has initially projected a requirement for 120 Tejas Mk2 aircraft. Further decisions will depend on prototype development and the Air Force's evaluation. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will lead the manufacturing programme, with private companies and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) contributing to production. Their involvement includes sub-assemblies and major components such as fuselages. The programme will follow a spiral development approach, allowing improvements through successive upgrades. India Focuses on Indigenous AMCA Fighter India is also moving forward with the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), its planned fifth-generation fighter. Singh said the government is not currently pursuing the import of a foreign fifth-generation fighter and remains focused on the domestic programme. Requests for Proposals have been issued to shortlisted Indian vendors. However, the companies have requested additional time because of the technical complexity of developing a fifth-generation aircraft. “We are going to give them some more time,” Singh said, reiterating that AMCA remains the country's focus for this category of fighter. The three programmes reflect India's approach of combining foreign fighter procurement with domestic aircraft development. While the Rafale acquisition is intended to strengthen the IAF's fleet and expand local manufacturing, Tejas Mk2 and AMCA are central to building India's indigenous combat aircraft capabilities. The Rafale deal remains subject to bid evaluation and completion of the formal procurement process.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 15:04:47
U.S
WASHINGTON, — The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded contracts to aerospace startups Overview Energy and Katalyst Space to develop two different technologies for collecting solar energy in space and transmitting it to Earth. The projects aim to provide electricity to remote military bases and forward-deployed locations while reducing dependence on fuel deliveries and vulnerable supply routes. The initiatives are funded through the Pentagon’s Operational Energy Capability Improvement Fund (OECIF), which supports the development and demonstration of technologies for military energy requirements. The two companies are pursuing near-infrared light and microwave transmission, respectively. Overview Energy Develops Near-Infrared Technology Overview Energy, founded in 2022 and based in Ashburn, Virginia, received an OECIF contract to design, build and test a homing beacon system for its space-based solar satellites. The system will allow satellites to identify authorized ground receivers, locate them precisely and direct near-infrared light toward designated sites. Ground crews will install beacons at receiving locations, while authentication mechanisms are intended to prevent signal spoofing or unauthorized redirection. The company’s satellites are designed to collect sunlight in orbit and convert it into near-infrared light for transmission through the atmosphere. Existing utility-scale solar panels on Earth will absorb the beam and convert its energy into electricity, potentially allowing power generation at night when natural sunlight is unavailable. Overview Energy has already demonstrated power transmission from a moving aircraft to ground-based solar panels over several kilometers. The test validated key tracking, pointing and transmission technologies intended for orbital use. Hardware developed under the new contract will be integrated into the company’s first satellite, with a low Earth orbit demonstration planned for 2028. Overview intends to use this system as the basis for a larger constellation of satellites in geosynchronous orbit, with deployment targeted to begin in 2030. Satellites in this orbit can remain approximately fixed relative to a point on Earth and receive sunlight for extended periods. The company’s longer-term concept includes redirecting power beams between regions to meet changing electricity demand and military requirements. Earlier in 2026, Overview received a separate U.S. Air Force contract worth less than $1 million to study space-based solar power for military installations operating under difficult or contested logistics conditions. The study includes Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska and Andersen Air Force Base in Guam, where fuel transportation can present logistical challenges. Overview has also signed a capacity-reservation agreement with Meta for up to 1 gigawatt of power from its planned system, with commercial delivery targeted for 2030. Katalyst Space Develops Microwave Power Transmission The Pentagon is also supporting Katalyst Space, a Colorado-based company founded in 2020 that specializes in robotic space operations. On September 21, 2026, the OECIF awarded the company a separate contract under the Advanced Scalable Growth Architecture for Robotic Deployment (ASGARD) program to demonstrate the on-orbit assembly of a large-scale power-beaming system. Katalyst plans to deploy its NEXUS autonomous robotic spacecraft into low Earth orbit. Its robotic arms will assemble modular power-beaming tiles developed by the U.S. Naval Research Laboratory (NRL) into a large solar-collection structure. The system will collect solar energy, convert it into radio-frequency microwave energy and transmit it to a dedicated receiving station on Earth. Unlike Overview Energy’s approach, which is designed to use conventional solar panels, Katalyst’s system will require specialized ground receivers. Its modular design is intended to allow additional hardware to be delivered and assembled by robotic vehicles, expanding capacity over time from an initial output measured in kilowatts to megawatts of continuous power. Pentagon Tests Two Approaches The two projects address the same