World
Washington/Taipei : The United States has intensified its naval posture in the Western Pacific with the deployment of two aircraft carriers and an amphibious assault ship amid China’s largest live-fire military exercises near Taiwan. The moves reflect escalating tensions in the Taiwan Strait, with Washington signaling its commitment to maintaining freedom of navigation and supporting regional security amid Beijing’s growing military assertiveness. China’s “Justice Mission 2025” drills — spanning multiple designated zones encircling Taiwan — have involved extensive live-fire exercises, simulated blockades of key ports, and combined sea-air operations. Taiwanese authorities reported disruptions to international flights and maintained elevated alert levels as missiles, warships and fighter aircraft operated in waters and airspace around the island. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) described the maneuvers as a stern warning against “external interference” and a necessary action to safeguard national sovereignty and unity. China’s military activity followed the recent approval of a record U.S. arms package to Taiwan, including missiles, drones and artillery systems — a move denounced by Beijing as provocative. U.S. Naval Deployment: Carriers and Amphibious Power According to fleet-tracking data and defense reports, the U.S. Navy currently has two aircraft carriers operating in the Western Pacific: USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) — A Nimitz-class carrier that recently transited from Guam through the Philippine Sea into the South China Sea, conducting routine operations and integrating with allied maritime forces. USS George Washington (CVN-73) — Forward-deployed at Yokosuka, Japan, and maintaining presence in the wider Pacific amid regional tensions. Both carriers serve as flagship elements of their respective carrier strike groups, bringing significant air power, surveillance, and strike capabilities to the region. Nuclear-powered and equipped with a full complement of fighter aircraft, early warning planes and support helicopters, these carriers are central to U.S. force projection in the Indo-Pacific. In addition to the carriers, the U.S. amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli has been active in the vicinity, operating with embarked F-35B Lightning II jets and supporting extended maritime operations. Tripoli’s presence enhances the U.S. capability to launch aviation and expeditionary missions, underscoring multidomain readiness amid rising tensions. Strategic Implications and Regional Responses The concurrent deployment of two U.S. carriers represents one of the most robust American naval postures in the region in recent years. Analysts view the strengthened presence as designed to deter further escalation and reassure allies such as Japan, South Korea, the Philippines and Taiwan of continued U.S. commitment to regional stability. For its part, Taiwan has maintained heightened defensive readiness, conducting rapid-response drills and monitoring PLA movements with coast guard and military forces. The island’s leadership has condemned Beijing’s drills as intolerable provocations threatening peace in the region. Beijing, however, insists the exercises were a demonstration of integrated combat capability and a direct counter to what it casts as separatist movements and foreign interference. Senior Chinese officials have reiterated the goal of reunification with Taiwan, framing the operations within broader national security objectives. Global Repercussions and Future Outlook The standoff around Taiwan is drawing international scrutiny as the PLA’s extensive live-fire exercises and U.S. naval deployments contribute to heightened strategic competition in East Asia. Allies within the Quad grouping — the United States, Japan, Australia and India — have also discussed regional security concerns, signaling a broad diplomatic response to China’s military expansion. Defense experts caution that sustained military posturing, if not managed through diplomatic channels, could increase the risk of miscalculation. With China’s drills described as among the largest to date and U.S. carriers showcasing operational reach, the Taiwan Strait remains a focal point of potential flashpoints in the coming months. As the new year begins, Washington and Beijing face mounting pressure to navigate the delicate balance between deterrence and escalation, with far-reaching implications for Indo-Pacific security and the broader international order
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-31 14:23:41
World
Washington / Abu Dhabi : Lockheed Martin has secured a $142.6 million contract modification from the United States government to continue long-term sustainment support for the United Arab Emirates’ Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile defence system, reinforcing Washington’s commitment to strengthening integrated air and missile defence capabilities among key Gulf partners. The award, issued under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme, raises the total value of the overarching THAAD sustainment contract to $876.7 million. The contract is being administered by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) from Huntsville, Alabama, under contract number HQ0147-19-C-5001, with all funds fully obligated at the time of award. Sustainment of a Critical Missile Shield The latest modification ensures continued operational readiness of the UAE’s two THAAD batteries, which form the upper tier of the country’s layered missile defence architecture. The scope of work includes logistics and supply chain support, engineering and technical services, hardware and software sustainment, missile and ground system repair, training support, hardware-in-the-loop testing, missile field surveillance, and country-specific engineering enhancements tailored to Emirati operational requirements. THAAD is designed to intercept and destroy short-, medium-, and intermediate-range ballistic missiles during the terminal phase of flight using hit-to-kill kinetic interceptors, providing protection over wide areas and complementing lower-tier systems such as Patriot. Strategic Importance for the Gulf The UAE was the first international customer to acquire THAAD, with deliveries beginning in 2015, marking a major milestone in U.S. missile defence exports. Since then, the system has become a cornerstone of Emirati airspace defence amid a regional environment characterised by growing ballistic and cruise missile proliferation. Defence analysts view the sustainment award as a signal of deepening U.S.–UAE strategic alignment, particularly as Gulf states prioritise integrated, networked missile defence to counter evolving aerial threats. Continued investment in sustainment reflects the reality that high-end missile defence systems require constant technical support and upgrades to remain effective. Industrial and Operational Footprint Work under the contract will be carried out across multiple U.S. locations — including Alabama, Texas, Arkansas, and California — as well as at operational sites in the UAE. While Lockheed Martin has not issued a public statement on the award, the programme is expected to support skilled jobs and specialised defence manufacturing and sustainment capabilities within the U.S. industrial base. Long-Term Defence Cooperation The contract modification underscores the long-term nature of missile defence partnerships under the FMS framework, where sustainment, training, and lifecycle support often extend well beyond initial system delivery. As missile threats in the Middle East continue to evolve, systems like THAAD are expected to remain central to regional deterrence and air defence planning. With the latest $142.6 million award, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. government reaffirm their commitment to ensuring that the UAE’s THAAD system remains fully mission-capable, technologically current, and operationally resilient for years to come.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-31 14:00:35
India
New Delhi | Visakhapatnam : State-owned Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) has been selected as the L-1 (lowest bidder) for a Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) project led by the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL), Visakhapatnam, aimed at designing and developing an Aquatic-Aerial System—a hybrid platform that can operate both as an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and an unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV). According to bid-related disclosures circulating in the defence ecosystem, BDL cleared the technical evaluation alongside AquaAirX (Aquaarix) Autonomous Systems, after which BDL emerged as L-1 with a winning bid of INR 69,15,272. A UAV-cum-UUV with “Seamless Transition” The Aquatic-Aerial System is being positioned as an unmanned platform with the unique ability to transition between flying in air and operating underwater, enabling mission profiles that could combine rapid aerial repositioning with covert underwater activity—an increasingly sought-after capability for modern maritime and coastal operations. Open tender documents linked to the NSTL procurement describe the requirement as the “Design, Development and supply of Aquatic-Aerial System” under a GeM Contract, indicating the programme is being executed through India’s government e-marketplace procurement route. Key Contract Terms: 14-Month Delivery and Milestone Payments The commercial terms specify a delivery period of 14 months from the date of the GeM Contract/Order, suggesting the first full system could be ready within just over a year of contract activation, subject to development and acceptance trials. Payments are structured across four milestones, with 20% released after completion of early phases, followed by 30%, 30%, and a final 20% after the concluding phase and acceptance—highlighting that the programme is being monitored through phased progress gates rather than a single end-stage payout. NSTL to Provide High-Value Sensors as “Free Cost Material” A notable