India
British aerospace company Rolls-Royce and France’s Safran are competing to partner with India in developing an indigenous high-thrust engine for the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), India’s planned fifth-generation stealth fighter. The competition involves more than engine performance, with technology transfer, intellectual-property ownership, domestic manufacturing and future upgrade rights among the key considerations. Rolls-Royce announced a strategic intent to partner with Reliance Industries on August 14, 2026, to develop an indigenous combat engine and explore an Aerospace Gas Turbine Complex in India. Safran, meanwhile, is pursuing joint development with the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Gas Turbine Research Establishment (GTRE). Rolls-Royce Offer: Full Technology Transfer and Indian IP Ownership Rolls-Royce has proposed developing a 120-kN-class or higher-thrust fighter engine, with a reported future upgrade path to 145 kN of afterburning thrust. The higher figure represents a potential future development target, not the demonstrated performance of an existing AMCA engine. The proposal reportedly includes 100% technology transfer and Indian ownership of the intellectual property generated under the programme. This could allow India to retain greater control over engine design, manufacturing and future upgrades, subject to the final contractual terms. On August 14, Rolls-Royce and Reliance Industries announced their strategic intent to develop the engine together. They also proposed exploring an Aerospace Gas Turbine Complex covering design, development, manufacturing, testing, production and through-life support. This proposal goes beyond manufacturing an engine for a single fighter programme. If implemented with comprehensive design rights and access to critical technologies, it could help India establish a domestic aero-engine ecosystem for future military and other propulsion programmes. Rolls-Royce has also outlined a development timeline targeting an engine-core test by 2030, a first flight in 2034 and production in 2036, provided the contract is signed by the end of 2026. These are proposed milestones, not completed programme achievements. Safran Offer: Joint Development With GTRE Safran has proposed jointly developing a new fighter engine with GTRE, the DRDO laboratory responsible for gas-turbine engine research. Its approach places India’s government engine-development organisation directly in the programme. Safran has publicly offered extensive technology transfer, including critical hot-section technology and turbine architecture. The proposed collaboration is intended to help Indian engineers acquire the knowledge required to develop, manufacture and maintain an advanced fighter engine. In October 2026, Safran also proposed an Aravalli-style 50:50 co-development model for the AMCA Mk2 engine, according to Indian Masterminds. The approach would involve Indian and French teams sharing development responsibilities. The broader AMCA Mk2 programme is targeting a 120-kN-class engine. Safran’s offer must be evaluated against the same performance requirement as Rolls-Royce’s proposal. The final engine specification, upgrade potential, development schedule and detailed contractual rights will determine the actual comparison. Safran’s key advantage is its established fighter-engine experience and its proposed direct collaboration with GTRE. However, the value of its offer to India will depend on the precise rights India receives over design data, manufacturing processes, future upgrades and exports. Rolls-Royce vs Safran: Detailed Comparison Area Rolls-Royce Safran Indian partner Reliance Industries GTRE/DRDO Engine thrust target 120 kN or higher 120-kN-class programme target Future thrust potential Reported upgrade path to 145 kN Final upgrade potential requires confirmation Technology transfer Full transfer reported in the proposal Extensive transfer, including critical hot-section technologies Intellectual property Indian ownership reported for programme-generated IP Indian IP and contractual ownership provisions require assessment against the final agreement Industrial model Proposed Aerospace Gas Turbine Complex Proposed joint development through GTRE, including a reported 50:50 model Development timeline Core test in 2030, first flight in 2034 and production in 2036, subject to contract timing Final programme milestones not established publicly Main strategic advantage Broader proposed industrial ecosystem and reported Indian IP ownership Direct government-laboratory participation and established fighter-engine expertise The comparison should focus on the rights and capabilities India ultimately secures, rather than assuming that an announcement of technology transfer automatically gives India complete independence. Which Company Has More Advanced Fifth- or Sixth-Generation Engine Technology? Rolls-Royce: GCAP Next-Generation Propulsion Rolls-Royce is involved in developing the propulsion system for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a sixth-generation fighter programme involving the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan. Its partners include Italy’s Avio Aero and Japan’s IHI Corporation. In July 2026, the programme reported completing more than 100 subscale component tests and making progress towards ground testing an engine demonstrator. This demonstrates active work on future combat-aircraft propulsion, but it does not mean a completed operational sixth-generation engine is available for AMCA. Rolls-Royce also has experience with the EJ200 engine used by the Eurofighter Typhoon and the LiftSystem used by the F-35B. The LiftSystem is a specialised short-take-off and vertical-landing system, not the F-35’s main engine. Safran: Operational M88 and Future Engine Development Safran develops the M88 engine used by France’s Rafale fighter. Its M88 T-REX development programme targets approximately 88.2 kN of afterburning thrust, or nine tonnes, around 20% more than the current M88 according to Safran. The planned improvements include changes to the compressor, turbine materials, cooling circuits and exhaust nozzle. This programme demonstrates ongoing fighter-engine development, but the M88 is not a 120-kN-class AMCA engine or a completed sixth-generation powerplant. Assessment: Rolls-Royce has a particularly relevant role in a publicly documented sixth-generation engine demonstrator through GCAP. Safran brings an operational modern fighter engine and experience in developing higher-thrust configurations. Neither company has demonstrated a completed operational sixth-generation engine that can simply be transferred to India for AMCA. Which Company Offers India Greater Engine Independence? Rolls-Royce’s reported offer appears broader in its proposed industrial scope because it combines the engine programme with Reliance Industries, an Aerospace Gas Turbine Complex and Indian ownership of programme-generated IP. Safran’s offer could also provide significant long-term benefits through joint development with GTRE, direct Indian engineering participation and extensive technology transfer. Its proposed 50:50 development model could help embed knowledge within India’s government engine-development establishment. The final decision should therefore consider six areas: Design ownership: Whether Indian engineers can independently access and modify the engine’s complete design. Critical technologies: Whether India gains practical knowledge of turbine blades, high-temperature materials, cooling systems and combustion. Manufacturing: Whether critical components can be produced domestically rather than merely assembled in India. Future upgrades: Whether India can independently increase thrust and improve engine performance. Export rights: Whether engines and aircraft using them can be exported under clearly defined permissions. Long-term support: Whether India can independently test, certify, maintain and repair the engine. Full technology transfer is meaningful only if the agreement provides the design information, manufacturing knowledge and legal rights needed to use the technology independently. What This Means for India Rolls-Royce offers a broader publicly reported industrial vision, combining a proposed partnership with Reliance Industries, an aerospace gas-turbine complex, Indian IP ownership and a reported future path towards 145 kN of thrust. Safran remains a strong alternative because of its established fighter-engine experience, its proposed partnership with GTRE and its commitment to transferring critical technologies. Its final development and ownership arrangements will be central to determining how much long-term independence India can achieve. The reported 145-kN capability in the Rolls-Royce proposal remains a future development target, not an existing operational engine capability. Similarly, the final performance and upgrade potential of the Safran-GTRE engine must be established through the programme’s specifications and development work. Ultimately, India’s objective is not simply to manufacture an engine domestically. It is to establish the capability to design, build, maintain and upgrade fighter engines without having to depend on a foreign company for every major change. The company that delivers the strongest combination of technical knowledge, enforceable IP rights, domestic manufacturing and future development freedom could provide India with the more valuable long-term partnership.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-17 15:08:56