military logistics challenge through different technologies. Overview Energy is developing near-infrared transmission compatible with existing solar infrastructure, while Katalyst Space is testing microwave transmission combined with robotic assembly in orbit. Both approaches aim to supply electricity to remote locations where fuel transportation and conventional power infrastructure are limited. Their potential applications could extend to civilian electricity networks, although practical deployment will depend on the results of demonstrations and further technological development. The OECIF contracts support the evaluation of both technologies in parallel. Overview’s first space-based demonstration is planned for 2028, while Katalyst will demonstrate robotic assembly of its microwave power system in low Earth orbit. The dollar values of the two contracts have not been disclosed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 14:57:14
Europe
LONDON, — British space technology company SatVu has successfully launched its HotSat-3 satellite to expand its ability to monitor heat signatures on Earth's surface from orbit. The satellite lifted off on October 1 aboard SpaceX's Transporter-18 rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. HotSat-3 will undergo in-orbit commissioning before starting commercial operations. Once operational, it will work alongside HotSat-2, giving SatVu two working satellites and the ability to image any location on Earth in thermal infrared once every 24 hours, during both day and night. "With two operational satellites, we will have double the capacity: customers can collect twice as much imagery, monitor twice as many sites, or return to the same site more often," said Anthony Baker, SatVu's CEO and co-founder. High-Resolution Thermal Imaging Technology Built by Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL), HotSat-3 carries a mid-wave infrared (MWIR) camera that detects heat emitted by objects rather than reflected sunlight. This allows it to operate at night and identify heat signatures from running engines, generators, gas flares, ship wakes and warm cooling water discharged by power plants. SatVu states that its imagery can resolve details down to 3.5 metres (11.5 feet) at nadir, offering finer spatial detail than the approximately 100-metre thermal resolution of older systems such as Landsat. The company also provides thermal video clips lasting up to 60 seconds, allowing analysts to observe movement and changes in activity rather than relying only on still images. Defence and Commercial Applications Defence and intelligence agencies can use the imagery to assess whether vehicles, ships, factories and other equipment appear to be operating. Repeated observations can help track changes in activity at strategic sites and critical infrastructure, particularly at night or in areas with limited ground reporting. SatVu also serves commodity traders and energy analysts, who monitor heat signatures at oil refineries and liquefied natural gas (LNG) plants to identify potential shutdowns, restarts and changes in facility activity. In February 2026, SatVu raised £30 million (approximately $40 million) in a funding round that included the NATO Innovation Fund and other investors, bringing its total equity funding to £60 million. The company has also received a Defence Innovation Loan from the UK Ministry of Defence. Minister of State Luke Pollard said the government loan helped attract subsequent private investment. Previous Satellite Failure and Expansion Plans HotSat-3 is SatVu's third satellite but only its second operational spacecraft. HotSat-2 launched in March 2026 aboard SpaceX's Transporter-16 mission and began delivering commercial imagery in June. The company's first satellite, HotSat-1, launched in June 2023 and returned its first images in October, including views of wildfires in Canada and urban heat in Las Vegas. An anomaly halted operations in December 2023. Baker later linked the failure to a likely power circuit problem in the camera. SatVu received a £10 million insurance payout and ordered HotSat-2 and HotSat-3 from SSTL in 2024. The company has already booked launches for HotSat-4 and HotSat-5 and signed contracts covering long-lead components for HotSat-6. SatVu ultimately plans to deploy approximately 10 satellites, aiming to revisit priority locations up to 20 times a day. The full constellation is targeted for polar and mid-inclination orbits by the end of 2029. HotSat-3's successful launch marks another step toward SatVu's goal of providing more frequent thermal imagery for defence, intelligence, energy and other commercial customers.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 14:21:51
U.S
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. — The U.S. Air Force has fielded the IRIS satellite communications prototype on B-52 Stratofortress bombers, providing crews with beyond-line-of-sight connectivity for long-range missions. Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) is evaluating the system as a potential long-term communications solution for the bomber fleet. Developed by Outerlink Global Solutions, a technology company based in Shreveport, Louisiana, IRIS integrates a satellite communications terminal with aircraft and ground support components. It supports voice, video, and analog and digital aircraft system data, helping crews exchange information over long distances. The system is intended to replace the Global Iridium Bomber Set (GLIBS), which has been in service since 2017. IRIS also supports the Department of Defense's Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) concept, which aims to connect data and sensors across military services and operational domains. The system builds on Iridium Certus technology and the Iridium NEXT low-Earth-orbit satellite constellation. “The ability