Europe
DÜSSELDORF, Germany — Rheinmetall has secured a contract to supply the core weapon systems for 72 RCH 155 wheeled howitzers ordered by the British Army under the United Kingdom's joint artillery modernization programme with Germany. The supply contract, awarded in the second quarter of 2026, is valued in the low three-digit million-euro range. It follows the UK's order for 72 RCH 155 systems announced in May 2026, with the overall acquisition valued at nearly £1 billion, including initial training and in-service support. OCCAR Managing Joint UK-Germany Programme The procurement is being carried out through the Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), which awarded the main contract to ARTEC GmbH, a joint venture between Rheinmetall and KNDS Deutschland. Both companies are participating in the programme as subcontractors. The programme is part of the broader UK-Germany defence cooperation established under the Trinity House Agreement, signed in 2024, which aims to strengthen defence collaboration and improve interoperability between the two countries and within NATO. Rheinmetall to Manufacture Key Weapon Systems in the UK Germany and the United Kingdom are currently qualifying the 155 mm L/52 remote-controlled weapon system for service with both armies. Once the qualification process is complete, Rheinmetall will supply 72 elevating masses together with associated onboard tools. The company will also produce training materials and technical documentation to support the introduction of the new artillery systems. Manufacturing of the weapon systems—including the barrel, breech, recoil system, and trunnions—will take place at Rheinmetall's new gun production facility in Telford, United Kingdom, which is being brought into service in phases. Deliveries of the weapon systems are scheduled from May 2028 through June 2031. In support of the UK's domestic defence industry, Rheinmetall plans to manufacture the gun barrels using British steel supplied by Sheffield Forgemasters. UK Production to Support Hundreds of Jobs The programme also includes significant manufacturing work within the United Kingdom. KNDS UK will produce the BOXER drive modules, including the chassis, engine, and drivetrain, at its facility in Stockport. According to Rheinmetall, the programme is expected to support at least 500 jobs across the UK, including 100 new skilled positions in Telford, 100 jobs in Stockport, and approximately 300 roles across the wider British supply chain. RCH 155 to Replace AS90 Artillery The RCH 155 combines the GTK Boxer wheeled armoured vehicle with an automated artillery module derived from the Panzerhaubitze 2000. The system is equipped with an unmanned, fully automated turret housing a 155 mm gun, allowing it to be operated by a crew of two soldiers from within the protected drive module. The wheeled howitzer is capable of travelling at speeds of up to 100 km/h and can fire while moving, providing greater mobility during operations. It can fire up to eight rounds per minute with a maximum range of up to 70 km, depending on the ammunition used. The British Army is acquiring the RCH 155 to replace the AS90 self-propelled howitzers transferred to Ukraine in 2023. The system is also expected to eventually replace the Army's interim Archer capability. Deliveries Begin in 2028 Deliveries of the complete RCH 155 systems to the British Army are scheduled to begin in 2028. Alongside the UK programme, Rheinmetall is continuing to expand its production capacity for 155 mm weapons and ammunition as part of its broader manufacturing activities across Europe.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-31 12:47:39
U.S
WASHINGTON — The U.S. military has received its first batch of 2,000 F10 first-person view (FPV) strike drones manufactured by Ukrainian company F-Drones, marking the first official export of fully assembled Ukrainian-made combat drones to the United States. F-Drones confirmed the delivery to the Ukrainian defense publication Militarnyi, stating that the shipment represents a significant step for Ukraine's defense industry. According to the company, this is the first time the Ukrainian government has authorized the export of complete, combat-ready domestically produced military drones. Previous approvals issued during the current period of martial law were limited to the export of specific components and technologies rather than finished weapons systems. Ukraine's State Service of Export Control granted the export permit on July 1, 2026, with support from the state-owned enterprise Spetstechnoexport. The drones were manufactured in Ukraine before being delivered to the United States. Acceptance Process and Training The newly delivered F10 drones are currently undergoing the U.S. military's standard acceptance process. Once the hardware successfully completes quality checks, U.S. military personnel will begin training on operating the drones. F-Drones said it has already submitted a separate application to Ukraine's State Service for Export Control seeking approval to provide training services for U.S. personnel. "These units are currently undergoing the acceptance process. Once it is completed, training for U.S. military personnel will begin, covering how to operate our UAVs," the company stated. The company added that the current agreement includes an option for the delivery of up to 1,000 additional F10 drones after the acceptance process is completed. Part of the Pentagon's Drone Dominance Program The delivery is part of the Gauntlet I phase of the Pentagon's Drone Dominance Program, a U.S. Department of Defense initiative aimed at rapidly acquiring more than 200,000 tactical drones by 2027. The program is backed by approximately $1 billion to $1.1 billion in funding and focuses on procuring drones capable of delivering lethal effects in demanding battlefield conditions. F-Drones secured its place in the program together with its U.S. partner, UDD Tech Corp. (Ukrainian Defense Drones Tech Corp.). During the Gauntlet I evaluations held at Fort Benning, Georgia, in February 2026, the F10 drone was tested by U.S. soldiers in field operations and long-range strike scenarios. The system finished sixth among 25 competing platforms and was selected among the top-performing companies to receive prototype procurement contracts. Manufacturing Partnership in the United States To expand cooperation with the U.S. defense sector, UDD Tech Corp. is establishing a manufacturing facility in Holland, Ohio. According to the company, the goal is to gradually shift from importing completed Ukrainian-made drones to manufacturing the systems within the United States. F-Drones Chief Executive Officer Stas Khutor said exports help strengthen Ukraine's defense industry rather than reduce supplies available to its armed forces. "Exports are a tool for scaling up production, attracting investment, advancing technology, raising quality standards, and strengthening international cooperation. It does not mean 'less for the front line'. On the contrary, a stronger industry means stronger Armed Forces," Khutor said. Gauntlet II Evaluations Underway The Drone Dominance Program consists of four competitive Gauntlet phases, with Gauntlet II now underway. F-Drones and UDD Tech Corp. have qualified for the second phase, which will focus on night operations, urban environments, and close-quarters combat. As part of the upcoming evaluations, the company plans to deliver 120 additional F10 drones for use by U.S. military personnel during testing. According to company information, the trials are scheduled for late August 2026 at Camp Grayling, Michigan, where U.S. military operators will independently evaluate the drones across multiple combat mission scenarios. The results of the Gauntlet II evaluations will help determine future procurement decisions. Depending on performance, F-Drones could become eligible for a follow-on agreement covering up to 9,000 additional drones. Expanding International Cooperation Alongside its U.S. partnership, F-Drones is also expanding its presence in Europe. The company recently became a founding member of the Ukraine–EU Drone Alliance, an initiative established to strengthen cooperation between Ukrainian and European drone manufacturers and increase production capacity for unmanned systems. The first shipment of 2,000 F10 FPV drones marks both the beginning of operational deliveries to the U.S. military and the first officially approved export of fully assembled Ukrainian combat drones, reflecting growing defense-industrial cooperation between Ukraine and the United States.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-31 12:40:38
U.S
El Segundo, California — The U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and Atlanta-based hypersonic aircraft company Hermeus have successfully completed an unmanned stores separation flight test with the Quarterhorse uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV), marking another milestone in the Hypersonic and High-Cadence Airborne Testing Capabilities (HyCAT) program. The successful flight demonstrated that the Quarterhorse aircraft can safely release an external payload during flight, an important requirement for military aircraft designed to carry and deploy equipment such as munitions, sensor pods, or electronic warfare systems. Until this capability is validated, an aircraft remains primarily a research and testing platform rather than one capable of operational payload deployment. DIU described the achievement as another important milestone for the HyCAT program, noting that the stores separation test was completed during the program's fifth flight since spring 2026. "Another huge HyCAT milestone, a successful unmanned stores separation flight test with Hermeus. This was only the program's 5th flight since the Spring. Tests like this usually take years. We're moving 4x as fast," DIU stated. Stores Separation Test Validates Safe Payload Release A stores separation test verifies that an external payload can be released safely without striking the aircraft or disrupting its flight. The process is considered a critical certification step for any military aircraft expected to carry external stores. The challenge becomes greater at high subsonic and transonic speeds, where airflow around the aircraft and released object becomes increasingly complex. If a payload does not separate correctly, it could collide with the aircraft or create flight instability. The successful demonstration provides engineers with flight data that can be used to model payload releases at progressively higher speeds as the Quarterhorse flight test program expands. HyCAT Program Aims to Accelerate Hypersonic Testing The HyCAT program was launched by the Defense Innovation Unit in early 2023 to accelerate hypersonic flight testing by working with commercial aerospace companies instead of relying solely on traditional defense acquisition processes. Hypersonic flight testing has historically faced challenges including limited wind tunnel capacity, restricted access to specialized test ranges, and the technical complexity of sustained flight above Mach 5. Through partnerships with private industry and the use of commercial investment alongside government funding, DIU aims to shorten development timelines and generate flight data more rapidly than conventional programs. Quarterhorse Supports Future High-Speed Aircraft Development The aircraft used during the test was Hermeus' Quarterhorse, an uncrewed experimental aircraft developed to mature technologies for future high-speed military aircraft. According to Hermeus, Quarterhorse is powered by its Chimera turbine-based