World
BRUSSELS, — Belgium will transfer ten F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine by the end of 2026, Prime Minister Bart De Wever announced after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on the sidelines of the European Union summit in Brussels on October 15. The announcement increases Belgium’s previously stated plan to deliver seven aircraft by year-end. De Wever explained that delays in the arrival of American-made F-35 fighter jets had postponed the transfers, as Belgium needs to maintain its fleet to meet NATO commitments. Belgian F-35As began arriving at Florennes Air Base in late 2025. F-16s to Counter Russian Drones Zelensky stressed Ukraine’s urgent need for additional fighter jets, particularly to counter Russian jet-powered drones. De Wever said the F-16’s 20-millimeter cannon was one of the widely available weapons suitable for defending against these threats. The two leaders also discussed accelerating deliveries and supplying 20-millimeter ammunition manufactured by Belgian defence company FN Herstal. “We can help him. We have that capability. In particular, we can help with 20-millimeter ammunition,” De Wever said. Ukraine also plans to use the aircraft to protect energy infrastructure ahead of winter, secure bridges and provide air cover for grain exports travelling through the Black Sea corridor. Earlier Plans and Delivery Delays In June 2026, Belgian Defence Minister Theo Francken said seven F-16s would be transferred by the end of the year, with three intended for combat missions and four for spare parts. De Wever has not clarified how the newly announced ten aircraft will be divided between operational use and spare parts. Belgium pledged 30 F-16s to Ukraine in May 2024, initially targeting delivery by 2028. The broader commitment was subsequently expanded to 53 aircraft, scheduled for transfer by the end of 2029. The original 2024 delivery timeline was delayed because Belgium needed F-35s to replace its existing F-16 fleet. In early October 2026, reports indicated that the transfer of an initial three Belgian F-16s would proceed after the signing of a technology-transfer agreement with France. The aircraft use French electronic warfare systems, requiring French approval for their transfer to Ukraine. Zelensky has confirmed that Ukraine expects additional Belgian F-16s before the end of 2026 and thanked Belgium for its support. Denmark, the Netherlands and Norway have also pledged F-16s to Ukraine, and deliveries from those countries are already under way.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-17 14:24:14
U.S
WASHINGTON, — The U.S. Navy has launched a market research effort to assess domestic shipyard capacity for its next-generation nuclear-powered attack submarine, designated SSN(X). The initiative aims to identify facilities, equipment, workforce and infrastructure capable of supporting the submarine's construction. The Sources Sought Notice (N00135-27-SSNX) was issued under Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) by the Director of Submarine Programs (DSP), the Director of Design and Construction (D, D&C), and the SSN(X) New Attack Submarine Program Office (PMS 351). Published on October 9, 2026, the notice was intended for market research and planning, not a contract award or formal request for proposals. Responses were due October 15 through the Department of Defense Secure Access File Exchange (DoD SAFE). Shipyard Requirements The Navy is seeking information on shipyards' ability to perform complete pressure hull fabrication, modular outfitting, precision systems integration, nuclear reactor compartment installation, post-delivery testing and final certification. The assessment also covers certified graving or floating drydocks, heavy-module fabrication facilities, specialized tooling, gantry cranes and heavy-lift equipment, as well as the availability of qualified shipbuilding design personnel. The applicable industry classification is NAICS 336611, Ship Building and Repairing. The assessment focuses on the existing U.S. nuclear-submarine industrial base, which includes General Dynamics Electric Boat, with facilities in Groton, Connecticut, and Quonset Point, Rhode Island, and Huntington Ingalls Industries' Newport News Shipbuilding in Virginia. Both organizations build Virginia-class attack submarines and support the wider nuclear-submarine construction effort. Electric Boat is the Virginia-class program's prime contractor. The notice does not select a shipyard for SSN(X). SSN(X) Program and Planned Capabilities The SSN(X) is intended to succeed the Virginia and Seawolf classes. Planned improvements include greater speed, increased horizontal payload capacity, vertical launch systems for cruise missiles, improved acoustic and other signatures, higher operational availability, and better coordination with unmanned underwater vehicles and off-board sensors. Design work remains ongoing. Production has been projected to begin around 2034, with entry into service expected in the early to mid-2040s. Industrial Capacity, Timeline and Cost The Navy's submarine industrial base is already supporting Virginia-class attack submarine production and the higher-priority Columbia-class ballistic-missile submarine program. The Navy aims to increase production to at least two Virginia-class submarines and one Columbia-class submarine annually. The SSN(X) assessment will help determine what additional infrastructure, assembly space, equipment and workforce capacity may be needed without disrupting existing construction programs. The Navy's FY2025 budget submission shifted procurement of the first SSN(X) from fiscal year 2035 to FY2040 because of competing funding priorities and industrial-base constraints. The FY2027 budget request for the program is approximately $315 million, around $121 million below earlier expectations. FY2026 research and development funding requests included support for class development and next-generation nuclear propulsion work. Estimated unit costs are between $6.7 billion and $8.0 billion, potentially making SSN(X) significantly more expensive than the Virginia class. Final costs and timelines remain subject to design development, funding and industrial capacity. The Sources Sought Notice is an early planning step to assess whether U.S. shipyards can accommodate the next-generation submarine alongside ongoing construction programs. It does not constitute a construction contract or confirm the final shipyard arrangement.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-17 13:55:47
U.S
LOS ANGELES, — The U.S. Army has selected defense startup Furientis as one of four companies for an interceptor shoot-off scheduled for the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2027. The competition aims to identify a second missile for the Army’s Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) air defense system. Furientis co-founder and CEO Brody Franzen announced the selection, describing it as a downselect ahead of a fly-off expected before the fiscal year ends on September 30, 2027. The other three companies selected for this parallel competition have not been disclosed. IFPC Inc 2 Seeks a Second Interceptor IFPC Inc 2 is designed to protect military bases and troops against cruise missiles, drones, rockets and artillery. Its truck-mounted Enduring Shield launcher, manufactured by Leidos subsidiary Dynetics, currently fires RTX’s ground-launched AIM-9X Sidewinder missile. The Army wants a second interceptor capable of defeating fast, low-flying cruise missiles while supporting production in larger quantities. The formal competition is progressing separately, with Lockheed Martin and a Boeing-Anduril team entering the demonstration phase in September 2026. Rafael’s U.S. subsidiary was not selected to advance. The Army is seeking a missile with range and lethality comparable to the AIM-120D Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM), while retaining the dimensions of the AIM-9X to preserve the Enduring Shield launcher’s 18-missile capacity. Boeing-Anduril has proposed a new design featuring an open architecture and Anduril-developed solid rocket motors. Army Opens a Parallel Competition At the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) conference, Lt. Gen. Frank Lozano, the Army’s portfolio acquisition executive for fires, announced a parallel route for companies that missed the initial selection but continued developing their interceptor designs. These companies are invited to bring their missiles to a test range in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2027. Furientis was selected through this initiative, which allows the Army to evaluate additional designs alongside the primary competition. Furientis Focuses on Mass Production Founded in 2025 by Brody Franzen and Aris Simsarian, both former engineers at Virgin Orbit and Castelion, Furientis develops interceptors designed for low-cost, large-scale production. The company builds its own seekers, rocket motors and airframes. Its multimodal seekers use commercial off-the-shelf electronics, while its proprietary solid rocket motor is designed to be poured. Furientis reports a final assembly time of approximately 30 minutes per interceptor and conducts prototype flight tests roughly every two weeks. It has stated a production target of about 