element of the NSTL commercial package is that the lab is set to provide crucial payloads as Free Cost Material (FCM) for integration during development. The listed items include an Imaging SONAR-FLS (Forward Looking Sonar), Side Scan SONAR, a Doppler Velocity Logger (DVL), and an Acoustic Modem, with the document indicating an aggregate FCM value of Rs. 90,00,000. This approach signals NSTL’s intent to ensure the prototype is validated with serious underwater navigation and sensing hardware, while pushing the industry partner to focus on vehicle design, integration, controls, and the multi-medium transition challenge. Warranty, Downtime Cap, and Performance Security The contract package also builds in sustainment obligations. It specifies a 12-month warranty from final acceptance, with a maximum downtime cap of 15 days during the warranty window, and one additional year of product support after warranty expiry. For performance security, the seller is required to furnish an ePBG (bank guarantee) of 5% of the contract value, valid until 60 days beyond completion of contractual obligations including warranty—standard practice for sensitive defence deliveries. Why BDL and NSTL Pairing Matters NSTL is DRDO’s key naval lab for underwater systems and associated technologies, while BDL has an established production footprint across missiles and underwater weapons. BDL’s own corporate profile notes that it manufactures underwater weapons developed with DRDO support, including systems originating from NSTL—making the pairing operationally familiar for both sides. The selection also comes as India accelerates efforts around autonomy in the maritime domain, where DRDO’s NSTL has been active in multiple underwater technology streams in parallel, reflecting a broader push toward indigenous unmanned systems for surveillance and security. What Comes Next With BDL now positioned to collaborate with NSTL/DRDO on the design and development cycle, the next milestones will likely revolve around platform architecture finalisation, systems integration with NSTL-supplied sensors, and controlled demonstrations of the most difficult requirement: reliable air-to-water and water-to-air transition while maintaining command, control, and mission continuity.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-31 13:48:05
World
San Diego / Europe : Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. has successfully completed the first Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) of its EPOCH Command and Control (C2) software in collaboration with Airbus Defence and Space, marking a critical milestone in the deployment of Airbus’s OneSat next-generation software-defined satellite platform. The successful test confirms that EPOCH can fully support OneSat’s dynamic in-orbit reconfiguration capability, enabling satellite operators to rapidly reshape coverage, bandwidth, and mission profiles after launch. This capability represents a fundamental shift away from traditional fixed-payload satellites toward flexible, software-defined space systems. Enabling Next-Generation Software-Defined Satellites Unlike conventional satellites with static configurations, the OneSat platform is designed for frequent software updates, greater onboard autonomy, and long-term mission adaptability. While this architecture significantly enhances operational flexibility and commercial responsiveness, it also increases the complexity of ground command and control operations. To address these challenges, Kratos integrated new advanced capabilities into a recent EPOCH software release, specifically engineered to operate in tandem with OneSat’s highly dynamic architecture. These upgrades allow the ground system to manage real-time mission reconfiguration, autonomous satellite behavior, and rapid operational changes while maintaining high levels of safety, redundancy, and reliability. Factory Acceptance Test Confirms Operational Readiness During the Factory Acceptance Test, joint engineering teams from Kratos and Airbus conducted extensive system validation. The test verified that EPOCH’s hardware and software complied with all safety, redundancy, and performance requirements, successfully communicated with a simulated OneSat satellite, and functioned exactly as designed across multiple operational scenarios. Upon completion, the system achieved formal acceptance by Airbus, confirming its readiness for operational deployment. Maurizio Scotta, President of Kratos Communications, stated that the successful milestone reflects the close collaboration between the two companies. He emphasized that the flexibility of the EPOCH system architecture, combined with the deep expertise of Kratos personnel, enables Airbus to unlock the full operational potential of the OneSat platform, delivering faster reconfiguration, smarter operations, and greater mission agility for customers. Airbus Signals Confidence Ahead of Launch Elodie Viau, Senior Vice President of Telecommunication and Navigation at Airbus Defence and Space, said the achievement provides full confidence in the reliability and performance of the EPOCH command and control system that will operate OneSat satellites in orbit. She described the milestone as a key step forward as Airbus prepares for upcoming launches and continues to deliver innovative software-defined satellite solutions to commercial and government operators worldwide. Strategic Impact on the Global Space Sector With more than 20 years of experience in satellite command and control systems, Kratos positions EPOCH as a cornerstone technology for managing next-generation space assets. The successful validation with OneSat underscores a broader industry transition toward software-defined satellite constellations, where ground systems must evolve to keep pace with autonomous, reconfigurable, and mission-adaptive spacecraft. As demand grows for greater flexibility, resilience, and responsiveness in space operations, the successful integration of Kratos EPOCH with Airbus OneSat places both companies at the forefront of the software-defined space revolution, reinforcing the critical role of advanced ground control software in shaping the future of satellite operations.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-31 13:33:32
India
Chandipur (Odisha): India on Tuesday successfully carried out a salvo launch of two Pralay surface-to-surface missiles in quick succession from the same launcher at the Integrated Test Range (ITR), Chandipur, underscoring the growing maturity of the country’s conventional strike missile capabilities. The test was conducted by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) as part of User Evaluation Trials, a critical phase preceding operational induction. According to officials, both missiles were launched in rapid sequence from a road-mobile, canisterised launcher and precisely followed their intended trajectories, successfully meeting all mission objectives. The salvo firing validated not only the missile’s performance but also the reliability of the launcher, command systems and launch crew procedures under realistic operational conditions. Designed for Rapid Conventional Strike The Pralay missile is an indigenously developed, solid-propellant, quasi-ballistic missile with a range between 150 km and 500 km. It has been specifically designed for rapid conventional deep-strike missions, enabling Indian forces to neutralise critical enemy assets without crossing the nuclear threshold. Pralay’s quasi-ballistic trajectory and high manoeuvrability make it difficult to intercept, while its circular error probable (CEP) of less than 10 metres places it among the most accurate missiles in its class. The system is capable of engaging time-sensitive and high-value targets, including enemy air bases, command and control centres, logistics hubs and missile infrastructure, particularly across India’s northern and western fronts. Advanced Guidance and Flexible Warhead Options The missile employs state-of-the-art guidance and navigation systems, combining inertial navigation with advanced correction mechanisms to maintain precision throughout its flight. Designed with operational flexibility in mind, Pralay can carry multiple types of conventional warheads, allowing it to be tailored for different target sets such as hardened structures, area targets or infrastructure nodes. Its road-mobile and canisterised configuration significantly enhances survivability, enabling quick deployment, shoot-and-scoot operations and ease of transportation across varied terrain. A Truly Indigenous Programme The Pralay missile has been developed by Research Centre Imarat (RCI), Hyderabad, in collaboration with several DRDO laboratories, including the Defence Research and Development Laboratory, Advanced Systems Laboratory, Armament Research and Development Establishment, High Energy Materials Research Laboratory, Defence Metallurgical Research Laboratory, Terminal Ballistics Research Laboratory, Research & Development Establishment (Engineers), and the Integrated Test Range. The missile’s development-cum-production partners, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), integrated the weapon system for the present trials. Representatives from the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force, along with senior DRDO scientists and industry partners, witnessed the tests. Leadership Reactions and Induction Outlook Rajnath Singh, Raksha Mantri, congratulated DRDO, the Indian Army, the Indian Air Force, defence public sector undertakings and industry partners on the successful launches, stating that the salvo firing in quick succession establishes the reliability and operational readiness of the Pralay missile system. Secretary, Department of Defence R&D and Chairman DRDO, Samir V Kamat, described the achievement as a clear indicator of imminent induction, noting that the successful user evaluation trials demonstrate the system’s readiness for deployment with the armed forces. The 2025 User Trials Track Pralay’s user evaluation campaign has included two consecutive flight-tests earlier in July 2025 from Dr APJ Abdul Kalam Island, aimed at validating minimum and maximum range performance, with the Ministry stating the missiles achieved “pin-point accuracy” and all subsystems performed as expected. The December 31, 2025 event builds on that track by demonstrating rapid-fire operational handling from a single launcher—an important step for field deployment concepts. Strategic Significance With the successful salvo launch from a single launcher, Pralay strengthens India’s conventional deterrence posture, filling a critical capability gap between long-range artillery and strategic missile systems. As induction draws closer, the missile is expected to become a key pillar of India’s precision strike arsenal, providing commanders with a fast, accurate and survivable option for battlefield and theatre-level operations.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-31 13:15:51
