U.S
KIRKLAND, Washington, — U.S. radar developer Echodyne has integrated its EchoShield radar into BAE Systems’ Anti Threat System (BATS) following successful live trials in Scotland. The integration will provide persistent radar data to help detect, classify and track uncrewed aerial threats and support defensive responses. The two-week Scottish trials demonstrated BATS' ability to connect multiple sensors and defensive systems through a unified command-and-control architecture. Testing included drone detection, multi-sensor data fusion, electronic warfare countermeasures and a complete engagement involving an integrated gun system. BAE Systems is now advancing BATS towards operational deployment. EchoShield Radar Specifications EchoShield uses Echodyne's proprietary Metamaterials Electronically Scanned Array (MESA) technology. The medium-range, software-defined pulse-Doppler radar operates in the Ku-band (15.4–16.6 GHz) and provides continuous tracking, threat classification and precise location data. It offers a 130-degree azimuth and 90-degree elevation field of view, tracking accuracy of less than 0.5 degrees, a 10 Hz update rate and the ability to track more than 1,000 objects simultaneously. Its typical tracking ranges are 2.7–5 km for Group 1 drones, 4.8–7 km for Group 2 and up to 11–12.5 km for Group 3, depending on radar cross-section. The radar weighs approximately 18–19 kg and consumes less than 250 watts, allowing deployment at fixed sites, temporary installations and mobile platforms. BATS Connects Sensors and Countermeasures BAE Systems' BATS is a modular, software-defined counter-uncrewed aerial system that connects existing and future sensors, intelligence systems and defensive effectors through a secure data core. Its open architecture supports operations ranging from local point defence to wider-area protection for military, government and critical infrastructure. BAE Systems executive Louise Heywood said BATS reduces operators' workload by combining drone identification, confirmation and targeting in one system. Echodyne CEO Eben Frankenberg said EchoShield provides the stable and accurate radar tracks needed for faster defensive decisions. Echodyne Expands Production Capacity Echodyne radars are already integrated into hundreds of counter-drone systems worldwide, with many available through the Joint Interagency Task Force 401 C-UAS Marketplace. The company has also opened an advanced manufacturing facility in Washington State, designed to eventually produce more than 30,000 radars annually to meet growing demand. The integration adds EchoShield's radar tracking capabilities to BAE Systems' BATS network, combining drone detection, threat assessment and defensive responses within a single architecture.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 16:14:17
Europe
OSLO, — The Royal Navy has awarded British defence technology company Arondite a multi-million-pound contract to deploy its Cobalt artificial intelligence software across the UK Commando Force (UKCF). Chief of the Defence Staff Sir Richard Knighton announced the agreement aboard HMS Prince of Wales during the Atlantic Future Forum in Oslo. Cobalt is a mission orchestration platform that combines data from sensors, autonomous platforms and intelligence sources into a single system. Its AI capabilities are designed to speed up mission planning and decision-making in contested environments. Its open architecture also allows new hardware and AI tools to be integrated. The system will support coordination between British forces and NATO partners. Arondite Expands into Norway Alongside the contract, Arondite announced its first international office in Oslo, backed by a planned £35 million (approximately NOK 430 million) investment over five years. The investment will support cooperation with the Norwegian Armed Forces, local industry and European allies. British and Norwegian units will jointly test Cobalt during upcoming maritime deployments under the Joint Expeditionary Force's Northern Navies Initiative. Arondite CEO Will Blyth said Norwegian forces regularly operate alongside UK commandos, making compatible technology important for joint missions. This is Arondite's second major military contract announcement in 2026, following the deployment of Cobalt across the British Army's 16 Air Assault Brigade Combat Team. The company expects to double its workforce to 150 employees by summer 2027. UK AI Minister Kanishka Narayan and Defence Readiness and Industry Minister Luke Pollard welcomed the expansion and growing demand for British defence technology. £100 Million for UK Commando Force The software deployment comes as the UK Ministry of Defence provides an additional £100 million to the UK Commando Force under the Defence Investment Plan. The funding will strengthen special maritime and amphibious warfare capabilities for operations in the High North. The force includes nine units, among them 40, 42, 43, 45 and 47 Commando, supported by dedicated artillery and engineer regiments. Norwegian Joint Headquarters chief Vice Admiral Rune Andersen said the Royal Marines are adapting their training and operational planning to prioritise the region. The additional funding forms part of the UK's wider £298 billion defence investment plan over four years. UK-Norway Defence Cooperation The Ministry of Defence also highlighted the Lunna House agreement and the joint Type 26 anti-submarine frigate programme as key parts of bilateral defence cooperation. The Type 26 programme supports approximately 4,000 jobs across the UK supply chain, including more than 2,000 in Scotland. The Cobalt deployment and Norwegian expansion are aimed at improving interoperability and operational readiness between British and Norwegian forces on NATO's northern flank.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 16:00:06
Space & Technology
CAPE CANAVERAL, — Eight new Globalstar communications satellites manufactured by MDA Space and Rocket Lab have successfully completed their initial functional tests in low Earth orbit (LEO), marking an important milestone in the company's 17-satellite replenishment programme. The satellites were launched on August 15, 2026, aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida. MDA Space, the mission's prime contractor, confirmed the successful tests on November 10. Two satellites have already started using electric propulsion to raise their orbits, with Rocket Lab supporting the process. The remaining six are undergoing payload and spacecraft testing while their orbital planes align. Further orbit adjustments and testing will take place before they enter their operational positions. Final Nine Satellites Complete Assembly MDA Space has also completed the final assembly and integration of the remaining nine satellites at its facility in Montréal, Quebec. This brings the manufacturing and integration work for all 17 spacecraft to completion. MDA Space is responsible for assembly, integration and testing, while Rocket Lab designed and built the satellite platforms under a subcontract worth approximately $143 million. The overall programme was awarded to MDA Space in 2022 at a reported value of approximately $327 million for the initial 17 satellites. The mission