World
SANAA, Yemen — September 15, 2026 — Yemen’s Houthi movement has released video and photographic imagery showing what it says are multiple military vehicles belonging to forces aligned with the Presidential Leadership Council (PLC) destroyed east of Al-Jawf Governorate. According to Houthi military media, the vehicles were targeted during attacks by PLC-aligned forces against Houthi positions in the area. A Houthi military source previously said on September 12 that forces massing east of Al-Jawf were targeted, claiming the destruction of dozens of military vehicles and losses among the attacking forces. The released imagery shows damaged and destroyed vehicles in the desert terrain. Houthi forces said they used artillery and guided weapons against troop gatherings and military vehicles during the fighting. WATCH: The Houthis (Ansarallah) released footage of attacks against vehicles of the Saudi-backed PLC in the Al-Jawf region. pic.twitter.com/WZsjcbBvoj September 15, 2026 The clashes are reported around areas east of Al-Hazm, including the Al-Labanat sector, where government-aligned forces have conducted military operations against Houthi positions. The specific vehicle losses and casualty figures shown or claimed by the Houthis have not been independently verified. There was no immediate official response from the PLC regarding the imagery and the reported losses.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-15 14:03:04
World
JERUSALEM / RIYADH — Israel is providing intelligence support to Saudi Arabia to help the kingdom respond to attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement, also known as Ansarullah, according to The Jerusalem Post, citing Israeli outlet Walla and regional diplomatic sources. Intelligence Cooperation Through CENTCOM The reported talks between Israeli and Saudi security officials were mediated by the United States Central Command (CENTCOM). Saudi Arabia reportedly sought intelligence that could help it better understand Houthi military deployments and identify possible plans for future operations. The reported cooperation comes despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia. Houthi Attacks on Saudi Arabia The intelligence discussions come as Houthi attacks against Saudi Arabia have intensified. Recent attacks have included: Oil infrastructure: A drone attack targeted oil pipelines and pumping facilities, resulting in a partial shutdown of activity along the main pipeline. Border-area attacks: Houthi forces also carried out an attack affecting civilians at a mosque and nearby buildings close to the Yemen-Saudi border. Missile and drone attacks: Houthi forces have continued attacks against Saudi targets, increasing pressure on the kingdom’s defenses. Houthi Advances Along the Red Sea Houthi forces have also expanded their position along Yemen’s Red Sea coast. They have captured the port city of Mocha (Mokha), Perim Island (Mayyun Island) in the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and the Greater and Lesser Hanish Islands further north. These developments have given the Houthis positions along much of Yemen’s western coastline and near the strategic Bab al-Mandab Strait. Saudi Arabia Seeks International Assistance Saudi Arabia has sought support from other countries as the security situation has worsened. Bloomberg reported that Riyadh asked Britain for assistance in countering the Houthis near the Bab al-Mandab Strait and protecting its oil infrastructure. Britain agreed to send military advisers, although it has not committed to additional military assistance. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman has also appealed for regional support amid setbacks faced by Saudi-backed forces in Yemen. The approach to Israel was reportedly made indirectly through CENTCOM. The United States has provided intelligence-sharing and advisory support but has not conducted direct strikes, according to the reports. No Official Confirmation The developments come as concerns grow over security around the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a key maritime route connecting the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and an important route for Saudi oil exports. Israel and Saudi Arabia do not have formal diplomatic relations. The Jerusalem Post reported the Israeli-Saudi discussions on September 15, but no official Israeli or Saudi statement confirming the reported intelligence cooperation was detailed in the initial reporting.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-15 13:51:43
World
SHANGHAI — Commercial satellite imagery has revealed a previously unseen naval vessel under construction at the Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard in Shanghai. Open-source defense analysts and Naval News assess the ship as the world’s first purpose-built mothership designed to deploy, recover and support full-sized uncrewed submarines. The vessel is linked to China’s development of extra-extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicles (XXLUUVs) and is expected to provide a mobile platform for transporting, maintaining and deploying them at sea. Unique Design for Uncrewed Submarines The ship resembles an amphibious transport dock (LPD), but its layout is significantly different. It is approximately 205 meters (673 feet) long and 27 meters (89 feet) wide and uses steerable azimuth thruster pods for low-speed maneuvering during launch and recovery operations. At the stern is a wet well-deck measuring about 55 by 13 meters. The bottom of this area is open, allowing a large deployment cradle to extend below the hull. The cradle is supported by 12 vertical lifting arms, enabling an uncrewed submarine to be recovered or deployed while underwater. Forward of the well-deck is an enclosed hangar measuring approximately 95 by 17 meters. Analysts assess that it could accommodate up to four full-sized XXLUUVs, or more smaller underwater systems. The enclosed space could also support maintenance and other technical work. The forward superstructure includes a helicopter hangar and flight deck for rotary-wing or logistics support. Naval analyst H. I. Sutton has also released an analysis-based illustration showing the vessel's major features, including the cradle and enclosed hangar. China’s Large XXLUUV Program China has built and tested at least two large XXLUUV designs at naval facilities on Hainan Island. One is about 35 meters (115 feet) long and the other about 45 meters (148 feet). Both are considerably larger than the U.S. Navy's Boeing Orca XLUUV, which is about 26 meters (85 feet) long with its payload module. The Chinese vehicles have been observed without traditional sails and use X-form rudders. They have previously been housed and launched from specialised floating docks, including a facility built in 2024 near Gangmen Harbour, west of the Sanya naval base. The new ship would provide a more mobile support platform for these vehicles instead of relying only on fixed or floating facilities. A similar cradle-elevator concept appeared in a 2025 Chinese proposal for an undersea research vessel, but that design used an open working deck. The much larger Shanghai vessel's enclosed hangar and specialised underwater recovery arrangement have led analysts to assess a military support role. Other Chinese Uncrewed Underwater Vehicles China has also developed smaller extra-large uncrewed underwater vehicles. At a military parade in Beijing on September 3, 2025, eight were displayed: five AJX002 vehicles, estimated at 18–20 meters long and associated with mine-laying, and three HSU100 vehicles equipped with retractable sensors. The smaller systems are considered operational, while the two larger XXLUUV designs remain under testing and appear to be competing development approaches. Analysts have estimated that the larger vehicles could potentially have a range of around 10,000 nautical miles, based on their size, published concept models and diesel-electric propulsion concepts. Potential missions include long-distance transit, mine-laying, reconnaissance, seabed surveillance and carrying sensors or torpedoes, although China's authorities have not publicly announced their exact operational doctrine. The new mothership remains under construction at Hudong-Zhonghua. Its development, alongside China's ongoing XXLUUV testing, indicates that Beijing is developing not only large autonomous underwater vehicles but also a dedicated surface platform to transport, maintain, launch and recover them.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-15 13:46:58