World
BERLIN/WASHINGTON : The United States is under growing pressure to accelerate its planned deployment of land-based, long-range strike weapons to Germany after Russia and Belarus showcased the arrival of the nuclear-capable “Oreshnik” hypersonic missile system on Belarusian soil — a move that dramatically compresses warning times for parts of NATO’s eastern flank and reinforces Moscow’s message that it can escalate faster than Western capitals can deliberate. While Washington and Berlin have not publicly announced a revised schedule, the baseline plan already envisions U.S. Army “episodic deployments” of a package that includes Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles, SM-6 missiles, and a developmental hypersonic weapon widely referred to as the Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon (LRHW) / “Dark Eagle”, starting in 2026. The Trigger: Oreshnik Footage, a Former Airbase, and a New Forward Posture On December 30, 2025, Belarus released footage showing Oreshnik launchers being placed on combat duty, with President Alexander Lukashenko confirming the system’s presence in-country. Independent analysts cited in reporting said indicators point to a former airbase near Krichev in eastern Belarus as a likely deployment site. Russia has cast Oreshnik as exceptionally hard to stop, with reporting describing speeds over Mach 10 and a range in the 5,000 km to 5,500 km class, depending on the public claim or assessment — distances that place large parts of Europe within reach from Belarus. Russia has also spoken of stationing up to 10 systems there, underscoring the scale of the messaging effort as much as the military effect. What the U.S. Package for Germany Includes The U.S.–Germany plan was formally announced on July 10, 2024, on the sidelines of the NATO summit in Washington. The joint statement said the U.S. would begin 2026 “episodic deployments” of the long-range fires capabilities associated with its Multi-Domain Task Force construct, as groundwork for “enduring stationing” later. When fully developed, the deployed toolkit is expected to include three headline systems. First is Tomahawk, a long-range land-attack cruise missile adapted for ground launch as part of the U.S. Army’s mid-range capability architecture. Second is SM-6, a multi-mission missile better known as a naval weapon but now being positioned as a land-based option for air defense and maritime/land strike roles under the same family of launch systems tied to U.S. Army long-range fires. Third is the LRHW / “Dark Eagle” — the developmental hypersonic element of the 2026 package. Open-source technical descriptions commonly cite a maximum speed around Mach 17 and a range on the order of 1,725 miles (2,775 km) for the weapon concept as presented publicly. The Launchers and the Math Behind “Salvo” Capacity A key enabling system for the non-hypersonic portion of this approach is the U.S. Army’s Typhon launcher (also referred to in analysis as a Mid-Range Capability system), designed to fire Tomahawk and SM-6 from ground-based launchers. One NATO-region assessment describes a Typhon battery as four launchers capable of firing up to 16 missiles in a single collective salvo (a mix of Tomahawks and SM-6s), a detail that helps explain why planners view the system as more than symbolic: it is designed for repeatable, mobile, land-based strike at scale. Is the Pentagon “Fast-Tracking” the Move? Claims that the Pentagon is “fast-tracking” missile deployments to Germany have circulated in OSINT and social media commentary in recent days, largely framed as a response to the Belarus/Oreshnik developments. However, the most authoritative public record still points to the previously announced 2026 start for episodic deployments, and no official U.S. or German statement has yet confirmed a formally accelerated timeline. What has changed is the strategic context. Russia’s Belarus deployment is being interpreted by multiple observers as an attempt to deter NATO support for Ukraine and to complicate Western basing decisions — especially as arms control timelines tighten and European capitals debate how much risk they can absorb. Why Germany Matters — and Why the U.S. Needs Allies The 2024 announcement tied the deployments to broader European integrated deterrence, implicitly acknowledging that geography, access, and allied infrastructure are decisive in any contest of long-range fires. That reality is now sharper: Belarus offers Russia a more forward location for advanced missiles, while Germany offers the United States the central logistics, command connectivity, and political weight to field countervailing capabilities credibly inside NATO’s core. Whether Washington keeps to 2026 or tries to compress preparations, the direction of travel is the same — more land-based long-range strike in Europe, more hypersonic signaling from Moscow, and less room for ambiguity about how dependent the U.S. is on allied territory when the strategic clock speeds up.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 17:21:54
India
New Delhi : India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) on Tuesday signed a ₹1,896 crore (approximately $210 million) contract with WASS Submarine Systems S.R.L., Italy, for the procurement and integration of 48 Heavy Weight Torpedoes (HWTs) for the Indian Navy’s Kalvari-class (Project-75 / P-75) submarines, a move aimed at significantly sharpening the underwater combat punch of the Navy’s frontline conventional submarine force. The agreement was inked at South Block, New Delhi, in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, with the MoD stating that the acquisition will enhance the combat capability of the Navy’s six Kalvari-class submarines. What the Contract Covers According to the government release, the contract includes the procurement and full integration of 48 heavyweight torpedoes, along with associated equipment, for the Kalvari-class submarines—India’s Scorpène-derivative diesel-electric attack boats built at Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) in partnership with France’s Naval Group. The scope of the deal encompasses weapon integration with onboard combat systems, ensuring compatibility with the submarines’ fire-control, sensor and combat management architecture, thereby enabling full operational employment of the torpedoes. The MoD has placed the agreement within its broader capital procurement momentum for FY 2025–26, stating that it has signed capital acquisition contracts worth ₹1,82,492 crore for Armed Forces modernisation so far in the current financial year. Delivery Timeline: April 2028 to Early 2030 The MoD has outlined a clearly defined delivery schedule, with torpedo deliveries set to commence from April 2028 and conclude by early 2030. The induction will be carried out in a phased manner, aligned with submarine availability for installation, harbour trials, sea trials and final acceptance. This timeline is intended to allow smooth integration, crew familiarisation and operational validation across the entire Kalvari-class fleet. Why It Matters for Project-75 The Kalvari-class submarines—INS Kalvari, INS Khanderi, INS Karanj, INS Vela, INS Vagir and INS Vagsheer—represent the Indian Navy’s most modern conventional submarine line currently in service. These boats are tasked with sea-denial operations, anti-surface warfare (ASuW), anti-submarine warfare (ASW), intelligence gathering and surveillance in the Indian Ocean Region. Heavyweight torpedoes constitute a submarine’s primary close-in and beyond-visual-range kill weapon against both enemy surface combatants and submarines. The MoD’s decision therefore directly strengthens the Navy’s underwater lethality and deterrence, even as India continues to pursue long-term indigenous solutions and future upgrades for the class. About WASS and the Likely Torpedo Family WASS Submarine Systems is a specialised Italian firm focused on underwater weapons, torpedoes and countermeasure systems. The company is now controlled by Fincantieri, following the acquisition of the underwater armaments and systems business line from Leonardo and its consolidation into the WASS entity. While the MoD has described the acquisition generically as Heavy Weight Torpedoes, the widely reported contender for the Kalvari-class requirement has been the Black Shark heavyweight torpedo family. Publicly available material describes BLACK SHARK as a 21-inch (533-mm) heavyweight torpedo, featuring wire-guidance and acoustic self-homing. According to earlier media reports, the torpedo is assessed to offer a range of around 50 km, a top speed of about 50 knots, and a high-explosive warhead weighing roughly 350 kg, making it suitable for long-range, high-lethality submarine engagements. A Long-Running Gap-Closure Effort India’s effort to equip its Scorpène/Kalvari-class submarines with modern heavyweight torpedoes has been closely tracked for several years. During this period, the Indian Navy explored multiple pathways, including imports, interim arrangements, upgrades and indigenous integration, to maintain operational readiness. The latest contract is positioned as a critical gap-closure and combat capability enhancement for the fully operational six-boat Kalvari-class, ensuring that the submarines mature into full-spectrum, mission-ready underwater combat platforms over the coming decade.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 17:14:21