also marks MDA Space's first delivery of a commercial low Earth orbit communications constellation as prime contractor. Satellites to Support Apple's iPhone Satellite Services Once deployed, the 17 satellites will replenish Globalstar's existing HIBLEO constellation, which supports direct-to-device satellite communications and Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Apple relies on Globalstar's network for satellite-enabled features on supported iPhones and Apple Watches, including Emergency SOS, satellite messaging and location sharing. Apple has historically secured long-term agreements for access to up to 85% of Globalstar's constellation bandwidth. Amazon's $11.57 Billion Globalstar Acquisition The satellite deployment is taking place alongside a major change in Globalstar's ownership. Amazon announced an agreement to acquire Globalstar in April 2026 for approximately $11.57 billion. The acquisition would bring Globalstar's operational satellites, infrastructure and mobile-satellite spectrum licences into Amazon's expanding Amazon Leo satellite communications network. The U.S. Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved the transfer of relevant Globalstar licences in late October 2026. The transaction remains subject to other regulatory approvals and closing conditions, including specific satellite deployment milestones, with completion expected in 2027. Amazon and Apple have also established a long-term agreement to ensure continuity of satellite services for supported Apple devices through Amazon Leo. Further testing and orbital adjustments will continue before the eight satellites enter full operational service, supporting the replenishment of Globalstar's existing network.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 15:58:41
U.S
AVENTURA, Fla., — The U.S. Army has awarded Safe Pro Group Inc. (Nasdaq: SPAI) a $2.5 million prime contract to integrate its explosive-threat detection software onto Anduril Industries' Ghost-X drones. The system will provide aerial reconnaissance to identify battlefield threats before they reach U.S. Army M1 Abrams tanks. Announced on November 10, the contract marks Safe Pro's first direct prime contract with the U.S. government. The company previously worked as a subcontractor, including a $1.3 million agreement with Forterra in June 2026 to equip uncrewed ground vehicles with similar detection technology. Its government contract awards for 2026 have now exceeded $5 million. How the Drone-Based Detection System Works Under the contract, Safe Pro will integrate its Ground Truth Air software, described by the company as an AI-powered Super Intelligence (SI) system, directly into the Ghost-X's onboard computer. The software processes live drone video to identify and geolocate more than 150 types of explosive threats, including landmines, anti-personnel mines, cluster munitions and first-person-view (FPV) attack drones. When a threat is detected, the system marks its location and sends coordinates to the military's ATAK (Android Tactical Assault Kit) mapping application and Anduril's Lattice command-and-control software. This allows soldiers and armoured units to receive threat information during reconnaissance operations. AI Software Trained on Ukraine Conflict Data Safe Pro says its detection models were trained using more than 3.2 million drone images collected in Ukraine. The dataset produced over 60,200 confirmed threat detections across approximately 16,400 hectares (40,520 acres). The company has not disclosed the software's detection accuracy or false-alarm rate. Safe Pro Chairman and CEO Dan Erdberg described the contract as a major milestone for the company and said it would work with Anduril to deploy its threat-detection technology on Ghost-X drones. Ghost-X Selected for U.S. Army Reconnaissance The U.S. Army selected Anduril's Ghost-X in 2024 for a company-level small drone requirement under its Medium Range Reconnaissance (MRR) program. The platform is designed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions with Army maneuver units. In April 2026, the Pentagon announced a separate $16.8 million contract for Ghost-X hardware and components. The new software integration contract was awarded through the Army's Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) process under the topic "Ground Threat Detection through Aerial Reconnaissance." This procurement approach allows the military to acquire commercial technologies for defence requirements. Anduril's General Manager of Tactical Effects, Daniel Leighton, said Ghost-X's modular design supports third-party software integration. He added that Safe Pro's technology will provide soldiers with faster situational awareness, supporting tank survivability and reconnaissance missions. The project reflects the U.S. Department of Defense's continued interest in AI-based systems that can identify mines and roadside explosives with accuracy comparable to trained military personnel.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 15:04:52
India
NEW DELHI, — The Indian Army is set to begin field trials of indigenous jet-powered kamikaze drones at the Pokhran test range in Rajasthan this week. The trials are part of a ₹2,000 crore Fast Track Procurement (FTP) programme to acquire 540 high-speed loitering munitions. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC), chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, granted Acceptance of Necessity (AoN) for the Jet Based Kamikaze Drone System (JBKDS) on October 26, 2026, according to reports. The procurement is restricted to Indian companies to support domestic defence manufacturing. 11 Indian Companies Shortlisted Around 60 companies responded to the Army's Request for Information (RFI) issued in July 2026. Of these, 18 submitted bids, while 11 advanced through the qualification process. The shortlisted companies include Bharat Forge-VEDA Aeronautics, Adani Defence, NIBE, SMPP-NewSpace Research and Technologies (NRT), Tonbo, Munitions India Limited (MIL) and Apollo Micro Systems. The Army is seeking a complete operational package covering the drones, dedicated transport vehicles and mission planning systems. Jet-Powered Drones Offer Higher Speed The proposed drones can reach speeds of approximately 450 kmph, compared with 150–200 kmph for conventional propeller-driven loitering munitions. Their higher speed reduces the time available for enemy air defence systems to detect, track and intercept them, making them suitable for rapid precision strikes. SMPP Has Already Delivered 106 Drones India has already received jet-powered kamikaze drones from domestic manufacturer SMPP. The company completed delivery of 106 Peacekeeper (Agniveg) drones to the Indian Army, including 100 operational units and six training drones. The turbojet-powered system has demonstrated speeds of up to 450 kmph and an operational range of approximately 180 km. VEDA Aeronautics has also developed the Sureshastra Mk-1 jet-powered loitering munition for Indian Air Force programmes. The new 540-unit procurement programme will allow the Army to evaluate different indigenous designs and expand the number of qualified domestic suppliers. It is also aimed at developing India's industrial capacity for producing high-speed precision-strike drones.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 14:57:23