1,000 interceptors per factory annually, with unit costs intended to be well below those of traditional systems. Funding and Government Contract Furientis emerged from stealth in May 2026 with a $5 million pre-seed funding round. On October 6, it announced a $25 million seed round led by Benchmark, with general partner Chetan Puttagunta joining its board. The company also announced its first funded government contract, a prototyping agreement with the U.S. Department of War to develop a 100-mile-range interceptor for homeland defense. The contract value was not disclosed. Recent Flight Tests and Launcher Development Furientis recently conducted its first horizontal flight test on a government range for the Army’s low-cost interceptor effort. At AUSA, the company also presented a containerized launcher developed with Rheinmetall for the Army’s Common Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher program. A live interceptor firing involving a containerized launch module mounted on a Rheinmetall HX-based platform was conducted earlier in fall 2026. Preparing for the 2027 Shoot-Off Franzen credited the Army’s Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Fires and its defensive fires team, led by Brig. Gen. Guy Yelverton, with supporting nontraditional defense companies and accelerating development. Furientis is expanding its workforce in mechanical engineering, optics, flight software, and guidance, navigation and control (GNC) as it prepares for the 2027 competition. The parallel shoot-off will give the Army additional interceptor designs to evaluate alongside the Lockheed Martin and Boeing-Anduril effort. The competition is intended to help the service assess further options for cruise missile defense while addressing its requirements for production capacity and interceptor performance.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-17 13:38:44
Europe
CHERBOURG, FRANCE, — Naval Group has transferred Rubis (S639), the fifth Suffren-class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) under France’s Barracuda programme, to a DME floating platform-type shiplift at its Cherbourg facility. The milestone begins the submarine’s final completion phase ahead of dockside checks and sea trials. French Minister for the Armed Forces and Veterans Catherine Vautrin attended the ceremony. The Barracuda programme, led by France’s defence procurement agency (DGA) in partnership with the French Atomic Energy and Alternative Energies Commission (CEA), aims to replace the six ageing Rubis-class submarines that entered service from the 1980s. Four Suffren-class submarines have been delivered between November 2020 and June 2026, with all six scheduled for delivery by 2030. Naval Group Chairman and CEO Pierre Éric Pommellet said the transfer came 17 months after the corresponding milestone for De Grasse. He highlighted cooperation between Naval Group, the DGA, industrial partners and the submarine’s crew in delivering the vessels required by the French Navy. Suffren-Class Specifications and Weapons The Suffren class measures approximately 99.5 metres in length, with a surface displacement of 4,765 tonnes and a submerged displacement of 5,300 tonnes. It uses a 150-megawatt K15 pressurised-water nuclear reactor, combined with turbines, turbo-alternators and electric motors driving a pump-jet propulsor. The submarine can reach speeds of up to 25 knots and has a reported test depth exceeding 350 metres. Its X-shaped rudders and enclosed pump-jet form part of its underwater design. The submarine has four 533 mm torpedo tubes and can carry a payload of 20 weapons, including F21 Artemis heavyweight torpedoes, Exocet SM39 Mod2 anti-ship missiles, FG29 multi-influence mines and MdCN naval cruise missiles for long-range precision land attacks. Designed for special operations, the submarine normally carries a crew of 60 and can accommodate up to 15 Commandos Marine. A removable dry deck shelter can be installed behind the sail to deploy swimmer delivery vehicles. Industrial Cooperation and Historical Name Naval Group is responsible for the submarines’ design, construction, logistical support and maintenance at the Toulon naval base. TechnicAtome works with the company on the development and production of the main nuclear boiler components. Around 3,000 people, including approximately 800 Naval Group subcontractor personnel, are involved in the programme, which draws on hundreds of companies across France’s defence industrial and technological base. The submarine is named after the original Rubis, a Saphir-class minelaying submarine that joined General Charles de Gaulle’s Free French Naval Forces after France’s defeat in 1940. Operating from Dundee, Scotland, alongside the Royal Navy, it completed 28 operational patrols and laid nearly 700 mines, sinking or damaging more than 20 Axis vessels. On October 14, 1941, de Gaulle made the submarine a Companion of the Order of Liberation. Delivery Timeline and Future Plans According to Naval News, Rubis is expected to begin alpha trials by summer 2027, with delivery to the French Navy planned for the end of 2027. The fourth submarine, De Grasse, was delivered in June 2026 after rolling out in May 2025, completing dockside trials, starting its reactor in December 2025 and conducting a four-month sea-trial campaign beginning in February 2026. The first three submarines—Suffren, Duguay-Trouin and Tourville—are already in active service. The final boat, Casabianca (S640), is progressing through production at Cherbourg, where its stern section is visible on the production line. Meanwhile, the DGA and Naval Group are developing the Evol SNA modernisation roadmap to keep the six Suffren-class submarines updated throughout their planned 30-year service lives. Preliminary studies have also begun on France’s proposed third-generation nuclear attack submarine, known as SNA3G, although it has not yet entered a formal procurement programme. The transfer of Rubis marks another step towards completing the Barracuda programme and renewing the French Navy’s nuclear attack submarine fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-17 13:32:19
U.S
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif., — The U.S. Air Force has successfully demonstrated in-flight tactical control of an Anduril YFQ-44A Fury Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) by an F-22 Raptor pilot. Conducted during the week of October 5, the test marks progress in integrating autonomous aircraft with crewed fighters. F-22 Pilot Directs Fury Drone in Flight Both aircraft took off from Edwards Air Force Base, California, and joined up in flight. The F-22 pilot then transmitted an updated mission plan to the YFQ-44A through a tactical data link. Rather than remotely controlling the drone, the pilot acted as an airborne “quarterback,” issuing high-level tactical commands. The YFQ-44A’s onboard autonomous software interpreted the instructions and independently performed dynamic flight maneuvers and simulated combat tasks. This approach allows pilots to focus on mission objectives while autonomous aircraft manage the flight actions needed to carry out assigned tasks. Air Force Leadership Highlights Teaming Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink said the achievement demonstrates the value of military-industry cooperation in delivering new capabilities. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach highlighted the operational advantages of crewed-uncrewed teaming, stating, “We must test often, learn fast and give commanders what they need, when they need it.” The demonstration involved personnel from the 412th Test Wing, 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron, 309th Software Engineering Group, Experimental Operations Unit, F-22 System Program Office, and CCA Software Autonomy and Teaming Branch. YFQ-44A Part of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft Program The YFQ-44A Fury is one of two designs selected for the first increment of the Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft program. The other is the General Atomics YFQ-42A. The program aims to develop affordable, adaptable autonomous and semi-autonomous aircraft that operate alongside crewed fighters. These aircraft are intended to extend operational reach, improve situational awareness and support the survivability of U.S. airpower in contested environments. The F-22 is serving as an initial platform for testing autonomous wingmen. Further Testing Planned Before Operational Deployment The Air Force will use data from the demonstration to guide software development, further testing and future operating concepts. However, the test does not mean the YFQ-44A is ready for operational deployment. Further evaluation will be required, including software refinement and testing a pilot’s ability to manage multiple drones. The Air Force must also establish production capacity to meet its fleet targets. The service aims to field 500 combat-ready, semi-autonomous Increment 1 CCAs by 2032, as part of a planned fleet of approximately 1,000 or more aircraft. The next planned milestone is Exercise Emerald Flag in December 2026, where the YFQ-44A Fury and General Atomics YFQ-42A are scheduled to participate in a large-force exercise integrating autonomous aircraft.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-17 13:24:30
World