World
France : France has signed a major defence procurement contract with Saab for the acquisition of two GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft, marking a significant upgrade to the country’s long-range surveillance and command-and-control capabilities. The agreement was concluded with France’s defence procurement authority, the Direction générale de l’armement (DGA), and is valued at approximately SEK 12.3 billion. According to Saab, the contract covers not only the aircraft themselves but also ground-based support equipment, comprehensive training programmes, and long-term logistical and technical support. Deliveries of the two GlobalEye platforms are scheduled to take place between 2029 and 2032. The agreement further includes an option for the DGA to procure two additional aircraft, potentially doubling France’s GlobalEye fleet in the next decade. Commenting on the development, Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, said the order highlights the strength of the strategic partnership between France and Sweden. He stated that France’s selection of GlobalEye represents an investment in a highly advanced AEW&C capability and reinforces national sovereignty while contributing to broader European security. With this decision, both France and Sweden will operate the same airborne early warning platform. The GlobalEye system is designed as a multi-domain surveillance and command solution, capable of detecting and tracking threats across air, sea, and land environments. The platform integrates a combination of active and passive sensors, enabling long-range detection, identification, and tracking of a wide spectrum of targets, including aircraft, surface vessels, and low-observable threats. A defining feature of GlobalEye is its ability to fuse data from multiple sensors into a single, real-time operational picture. This information can be shared with air force, army, and naval units, significantly improving situational awareness and enabling earlier warning of potential threats. Such capabilities are increasingly critical as modern battlefields become more complex and contested, with faster decision-making and cross-domain coordination playing a decisive role. For France, the acquisition aligns with its broader defence modernisation efforts and its emphasis on strategic autonomy, high-end capabilities, and interoperability with European and allied forces. The GlobalEye aircraft are expected to complement existing airborne surveillance assets while offering extended range, endurance, and multi-domain coverage. The contract also strengthens Saab’s footprint in the European defence market, underlining growing demand for advanced airborne early warning solutions amid a changing security environment. As deliveries begin in 2029 and continue through 2032, the GlobalEye programme is set to become a central pillar of France’s future air surveillance and battle-management architecture, while further deepening defence cooperation between Paris and Stockholm.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 17:05:36
World
WASHINGTON, D.C: The U.S. Army is poised to accelerate development of its next-generation mechanized combat vehicle after the Department of Defense unveiled its Fiscal Year (FY) 2026 budget request, allocating approximately $386.4 million to the XM30 Combat Vehicle program. The investment sustains momentum for the long-planned Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle replacement and moves the program deeper into detailed engineering and prototype efforts without yet committing to full-scale production. From Concept to Prototype The XM30 Combat Vehicle, previously known as the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV), represents the Army’s most ambitious effort in decades to modernize its armored forces and replace the aging M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle, which has been in service since 1981. Under the FY 2026 budget blueprint, funding will support the transition from the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) to the Critical Design Review (CDR) phase. This shift marks a milestone in moving from abstract design toward the construction of physical prototypes and integrated systems testing. Army leaders have framed this stage as essential for validating vehicle architecture, survivability suites, and digital systems that will define the XM30’s battlefield effectiveness. Both industry competitors — General Dynamics Land Systems, with its Griffin III-based platform, and American Rheinmetall Vehicles, offering a variant based on the Rheinmetall KF41 Lynx — are under firm-fixed-price contracts supporting system development and demonstration. The Army’s continued investment in dual pathways preserves competitive tension and technical comparison ahead of a future selection decision. A Strategic Pivot for Army Modernization The XM30 program is part of the broader Next Generation Combat Vehicle (NGCV) portfolio, one of several key modernization priorities that also includes the new M1E3 Abrams main battle tank. Unlike previous replacement efforts that faltered under technical and budgetary challenges, the XM30 initiative leverages an open systems architecture and digital engineering tools to enable rapid upgrades as technologies evolve. According to Congressional Research Service documentation, the XM30 is being acquired through a five-phase approach, starting with market research and advancing through concept and detailed design, prototype build and test, and ultimately limited production. The platform is designed as an optionally manned vehicle, meaning it can operate with an onboard crew or with remote control, depending on mission requirements — a significant leap in tactical flexibility. Technical Aspirations and Future Capabilities The XM30 is expected to deliver decisive lethality on the modern battlefield with advanced sensors, robust troop protection, and enhanced situational awareness. Hybrid-electric propulsion is a core program requirement, offering improved fuel efficiency, reduced thermal signature, and support for silent watch operations. Digital backbone architecture and modular systems are intended to future-proof the vehicle against emerging threats, including integration with unmanned systems and AI-enabled targeting solutions. While the Army has not finalized exact production numbers or dates, planning documents indicate that prototype fabrication and system trials could accelerate in 2027, with a Milestone C decision — the formal authorization to enter low-rate initial production — targeted for early FY 2028. Balancing Legacy and Innovation Despite the XM30’s progress, the Bradley family of vehicles will remain in service for years to come. Modernized Bradley variants, such as the M2A4E1 equipped with improved powerplants and active protection systems, will continue to support Army formations while XM30 prototypes are tested and matured. The FY 2026 investment in the XM30 program underscores the Pentagon’s commitment to transforming ground combat capabilities in the face of evolving global threats. By advancing detailed design and prototyping efforts, the Army aims to field a vehicle that not only replaces the Bradley but reshapes infantry maneuver warfare for the decades ahead.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 16:59:59
India
New Delhi: In a significant boost to India’s indigenous small-arms capability and the Atmanirbhar Bharat defence manufacturing push, Bharat Forge Limited on Tuesday announced that the Ministry of Defence has awarded the company a ₹1,661.9 crore contract for the supply of 255,128 Close Quarter Battle (CQB) Carbines to the Indian Army. The contract, one of the largest domestic orders for infantry small arms in recent years, is scheduled to be executed over a five-year period, marking a decisive shift away from imports toward Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured (IDDM) weapon systems. A Fully Indigenous Carbine for Modern Battlefields The 5.56×45 mm CQB Carbine has been jointly developed by the Armament Research & Development Establishment (ARDE)—a key laboratory under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)—in partnership with Bharat Forge. Manufacturing will be undertaken by Bharat Forge and its wholly owned defence subsidiary, Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL). Designed specifically to address the Indian Army’s operational requirements in urban warfare, counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations, the CQB Carbine fills a long-standing capability gap where standard assault rifles are often unwieldy due to their length and weight. Why the CQB Carbine Matters Modern combat scenarios increasingly demand weapons that offer high lethality, rapid handling and superior manoeuvrability in confined spaces such as buildings, narrow streets and dense terrain. The CQB Carbine’s compact form factor allows soldiers to react faster during room interventions, building clearances and close-range engagements, while still retaining adequate firepower. According to DRDO, the weapon weighs approximately 3.3 kilograms, has an effective firing range of up to 200 metres, and is chambered for the NATO-standard 5.56×45 mm calibre. Importantly, it is capable of firing both NATO-standard ammunition and INSAS rounds, providing critical logistical flexibility for frontline units. Industry–DRDO Synergy Highlighted Speaking earlier about the programme, Prateek Kishore, Scientist and Director General of Armament & Combat Engineering Systems (ACE) at DRDO, described the CQB Carbine as a model example of successful collaboration between India’s defence R&D ecosystem and private industry. “This weapon has been designed by DRDO’s ARDE, Pune, and is being manufactured by Bharat Forge,” Kishore had said. “It represents full synergy between the development agency and the manufacturing partner, which has directly contributed to the successful realisation of this system. It is an extremely proud moment not just for DRDO, but for the country as a whole.” Kishore added that the carbine is a highly potent weapon for infantry soldiers, noting that its ability to accommodate multiple ammunition types places it in a distinct operational category among contemporary small arms. Aligned with Atmanirbhar Bharat In an official statement, Bharat Forge underlined that the contract aligns closely with the government’s strategic objective of building a self-reliant defence industrial base. “Aligned with the Atmanirbhar Bharat mission, we—BFL and our defence subsidiary Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited—remain dedicated to equipping the Indian Armed Forces with ‘Made in India’ advanced defence equipment and platforms,” the company said. Strengthening Infantry Firepower Once inducted at scale, the 255,128 CQB Carbines are expected to significantly enhance the close-combat effectiveness of Indian Army infantry units, particularly those deployed in urban centres, counter-terror grids and high-risk internal security environments. The deal also reinforces confidence in India’s private defence manufacturers and signals a broader transformation in procurement policy—where large-volume, frontline weapons are increasingly sourced from domestic industry, reducing dependence on foreign suppliers while strengthening national security and industrial resilience.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 16:03:04