India Approves ₹64.05 Crore for Astrome’s Indigenous AI-Powered Space Intelligence Satellite Network
India
BENGALURU, — The Indian government has approved ₹64.05 crore in financial support for Bengaluru-based Astrome Technologies Pvt Ltd to develop an indigenous Artificial Intelligence-enabled Electronic Intelligence (AI-ELINT) satellite constellation for national security applications. The agreement was signed by the Technology Development Board (TDB) under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). The funding comes under the government's Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) Fund and is structured as Optionally Convertible Debt, rather than a direct grant. The total project cost is ₹128.11 crore, with government support covering approximately half of the investment. The programme aims to advance the technology from Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4 to TRL 9, the stage at which a system is demonstrated and validated for operational use. 50 kg Microsatellites to Form AI-ELINT Constellation Astrome plans to develop and progressively deploy 50 kg-class microsatellites in Low Earth Orbit (LEO). Operating as a constellation, the satellites are designed to provide wider geographical coverage and more frequent observation of designated areas, supporting persistent surveillance. The system will combine three main technologies: Indigenous ELINT Payload: Designed to detect, intercept and analyse electronic signals across a broad frequency range. AI-Based Ground Processing: Artificial intelligence software will process data collected by satellites to improve the speed and efficiency of intelligence analysis. Inter-Satellite Communication: Direct links between satellites will allow them to exchange information and operate as an integrated network. Project Targets TRL-9 Operational Readiness The programme includes technology development, engineering, system integration, testing and validation to advance the system from TRL-4 to TRL-9. It combines satellite engineering, electronic intelligence, artificial intelligence and secure space-based communications. TDB Secretary Rajesh Kumar Pathak said developing such advanced platforms requires sustained innovation, rigorous validation and long-term investment. He added that the RDI Fund is supporting Indian companies developing advanced technologies for the country's strategic requirements. An authorised representative of Astrome Technologies said the financial support would accelerate the development and integration of critical technologies for the AI-enabled space intelligence programme. The project marks another step in India's effort to strengthen indigenous space-based intelligence, surveillance and secure communication capabilities through domestic private-sector participation.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 14:46:47
U.S
CHINA LAKE, California, — The U.S. Navy has completed the initial filling of seven Tomahawk cruise missile warheads at the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD) in China Lake, California. The WDU-36/B warheads were filled with PBXN-107 explosives. If they pass first-article inspections, they will become the facility's first production units. The development is part of a wider effort to increase Tomahawk production. In August 2026, the Navy awarded Raytheon a $22.9 billion contract to accelerate manufacturing, with a target of producing more than 1,000 missiles annually. China Lake aims to supply warheads ahead of Raytheon's requirements to keep deliveries to the fleet on schedule. New Mixer to Increase Production Capacity On November 9, NAWCWD installed a new 300-gallon mixer, manufactured by B&P Littleford, at the rebuilt Motor Assembly Compound. The equipment is expected to become operational around June 2027. Its mixing bowl weighs nearly 20,000 pounds. The seven initial warheads were produced using an older 150-gallon mixer. The new facility layout will allow crews to cast and cure warheads in separate areas simultaneously. It will also reduce the transportation time for mixed explosive material from approximately one hour to just 15 minutes. The rebuilt compound replaces facilities damaged in the 2019 earthquakes, with reconstruction beginning in 2022. Navy and Industry Share Production Responsibilities General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems manufactures the warhead cases, while L3Harris currently fills them with explosives. Under a multiyear public-private partnership signed in September 2026, NAWCWD will manufacture a portion of the warheads alongside L3Harris. NAWCWD also purchased materials with long delivery times in advance, as some components can take up to a year to arrive. The Tomahawk Technical Project Office has spent much of the past year updating warhead specifications and the approved supplier list. The production effort initially involved retrieving an empty warhead case from a museum approximately a year ago. Technicians cleaned it, demonstrated the filling process and used testing, imaging and X-rays to verify the results. New Personnel for Production Expansion More than a dozen new employees are joining NAWCWD's Energetics Processing Branch. They will undergo approximately one year of training under experienced technicians before working independently, with training covering safety, quality control and production procedures. Rear Adm. Eric Gardner, principal deputy for Portfolio Acquisition Executive Munitions, said increasing weapons production requires more than contracts and funding, highlighting the importance of personnel, infrastructure, materials and cooperation between the Navy and industry. The expansion will give the Navy an additional source of Tomahawk warhead production and support Raytheon's plan to increase missile deliveries to the U.S. fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 14:39:13
World
KYIV, — Ukraine's locally developed Lima Quant electronic warfare system reportedly diverted two Russian Oreshnik ballistic missiles targeting the Kyiv region during an attack on May 24, 2026, according to Ukrainian military personnel and developers cited by The New York Times. A commander of Ukraine's Night Watch territorial defence unit, using the call sign Alchemist, said the unit received advance warning of the launch from U.S. intelligence. An operator then activated Lima Quant to interfere with the missiles' navigation systems. According to the commander, one missile struck garages near Bila Tserkva, around 80 kilometres south of Kyiv, away from its intended military target. The second broke apart in flight, with debris falling in Russian-occupied Donetsk. Ukrainian emergency services reported damage to three garages and an enterprise building. No casualties were reported. The New York Times said it could not independently verify the interception claims. How Lima Quant Works Developed by Cascade Systems with Ukraine's military, Lima Quant uses electromagnetic signals and GPS spoofing to interfere with the navigation of incoming missiles and drones. Instead of simply blocking GPS signals, it transmits false coordinates, directing