U.S
WASHINGTON — A Pentagon inspector general report has found that four months of intense U.S. combat operations against Iran created strategic ammunition shortfalls and exposed bottlenecks across the U.S. defense industrial base. The first mandatory quarterly report to Congress on Operation Epic Fury, covering February 28 through June 30, 2026, estimates the Department of Defense spent $33.4 billion on the operation. Of that amount, $22.3 billion went to expended munitions, $7.4 billion to operating costs and $3.7 billion to equipment losses. The figure does not include infrastructure repair costs. Munitions Shortfalls and Production Bottlenecks The report states that “the munitions expenditure on OEF has resulted in strategic inventory shortfalls and revealed industrial base bottlenecks for munitions resupply.” Officials from the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment told investigators that heavy weapons use created gaps in strategic stockpiles and exposed limits in the supply chain and defense industry's ability to replenish weapons quickly. The Pentagon is working to shorten procurement and production timelines and increase stocks of critical materials, components and selected munitions. However, the report identifies continuing bottlenecks involving solid rocket motors, high-grade explosives and propellants, and skilled manufacturing labor. Aircraft Losses and Air-Defense Demand The report records several U.S. aircraft losses and damage during the period. These include four F-15s destroyed, one F-35 damaged, seven KC-135 tankers damaged and up to 30 MQ-9 Reaper drones destroyed. Other accounts of the operation reported an A-10 destroyed, an E-3 Sentry damaged on the ground in Saudi Arabia, an AH-64 Apache downed near the Strait of Hormuz, and four AH-6 helicopters destroyed by U.S. forces to prevent their capture. U.S. air-defense systems also faced heavy demand, intercepting more than 6,000 one-way attack drones and 1,500 ballistic missiles targeting U.S. forces, regional allies and commercial shipping lanes. Patriot Production Under Pressure The campaign highlighted the difficulty of rapidly replacing air-defense missiles. Lockheed Martin's Camden, Arkansas, facility produces about 750 Patriot missiles per year, while approximately 1,500 Patriots were reportedly launched during the conflict. Each Patriot interceptor costs around $4 million. Lockheed Martin is working to increase annual production from about 750 to 2,000 missiles. Missile division head Tim Cahill described the effort as “controlled chaos.” Debate Over U.S. Weapons Stocks The inspector general's findings contrast with statements from President Donald Trump, who has said the United States has “virtually unlimited amounts of Mid to High Grade Ammunition” and is producing munitions at levels never seen before. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has also urged the defense industry to increase production. Mark Cancian of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) said the United States has enough weapons for a war with Iran but warned that sustaining a longer conflict with China would present a much greater challenge. He said the United States might have enough munitions for a month but could face difficulty sustaining operations into the second, third and fourth months. Damage and Additional Costs The conflict also created costs outside direct military operations. The State Department spent $79.2 million on conflict-related contingencies, including evacuation operations. Iranian strikes caused approximately $184 million in damage to U.S. diplomatic facilities in Iraq, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Iranian missile and drone attacks also damaged or destroyed hundreds of buildings and structures at U.S. military installations in Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Oman and Jordan. The inspector general did not provide a total repair estimate and said it remains unclear which facilities will be rebuilt or who will pay for the work. Earlier estimates of Operation Epic Fury's cost were lower. A Pentagon official told Congress in April that the operation had cost about $25 billion, while U.S. officials familiar with internal assessments put the figure closer to $50 billion at that time. Later estimates increased as the conflict continued. The inspector general's report, based on information from the Defense Department, State Department and U.S. Agency for International Development inspectors general, provides the first quarterly assessment of the operation and highlights the challenge of replenishing U.S. weapons inventories after sustained combat operations.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-15 12:55:13
U.S
CINCINNATI, — GE Aerospace is preparing to assemble the first physical test asset of its XA102 adaptive cycle engine under the U.S. Air Force’s Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP) program. The engine is intended for future combat aircraft. XA102 Moves Toward Physical Testing GE Aerospace is working with suppliers to procure hardware and is testing subcomponents ahead of assembly. The work marks a transition from digital design and development toward physical engine hardware and testing. “Our team is working with suppliers to procure hardware and test subcomponents as we prepare for assembly of the first XA102 test asset,” said Jorge Perez, general manager of Edison Works Advanced Combat Engines at GE Aerospace. Perez said the company is using lessons from the XA100 program as a foundation for advancing adaptive cycle engine technology and supporting the U.S. Air Force’s next-generation propulsion goals. Building on the XA100 The XA102 uses a three-stream adaptive cycle architecture designed to address the propulsion, fuel-efficiency and thermal-management requirements of future combat aircraft. GE Aerospace is applying experience from the earlier XA100, which was developed under the Air Force’s Adaptive Engine Transition Program (AETP). The XA100 completed multiple test campaigns that advanced three-stream adaptive technology. The company is also applying lessons from the XA100 in adaptive propulsion, thermal management, fuel efficiency and advanced engine design. Model-Based Manufacturing The XA102 was designed from the beginning using model-based engineering practices. GE Aerospace is now extending these methods into manufacturing, inspection and assembly. The company says the XA102 will be its first engine built using Model-Based Definition (MBD) throughout the process, replacing traditional two-dimensional drawings with a machine-readable digital product definition. The digital framework links design, manufacturing and inspection through integrated models. GE Aerospace expects the approach to improve accuracy and shorten the transition from engineering to manufacturing. Suppliers are also being prepared to use the model-based data in their manufacturing and inspection operations. GE Aerospace completed demonstrations of its model-based engineering practices during the first phase of the program. Key Program Milestones The XA102 completed its Detailed Design Review in February 2025, followed by an Assembly Readiness Review in May 2026. The reviews confirmed progress in the engine design, manufacturing processes and supply chain. As of early September 2026, around a quarter of the hardware components were reported to be on order as assembly preparations continued. NGAP Competition The XA102 is being developed under the NGAP program alongside Pratt & Whitney’s XA103. NGAP supports propulsion options for next-generation aircraft, including the F-47 as part of the Next Generation Air Dominance family of systems. The XA102’s three-stream adaptive design allows airflow to be managed for different requirements, including fuel efficiency, cooling and thrust. GE Aerospace has not officially disclosed the engine’s thrust class. Some reports have placed it in the 35,000-pound-thrust range with afterburner, but that figure remains unconfirmed by the company. With hardware procurement and subcomponent testing underway, GE Aerospace is now preparing to assemble and test the first XA102 physical test asset as the NGAP propulsion program progresses.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-15 12:45:58
U.S