combined-cycle (TBCC) propulsion system, built around a modified General Electric J85 turbojet core. The engine is designed to operate as a conventional turbojet at lower speeds before transitioning to another propulsion mode as the aircraft approaches higher-speed flight, allowing one propulsion system to support multiple flight regimes. Earlier in 2026, Hermeus reported that Quarterhorse reached Mach 1.21, approximately 930 miles per hour (1,497 km/h), during a previous flight. The company plans to expand the aircraft's flight envelope toward Mach 3 by 2027. Expanded DIU-Hermeus Partnership DIU first selected Hermeus for the HyCAT program in November 2023 with a contract valued at $23 million to demonstrate propulsion, thermal management, power generation, and mission-system technologies. In May 2026, the partnership expanded through a $159 million contract modification, increasing the total contract ceiling to $219 million. Under the updated agreement, Hermeus will continue Quarterhorse flight testing throughout 2026 and 2027 while providing flight data to DIU, the U.S. Air Force, and the U.S. Navy. The expanded work includes high-Mach flight demonstrations and high-speed payload release testing to support future military aircraft concepts. Hermeus has stated that Quarterhorse is intended as a technology development platform rather than an operational aircraft. The company plans to apply the knowledge gained from Quarterhorse to its future uncrewed aircraft, Darkhorse. Hermeus describes Darkhorse as a reusable, multi-mission hypersonic uncrewed aircraft intended for strike and reconnaissance missions. The company has said the platform will incorporate propulsion, structural, and thermal management technologies validated through the Quarterhorse flight test program. Defense analysts have also noted that future high-speed uncrewed aircraft could complement programs such as the U.S. Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft initiative or operate independently in strike and electronic attack roles. HyCAT Continues to Expand The HyCAT program has recorded additional progress during 2026. In February, Rocket Lab's HASTE suborbital launch vehicle carried the DART AE hypersonic testbed, developed by Australian company Hypersonix, during the Cassowary Vex mission. The flight exceeded Mach 5 and collected propulsion, trajectory, and vehicle performance data under hypersonic flight conditions. DIU is also advancing the next phase of the program, HyCAT 2, which includes work with California-based NXTRAC to develop guidance, navigation, and control technologies for future hypersonic test vehicles. The latest stores separation demonstration adds another validated capability to the Quarterhorse flight test program and provides additional flight data to support the continued development of future high-speed military aircraft under the HyCAT initiative.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-31 11:25:39
U.S
ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. — The U.S. military has awarded Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. a multiyear indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract with a maximum value of $1.84 billion to continue the production, sustainment, and modernization of the AN/AAQ-28 LITENING Comprehensive Advanced Targeting Pod (CATP). The contract, announced in the U.S. Department of War's contracts list for July 30, 2026, allows the government to place orders under the agreement through Dec. 31, 2035. It covers the production and delivery of new LITENING targeting pods, along with operational support, sustainment, and modifications for systems already in service. An initial obligation of approximately $42.9 million in fiscal 2026 operations and maintenance funds was made at the time of the award. The contract begins immediately, with details of the initial execution phase remaining limited. The firm-fixed-price agreement was awarded through a sole-source acquisition managed by the Precision Attack Contracting Branch at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, under contract number FA8540-26-D-B001. All manufacturing and engineering work will be carried out at Northrop Grumman's facility in Rolling Meadows, Illinois. Advanced Targeting System The AN/AAQ-28 LITENING is an electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) targeting pod designed to detect, acquire, identify, and track targets at extended ranges. It provides targeting and surveillance capabilities for a wide range of military missions. The system incorporates a high-resolution forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor, a charge-coupled device (CCD) television camera for daytime operations, and a laser designator for guiding precision-guided munitions. The pod weighs 459 pounds (208 kilograms) and measures just over seven feet in length. It is mounted externally on aircraft and features a modular architecture that allows capability upgrades over time without requiring a complete replacement of the system. Operational Service According to Northrop Grumman, more than 900 LITENING targeting pods have been delivered to U.S. forces and international customers. The company states that the systems have achieved operational availability of up to 95 percent. The global LITENING fleet has accumulated more than 3 million flight hours, with a significant share recorded during combat operations. In addition to precision strike missions, the targeting pod supports: Precision targeting Close air support Air superiority missions Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief monitoring Compatible Aircraft The LITENING targeting pod is integrated across a range of crewed and uncrewed aircraft, including: A-10 Thunderbolt II AV-8B Harrier II F-15E Strike Eagle F-16 Fighting Falcon F/A-18 Hornet B-52 Stratofortress C-130 Hercules MQ-9 Reaper Its compatibility with multiple aircraft types has contributed to its widespread use across different mission sets involving both manned and unmanned platforms. Industry Partnership Northrop Grumman produces the LITENING targeting pod in partnership with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems of Israel. The company's Rolling Meadows, Illinois, facility serves as a primary production location for the program. The new contract ensures continued production, sustainment, and modernization of the LITENING targeting pod fleet through the end of 2035, supporting the operational readiness of aircraft already equipped with the system while allowing future orders for additional pods under the IDIQ framework.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-31 10:42:31
India
HYDERABAD — Astra Microwave Products Limited has secured a confirmed domestic work order worth ₹2,205.23 crore from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the production and supply of key components of the indigenous Uttam Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, marking a significant step in the large-scale production of India's indigenous fighter radar programme. According to the company's disclosure under SEBI regulations, the order has been awarded by a domestic government enterprise under the Ministry of Defence. The contract value is inclusive of all applicable taxes and GST. Astra Microwave also stated that neither its promoters nor promoter group companies have any interest in the awarding entity, and the transaction is not classified as a related-party transaction. Under the contract, Astra Microwave will manufacture and supply 122 Active Antenna Array Units (AAAU) and 121 Interface Frames for the Uttam radar. The company said the order will be executed over a period of five years. The Uttam AESA radar is an indigenous fire-control radar developed by the Electronics and Radar Development Establishment (LRDE) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). It is intended for integration on the Tejas Mk1A and Tejas Mk2 fighter aircraft. The radar uses a large number of Transmit/Receive (T/R) modules to improve detection, tracking and targeting performance. According to the information provided by the company, the radar configuration includes more than 980 T/R modules. The Uttam radar is expected to gradually replace the Israeli-made ELM-2052 AESA radar on later batches of Tejas fighter aircraft. Astra Microwave has been the production partner for the Active Antenna Array Unit of the Uttam radar. The company had earlier indicated that discussions with HAL were at an advanced stage, with a formal order expected during the July–September 2026 period. The contract has now been finalized within that timeframe. The new order significantly strengthens Astra Microwave's order pipeline. As of 31 March 2026, the company's standalone order book stood at approximately ₹2,141 crore. The HAL contract substantially increases that order book and provides multi-year revenue visibility through a strategic indigenous defence programme. The contract also supports HAL's production ramp-up of the Uttam AESA radar for integration into Indian Air Force Tejas fighter aircraft and aligns with India's ongoing efforts to increase indigenous content in military aviation systems. For Astra Microwave, the order represents an expansion of its role in the country's defence manufacturing ecosystem. By supplying core radar hardware for the Tejas programme under a long-term execution schedule, the company will support the production of one of India's key indigenous airborne sensor systems over the next five years.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 16:47:30
Space & Technology
HEFEI, China — Chinese scientists have completed the construction and testing of the world's largest superconducting magnet designed for a nuclear fusion reactor, marking a key milestone for the country's next-generation fusion energy program. The announcement was made by the Institute of Plasma Physics (ASIPP) under the Chinese Academy of Sciences in Hefei, Anhui Province. The newly completed component will support the Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak (BEST), China's next-generation "artificial sun" fusion reactor. The main component is a toroidal field (TF) superconducting magnet, which is designed to confine the ultra-hot plasma required for nuclear fusion. The D-shaped magnet measures 21 metres in length, 12 metres in width and 3.3 metres in height, and weighs 582 metric tonnes. According to ASIPP, it is the largest superconducting fusion magnet ever built. Researchers said the magnet has 1.3 times the volume of the equivalent toroidal-field magnet being built for the International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER) in France and can store three times more magnetic energy, enabling it to generate stronger magnetic fields. A total of 16 toroidal-field magnets will eventually be installed around the BEST reactor to form a magnetic ring. Together, they are designed to produce a 6.5-tesla magnetic field at the centre of the plasma chamber. Magnetic confinement for fusion Tokamak fusion reactors are designed to reproduce the same nuclear fusion process that powers the Sun by combining light hydrogen isotopes to release energy. To sustain fusion, hydrogen plasma must be heated to temperatures exceeding 100 million degrees Celsius, approximately six times hotter than the Sun's core. At such temperatures, no physical material can directly contain the plasma. Instead, the toroidal-field magnet creates a powerful magnetic field that suspends the superheated plasma inside a doughnut-shaped vacuum chamber, preventing it from coming into contact with the reactor walls. Central solenoid coil completes testing Alongside the