affected navigation systems to Lima, Peru, more than 12,000 kilometres from Kyiv. An advanced version was deployed around Kyiv in August 2025, using networked antennas to create electromagnetic coverage against aerial threats. Civilian GPS Disruptions and System Performance The spoofing also affects civilian devices. Kyiv residents have reported taxi applications calculating journeys of 12,276 minutes, Garmin watches recording runs in Lima, and BMW navigation systems showing apparent journeys of 10,000 kilometres. Cascade Systems claims the technology diverted more than 30 cruise missiles and 10,000 drones during the first three months of 2026. Alchemist also claimed that 33 of 62 Russian Kinzhal missiles fired into areas covered by Lima Quant broke apart in midair, while others were diverted. These figures have not been independently verified. Russia has reportedly adapted some weapons with Chinese antennas designed to detect and avoid electronic jamming. In response, Cascade Systems and Night Watch have updated Lima Quant by combining GPS spoofing with additional high-frequency signals. With Ukraine facing shortages of conventional air-defence interceptors, Lima Quant provides another layer of protection against Russian aerial attacks. However, its reported interception figures remain subject to independent verification. Correct the dateline and attack dateClarify the missile outcome wording
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 14:31:27
World
DOHA, — French defence technology company Harmattan AI and Qatar’s Barzan Holdings have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to advance autonomous very short-range air defence (VSHORAD) systems for Qatar and international markets. The agreement focuses on field demonstrations and further development of Harmattan AI’s GOBI TEMPEST interceptor and its associated mission orchestration system. The partnership aims to strengthen Qatar’s ability to counter emerging drone threats and protect critical infrastructure. GOBI TEMPEST Interceptor Capabilities The GOBI TEMPEST is designed to counter Group 2 and Group 3 aerial threats, including larger unmanned aircraft. It combines ground-based radar, electro-optical and infrared sensors, command-and-control (C2) software and an autonomous interceptor aircraft. According to Harmattan AI, the interceptor reaches a maximum speed of 310 km/h, with a cruise speed of 215 km/h and an operational range of up to 12 kilometres. It carries an 800-gram explosive warhead, while the complete system weighs approximately 5 kg, including batteries and warhead. The system operates day and night in all weather conditions. Its onboard guidance and computer vision support autonomous interception, while human-on-the-loop oversight and integration with different command-and-control platforms provide additional operational control. The launch system can be ready for take-off in approximately three seconds. Qatar Expands Counter-Drone Cooperation Harmattan AI CEO and co-founder Mouad M’Ghari said autonomous and industrially scalable systems are important for protecting strategic sites against hostile drone swarms. Barzan Holdings Group CEO Eng. Mohammed Bin Bader Al Sadah said the partnership would combine Harmattan AI's autonomous technology expertise with Qatar's defence requirements to protect national sovereignty and critical infrastructure. Harmattan AI develops autonomous systems for air defence, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), strike, electronic warfare and command-and-control operations. Barzan Holdings manages Qatar's defence industry partnerships and investments. The MoU establishes a framework for demonstrations and further evaluation. No procurement quantities or testing schedule have been announced. The partnership also provides Harmattan AI with an opportunity to expand its presence in the Middle East.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 14:29:09
U.S
ARLINGTON, — U.S. defence contractor AeroVironment has secured a $405 million international order for its LOCUST X3 high-energy laser weapon systems from an undisclosed customer in the Middle East. Announced on November 11, the deal is a direct commercial sale, negotiated without going through the U.S. government's Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme. The order comes amid growing concerns over Shahed-series one-way attack drones, which have been used against energy facilities, airports, military installations and other infrastructure across the region. Large-scale drone attacks can place pressure on conventional air defence systems and increase the cost of interception. LOCUST X3 Laser System for Counter-Drone Defence The LOCUST X3 is a high-energy directed-energy weapon designed to engage Group 1 to Group 3 unmanned aircraft, ranging from small commercial drones to larger military UAVs weighing approximately 600 kg (1,320 pounds). The system can operate alongside radar, command-and-control networks and conventional weapons as part of a layered air defence network. Its main advantage is the lower cost of engagements compared with conventional missile interceptors, which can cost hundreds of thousands or millions of dollars per launch. Unlike missile systems, the laser does not require conventional ammunition. Its engagement capacity depends mainly on available electrical power and thermal management, allowing it to engage successive targets without traditional ammunition resupply. “Our customers need proven defenses they can field rapidly and sustain over time,” said Wahid Nawabi, AeroVironment's chairman, president and chief executive officer. He added that LOCUST X3 offers a different cost approach to defeating drones while preserving conventional interceptors for higher-end threats. Local Maintenance and Previous Military Orders As part of the agreement, AeroVironment plans to establish an in-country maintenance and sustainment depot. The facility will provide repairs, technical support, operator training and lifecycle services to improve maintenance response times. This is the company's second international LOCUST order. Its first foreign order, worth more than $50 million, was announced in September 2026. The company has not confirmed whether both orders involve the same customer. AeroVironment acquired the LOCUST technology through its 2025 acquisition of BlueHalo. The system is also being introduced into U.S. military operations. In September 2026, the U.S. Army awarded the company a nearly $500 million contract under its Enduring High Energy Laser (E-HEL) programme to supply LOCUST systems over several years. Earlier versions have also been mounted on Joint Light Tactical Vehicles and infantry squad vehicles. The U.S. Navy tested the technology aboard the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush in late 2025, where it successfully engaged multiple drones. The $405 million Middle East order adds to the growing international use of directed-energy weapons for countering drone threats. It also expands AeroVironment's position in the market for laser-based air defence systems.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 13:36:32
World