to communicate reliably across vast distances is foundational to our global operations,” said Maj. Gen. Ty Neuman, commander of 8th Air Force and the Joint-Global Strike Operations Center. He said IRIS helps crews stay connected, share information and execute missions in dynamic and contested environments. Development and Testing The program began with an airborne demonstration in June 2022 at Barksdale Air Force Base. During the flight, the 608th Air Operations Center evaluated voice and data transfers, including live video and images. AFGSC subsequently used an AFWERX Small Business Innovation Research Phase II contract to integrate Outerlink's commercial technology onto the B-52. In 2023, the effort received a $26 million Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) contract, the first such contract designated specifically to AFGSC. The command's Rapid Capabilities and Bomber Requirements divisions adapted the system to the aircraft's physical constraints and modernization needs. The B-52 System Program Office, 307th Bomb Wing and 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron provided engineering expertise and operational feedback. In March 2026, ground and flight testing assessed reliability and technical maturity. The 608th Air Operations Center and 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron validated end-to-end performance through approved network pathways. Following airworthiness approval by the B-52 System Program Office, multiple IRIS kits had been installed by April 1, 2026. The aircraft were then delivered to the 49th Test and Evaluation Squadron for crew training and operational employment. “Partnership is what made this possible,” said Maj. Gen. Peter Bonetti, director of AFGSC's Strategic Plans, Programs, and Requirements Directorate, highlighting the cooperation between operators, technical teams and industry. Prototype Status and Next Steps Although IRIS is already in operational use, it remains designated as a prototype. Further evaluation will help AFGSC determine its suitability as a permanent beyond-line-of-sight communications solution for the B-52. The bomber has supported U.S. long-range strike missions and nuclear deterrence for more than 70 years. Modern communications are intended to help it meet current and future operational requirements. “This is about readiness,” said Jackie Ford, chief of AFGSC's Rapid Capabilities division. She said rapidly delivering capabilities to operators would help keep the B-52 prepared for present and future missions.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 14:13:16
Europe
WARSAW — Poland’s military and Border Guard have deployed an artificial intelligence (AI) system called Inteligentna Granica (Intelligent Border) to monitor the country’s frontier with Belarus. The system combines data from cameras, drones and ground sensors into a unified operational picture, helping personnel identify suspicious activity and respond to unauthorized border crossings. The system operates as part of Operation Safe Podlasie, the military mission supporting the Border Guard along Poland’s eastern frontier. Brigadier General Jarosław Chojnacki, chief of staff of the Operational Command, received a briefing on its implementation and daily performance during a visit to Task Group Podlasie. The technology is being tested across a border section several dozen kilometers long. The trial also includes robotics and autonomous systems, but officials have not disclosed the platforms involved, their numbers or the exact test location. How the AI System Works Inteligentna Granica was developed jointly by Poland’s Border Guard and the Artificial Intelligence Implementation Center, part of the country’s Cyberspace Defense Forces. The system uses AIRON TACTIC, a secure AI platform developed by the cyber forces, to recognize objects in real time, assess their activity and flag events requiring human attention. The resulting information is integrated into the TAK and JAŚMIN command systems, which are already used by military personnel and Border Guard officers in the field. The technology aims to reduce the time personnel spend monitoring video feeds and improve response times while keeping human operators involved in assessing events and deciding how to respond. Responsibilities are divided between the two organizations. The Border Guard installs, maintains and oversees cameras and observation equipment and supplies the data, while the military develops and operates the AI analysis system. In July 2026, Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz said the system was scheduled to enter operational use in August. The Cyberspace Defense Forces later confirmed that final testing had been completed ahead of the planned timeline and that the system was in use. Colonel Piotr Turek, head of the Artificial Intelligence Implementation Center, has identified border automation as a major Ministry of National Defence priority, with Intelligent Border serving as a key example. Operation Safe Podlasie Operation Safe Podlasie began on August 1, 2024, replacing two earlier missions along Poland’s eastern frontier. Polish troops have supported the Border Guard on the Belarusian border since 2021, when Warsaw accused the government in Minsk of organizing hybrid actions that included directing migrants toward Polish territory. More than 10,000 troops participated in the operation’s third rotation, while approximately 5,000 soldiers support the Border Guard along the Belarusian border daily. On July 30, 2026, command of the operation transferred from the 18th Mechanized Division to the 12th Mechanized Division, which is managing the fourth rotation through four task groups along the border. The deployment of Intelligent Border, alongside trials involving robotics and autonomous systems, is part of Poland’s effort to improve surveillance and coordination along its eastern frontier. However, officials have not released detailed performance results or disclosed the full scale of the new technology’s deployment.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 14:02:00
