U.S
WASHINGTON, — The US military has developed updated contingency plans for strikes against Iranian energy infrastructure and nuclear facilities, including the possible use of the GBU-43/B Massive Ordnance Air Blast (MOAB), according to a CNN report citing multiple US officials familiar with the planning. The plans were developed at the direction of President Donald Trump and could be used if the administration decides to resume major combat operations. The reported options include strikes before a US military withdrawal from the Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. However, no decision to launch the proposed attacks has been reported. MOAB Considered for Iranian Targets The MOAB, also known as the “Mother of All Bombs,” is the largest non-nuclear bomb in the US arsenal. It weighs approximately 21,600 pounds (9,800 kilograms), measures around 30 feet long and contains roughly 18,700 pounds of Composition H-6 explosive. The GPS-guided weapon is designed to detonate above the ground, producing a powerful blast across a wide area. It is delivered by a C-130 aircraft and was first used operationally in Afghanistan in 2017 against an Islamic State tunnel complex. According to CNN, the proposed strike packages include extensive energy infrastructure and nuclear-related targets. One source said the planning documents refer to attacks “prior to US retrograde in CENTCOM AOR,” suggesting strikes could precede a withdrawal of American forces from the region. The reported plans include the possible use of the MOAB against Pickaxe Mountain, an underground Iranian nuclear-related facility. However, military sources have questioned whether the bomb could effectively damage deeply buried structures because it is designed for large-area blast effects rather than deep penetration. Its use near energy facilities could also cause civilian casualties and disrupt essential services. Pickaxe Mountain's Underground Facility Pickaxe Mountain, known in Persian as Kuh-e Kolang Gaz La, is located approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometres south of Iran's Natanz nuclear complex in central Iran, within the Zagros mountain region. The mountain rises about 1,608 metres above sea level. Construction of the underground facility began in 2020. Analysts estimate its main halls are at least 100 metres (330 feet) beneath solid granite or hard volcanic rock. Iran has described the site as intended for advanced centrifuge production and assembly, but international inspectors have not been granted access. US and Israeli officials believe Iran has stored nuclear programme components there. Some assessments suggest the facility could also store enriched uranium or support other nuclear-related activities. The site was not struck during earlier US and Israeli attacks. Even the US GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator, a conventional bunker-busting weapon weighing approximately 30,000 pounds, could struggle to reach facilities protected by such thick layers of hard rock. Analysts have also questioned whether a tactical nuclear weapon would guarantee the site's destruction because of the surrounding geology. No nuclear weapon is identified in the reported strike plans. Trump Keeps Options Open Trump has publicly stated that the United States would not launch new military action against Iran before the November 3, 2026, midterm elections. However, advisers told CNN they were uncertain whether that position could change before Election Day. A White House official declined to confirm the specific plans, saying Trump “keeps all options on the table to ensure that Iran can never have a nuclear weapon.” A Pentagon official said the department prepares for a wide range of operational scenarios to carry out presidential and secretary-level direction and ensure mission success. The Pentagon and Iran's Foreign Ministry had not issued specific statements on the reported plans at the time of the report. The United States and Israel began striking Iran in February 2026. Full combat operations were subsequently paused, but tensions have continued, particularly around the Strait of Hormuz. The reported plans provide additional military options if Washington decides to resume major combat operations. The potential use of the MOAB would mark its first reported use in the current conflict with Iran, but the timing and execution of any new strikes remain unconfirmed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 16:35:49
India
BENGALURU, — Bengaluru-based defence startup NewSpace Research & Technologies (NRT) has successfully completed the first rocket-assisted take-off (RATO) trial of its Sheshnaag-150 long-range one-way attack drone. The trial was conducted by the company's GryphonWorks team, adding a new launch capability to the Indian-designed, developed and manufactured strike platform. Previously, the Sheshnaag-150 relied mainly on vehicle-based launches. The rocket-assisted method allows it to take off without a conventional runway, including from shorter and unprepared locations. This increases deployment flexibility in remote and difficult terrain. Sheshnaag-150 Specifications and Capabilities The Sheshnaag-150 is a 150-kg-class loitering munition with an operational range exceeding 1,000 kilometres and an endurance of more than five hours. It can carry a high-explosive fragmentation warhead weighing between 25 and 40 kilograms. The drone is designed for coordinated swarm attacks, in which multiple unmanned aircraft operate together to engage targets. Its loitering capability allows it to remain over an area for surveillance and target identification before striking. Visual navigation and onboard systems are intended to support operations in GPS-denied environments where satellite navigation signals are jammed or unavailable. The platform is powered by an air-cooled boxer engine designed for sustained flight and operational reliability, including in high-altitude environments. Earlier Trials and Performance The Sheshnaag-150 completed its first flight at the Chitradurga Aeronautical Test Range by February 2025 and made its public debut at Aero India 2025. In April 2026, the drone underwent testing at the Pokhran Test Range in Rajasthan, covering approximately 720 kilometres without a live warhead. The reported trial demonstrated long-distance flight performance, stability and terminal strike capabilities. Reported accuracy figures have placed its circular error probable (CEP) below 10 metres, with some accounts citing approximately five metres. Part of India's Indigenous Drone Programme The Sheshnaag-150 is part of NRT's wider Sheshnaag family of one-way attack drones, described as covering strike ranges from 15 kilometres to 1,000 kilometres. The project began as an internal company development effort and was subsequently accelerated following the Indian military's interest in indigenous long-range swarm-strike capabilities. The platform is intended for potential use by the Indian Army, Indian Air Force and other military services. It has been compared with Iran's Shahed-136 and the US Low-cost Uncrewed Combat Attack System (LUCAS), although such comparisons do not establish identical specifications or performance. The successful rocket-assisted take-off trial adds a new deployment option to the existing vehicle-based launch method. NRT continues development and testing of the system as India pursues indigenous long-range unmanned strike capabilities. A confirmed military induction timeline has not been established by the information provided.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 16:09:02
U.S
WASHINGTON, D.C., — American defense technology company Moog Inc. showcased its MR SLED (Moog Reconfigurable Self-Loading Equipment Dock) mobile defense system at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) 2026 Annual Meeting and Exposition, held in Washington, D.C., from October 12 to 14. The system combines tactical missiles, drone interceptors, radar and digital command integration on a modular vehicle-mounted platform. Lightweight Platform for Multiple Vehicles MR SLED is built around Moog’s Lightweight Reconfigurable Integrated-weapons Platform (RIwP), a lighter version of the standard RIwP used on the U.S. Army’s Stryker-based Mobile Short-Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) vehicles, also known as SGT Stout. The Lightweight RIwP base assembly weighs less than 950 pounds (approximately 431 kg), compared with around 2,500 pounds for the standard version. It retains the same software architecture, fire-control interfaces and support systems to simplify training and maintenance. The system can be installed on pickup trucks, light tactical vehicles, Infantry Squad Vehicles, 6x6 platforms and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) without major custom modifications. One demonstration configuration used a BC Customs PSXV-XL-6X6 vehicle. Moog designed MR SLED to support short-range air defense, counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) and future