TEHRAN, — Iran's parliament is scheduled to debate an urgent bill on Sunday, November 15, that would remove the legal requirement for the country's Intelligence Minister to be a senior Islamic cleric. If approved, the change would allow a non-cleric to lead the Ministry of Intelligence for the first time since its establishment in 1983. The proposed amendment follows the March 2026 killing of Intelligence Minister Esmail Khatib in an Israeli airstrike. The ministry has remained without a permanent minister for nearly eight months and is currently operating under an acting chief whose identity has not been publicly disclosed. Proposed Changes to Intelligence Ministry Under a law introduced in 1983, the intelligence minister must hold the religious qualification of ijtihad, which allows a senior Islamic scholar to independently interpret Islamic law. Since the ministry began operations in 1984, all its permanent ministers have been clerics. Parliamentary presiding board spokesman Abbas Goudarzi said the urgent bill would be placed on the parliamentary agenda next week. The proposal also includes creating two new organizations within the ministry: an Intelligence Protection Organization responsible for internal security and an Ideological-Political Organization handling religious and ideological affairs. The heads of both organizations would be appointed directly by Supreme Leader Mojtaba Khamenei. The intelligence minister would continue to be nominated by the president and require parliamentary approval. Pourmohammadi Among Potential Candidates President Pezeshkian is reportedly considering several candidates for the vacant position. Mostafa Pourmohammadi, a senior cleric and former justice minister who served from 2013 to 2017, has emerged as a reported contender. He also served in intelligence and security positions and contested the 2024 presidential election. His possible appointment would mean the ministry could still be led by a cleric even if the legal requirement is removed. No official nomination has been announced. Parliamentary Approval Still Required The proposed legislation aims to widen the pool of candidates and address the prolonged leadership vacancy. However, it must receive approval from the full parliament and the Guardian Council before becoming law. If passed, the amendment would end the four-decade requirement for a clerical intelligence minister while introducing two new internal organizations under the direct appointment authority of the Supreme Leader. This would change both the eligibility requirements for the top post and the ministry's leadership structure.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 13:29:06
Europe
OSLO, — The Royal Navy will test Northrop Grumman’s YFQ-48A Talon Blue autonomous combat drone from a British aircraft carrier in 2027. The demonstration will examine how a jet-powered uncrewed aircraft can operate alongside the Navy's existing carrier air wing. First Sea Lord General Sir Gwyn Jenkins announced the plan on November 10 during the International Sea Power Conference aboard HMS Prince of Wales in Oslo, Norway. The Royal Navy is scheduled to sign a Statement of Intent with Northrop Grumman on November 12, covering preparations for the trials under Project Vanquish. The demonstration in UK waters will include a carrier launch. Project Vanquish Targets Carrier Operations Launched in September 2025, Project Vanquish aims to demonstrate how autonomous combat aircraft can operate from Queen Elizabeth-class carriers without catapults or arresting wires. Unlike U.S. supercarriers, British carriers use a 13-degree ski-jump ramp and are designed for short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) aircraft. Operating and recovering a jet-powered drone without conventional launch and landing systems remains a key technical challenge. Talon Blue Completes Autonomous Flight The Talon Blue (YFQ-48A) is a single-turbofan, low-observable demonstrator developed by Northrop Grumman and its subsidiary Scaled Composites. Designed as a lower-cost, attritable platform, it is intended for higher-risk missions. The aircraft completed its first fully autonomous flight on October 3, 2026, at Mojave Air and Space Port in California. The flight included taxiing, take-off, aerial manoeuvres and landing. Its design includes a high air intake, wide wheelbase and integrated weapons bay. Its exact unit cost has not been disclosed. Integration With F-35B Fighters The trial supports the Royal Navy's Hybrid Navy and Maritime Aviation Transformation plans, which aim to increase the use of uncrewed aircraft alongside crewed platforms. The future carrier air wing is expected to combine autonomous drones with F-35B stealth fighters and helicopters. The Royal Navy has already tested propeller-driven drones, including the General Atomics Mojave and Tekever AR5, from its carriers. However, Talon Blue would be a major step towards operating jet-powered collaborative combat aircraft from British flight decks. The 2027 demonstration could also provide useful information for other navies, including India, whose INS Vikrant uses a similar ski-jump carrier configuration without catapults or conventional arresting wires. The upcoming trials will help establish the technical requirements for operating and recovering autonomous jet aircraft from British carriers and their safe integration with existing naval aviation assets.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 13:18:18
U.S
WASHINGTON, — Poland is moving closer to securing a permanent U.S. military base, with a final White House decision expected in early December. Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz announced the development after meeting U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth at the Pentagon on November 10. Kosiniak-Kamysz described the Pentagon's response as a “green light”, saying Hegseth told him that “everything is going in a good direction.” However, final approval rests with U.S. President Donald Trump. The Polish minister called a permanent American troop presence an “absolute priority” and described Poland as a strategic partner of the United States. Four Locations Considered for U.S. Base Poland has proposed Bydgoszcz, Poznań, Szczecin and Wrocław as potential locations. All four cities are west of the Vistula River and have existing military infrastructure. Bydgoszcz and Szczecin host NATO command facilities, while Poznań houses the U.S. Army's forward headquarters at Camp Kościuszko, established in 2023. Wrocław offers access to military training grounds at Żagań and Świętoszów, as well as the A4 motorway and airport infrastructure suitable for military transport. The proposed installation could accommodate up to 25,000 people, including approximately 5,000 permanently assigned U.S. troops, their families and support personnel. Poland has offered to finance construction and supporting infrastructure, estimated at 15 billion to 17 billion zlotys ($3.8 billion to $4.4 billion). Around 10,000 American troops are currently stationed in Poland, mainly on rotational deployments. Warsaw wants to maintain approximately 10,000 rotational troops alongside 5,000 permanently assigned personnel. NATO Strategy and Defence Industry Cooperation The proposal aligns with the Trump administration's NATO 3.0 strategy, which