World
Washington / Caracas: The United States has quietly carried out what appears to be its first known drone strike inside Venezuela, targeting a coastal port facility believed to be linked to drug-trafficking networks, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The operation, attributed to the Central Intelligence Agency, marks a significant escalation in Washington’s counter-narcotics posture in the Caribbean region and introduces new diplomatic and legal questions in an already strained U.S.–Venezuela relationship. Sources cited by CNN said the drone strike took place earlier this month against a remote dock facility on Venezuela’s coastline, believed by U.S. authorities to be used as a logistics node for maritime drug shipments. The facility was reportedly associated with the Tren de Aragua, a transnational criminal organization that U.S. officials have increasingly linked to narcotics trafficking and organized crime across the Americas. Conflicting Accounts on Military Involvement Two individuals familiar with the operation told CNN that U.S. Special Operations Forces provided intelligence support, underscoring continued American involvement in counter-drug activities near Venezuelan territory. However, that claim was publicly denied by Col. Allie Weiskopf, a spokesperson for U.S. Special Operations Command, who stated that Special Operations did not support the mission, “to include intel support.” The denial highlights the opaque nature of the operation, with no formal acknowledgment from the Pentagon or the CIA, and no release of imagery, strike footage, or after-action details. Trump Statement Triggers Scrutiny Public attention intensified after Donald Trump made a brief but striking claim on December 29, 2025, saying the United States had “hit” and destroyed a dock or coastal loading area in Venezuela, describing a “major explosion.” The president did not disclose the location, the platform used, the type of munition, or whether the strike was conducted by the U.S. military or another government agency. That statement, coupled with subsequent media reporting, has been interpreted as tacit confirmation of a U.S. lethal action on Venezuelan soil, something Washington has previously avoided even amid years of sanctions, covert pressure, and maritime drug interdictions. Target, Tactics, and Likely Weapons According to CNN’s reporting, the dock was unoccupied at the time of the strike, resulting in no casualties. U.S. officials believed the site was used to store narcotics, refuel boats, and transfer drug consignments onto small vessels for onward shipment through Caribbean trafficking routes. Military analysts note that such remote boat-loading docks present compact, high-value aimpoints, including pier decking, fuel storage, and small craft, making them suitable for precision engagement. A medium-altitude, long-endurance armed drone is considered a plausible platform, given its ability to conduct extended surveillance and strike when a site is clear of civilians. A precision missile, such as a Hellfire-class weapon, would align with the reported level of destruction, with the described “major explosion” potentially caused by secondary fires or fuel ignition rather than the warhead alone. However, U.S. officials have not confirmed the platform or munition used, and all assessments remain informed inference, not verified fact. Legal and Diplomatic Implications The strike represents a sharper and more unilateral turn in U.S. counter-narcotics enforcement. Conducting a covert drone strike inside Venezuela, a country with which the United States has no formal security cooperation, raises questions under international law, particularly regarding sovereignty and the use of force outside active armed conflict zones. Caracas has not issued a detailed public response, but any confirmed U.S. attack could further inflame tensions with Venezuela, whose government has long accused Washington of covert aggression and regime-change operations. A Broader Shift in U.S. Counter-Narcotics Strategy The operation suggests a potential expansion of U.S. drone use beyond traditional theaters such as the Middle East and Africa, into the Western Hemisphere. While the United States has routinely conducted maritime interdictions, surveillance flights, and partner-nation operations in the Caribbean, direct kinetic action inside Venezuela would represent a notable policy shift. For now, the strike remains unacknowledged in official channels, but its implications are significant: a signal that Washington may be prepared to act unilaterally and covertly against perceived drug-trafficking infrastructure, even inside politically hostile states. As more details emerge, the incident is likely to face intense scrutiny from lawmakers, legal experts, and regional governments—testing the boundaries of U.S. counter-narcotics authority in the Americas.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 15:47:10
World
Beijing / Taipei : China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has conducted long-range live-fire rocket launches from its southeastern coast, firing multiple salvos from PCL-191 modular multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) deployed in Fujian province as part of large-scale military exercises dubbed “Justice Mission 2025.” The rockets were launched toward designated maritime zones north of Taiwan, with impacts reported in open ocean waters, sharply escalating already high cross-strait tensions. Video footage released by Chinese state media showed PLA Rocket Force units firing a reported 16 long-range rockets from truck-mounted PCL-191 launchers positioned along the coastline facing Taiwan. Defence analysts note that the PCL-191 (also known as PHL-191) is a modern, modular rocket artillery system capable of firing guided and unguided munitions with ranges sufficient to strike targets across the Taiwan Strait. Chinese military sources also indicated that a CH-4 (Rainbow-4) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was used for reconnaissance, targeting, and battle damage assessment, highlighting the PLA’s growing emphasis on network-centric and joint warfare operations integrating rockets, drones, naval forces, and combat aircraft. Beijing Issues ‘Stern Warning’ In an official statement, the PLA Eastern Theatre Command described the drills as a “stern warning” against “Taiwan independence separatist forces” and external interference, an apparent reference to recent U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. Chinese officials said the exercises were designed to test precision strike capability, joint firepower coordination, and area-denial operations under realistic combat conditions. Military observers say the inclusion of long-range rocket artillery—rather than only ballistic missiles or air power—signals a deliberate attempt by Beijing to demonstrate scalable coercive options that can apply pressure without immediately crossing the threshold into full-scale conflict. Taiwan Condemns ‘Military Intimidation’ Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense strongly condemned the launches, calling them “blatant military intimidation” that undermines regional peace and stability. Taipei confirmed that no rockets struck Taiwanese territory, but said its armed forces were placed on heightened alert and closely tracked the launches using joint intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems. In response, Taiwan publicly underscored the readiness of its own long-range strike capabilities, including U.S.-supplied HIMARS (High Mobility Artillery Rocket System) units. Taiwanese officials noted that these systems are capable of reaching coastal areas of Fujian, reinforcing what Taipei described as a credible deterrence posture. Wider Regional Impact The Justice Mission 2025 drills are among the largest and most complex military exercises conducted by China around Taiwan to date, involving naval vessels, combat aircraft, missile forces, and amphibious units operating across multiple zones. Analysts warn that the scale, frequency, and live-fire nature of such exercises significantly increase the risk of miscalculation or accidental escalation in one of the world’s most sensitive geopolitical flashpoints. As the drills continue, regional and international observers are closely watching for signs of further escalation or de-escalation, with many viewing the rocket launches as a clear message from Beijing that military pressure on Taiwan is becoming more explicit, more integrated, and more routine.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 15:22:48
World