U.S. Army M-SHORAD Increment 4 requirements. Zeus Missiles and Kestrel Interceptors The demonstrated system combined Aeon Industrial’s Zeus tactical missiles with Moog’s Kestrel interceptors. Reports differ on the number of Zeus missiles carried, with configurations listing either nine or 12, alongside 37 Kestrel interceptors. Originally developed by Texas-based Aeon as an anti-tank missile, Zeus has been adapted for air defense and precision-strike missions. Its publicly reported range is approximately 4–5 kilometres, with a speed exceeding Mach 0.65 and a 2.7 kg (6-pound) warhead. Its reported unit cost is around $50,000. The missile uses Aeon’s ODIN targeting software for automatic threat identification, tracking and strike options. Its modular design supports payload changes and integration with different platforms, including vehicles and, in some configurations, shoulder-fired launchers. Earlier in 2026, Aeon and Moog completed a guided flight test of Zeus launched from a Moog turret mounted on an unmanned ground vehicle. The missile hit its target on the first attempt. The Kestrel interceptors are intended to counter small unmanned aircraft systems and loitering munitions. Their role is broadly comparable to low-cost kinetic interceptors such as the Kreuger 100, developed by Sweden’s Nordic Air Defence. However, detailed public specifications for Kestrel remain limited, and its interception performance against fast-moving or swarming drones has not been established by the available information. Radar, Software and Additional Weapons The AUSA configuration also integrated Echodyne’s EchoShield 3D pulse-Doppler active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar for search and tracking. The radar supports AI- and machine-learning-based target classification and operation while moving. Picogrid’s Legion software provides digital integration and connections to command networks, allowing soldiers to coordinate sensors and weapons and reconfigure the system in the field. The RIwP architecture can also accommodate direct-fire weapons, including 30 mm cannons and machine guns, depending on the configuration. Moog describes MR SLED as a scalable solution that can be adapted to the payload limits of different vehicles while using components common to existing Army air-defense and counter-drone programs. The platform was nominated for an AUSA Best New Product award. Although the system offers a flexible combination of weapons and sensors, detailed public performance data for Kestrel and the complete MR SLED configuration remain limited. Its operational effectiveness against different aerial threats will depend on the capabilities demonstrated during testing and evaluation.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 16:05:08
World
YANGPYEONG, South Korea, — South Korea’s Hanwha Systems has reported a 100% interception rate in a live-fire test of its Cheongwang laser air defense system, destroying all three target drones during a South Korean Army exercise on October 14. The demonstration took place in Yangpyeong, Gyeonggi Province, during the Army TIGER+ Future Warfare Integrated Combat Exercise. Approximately 500 military, academic and defense industry representatives attended, including South Korean Army Chief of Staff General Kim Gyu-ha. Cheongwang, officially designated as the Laser Air Defense Weapon Block-I, was developed jointly by Hanwha Systems and South Korea’s Agency for Defense Development (ADD). South Korea began deploying the system in December 2024. Hanwha describes it as the world’s first operationally deployed laser weapon system. Upgraded 30 kW Laser System The 30-kilowatt-class vehicle-mounted laser cannon was upgraded under the programme management of the Korea Research Institute for Defense Technology Planning and Advancement (KRIT). The improvements include miniaturised, lightweight components for easier vehicle installation and phase-change-based cooling technology to manage heat generated during high-power operation. Hanwha has increased the system’s domestic component localisation rate from 70% to 90%. The company reports that Cheongwang can neutralise a drone in approximately one to two seconds by focusing a high-energy laser beam on the target. The system’s firing cost is approximately 2,000 South Korean won, or $1.50, per shot. It uses electricity instead of conventional ammunition, reducing ammunition resupply requirements. The system is designed to support continuous operation for up to 24 hours when an adequate power supply is maintained. Previous Test Intercepted Six Targets On September 16, 2026, Cheongwang intercepted six aerial targets in succession during the Defense Drone Technology Exhibition at the South Korean Army’s Seungjin training range. The targets included four multirotor drones and two unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Hanwha reported that all six were successfully neutralised. The system is primarily intended to counter small drones used for reconnaissance, surveillance and direct attacks, offering an alternative to using conventional missiles against every aerial target. Hanwha Developing a 50 kW Laser Vehicle Hanwha Systems is also developing a 50-kilowatt laser armoured vehicle for international customers. The export-focused design aims to provide higher laser power and improved mobility. The vehicle was displayed at the MSPO 2026 defense exhibition in Kielce, Poland, and South Korea’s September Defense Drone Technology Exhibition. Development is targeted for completion by 2027, with serial production planned by the end of that year. Hanwha has not disclosed the system’s engagement range or additional detailed performance specifications. Joohun Shin, head of Hanwha Systems’ Laser Systems Business Center, said: “Laser weapons are core assets that will fundamentally change the game of air defense. Driven by unmatched technological capability and proven operational performance, we will accelerate our entry into the global market to establish both Cheongwang and the high-mobility, high-power 50kW Laser Armored Vehicle as key next-generation export items for K-Defense.” Hanwha is positioning Cheongwang and the planned 50 kW laser vehicle for domestic defense and international counter-drone markets, with the latter remaining under development.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 16:00:59
World
SANAA, Yemen — Yemen’s Houthis Attempt to Manufacture Advanced Ballistic Missiles Using Chinese Components Yemen’s Houthi group is attempting to manufacture advanced medium-range ballistic missiles using components sourced from Chinese suppliers, according to an assessment by Conflict Armament Research (CAR), a UK-based organisation that investigates weapons and supply chains in conflict zones. The effort could reduce the group’s reliance on complete Iranian-supplied missile systems and expand its domestic weapons production capabilities. Intercepted Shipments Reveal Missile Components According to The Wall Street Journal, The Times of Israel and The Jerusalem Post, the findings are based on information provided by Yemeni authorities following the interception of two shipments in 2025. The cargoes were destined for Houthi-controlled areas, with missile-related equipment concealed among commercial goods. Investigators identified custom-made metal components for missile motors and airframes, stabilising fins, solid-propellant rocket motor components, specialised tools, testing equipment and raw materials. These included ablative material used to protect missile sections from extreme heat during atmospheric flight. Shipping records reportedly linked some components to a Chinese precision-metal manufacturer specialising in custom aerospace parts. Possible Development of a Kheibar Shekan-Type Missile The seized materials were associated with a possible Houthi effort to manufacture a local version of Iran’s Kheibar Shekan precision-guided ballistic missile, which Iran publicly displayed in Tehran in 2022. The missile has a reported range of approximately 1,200 miles (around 1,900 kilometres), potentially placing all of Saudi Arabia and Israel within the reach of a comparable Houthi weapon. The Kheibar Shekan can manoeuvre during flight, while some versions feature a detachable warhead capable of adjusting its trajectory during the final descent. These characteristics can complicate interception by air and missile defence systems. However, the available evidence does not confirm that the Houthis have successfully replicated these capabilities. Chinese Supply Networks Under Scrutiny Henry Thompson, a former expert on the UN panel monitoring sanctions related to Yemen, said solid-fuel ballistic missile technology had been entering Yemen from China for several years. UN information and arms-tracking data indicate that approximately 35 per cent of documented military items destined for the Houthis originated in China between 2021 and 2025, compared with around 5 per cent in earlier periods. China has stated that it complies with the UN arms embargo on the Houthis and does not supply the group with weapons. The assessment does not establish direct involvement by the Chinese government in the shipments. Some intercepted materials have potential civilian applications, while others appear specifically associated with missile systems. Missile Production Status Remains Unclear Fabian Hinz, a senior analyst at CAR, said the evidence indicates that the Houthis are attempting to manufacture advanced missiles, but the programme’s progress remains uncertain. The group’s heavily camouflaged facilities make it difficult to determine whether it has completed operational missiles or remains in the development and testing stages. The Houthis have previously relied on Iranian weapons and technology and have conducted missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, Israel and commercial shipping in the Red Sea. If successful, local production of a Kheibar Shekan-type missile could reduce the group’s dependence on imported complete weapons and expand its independent capabilities. However, the intercepted components do not confirm that the Houthis have successfully manufactured, tested or deployed such a missile.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 15:48:44