TORRANCE, Calif. — The U.S. Navy has awarded defense startup Castelion a production delivery order valued at up to $200 million for an initial production lot of Blackbeard hypersonic strike weapons. The order covers the manufacturing, assembly, testing and delivery of the weapons to the fleet. Production Order Follows Earlier EOC Purchase The award was issued by Portfolio Acquisition Executive Aviation (PAE(A)) through its Future Capability Development and Integration Aviation Rapid Capabilities Cell. It follows the Navy’s June 2026 purchase of 50 Blackbeard Early Operational Capability (EOC) weapons under a separate $23.4 million firm-fixed-price order, which also included 50 storage and shipping containers. The latest order moves Blackbeard from prototype and EOC activities into an initial production lot for fleet delivery. Blackbeard Hypersonic Weapon Blackbeard is an air-launched hypersonic strike weapon designed to provide naval aviation with a high-speed, long-range option against maritime and land targets. Castelion said the system is intended to increase magazine depth and extend the strike reach of naval aviation, including aircraft such as the F/A-18 Super Hornet. The program has been developed with the U.S. Navy, U.S. Army and U.S. Air Force, supported by hundreds of millions of dollars in private investment. Earlier Navy Contracts The latest production order follows several earlier Blackbeard contracts: February 2026: Nearly $50 million to advance Blackbeard toward Early Operational Capability. April 2026: About $105 million for F/A-18 integration and related testing. June 2026: $23.4 million for 50 EOC weapons and 50 storage and shipping containers. August 2026: Nearly $90 million for engineering, technical, logistics and manufacturing services supporting the 50 EOC weapons and the system’s transition toward a formal Navy program. Production Facilities Castelion plans to carry out production work at Project Ranger, its 1,000-acre manufacturing campus in Rio Rancho, New Mexico, and at its facility in Torrance, California. The company has invested more than $220 million of its own capital in Project Ranger. The site supports solid rocket motor manufacturing, testing and final assembly. Castelion is using vertical integration and commercial manufacturing methods for Blackbeard production, giving the company greater control over costs, quality and production schedules from raw materials through finished weapons. Castelion CEO on Production Bryon Hargis, co-founder and chief executive officer of Castelion, said the Navy’s decision to move into production reflects confidence in the Blackbeard program and the progress made so far. He also said the weapon was designed from the beginning for serial manufacturing and that Castelion looks forward to delivering the capability to the fleet. The latest order represents the next production phase for Blackbeard as the Navy moves toward fielding the air-launched hypersonic strike weapon.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-15 12:35:25
World
TOKYO — The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) lost contact with one of its RQ-4B Global Hawk surveillance drones on Tuesday while it was flying over the Sea of Japan off Tottori Prefecture. The aircraft is now presumed to have crashed after the Japan Coast Guard spotted floating debris believed to be from the drone. Communication Lost Off Tottori Communication with the unmanned aircraft was lost at around 12:58 p.m. while it was operating in international waters approximately 50 kilometers north of the Tottori coast. The ASDF, Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) and Japan Coast Guard immediately began a joint search and recovery operation. Coast Guard vessels later spotted a floating object that appeared to be part of the missing aircraft. Officials said the Global Hawk is presumed to have crashed, while the exact circumstances remain under investigation. No damage on land or to other parties has been reported. Officials Order Search and Investigation ASDF Chief of Staff Yasuhiro Morita said the force is conducting a search while considering all possibilities. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi instructed personnel to confirm the aircraft's status, conduct a swift search, check for any effects on surrounding areas and provide information to relevant local governments. The search operation is continuing in the waters off Tottori. One of Three Japanese Global Hawks The missing aircraft is one of three RQ-4B Global Hawks operated by Japan and based at Misawa Air Base in Aomori Prefecture. Japan's procurement of the aircraft, along with associated equipment, parts and logistical support, was approved in 2015 in a deal valued at approximately $1.2 billion. The Global Hawks began arriving in Japan in 2022, with all three aircraft in place by 2023. This is the first time one of Japan's Global Hawks has gone missing or been presumed lost. Global Hawk Capabilities The U.S.-made RQ-4B Global Hawk, produced by Northrop Grumman, is a high-altitude, long-endurance unmanned aircraft used for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. It has a wingspan of about 40 meters and a length of about 15 meters. The aircraft can operate at around 60,000 feet, reach speeds of up to approximately 570 km/h, and remain airborne for about 30–36 hours. It is remotely controlled from the ground using satellite communications. Japan uses the Global Hawk for surveillance of activities around the country and surrounding waters. Chinese drones have also operated over the Sea of Japan in recent years in connection with naval movements in the region. The search for the missing aircraft and the investigation into the loss of communication are continuing.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-15 12:22:48
U.S
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. / OXNARD, Calif. — Swarm Aero has unveiled Gamera, a new Group 5 uncrewed aircraft system (UAS) designed for long-range strike, sensing and other missions. The California-based company introduced the aircraft at the Air & Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference 2026. Gamera is a clean-sheet aircraft designed around mass production, high-rate manufacturing and a lower cost structure than traditional high-value military aircraft. Swarm Aero said the platform is intended to provide long-range effects while allowing larger numbers of aircraft to be produced and operated. The aircraft has an approximate 72-foot wingspan and an unrefueled range exceeding 9,000 nautical miles. Its payload capacity is more than 2,800 pounds, distributed across seven available store locations. Meet Gamera, a new category of Group 5 strike and sensing UAS that we unveiled at @AFA_Air_Space's Air, Space & Cyber Conference today.Mass-producible, significantly lower cost than legacy platforms, and the first UAS specifically designed to employ bomber-class strike… pic.twitter.com/UhT9bgcTPn — Swarm Aero (@SwarmAero) September 14, 2026 Designed for Heavy Long-Range Weapons A key feature of Gamera is its ability to carry heavyweight, long-range weapons. Swarm Aero describes it as the first UAS specifically designed to deploy bomber-class strike weapons, including the AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) and JASSM-ER. The aircraft can also carry newer classes of low-cost cruise and hypersonic missiles. Its modular design allows different payloads to be carried depending on the mission, including air-to-air, air-to-surface and advanced sensing payloads. Swarm Aero said Gamera can perform surveillance and strike missions currently associated with the MQ-9 Reaper, while carrying weapons and payloads that the MQ-9 cannot accommodate. The company also says its approach can provide standoff strike effects at approximately one-tenth the cost-per-effect of legacy approaches. Twin-Boom Aircraft Design Gamera uses a twin-boom configuration rather than a conventional single central fuselage arrangement. The aircraft is powered by a tractor-configured Honeywell TPE331 turboprop engine, with the propeller positioned ahead of the wing. A full-scale Gamera model displayed at the conference included a representation of an LRASM-class munition, highlighting the aircraft's intended heavy-payload role. The combination of long range, payload capacity and modularity is central to Swarm Aero's approach to the aircraft. Development Began in 2022 Swarm Aero began