SANAA, Yemen, — Yemen’s Houthi movement has released infrared footage claiming to show a missile detonating near a Royal Saudi Air Force Eurofighter Typhoon over Saada Governorate in northern Yemen on the night of October 14. Houthi military spokesman Brigadier General Yahya Saree said the aircraft had taken off from Taif Air Base in western Saudi Arabia before being targeted over Saada, near the Saudi border. He claimed the engagement put the fighter at risk of crashing. The footage circulated by Houthi-affiliated media shows an explosion near an aircraft whose silhouette appears consistent with a Typhoon, followed by a plume around its starboard wing. The video also appears to show the pilot manoeuvring and releasing flares. A separate video reportedly shows a missile launch from the ground followed by an aerial explosion. Houthi statements have described the weapon as both an air-to-air missile and a surface-to-air missile. Its type remains unconfirmed, although open-source reporting has mentioned possible Iranian-supplied Barq-1 or Barq-2 missiles and an older Soviet-origin design. The footage does not establish whether the missile directly struck the aircraft or detonated nearby. Saudi authorities have not confirmed the interception. The pilot’s status, aircraft serial number, extent of damage, possible crash site and final outcome remain independently unverified. Previous Aircraft Incidents and Regional Escalation The claim follows a September 2026 Houthi announcement that its forces had shot down a Saudi F-15SA over Marib Governorate. The group later displayed wreckage that independent analysts reportedly identified as consistent with that aircraft type. In a separate incident in mid-September, an Italian Air Force Eurofighter was damaged on the ground at King Fahd Air Base near Taif during a Houthi attack. The Italian defence ministry confirmed that incident, which involved a parked aircraft rather than one engaged in flight. The latest claim comes amid renewed fighting between the Houthis and Saudi-backed forces. Reported developments include a ballistic missile targeting King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, damage to the roof of Saudi Aramco’s headquarters in Dhahran, and a Houthi missile attack on the Al-Maashiq Presidential Palace in Aden that reportedly killed five people and injured 16. The supplied reports also describe attacks on five Saudi airports between October 5 and October 11, with 20 fatalities and hundreds of injuries, although these figures and the attribution of the attacks require independent verification. Saudi-backed forces have responded with ground assaults alongside Royal Saudi Air Force airstrikes against Houthi positions. As of October 16, 2026, the reported Typhoon engagement remains unconfirmed by Saudi authorities or independent sources. The released footage alone does not establish whether the aircraft sustained significant damage or was lost.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 15:57:34
Europe
ALBACETE, Spain — German defence contractor Rheinmetall is investing approximately €20 million to expand ammunition and mortar production at its Albacete facility in Spain. The project, led by subsidiary Rheinmetall Expal Munitions, will introduce medium-calibre ammunition production and increase mortar manufacturing capacity, raising the site's workforce from around 210 to approximately 300 employees. The investment is part of Rheinmetall's Firepower programme, which aims to increase ammunition production across Europe to meet demand from NATO members and other allied forces. Medium-Calibre Ammunition Production Starting in October 2026, the Albacete facility is scheduled to produce approximately three million medium-calibre ammunition components annually, including 1.2 million projectiles and 1.8 million cartridge cases in calibres ranging from 20 mm to 35 mm. The components are intended for infantry fighting vehicles and anti-aircraft gun systems. Production will include armour-piercing projectiles, kinetic-energy time-fuze ammunition and AHEAD ammunition used in air defence and counter-drone operations. The components will be shipped to other Rheinmetall facilities, including its Burgos plant in Spain, for processing into finished ammunition. To support production, Rheinmetall has modernised and extended an existing 5,700-square-metre building, installing new machinery, technical infrastructure and automation technology. Expanded Mortar Manufacturing Rheinmetall has also constructed a separate 5,200-square-metre building in less than a year to expand mortar production. The facility will support annual production of 40 Dual-Eimos 81 mm mortar systems and more than 650 standard mortars in 60 mm, 81 mm and 120 mm calibres. The site already specialises in EIMOS 81 mm systems and is preparing for series production of the EIMOS 120. The new building is also structurally designed to accommodate aircraft maintenance operations. Officials Highlight Strategic Importance The expansion ceremony was attended by Spanish Secretary of State for Defence Amparo Valcarce, German Ambassador to Spain Heiko Thoms, Albacete Mayor Manuel Serrano López and Rheinmetall Chief Executive Armin Papperger. Valcarce said a credible deterrent requires well-prepared and properly equipped armed forces capable of sustaining operations, highlighting the importance of a strong defence industry. Papperger described Albacete as a key centre for ammunition components and weapon systems manufacturing. He said the investment would introduce a new medium-calibre capability while strengthening the site's existing mortar production expertise, increasing its importance for Rheinmetall, Spain and Europe. European Expansion and 2030 Targets Rheinmetall is expanding its European production network through new ammunition plants in Unterlüß, Germany, and Baisogala, Lithuania, alongside upgrades at existing facilities such as Aschau am Inn in Germany. By 2030 at the latest, the company aims to achieve annual production capacity of four million medium-calibre rounds, 1.5 million rounds of 155 mm artillery ammunition and 240,000 rounds of 120 mm anti-tank ammunition. The Albacete expansion is expected to create additional opportunities for regional suppliers. The facility currently works directly with 23 local companies and another 87 regional firms. Across Spain, Rheinmetall reports approximately 3,400 direct employees at the Madrid headquarters of Rheinmetall Expal Munitions and its six factories. Its Spanish operations are supported by around 1,300 suppliers receiving annual orders worth approximately €500 million. The investment strengthens Albacete's established role in mortar systems and ammunition components while adding medium-calibre production capacity to Rheinmetall's European manufacturing network.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 15:44:42
U.S
HUNTSVILLE, Ala., — The U.S. military is advancing plans to build a permanent $4 billion headquarters for U.S. Space Command at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, Alabama, with operational readiness targeted for December 2031. The Command and Control Facility (C2F) will occupy a 64-acre site and accommodate approximately 1,800 personnel. The complex is planned to cover around 700,000 to 800,000 square feet, housing command-and-control infrastructure, secure communications networks, a dedicated data center and facilities for classified operations. The facility will incorporate electromagnetic pulse (EMP) protection, including high-altitude EMP hardening, radio-frequency shielding, redundant power and utility systems, and resilient communications infrastructure. It will also include Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs), Special Access Program spaces, and integrated command, control, communications, computers and intelligence systems. Contractor Selection and Construction Timeline The Air Force Civil Engineer Center (AFCEC), working with Army Contracting Command on behalf of U.S. Space Command, is preparing to select a U.S.-based design-build contractor. The contract will cover design, construction, equipment installation, commissioning, accreditation and fixtures, furniture and equipment. The estimated $4 billion contract has not yet been awarded. Selection criteria include experience with large-scale projects, bonding capacity, Top Secret facility security clearance and compliance with cybersecurity standards. Responses to the formal challenge statement are listed as due December 15, 2026, subject to confirmation against the latest procurement notice. The project uses Other Transaction Authority (OTA) to accelerate delivery and aims to reduce traditional military construction timelines by roughly half. Groundbreaking is targeted for around September 2027, mission-ready occupancy for 2031 and full personnel relocation for approximately 2032. Parsons Corporation received an $85 million agreement in September 2026 to serve as the owner's advisor, providing program and construction management support through planning, design, construction and the transition to operations. Relocation from Colorado Springs The decision to establish the permanent headquarters at Redstone Arsenal was finalized in September 2025 following years of site evaluations and political debate. The relocation will move the headquarters from Colorado Springs, Colorado, to Huntsville. More than 140 staff members were working at interim facilities at Redstone Arsenal by early September 2026. The workforce is expected to reach approximately 200 by year-end 2026 and around 900 personnel, or half the headquarters workforce, by the end of 2028. The joint operations center will remain in Colorado until the new facility is completed. An Air Force environmental review found no significant impacts associated with developing the proposed site. Local officials and the command's transition office have begun preparations for the incoming workforce. Redstone Arsenal already hosts the Missile Defense Agency, NASA's Marshall Space Flight Center and other Army and intelligence organizations. Funding for the relocation has supported interim secure digital infrastructure, planning and design, with additional budget requests supporting the wider move. The $4 billion estimate covers design, construction, equipment and associated requirements. The permanent headquarters will consolidate operations currently spread across multiple buildings and support orbital monitoring, satellite protection and coordination of responses to emerging space threats. The project reflects the U.S. Department of Defense's growing focus on space as a military domain.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 15:35:57