U.S
WASHINGTON, — The U.S. Air Force plans to field operational prototypes of its Massed Modular Aircraft (MMA) unmanned aircraft by 2028, with large-scale production scheduled to begin in 2029. The aircraft is intended to succeed the MQ-9 Reaper in long-range reconnaissance and strike missions. Air Force Secretary Troy Meink announced the timeline on October 14 during the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) annual conference in Washington. The service aims to have approximately 100 MMA aircraft by 2029 and expand the fleet to 500 by 2032. Project Agincourt and Development Contracts The MMA program falls under Project Agincourt, a rapid-acquisition initiative supported by the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU). Established through a memorandum signed in September 2026, the initiative aims to accelerate autonomous military systems across the armed forces and support the creation of an Autonomous Warfare Command. The Air Force has awarded initial development contracts, but officials have not disclosed the selected companies or contract values. Previously identified contenders include Anduril, Chaos Industries, General Atomics, Grid Aero, Otto Aerospace, Shield AI and Swarm Aero. The available information does not confirm which companies received awards. Cost, Range and Technical Requirements The Air Force has set a target price of approximately $10 million per basic aircraft, excluding weapons and sensors. This is roughly half the projected cost of an individual Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA). Designers are studying a turboprop propulsion system for the MMA, with a planned range of approximately 6,400 kilometers (3,977 miles), nearly twice the range cited for the CCA. The aircraft is designed to prioritize endurance, payload capacity and affordability over speed. Program requirements include: Payload capacity: At least 2,800 pounds (1,270 kilograms). Unrefueled combat radius: At least 2,300 nautical miles while carrying a payload. One-way self-deployment range: At least 8,000 nautical miles. Runway requirement: No longer than 6,000 feet. Minimum speed: 200 knots. The modular aircraft is intended to carry interchangeable payloads for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), strike missions, electronic warfare and communications. These figures are program requirements, not confirmed performance results from a completed aircraft. MQ-9 Reaper Losses Drive Replacement Effort An October 5, 2026, Congressional Research Service report stated that the U.S. military had lost at least 45 MQ-9 Reapers since Operation Epic Fury began in February 2026. The Air Force's MQ-9 inventory also declined from 351 aircraft in fiscal year 2022 to approximately 135 by May 2026. The Reaper, which costs approximately $30 million per aircraft according to the provided program information, performs reconnaissance and precision-strike missions. The MMA's lower target price is intended to support larger-scale procurement and make it less costly to replace aircraft lost during operations. Relationship With Collaborative Combat Aircraft The MMA complements the Air Force's separate CCA program, which focuses on jet-powered autonomous aircraft designed to operate alongside crewed fighters. General Atomics' FQ-42A Vengeance and Anduril's FQ-44A Fury have been selected for the CCA effort and are flying with the Experimental Operations Unit at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada. While the CCA emphasizes autonomous combat aircraft, the MMA is intended to provide a lower-cost, longer-range platform combining reconnaissance and strike capabilities. The Air Force plans to begin large-scale MMA production in 2029, with the goal of reaching 500 aircraft by 2032. Achieving these targets will depend on development, testing, manufacturing capacity and the aircraft's ability to meet its cost and performance requirements.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 15:40:49
World
LINKÖPING, Sweden — Swedish defence and aerospace company Saab has received a SEK 1.3 billion order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to develop a new-generation flight control computer for the Gripen fighter aircraft. Deliveries are planned for 2030. Replacing the Existing Computer The new computer will replace the existing hardware used in the JAS 39C/D and JAS 39E/F variants. According to FMV, the current system was originally developed for the older JAS 39A and is approaching the end of its technical lifespan, making sustainable maintenance increasingly difficult. The flight control computer is a safety-critical component that translates pilot inputs into commands for the aircraft’s control surfaces, enabling safe and precise manoeuvring. The replacement will undergo design and verification testing before delivery. Designed for Long-Term Operations Saab said the new computer will meet the military’s long-term requirements for performance, hardware availability and security of supply. The project will be carried out in close cooperation with FMV to support the Gripen fleet’s future operational needs. “We look forward to continuing our close collaboration with FMV. The new flight control computer will contribute to Gripen’s capability and performance for decades to come,” said Marcus Wandt, head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area. Carl-Fredrik Edström, head of Flight and Space Materiel at FMV, highlighted the computer’s critical role in the JAS 39 system’s safety and operational success.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 15:24:33
World
KYIV, — Ukraine has restored connectivity to SpaceX’s Starshield military satellite service after unexpected speed restrictions disrupted drone operations, frontline logistics and air defence missions. Ukrainian defence sources confirmed on Thursday that terminals could again maintain connectivity at speeds of up to 160 km/h (about 100 mph), although officials continue to seek the complete removal of speed limits. The restrictions began overnight between October 13 and 14 without prior notice. Presidential adviser Serhii Beskrestnov, known as Flash, initially reported a speed limit of approximately 160 km/h (100 mph). However, subsequent reports from military personnel and volunteer Serhii Sternenko indicated that connectivity on some terminals dropped at speeds of 60–70 km/h (37–43 mph). The cause remains unclear, and Ukraine’s Defence Ministry is discussing the incident with SpaceX and its partners. Drone Operations Disrupted Ukraine’s 7th Air Assault Corps, operating in the southern Huliaipole sector, reported satellite connection losses lasting 10 to 20 seconds for drones travelling at 110–120 km/h. Slowing drones to maintain connectivity increased their vulnerability to Russian air defence systems. The disruption affected medium-range strike missions, reconnaissance, frontline logistics, communications relay and air defence interceptions. Some units cancelled combat missions during the outage. A National Guard officer identified only as Yuriy for security reasons said connectivity had returned at speeds above 100 mph by Thursday morning, although several operations had already been disrupted. Beskrestnov said the restrictions also affected interceptor drones used against Russian Shahed-type attack drones, which can travel at approximately 320 km/h. Interceptors reportedly risked losing satellite links, crashing or deviating from their flight paths when accelerating to pursue their targets. Ukraine Seeks Removal of Restrictions Former Ukrainian Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov thanked SpaceX chief executive Elon Musk for the restored service but stressed that completely removing the speed limits was necessary for Ukraine’s defence operations. Yehor Cherniev, deputy chairman of Ukraine’s parliamentary committee on national security, defence and intelligence, told Business Insider that Starshield had returned to its pre-disruption capacity. Musk stated on X that Starshield is owned and controlled by the US government, with speed and usage limits determined by the US military and ultimately the president. He distinguished Starshield from commercial Starlink, which is operated by SpaceX. However, US administration officials told Axios that the government had not ordered the restrictions and disputed the suggestion that it controlled SpaceX’s operations. They said they would contact the company to investigate the disruption. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed frustration, stating that failures involving defence interceptors had resulted in casualties during Russian attacks. The incident occurred amid broader disagreements between Kyiv and Washington over Russian oil infrastructure strikes and diesel trade agreements. Separate Suspected Sabotage Incidents in Europe The disruption coincided with separate incidents involving Starlink infrastructure in Europe. In September, Polish authorities opened an investigation after a fire damaged electrical equipment at a Starlink ground station, with prosecutors suspecting possible Russian intelligence involvement. Earlier in the same week as the Ukrainian outage, Bulgarian authorities reported that masked men deliberately set fire to 11 of 17 Starlink antennas at a facility near Sofia. The antennas serve Ukraine and other regional customers. No confirmed evidence directly links the two incidents. Service Restored, Discussions Continue Starlink and Starshield have supported Ukrainian military communications since Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. Their satellite links support communications for military units, vehicles and drones. The latest disruption lasted approximately a day, and access to both standard Starlink and Starshield was reported to have stabilised. Ukrainian officials continue to monitor service through military unit reports and negotiate with SpaceX and its partners to establish the cause and prevent future interruptions. The complete removal of speed restrictions remains an unresolved issue.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 14:38:33
World
SEOUL, — North Korea test-fired two types of submarine-launched strategic cruise missiles off its east coast on Wednesday, October 14, in the Sea of Japan, also known as the East Sea. State media KCNA reported on Thursday that the exercise was a routine mobilisation-readiness inspection aimed at assessing the readiness of the navy’s underwater combat systems and confirming the reliability of the country’s war deterrent. Senior military officials observed the launches. KCNA said the exercise had no adverse impact on the security of neighbouring countries but did not disclose the missiles’ designations, ranges, flight times or warhead types. South Korea Identifies Hero Kim Kun Ok Submarine South Korea’s Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS) said it tracked the missiles using multiple assets from before launch through their cruise and terminal phases. Based on tracking data and photographs released by KCNA, South Korean analysts identified the launch platform as the Hero Kim Kun Ok. North Korea unveiled the modified diesel-electric submarine in September 2023. Based on an older Romeo-class design, it is widely described as North Korea’s largest tactical attack submarine and the country’s first publicly claimed tactical nuclear attack submarine. Images released during its unveiling showed multiple missile launch hatches alongside conventional torpedo tubes. Two Different Missile Launch Methods A JCS spokesperson assessed that one cruise missile was launched through a vertical launch system (VLS), while the other was fired from a torpedo tube. A VLS provides a separate missile-launch arrangement and can potentially support larger, faster salvos. This could reduce warning times and complicate an adversary’s efforts to detect and intercept incoming missiles. However, the latest test did not establish that the missiles can reliably penetrate regional defence systems. Some South Korean analysts suggested that the weapons may have included a longer-range cruise missile associated with the Hwasal-2 series and a Pulhwasal-3-31 variant. North Korea did not confirm these identifications or provide further technical details. First Reported Test Since January 2024 The October 14 exercise was North Korea’s first publicly reported submarine-launched strategic cruise missile test since January 2024, when the country said it had fired Pulhwasal-3-31 missiles from a different, smaller submarine. The latest test forms part of leader Kim Jong Un’s broader effort to develop a sea-based nuclear deterrent, alongside North Korea’s work on ballistic and cruise missiles launched from different platforms. Experts Assess Submarine’s Operational Readiness Shin Jong-woo, secretary-general of the Korea Defence and Security Forum, said the tests indicated that combat-system trials for operational deployment were under way. He also said North Korea could attempt a submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test in the near future. Hong Min, a senior researcher at the Korea Institute for National Unification, said North Korea’s description of the exercise as a readiness inspection, rather than a development test, appeared intended to signal that the submarine was moving towards deployment. However, he assessed that its operational capability remained limited. The submarine has yet to demonstrate sustained submerged patrols, reliable missile launches while fully submerged and submarine-launched ballistic missile operations. These remain important factors in assessing its readiness for regular operational service. Regional Security Implications The test highlights North Korea’s continued efforts to expand its underwater strike capabilities and diversify its missile-launch platforms. The effectiveness of these systems will depend on their reliability and the submarine’s ability to operate without detection. South Korea tracked the missiles throughout their flights and shared intelligence with the United States. The test took place amid continuing tensions on the Korean Peninsula and a series of North Korean missile launches.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 14:28:11
World
CRETE, GREECE, — The German Air Force has completed the operational certification of its IRIS-T SLM ground-based air defence system following a successful live firing in mid-October at NATO’s Missile Firing Installation (NAMFI) on the Greek island of Crete. The certification clears the way for the system’s further integration into regular German and multinational air defence operations. Air Defence Missile Group 61 (Flugabwehrraketengruppe 61), based in Todendorf on Germany’s Baltic coast, conducted the firing as part of the multinational tactical exercise Spartan Arrow 26. Around 150 soldiers from the unit participated, operating the system’s main components, including the Hensoldt TRML-4D radar, Common Tactical Operations Center (CTOC) and interceptor launcher. Following the certification shot, IRIS-T SLM joined a combined air defence scenario alongside German and Swedish Patriot systems and the German Army’s Stinger and LeFlaSys short-range air defence systems. Airbus Defence and Space supported the networking of the participating systems, while the Surface to Air Missile Operations Centre (SAMOC) provided central coordination for joint operations. Swedish forces participated with their Patriot system and also conducted their first independent live firing during the networked exercise. Sweden decided in 2025 to procure the IRIS-T SLM. IRIS-T SLM Capabilities and German Service Manufactured by Diehl Defence, IRIS-T SLM is designed to protect cities and critical infrastructure against cruise missiles, drones, aircraft and helicopters. The system has an effective range of up to 60 kilometres and an interception altitude of up to 20 kilometres, while the interceptor itself has a maximum engagement range of approximately 40 kilometres. The system has been used operationally in Ukraine since 2022. The German military received its first IRIS-T SLM fire unit in September 2024 as the Bundeswehr works to strengthen its ground-based air defence capabilities. Helmut Rauch, chief executive of Diehl Defence, said the successful certification firing confirmed the system’s reliable performance and high hit rate. He described the achievement as an important development for the Bundeswehr and the ten nations that already rely on the company’s air defence system. Lieutenant Colonel Björn Klarl, commander of Air Defence Missile Group 61, praised his personnel for mastering the system and conducting the launch safely and precisely. He said the achievement marked an important step forward for Germany’s ground-based air defence. The firing took place at NAMFI, near Chania, Crete. Established under an agreement signed in 1964, the facility has supported NATO partners’ live missile firings since 1968. Germany used the range because it lacks a domestic facility suitable for this class of long-range testing. The successful certification and subsequent networked exercise mark an important milestone in integrating IRIS-T SLM into Germany’s layered air defence, alongside Patriot and short-range systems.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 14:14:45