developing Gamera in 2022, using what the company describes as a first-principles approach to aircraft design, manufacturing and future combat requirements. The company has invested tens of millions of dollars in aircraft design, manufacturing methods and prototyping. It has also secured government contracts valued in the tens of millions of dollars. Among those contracts is more than $10 million from the Air Force Research Laboratory for work focused on materials and manufacturing processes intended to support high-rate, lower-cost production of large composite airframes. Swarm Aero has raised $59 million in funding and established an 80,000-square-foot Advanced Manufacturing Center in Fayetteville, Arkansas. The company is targeting 2027 for Gamera's first flight. Designed for the Massed Modular Aircraft Program Gamera is being positioned for the U.S. Air Force and Defense Innovation Unit's Massed Modular Aircraft (MMA) program. The MMA effort is focused on aircraft that can be produced at high rates while maintaining modularity and controlling ownership costs. The program's requirements include at least 2,800 pounds of payload, an unrefueled combat radius of about 2,300 nautical miles, and a one-way self-deployment range of at least 8,000 nautical miles. The requirements also call for a modular open systems architecture and the ability for one operator to control multiple aircraft. The concept is intended to complement higher-value aircraft with more affordable platforms that can operate in contested environments and accept greater levels of attrition than traditional expensive aircraft. Legion Command-and-Control System Gamera will operate with Swarm Aero's Legion command-and-control and autonomy software. Legion is designed to allow a single operator or a small team to control multiple heterogeneous uncrewed systems at the same time. The system has been tested in operational environments, including the U.S. Navy's Fleet Experimentation (FLEX) 2026, where one operator managed multiple air and maritime assets through find, fix, track, target, engage and assess sequences. Legion was previously selected by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) as one of three software providers for its Autonomous Collaborative Teaming program, which is linked to the Department of Defense's Replicator efforts. Swarm Operations Swarm Aero intends for multiple Gamera aircraft to operate together or alongside existing military forces. The aircraft is designed for missions including surface strike, sensing, electronic warfare and communications relay. The company's approach is based on combining long-range operations, a large payload capacity and lower production costs in a platform designed for high-rate manufacturing. Swarm Aero co-founder and Chief Revenue Officer Oliver Palmer, a former Pentagon official focused on China and Taiwan strategy, said the company had changed conventional approaches to aircraft design, manufacturing and combat operations to develop an affordable, mass-producible strike platform. Swarm CEO and co-founder Peter Kalogiannis highlighted the team's experience in long-endurance aircraft design and the production of military aircraft at volume. With its development work, government contracts and manufacturing investment, Swarm Aero is now preparing Gamera for flight testing and potential production at scale.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 17:10:54
U.S
NATIONAL HARBOR, Md. — The U.S. Air Force has officially named its first Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) as the FQ-42 Vengeance and FQ-44 Fury, marking a new stage in the service’s effort to field semi-autonomous uncrewed aircraft alongside crewed fighters. Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink announced the names on September 14 during the Air & Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference. He also outlined plans to have 500 CCAs operational by 2032, with a longer-term objective of approximately 1,000 aircraft. The aircraft are intended to operate alongside crewed platforms, including the F-35 and the future F-47, providing additional sensors, weapons and electronic warfare capabilities without requiring another pilot in the air. Production and Fleet Expansion The Air Force awarded production contracts to General Atomics Aeronautical Systems and Anduril Industries in June 2026 for Increment 1 CCAs. The companies are now manufacturing the aircraft, with the first production examples already beginning to come off their respective production lines. The contracts are intended to support the delivery of more than 150 combat-capable aircraft by the end of the decade. The service has also requested nearly $1 billion in fiscal year 2027 funding to begin Increment 1 procurement and support the production effort. The CCA program is being developed around a human-machine teaming concept. The aircraft are semi-autonomous, allowing onboard systems to perform functions while human operators remain responsible for higher-level mission decisions. FQ-42 Vengeance and FQ-44 Fury The two aircraft previously carried the prototype designations YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A. The FQ-42 Vengeance, developed by General Atomics, comes from the company’s earlier CCA development work, including the XQ-67A program. The FQ-44 Fury, developed by Anduril, is based on the Fury design that originated with Blue Force Technologies, which Anduril acquired in 2023. The Air Force's official announcement confirmed the two names as part of the service’s CCA program. Testing at Creech Air Force Base The naming announcement follows operational testing conducted at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, in July 2026. During the exercise, the Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft Experimental Operations Unit operated both aircraft in a realistic operational environment and integrated them with crewed aircraft. The testing focused on developing tactics, techniques and procedures for using CCAs in more austere operating locations. Air Force personnel also tested the ground-support requirements for the aircraft. A YFQ-44A Fury was refueled and prepared for additional operations, while crews loaded inert AIM-120 air-to-air missiles during the exercise. The Air Force said the activity helped evaluate the reduced logistical requirements needed to operate CCAs from remote and forward locations. Members of the Royal Netherlands Air and Space Force also observed the exercise. The United States and the Netherlands are working on platform-agnostic, open-architecture, semi-autonomous capabilities intended to support data sharing and interoperability during combined operations. The Air Force is continuing flight testing, operational experimentation and autonomy development as it prepares to move the FQ-42 and FQ-44 from testing toward operational service. The planned expansion to 500 aircraft by 2032 and approximately 1,000 in the longer term represents a major increase in the number of uncrewed aircraft the service intends to operate alongside its crewed fighter fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 16:57:07
Europe
PARIS / STOCKHOLM — France and Sweden have begun engineering work to integrate France’s rocket-assisted AASM Hammer precision-guided bombs with Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft intended for Ukraine. The development was reported by French Aid to Europe, citing French newspaper Le Figaro. The integration is being carried out by Sweden’s Saab, the manufacturer of the Gripen, and French defense company Safran Electronics & Defense, which develops the AASM Hammer. AASM Hammer Integration The work includes adapting the weapon to the Gripen’s weapon stations, weapon-management systems and digital interfaces used to transfer targeting information. The integration would allow Ukrainian Gripens to use a precision weapon already operated by Ukrainian forces. Ukraine has previously adapted the AASM Hammer for its MiG-29 fighters and Su-25 attack aircraft. The weapon is also used on French Rafale fighters. The AASM Hammer, or Armement Air-Sol Modulaire, is a modular guidance and range-extension system that converts standard unguided bombs into precision-guided weapons. It is available for 125 kg, 250 kg, 500 kg and 1,000 kg bomb bodies, including Mk 82, Mk 83, Mk 84 and BLU-109 warheads. Safran offers three main guidance configurations: INS/GPS, INS/GPS with infrared guidance, and INS/GPS with laser guidance. The system uses a solid-fuel rocket motor for additional propulsion after release. Safran states that the baseline system has a range of more than 70 km, depending on configuration and launch conditions. Safran is also developing the Hammer 250 XLR and Hammer 1000 XLR extended-range variants. Sweden’s Gripen Plans for Ukraine The AASM integration comes as Sweden expands its planned Gripen support for Ukraine. In May 2026, Sweden announced plans to provide Ukraine with 16 Gripen C/D fighters free of charge. In June 2026, Sweden and Ukraine signed a contract for 16 new Gripen E fighters, with deliveries expected to begin in early 2029. Ukraine and Saab are also discussing a potential larger arrangement involving up to 150 Gripen aircraft. Longer-term cooperation includes plans to localize Gripen production in Ukraine, including aircraft assembly and component manufacturing. The localization is not expected to begin before 2033. Ukrainian pilots and technical personnel are already undergoing Gripen-related training in Sweden. If the AASM Hammer integration is completed, Ukraine’s future Gripen fleet will have access to an additional precision air-to-ground weapon already familiar to its forces.