expects European allies to take greater responsibility for conventional defence while the United States shifts more attention to other regions. Poland is approaching defence spending of 5% of GDP. Hegseth praised the country's military investments and its contribution to NATO's eastern flank. Both officials also signed a Statement of Intent to expand bilateral defence industrial cooperation. Warsaw is seeking to attract American defence manufacturers through production facilities and joint ventures in Europe. Pentagon Supports Poland's Tomahawk Missile Request Kosiniak-Kamysz also confirmed that the Pentagon had issued a positive recommendation for Poland's request to purchase Tomahawk cruise missiles and launchers. The long-range precision missiles have an approximate range of 1,600 kilometres. Final authorization rests with the U.S. Congress, which could review the request in early 2027. The development follows Washington's October decision to select Poland for the first Patriot PAC-3 missile maintenance facility outside the United States. The project is expected to cost approximately 1 billion zlotys (€227 million). Once operational, it will allow European operators to maintain interceptor missiles locally instead of routinely sending them to the United States. Final White House Approval Pending Despite the Pentagon's positive response, the permanent base proposal has not received final U.S. approval. The Pentagon's official readout of the November 10 meeting highlighted defence industrial cooperation and Poland's defence spending but did not mention the proposed base. Working-level teams from both countries are continuing discussions on potential locations and preparations for an agreement. The White House decision expected in early December will determine whether the proposal moves forward.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 13:11:05
U.S
Northern Mariana Islands — The U.S. Air Force is evaluating a proposal to conduct more than 6,000 military aircraft operations annually across four airfields in the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI). On October 28, 2026, the Department of the Air Force announced plans to prepare an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) to assess the proposal's effects on local communities, the economy and the environment. The review covers Saipan International Airport, Tinian International Airport, Tinian North Field and Rota International Airport. The islands are located less than 100 nautical miles north of major U.S. military installations on Guam. Their proximity would allow American forces to practise rapid aircraft and personnel movements between multiple locations, supporting the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) strategy. The approach aims to disperse forces across smaller airfields so operations can continue if a primary base is attacked. Under the main proposal, each airfield could support up to 1,200 fixed-wing aircraft and drone operations and 320 helicopter operations annually, totalling 6,080 operations. An alternative would increase the total to 7,136 operations per year. Exercises would take place several times annually, lasting several weeks each. Each location could accommodate up to 1,000 personnel and require up to 550,000 gallons of aviation fuel, alongside temporary facilities and support infrastructure. The proposal does not include permanent construction or changes to existing airspace. Tinian North Field Restoration Tinian North Field is a historic World War II airfield used by the 509th Composite Group. B-29 bombers departed from the airfield for the atomic bombing missions against Hiroshima and Nagasaki in August 1945. Restoration began in late 2023, covering runway, pavement, road, port, fuel pipeline and utility improvements. A $409 million task order was awarded in early 2024 for airfield pavement and transportation upgrades. Military engineering units, including RED HORSE squadrons, have continued the work through 2026. Public Consultation and Timeline The Air Force will hold public meetings on Saipan on November 18, Tinian on November 19 and Rota on November 21, 2026. Written comments can be submitted through CATE EIS by November 29, 2026. The environmental review will examine aircraft noise, environmental effects, civilian airport operations, public safety and cultural resources. A draft EIS is expected in fall 2027, followed by the final statement in mid-2028. The findings will help the Air Force decide whether to proceed with the proposal.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-12 13:03:37
Europe
PORTSMOUTH, UK — The Royal Navy has awarded Saab UK a £15 million contract to supply Sea Giraffe 1X 3D radars for its uncrewed surface vessels (USVs). The radars will be installed on K3 Scout autonomous boats manufactured by Kraken Technology Group to detect, track and classify drones and other airborne threats. Before the contract award, Saab and Kraken conducted trials both on land and at sea. The tests demonstrated that the integrated system could autonomously detect and track airborne targets in challenging maritime conditions. The boats will operate independently or alongside crewed warships, extending surveillance coverage and providing early warning of threats to naval vessels, commercial shipping, ports and critical infrastructure. Sea Giraffe 1X Radar and K3 Scout The Sea Giraffe 1X is a lightweight 3D radar weighing less than 150 kg. It refreshes its full search volume every second and can detect and track airborne targets, including small drones. The radar will be fitted to the 8.4-metre K3 Scout, which can reach speeds of 55 knots and travel up to 650 nautical miles. Its modular bay supports payloads weighing up to 600 kg, allowing the Navy to switch between surveillance, counter-drone and strike missions. Kraken CEO Mal Crease said the modular design allows the Royal Navy to change the boat's mission without modifying the platform. Royal Navy Captain Adam Ballard said the radar would help detect hostile airborne targets earlier and improve operational awareness. Part of Royal Navy's Hybrid Fleet Programme The K3 Scout is part of Project BEEHIVE, the Royal Navy's programme for testing and integrating autonomous maritime systems. In March 2026, Kraken received a £12.3 million contract to deliver 20 K3 Scout boats. The programme supports the UK's wider £1.5 billion investment in developing a hybrid naval force combining crewed and uncrewed vessels. On November 5, 2026, the Royal Navy commissioned its 1st Autonomous Squadron at Naval Base Portsmouth, establishing a dedicated unit for uncrewed maritime operations. Andy Fraser, Saab UK's group managing director, said the partnership with Kraken had moved from concept to operational adoption at exceptional speed. The £15 million contract will support further development and integration of radar-equipped autonomous boats into Royal Navy operations, strengthening the service's ability to deploy crewed warships and autonomous vessels together.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-11 16:44:06
World