A sharp and unusual public rupture has erupted between Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after a Saudi-led coalition airstrike hit Yemen’s southern port city of Mukalla on Tuesday, December 30, 2025, targeting what Riyadh said was an unauthorised weapons and armored-vehicle shipment linked to UAE-backed southern separatists. According to Reuters and AP, Saudi Arabia framed the incident as a direct national security issue, warning that its security is a “red line” and accusing Abu Dhabi—implicitly and then more directly—of actions that could destabilise the anti-Houthi coalition from within. The strike followed reports of two Emirati ships arriving and unloading cargo that Saudi officials said was destined for the Southern Transitional Council (STC), a powerful separatist movement backed by the UAE. The UAE denied the core allegation, saying it had sent vehicles for its own forces and urged restraint. The “24-Hour” Ultimatum—and a Wider Clampdown The most dramatic escalation came with a 24-hour demand for UAE forces to withdraw from Yemen, issued amid the crisis by the Saudi side and echoed through Yemen’s Saudi-aligned political leadership. Reuters reported that Yemen’s presidential council head, Rashad al-Alimi, cancelled a defence pact with the UAE and accused Abu Dhabi of fuelling internal conflict by empowering the STC. The fallout quickly expanded beyond rhetoric. Reuters reported a 72-hour no-fly zone and a widening ground and sea blockade across Yemeni entry points, underscoring how rapidly the dispute has shifted from political friction to operational pressure. Separate reporting also described emergency measures around Mukalla following the strikes. Why Mukalla Matters: Yemen’s Fractured Anti-Houthi Front Mukalla sits in Yemen’s south, where the war is not just a fight between the Iran-aligned Houthis and the internationally recognised government, but a multi-layered contest among rival anti-Houthi factions. The UAE’s long backing of the STC has repeatedly clashed with Saudi preferences for a unified, Saudi-aligned Yemeni government structure. This week’s escalation is being read by diplomats and analysts as a moment when those contradictions have broken into the open—potentially handing the Houthis a strategic advantage if the anti-Houthi coalition fractures further. If Riyadh and Abu Dhabi Clash, Where Does Pakistan Stand? The Saudi–UAE crisis lands uncomfortably in Islamabad because Pakistan is deeply tied to both capitals, but in different ways—security with Saudi Arabia and financial stabilisation with the UAE, alongside broader Gulf links. Pakistan’s defence relationship with Riyadh has been reinforced recently by a reported Strategic Mutual Defense Agreement (SMDA) signed on September 17, 2025, formalising long-standing military cooperation and signalling that Saudi Arabia views Pakistan as a core security partner. At the same time, the UAE remains a crucial economic backer at moments of acute pressure. Pakistan’s central bank confirmed the UAE rolled over $2 billion in deposits—two $1 billion placements—for another year in January 2025, providing immediate breathing room for Pakistan’s reserves and debt calendar. Islamabad has also pursued wider Emirati economic engagement. Reuters previously reported Pakistan’s prime minister’s office said the UAE had committed $10 billion in investments (with sector details not fully specified at the time), highlighting how Pakistan sees Abu Dhabi not only as a lender but as a potential long-term investor. The Likely Pakistani Playbook: Quiet Diplomacy, No Public “Pick a Side” Given the stakes, Pakistan is unlikely to publicly choose one partner over the other—at least in the near term. Instead, Islamabad’s most realistic strategy is to lean on three familiar tools. First, silence and caution: Pakistan typically avoids amplifying intra-Gulf disputes in public statements, particularly when both sides are essential for external financing and migrant-worker remittances. Second, back-channel reassurance: Pakistan can privately reassure Riyadh that existing defence cooperation remains intact—especially under the post-2025 framework—while simultaneously signalling to Abu Dhabi that Pakistan’s economic partnership and investment facilitation remain separate from Gulf political rivalries. Third, multilateral cover: If the Saudi–UAE rift widens, Pakistan may prefer to position itself behind broader calls for de-escalation—through the UN or regional diplomacy—rather than bilateral alignment that could jeopardise either defence cooperation with Saudi Arabia or vital financial rollovers from the UAE. What Happens Next: A Test of Gulf Cohesion—and Pakistan’s Crisis Diplomacy The immediate question is whether the 24-hour withdrawal demand becomes a stepping stone to negotiation—or a trigger for escalation at sea and in the air around southern Yemen’s ports. The broader question is whether this dispute remains contained to Yemen, or spills into other theatres where Riyadh and Abu Dhabi have diverging interests. For Pakistan, the risk is not only diplomatic embarrassment but material: any prolonged Saudi–UAE confrontation could complicate the very debt rollovers, reserve support, and investment flows that Pakistan relies on to stay afloat—while simultaneously testing the durability of its deepening security alignment with Riyadh.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 14:15:05
World
MOSCOW / KYIV : Russia has accused Ukraine of attempting a large-scale UAV strike on one of President Vladimir Putin’s state residences in northwestern Russia, alleging that 91 long-range drones were launched toward the site and that all were destroyed by Russian air defenses. Ukraine has flatly rejected the allegation, saying Moscow has offered no evidence and warning the claim could be used as a pretext for new Russian attacks, including on Kyiv. What Russia Says Happened Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the alleged incident took place in the early hours of December 29, with drones aimed at a presidential residence in Russia’s Novgorod region—often described in media reports as linked to Putin’s Valdai area retreat. Lavrov called the episode an act of “state terrorism” and said it would force Moscow to reassess its negotiating posture, while still claiming Russia would not abandon the ongoing diplomatic track. Russian state media accounts and secondary reports citing the Russian Defense Ministry provided a more detailed breakdown of interceptions, saying 49 drones were downed over Bryansk, while 18 were intercepted over Novgorod up to 7:00 a.m. Moscow time, followed by another 23 between 7:00 a.m. and 9:00 a.m. Some Ukrainian and independent reporting also flagged inconsistencies in Russia’s public tallies, noting that separate official statements referenced different totals for drones intercepted that night, even as Lavrov publicly cited 91. Ukraine’s Response: “Fabrication” and a Warning of Escalation Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed Russia’s accusation as false, describing it as another round of Russian disinformation intended to undermine diplomacy and justify further strikes. Ukrainian officials and several outlets emphasized that Moscow has not released verifiable evidence—such as imagery, wreckage documentation tied to the alleged flight paths, or independent corroboration—supporting the claim that Putin’s residence was the intended target. Separate reporting noted that residents in the Valdai area reported no visible signs consistent with the dramatic account described by Russian officials, adding to questions around the incident’s verifiability. Lavrov: Retaliation “Targets and Timing” Decided Lavrov’s most consequential statement was his assertion that Russia has already determined the “targets” and “timing” of a retaliatory strike in response to the alleged attack. While he did not name specific locations, the warning landed amid heightened concern in Ukraine about potential renewed strikes on government and command sites in Kyiv and other major cities. Diplomacy in the Background, Uncertainty in the Foreground The claims and counterclaims have surfaced as international efforts to explore a negotiated end to the war remain active, with Russia signaling it could harden its stance while Ukraine argues Moscow is attempting to derail talks through escalation messaging. Reuters reported that it remained unclear whether Putin was at the residence at the time, and independent confirmation of the alleged targeting has not been established publicly. Why This Matters Now If Russia proceeds with a major retaliatory strike, it would further intensify a war already marked by expanding long-range drone operations and reciprocal attacks deep behind front lines. Analysts quoted by Australia’s ABC said the episode—at least as described by Moscow—“made no sense,” underscoring the uncertainty surrounding what occurred and why it was announced in such stark terms. For now, the episode stands as a high-stakes information battle: Moscow framing an alleged 91-drone operation as terrorism against the head of state, and Kyiv calling it a manufactured narrative designed to justify the next wave of strikes
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 13:57:55
India