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 16:48:54
World
MOSCOW, — Russia may develop a service similar to Flightradar for tracking Ukrainian drones, according to Alexey Chadayev, CEO of the Ushkuynik Research and Production Center. Chadayev told Russia’s state news agency TASS that the first step would be to establish a unified sensor network operator because the current process of detecting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) is fragmented. Proposed Unified Sensor Network Chadayev said the proposed network could be developed using existing infrastructure operated by Rostelecom and major Russian cellular companies. He specifically pointed to telecommunications towers and fiber-optic cables as the foundation for the network. According to Chadayev, negotiations on creating such a unified sensor network operator are already underway. He said Russia needs a specialized system similar to Flightradar, but designed for tracking drones. The proposed system would bring information from different detection sources into a common network. It would allow personnel involved in countering UAVs to see detected targets, identify them and assign tracking numbers. Coordinating Drone Interception Chadayev said the system would also help coordinate which unit is tracking a particular UAV and which unit would ultimately intercept it. He highlighted the importance of controlling where a drone is intercepted because falling debris can cause damage on the ground. According to Chadayev, one of the main challenges is destroying a drone in a location where its descent causes the least possible damage. The proposal therefore focuses not only on detecting drones but also on creating a common picture of their movement and coordinating the response among those involved in counter-UAV operations. Earlier Proposal for Civilian Low-Altitude Airspace Control Chadayev had previously supported the creation of a unified federal civilian low-altitude airspace control system in Russia to counter Ukrainian drones. His latest proposal would use existing telecommunications infrastructure as part of a broader sensor network rather than relying only on separate detection systems. The proposal comes as Russia continues developing systems designed to combine drone detection and counter-UAV capabilities. For example, Russia's High Precision Systems has said its systems can combine radar and optoelectronic detection with other air-defense systems to create a unified air situation picture. At this stage, the Flightradar-like drone tracking service remains a proposal discussed by Chadayev, with negotiations involving Rostelecom and major cellular operators reported as underway. TASS did not report that a nationwide operational service has already been established.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 16:28:31
Europe
BERLIN — Germany is planning to spend nearly €3.4 billion ($3.75 billion) to acquire US-made Typhon mobile launchers and Tomahawk cruise missiles, according to an internal Defense Ministry planning document first reported by Politico. The proposed spending is expected to be considered during preparations for Germany’s 2027 federal budget. The final cost and number of missiles and launchers have not yet been decided and will require Bundestag approval. A German Defense Ministry spokesperson declined to confirm the exact budget allocation because the budget process is ongoing, but said that “the procurement of the US Typhon system with Tomahawk cruise missiles remains intended.” Germany has already submitted a formal Letter of Request to the US Department of Defense. Ground-Based Long-Range Strike Capability The acquisition would give the Bundeswehr its first independently operated, ground-based long-range conventional strike capability. Germany has traditionally relied mainly on air-launched weapons, including the Taurus KEPD 350. The Typhon system, also known as the Strategic Mid-Range Fires (SMRF) system and built by Lockheed Martin, uses mobile launchers based on modified Mk 41 vertical launch cells. It can launch Tomahawk cruise missiles and is also designed to fire SM-6 missiles. Tomahawk missiles are produced by Raytheon, now part of RTX, and have a reported range of about 2,500 kilometers. Germany’s planning documents indicate that the Bundeswehr aims to bring the Typhon system into service by the end of the decade. From US Deployment to German Ownership The planned purchase follows the cancellation of an earlier US deployment plan. In July 2024, then-US President Joe Biden and German Chancellor Olaf Scholz agreed to begin rotational deployment of US long-range weapons in Germany from 2026, including US-operated Tomahawk missiles. The Trump administration later canceled the planned deployment. Germany subsequently approached Washington in 2025 to purchase its own Typhon launchers and Tomahawks. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and US President Donald Trump reached an agreement in principle during the NATO summit in Ankara. The exact quantities remain undisclosed, while further details of the procurement are still being negotiated. German Industry Participation Berlin is also seeking German industrial participation in the program, including possible manufacturing and maintenance work. The Defense Ministry planning document refers to “the prospect of industrial cooperation.” However, no binding workshare or production agreement has been finalized. The United States is expected to retain control over sensitive technology and intellectual property. Part of Wider Long-Range Strike Plans The Typhon and Tomahawk acquisition is part of Germany’s broader long-range strike plans. Berlin is also pursuing the Taurus Neo modernization program and participating in the European Long-Range Strike Approach (ELSA). Germany is also working with the United Kingdom on a future European deep-strike cruise missile intended to provide a range of up to 2,000 kilometers in the 2030s. The Typhon program would allow Germany to operate a ground-based long-range strike capability under its own control rather than relying on rotational US deployments.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 16:17:35
World