World
KYIV, — Ukraine’s Naval Forces carried out an overnight missile strike on Russia’s Borisoglebsk air base in the Voronezh region on October 14–15, targeting six Su-34M bombers with a longer-range version of the Neptune missile system, according to Ukrainian military statements. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said four aircraft were destroyed and two others were hit. He added that the bombers had been loaded with aerial bombs and prepared for further strikes. New satellite images showing the aftermath of the attack reveal debris from two Su-34 aircraft. Earlier imagery published by the open-source intelligence group AviVector showed six bombers parked in the targeted area on October 13. Images captured on October 15 showed extensive damage, including wreckage and scorch marks. Based on the available imagery, the worst-case damage assessment indicates that four Su-34 bombers may have been destroyed and two more damaged. Monitoring channel Exilenova+ has also reported a similar assessment. The full extent of the losses remains subject to further verification. The Ukrainian Navy also reported the destruction of ground equipment supporting aviation operations. Secondary explosions and a large fire followed the missile impacts. Ukraine’s military said it was still completing its damage assessment. 🔻 Satellite images of 🇷🇺 Borisoglebsk Air Base as of October 15, 08:25 UTC On the night of October 15, several Su-34 were destroyed at Borisoglebsk Air Base. https://t.co/3ZNBWhU6UD — AviVector (@avivector) October 15, 2026 Russian Air Base and Aircraft Operations Borisoglebsk air base is located approximately six kilometers east of the city of Borisoglebsk in Russia’s Voronezh Oblast. Historically, it served as a training facility associated with the 160th Training Aviation Regiment and the 783rd Training Aviation Center, with Yak-130 and Su-25 aircraft used for training. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the base also began hosting operational combat aircraft, including Su-34 bombers, Su-35S fighters and Su-30SM aircraft. The Su-34 and upgraded Su-34M are used by Russian forces to deliver guided and high-explosive aerial bombs against Ukrainian military positions and frontline settlements. These weapons allow aircraft to attack targets from a distance, potentially keeping them outside the range of some Ukrainian air-defense systems. Russian Response and Damage Assessment Local residents reported explosions and a large fire near Borisoglebsk after a missile alert was declared in the region on the evening of October 14. Voronezh Region Governor Alexander Gusev said Russian air defenses intercepted 33 drones and several jet-powered aerial targets overnight but did not specifically address damage to the air base. Russian authorities had not issued a detailed public confirmation of the reported aircraft losses at the time of the initial reports. The Neptune missile was originally developed as an anti-ship missile and has since been adapted for land-attack missions. Zelenskyy confirmed that a longer-range version was used in this operation and thanked the Ukrainian Navy. The strike is part of Ukraine’s wider campaign against Russian military infrastructure. Satellite imagery and Ukrainian statements provide the main publicly available evidence of the damage, while the full extent of the aircraft losses and their operational impact remain subject to further verification.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 14:04:04
U.S
WASHINGTON, — L3Harris Technologies and Divergent Technologies have signed a teaming agreement to increase production of affordable munitions, initially focusing on L3Harris’ Wolf Pack family, which includes the Red Wolf and Green Wolf systems. Announced during the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) event, the partnership will apply Divergent’s additive manufacturing technology to increase production, reduce costs and accelerate future aerospace and defence programmes. The agreement will integrate Divergent’s Adaptive Production System (DAPS), which combines AI-enabled design software, metal 3D printing and automated robotic assembly without traditional design-specific tooling. Quinlan Lyte, President of Advanced Effects at L3Harris’ Missile Solutions, said the battlefield requires affordable, capable munitions to counter low-cost threats at scale. Divergent CEO and Co-Founder Lukas Czinger said the partnership would support current production programmes and accelerate future development. Wolf Pack Systems and Capabilities L3Harris’ launched-effects portfolio is designed for long-range precision strikes and non-kinetic missions. The company reports 60 flight demonstrations, comprising 13 launches from fixed-wing aircraft, three from rotary-wing aircraft and 44 from ground platforms. The Wolf Pack vehicles share a modular design and software supporting real-time in-flight collaboration, dynamic retargeting and autonomous swarming. Published family-level specifications include a low-altitude range exceeding 200 nautical miles (370 kilometres), endurance of more than 60 minutes and high-subsonic flight speeds. Launch options include fixed-wing aircraft, rotary-wing platforms and ground-based systems, with rocket-assisted launches also supported from ground and maritime platforms. The common air vehicle reduces integration and logistical requirements. The systems can be configured for recovery and have supported multiple radios, electronic warfare payloads, a seeker and autonomy engines during testing. Red Wolf: Precision Strike Red Wolf is the kinetic-strike variant, designed for long-range precision attacks against designated targets. It supports modular payloads and shares the published range, endurance and speed characteristics of the Wolf Pack family. It has demonstrated launch compatibility with multiple platforms, including the U.S. Marine Corps’ AH-1Z Viper attack helicopter. In January 2026, the U.S. Naval Air Systems Command awarded L3Harris an $86.2 million contract under the Marine Corps’ Precision Attack Strike Munition (PASM) programme for Red Wolf development, testing and manufacturing. Deliveries are planned by the end of fiscal year 2027. Exact dimensions, weight, warhead specifications and guidance-seeker details have not been publicly disclosed. Green Wolf: Electronic Warfare Green Wolf is designed for electronic attacks and detect, identify, locate and report (DILR) missions. It shares Red Wolf’s modular design and software features, including in-flight coordination, dynamic retargeting and autonomous swarming. Its electronic-warfare payload is intended to work alongside Red Wolf during coordinated missions. Specific figures for its individual range, payload weight, transmitter power and detailed electronic-warfare performance have not been publicly released. Production Expansion Divergent’s DAPS platform uses AI-enabled design, large-scale metal additive manufacturing and autonomous robotic assembly to produce complex metal and multi-material structures without traditional design-specific tooling. The company has also applied the technology to defence programmes involving General Atomics and Raytheon. The agreement aims to increase production of existing Wolf Pack systems and identify opportunities to accelerate future defence manufacturing. However, financial terms, production quantities, cost targets and delivery schedules under the new agreement have not been disclosed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 13:46:23
U.S