ABU DHABI, — Ukraine is seeking at least 10 years of financial support from Western partners to maintain an 800,000-strong army after the war with Russia ends. The proposal aims to ensure that Kyiv can defend itself against any future Russian military offensive. According to a senior Ukrainian official cited by Agence France-Presse (AFP), long-term funding is considered essential to Ukraine's future security. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has previously said that the country's war-damaged economy cannot independently sustain a military of this size. Funding and Military Strength The proposed 800,000-person force was supported in principle by European leaders during discussions in December 2025. Ukraine now wants to turn that understanding into a concrete, decade-long financial commitment. Some late-2026 estimates put Ukraine's current military strength at 880,000 to 900,000 personnel. Zelenskyy has also discussed moving towards a contract-based military after the war, with higher salaries to retain personnel. The proposal contrasts with Russia's 2022 demands to limit Ukraine's military to 85,000 personnel. Kyiv has consistently rejected restrictions on its armed forces. Abu Dhabi Peace Negotiations The funding demand is part of November 10-11 trilateral talks in Abu Dhabi involving Ukraine, Russia and the United States. The negotiations are mediated by US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner. Ukraine's delegation is led by Rustem Umerov. Before meeting Russian representatives, the Ukrainian team held discussions with US officials and European and NATO military representatives, including Alexus Grynkewich and NATO Chief of Staff Jeffrey van Leuven. Following the preliminary meetings, European countries, the United States and NATO reaffirmed their shared commitment to a strong post-war European security framework. Other Issues Under Discussion The negotiations also cover wider European security arrangements. A Russian delegation source said Moscow wants to address the continent's overall security framework, beyond reaching a ceasefire in Ukraine. Other discussion points include protecting energy infrastructure, stabilising the Black Sea region and arranging a large-scale prisoner exchange involving potentially 1,000 to 1,500 captives from each side. Ukraine's proposed 10-year funding arrangement is intended to support its own defence capabilities rather than depend on foreign troops stationed in the country. However, no funding amount, contributing countries or financial mechanism has been announced, and no formal agreement has been reached as of November 11, 2026.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-11 16:40:23
World
KYIV, — Ukraine's MAUL unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), developed by defence company AIDronesUA, has reached 90 km/h (56 mph) during a frontline medical evacuation mission. The vehicle maintained 78 km/h (48 mph) while returning with a wounded soldier onboard. AIDronesUA CEO Kostiantyn Hushcha announced the achievement on November 11 during the European Defence Innovation Forum 2026 in the Netherlands. The speed figures were reported by the 1st Separate Medical Battalion, which conducted the mission approximately six days earlier. MAUL UGV Design and Protection The MAUL is a four-wheel-drive vehicle powered by an internal combustion engine. It has a 15-litre fuel tank, 200 mm of ground clearance and a range of up to 110 km on paved roads and 90 km off-road. Its armoured evacuation capsule protects wounded soldiers from shrapnel and drone-dropped munitions. Patients are secured with three restraint straps, while an interior camera allows operators to monitor them during transport. The vehicle uses airless metal wheels designed for rough terrain and mine resistance. In an earlier mission, a MAUL completed a 64-km evacuation despite a damaged wheel. It measures approximately 2.3 metres in length and carries a payload of up to 200 kg. New Upgrades Against Drone Threats AIDronesUA is testing compact net launchers to intercept incoming FPV drones and integrating frequency scanners to detect potential threats. The company is also developing a medical monitoring system to remotely track patients' vital signs during evacuation. The MAUL uses the Droid Box control system, which supports multiple communication methods, including a fibre-optic connection with a range of up to 20 km. This helps maintain control in electronic warfare and signal-jamming environments. Joint Production in Sweden AIDronesUA has established a joint venture with Swedish company Njord Technology (NJORD Technology AB) following a strategic memorandum signed at Eurosatory 2026. The partnership plans to establish a Swedish manufacturing facility with an annual production capacity of 400–500 MAUL vehicles, primarily for Ukraine's Security and Defence Forces. AIDronesUA will retain intellectual property rights and lead further development, while Njord Technology will provide manufacturing and engineering support. The latest speed record improves on the battalion's August 2026 figures of 82 km/h without a casualty and 64 km/h with a wounded soldier onboard. Typical evacuation speeds have ranged between 30 and 40 km/h. The MAUL is designed to reduce the time wounded soldiers spend in exposed frontline areas while providing remotely operated medical evacuation.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-11 16:36:49
India
BENGALURU, — India's defence electronics manufacturer Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) says it can already build more than 1,000 missile seekers annually, combining radio frequency (RF) and infrared (IR) seekers. The company can scale this capacity by two to three times if orders demand it. The confirmation came during BEL's Q2 FY27 earnings conference call on November 3, 2026. Chairman and Managing Director Manoj Jain said existing manufacturing infrastructure can support higher production without building entirely new facilities. Seeker Manufacturing and Missile Programmes BEL uses its existing radar and infrared sensor manufacturing infrastructure for seeker production. RF seekers share technology with radar systems, while IR seekers are similar to infrared cameras. Missile seekers account for around 20–30% of a missile's total cost, while electronics contribute approximately 60–70%. BEL currently manufactures seekers for the Akash (Akash-1S and Akash-NG) and Astra missile programmes. It does not yet supply seekers for BrahMos, but has started developing the required technology. The company is also working with DRDO on detector development. While BEL has capabilities in signal processing and optics, developing core detector technology remains an important challenge. IR Facility and QRSAM Preparations BEL's Industry 4.0-compliant IR seeker facility at Nimmaluru, near Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh, was dedicated by the Prime Minister in October 2025. It supports infrared seeker and other electro-optical product manufacturing. For the QRSAM programme, BEL has started qualification testing and first-of-production-model preparations ahead of the proposed ₹30,000 crore Indian Army contract, which is awaiting final government clearance. BEL is also the development-cum-production partner for the long-range land-attack cruise missile and Pralay quasi-ballistic missile. Orders for these programmes are expected in the future. Order Book BEL's order book stood at ₹68,717 crore as of October 1, 2026. Its FY27 order inflow guidance remains at ₹25,000 crore excluding QRSAM and ₹55,000 crore including QRSAM. With existing capacity exceeding 1,000 seekers annually and scope for a two-to-three-fold expansion, BEL is positioned to support increasing requirements from India's indigenous missile programmes. Main Source : multibagg