CANBERRA — The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has achieved Initial Operational Capability (IOC) with the AGM-158C Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) and AGM-158B Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile–Extended Range (JASSM-ER). The Australian Department of Defence announced the milestone on September 11, confirming that the two long-range weapons have completed operational testing and entered operational service. Long-Range Maritime and Land Strike The LRASM is an air-launched, precision-guided, semi-autonomous missile designed to engage high-value, well-defended maritime targets at ranges exceeding 370 kilometres. The JASSM-ER is an air-launched, precision-guided land-strike cruise missile capable of locating, identifying and defeating targets at ranges of up to 900 kilometres from the launch aircraft. The IOC declaration specifically covers their operational capability on the RAAF's F/A-18F Super Hornet aircraft. Testing included weapon preparation and loading, targeting and successful engagements. RAAF Chief of Air Force Air Marshal Stephen Chappell said the weapons would increase the lethality of air combat aircraft and improve the service's ability to conduct precise long-range strikes while avoiding increasingly sophisticated air defences. Testing and RIMPAC 2026 The capability followed a series of tests in Australia and the United States. In February 2025, two LRASM missiles were successfully test-fired by RAAF F/A-18F Super Hornets at the Point Mugu Sea Range in the United States. In November 2025, two JASSM-ER missiles were successfully test-fired at the Woomera Test Range in South Australia. During Exercise Rim of the Pacific 2026 (RIMPAC 26), a RAAF P-8A Poseidon successfully fired an LRASM and hit its target during a sinking exercise. It was the first employment of LRASM by an Australian P-8A and formed part of dual launches involving RAAF and U.S. Navy maritime patrol aircraft. Acquisition and Future Integration Australia received U.S. Foreign Military Sales approval for the LRASM in February 2020 and for the JASSM-ER in July 2022. U.S. Defence Security Cooperation Agency notifications listed up to 200 LRASM and 80 JASSM-ER, although Australian Defence has not publicly detailed the final number purchased. Both missiles use a common low-observable body design and carry an approximately 450-kilogram warhead. JASSM-ER entered U.S. Air Force service in 2014, while LRASM entered U.S. Air Force service in 2018 and U.S. Navy service in 2019. Australia also plans to integrate both weapons with its F-35A Lightning II fleet. The LRASM and JASSM-ER are part of Australia's wider long-range strike program, which also includes the Naval Strike Missile, Joint Strike Missile and AGM-88G AARGM-ER. Australia is also acquiring up to 220 BGM-109 Tomahawk missiles for its Hobart-class guided-missile destroyers. The broader long-range maritime and surface strike investment is planned at A$30 billion to A$37 billion over the next decade under Australia's Integrated Investment Program. The introduction of the two AGM-158 weapons involved the RAAF, Defence Delivery Group, Joint Capabilities Group, whole-of-government partners, and U.S. military and industry partners. The capability supports Australia's deterrence-through-denial approach outlined in the National Defence Strategy.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 16:06:41
World
TALLINN, Estonia — A shipment of ammunition for Estonia’s M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) is expected to arrive in the country shortly, Defence Minister Hanno Pevkur has said. Estonian specialists are currently in the United States preparing the rockets for transport. Once the remaining procedures are completed, the ammunition will begin its journey to Estonia and could arrive as early as this month, according to reports by Estonian public broadcaster ERR. The Estonian Centre for Defence Investments signed the original contract for HIMARS systems and associated missiles in late 2022. The order included ammunition with ranges of about 70 kilometres, including Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets, and 300 kilometres, in the form of ATACMS ballistic missiles. Pevkur said the United States is not currently transferring the longer-range 300-kilometre ATACMS missiles to its allies because of the ongoing situation involving the war with Iran. Shorter-range GMLRS ammunition and training rounds have been cleared for delivery. Estonia received all six HIMARS launchers from its first contract in April 2025. The systems were subsequently brought into service with the Estonian Defence Forces and conducted their first live-fire exercises in 2025. Estonia Orders Three More HIMARS Launchers Estonia signed a further contract with Lockheed Martin in April 2026 for three additional HIMARS launchers, along with more ammunition. Delivery of the additional systems is scheduled for 2027. The agreement also includes an investment of about $11 million in Estonia’s defence industry. Under the arrangement, Estonian companies are expected to develop local capabilities for maintaining HIMARS components. Lockheed Martin is also set to establish a HIMARS maintenance centre in Estonia. The facility is intended to provide an important maintenance and support capability for the HIMARS systems in the Baltic region. The original 2022 procurement package also included communications equipment, training, logistics support and different types of ammunition. With six launchers already in service and three more on order, Estonia is continuing to expand its HIMARS capability and ammunition stocks as part of its defence development.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 15:53:25
Europe
DÜSSELDORF, Germany — German defence company Rheinmetall has secured a major contract worth a low three-digit million-euro amount from an undisclosed international customer for 155mm artillery projectiles. The order covers a low five-figure number of projectiles. Rheinmetall said the contract was recognised in its third-quarter 2026 order intake, with production already underway and deliveries scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027. The customer, exact quantity and specific projectile designation have not been disclosed. The ammunition belongs to Rheinmetall’s standard 155mm artillery portfolio and is already in service with several NATO member states. Designed according to NATO’s Joint Ballistic Memorandum of Understanding (JBMOU), the projectiles can be used with standard 155mm systems including the Panzerhaubitze 2000, CAESAR, Archer and RCH 155. Rheinmetall says the ammunition provides long-range capability and high effectiveness. The contract comes as Rheinmetall continues to expand its artillery ammunition production following increased demand since 2022. The company plans to reach annual production capacity of around 1.1 million 155mm rounds by 2027 and approximately 1.5 million by 2030. Rheinmetall is expanding production facilities across Europe, including its Unterlüß site in Lower Saxony. In July 2026, the company began construction of a new powder-production facility at its Nitrochemie site in Aschau am Inn, Bavaria. The facility is planned to produce more than one million modular propellant charge modules, along with additional propellant powder and combustible components, with maximum production capacity expected in 2028. Rheinmetall also announced in July that projectiles from its new Werk Niedersachsen plant in Unterlüß had been delivered to Ukraine for the first time. The shipment involved a low five-figure number of 155mm projectiles, with additional propellant charges supplied from other Rheinmetall facilities. The latest order follows separate 155mm ammunition contracts for Ukraine announced by Rheinmetall in June and July 2026. One July contract, funded by a NATO member, covered several thousand 155mm shells and propellant charges, with delivery planned before April 2027. Rheinmetall’s Weapon and Ammunition division generated €1.757 billion in sales in the first six months of 2026, up 33 percent from the same period in 2025. The company said ammunition packages for Hungary, as well as artillery and medium-calibre ammunition for Ukraine, were among the main contributors. The latest international contract adds to Rheinmetall’s expanding 155mm ammunition production commitments as the company works toward its target of approximately 1.5 million rounds annually by 2030.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 15:23:33
World