New Delhi: India has taken a significant step towards building a sovereign, high-end unmanned aerial capability with the Aeronautical Development Establishment (ADE) under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) issuing an Expression of Interest (EoI) to identify an Indian Development-cum-Production Partner (DcPP) for its High Altitude Long Endurance – Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (HALE-RPAS) programme. The EoI formally invites Indian vendors and consortia to participate in the development and subsequent production of what is envisaged as a 6-ton class unmanned aerial vehicle, marking one of the most ambitious indigenous UAV programmes ever undertaken by India. The tender, identified as ADE/MMD/EOI-03/HALE-RPAS/25-26, was issued on December 24, 2025, with a bid submission deadline of January 28, 2026. A pre-bid meeting is scheduled for January 9, 2026, and the opening of bids is planned for January 29, 2026, at ADE, New Thippasandra Post, Bengaluru – 560075. The HALE-RPAS is designed as a long-endurance ISTAR platform—Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance—with an integrated strike capability, enabling both persistent monitoring and precision engagement roles. The programme specifies a maximum all-up weight of approximately 6 tonnes, placing the aircraft in the strategic HALE category. According to the technical outline released with the EoI, the UAV will feature a single turboprop engine mounted in a pusher configuration, a layout chosen to maximise aerodynamic efficiency, reduce sensor interference, and enhance endurance. The aircraft will have an approximate wingspan of 25 metres, optimised for high-aspect-ratio lift required for extended high-altitude operations. The airframe is planned to be predominantly composite, enabling reduced structural weight, improved fatigue life, and enhanced mission adaptability. The platform will incorporate advanced avionics, autonomous flight management systems, secure line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight data links, and full integration with a modern ground control system designed for sustained, multi-mission operations. Operationally, the HALE-RPAS is being designed for missions at around 40,000 feet altitude, enabling wide-area surveillance, persistent target tracking, and improved survivability. The payload architecture is expected to support electro-optical and infrared sensors, synthetic aperture radar, maritime surveillance radar, electronic intelligence suites, and air-to-ground precision weapons, giving the platform a true multi-role ISTAR-plus-strike capability. The programme roadmap clearly defines the Design and Development (D&D) phase, under which five flying aircraft and two complete ground systems will be developed. This phase will include ground testing, flight trials, sensor and weapon integration, and mission system validation. Airworthiness and quality assurance will be conducted under the oversight of Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC) and Directorate General of Aeronautical Quality Assurance (DGAQA), ensuring the HALE-RPAS meets Indian military aviation standards across structure, propulsion, avionics, and weapon systems. Upon successful completion of development, testing, and certification, the programme explicitly envisages procurement through the Development-cum-Production Partner (DcPP) route, allowing the selected Indian industry partner to transition the platform into series production, lifecycle support, and future upgrades. The issuance of the EoI comes at a time when India is simultaneously inducting imported HALE systems for immediate operational needs, while pushing indigenous development to ensure long-term strategic autonomy. In this context, the ADE-led HALE-RPAS programme is intended to establish domestic capability in large UAV design, high-altitude aerodynamics, turboprop propulsion integration, autonomous mission systems, and certification of complex unmanned aircraft. For Indian industry, the project represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to participate in the complete lifecycle of a strategic-class unmanned aircraft, from development and flight testing to production and sustainment. For the armed forces, the HALE-RPAS promises a persistent, high-altitude surveillance and strike platform capable of operating across land and maritime domains, significantly strengthening India’s situational awareness and deterrence posture. With the EoI now issued and timelines clearly defined, the HALE-RPAS programme has moved from concept into a structured industrial phase, setting the foundation for India’s first indigenous 6-ton, 40,000-ft-class HALE unmanned combat-capable aerial system.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 13:44:09
India
New Delhi : India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) reserving a designated block of airspace for an upcoming Indian Air Force (IAF) exercise near the southern sector of the India–Pakistan border, according to aviation notifications circulated to civil air operators. The NOTAM will be in effect from 20 January to 21 January 2026, with the restricted airspace active from 14:30 UTC on 20 January until 18:00 UTC on 21 January. The notified zone covers parts of Gujarat and extends westward over the Arabian Sea, an area that lies close to established international and domestic civilian air traffic routes. The reserved airspace is located opposite Pakistan and includes regions south of Ahmedabad and near Rajkot, highlighting the strategic sensitivity of the exercise area. Aviation authorities are expected to reroute civilian flights during the NOTAM window to maintain safety while military flying operations are underway. No official details have been released regarding the scale or specific objectives of the exercise. However, airspace reservations of this size are typically associated with planned Indian Air Force training activities, which may involve fighter aircraft, support platforms, and coordinated air operations in both inland and coastal sectors. Such NOTAMs are a routine aviation safety measure and form part of standard international practice whenever military exercises are conducted in shared airspace. They are issued well in advance to ensure coordination with civil aviation authorities and airlines and do not, by themselves, indicate any escalation. The NOTAM is scheduled to expire on 21 January 2026, after which the reserved airspace will be reopened for normal civilian air traffic operations.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 13:23:20
World
Moscow : Russia has taken a major step in strengthening its Integrated Air Defence (IAD) network with the development and integration of two advanced AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radars for its frontline S-350 and S-400 surface-to-air missile (SAM) systems. The new radars significantly enhance detection range, survivability, electronic-warfare resistance, and hypersonic tracking, reflecting a broader push to modernise Russian air defence architecture. 96L6-TsP AESA Radar Strengthens S-350 Vityaz The first system, the 96L6-TsP AESA radar, has been developed specifically for the S-350 Vityaz medium-range air defence missile system. This radar represents a next-generation evolution of the 96L6 family, transitioning from traditional PESA designs to a fully active phased-array configuration. According to available technical details, the 96L6-TsP consists of two independent AESA panels—one dedicated to transmission and the other to reception—combined with three 96L6-VP passive modules. The radar makes extensive use of modern Russian gallium-arsenide (GaAs) microwave electronics, improving sensitivity, reliability, and resistance to jamming. A key operational advantage lies in the 96L6-VP passive modules, which allow the S-350 system to remain on covert combat alert even when the central radar post and the 50N6A multifunction engagement radar are switched off. This capability is designed to reduce electromagnetic signature and enhance survivability against anti-radiation missiles. Mounted on special folding towers extending to heights of 15–20 metres, the passive modules enable the detection and precise localisation of low-observable cruise missiles and active airborne radars. This includes threats such as SCALP-EG, Taurus, and Storm Shadow stand-off missiles, which rely on terrain-hugging flight profiles and reduced radar cross-sections. Yenisei AESA Radar Integrated with S-400 The second and more powerful development is the Yenisei AESA radar, initially designed for the S-500 Prometey strategic air and missile defence system. Russia has now begun integrating this radar with the S-400 Triumf, dramatically expanding the system’s surveillance and tracking envelope. The Yenisei is based on a multi-element, jam-resistant AESA architecture, optimised for long-range detection and engagement support against ballistic, hypersonic, and aerodynamic targets. The radar is reportedly capable of tracking targets at altitudes up to 120 kilometres and at speeds of 4,800 m/s (17,280 km/h), with future growth potential to 7,000 m/s (25,200 km/h). In terms of detection performance, the figures mark a substantial leap: Low-observable targets with an RCS of 0.05 m² can be detected at distances of up to 200 km Extremely stealthy objects with an RCS of around 0.01 m² are detectable at up to 150 km, nearly twice the range of standard S-400 radars Conventional aircraft and helicopters with an RCS of about 5 m² can be detected at ranges of 550–600 km These capabilities significantly improve the S-400’s effectiveness against stealth aircraft, stand-off weapons, and hypersonic glide vehicles. Electronics and Materials Breakthroughs The enhanced performance of the Yenisei AESA radar is attributed to Russian advances in high-power, low-noise microwave transistors built on LTCC (Low Temperature Co-Fired Ceramic) substrates. These heat-resistant ceramics allow for higher power density, improved thermal management, and greater long-term reliability. Technologically, the Yenisei represents a direct evolutionary step from earlier Russian radar systems such as the RLM-S and 96L6 PESA radars, combining their proven design philosophies with modern AESA processing, digital beam-forming, and electronic-counter-countermeasures (ECCM). Strategic Impact The introduction of the 96L6-TsP and Yenisei radars significantly strengthens Russia’s layered air defence concept. The S-350, enhanced with passive detection and AESA surveillance, gains greater survivability and effectiveness against low-flying cruise missiles, while the S-400, upgraded with Yenisei, approaches capabilities previously associated only with the S-500. Defence analysts note that these upgrades could complicate enemy air operations, particularly those relying on stealth, electronic warfare, and hypersonic speed. At the same time, recent conflicts have shown that advanced radars remain high-value targets, making their real-world survivability and operational resilience a critical factor to watch. As deployment progresses, the performance of these new Russian AESA radars will be closely monitored, as they have the potential to reshape the air defence balance in regions where S-350 and S-400 systems are deployed.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 13:11:25