Space & Technology
BURNS FLAT, Okla., — Oklahoma has begun construction of a $7.5 million facility at Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport to support operations of Dawn Aerospace’s reusable, rocket-powered Aurora spaceplane. State officials and company representatives broke ground on the project on October 13, 2026, with completion expected in fall 2027 and flight operations targeted to begin in 2027. Facility Details Funded through an appropriation from the Oklahoma Legislature, the 15,000-square-foot complex will include: 5,000-square-foot mission control and operations building for flight management and operational support. 10,000-square-foot aircraft hangar for aircraft preparation and maintenance. Dedicated workspaces for avionics, payload integration and flight simulation, along with conference rooms and other operational facilities. The infrastructure is designed to support pre-flight and post-flight procedures and enable regular spaceplane operations. Aurora Spaceplane Capabilities Unlike conventional rockets that require dedicated launch infrastructure, the Aurora is designed to take off and land on conventional runways. Dawn Aerospace is developing the vehicle for suborbital research, technology testing and high-altitude applications. The spaceplane is designed to reach speeds of up to Mach 3.7 and altitudes of approximately 100 kilometers (62 miles), providing around 120–127 seconds of microgravity per flight. The company is targeting a turnaround time of approximately four hours between flights. Dawn Aerospace has completed 64 Aurora test flights. During testing in 2024, the vehicle broke the sound barrier and recorded a climb time of 118.6 seconds to reach 20 kilometers (approximately 66,000 feet) from a runway. Manufacturing and earlier flight testing have been based in Christchurch, New Zealand. $17 Million Agreement Supports the Programme The project builds on an agreement announced in June 2025 between Dawn Aerospace and the Oklahoma Space Industry Development Authority (OSIDA), valued at approximately $17 million. The agreement covers the supply of an Aurora spaceplane, ground-support equipment, training, licensing support and related services. Dawn Aerospace will provide the aircraft, a ground control station and an operations team. Astral Materials Books Up to 100 Flights California-based Astral Materials has booked up to 100 Aurora flights beginning in 2028 from Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport. The company plans to use the flights to research advanced materials and semiconductor manufacturing hardware. The spaceplane's rapid turnaround is expected to allow researchers to conduct repeated experiments, test equipment and refine designs over shorter periods. Oklahoma's Commercial Spaceflight Plans Located in Burns Flat in western Oklahoma, Infinity One Oklahoma Spaceport occupies a former Air Force base with a long concrete runway and an FAA-approved flight corridor for space operations. Grayson Ardies, CEO of OSIDA and executive director of the Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics, described the groundbreaking as a practical step towards developing commercial spaceflight using runway-based operations rather than traditional vertical rocket launches. The new facility is intended to support more frequent experimental flights while strengthening Oklahoma's aerospace industry by combining existing aviation infrastructure with dedicated facilities for commercial spaceflight and research.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 15:35:01
World
Iran, — Iran is expanding underground military infrastructure that could support ballistic missile production despite extensive damage to its surface facilities from US and Israeli strikes, according to a new analysis by the US-based Foreign Policy Research Institute (FPRI). The study, based on Planet Labs satellite imagery, examined three major Iranian missile-related complexes at Parchin, Khojir and Shahrud. The findings show that solid-propellant production facilities at all three sites remain inoperable, with debris covering damaged buildings and limited progress in restoring specialized equipment following Operation Epic Fury. Underground Activity at Parchin At the Shahid Boroujerdi underground tunnel complex near Parchin, Iran has filled craters caused by penetrator munitions and rebuilt an auxiliary utility building that appears to provide power and support services. Satellite images from around mid-September also show containers measuring approximately 5 to 13 meters long outside tunnel entrances. Analysts suggest they could be used to store or transport missile-related equipment or weapons. Longer containers may accommodate ballistic missiles, while shorter ones could hold cruise missiles or surface-to-air missiles, although their contents have not been confirmed. The facility was previously linked to Iran's nuclear programme before the early 2000s. FPRI researchers assess that it may now support missile manufacturing or assembly. Khojir Facilities Remain Damaged At Khojir, major sections of the defence complex remain heavily damaged. Both solid-propellant production areas are covered in debris and remain non-operational. Liquid-propellant-related facilities, including Shahid Cheraghi, Shahid Rastegar and Shahid Movahed, show little visible recovery. Several entrances to the Shahid Movahed underground facility, believed to be associated with final assembly of liquid-propellant missiles, appear blocked or sealed. The limited visible activity has led researchers to question whether missile assembly is currently taking place there. New Tunnel Construction at Shahrud At Shahrud, debris clearance is more advanced than at the other two sites, but the solid-propellant plant remains far from operational. Several buildings require reconstruction, and specialized equipment must be reinstalled. Construction of a new tunnel complex in a nearby mountain range is continuing. Work on two entrances began in autumn 2024, while a third entrance appears to have been started following Operation Epic Fury. Excavated material is visible near the tunnel openings. The expanded network could provide underground space for missile production or assembly, although its precise function has not been confirmed. Missile Production Could Resume Within a Year FPRI researchers say the timeline for restoring Iran's missile production remains uncertain. A single facility could potentially return to full operation within approximately one year if Tehran concentrates resources and obtains the necessary specialized equipment, including planetary mixers used to manufacture solid rocket propellant. The timeline will depend on Iran's priorities and access to equipment produced domestically or obtained abroad. The findings follow earlier intelligence assessments indicating that Iran had resumed limited ballistic missile and launcher production using stockpiled components, repaired production lines and undamaged underground facilities. The latest analysis suggests that Iran's recovery remains uneven: major surface production facilities are still heavily damaged, while selected underground locations show activity and tunnel construction continues. The study relies on publicly available satellite imagery and does not cover every Iranian missile-related site, meaning other facilities may also contribute to its missile programme.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 15:17:06
U.S