Europe
BERGEN, Germany — Germany’s armed forces, the Bundeswehr, will establish their first dedicated drone regiment in 2027 to strengthen the German Army’s unmanned capabilities. Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced the plan on Thursday during the Experimentalserie Land military exercise at the Bergen training area in Lower Saxony. Regiment to Operate Drones and Unmanned Ground Systems The new regiment will combine reconnaissance, combat and counter-drone operations under a single command structure. It will operate unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned ground systems, covering missions from close-range operations to longer ranges of up to 500 kilometers. The unit will also include a dedicated electronic warfare company. Plans indicate a structure of five or six companies covering close-range engagements, longer-range effects, electronic warfare, drone defence and testing. Initial Strength of 300 Soldiers Army Inspector Lieutenant General Christian Freuding said the regiment is expected to begin with approximately 300 soldiers by the end of 2027, with a planned expansion to around 600 personnel. The regiment’s location has not yet been decided. The selection will depend on infrastructure suitable for extensive testing and flight operations. The unit is expected to operate loitering munitions, also known as kamikaze drones. These systems are undergoing trials and are scheduled to enter service in 2027. Defense officials aim to finalize procurement decisions by spring 2027, with initial operational capability targeted for the end of the year. Assignment to the 10th Armored Division The regiment will be assigned to the divisional troops of Division 2025, the German Army’s 10th Armored Division. The division also includes the 45th Armored Brigade, which is scheduled to be permanently stationed in Lithuania to support NATO’s eastern flank. The brigade is expected to receive its own drone defence capabilities before deployment. Pistorius said the regiment would complement, rather than replace, the integration of unmanned systems into existing Army formations. Conventional forces, including infantry and armored vehicles, will remain essential to land operations. Drone Integration Across the Army Work to integrate unmanned systems into light infantry, reconnaissance and armored forces is scheduled to begin around the turn of 2026 and 2027. Germany is pursuing both a dedicated drone regiment and the integration of unmanned systems into existing units. Freuding said that if the centralized model proves successful within the 10th Armored Division, similar regiments could be established across other Army divisions. Ukraine War Shapes Military Modernization Pistorius identified the ongoing war in Ukraine as a major source of lessons for Germany’s military modernization. He highlighted autonomous systems, data sovereignty, battlefield networking and rapid innovation cycles as important areas for future military development. Germany’s strategic cooperation with Ukraine provides opportunities to study battlefield experience, test new approaches and incorporate relevant findings into military development and procurement. The announcement follows procurement contracts signed earlier in 2026 with defense technology companies Helsing, STARK and Rheinmetall for loitering munitions. The Experimentalserie Land exercise tests new military systems with troops under conditions designed to approximate combat environments. Its results help shape military structures, tactics, operational requirements and future equipment procurement as Germany expands its use of unmanned technologies.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 13:54:09
Europe
OSLO, Norway — The Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency (FMA) has completed the first live firing of the Evolved SeaSparrow Missile (ESSM) Block 2 from a Royal Norwegian Navy vessel. The test was conducted off the coast of Andøya aboard the Fridtjof Nansen-class frigate KNM Otto Sverdrup as part of Project P6192, managed by the FMA’s Maritime Capabilities division. The testing campaign included simulated launches and live firings against drone targets to evaluate the missile’s performance, updated communication features, active guidance and integration with newly updated software in the ship’s Aegis combat system. Data collected from the missile and onboard combat system has been sent to the United States for detailed analysis. Preliminary results indicate that the project remains on track to deliver the upgraded capability to Norway’s fleet. The trial involved the U.S. Navy, Andøya Space Defence (ASD), Lockheed Martin, the National Maritime Operations Centre (NSS N6) and the Royal Norwegian Navy Logistics Command (SFK). FMA Project Manager Commander Tor Harald Monsen directed the exercise from Range Control at ASD. “This has been an excellent international collaboration, with professional execution by both the crew of KNM Otto Sverdrup and the test leadership at Range Control,” Monsen said. ESSM Block 2 Features and Specifications Developed through the international NATO SeaSparrow Consortium and manufactured by RTX (Raytheon), the ESSM Block 2 is designed to defend naval vessels against advanced anti-ship cruise missiles, tactical aircraft and other surface threats. Its main improvement over Block 1 is a dual-mode active and semi-active radar seeker. While Block 1 relies on continuous-wave illumination from shipboard fire-control radars throughout an engagement, Block 2 can use its active radar seeker to guide itself during the final interception phase. This reduces