toroidal-field magnet, ASIPP also completed full-parameter and full-load testing of a high-temperature superconducting central solenoid coil, another key component of the BEST reactor. Researchers compare the central solenoid to a spark plug in a car engine because it initiates and drives the plasma current required to maintain a stable fusion reaction. During testing, the coil operated with a stable current of 60 kiloamperes and stored 6.03 megajoules of energy. According to the research team, its key performance indicators reached internationally leading levels. Developed using a fully domestic supply chain ASIPP said both superconducting magnet systems were developed entirely using a 100% domestic supply chain over a six-year development program. Chinese researchers produced all core materials locally, including superconducting tapes, high-strength cryogenic stainless steel and insulation materials, eliminating reliance on foreign suppliers. According to ASIPP Director Song Yuntao, the project achieved full localisation of core materials and manufacturing processes. The development program also resulted in 47 authorised patents and the establishment of several technical standards. Engineers said the magnet is designed to operate for approximately 60 years at temperatures close to minus 269 degrees Celsius while carrying very high electrical currents under strong mechanical stress and radiation conditions. Supporting China's next-generation fusion program The newly completed magnets are intended for the Burning Plasma Experimental Superconducting Tokamak (BEST), which is designed to move beyond current laboratory research by demonstrating sustained burning plasma. China's existing Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), often referred to as an "artificial sun," has previously achieved a world record by maintaining plasma at 100 million degrees Celsius for 1,066 seconds in steady-state high-confinement mode. Construction of the BEST experimental reactor is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2027. If the project proceeds as planned, China aims to demonstrate experimental electricity generation from controlled nuclear fusion around 2030. The BEST program also forms part of a broader roadmap that includes the future China Fusion Engineering Demonstration Reactor. Unlike conventional nuclear fission power plants, nuclear fusion does not produce greenhouse gas emissions during operation and generates significantly less long-lived radioactive waste. Researchers noted that while successful testing of the superconducting magnets represents a major engineering milestone, full reactor assembly and sustained operation under extreme conditions remain important steps before practical fusion power can be demonstrated.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 16:39:41
World
CANBERRA, Australia — Australian steel manufacturer Bisalloy Steel has secured a purchase order valued at approximately US$2 million to supply HY80 submarine-grade steel plate for the construction of U.S. Navy Virginia-class fast attack submarines. The order was placed by General Dynamics Electric Boat (GDEB), the lead contractor for the Virginia-class submarine program. The contract marks the first time that Australian-produced steel has entered the supply chain for the U.S. Navy's nuclear-powered Virginia-class submarines. The Australian Government announced the milestone on July 29, 2026, describing it as a significant step in expanding Australia's contribution to the trilateral submarine industrial base established under the AUKUS security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. The order is also expected to support broader efforts by the United States to strengthen its submarine industrial base by expanding production capacity and improving long-term supply chain resilience for key materials used in submarine construction. Australian Production of HY80 Steel The production of the submarine-grade steel is being carried out through a domestic Australian supply chain. BlueScope Steel manufactures the raw steel plate at its Port Kembla facility in New South Wales. The material is then processed by Bisalloy Steel, based in Unanderra in the Illawarra region, where it undergoes specialized processing and heat treatment to produce the finished HY80 steel. Bisalloy is Australia's only manufacturer of quenched and tempered high-strength steel plate. HY80, short for High Yield 80, is a high-strength steel developed for demanding naval applications. It is designed to provide the strength, toughness and weldability required for critical submarine structural components operating in challenging maritime environments. Qualification Through the DIVQ Program Before receiving the order, Bisalloy successfully qualified to meet the U.S. Navy's structural steel standards through the Australian Government's Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) Program. The DIVQ Program helps Australian companies satisfy the strict technical and manufacturing requirements needed to participate in U.S. submarine construction and sustainment programs. The qualification process involved extensive testing and close collaboration between Bisalloy, BlueScope, the Australian Submarine Agency (ASA), General Dynamics Electric Boat, the U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), and the U.S. Navy Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager for Submarines. Submarine steel production requires strict control over every stage of manufacturing. Each batch must consistently meet specific chemical, mechanical and fracture property requirements. The qualification process confirmed that the Australian supply chain could reliably manage alloy composition, heat treatment, mechanical testing and detailed production records in accordance with U.S. Navy standards. Support for AUKUS Industrial Cooperation Australian Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said Australian-made submarine-grade steel will be used in the construction of U.S. Navy Virginia-class submarines for the first time, demonstrating the growing contribution of Australian industry to the AUKUS submarine industrial base. Conroy said the order provides valuable production experience for Australian industry, supports skilled jobs and helps build the industrial capability needed for Australia's future nuclear-powered submarine program under AUKUS. He added that the achievement creates opportunities for Australian companies to compete for future work while raising domestic technical standards. Kylie Wright, Head of Workforce and Supply Chain at the Australian Submarine Agency, described the order as a significant achievement for Australian industry. She said it demonstrates that Australian companies can meet the rigorous standards required by one of the world's most advanced submarine programs and reflects the close collaboration across the AUKUS partnership. Strategic Importance The United States is expanding capacity across its submarine industrial base and has identified steel supply as a key priority. The inclusion of Australian suppliers is intended to strengthen resilience within the trilateral supply chain while supporting increased submarine production and maintenance requirements. Rowan Melrose, Managing Director and CEO of Bisalloy Steel Group, said the company's first order for the Virginia-class program represents an important milestone for both Bisalloy and Australian manufacturing. He said the achievement reflects years of work to meet U.S. Navy qualification standards and positions the company to pursue additional opportunities within allied defence supply chains. The Defence Industry Vendor Qualification (DIVQ) Program forms part of Australia's AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy, which aims to prepare Australian businesses to meet the standards required for U.S. and UK submarine programs while developing the industrial capability, workforce and skills needed to support Australia's future nuclear-powered submarine enterprise.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 16:34:36
World
WASHINGTON — U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has stated that no American military aircraft were destroyed or damaged during recent Iranian attacks, directly rejecting claims made by Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The IRGC had announced that its forces destroyed three U.S. F-35 fighter jets and damaged three others during retaliatory strikes. It also claimed that U.S. personnel were killed in the attack. CENTCOM denied those claims, stating that all missiles and drones launched during the attacks were either intercepted or failed to reach their intended targets. Over the past few hours, Iranian state media have continued to report false claims by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) – three in particular.🚫 FIRST CLAIM: The IRGC (again) claims free and open routes through the Strait of Hormuz are dangerous for commercial… pic.twitter.com/J34ILmDvyk — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 30, 2026 According to Iranian statements, the operation was carried out in response to U.S. strikes on targets on Iran's Qeshm Island. The IRGC said it launched ballistic missiles at deployment areas and aircraft maintenance facilities at Al-Azraq Air Base, also known as Muwaffaq Salti Air Base, in Jordan. Jordan's armed forces confirmed that five missiles launched from Iran entered Jordanian airspace but said all were intercepted by the country's air defense systems. Jordan described the incident as the latest in a series of similar missile interceptions in recent days. CENTCOM also responded to Iranian claims regarding the security situation in the Strait of Hormuz. The command rejected Iranian assertions that commercial shipping through the strategic waterway has become unsafe because of U.S. military operations. Instead, CENTCOM said the immediate threat to civilian vessels comes from the IRGC's verbal threats and attempted attacks. The U.S. command reiterated that the Strait of Hormuz remains an international waterway open to commercial transit and said U.S. forces continue to support the safe movement of merchant vessels through the area. Iran has maintained that it controls aspects of the Strait of Hormuz and has issued warnings related to maritime traffic. The IRGC has stated that the strait is under the control of its naval forces. CENTCOM rejected those claims, saying the waterway is governed by international maritime regulations and is not under IRGC jurisdiction. CENTCOM also denied Iranian reports that the commercial oil tanker M/T Nora had broken through a U.S. naval blockade. The command said the vessel did not breach the blockade and added that enforcement operations remain in place. According to CENTCOM, more than 20 U.S. warships, hundreds of aircraft, and thousands of service members are involved in enforcing the maritime measures. The operations target ships entering or leaving Iranian ports while allowing unrestricted passage for vessels that are only transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The command said U.S. forces have redirected multiple commercial vessels as part of those enforcement activities. The latest statements come as military exchanges between the United States and Iran continue. CENTCOM said U.S. forces recently conducted strikes against IRGC targets in Iran, including command centers, missile and drone facilities, coastal sites, and maritime capabilities. The strikes followed what the command described as attempted Iranian ballistic missile attacks against U.S. personnel in the region. CENTCOM said those missiles were intercepted before reaching their targets. The command also said that more than 50,000 U.S. service members remain deployed across the Middle East. The latest developments highlight the continuing exchange of military operations and conflicting official accounts from Washington and Tehran. While Iran has reported successful attacks on U.S. military assets and control over maritime activity in the Strait of Hormuz, CENTCOM has rejected those claims, maintaining that no U.S. aircraft were lost, missile attacks were intercepted, and commercial shipping continues through the international waterway under U.S. support.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 15:56:51