MARIETTA, Georgia, — The U.S. Navy has received its first C-130J-30 Super Hercules aircraft from Lockheed Martin for conversion into the E-130J Phoenix II, the service’s next-generation aircraft for the Take Charge and Move Out (TACAMO) nuclear communications mission. The aircraft was handed over at Lockheed Martin’s production facility in Marietta, Georgia. It is the first of three C-130J-30 aircraft acquired by the Navy in September 2024 and will undergo modifications to replace the aging E-6B Mercury fleet. E-130J to Maintain Nuclear Communications The TACAMO mission provides secure, survivable communications between the U.S. president, the secretary of defense, U.S. Strategic Command and the Navy’s deployed ballistic missile submarines. The capability allows national leadership to transmit instructions to submarines, including during crises when ground-based communications networks are disrupted. The Navy has relied on the Boeing 707-based E-6B Mercury for more than three decades. The E-130J is intended to take over the mission with updated avionics, communications systems and survivability features. The C-130J-30 extended-fuselage aircraft was selected for its range, payload capacity and fuel efficiency. Capt. Roger Davis, program manager for the Navy’s Airborne Strategic Command, Control, and Communications program office (PMA-271), said the delivery establishes the foundation for the future strategic deterrence posture and reflects cooperation between the Navy, Lockheed Martin and industry partners. Northrop Grumman to Integrate Mission Systems Northrop Grumman is the prime contractor and mission systems integrator under a contract worth approximately $3.46 billion awarded in December 2024. The company will modify the government-furnished C-130J-30 airframes and install and test the specialized equipment. The industry team also includes Collins Aerospace, Raytheon, Crescent Systems and Long Wave. Collins Aerospace will supply the Very Low Frequency (VLF) communications system, which supports authenticated communications with submarines operating beneath the ocean’s surface, allowing them to receive messages without surfacing. After post-delivery processing, the aircraft will undergo mission-system modifications, ground testing, developmental flight testing and certification before operational deployment. Trish Pagan, vice president of Lockheed Martin’s Air Mobility & Maritime Missions business, described the handover as a milestone for the Navy and the nation’s strategic communications network. Hercules Returns to the TACAMO Mission The Phoenix II name refers to the Navy’s previous use of the EC-130Q Hercules for TACAMO operations from 1963 to 1993, before the E-6 Mercury took over. The E-130J will return the Hercules family to the mission with modernized avionics, communications and survivability systems. The program is part of the wider modernization of the U.S. Nuclear Command, Control, and Communications (NC3) architecture. The program of record calls for 31 aircraft: six developmental or pre-production aircraft and 25 production aircraft. The first airframe completed assembly in early September 2025. A critical design review is planned for 2027, a production decision is targeted for 2029, and initial operational testing is expected in the early 2030s. Strategic Communications Wing 1 to Operate the Fleet Strategic Communications Wing 1 (SCW-1), based at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, will operate and maintain the E-130J fleet. The wing currently operates the E-6B Mercury around the clock, receiving, verifying and retransmitting emergency action messages. It also supports U.S. Strategic Command’s airborne command post mission, known as Looking Glass. Selected SCW-1 sailors visited the Marietta facility for program briefings, simulator flights and production line tours ahead of the aircraft handover. Capt. David Gardner, commodore of SCW-1, said the E-130J would provide sailors with next-generation survivable and reliable communications to maintain the link between national leadership and strategic nuclear forces. The existing E-6B fleet will continue operating during the transition while the E-130J completes its development, testing and certification.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 15:02:10
World
KYIV, Ukraine — Ukraine has received all the weapons production licenses promised by France, allowing it to manufacture SCALP EG cruise missiles, Aster-30 air defense missiles and AASM HAMMER precision-guided bombs domestically, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed on October 15. Following a meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron, Zelenskyy said the licenses had been delivered and called on teams from both countries to implement the agreements quickly. Macron initially announced the commitment in July 2026 during a meeting of the Coalition of the Willing in Paris. The agreement aims to strengthen Ukraine's domestic defense industry and reduce its reliance on direct weapons deliveries from allies. Production quantities and specific manufacturing timelines have not been publicly detailed. Three Weapon Systems Covered by the Agreement The SCALP EG is a long-range, air-launched cruise missile equipped with a 450-kilogram warhead and designed to destroy fixed, hardened targets. It is the French equivalent of the British Storm Shadow missile. The Aster-30 is a surface-to-air missile used by Ukraine's Franco-Italian SAMP/T air defense systems. It can intercept aircraft, drones and cruise missiles at ranges of up to 120 kilometers, as well as short-range ballistic missiles. The AASM HAMMER is a precision-guided air-to-ground munition designed to strike ground targets. In July, France and Italy also agreed to accelerate Aster-30 deliveries and confirmed plans to supply Ukraine with the next-generation SAMP/T NG air defense system. Ukraine is expected to become the first country to operate the upgraded system. Additional support includes two SAMP/T batteries from France and an order for 16 Rafale fighter jets. Pilot and maintenance training is scheduled to begin in France, with the first aircraft expected to enter Ukrainian service around 2028–2029. Zelenskyy said on October 15 that new packages to strengthen Ukrainian combat aviation would arrive during October. The two countries also agreed to accelerate the FREYJA European anti-ballistic defense program, targeting operational readiness by the end of 2026. Europe Supplies Two-Thirds of Ukraine's Intelligence Separately, French Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot said on October 15 in an interview with France Inter that European countries provide two-thirds of the intelligence Ukraine receives from its international partners. The information includes optical and radar satellite reconnaissance, radio signal interception, troop-movement tracking and early-warning data about ballistic missile launches. Barrot emphasized Europe's longstanding role in providing intelligence and direct military support to Ukraine. His comments came amid reports of possible changes in intelligence-sharing arrangements and concerns about satellite communications systems used by Ukrainian forces. The domestic production licenses and continued intelligence sharing form part of broader European efforts to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities. However, the start date and expected output of Ukrainian weapons manufacturing have not been publicly specified.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 14:53:36
Shield AI Hivemind Software Guides Taiwanese Uncrewed Boats in Joint Patrol and Escort Demonstration
World
TAIWAN, — U.S. defense technology company Shield AI and Taiwan-based Thunder Tiger Corp. have demonstrated how Hivemind autonomy software can coordinate uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) during maritime patrol and escort missions. The July 29 demonstration took place in Dapeng Bay, Pingtung County, southern Taiwan, using Thunder Tiger’s six-meter SeaShark 600 and eight-meter SeaShark 800. The companies completed software integration in six weeks, starting with digital models before testing Hivemind on the actual boats. Personnel from Taiwan’s state-run National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) and Coast Guard Administration attended the demonstration. Coordinated Patrol and Escort Mission planners divided the patrol area into two sectors, assigning one SeaShark to each. Both boats used maritime radar and the Automatic Identification System (AIS), which broadcasts ships’ identities and positions, to monitor surrounding traffic. When a third vessel acting as a vessel of interest entered the area, Hivemind combined radar contacts and AIS reports, which can differ in update rates and reported positions, into a continuously updated track shared by both boats. The SeaShark 600 transmitted live electro-optical and infrared video of the target to operators ashore. Hivemind then paused the patrol and directed the boats into an escort formation, positioning one on the target’s port side and the other on its starboard side. This provided two viewing angles and positioned the vessels to support an interdiction if ordered. No interdiction was reported. After the target left the area, Hivemind ended the escort and returned both boats to their original patrol sectors without operators directing each individual movement. Simulation Shows Increased Patrol Coverage Shield AI also simulated five uncrewed boats using adaptive patrols across a 50-nautical-mile (93-kilometer) stretch of water. Five boats following fixed patrol patterns covered six nautical miles (11 kilometers). Both groups maintained a reported 95% vessel identification rate, giving the adaptive approach approximately 8.3 times the coverage with the same number of boats. These were simulation results; actual performance depends on sensors, vessel speed and sea conditions. “We sought out the world’s strongest technology: Shield AI’s Hivemind. We chose them because we know they have already integrated and tested on 30+ platforms,” said Bryan L., who leads Thunder Tiger’s USV division. Thunder Tiger Chairman William Chen said: “We are very optimistic about Hivemind, which brings autonomy to USVs for area search, target tracking, and the execution of these missions.” Taiwan Partnership and Uncrewed Systems Plans Shield AI and Thunder Tiger signed a partnership in May 2026 to integrate Hivemind into Thunder Tiger’s uncrewed systems, beginning with the SeaShark family. In February 2026, Shield AI also signed a contract with NCSIST covering Hivemind tools for Taiwanese-built platforms. Shield AI says the software has been integrated into more than 30 platforms, including F-16 fighter aircraft and uncrewed boats. Taiwan’s coastline extends more than 1,500 kilometers (930 miles) across the main island and outlying islands. Its Ministry of National Defense has requested funding for 1,320 uncrewed surface vessels and thousands of coastal reconnaissance and attack drones. Shield AI said the six-week project established a repeatable process for integrating Hivemind into other uncrewed boats. The demonstration showed how autonomous software can coordinate patrols, track vessels and reassign missions, supporting Taiwan’s broader interest in expanding uncrewed maritime capabilities.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 14:41:39