JEDDAH — Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman met with U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) Commander Admiral Brad Cooper in Jeddah on Monday as Saudi Arabia responds to growing security concerns involving Yemen and Iraq. According to the Saudi Press Agency, the two officials discussed Saudi-U.S. military relations and the latest regional developments. Saudi Minister of State, Cabinet Member and National Security Adviser Musaed bin Mohammed Al-Aiban also attended the meeting. Houthi Forces Advance Along Red Sea Coast The meeting came amid a new escalation involving Yemen's Iran-aligned Houthi movement. The Houthis captured the port city of Mocha on September 10 and subsequently advanced toward the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Their reported capture of Mayun Island and positions in the Hanish Islands has increased their presence around the strategically important maritime area. The Bab el-Mandeb connects the Red Sea with the Gulf of Aden and is an important route for international shipping. The Houthi advances have also raised security concerns in southern Saudi Arabia. Saudi Civil Defense issued alerts for Najran, Khamis Mushait, Jazan and Abha following missile and drone attacks. The alerts were later lifted after authorities said the areas were safe. Drone Attack Hits East-West Pipeline Saudi Arabia is also dealing with a separate security incident involving its energy infrastructure. Drones launched from Iraqi territory reportedly struck Saudi Arabia's East-West oil pipeline on the night of September 10-11. The attacks affected pumping stations in the Riyadh and Medina regions and caused injuries and damage. Saudi Arabia temporarily shut down the pipeline as a precaution. The approximately 1,200-kilometer pipeline transports crude oil from Saudi Arabia's eastern oil-producing areas to the Red Sea port of Yanbu. The route provides Saudi Arabia with an alternative to shipping oil through the Strait of Hormuz. Saudi authorities said the drones originated from Iraq, while Iraqi authorities began an investigation into the attack. Riyadh has indicated that it is prepared to cooperate with Baghdad on a joint investigation. Saudi Arabia Seeks U.S. Support The recent developments have increased the importance of military coordination between Riyadh and Washington. According to reports, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman spoke with U.S. President Donald Trump as the Houthi offensive developed and sought U.S. military assistance. The United States did not agree to conduct direct strikes against the Houthis but offered intelligence-sharing and targeting assistance to Saudi Arabia. The United States and Saudi Arabia have also previously conducted joint military operations against Iran-aligned groups. On July 28, CENTCOM and Saudi forces carried out precision strikes in Iraq following more than 30 drone attacks over a 72-hour period, according to the information provided by U.S. officials. Regional Security Concerns Saudi Arabia is now monitoring developments involving the Houthis in Yemen as well as Iran-aligned armed groups operating from Iraq. The situation also comes amid wider regional tensions affecting energy infrastructure and maritime routes. A planned meeting in Oman between Gulf countries and Iran was postponed, with officials saying the delay was intended to provide better conditions for dialogue. The meeting between Mohammed bin Salman and Admiral Cooper comes as Riyadh continues discussions with Washington over defense cooperation and the security situation across the region.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 15:10:30
World
KYIV — Russia is increasing production of low-cost, jet-powered strike weapons, including the Geran-5 drone and S8000 Banderol cruise missile. Both systems use Chinese components and are estimated to cost around $100,000 each, far below the more than $2 million cost of high-end U.S. Tomahawk cruise missiles. The new weapons are designed to provide greater speed and strike capability than Russia's earlier propeller-driven Geran drones while remaining relatively inexpensive to produce. Geran-5 The Geran-5 was first identified in combat use in early January 2026. According to Ukraine's Main Intelligence Directorate (GUR), it has a maximum takeoff weight of about 850 kg, a cruising speed of 450–600 km/h, endurance of roughly two hours and a range of up to 950 km. It can operate at altitudes up to 6 km, although recorded use has been between 200 meters and 3 km. The drone carries a warhead of about 90 kg and uses a conventional fixed-wing design with a tubular fuselage. It is approximately 6 meters long, with a 5.5-meter wingspan, and uses carbon fiber over an aluminum and steel structure. Power comes from a Chinese Telefly TF-TJ2000A turbojet engine producing about 200 kg of thrust. Its equipment includes the Kometa-M12 satellite navigation system with a 12-element anti-jamming antenna, inertial navigation, a flight controller and Tracker V3 telemetry equipment using a Raspberry Pi-style computer with 3G/LTE modems. A Chinese Xingkai Tech XK-F358 mesh modem provides communication through a daisy-chain network between drones. GUR has also identified U.S.-made microchips from Texas Instruments, CTS Corporation and Monolithic Power Systems, along with at least one chip from Germany's Infineon Technologies. S8000 Banderol The S8000 Banderol, developed by Russia's Kronshtadt Group, was publicly detailed by Ukrainian intelligence in 2025. It is about 5 meters long, has a 2.2-meter wingspan and a range of up to 500 km. The missile cruises at around 520–560 km/h, with a maximum speed of approximately 650 km/h. It carries an OFBCh-150 high-explosive fragmentation warhead weighing 114.3 kg, including about 50 kg of explosives. The Banderol is powered by a commercially available Chinese Swiwin SW800Pro turbojet engine and combines inertial and satellite navigation. Its main launch platform is the Orion (Inokhodets) UAV. It has also been tested or used from Mi-28 helicopters, while ground-launched versions have been observed. Ukrainian sources estimate its cost at $50,000–$150,000, consistent with the roughly $100,000 estimate. Chinese Components and Production Investigations of wreckage recovered in Ukraine have identified Chinese engines, navigation equipment, communications systems, carbon-fiber materials and other dual-use components in Russian weapons. Some Western-made electronics have also been identified despite sanctions. Reports indicate that Russia is producing hundreds of jet-powered Geran variants each month. One reported target included approximately 1,200 Geran-4 and 800 Geran-5 drones in a single month, while Banderol production has been reported at up to 120 missiles per month. China has stated that it does not provide lethal weapons to either side and maintains controls on dual-use exports. Western and Ukrainian investigations have nevertheless identified supply routes through third countries that allow components to reach Russian production networks. Impact on Air Defense The higher speed of jet-powered drones gives Ukrainian air defenses less time to detect and engage them compared with slower propeller-driven drones. Ukraine has improved its ability to intercept older Geran systems, but the faster variants can require more capable and expensive air-defense systems. The low cost of the Russian weapons creates an economic challenge when expensive interceptors are used against them. The development also has implications beyond Ukraine. Russia, Iran and North Korea exchange military technology and production experience, while combat-tested developments from the war in Ukraine can potentially influence military programs elsewhere, including those of Iran and North Korea. The combination of low cost, higher speed, improved navigation and access to foreign components is allowing Russia to expand production while Ukraine and its partners continue adapting their air defenses and efforts to restrict sanctions-evasion supply networks.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 14:56:32
Europe