dependence on shipboard illuminator radars and allows the Aegis combat system to manage multiple engagements with fewer illumination-channel limitations. Key specifications include: Top speed: More than Mach 4. Operational range: More than 50 kilometres (approximately 27 nautical miles). Length: Approximately 3.66 metres. Weight: Approximately 280 kilograms. Warhead: 39-kilogram blast-fragmentation warhead. Launch system: Compatible with existing Mark 41 Vertical Launching Systems (VLS). Quad-pack capability: Four missiles can fit into one compatible launch cell. KNM Otto Sverdrup and Next Steps KNM Otto Sverdrup is a Fridtjof Nansen-class frigate equipped with the Aegis combat system, AN/SPY-1F radar and an eight-cell Mk 41 VLS. The launch system can accommodate up to 32 ESSM missiles in a quad-pack configuration. The frigate class also carries Naval Strike Missiles, a 76 mm gun and other onboard systems. The ESSM Block 2 retains the physical dimensions and launch compatibility of Block 1, allowing integration with existing launch systems. Following the successful test, the FMA’s Maritime Capabilities division and the Royal Norwegian Navy will proceed with final installation, fleet integration and formal operational certification of the upgraded missile system. The trial represents a step in updating Norway’s ship-based air-defence capabilities.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 13:36:00
U.S
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Navy has awarded Raytheon, an RTX business, a contract worth up to $24.4 billion to accelerate production of the Standard Missile-6 (SM-6). The Department of War announced the agreement as part of efforts to replenish missile stockpiles, expand manufacturing capacity and strengthen the U.S. defense industrial base. The contract covers five years, with two additional option years, providing long-term procurement certainty to support higher production, workforce expansion, facility investment, supply-chain improvements and cost savings. Specific missile quantities and delivery schedules have not been disclosed. Acting U.S. Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao said, “Maritime power requires weapons that are produced quickly and in large quantities.” Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael P. Duffey said the agreement would strengthen missile inventories and industrial production. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle highlighted the importance of maintaining adequate fleet inventories, while Van Hendrey, Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Munitions, linked the agreement to faster procurement and lower costs. Raytheon President Phil Jasper said the company has invested in facilities, its workforce and production automation to meet rising demand. Earlier framework agreements targeted annual SM-6 production of more than 500 missiles. The Navy's fiscal year 2027 budget request included $4.3 billion for 540 Standard Missiles. SM-6 Specifications and Capabilities The SM-6 is a multi-mission missile measuring approximately 6.6 meters (21.6 feet) long and weighing around 1,500 kilograms (3,300 pounds). Its solid-fuel propulsion system includes a Mk 72 booster and Mk 104 dual-thrust rocket motor. The missile exceeds Mach 3, with publicly reported speeds reaching Mach 3.5, and has a publicly reported range exceeding 240 kilometers (150 miles). Some open-source estimates cite longer ranges depending on the variant and mission profile. It carries an approximately 64-kilogram blast-fragmentation warhead and uses inertial navigation, command updates, and active and semi-active radar homing. Integrated with the U.S. Navy's Aegis combat system, it can engage aircraft, cruise missiles and surface ships and intercept ballistic missiles during their terminal flight phase. Raytheon describes the SM-6 as the only combat-proven munition capable of performing anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare and terminal-phase ballistic missile defense roles. It is deployed on Arleigh Burke-class destroyers and Ticonderoga-class cruisers through the Mk 41 Vertical Launch System. It has also been launched from land-based systems, including the U.S. Army's Typhon Mid-Range Capability launcher. Its air-launched derivative, the AIM-174B, is associated with the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet. Combat Use and Wider Missile Production Between October 2023 and January 2025, U.S. Navy surface combatants fired 80 SM-6 interceptors while countering attacks by Iran-backed Houthi forces against commercial and military shipping in the Middle East. The expenditure has contributed to efforts to replenish inventories and maintain sufficient missile supplies. The agreement follows a reported $20.7 billion AMRAAM contract signed in late September 2026, a recent Tomahawk weapon-system award and a $58.6 billion Lockheed Martin contract for Patriot interceptors awarded in July 2026. These contracts aim to provide sustained demand for expanding manufacturing facilities, hiring workers and strengthening critical-component supply chains. However, industry executives have noted that congressional appropriations are still necessary to fund new facilities and increased production capacity. The SM-6 award forms part of the wider U.S. effort to increase weapons output and maintain adequate inventories for military operations. The final production quantities and delivery schedule under the contract remain undisclosed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 12:50:38
World