Space & Technology
CAPE CANAVERAL, Florida, — Blue Origin, the space company founded by Jeff Bezos, has announced a $330 million expansion of its Florida manufacturing and launch infrastructure to increase production and launch capacity for its New Glenn heavy-lift rocket. The company aims to support multiple flights per week by the end of the decade and more than 100 launches annually in the longer term. New Manufacturing Facility to Produce 150 Upper Stages Annually Blue Origin is expanding its Rocket Park manufacturing campus near NASA’s Kennedy Space Center with a planned 1.37-million-square-foot facility. Scheduled for completion in summer 2027, the facility will use automated machining and welding to produce up to 150 upper stages annually for the New Glenn 9x4 configuration. The 9x4 version will feature nine BE-4 engines on its first stage and four BE-3U engines on its upper stage, compared with seven and two engines, respectively, on the current 7x2 configuration. Two Additional Launch Pads Planned The company plans to build two additional launch pads at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, joining two already under development at Launch Complex 36 (LC-36). LC-36A is being restored following damage in May 2026, while LC-36B is under construction to support the larger New Glenn 9x4 rocket. Blue Origin has also filed an environmental assessment seeking Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval to increase the permitted launch rate at LC-36 from 12 to 50 launches annually. A public comment period is underway. More Recovery Ships and Payload Processing Capacity Blue Origin is procuring two additional sea-based recovery ships to support the reusable first-stage boosters. The vessels will join its existing recovery ship, Jacklyn, based at Port Canaveral. The company is also developing a vertical integration facility near LC-36 to process recovered boosters. In partnership with the U.S. Space Force, Blue Origin is building a four-bay customer integration facility at Cape Canaveral. It will include two payload encapsulation bays and a multi-manifest processing area, allowing crews to prepare multiple government and commercial payloads simultaneously for both New Glenn configurations. Florida Operations Employ More Than 5,000 People The $330 million expansion adds to approximately $3 billion Blue Origin has already invested in Florida. Its operations span more than 20 sites across Brevard and Orange counties, employ over 5,000 people and involve approximately 500 suppliers in the state. The company's manufacturing and operations footprint has more than doubled in recent years. Ian Richardson, Blue Origin’s senior vice president of operations, said the investment is focused on increasing mission capacity, reliability and efficiency. The infrastructure is designed to support multiple flights per week by the end of the decade. New Glenn Remains Grounded After May Incident New Glenn remains grounded following an anomaly during a static-fire test at LC-36A on May 28, 2026. The incident destroyed a fully stacked rocket and damaged the launch complex, including its lightning tower and transporter-erector. Blue Origin is rebuilding the site using a horizontal and vertical hybrid concept of operations planned for the 9x4 configuration. Rocket production continues as the company works toward returning New Glenn to flight. The expansion is intended to strengthen Blue Origin’s capacity to serve commercial and U.S. national security launch markets while supporting its longer-term goal of increasing New Glenn’s launch frequency.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 14:22:06
World
MINSK, Belarus — Belarus is expanding its defense manufacturing infrastructure to support ammunition supplies to Russia, with upgrades at the Legmash Plant OJSC, construction of a new ammunition factory, and additional contracts for military vehicle chassis. Legmash Plant Expands Production Facilities According to the State Military-Industrial Committee of Belarus, the Legmash Plant commissioned five construction projects between June and September 2026. The work included modernizing existing production buildings, installing new utility lines and manufacturing equipment, and constructing an administrative and amenity building. Officials said the upgrades would improve technological capabilities and working conditions. Located at Vostochny Lane 17 in Orsha, Legmash is linked to Russia's ammunition supply chain. According to BELPOL, a community of former Belarusian law enforcement officers, the plant produces components for 122 mm artillery rockets used by Russia's Grad multiple-launch rocket systems (MLRS). These components are reportedly supplied to Russia's JSC Machine-Building Plant Shtamp, named after B.L. Vannikov, and the A.N. Ganichev Scientific and Production Association SPLAV, where final ammunition assembly takes place. BELPOL has shared evidence of the plant's activities with governmental partners in the European Union, the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Ukraine to support efforts to impose additional sanctions. The Legmash Plant was already placed under EU sanctions in July 2025 for producing 152 mm and 122 mm artillery shells and 122 mm unguided rockets for Grad systems. It is also subject to related restrictions in other jurisdictions. New Ammunition Factory Planned for December Belarus is also building a new ammunition factory in the Slutsk district of the Minsk region, on the site of a former military arsenal. Scheduled to begin operations in December 2026, the facility will supply both Belarusian and Russian armed forces. Designed for continuous production across three shifts, the factory is expected to have an annual capacity of up to 180,000 152 mm artillery shells and 270,000 122 mm artillery rockets. MZKT Signs Contract for 30 Military Chassis The Minsk Wheel Tractor Plant (MZKT) has signed a contract with Moscow-based JSC Defense Systems to supply 30 specialized wheeled chassis, with deliveries planned through 2029. The agreement covers 20 MZKT-8021-021 chassis, five MZKT-8022-021 units, and five MZKT-80211-021 units. These chassis were developed for military applications, including elements of air defense systems such as the Pechora-2M, and have also been used for other air defense and radar equipment. The expansion of Legmash, construction of the new ammunition factory, and MZKT contract highlight continuing industrial cooperation between Belarusian defense-related enterprises and Russian manufacturers in ammunition production and military support equipment.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 14:09:03
U.S
PATUXENT RIVER, Md. — The U.S. Navy’s Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) has demonstrated that an unmanned aircraft system (UAS) can navigate and land on a moving ship without GPS or direct human pilot control. The technology is designed to help unmanned aircraft operate in maritime environments where satellite navigation and communications may be jammed. The demonstrations showed that a tactical drone could perform mission tasks and recover on a vessel with a pitching deck. The system uses commercial-standard cameras, motion sensors and onboard electronics combined with guidance, navigation and control software developed by NAWCAD’s Maritime Autonomous Guidance-Navigation-Control Intelligent Coupled Systems Lab. Testing included work with a scale model of a Navy Yard Patrol craft on October 14, following initial indoor validation of the computer vision and flight-control algorithms. “In contested areas where satellites and communications are jammed, autonomy gives significant advantage to our sailors,” said Navy Rear Adm. Todd Evans, NAWCAD commander. “Breakthroughs like this help us scale unmanned capability fast and affordably across a distributed fleet.” How the Technology Works Traditional shipboard drone recovery can require multimillion-dollar radar systems, specialized flight-deck equipment and ship modifications that take months to complete. NAWCAD’s approach uses existing aircraft sensors and software to reduce the need for this additional hardware. The drone uses computer vision to recognize the ship’s shape and visual features, guiding its approach without GPS. Algorithms predict the deck’s movements in real time, allowing the aircraft to adjust