World
TOKYO — The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has begun captive-carry flight tests of its new air-launched Type 25 cruise missile on the Mitsubishi F-2 fighter, marking an important milestone in the development of Japan's next-generation stand-off strike capability. The first flight tests took place on July 30, 2026, from Gifu Air Base, where an F-2B test aircraft (tail number 63-8101) assigned to the Air Development and Test Wing (ADTW) was photographed carrying two missiles beneath its inboard wing pylons. Images of the flight were shared on the social media platform X by the account @AKEBOVO. An accompanying F-2A prototype (tail number 63-8501) flew alongside the test aircraft during the evaluation. 7/30 岐阜基地 RJNG 2nd岐阜基地「夏の夕べ」で飲んで帰るだけのつもりでしたが、ラッキーでした🍻 pic.twitter.com/0N5IfXBXXH — ih168 (@ih1681) July 30, 2026 Captive-Carry Flight Testing The aircraft carried what appear to be inert test versions of the air-launched Type 25 missile. During captive-carry testing, missiles remain attached to the aircraft throughout the flight while engineers evaluate their effects on the aircraft's aerodynamic performance, structural loads, handling characteristics, and overall flight stability. These tests are a standard part of missile integration before progressing to separation trials, in which the missile is safely released from the aircraft, followed by live-fire testing. Air-Launched Version of the Type 25 Missile The new air-launched weapon is based on Japan's Type 25 Surface-to-Ship Guided Missile (25SSM), previously known as the upgraded Type 12 (12SSM-ER) coastal defense missile. Japan officially redesignated the ground-launched system as the Type 25 Surface-to-Ship Guided Missile in March 2026 and has already started deploying it to Japan Ground Self-Defense Force units, including Camp Kengun in Kumamoto Prefecture. The missile is designed to engage both surface ships and land targets, providing a common long-range strike capability across multiple branches of Japan's Self-Defense Forces. Multi-Platform Missile Family The Type 25 missile family has been developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as a standardized long-range weapon that can be launched from land-based systems, aircraft, surface ships, and submarines. In September 2025, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries signed a contract with Japan's Ministry of Defense to produce ship- and submarine-launched cruise missiles. The contract was officially announced in October 2025. According to current plans, submarine-launched variants will be fired through the torpedo tubes of Japan's Sōryū-class and Taigei-class submarines. A future submarine being developed by Kawasaki is also planned to feature dedicated vertical launch cells for these long-range weapons. Missile Specifications Public information on the air-launched Type 25 remains limited. However, the ground-launched version is reported to have a range of about 1,000 kilometers, while earlier estimates for the improved Type 12 missile family placed its range between 1,000 and 1,500 kilometers against surface ships with a displacement of up to 15,000 metric tons. Because the air-launched variant begins its flight at altitude and does not require a launch booster, it is expected to achieve a similar or greater range. The missile is approximately 9 meters long and carries a warhead weighing about 300 kilograms. Its guidance system combines inertial navigation with GPS correction during the cruise phase before switching to an active radar seeker for terminal guidance. The seeker uses an active phased-array antenna, enabling improved target detection in complex environments while increasing resistance to electronic countermeasures. Deployment Timeline Japan has accelerated development of stand-off strike weapons in recent years as part of its broader defense modernization program. The ground-launched Type 25 entered service in 2026, while the ship-launched and air-launched variants are scheduled for designation and deployment around fiscal year 2027. The first operational F-2 fighters equipped with the air-launched Type 25 are planned to be based at Hyakuri Air Base. Next Phase of Testing The start of captive-carry flight testing represents the latest stage in integrating the Type 25 cruise missile with the F-2 fighter. Following completion of aerodynamic and structural evaluations, the program is expected to move to missile separation tests and later live-fire trials before the weapon enters operational service. The Type 25 is intended to provide Japan with a common long-range strike weapon capable of engaging both maritime and land targets from multiple launch platforms, including aircraft, ground launchers, surface ships, and submarines.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 15:42:32
U.S
WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded California-based Impulse Space a $27.77 million contract modification to supply two additional Mira maneuverable spacecraft for the U.S. Space Force, strengthening the service's space domain awareness capabilities in low Earth orbit (LEO). The award, announced on July 29, 2026, was issued as Modification P00010 to the company's existing Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase III contract (FA8809-25-C-B001). The modification increases the total contract value from approximately $35.04 million to $62.81 million. At the time of the award, $19.75 million in fiscal year 2025 procurement funds had been obligated. The contract is managed by Space Systems Command at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. Engineering and production work will be carried out at Impulse Space's facility in Redondo Beach, California, with completion scheduled by March 31, 2030. Supporting Space Domain Awareness Missions The two additional Mira spacecraft will host U.S. government-furnished surveillance payloads designed to support space domain awareness (SDA) missions in low Earth orbit. These payloads will detect, track, identify and assess satellites, orbital debris and other objects operating in space. Space domain awareness is a key mission for the U.S. Space Force, providing information needed to monitor activity in orbit, protect national security space assets and assess potential threats. The spacecraft will enable government sensors to operate from maneuverable platforms that can reposition after launch as mission requirements change. Maneuverable Platform for Changing Orbital Requirements Unlike conventional satellites that generally remain in fixed orbital paths, the Mira spacecraft is designed as a maneuverable orbital transfer vehicle capable of changing orbits during a mission. This allows operators to reposition payloads and sensors to improve observation and coverage when needed. The spacecraft uses an onboard propulsion system together with autonomous guidance software to carry out repeated orbital maneuvers throughout its mission. This flexibility enables government and commercial payloads to be moved between operational orbits after deployment. Transition from Prototype to Operational Capability The latest award was made under the SBIR Phase III program, which is intended for technologies that have already demonstrated military value and are transitioning into operational use rather than research and development. The purchase of two additional Mira spacecraft indicates that the Space Force considers the platform suitable for continued operational missions. The repeat procurement also reflects Impulse Space's growing role as a supplier for national security space programs. Founded in 2021 by propulsion engineer Tom Mueller, Impulse Space focuses on in-space transportation systems. The company has also been selected for the Space Force's National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 1 program, expanding opportunities to support future government space missions. Previous Missions and Space Force Programs Impulse Space has previously flown the Mira platform on multiple missions, including LEO Express flights that demonstrated high-thrust orbital maneuvers and payload operations. An earlier SBIR Phase III contract worth $34.5 million, awarded in 2024, covered two Mira spacecraft for the Space Force's VICTUS SURGO and VICTUS SALO tactically responsive space demonstration missions planned for 2026. The new contract covers only the two spacecraft. Launch services and the government-furnished payloads will be provided separately. Mira Spacecraft Specifications According to Impulse Space, the Mira spacecraft offers capabilities designed for missions requiring orbital mobility and precision. Key specifications include: Propulsion: Proprietary Saiph bipropellant thrusters using nitrous oxide and ethane. Payload Capacity: Up to 300 kilograms (660 pounds). Delta-v Performance: 500–550 meters per second for a 300 kg payload, and up to 900 meters per second for a 100 kg payload. Guidance and Control: Autonomous guidance software, reaction wheels and thrusters. Pointing Accuracy: Better than 10 arcseconds, supporting stable operation of sensitive optical payloads. Expanding Flexible Space Architecture The procurement is part of the Space Force's broader effort to build a more distributed and flexible space architecture by incorporating commercial spacecraft alongside traditional national security satellites. U.S. defense officials have highlighted increased activity by China and Russia involving spacecraft capable of complex maneuvers, close-proximity operations and orbital inspection missions. In response, the Space Force is expanding its ability to monitor the orbital environment using maneuverable platforms that can reposition sensors as operational requirements evolve. With the addition of two more Mira spacecraft, the Space Force continues to expand its use of commercially developed maneuverable vehicles to support persistent space domain awareness operations in low Earth orbit.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 15:25:15
World