TAITUNG, Taiwan, — Taiwan has received its first two newly built Lockheed Martin F-16C Fighting Falcon Block 70 fighters, which landed at Chihhang Air Base near Taitung around noon local time. The arrival marks the beginning of deliveries under Taiwan’s order for 66 aircraft valued at approximately $8 billion. The single-seat fighters, bearing serial numbers 6727 and 6728, arrived after an extended ferry flight from the United States via Hawaii and Guam. The aircraft will remain U.S. property until formal handover and acceptance procedures are completed. Extended Delivery Flight The fighters departed Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Greenville, South Carolina, in mid-August and reached Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam in Hawaii around August 20–21. They remained there for approximately six weeks and reportedly aborted at least two attempted departures for Guam before continuing across the Pacific on October 1. Neither Taiwanese nor U.S. authorities have disclosed the reason for the prolonged stop. The aircraft subsequently continued through Guam before reaching Taiwan. Taiwan’s F-16 Procurement Programme The United States approved the approximately $8 billion sale of 66 F-16C/D Block 70 fighters in 2019 through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme. The purchase forms part of Taiwan’s Peace Phoenix Soaring project, funded at approximately NT$247.2 billion between 2020 and 2026. It is the largest order placed to date for the Block 70 variant. Lockheed Martin unveiled the first completed aircraft for Taiwan in March 2025. Deliveries were originally scheduled to begin in 2023 and finish by the end of 2026 but were delayed by the relocation and restart of the production line, supply-chain disruptions and software integration issues. Taiwan’s Air Force has said another 63 aircraft remain on the production line in the United States. Defence Minister Wellington Koo stated that additional fighters beyond the first two would arrive before the end of 2026, with exact dates being coordinated with Washington. Delivery of the remaining aircraft is scheduled to continue through 2028. Integration With Taiwan’s Fighter Fleet The new fighters are scheduled to join the 7th Tactical Fighter Wing at Chihhang Air Base, strengthening air defence coverage in Taiwan’s eastern Hualien–Taitung area. They will operate alongside Taiwan’s 139 upgraded F-16A/B fighters, which have been modernised to the F-16V standard, as well as French-built Dassault Mirage 2000s and domestically produced AIDC F-CK-1 Ching-kuo aircraft. Both the upgraded F-16V fleet and the newly built Block 70 fighters use the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-83 Scalable Agile Beam Radar (SABR), an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar. F-16 Block 70 Capabilities The newly manufactured Block 70 features a structural service life of 12,000 flight hours, strengthened landing gear and conformal fuel tanks that increase fuel capacity and mission range while maintaining aerodynamic efficiency. Other key features include the General Electric F110-GE-129 engine, a modern digital cockpit and the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS), which can help prevent controlled flight into terrain by automatically recovering the aircraft under qualifying conditions. The aircraft’s updated radar and avionics provide modern target detection, tracking and mission-management capabilities. Global F-16 Production Lockheed Martin has delivered at least 37 F-16C/D Block 70 fighters to Bahrain, Bulgaria and Slovakia. Its published order book includes approximately 123 Block 70 and Block 72 aircraft for Bulgaria, Taiwan, Morocco, Jordan and Peru. The figure excludes a reported anticipated order for 40 F-16C/D Block 70 fighters for Turkey, which has not been incorporated into the company’s published backlog. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te welcomed the arrival, describing it as an important step in strengthening Taiwan’s air defence capabilities. The first two aircraft mark the beginning of deliveries under the 66-fighter procurement programme, with the remaining aircraft expected to arrive according to the production and acceptance schedule agreed between Taiwan and the United States.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-02 12:40:02
Space & Technology
CLEVELAND — NASA has awarded Modulate Space Corporation a $38 million firm-fixed-price contract to develop an integrated 5G and Wi-Fi 6 communications network for the Moon. The project will be overseen by NASA’s Glenn Research Center and is intended to support future permanent Moon Base operations under the Artemis program. The system will use standards-based 3GPP technology, similar to the technology used by mobile networks on Earth. The goal is to create a shared and scalable lunar communications network that can connect astronauts, rovers, landers and surface instruments, rather than requiring each mission to carry its own custom radio system. Two-Phase Development The project will be carried out in two phases. The first phase, running from October 1, 2026, through January 31, 2028, will involve developing and testing a “5G Network-in-a-Box” in the laboratory. The system will combine the 5G network equipment and software into a compact platform for testing before lunar deployment. The second phase is scheduled for November 30 through December 31, 2028. During this phase, an integrated 5G and Wi-Fi 6 network will fly to the lunar surface for a flight demonstration. Testing Communications on the Moon NASA will also study radio signal propagation on the lunar surface. The lunar South Pole, where future operations are planned, has challenging terrain including deep craters, steep mountains and permanently shadowed areas that can affect wireless communications. The planned network would allow different lunar users and equipment to share the same communications infrastructure. NASA is developing the technology as part of its broader effort to establish reliable communications for future long-term human and robotic operations on the Moon.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-01 16:06:27