its flight path and land on the moving vessel. The modular software is designed to work with different unmanned aircraft computer systems and could support platforms ranging from small tactical quadcopters to larger combat-class aircraft. “In a high-end maritime conflict, GPS is the first operational link an adversary attempts to sever,” said Peter Arslanian, a NAWCAD aerospace engineer. He added that the adaptable software could expand deployment options through software upgrades rather than expensive modifications to ships with limited space. Funding and Future Integration The project was funded by the Office of Naval Research and the Naval Innovative Science and Engineering Program. With the initial flight demonstrations complete, the software is ready to progress toward operational testing on fleet platforms. NAWCAD is coordinating with military program offices to move the technology into formal acquisition processes, including the Navy’s Small Tactical Unmanned Aircraft Systems program, the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency’s (DARPA) EVADE project. NAWCAD also plans to adapt the technology for larger unmanned systems, particularly tactical resupply drones that could deliver equipment to ships operating in contested waters. NAWCAD employs military personnel, civilians and contractors to operate test ranges, laboratories and aircraft supporting the testing, evaluation, research, development and sustainment of Navy and Marine Corps aviation platforms. Headquartered in Patuxent River, Maryland, it also has major operational sites in St. Inigoes, Maryland; Lakehurst, New Jersey; and Orlando, Florida.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 13:59:42
Europe
STOCKHOLM, — Swedish defence company Saab, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and the Swedish Armed Forces have completed the first phase of a Large Uncrewed Underwater Vehicle (LUUV) demonstrator project following successful sea trials. FMV awarded Saab a SEK 60 million contract in August 2025 for the vehicle's design, construction and testing. Saab is the prime contractor, while FMV leads the project in cooperation with the Swedish Armed Forces. The demonstrator progressed from concept to sea trials in less than a year, marking the completion of the project's initial phase. Autonomous Underwater Surveillance The LUUV is designed primarily as a sensor platform, not a weapons system. Its intended missions include seabed monitoring and mapping, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), protection of critical underwater infrastructure, and detection of potential underwater threats. The vehicle could operate alongside existing naval platforms, including crewed submarines, to increase endurance, improve situational awareness and strengthen Sweden's underwater capabilities. It is intended to support operators by collecting information and helping them assess underwater conditions. Saab has also referred to the vehicle in some contexts as the Autonomous Ocean Drone (AOD). Reported baseline specifications for the ISR-configured version include a length of approximately 7 metres, a diameter of 1.4 metres and a weight of around 6.5 tonnes. Powered by lithium-ion batteries, it has a reported range exceeding 600 nautical miles at a patrol speed of approximately 4 knots. Earlier FMV design requirements specified a length of around 6.5 metres, a maximum speed of 14 km/h and a maximum operating depth of 500 metres. These earlier figures are design requirements, not necessarily the demonstrator's final specifications. Saab's Autonomous Technology The rapid development was supported by Saab's software-centric approach and its Autonomous Ocean Core control system, which provides autonomous capabilities for surface and underwater platforms. The system combines with Sweden's expertise in submarine design and sensor integration, building on Saab's earlier work in autonomous underwater systems. The project reflects Sweden's growing focus on protecting Baltic Sea infrastructure, including undersea cables and other critical maritime assets. Autonomous underwater vehicles could help monitor large areas and complement existing naval platforms in surveillance missions. Further Testing and Development The project will now enter a more advanced testing phase in relevant marine environments. Future work will focus on software development, advanced sensor integration and expanded autonomous functions. The long-term objective is for the vehicle to remain at sea for extended periods, operating with or without direct human supervision. Potential launch and recovery from submarines or other platforms is also part of the concept. Martin Nyqvist, FMV's project manager for underwater warfare systems, said the next step would involve continued evaluation in relevant marine environments. Mats Wicksell, head of Saab's Naval business area, said: “This project demonstrates how new technologies can be rapidly translated into practical operational value. The uncrewed underwater vehicle can contribute to increased endurance, enhanced situational awareness and strengthened underwater capabilities. The fact that we have also been able to develop and test the system in such a short timeframe demonstrates the strength of the collaboration between the Swedish Armed Forces, FMV and Saab.” The demonstrator's test results will support further development and help Swedish authorities assess future procurement and operational use of autonomous underwater systems. Although the first phase has been completed, the vehicle is not yet confirmed as operationally ready or in military service.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 13:49:08
U.S
FALLS CHURCH, Va. — BAE Systems has secured a contract from the U.S. Space Force’s Space Systems Command (SSC) to design and demonstrate ultra-compact radio-frequency (RF) terminals for a space-based data layer. The terminals will support resilient communications between satellites and between spacecraft and ground stations. Multi-Orbit Satellite Communications The terminals are being designed to operate across orbital regimes ranging from low Earth orbit (LEO) to geosynchronous Earth orbit (GEO). BAE Systems will use its existing family of space-hardened, software-defined radios as the basis for the system. The terminals are designed to maintain reliable communications despite intentional jamming, electromagnetic interference and space radiation. They will incorporate military-grade security and an application programming interface (API) to support precise pointing between payloads. Their compact design aims to reduce size, weight, power consumption and cost, allowing integration into both small satellites and larger spacecraft. Prototype Testing and Production During the initial phase, BAE Systems will work with Space Systems Command teams to build, test and demonstrate prototype terminals in simulated orbital environments. Testing is expected to cover API command sequences, multi-band frequency agility and crosslink acquisition. The system will also undergo space-characterization testing. BAE Systems plans to work with government partners to demonstrate the technology and is preparing for scalable manufacturing to meet future military requirements, including those of the Department of War. BAE Systems Highlights Experience Joe Dziezynski, BAE Systems’ Space Systems product line director, said: “This contract leverages decades of experience delivering mission-critical, radiation-hardened hardware and communications systems – from Apollo-era programs to today’s deep-space and airborne missions. Our resilient design and established manufacturing capacity will enable rapid deployment and scalable production, supporting the Space Force’s vital mission to enhance global security”. Contract Details The contract was announced on October 15, 2026. BAE Systems and the U.S. Space Force have not disclosed the contract’s financial value or the number of terminals to be built. No specific dates have been announced for testing, demonstration or deployment.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-16 13:36:09
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 16:35:49Search
Top Trending in 24 Hours
-
U.S. Navy Assesses Domestic Shipyard Capacity for Next-Generation SSN(X) Submarine
-
U.S. Air Force Tests F-22 Raptor’s In-Flight Control of YFQ-44A Fury Drone
-
Belgium to Transfer 10 F-16 Fighter Jets to Ukraine by End of 2026
-
Rolls-Royce vs Safran: Who Offers India More for Its AMCA Fighter Engine?
-
Naval Group Rolls Out Fifth Barracuda-Class Nuclear Attack Submarine Rubis for French Navy
-
U.S. Army Selects Missile Startup Furientis for 2027 IFPC Air Defense Shoot-Off
Top Trending in 4 Days
-
US Develops New Iran Strike Plans, Including Possible Use of MOAB Bomb
-
Bengaluru-Developed Sheshnaag-150 Completes First Rocket-Assisted Take-Off Trial
-
Ukraine Regains Starshield Connectivity After Sudden Speed Limits Disrupt Drone Operations
-
U.S. Navy Assesses Domestic Shipyard Capacity for Next-Generation SSN(X) Submarine
-
Moog Unveils MR SLED Mobile Defense System With 37 Kestrel Interceptors and Up to 12 Zeus Missiles
-
South Korea’s Hanwha Systems Demonstrates 30 kW Laser Air Defense System by Destroying Three Target Drones
-
U.S. Air Force Targets 2028 Prototypes for Massed Modular Aircraft to Replace MQ-9 Reaper
-
Israel Deploys Additional David’s Sling Air Defenses in North Amid Rising Tensions With Iran Ahead of Elections