Damietta, Egypt — A drone strike on a U.S.-owned floating gas storage vessel at Egypt's Damietta Port has raised new security concerns over energy infrastructure in the eastern Mediterranean, highlighting the growing risks facing maritime energy routes amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. The incident occurred on July 29, when an unmanned aerial vehicle struck the Energos Winter, a U.S.-owned floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU) operating under the Marshall Islands flag while it was docked at Damietta Port during cargo operations. According to the Egyptian cabinet, a preliminary investigation confirmed that a drone caused the fire aboard the vessel. The blaze later spread to the GasLog Salem, a Bermuda-flagged liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier. The Egyptian Ministry of Petroleum and Mineral Resources said there were no injuries or fatalities. Firefighting and security teams quickly brought the fire under control, and both vessels were moved away from the terminal to prevent further damage. Authorities also confirmed there was no damage to the port's infrastructure, and operations at other berths were expected to resume soon. Maritime security firm Ambrey and trading sources identified the targeted vessel as the Energos Winter, which is owned by U.S.-based Energos Infrastructure and has a storage capacity of about 138,250 cubic metres. The vessel's operations are managed by a subsidiary of Norway's Wilhelmsen Group, while it is leased by Egypt's state-owned Egyptian Natural Gas Holding Company. The second vessel affected by the fire, GasLog Salem, is operated by a Greek shipping company. Verified video footage released by news agencies showed emergency crews and tugboats working to extinguish the flames as smoke rose from the vessels. Investigation Continues No country or armed group has claimed responsibility for the attack, and Egyptian authorities said investigations remain ongoing. The strike took place against the backdrop of the wider Middle East conflict that began in late February 2026 involving the United States, Israel and Iran. Since then, commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea, and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait has faced repeated disruptions due to attacks and security threats, affecting regional energy exports and maritime traffic. Saudi Arabia has adjusted some of its oil export routes in response to security risks in the Persian Gulf, while Yemen's Iran-backed Houthi movement has announced measures targeting Saudi shipping. Two Iranian officials, speaking anonymously to The New York Times, described the Damietta explosion as a drone attack intended to demonstrate that global shipping and energy supplies could face greater disruption if the regional conflict expands further. However, they did not confirm whether Iran or any regional ally was responsible for carrying out the attack. Iranian state media had previously listed Damietta among potential locations linked to separate tensions involving Ukraine, but no official Iranian statement has claimed responsibility for the strike. U.S. President Donald Trump said he had been briefed on the incident and stated that Iran or its proxies were responsible, adding that the United States would respond strongly. Strategic Importance of Damietta Damietta Port is located on Egypt's Mediterranean coast near the northern entrance of the Suez Canal and serves as an important hub for the country's liquefied natural gas (LNG) operations. Egypt has increasingly relied on floating storage and regasification units (FSRUs) such as the Energos Winter to support natural gas imports for electricity generation and industrial demand, alongside remaining LNG export activities at the terminal. The attack has also drawn attention to the security of maritime routes that connect major global energy chokepoints. The Strait of Hormuz remains one of the world's most important energy corridors, traditionally handling about 20% to 25% of global seaborne oil trade. Ongoing disruptions in Hormuz and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait have already affected commercial shipping, prompting some producers to redirect exports through alternative routes linked to the Red Sea and the Suez Canal. Security analysts cited in reports said the Damietta incident appears intended to demonstrate that energy infrastructure along alternative export routes could also be vulnerable during the conflict. However, no official investigation has confirmed the motive behind the attack. Shipping Security Concerns Maritime security companies said the strike increases concerns that the conflict could spread beyond previously affected areas. Many commercial shipping companies have already reduced or rerouted traffic through parts of the Red Sea and the Persian Gulf because of security risks. A drone strike at a Mediterranean port near the Suez Canal introduces an additional security concern for vessels operating through Egyptian facilities. Egyptian authorities said they are continuing to investigate the incident while taking measures to safeguard national security and critical infrastructure. Although analysts noted that the direct impact on global LNG supplies from this single incident is limited because Egypt is not a major global gas exporter, the attack adds to broader concerns over the security of regional energy transportation routes as tensions in the Middle East continue.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 14:32:30
Europe
WILHELMSHAVEN, Germany — Rheinmetall has secured a mid-three-digit million euro contract to modernize the German Navy's F123-class frigate Bayern, extending the vessel's operational service life until at least 2035 while upgrading its systems to meet current operational requirements. The agreement was finalized at the end of the second quarter of 2026. The modernization work will be carried out at Rheinmetall's Neue Jadewerft shipyard in Wilhelmshaven and is scheduled to continue through 2029. Comprehensive Service-Life Extension Commissioned in 1996, Bayern is a 143-meter frigate belonging to the Brandenburg-class (F123), a class of four ships primarily designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW). The modernization program is intended to keep the frigate operationally ready while updating its systems to current technological standards. The vessel is currently berthed at the Neue Jadewerft facility, where crews are removing major components in preparation for the next phase of the project. After this stage is completed, the ship will be transferred to the shipyard's dry dock for the main modernization work. Key Systems to Be Upgraded The overhaul will include upgrades across several major areas of the frigate. The ship's Combat Management System (CMS) will be completely replaced, while the radar sensor suite will be modernized to support current operational requirements. Essential shipboard engineering systems will also undergo refurbishment, including the vessel's propulsion and drive systems, to improve long-term reliability and support continued service. In addition, Rheinmetall will upgrade selected anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, enhancing the frigate's effectiveness in future deployments. Rheinmetall Highlights Naval Modernization Expertise Tim Wagner, CEO of Rheinmetall's Naval Systems division, said the company is focused on delivering the modernization project on schedule. "We are now fully focused on delivering the project on schedule. The Neue Jadewerft shipyard has many years of experience in the modernization and maintenance of naval vessels—particularly frigates—and possesses extensive expertise in integrating complex maritime systems. Combined with our close cooperation with all project partners and our customer, these capabilities provide the foundation for delivering the ship to the German Navy on time and to the required quality standards." Strengthening Rheinmetall's Naval Services Business Rheinmetall said the contract demonstrates the importance of its service business within the Naval Systems division. The company noted that long-term maintenance, modernization and lifecycle support remain core activities that help maintain the operational readiness of naval platforms over many years. The contract also provides a significant addition to Rheinmetall's order book. It follows the German government's cancellation of the delayed F126 frigate program, a project Rheinmetall had expected to manage. Supporting Future German Navy Operations The F123-class frigates continue to serve as part of the German Navy's surface fleet. The service-life extension program for Bayern is designed to ensure the vessel remains operational through at least 2035, with upgraded combat, engineering, sensor and anti-submarine warfare systems that meet current operational requirements.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 14:17:53
Europe
OSLO, July 30, 2026 — According to Naval Analyses (@D__Mitch), which cited visual evidence, industry sources and defense procurement information, the Royal Norwegian Navy's Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates have been equipped with HENSOLDT's NESIS 4000 electronically steered, non-rotating Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) antenna system as part of an upgrade that has received little public attention. The analysis indicates that the modernization has been underway since 2019. The upgrade replaces the traditional mechanically rotating IFF antenna with HENSOLDT's fixed, electronically scanned NESIS 4000 system. Comparisons between older and more recent photographs of the frigates show a clear change in the design of the ships' main masts. Earlier images display rotating antennas mounted at the masthead, while newer photographs show the circular, fixed mast structure associated with the NESIS 4000. HENSOLDT, the German sensor specialist, introduced the NESIS 4000 in April 2019. The system is based on Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) technology and electronically steers interrogation beams instead of relying on a rotating mechanical antenna. The fixed, ring-shaped antenna can also be integrated lower within a ship's mast structure. According to HENSOLDT, the electronically steered design enables faster identification of friendly and unknown contacts compared with conventional rotating systems. The NESIS 4000 provides continuous 360-degree coverage with an operational range of up to 200 nautical miles. The company also states that the system can track up to 2,000 targets simultaneously across its full coverage area. The fixed design removes moving mechanical parts, reducing mechanical wear and maintenance requirements during service. Positioning the antenna lower within the mast also reduces the ship's radar cross-section (RCS) and infrared signature compared with a rotating antenna installed at the top of the mast. The system supports real-time "lock-on track" operation and includes a fully passive operating mode. By using data links such as ADS-B and Mode 5 Level 2 reception, the frigate can monitor surrounding air and maritime activity without actively transmitting signals that could reveal its position. Evidence that the system has entered operational service on Norwegian frigates has also emerged from industry sources. A LinkedIn post by a HENSOLDT-linked individual showed HNoMS Roald Amundsen fitted with the NESIS 4000 integrated into its mast. A company comment on the post described it as the first operational use of the new product on a frigate. The post dates to approximately 2022. The Fridtjof Nansen class was built by Spain's Navantia and delivered to Norway between 2006 and 2011. Five frigates were originally constructed, with four remaining in service following the loss of HNoMS Helge Ingstad in 2018. The frigates serve as the Royal Norwegian Navy's primary surface combatants and are equipped with the Aegis combat system and the Lockheed Martin AN/SPY-1F radar as their primary sensor. Additional onboard systems include a Reutech air and surface surveillance radar. HENSOLDT had previously supplied its MSSR 2000 I secondary radar for military IFF applications to the Norwegian Navy and several other operators. Although Norway has announced various modernization programs for the Nansen-class fleet over the years, public references to the installation of the NESIS 4000 have remained limited. Official Norwegian defence statements and standard open-source descriptions of the frigates have not highlighted the modification in detail. The installation of the NESIS 4000 represents a transition from conventional rotating IFF antennas to electronically steered fixed-array technology aboard the Royal Norwegian Navy's surface combatants. The upgrade provides continuous 360-degree identification capability at extended range while reducing the ships' overall radar and infrared signatures and lowering long-term maintenance requirements.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 14:08:27