KIELCE, Poland — Polish aviation company Wojskowe Zakłady Lotnicze Nr 2 (WZL-2), part of the state-owned Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ), and private Polish technology company Blackfish P.S.A. presented the MAKO X1, a man-portable counter-drone launcher, at the MSPO 2026 International Defence Industry Exhibition in Kielce. The system was presented during MSPO, which was held from September 8 to 11, 2026. According to information from the developers and reports from the exhibition, the MAKO X1 is designed to intercept one-way attack drones in the Shahed/Geran class, particularly in open terrain. Single-Soldier Counter-Drone System The MAKO X1 uses a single-use interceptor drone carried in a handheld launcher. The interceptor can operate in a kinetic configuration or carry a warhead. The system is intended for Poland’s ground forces and special operations forces and is positioned as an alternative to conventional guided missiles for countering unmanned aerial systems. Its developers emphasize the interceptor's maneuverability and its ability to operate autonomously during the attack phase. Blackfish developed the interception software in-house. Initial target detection is performed exclusively through an optical channel, rather than an active radar. After launch, the interceptor is designed to conduct its attack autonomously. The developers state that the system is resistant to electronic interference during the attack phase, supporting operation in environments where electronic warfare can affect unmanned systems. MAKO X1 Specifications Parameter Specification Operator 1 soldier Maximum takeoff weight 3 kg Flight time About 10 minutes Maximum speed Up to 400 km/h Range Up to 10 km Service ceiling 4,000 m Target detection Optical channel Attack mode Autonomous Interceptor carried 1 Interceptor configuration Kinetic or warhead The published specifications show a compact interceptor with a maximum speed of 400 km/h, a range of 10 km, a service ceiling of 4,000 meters, and approximately 10 minutes of flight time. WZL-2 and Blackfish WZL-2 is part of PGZ and is one of Poland's major aviation companies. Its activities include maintenance, repair and modernization of military aircraft, as well as work involving unmanned systems. The company was among the Polish defense firms presenting a range of unmanned and aviation-related technologies at MSPO 2026. Blackfish is a privately owned Polish technology company involved in autonomous and counter-drone systems. For the MAKO X1, it developed the interception software and optical-based target-processing capability. WZL-2 also displayed the SAR EVO5 WP bomber drone at MSPO 2026, configured with four payload-release mechanisms. The MAKO X1 presentation reflects the growing focus on portable counter-UAS systems designed to give ground units a dedicated means of engaging attack drones. The developers have presented the system as a more maneuverable alternative to conventional guided missiles, while its stated specifications focus on short-range interception using an autonomous interceptor drone.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 13:55:56
U.S
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works is expanding its Vectis Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program by building four additional airframes, bringing the total planned number to five. The company announced the expansion during the Air, Space & Cyber Conference near Washington, D.C., where a full-scale Vectis model was displayed publicly for the first time. First Flight Remains Targeted for 2027 Ron Fehlen, vice president and general manager of Skunk Works, said development of the four additional aircraft is already underway. The first Vectis prototype remains on track for its initial flight by the end of 2027. The additional airframes will support expanded testing and production-process validation. Experience gained from the first aircraft is expected to help later airframes be built and flown more quickly. Vectis Aircraft Design Vectis is a tailless, subsonic, multirole unmanned aircraft designed for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft role. It is intended to operate independently or alongside crewed fighters such as the F-35. The aircraft is approximately: Length: 10.4 metres (34 feet) Wingspan: 11.6 metres (38 feet) Category: U.S. Group 5 unmanned aircraft Group 5 covers unmanned systems weighing more than 599 kilograms (1,320 pounds) and operating above 5,486 metres (18,000 feet). Vectis features a top-mounted submerged engine inlet, designed to reduce drag and lower the risk of debris entering the engine during operations from austere locations. The aircraft has an internal weapons bay and an open systems architecture designed to support multiple missions, including air-to-air, air-to-ground, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and electronic warfare. Engine and Development Weapons, production-engine details and unit cost have not been disclosed. The prototype will initially use a Williams International FJ44-4 turbofan producing more than 3,600 pounds of thrust. Lockheed Martin is examining higher-thrust options for later versions. The company has said Vectis is being designed to meet a competitive CCA price point. Lockheed Martin said the program progressed from the first design sketch to a wind-tunnel test in less than two months. The first digital build was completed in six months, while the first physical part was released in eight months. The company said the rapid development has been supported by digital design and manufacturing methods developed through internal investment. U.S. CCA Competition The U.S. Air Force selected General Atomics’ YFQ-42A and Anduril’s YFQ-44A for its first CCA increment. The service has outlined a longer-term goal of acquiring around 1,000 CCAs, with a target cost of about $20 million per aircraft before sensors and mission systems. Lockheed Martin is also discussing Vectis with potential U.S. Navy customers and international partners. The concept has previously been displayed at events including the Farnborough International Airshow. The company has not specified exact roles for the four additional Vectis airframes beyond expanded testing and production validation.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 13:39:13
U.S
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Air Force’s first 16 F-15EX Eagle II fighters recorded an average materiel availability rate of 72.4% in fiscal 2026, according to a U.S. Department of War acquisition report. The figure, measured on February 24, 2026, covers aircraft EX1 through EX16. The rate is 12.4 percentage points above the program’s 60% minimum sustainment threshold, but remains below the Air Force’s 80% objective. The report describes the result as slightly below the objective and notes no formal performance deviation. Availability and Fleet Expansion The 60% threshold and 80% objective come from the Air Force’s Rapid Fielding Requirements Document, which Air Combat Command validated in August 2020. The targets have remained unchanged under the current acquisition baseline. As of April 14, 2026, 18 F-15EX aircraft had been delivered. The revised acquisition plan covers 268 aircraft in total, as the Air Force prepares to expand the fleet. Testing and Operational Status The F-15EX completed its main operational test phase in November 2023. Initial operational and live-fire evaluations found the aircraft effective in defensive and offensive counter-air missions against surrogate fifth-generation adversary aircraft. Testing also confirmed a basic air-to-ground capability. The Air Force approved full-rate production in June 2024 and declared initial operational capability in July 2024. Production and Supply Risks The acquisition report treats production delays and material shortages as separate schedule and industrial risks rather than performance shortfalls. It states that the F-15EX continues to meet all approved technical performance and cost thresholds. A 15-week strike at Boeing’s St. Louis production facility from August to November 2025 caused delivery delays. The disruption, along with parts and material supply risks, pushed the projected full operational capability date to early 2028. The Air Force continues efforts to increase production rates. Under the fiscal 2027 budget request, recent program updates put the planned fleet at approximately 267–268 aircraft. Operating and Support Costs The report estimates annual operating and support costs at $13.1 million per fighter in constant fiscal 2020 dollars. The estimated annual cost includes: Maintenance: $7.2 million Unit operations: $3 million Unit-level manpower: $1.9 million Sustaining support and continuing system improvements: Remaining costs Software and Aircraft Configuration F-15EX software is provided through the separate F-15 Continuous Development and Integration program, which also supports the F-15C, F-15D and F-15E. The report identifies no significant software-related problems for the F-15EX. The two-seat F-15EX Eagle II is based on the F-15QA configuration built for Qatar and includes Air Force-specific electronic warfare systems and mission software. It is initially intended to replace aging F-15C and F-15D aircraft in defensive and offensive counter-air missions. The 72.4% availability rate provides an early measure of F-15EX sustainment performance as the Air Force continues deliveries and prepares to expand the fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2026-09-14 13:29:44Search
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