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-11 16:26:43
U.S
FORT BENNING, Georgia, — The U.S. Army has started testing commercial autonomous passenger shuttles at Fort Benning, Georgia, after five vehicles arrived on November 4. The trial is part of the Robotic Operations for Autonomous Delivery and Sustainment (ROADS) challenge, managed jointly by the Army and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). Fort Benning is one of two installations selected for the trial. The planned fleet will consist of six vehicles, including four electric and two hybrid vans, supplied by three American companies: Applied Intuition, Perrone Robotics, and Forterra in partnership with May Mobility. The exact vehicle models and trial cost have not been disclosed. Reducing Soldiers' Routine Duties The Army aims to reduce the number of soldiers assigned to driving duties across large military installations. Thousands of trainees, instructors and other personnel regularly travel between training areas and support facilities at Fort Benning. Charles Auer, the installation's pilot lead, said continuous vehicle dispatching requires dedicated drivers, taking soldiers away from their primary training and tactical responsibilities. The Fort Benning trial focuses only on passenger transportation, although the wider ROADS challenge also covers cargo delivery. The goal is to give instructors more teaching time and free soldiers for other duties. Testing and Safety Measures During the first two to three weeks, human drivers will operate the shuttles manually while teams collect LiDAR, video and GPS data to map approved routes and build the system architecture. The vehicles will operate only on paved roads. Sensitive locations, including Lawson Army Airfield, ammunition supply points and tactical compounds, are excluded. After mapping, vendors will conduct phased demonstrations and test runs through the end of 2026. Each vehicle will undergo further testing with a safety driver onboard before the Army considers fully driverless operations. Auer said safety remains the priority and that the transition to autonomous operations will follow a phased approach. ROADS Challenge and U.S. Technology Restrictions Launched in May 2026, the ROADS challenge is a $30 million initiative designed to introduce commercial autonomous technology into the Department of Defense's fleet of more than 150,000 non-tactical vehicles. Its objectives include reducing driver requirements, improving vehicle utilisation and freeing military personnel for higher-priority duties. In October 2026, five teams advanced to Phase III for military installation evaluations: Forterra/May Mobility, Applied Intuition, Perrone Robotics, Overland AI/Gatik and Bot Auto. The use of American companies also aligns with U.S. restrictions on certain foreign connected-vehicle technologies. In January 2025, the Commerce Department finalised rules restricting covered connected-vehicle software linked to China or Russia from model year 2027, followed by hardware restrictions in 2030. The U.S. Air Force's 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base in Japan also restricted China's BYD vehicles last month over security concerns. The Fort Benning trial will help the Army determine whether autonomous shuttles can safely handle routine personnel transportation and reduce soldiers' driving duties before the technology is considered for wider military use.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-11 16:15:20
Europe
PARIS, — France has awarded a contract worth more than €1.5 billion (approximately $1.7 billion) to Airbus Defence and Space and Thales Alenia Space to develop two next-generation military observation satellites under the IRIS programme. France's Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) notified the companies on November 5, with the French Ministry of the Armed Forces announcing the contract on November 9, 2026. Airbus and Thales to Develop Two Satellites Airbus Defence and Space will act as the lead contractor. It will manufacture both satellite platforms, supply a significant part of the first satellite's instruments and manage the ground control infrastructure. Thales Alenia Space, a joint venture between Thales (67%) and Leonardo (33%), will provide critical optical payload components for the first satellite and develop the complete next-generation optical payload for the second. The company described the second satellite's instrument as Europe's most advanced optical observation payload. The programme will also involve European subcontractors, including Lynred, Pyxalis, Sodern, Safran Reosc and Air Liquide Advanced Technologies. The contract covers satellite design, manufacturing, testing, ground systems, in-orbit operations and maintenance, with work continuing until the end of the 2030s. High-Resolution Imaging and Space Surveillance The IRIS (Instruments de Renseignement et d’Imagerie Spatiale) programme will provide the French military with extremely high-resolution images of locations worldwide. The satellites will use visible and infrared sensors to collect images during both day and night. Their technologies will include hyper-stable telescopes, active optics and highly sensitive digital sensors. Artificial intelligence-based image processing will help improve image quality and speed up intelligence delivery to military users. The satellites will also monitor objects in orbit to support space surveillance and the identification of potential orbital threats. Replacing the Existing CSO Satellite System IRIS will progressively replace France's three-satellite Composante Spatiale Optique (CSO) constellation, launched in 2018, 2020 and 2025. The first IRIS satellite is expected to become operational around 2033, taking over the primary intelligence-gathering roles of CSO-1 and CSO-2. The second satellite is expected to join the constellation by approximately 2035, providing further improvements in image resolution as the final CSO satellite approaches the end of its operational life. The transition is designed to maintain continuous space-based intelligence coverage for the French armed forces. French Space Command to Operate IRIS Once operational, the satellites will be managed by France's Space Command (Commandement de l’espace), headquartered at Air Base 101 in Toulouse. IRIS is a sovereign French programme designed to maintain independent access to military satellite imagery. However, it will remain open to cooperation with allied nations, allowing partner countries to access its intelligence data. The programme will strengthen France's independent intelligence capabilities while supporting its domestic and European space industry.
Read More → Posted on 2026-11-11 16:09:13Search
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