World
ÇORLU, Türkiye — Türkiye's Bayraktar KIZILELMA unmanned combat aircraft has successfully completed its first live-fire tests using its internal weapons bay, marking an important step in the platform's low-observable strike capability. During the tests, the aircraft accurately released two domestically developed smart munitions—ROKETSAN's TEBER-82 and ASELSAN's TOLUN-P—from its internal weapons compartment and achieved direct hits on their designated targets. Baykar, the developer of KIZILELMA, announced the results on July 30, 2026. The tests were conducted at the Çorlu Flight Training and Test Center in Tekirdağ using the serial production aircraft with tail number S2. According to the company, KIZILELMA first conducted a successful internal-bay firing of the ROKETSAN-produced TEBER-82 on July 25. A second test followed on July 28, when the aircraft successfully released ASELSAN's TOLUN-P munition from its internal weapons bay. In both flights, the aircraft took off from Çorlu, flew to the target area, released the weapons from the internal compartment, and accurately struck the designated targets. The successful releases represent the first time both munitions have been fired from KIZILELMA's internal weapons bay. They had previously been tested from the aircraft's external under-wing hardpoints. 🇹🇷 Türkiye's Bayraktar KIZILELMA successfully completed its first live-fire tests from its internal weapons bay, releasing the TEBER-82 and TOLUN-P smart munitions and hitting designated targets. The milestone strengthens the UCAV's low-observable precision strike capability. pic.twitter.com/VDvmkPfjL7 — The Defense News (@TheDefenseNews) July 30, 2026 Internal Weapons Bay Supports Low-Observable Operations The successful use of the internal weapons bay is an important capability for low-observable combat aircraft. Carrying weapons inside the fuselage helps reduce the aircraft's radar cross-section compared with external stores, while also preserving aerodynamic performance by minimizing drag. Baykar said the successful tests confirm KIZILELMA's ability to conduct precision strikes while maintaining a lower radar signature. Internal carriage is intended to improve the aircraft's effectiveness during operations in heavily defended environments and support deeper penetration missions using domestically developed weapons. Munitions Used During the Tests The two precision-guided munitions used during the trials were developed by Turkish defense companies. The TEBER-82, developed by ROKETSAN, is a guidance kit that converts standard MK-82 general-purpose bombs into precision-guided weapons. It uses inertial navigation, GPS, and a semi-active laser seeker for guidance. According to the available specifications, it has a range of 2 to 28 kilometers, weighs approximately 270 kilograms, offers a circular error probable of less than three meters, and can engage both fixed and moving targets. It also includes an optional proximity sensor. Following the successful firing, ROKETSAN CEO Murat İkinci said the internal weapons station test had been completed successfully and highlighted the continued cooperation between the companies. The TOLUN-P, developed by ASELSAN, is an INS/GNSS-guided gliding munition in the 250-pound class designed for precision strikes. According to ASELSAN CEO Ahmet Akyol, its integration involved the SADAK-4T smart pneumatic rack, enabling the weapon to be carried inside KIZILELMA's internal weapons bay. Builds on Previous Weapons Integration The internal weapons bay tests expand KIZILELMA's ongoing weapons integration program. The aircraft has previously completed firing tests with the Gökdoğan air-to-air missile, the JET-230 air-to-surface supersonic missile, LGK-82 guidance kits, and external carriage and release of both TOLUN and TEBER-82 munitions. In mid-July 2026, KIZILELMA successfully test-fired the JET-230 missile at a range exceeding 120 kilometers. According to previous program milestones, the aircraft also became the first unmanned fighter to destroy a jet-powered aerial target using a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile in November 2025. In December 2025, two KIZILELMA prototypes completed an autonomous close-formation flight. Platform Overview Bayraktar KIZILELMA is Türkiye's first jet-powered unmanned combat aircraft and is designed as a low-observable, single-engine multirole platform. The aircraft has an overall payload capacity of approximately 1.5 tons distributed between its internal weapons bays and external under-wing stations. Depending on configuration, its maximum takeoff weight ranges from approximately 6 to 8.5 tons. Broader Significance Defense analysts note that data collected during KIZILELMA's internal weapons bay testing could support the development of other Turkish low-observable aircraft programs that also use internal weapon bays, including TUSAŞ's ANKA-III unmanned combat aircraft and the KAAN fifth-generation fighter. The successful completion of the internal-bay live-fire tests marks another step in validating KIZILELMA's ability to integrate domestically produced precision-guided weapons while supporting low-observable strike operations.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 13:47:25
Europe
COWES, Isle of Wight — GKN Aerospace has completed the engineering, manufacture, and integration of flight-ready wings, fins, and control surfaces for Brontanax, the United Kingdom's first Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) prototype developed by BAE Systems. The delivery marks a key milestone for the Brontanax programme and demonstrates the rapid pace at which the aircraft has progressed from a clean-sheet design to a flight-ready prototype. According to GKN Aerospace, the programme also highlights an accelerated approach to military product development and supply chain management. Composite Structures Built for Flight-Ready Prototype BAE Systems selected GKN Aerospace's advanced composite manufacturing and assembly capabilities to produce the aircraft's primary aerodynamic structures. The components were engineered to meet the technical requirements of the Brontanax prototype while supporting the programme's compressed development schedule. To deliver the project, GKN Aerospace combined expertise from its global network of facilities, drawing on specialist capabilities in composite manufacturing, novel tooling design, and complex product assembly. The flight-ready wings, fins, and control surfaces were manufactured at the company's composite design and assembly facility in Cowes on the Isle of Wight. The delivery also coincides with a significant local milestone, marking 125 years of aerospace innovation on the Isle of Wight. According to GKN Aerospace, the project demonstrates its ability to manufacture airworthy prototype structures while continuing to support established high-volume commercial aerospace programmes. Brontanax Collaborative Combat Aircraft Brontanax is an uncrewed autonomous aircraft designed to operate alongside crewed combat aircraft, including the Typhoon. The platform is intended to provide electronic warfare and precision strike capabilities against both airborne and ground targets. The aircraft is similar in size to a Hawk trainer and has a maximum take-off weight of more than five tonnes. BAE Systems unveiled a full-size model of Brontanax at the Farnborough International Airshow on 22 July 2026 and confirmed that a flightworthy prototype has been built at its Warton facility in Lancashire. Rapid Development Programme Development of Brontanax began in 2022 under BAE Systems' FalconWorks rapid development unit. The programme has involved more than 500 BAE Systems employees and approximately 75 UK suppliers. BAE Systems has invested more than £400 million of its own funding in the project to date. According to the company, the programme will move into its next development phases with power-on planned before the end of the third quarter of 2026, followed by ground trials during the first half of 2027. The first flight is planned for later in 2027 from an undisclosed Royal Air Force site. Company Statements Rupert Dix, Senior Vice President Defence at GKN Aerospace, said the programme demonstrates the company's ability to rapidly transform advanced aircraft concepts into flight-ready structures. "This is the latest example of GKN Aerospace's ability to turn complex, clean-sheet designs into flight-ready reality at an unprecedented pace. By combining our advanced engineering with cutting-edge manufacturing, we are actively shaping the future of next-generation combat air power for the UK and our global allies." Mark Wilson, Head of Autonomous Collaborative Platforms at BAE Systems, said GKN Aerospace played an important role in meeting the programme's demanding schedule. "The rapid progression from concept to prototype integration is a remarkable achievement. GKN Aerospace's industrial expertise, agility and commitment to collaboration have been pivotal in delivering high-quality, flight-ready structures within an extraordinarily compressed timeline." Strengthening UK Defence Manufacturing GKN Aerospace said the Brontanax programme expands its role in supporting the UK's next-generation combat air capabilities while demonstrating the strength of its domestic engineering and manufacturing base. The company added that it intends to continue applying its UK industrial capabilities to current and future defence programmes and will use the experience gained from the rapid-development project to support customers across its wider international business network.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 13:39:43
World