U.S
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Air Force is seeking a dedicated missile warning system (MWS) for its F-15EX Eagle II fighter fleet to improve the aircraft's ability to detect incoming missiles, particularly infrared-guided heat-seeking weapons. The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center's Fighters and Advanced Aircraft Directorate issued a sources-sought notice on September 29, 2026, requesting information on an operationally qualified missile launch and approach warning system that can be rapidly integrated into the F-15EX. The system must provide timely warnings while limiting false alarms. F-15EX Already Has Provisions for an MWS Although the F-15EX entered service without a dedicated missile warning system, the aircraft already has infrastructure for one. The Air Force requires a proposed system to use six existing sensor locations. Two are horn-like positions below the cockpit canopy, two are located near the ends of the tail booms, and two provide additional upward and downward coverage. The aircraft already has associated data and power wiring and cooling provisions. The system must connect with the existing MIL-STD-1553 data bus and be installable and removable by Air Force maintenance personnel in the field without broader aircraft configuration changes. Closing an Infrared Detection Gap The F-15EX is equipped with BAE Systems' Eagle Passive/Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS), which is designed mainly to detect, locate and counter radar-based threats. However, infrared-homing missiles do not need to transmit radar signals. A dedicated MWS uses electro-optical sensors to detect missile launches and approaching threats, providing aircrews additional time to deploy flares, use other countermeasures or maneuver. The F-15EX's requirement is notable because related export versions already have missile warning capability. The F-15QA operated by Qatar and F-15SA operated by Saudi Arabia, which are related to the F-15EX design, use missile warning systems. Singapore's F-15SG also has such capability. One system used on the F-15SA and F-15QA is the AN/AAR-57 Common Missile Warning System (CMWS) from BAE Systems. Versions of the AN/AAR-57 are also used on U.S. Army AH-64, UH-60 and CH-47 helicopters. The Air Force notice, however, does not specify the AN/AAR-57 or any other system. Recent Combat Experience The requirement follows recent combat experience involving infrared-guided threats. In April 2026, an F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down over Iran. Reports indicated that a shoulder-fired heat-seeking surface-to-air missile, or MANPADS, was involved. The F-15E also lacks a dedicated MWS, and reports indicated that its defensive system provided only about half a second of warning. In Yemen, Houthi forces have also used infrared-related targeting capabilities and have claimed to have shot down a Saudi F-15SA, which is equipped with a missile warning system. The incident shows that an MWS provides an additional defensive capability but does not eliminate the threat from infrared-guided weapons. F-15EX Fleet The Air Force had 22 F-15EX aircraft in its inventory as of late September 2026 and plans to operate approximately 267 to 268 aircraft. Boeing is under contract to build 120 aircraft. On September 29, the Air Force awarded Boeing a $2.38 billion contract for 22 additional F-15EX fighters under Lot 7, bringing the contracted total to 120. Individual aircraft cost more than $100 million, excluding separately purchased engines. The current MWS effort remains in the market-research phase and is not a commitment to purchase a specific system. Industry responses to the notice are due by November 12, 2026. The Air Force has not yet identified a preferred system or announced a contract award timeline.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-01 16:02:33
U.S
OAK HARBOR, Wash. — The U.S. Navy recently evaluated the General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) MQ-9B SeaGuardian at the Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Force (MPRF) Commander’s Operational Group (COG) at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island (NASWI) in Oak Harbor, Washington. The evaluation focused on how the SeaGuardian can support wide-area maritime surveillance, patrol and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations. The Navy is assessing the aircraft as a potential “force multiplier” for the MPRF and as part of an ongoing capability assessment supporting the U.S. 7th Fleet. The SeaGuardian is the maritime variant of the MQ-9B Group 5 remotely piloted aircraft system (RPAS). The Navy currently operates it under a Company-Owned, Company-Operated (COCO) contract with GA-ASI. This arrangement allows the Navy to conduct capability assessments and evaluate the aircraft in operational scenarios. The MQ-9B SeaGuardian has supported aircraft carrier pre-deployment workups and participated in major fleet exercises, including Northern Edge and the Integrated Battle Problem. The aircraft has also been displayed alongside the crewed P-8A Poseidon to demonstrate how uncrewed and crewed maritime patrol aircraft can operate as part of the same force. Anti-Submarine Warfare and Surveillance SeaGuardian is designed to take on long-endurance maritime surveillance missions and support crewed maritime patrol aircraft. In its standard maritime surveillance and ASW configuration, the aircraft has a 1,200-nautical-mile mission radius. The aircraft uses an open-architecture system equipped with a centerline wide-area maritime radar, electronic support measures and a self-contained ASW mission kit. For ASW missions, four wing stations can carry up to four sonobuoy dispenser pods. The configuration can carry, release and monitor up to 40 A-size or 80 G-size sonobuoys, with operators managing the data from a single remotely piloted aircraft. The SeaGuardian can provide operational and acoustic data to naval command centers, supporting the detection and tracking of underwater and surface threats. Its modular sensor configuration can also support missions such as search and rescue, disaster relief and law enforcement. The latest evaluation at Whidbey Island is part of the Navy's continuing assessment of how the MQ-9B SeaGuardian could expand the capabilities of its maritime patrol and reconnaissance forces.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-01 15:34:34