WASHINGTON, D.C. / RAMAT GAN, Israel, — Defense technology startup Skapion has unveiled a new air defense system designed to intercept large-scale, coordinated drone swarms. The company recently raised $36 million in seed funding, co-led by UP.Partners and Khosla Ventures, with participation from Fusion VC, Stratos Ventures, TBD VC and q Fund. The funding will support development, system validation, recruitment and engagement with defense organizations in Israel, the United States and allied markets. Founded in late 2025 by CEO Ido Bar-On and CTO Gal Goren, Skapion is headquartered in Washington, D.C., with its research and development centre in Ramat Gan, Israel. Its system addresses the capacity and cost limitations of conventional counter-unmanned aerial systems (counter-UAS), which can struggle against large drone attacks that exhaust interceptor supplies and defense budgets. Such tactics have been documented in conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. Designed to Intercept More Than 100 Targets Skapion's many-to-many architecture is designed to allow multiple interceptors to engage multiple targets simultaneously. According to the company, its highly mobile, fully kinetic system can engage more than 100 targets at once, with a claimed interception rate above 97%. The company targets an interceptor cost of approximately $10,000 per round at scale. Its short-range interceptors are designed for engagements at roughly one to seven kilometres and use a proximity-based kill mechanism. The system uses vertical launch to provide 360-degree coverage and is intended for ground, airborne and maritime deployment. Its fully kinetic design is intended to counter autonomous drones and threats that do not depend on communications links. Skapion says the platform can operate independently in adverse weather and communications-constrained environments. AI-Based Command and Control The platform uses an AI-native command-and-control (C2) system that combines tracking data from its own sensors with external threat information. It evaluates and prioritises threats, allocates interceptors and manages engagements in real time. Depending on customer policy, the system can operate with full end-to-end autonomy or under the supervision of a human operator. Its open, sensor-agnostic architecture is designed to integrate with existing C2 networks and other counter-UAS systems. It can operate as a standalone battery protecting critical infrastructure and mobile forces or as a complementary layer in a national air-defense network. Development Team and Testing Plans Skapion's Founding Architect, Brigadier General (ret.) Pini Yungman, previously served as general manager of Rafael Advanced Defense Systems' Air and Missile Defense division and contributed to the Iron Dome and David's Sling programs. Bar-On previously led international defense and government business at XTEND and serves as a reserve lieutenant colonel in an Israeli special operations unit. The founding team also includes Gal Goren, Zafrir Yoeli and Yaron Karp. Skapion has grown to several dozen employees and is recruiting in aerospace, robotics, autonomy and related engineering fields. The company plans to conduct its first live-fire test within the next several weeks, involving up to 50 interceptors against small Class 2 and Class 3 drones. Potential customers are already participating in the evaluation process. Skapion aims to begin operational test evaluation in 2027, with operational capability targeted for the second half of that year. The system is intended to protect critical infrastructure, maritime assets, mobile forces, borders and high-value air-defense sites. However, independent test results and confirmed customer contracts have not been publicly released, and the company's performance and cost claims remain subject to validation.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-15 13:35:27
Space & Technology
ANTALYA, TÜRKÄ°YE — Chinese space technology company STAR.VISION unveiled four satellites at the 77th International Astronautical Congress (IAC 2026) in Antalya, Türkiye, on October 5. The satellites include an orbital computing pair designed to run a large artificial intelligence (AI) model and process satellite data directly in space. The computing pair, Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta, is designed to operate as a distributed system capable of running Alibaba Cloud's Qwen3.5 large language model with 397 billion parameters. Marco Polo will run the AI model using STAR.VISION's self-developed Lingshu inference payload and at least 4 terabytes of onboard storage. Its companion, Ibn Battuta, will provide computing capacity rated at 10 peta-operations per second (POPS), with planned power consumption of around 750 watts. It will process and combine optical, synthetic aperture radar (SAR) and multispectral imagery while supporting advanced AI workloads and lightweight model training in orbit. The satellites will communicate through an optical inter-satellite laser link with a planned speed of at least 100 gigabits per second. This connection will allow them to share data and computing tasks, with Marco Polo focusing on AI inference and decision-making while Ibn Battuta handles heavier processing workloads. The pair is targeted for a sun-synchronous orbit at approximately 520 kilometres altitude, with launch planned for the fourth quarter of 2026. Oman Twins to Support Earth Observation STAR.VISION also introduced the Oman Twins, two Earth-observation satellites developed with Oman Lens to support international scientific cooperation and autonomous space capabilities. The satellites will operate in a sun-synchronous orbit at approximately 530 kilometres altitude. They will carry panchromatic and multispectral imagers with a specified resolution of 0.5 metres for panchromatic imaging and 2 metres for multispectral imaging. The multispectral instruments will cover blue, green, red and near-infrared bands, with a swath width of at least 18 kilometres. The mission continues a partnership that previously produced Oman's first AI-equipped satellite. Part of a Planned 1,080-Satellite Constellation The Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta mission is a technology demonstration supporting STAR.VISION's proposed Space.IDC, also known as Space String, computing constellation. The company plans to deploy more than 1,080 satellites by 2035, including approximately 720 focused on AI inference and 360 providing general computing capacity. In August 2026, STAR.VISION also launched two hyperspectral satellites, each reportedly equipped with onboard processing capabilities rated at 400 tera-operations per second. By analysing data in orbit instead of transmitting all raw imagery to ground stations, the company aims to reduce communications bandwidth requirements and deliver useful information more quickly for applications such as Earth observation. However, the announced performance of Marco Polo and Ibn Battuta has not yet been demonstrated in orbit. Their planned fourth-quarter 2026 launch will allow STAR.VISION to test their computing capabilities, optical communications and autonomous data processing under actual space conditions.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-14 16:05:46
Space & Technology
ALAMEDA, California, — Longshot Space Technology, a California-based startup, has raised $20 million to develop a ground-based launch system designed to send satellites and other non-human cargo into orbit using bursts of compressed gas instead of conventional rockets for the initial acceleration. The company aims to reduce launch costs to as little as $50 per kilogram. Led by CEO Mike Grace and Chief Technology Officer Nathan “Nato” Saichek, the company received a $5 million investment from South Park Commons in June 2026, bringing its total funding to $20 million. Longshot is developing progressively larger prototypes to test the technology before attempting an orbital launch. How the Space Cannon Works Longshot’s multi-injection pneumatic cannon uses a long steel barrel fitted with high-pressure gas tanks. As a projectile moves through the barrel, successive bursts of compressed gas accelerate it to increasingly higher speeds. The system is designed to distribute acceleration along the barrel rather than relying on a single blast. After leaving the launcher, the payload would use an aeroshell to generate lift and travel through the atmosphere. An onboard propulsion system would then provide the additional velocity needed to reach orbit. The system is intended for non-human cargo because of the extreme acceleration involved. Prototype Tests and Development Plans Longshot has tested a gun approximately 70 feet long and 6 inches in diameter at a site near Barstow, California. The company has reported accelerating projectiles to speeds of up to Mach 4.2 after more than 100 firings. Its next steps include a 140-foot-long gun with a 30-inch diameter, followed by a 328-foot-long version that could eventually extend to approximately 3,000 feet. The latter system is designed to launch payloads weighing up to 220 pounds (about 100 kilograms) at speeds of up to Mach 8. The company's ultimate concept calls for a launcher approximately 10 kilometers (6 miles) long and nearly 10 feet in diameter, capable of accelerating payloads to about 5 kilometers per second, or more than 11,000 mph. Defense Contracts and Engineering Challenges Before attempting orbital launches, Longshot is targeting the defense sector with high-speed flight-testing services. In the summer of 2026, the company secured positions with the U.S. Air Force's Velocity Alliance consortium and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency's (DARPA) ERIS Marketplace. It has also received U.S. Air Force support through Small Business Innovation Research awards and other contracts. The technology draws on earlier multi-injection gun research, including the HARP program of the 1960s. However, scaling the system for orbital launches presents significant challenges, including managing extreme acceleration, aerodynamic heating, precision gas injection and finding a suitable site for a launcher several kilometers long. Longshot has not yet demonstrated a full orbital launch. Its proposed $50-per-kilogram launch cost remains a target, and the company is aiming for orbital capability in the early 2030s, subject to technical and site-selection challenges. The company is presenting its technology at TechCrunch Disrupt 2026 in San Francisco while continuing to develop larger prototypes and pursue hypersonic testing contracts.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-14 15:53:04