WARSAW — A Russian Kh-101 cruise missile entered Polish airspace and crashed in eastern Poland early Thursday during one of Russia's largest overnight missile and drone attacks on Ukraine, prompting a military response from Poland and an official investigation into the incident. The missile crashed in an undeveloped field near the village of Tarnawa-Kolonia in Biłgoraj County, Lublin Voivodeship, approximately 95 kilometers (59 miles) from the Ukrainian border. Polish authorities confirmed that the explosion caused a large crater but resulted in no casualties or structural damage. Missile Entered Polish Airspace According to the Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces, the missile followed a complex flight path before entering Poland. Tracking data showed it first entered Ukrainian airspace over the Sumy region, flew across western Ukraine toward the Volyn region, and then crossed into Polish territory. The Polish military released the following timeline of the incident: 3:16 a.m. (Polish time): Poland scrambled military aircraft in response to the large-scale Russian attack on Ukraine. 3:29 a.m.: An aerial target approached within 5 kilometers (3.1 miles) of the Polish border. 3:40 a.m.: The object was detected flying westward over Polish territory, and an F-16 fighter jet was dispatched to identify and intercept it. 3:46 a.m.: The missile disappeared from Polish military radar. Around 4:00 a.m.: Residents reported a powerful explosion that shook windows in nearby homes. To verify radar data, the military later dispatched a Mi-24 helicopter to the area. The helicopter crew located the impact site in a rural field near Tarnawa-Kolonia. Crash Site Under Investigation Local Polish media began reporting the explosion and the emergency response by 5:58 a.m. Kyiv time. Police, firefighters and other security services secured the area while investigators examined the impact site. According to local reports, the impact created a crater measuring approximately 10 meters wide and 5 meters deep, with missile fragments scattered across an area of about 200 meters. The site is located roughly 2 kilometers from the nearest residential buildings. Ukraine has also offered assistance with the investigation. Polish Government Responds Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, who visited the crash site, said all available evidence indicates the projectile was a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile, although authorities are continuing to verify its exact type and origin. "All the indications are that it was a Russian Kh-101 cruise missile, but we want to be 100% certain about the type of missile and who launched it," Tusk said during an emergency coordination meeting. Tusk said the Polish military had tracked the missile throughout the incident and was prepared to shoot it down if it had continued deeper into Polish airspace or posed a threat to populated areas. He added that investigators are also determining whether the crater was caused by the missile's warhead detonating or by the impact itself. According to Tusk, there is no indication that Poland was the intended target. He also confirmed discussing the incident with President Karol Nawrocki. Polish Air Defences Activated Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz described the night as highly demanding for Poland's air defence and surveillance systems. He said Polish F-16 fighter aircraft had been operating near the border from around 2:00 a.m., while reconnaissance aircraft and allied aerial refuelling aircraft were also activated. Air raid alerts were issued in Lublin and other parts of the province as a precaution. Monitoring channels, including eRadar and Strategic Aviation, also reported a cruise missile crossing into Polish airspace over Lublin Voivodeship during the attack. Part of a Large-Scale Russian Strike on Ukraine The airspace violation occurred during a major overnight Russian missile and drone attack across Ukraine. According to the Ukrainian Air Force Command, Russia launched 74 missiles and 284 drones during the attack. The missiles included: 61 Kh-101 and Kalibr cruise missiles Four Zircon and Oniks missiles Nine Iskander-M, S-400 and KN-23 ballistic missiles Ukraine said its air defence forces intercepted or suppressed 55 missiles and 265 drones. The primary targets included the Kyiv and Lviv regions, while strikes were also reported in Dnipropetrovsk, Sumy, Vinnytsia, Poltava, Mykolaiv, and Ivano-Frankivsk. According to Ukrainian authorities, the overnight attack killed at least eight people and injured dozens more, while causing damage across multiple regions. Ukraine Calls for Stronger Air Defences Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said the missile's entry into Poland demonstrated that strengthening Ukraine's air defence capabilities is important for the security of the wider Euro-Atlantic region. He also described the missile's flight into Poland as a violation of NATO airspace. Investigation Continues The Polish government has launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the missile's entry into Polish airspace, confirm the projectile's identity, and establish whether the crater resulted from the missile's impact or the detonation of its warhead. Authorities have reiterated that no injuries or damage to buildings were reported, while security services continue to examine the crash site.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 13:20:46
World
BEIJING — China has rejected media reports claiming it plans to supply Iran with hundreds of Chinese-made shoulder-fired air-defense missile systems, calling the reports "not true" and without any factual basis. Speaking at a regular press briefing in Beijing on Thursday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the reports were "groundless" and stressed that China has consistently worked to promote peace and de-escalation. She said Beijing has made its position on such issues clear on multiple occasions. China has denied reports that Iran will receive up to 400 Chinese-made shoulder-fired air-defense missile launchers. Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning called the claim "not true" and said it has "no factual basis," adding that China supports peace and an end to the conflict. pic.twitter.com/LYnHql6OkK — The Defense News (@TheDefenseNews) July 30, 2026 The denial follows a Reuters report published on July 29, which cited three unnamed sources claiming that Iran was expected to receive an initial shipment of up to 400 Chinese-made man-portable air-defense systems (MANPADS), including the QW-12 and FN-16 models. The report said the alleged contract covered 300 to 400 systems and was valued at $60 million to $70 million. According to the report, the alleged deal involved Zhongqing Baoshang International Investment, a Hong Kong-based intermediary, with shipments reportedly planned from Urumqi in western China through Pakistan before reaching Iran. Reuters noted that delivery schedules, quantities, and other details could still change. Pakistan also denied the claims. The country's military media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), described reports that Pakistani territory would be used as a transit route as "absolutely concocted and false" and "devoid of truth." The reported purchase emerged amid Iran's efforts to strengthen its short-range air-defense capabilities following months of conflict involving the United States and Israel. However, both China and Pakistan have publicly stated that no such arms transfer is taking place. China has also previously said it strictly controls military exports in accordance with its laws and international obligations, while reiterating its support for regional stability and efforts to reduce tensions.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 12:04:08
Europe
BARROW-IN-FURNESS — The UK government has awarded BAE Systems a £5.9 billion contract to continue construction of the Royal Navy's Dreadnought-class nuclear deterrent submarines, marking the next phase of the UK's programme to replace its aging Vanguard-class fleet. The contract forms the central part of a wider £8.4 billion funding package approved by Parliament to support the organisations responsible for maintaining and renewing the UK's nuclear deterrent. Of the total package, £5.9 billion has been allocated to BAE Systems, while the remaining £2.5 billion will support companies across the wider UK defence supply chain. The investment will advance construction of all four submarines in the Dreadnought class, which are being built to maintain the UK's Continuous at Sea Deterrent (CASD) capability. Contract Supports Construction of All Four Submarines The agreement, known as Delivery Phase 4, funds the next stage of work across the entire Dreadnought fleet. Construction of the lead submarine, HMS Dreadnought, is continuing at BAE Systems' shipyard in Barrow-in-Furness, with delivery to the Royal Navy planned for the early 2030s. The contract also provides funding to continue construction of the second submarine, HMS Valiant, progressing it toward its sea trials phase. In addition, it covers fabrication and outfitting work on the third and fourth submarines, HMS Warspite and HMS King George VI, which remain in the early stages of construction. Once completed, the four submarines will replace the Royal Navy's existing Vanguard-class fleet and ensure the continuation of the UK's Continuous at Sea Deterrent (CASD). Dreadnought-Class Features According to BAE Systems, the Dreadnought class will be the largest and most technologically advanced submarines ever built for the Royal Navy. Each submarine measures 153.6 metres in length and will be powered by a Rolls-Royce nuclear propulsion system manufactured in Derby, providing virtually unlimited operational range without the need for refuelling during service. The submarines will be equipped to carry and launch Trident II D5 ballistic missiles. They will also become the first Royal Navy submarines designed specifically for mixed-gender crews, featuring separate accommodation areas and customised day-and-night lighting systems. The programme is being delivered in partnership with the Ministry of Defence's Defence Nuclear Enterprise, which oversees the operation, maintenance and renewal of the UK's nuclear deterrent. Major Investment Across the UK Supply Chain The Dreadnought programme continues to support a large national industrial network. During the last financial year, BAE Systems spent £1.3 billion across the Dreadnought supply chain. Total programme expenditure has now reached £8.9 billion, supporting work across more than 1,500 UK suppliers. The wider Defence Nuclear Enterprise currently supports around 47,000 jobs across approximately 6,000 companies throughout the UK. The Dreadnought programme itself supports around 30,000 jobs, including more than 7,000 BAE Systems employees working directly on the project. The government has also said the wider investment package aims to create 22,000 apprenticeships by 2035, helping develop the future defence manufacturing workforce. Barrow Remains the Centre of UK Submarine Construction Barrow-in-Furness continues to play a central role in the UK's submarine-building industry. BAE Systems has invested £1 billion in its Barrow shipyard over the past four years to expand production capacity for the Dreadnought programme. During the same period, the workforce at the site has increased from 11,000 to approximately 16,000 employees, reflecting the scale of the programme. The company is also investing in local training and community facilities through the Team Barrow partnership and the £200 million Barrow Transformation Fund. In September 2025, King Charles III granted Barrow-in-Furness official Royal Port status in recognition of the town's longstanding contribution to UK defence and submarine construction. Government and Industry Highlight Strategic Importance BAE Systems Chief Executive Charles Woodburn said the Dreadnought programme is essential to the UK's long-term security and depends on the country's industrial base. "The Dreadnought programme is of vital strategic importance to the UK, underpinning the security of our nation and our allies for decades to come. Its delivery depends on the strength of our national industrial base, with thousands of skilled workers right across the country playing their part in the mission to deliver this critical capability to the Royal Navy." Defence Secretary Wes Streeting said the UK's nuclear-armed submarines remain a key part of national security and described the investment as supporting both defence capability and British industry. He said the funding secures delivery of the Dreadnought-class fleet while supporting thousands of skilled jobs and strengthening Barrow's long-standing role in submarine construction. Prime Minister Andy Burnham said protecting the country remains the government's primary responsibility and added that the programme also supports domestic manufacturing by creating opportunities for future generations of skilled workers. Programme Remains on Schedule The UK government said the Dreadnought programme remains on track, with HMS Dreadnought expected to enter Royal Navy service in the early 2030s. The latest investment ensures continued progress across all four submarines while supporting the industrial base, supply chain and workforce required to deliver one of the UK's largest long-term defence programmes.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 11:52:51