World
KYIV, — Ukrainian defense technology company SkyFall has officially introduced the Thor Hammer, a new heavy strike unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in the middle-range strike class. The system has already been used on the battlefield. Thor Hammer Specifications The Thor Hammer is being produced in variants with ranges of 350 km and up to 600 km (373 miles). It has a 3.5-meter (11.5-foot) wingspan, a 3-meter (9.8-foot) length and a maximum speed of 180 km/h (112 mph). The UAV is designed to carry a 40–50 kg (88–110 lb) high-explosive warhead. It can be launched using either a catapult system or a launch booster. Navigation and Terminal Guidance The UAV uses a combination of satellite, inertial and backup positioning systems. SkyFall says much of its core electronics was developed internally. For the final stage of a strike, the Thor Hammer uses artificial intelligence and computer vision for terminal guidance and trajectory correction. According to SkyFall, the system can continue its trajectory correction even if video and radio communications are completely lost. When communications are available, the UAV can be remotely operated from distant command posts. It can use Starlink or other secure communications systems, depending on the mission. Cost and Production SkyFall has reported a price of $25,000–$30,000 per UAV, depending on configuration. The Thor Hammer has been codified by Ukraine’s Ministry of Defense, clearing it for procurement. The company plans to increase production to 5,000 units per month by the end of 2026. SkyFall also provides proprietary software, operator and technician training, and 24/7 technical support. Future Development SkyFall is developing domestic engines for the middle-strike class to reduce reliance on external propulsion suppliers. The company is also working on an extended-range version of the Thor Hammer designed to strike targets at distances of more than 1,000 km (621 miles).
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-01 15:31:15
Europe
SCOTLAND — BAE Systems has successfully completed live field trials of its Anti Threat System (BATS) in Scotland, demonstrating the system’s ability to detect, identify and respond to uncrewed aerial threats through a unified command-and-control architecture. The trials demonstrated the integration of electronic warfare and kinetic gun systems within BATS. BAE Systems said the testing validated the system’s ability to coordinate the detection of aerial threats and deliver an appropriate response through an integrated command-and-control system. The development comes as governments increase spending on counter-drone capabilities following lessons from conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. BAE Systems said its team progressed BATS from the initial conceptual phase to field-based integration and deployment testing in eight months. Three Scenarios Tested in Scotland The live trials were designed around three scenarios to test different parts of the BATS operational process. Detection and Situational Awareness The first scenario tested BATS’ ability to combine information from multiple sensors into a common operational picture. This allowed operators to detect, identify and track aerial objects while distinguishing potential threats from non-threatening activity. Electronic Warfare Response The second scenario focused on the system’s non-kinetic response capability. BAE Systems tested the integration of electronic warfare and software-defined radio technologies, allowing operators to deploy electronic effects against targets that had been confirmed by operators in near real time. Full Sense-to-Effect Chain The third scenario tested the complete sense-to-effect chain in a more complex tactical environment. Operators identified different categories of drones and then deployed the appropriate countermeasure for each confirmed threat. The trial also demonstrated an integrated gun system alongside the electronic-warfare capability. Designed for Mobile and Networked Operations The trials also demonstrated the system’s scalability and mobility. BAE Systems said BATS can be rapidly deployed, dismantled and re-established at different locations to meet changing operational requirements. The system is intended to provide layered protection for military forces, critical national infrastructure and other high-value assets. BAE Systems also examined how BATS could support future networked operations, including the secure sharing of threat information between multiple locations. “Throughout the trial, we also explored how BATS could support future networked operations, enabling threat information to be shared securely across multiple locations. This enables operators to build a broader understanding of the airspace, improving coordination and response across distributed sites,” said Louise Heywood, Head of Strategy at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence & Land. The Scotland trials provide a field-based demonstration of BATS’ ability to combine sensor information, electronic warfare and kinetic effects under a unified command-and-control architecture.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-01 15:23:37Search
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