World
JERUSALEM, — Israel has begun deploying additional air defense systems across the country amid concerns over a possible military confrontation with Iran and a wider conflict involving Hezbollah. Video footage circulating on Wednesday reportedly showed David’s Sling air defense units being transported and deployed in northern Israel near the Lebanese border. Developed jointly by Israel’s Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and the U.S. company Raytheon, David’s Sling is designed to intercept rockets, cruise missiles, aircraft and certain ballistic missiles at ranges of approximately 40 to 300 kilometers. It operates between the shorter-range Iron Dome and the longer-range Arrow systems in Israel’s multilayered air defense network. The deployment comes ahead of Israel’s national election scheduled for October 27. Israeli military officials have reportedly warned that a major confrontation with Iran before the vote could force an election postponement and raise concerns about the political implications of military action. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has also warned that Israel’s adversaries could attempt to test the country before election day. IDF Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Eyal Zamir has reportedly raised the possibility of an election delay with U.S. officials. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that Washington will not attack Iran before the American midterm elections on November 3. Concerns about Iran’s expanding ballistic missile production capabilities have also contributed to Israel’s heightened military readiness. David’s Sling underwent complex tests earlier in 2026 that reportedly incorporated lessons from previous fighting. However, neither the IDF nor Israel’s Defense Ministry has publicly confirmed the number of batteries being moved or their final positions. Katz Warns Hezbollah Against Joining an Iranian Attack On Wednesday, Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz visited military positions in southern Lebanon alongside Northern Command chief Maj. Gen. Rafi Milo and other senior officers. Katz warned that if Hezbollah joined an Iranian attack on Israel, the group would face a severe military response and lose additional territory in southern Lebanon. He specifically identified the areas around Nabatieh and the Litani River as territories that could be seized and incorporated into Israel’s “permanent security zone.” Katz said the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were prepared to conduct a ground operation if necessary and would not withdraw from the security zones Israel currently holds. He also warned that military operations could involve moving the Shiite population northward from areas extending to the Awali and Zahrani rivers, along with further evacuations in Beirut’s southern Dahiyeh district, a Hezbollah stronghold. Katz said more than one million Shiites could be displaced in Lebanon. The warning reflects concerns that a conflict with Iran could expand into Lebanon if Hezbollah joins the fighting. Israel has maintained elevated readiness along its northern frontier because of Hezbollah’s presence and the wider regional security situation. The additional David’s Sling deployments are intended to strengthen defenses against potential missile attacks as the October 27 election approaches.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-14 15:45:25
Europe
PORTSMOUTH, UK, — The Royal Navy’s Type 45 destroyer HMS Dauntless (D33) has been fitted with two unidentified launcher units believed to be designed for interceptor drones. Images taken on October 10 during exercises off the Isle of Wight show the equipment, which could provide an additional layer of defence against hostile unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and drone swarms. Unidentified Launchers Spotted on HMS Dauntless The two black containers are positioned on the port and starboard sides of the destroyer’s main communications mast. Visual assessments suggest they measure approximately 2 metres by 1 metre and may house multi-cell launch systems for interceptor drones. No new dedicated sensor arrays are visible. The system could therefore use targeting information from the ship’s existing Sampson multifunction radar, S1850M long-range radar and electro-optical sensors. However, the launcher type, operating mechanism and integration arrangements have not been confirmed. A Royal Navy spokesperson declined to provide details, stating: “Due to operational sensitivities, we are not going to discuss this equipment fit.” Possible Link to Project TALON The equipment was reportedly installed in August 2026 and could be related to Project TALON, the Royal Navy’s initiative to develop counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS). On March 3, 2026, the Navy issued a Request for Information seeking a mature counter-drone system requiring little or no ship integration and suitable for rapid introduction. The stated requirements included: Defeating NATO Class 2 drones weighing 150–600 kg, including Shahed-type systems. Protecting an area of at least 100 square kilometres, ideally up to 2,500 square kilometres. Engaging at least 25 targets before reloading, with 100 as the preferred capacity. No formal contract award for Project TALON has been publicly confirmed, and the Royal Navy has not established a connection between the project and HMS Dauntless’s launchers. Related initiatives include Project METIS, focused on low-cost effectors housed in containers, and Project HORUS, which concerns air-search sensors for uncrewed vessels. Red Sea Operations Highlight Need for Additional Defences The suspected upgrade follows the Royal Navy’s experience in the Red Sea in 2024, when sister ship HMS Diamond faced drone and missile attacks from Houthi forces in Yemen. Type 45 destroyers carry 48 vertical launch cells for the Sea Viper air-defence system, which uses Aster missiles. Repeatedly firing expensive missiles against low-cost drones can rapidly deplete a ship’s ammunition reserves. Phalanx close-in weapon systems and 30 mm guns provide additional defensive options, but drone swarms can place pressure on a ship’s layered defences. Interceptor drones could offer a lower-cost alternative against suitable aerial targets, allowing ships to preserve their missiles for more demanding threats. Their effectiveness will depend on the system’s capabilities and integration, which remain undisclosed. Other Royal Navy Counter-Drone Programmes The Ministry of Defence plans to introduce DragonFire laser-directed energy weapons on at least two Type 45 destroyers from 2027. The Royal Navy is also pursuing the use of Martlet, or Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), carried by Wildcat helicopters to engage aerial threats. These efforts are part of a broader move towards layered protection against drones and missiles. The French Navy is pursuing similar measures involving electronic jammers, gun systems, first-person-view (FPV) drones and interceptor technologies. HMS Dauntless Completes Training with Ukrainian Minehunters The launchers were spotted as HMS Dauntless conducted a passing exercise off the Isle of Wight with five Ukrainian minehunters: UNS Henichesk, Mariupol, Melitopol, Chernihiv and Cherkasy. The Ukrainian vessels completed seven days of training as the final phase of Exercise Lion Protector, which began in August. The exercise aims to improve coordination among Joint Expeditionary Force nations in protecting Europe’s northern flank. Training included gunnery, manoeuvring as a task group and locating and destroying practice mines using Seafox remotely operated mine-disposal vehicles. Chernihiv and Cherkasy also conducted live Seafox firings. The vessels are based in Portsmouth as part of UK support to Ukraine. HMS Dauntless also undertook operational sea training in September, including Exercise Sharpshooter, which involved live firing against aerial and surface drone targets. Destroyer Prepares for High North Deployment HMS Dauntless is preparing to escort the UK aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales when the carrier resumes its Firecrest 2026 deployment to the High North. Meanwhile, HMS Dragon returned to Portsmouth in early October after a seven-month deployment covering the Mediterranean and Red Sea. The suspected interceptor launchers have not been reported on that ship, making HMS Dauntless the only Type 45 identified with the equipment so far. The Royal Navy has not confirmed whether the system has completed trials or been declared operational. Main Source : Navalnews