U.S
SAN DIEGO, California — A small autonomous sea drone developed by California-based startup Seasats captured close-range video and collected data on a Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy Type 052D guided-missile destroyer in Philippine waters earlier this summer, highlighting the growing role of low-cost unmanned surface vessels in maritime surveillance. According to Seasats, its Lightfish autonomous surface vessel approached the Chinese warship on June 16, approximately 105 kilometers (65 miles) northwest of Luzon Island, within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The company shared the footage with Reuters, which independently verified its authenticity. Reuters confirmed the vessel as a PLA Navy Type 052D guided-missile destroyer by matching its deck layout, mast, crane, and superstructure with archived imagery. The news agency also verified the location using Seasats' navigation data and confirmed the date through the original file metadata. The incident is believed to be the first publicly reported case of a private U.S. company releasing verified close-range footage of a Chinese warship recorded by one of its autonomous sea drones. Low-Cost Drone Tracks Billion-Dollar Warship The encounter highlights how relatively inexpensive autonomous vessels are increasingly being used for maritime surveillance. The Lightfish drone costs about $240,000, while the Chinese Type 052D guided-missile destroyer is valued at roughly $1 billion. Seasats CEO Mike Flanigan said the company successfully navigated the drone close to the destroyer and recorded extensive video and other data during the mission. The Lightfish is the smallest vessel in Seasats' current lineup. It can be transported in the back of a standard pickup truck, deployed from a small boat or boat ramp, and launched or recovered within minutes by one or two operators. The hybrid-powered vessel is designed for long-duration missions of up to six months and can operate in Sea State 6 conditions with waves reaching 20 feet (6 meters). Equipped for Maritime Surveillance Lightfish drones can carry a range of surveillance and sensing systems, including: Electro-optical cameras Infrared cameras Signals intelligence equipment Electronic warfare payloads Active sonar Passive sonar These systems enable the vessel to collect visual, electronic, and underwater information during extended autonomous missions. By comparison, the Type 052D destroyer is a major surface combatant measuring approximately 156 meters in length, with a full-load displacement of around 7,000 tons and a crew of about 280 personnel. Previous Encounters With Chinese Naval Ships Seasats said this was not its first encounter with Chinese naval vessels. The company stated that its autonomous surface drones have previously operated near Type 052 destroyers, Type 055 destroyers, and Type 056 corvettes during missions over the years. According to the company, the drones' small size and low profile often allow them to operate without being visually detected. However, Seasats noted that both the drones and the naval vessels emit electronic signatures through their radar and other scanning systems. Regional Tensions Continue The encounter occurred against the backdrop of continuing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, where China maintains an extensive maritime presence despite the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling that rejected its broad claims over much of the sea. The Armed Forces of the Philippines recently reported monitoring 26 Chinese navy and coast guard vessels operating in key areas of the disputed waters. The Philippine Coast Guard has also reported an increased presence of Chinese maritime forces, including warships, in the area compared with 2024. China and Philippines Respond Asked about the June 16 footage, the Chinese Embassy in Washington said it had no information to provide and was unfamiliar with the incident. Separately, China's Foreign Ministry defended the country's military activities, stating they are conducted in accordance with international law and international practices. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said relevant parties should avoid approaching Chinese naval vessels at close range, warning that such actions could increase the risk of accidental incidents at sea or in the air. The Philippine Embassy said it would continue reminding all parties to avoid actions that could escalate tensions, particularly if found trespassing within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Company Expands Production Founded six years ago and based in San Diego, California, Seasats has raised more than $40 million in funding. The company has also received more than $100 million in U.S. government contracts, including an $89.2 million U.S. Navy production award and a $24 million award under the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies program. In addition to the Lightfish, Seasats is preparing to begin production of its larger Quickfish autonomous surface vessel, while a third platform, Heavyfish, remains in the design phase.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 11:33:00
World
TOKYO — Japan's Ministry of Defense announced on July 30 that the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has successfully conducted its first live-fire test of a U.S.-made Tomahawk cruise missile from the Aegis guided-missile destroyer JS Chokai (DDG-176), marking a major step in the country's efforts to strengthen its stand-off strike capability. The live-fire test was carried out on July 29 (Japan time) in the Pacific Ocean while JS Chokai was deployed to the United States as part of Japan's Tomahawk acquisition and training program. The U.S. Navy supported the event by providing the test range, monitoring the surrounding airspace and waters, and assisting with test planning. Japanese officials emphasized that the missile launch was conducted by the JMSDF crew. The successful launch makes Japan the third country outside the United States, after Australia and the Netherlands, to fire a Tomahawk missile from a surface combatant. It is also the fourth country outside the United States to launch the missile overall, following the United Kingdom, which operates Tomahawks from submarines. Test Verified Launch Procedures and Missile Flight Officials from Japan's Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) said the test confirmed that JS Chokai and its crew successfully completed the full launch sequence, including all required operational procedures. The test also verified the missile's flight to its designated target. ATLA did not disclose several operational details, citing coordination with the U.S. Navy and the need to protect Japan's defense capabilities. The agency withheld information including the precise test location beyond the Pacific Ocean, the type of target used, the missile's flight range, guidance procedures, the number of missiles launched, and whether the missile was a Block IV or Block V Tomahawk. Months of Preparation Before the Launch Japan's Ministry of Defense announced in March 2026 that JS Chokai had been modified to operate Tomahawk cruise missiles. Officials said the months leading up to the live-fire test were used to verify the newly installed equipment and train the ship's crew in launch procedures. At the time of the announcement, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi said Japan's stand-off defense capability is intended to ensure that any potential adversary understands that attacks against Japan by naval vessels, amphibious forces, or other means can be effectively countered. Following the completion of its deployment in the United States, JS Chokai is expected to return to its homeport in Sasebo around September 2026. Officials declined to say when the Tomahawk capability will officially enter operational service, stating that releasing such information could reveal details about Japan's defense readiness. No Additional Live-Fire Tests Planned ATLA officials said Japan currently has no plans to conduct similar live-fire tests on the other JMSDF Aegis destroyers that are being upgraded to operate Tomahawk missiles. According to the agency, additional shipboard firing tests are not considered necessary because the Mk 41 Vertical Launching System and Tomahawk launch equipment already have a long operational record with the U.S. Navy. Officials said the successful test aboard JS Chokai confirmed the integration of the Tomahawk weapon system with Japan's combat system. Upgrades Planned for Five Aegis Destroyers Japan has allocated approximately 113.6 billion yen (about $694 million) through fiscal year 2026 to equip five of its eight JMSDF Aegis destroyers with Tomahawk launch capability. The ships are: JS Chokai JS Kirishima JS Haguro JS Myoko JS Atago Modification work on Haguro and Kirishima began during fiscal year 2025. Contracts for the required equipment for Atago and Myoko have already been awarded, with modification work scheduled to begin during fiscal year 2026. Funding for upgrades to the remaining three Aegis destroyers will be considered from fiscal year 2027 onward, although officials said it is too early to estimate the cost. Japan is also building two Aegis System Equipped Vessels (ASEVs) scheduled to enter service in fiscal years 2027 and 2028. While the vessels are intended to operate Tomahawk missiles in the future, ministry officials said they are not expected to have Tomahawk launch capability when they first enter service. Tomahawk Procurement Program Remains on Schedule Japan plans to acquire up to 400 Tomahawk cruise missiles through the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program at a total cost of approximately 169.4 billion yen (about $1.03 billion). The procurement schedule remains unchanged: Up to 200 Block IV missiles are scheduled for delivery between fiscal years 2025 and 2027. Up to 200 Block V missiles are scheduled for delivery between fiscal years 2026 and 2027. ATLA confirmed that deliveries began during fiscal year 2025, but officials declined to disclose how many missiles have been delivered or provide a detailed delivery timeline, citing operational security. They stated that the acquisition program remains on schedule. Officials also confirmed that Japan does not plan to purchase more than the approved 400 Tomahawk missiles. Future expansion of Japan's stand-off strike capability is expected to rely primarily on domestically developed long-range missiles currently under development. The Ministry of Defense said it announced the successful test as part of its policy of informing taxpayers about the progress of major defense programs funded with public money. Once the current modification program is completed, five of the JMSDF's eight Aegis destroyers will be equipped with Tomahawk launch capability, while upgrades for the remaining three ships are expected to be considered under future budgets. The Tomahawk is a long-range, subsonic cruise missile with a range of more than 1,600 kilometers. Australia conducted its first surface-ship Tomahawk launch from HMAS Brisbane in December 2024, while the Netherlands carried out its first launch from HNLMS De Ruyter in March 2025.
Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 11:18:24Search
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