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-14 15:13:48
Europe
WARSAW, — Poland is considering reintroducing mandatory military service for men and women as the government seeks to expand its armed forces and strengthen national defence capabilities. Deputy Defence Minister Magdalena Sobkowiak-Czarnecka said on October 14 that the government is examining different models of compulsory military service. She supports conscription for both genders, potentially beginning with a transitional period focused on voluntary military service. However, no final decision or implementation timeline has been announced. Poland suspended compulsory military service in 2009 and has since maintained a professional military supported by volunteers. The government aims to increase its active force to 300,000 personnel and establish a reserve force of 200,000, with longer-term plans targeting approximately 500,000 personnel, including reservists, by 2039. Public opinion remains divided. An Opinia24 poll conducted for RMF FM between October 5 and 7, involving 1,001 adults, found that 48% supported restoring compulsory military service. Of those surveyed, 22% favoured conscription for both men and women, while 24% supported applying it only to men. Another 38% preferred retaining a fully professional army, and 16% were undecided. The proposal comes amid broader European efforts to strengthen military readiness following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Any reintroduction of compulsory service would require further government consideration, legislative work and preparations for training and infrastructure.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-14 14:26:25
World
KYIV, — SpaceX has reportedly introduced speed restrictions on Starlink terminals used by Ukrainian military forces under its Starshield service package, disrupting drone operations and forcing some units to cancel missions. The change was implemented overnight without advance notice, according to Ukrainian officials and military personnel. Speed Restrictions Disrupt Drone Operations Presidential adviser Serhii Beskrestnov, known as Flash, initially reported a speed limit of approximately 160 km/h (100 mph). However, subsequent reports from military personnel and volunteer Serhii Sternenko indicated that connectivity on some terminals dropped at speeds of 60–70 km/h (37–43 mph). Ukraine’s 7th Air Assault Corps, operating near Huliaipole, reported connection interruptions lasting 10–20 seconds during drone flights at 110–120 km/h. Although the drones continued flying, the interruptions made them harder to control. The corps warned that reducing speed to maintain connectivity could increase vulnerability to enemy fire. Ukraine’s Defence Ministry confirmed restrictions affecting Starshield terminals above approximately 160 km/h but said the precise thresholds were still being verified. One Ukrainian unmanned systems unit reportedly cancelled missions following the disruptions. Standard civilian Starlink terminals reportedly continue to function normally. Strike Drones and Interceptors Affected The restrictions affect medium-range strike drones, including the FP-2, Darts, Hornet and RAM-2, which rely on Starlink for beyond-line-of-sight control and video transmission. Ukrainian forces use these platforms to target Russian air-defence positions, logistics routes and infrastructure in border regions and Crimea. The reported limitations also affect Ukrainian interceptor drones used against Russian Shahed-type loitering munitions, including jet-powered variants. The loss of reliable connectivity could complicate both offensive strikes and low-altitude air-defence operations. Political Context and Ukrainian Response President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukrainian defence forces received no advance warning of the change, which reportedly disrupted and cancelled several missions. The restrictions coincide with pressure from Washington for Kyiv to halt strikes on Russian energy infrastructure following calls for an energy ceasefire. They also follow public criticism of Zelenskyy by SpaceX CEO Elon Musk. Beskrestnov linked the timing to the broader political situation, but SpaceX has not publicly explained the reported restrictions or confirmed their motivation. Ukrainian officials are investigating the cause and contacting U.S. officials, SpaceX and NATO partners to clarify the situation. Ukraine Seeks Alternative Communications If the restrictions remain in place, Ukraine may need to expand alternative communications systems for its drone fleet. Options include ground-based relay stations and mesh modems, similar to systems Russia has used for drone communications. Deploying these networks at scale would require significant time, equipment and financial investment. Ukrainian defence technology firm Stetman is also reportedly accelerating development of UASAT-NANO, a proposed domestic satellite communications system intended to reduce military dependence on SpaceX. Starlink has provided Ukrainian drone operators with beyond-line-of-sight control, video transmission and communications beyond conventional radio range since the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion. The duration and precise scope of the reported restrictions remain unclear, leaving Ukrainian forces working to maintain reliable connectivity for both strike drones and defensive interceptors.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-14 14:19:24
U.S
OWEGO, N.Y., — The U.S. Army has awarded Lockheed Martin a $117.1 million contract to provide post-production support for the Generation II radar frequency interferometer used on AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters. The indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract is valued at $117,118,040 and covers repairs, spare parts, engineering support, and other sustainment services for the AN/APR-48B sensor. Lockheed Martin was the sole bidder after the Army solicited one bid and received one response. Work will be managed at the company's Owego, New York, facility through October 12, 2031. The contract includes cost-no-fee, cost-plus-fixed-fee, and firm-fixed-price arrangements, with funding and work locations determined through individual orders. Army Contracting Command at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, is managing the award under contract number W58RGZ-27-D-A007. AN/APR-48B Detects Enemy Radar Threats The AN/APR-48B is a passive sensor that detects, identifies, and locates enemy radar emissions without transmitting its own signal. It ranks detected threats by priority, cues the Apache's fire-control radar, and warns crews about radar-guided anti-aircraft threats. The system also controls the helicopter's integrated survivability equipment, linking its self-protection and targeting functions. Support Bridges Transition to Generation III The new contract follows an earlier $60.5 million award for Generation II sensor production and related services, with work scheduled through October 31, 2026. As production winds down, the latest agreement will support existing systems while the Army prepares for their replacement. In October 2024, the Army awarded Lockheed Martin a separate contract to develop a Generation III radar frequency interferometer and radar warning receiver. The programme is intended to improve sensor performance while reducing size and weight. Its technology includes a multi-chip package known as MCP-2 and radio-frequency system-on-a-chip technology. Development draws on work involving Intel's Altera, Booz Allen Hamilton, and the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering through Trusted and Assured Microelectronics programmes. The Generation III system is intended to replace Generation II sensors across the Apache fleet. However, the Army and Lockheed Martin have not announced when the new system will enter production or reach operational units, making continued support for the AN/APR-48B necessary during the transition. Sensor Family Has Decades of Service Lockheed Martin's Owego facility has produced this sensor family for decades. The first-generation AN/APR-48A served on Apache Longbow helicopters during Operation Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. The Generation II AN/APR-48B also equips international Apache fleets. Through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales programme, Lockheed Martin has delivered the sensors to operators in the United Kingdom, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and South Korea. The $117.1 million contract will help maintain the existing sensors until the next-generation system is ready for operational use.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-14 14:10:21Search
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