World
The United States has formally approved Israel’s acquisition of the F-15IA (Israel Advanced) fighter jet, a highly customised variant of the latest F-15EX, in what officials describe as the most significant modernisation of Israel’s F-15 fleet since its induction more than four decades ago. The approval culminated in an $8.6 billion contract awarded by the Pentagon to Boeing on December 29, 2025, covering the design, integration, testing, production, and delivery of 25 F-15IA aircraft, with an option for 25 additional jets. The agreement is structured as a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Israel and follows high-level political engagement between US President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu during their meeting at Mar-a-Lago in Florida. According to the Pentagon, all work under the contract will be carried out in St. Louis, Missouri, with the programme scheduled to run until December 31, 2035. A Proven Fighter, Reinvented for the Next Decade The F-15 has been a cornerstone of the Israel Air Force (IAF) since 1976, when Israel began inducting the F-15 Baz. The aircraft etched its place in aviation history in 1979, scoring its first confirmed air-to-air kill and going on to build an unmatched combat record. Globally, the F-15 family is credited with over 100 air-to-air kills with zero combat losses, a distinction unmatched by any other fighter aircraft. Israeli pilots are believed to account for at least half of these victories, achieved across multiple conflicts in the Middle East. Despite the introduction of stealth fighters such as the F-35I Adir, Israeli planners have continued to rely on the F-15 for missions demanding long range, heavy payloads, and sustained combat presence—roles that newer stealth platforms cannot always fulfil as efficiently. What Makes the F-15IA Different The F-15IA is a tailored evolution of the F-15EX, integrating state-of-the-art US systems with advanced Israeli avionics, electronic warfare suites, and weapon integrations. Compared to the older F-15I Ra’am, which entered IAF service in 1998, the new IA variant represents a generational leap. The aircraft features a fully digital glass cockpit, dominated by a 10×19-inch touchscreen multifunction display, modern standby instruments, and HOTAS controls. Both crew members are equipped with JHMCS II helmet-mounted cueing systems, enabling 360-degree target acquisition in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat. At the heart of the upgrade is the AN/APG-82(V)1 AESA radar, replacing the mechanically scanned APG-70 of the Ra’am. The AESA radar offers longer detection ranges, higher resolution, improved resistance to jamming, and seamless integration with electronic warfare systems—dramatically enhancing performance in contested environments. Survivability is further strengthened by the Eagle Passive/Active Warning Survivability System (EPAWSS), providing advanced threat detection, digital jamming, and countermeasures against modern air-defence networks. Payload, Range, and the ‘Bomb Truck’ Advantage One of the F-15’s enduring strengths—now amplified in the IA variant—is its ability to carry exceptionally large and diverse weapon loads over long distances. The F-15IA is designed to support outsized munitions, including heavy bunker-busters, long-range standoff weapons, air-launched ballistic missiles, and potentially future hypersonic weapons, without sacrificing manoeuvrability. The aircraft remains compatible with key US munitions such as AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-9X Sidewinder, JDAMs, and the M61A1 Vulcan cannon, while also integrating Israeli-developed precision weapons and electronic-attack systems. This flexibility has earned the F-15 its enduring nickname within the IAF: the “Bomb Truck.” Combat Legacy: From Osirak to Iran Israeli F-15s have been involved in nearly every major IAF operation since the late 1970s. In 1981, they provided escort during Operation Opera, the long-range strike that destroyed Iraq’s Osirak nuclear reactor near Baghdad. During the 1982 Lebanon War, F-15 Baz fighters achieved overwhelming air superiority, downing dozens of Syrian aircraft—including MiG-21s, MiG-23s, and MiG-25s—without a single air-to-air loss. The type’s legend was further cemented in 1983, when an Israeli F-15 famously landed safely despite losing an entire wing in a mid-air collision during training. More recently, F-15I Ra’am jets have played a central role in operations over Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, flying thousands of sorties after October 2023 and delivering heavy precision payloads in coordination with F-35I and F-16I fighters. The platform was also used during Operation Rising Lion in June 2025, when Israeli aircraft struck Iranian nuclear facilities, air-defence sites, and command centres—missions that underscored the continued relevance of the F-15 in long-range, high-risk operations. Strategic Impact With the induction of the F-15IA, Israel is effectively future-proofing a platform that has already defined its air dominance for nearly half a century. The new jets will operate alongside fifth-generation fighters, acting as heavy strike platforms, airborne command-and-control nodes, and long-range interceptors, particularly against emerging threats such as ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. As regional tensions persist and adversaries invest in layered air defences, the arrival of the F-15IA is set to reinforce Israel’s qualitative military edge—ensuring that a legendary fighter remains at the forefront of Middle Eastern air power well into the 2030s and beyond.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-30 12:56:11
World
Manila, December 29, 2025 — HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has secured a major naval shipbuilding contract with the Philippine Department of National Defense, reaffirming South Korea’s growing role as a key defense partner of the Philippines. Under the agreement, HHI will design and construct two 3,200-ton guided-missile frigates for the Philippine Navy, with deliveries scheduled for completion by 2029. The contract, part of the Philippine Navy Frigate Second Acquisition Program, was formally signed on December 26, 2025, in Manila, according to an official HHI press release. The two new surface combatants will serve as a central pillar of the Navy’s Horizon 3 modernization phase, which aims to significantly enhance the country’s maritime defense and deterrence capabilities by the end of the decade. Strengthening a Long-Standing Naval Partnership The latest deal builds on nearly a decade of sustained cooperation between HHI and the Philippine defense establishment. Since 2016, the South Korean shipbuilder has delivered two modern frigates and two 3,200-ton class corvettes to the Philippine Navy, all of which are now in active service. These vessels have markedly improved the Navy’s ability to conduct maritime patrols, surface warfare, and joint operations across the country’s vast archipelagic waters. In parallel, HHI is currently constructing six offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) for the Philippine Navy, underscoring the breadth of its involvement in Manila’s naval recapitalization program. Once all contracted ships are delivered, HHI will have supplied the Philippine Navy with a dozen major surface platforms, making it one of the Navy’s most important foreign industrial partners. Frigates Aligned with Horizon 3 Objectives Defense officials say the two new frigates are designed to complement existing frontline warships while introducing improved combat systems, sensors, and survivability features. With a displacement of around 3,200 tons, the ships are expected to provide a balanced mix of endurance, firepower, and multi-mission flexibility, enabling operations ranging from territorial defense and exclusive economic zone patrols to humanitarian assistance and disaster response. The acquisition aligns with Horizon 3’s broader objective of transitioning the Armed Forces of the Philippines from an internal security focus toward a more credible external defense posture, particularly in the maritime domain. Institutional Framework for Direct Procurement The frigate program also reflects the enduring impact of the 2009 Implementation Agreement for the Procurement of Specific Defense Products between Korea and the Philippines, which established a legal and institutional basis for direct government-to-government and industry-to-government defense procurement. This framework has streamlined negotiations and facilitated repeated acquisitions from Korean defense firms. Building on Proven Performance The Philippine Navy’s confidence in HHI is rooted in operational experience. The two Jose Rizal-class frigates, ordered under the first frigate acquisition project in 2016 and delivered in 2020 and 2021, have since emerged as key assets in Philippine maritime operations. Their performance has played a decisive role in shaping follow-on procurement decisions. With the signing of the second frigate contract, HHI further consolidates its position as a cornerstone of Philippine naval modernization. As regional maritime security challenges continue to evolve, the new frigates are expected to play a critical role in safeguarding national interests and strengthening the Navy’s ability to operate effectively in contested and high-tempo environments.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-29 16:53:49
World
Brasília — Brazil is moving to close a long-standing gap in its national air-defense architecture as the Brazilian Army advances plans to induct a medium-range ground-based air defense system, marking a decisive shift away from near-total reliance on fighter aircraft for territorial air security. According to defense planning details under discussion, the Army intends to acquire MBDA’s EMADS (Enhanced Modular Air Defense Solutions), a vertical-launch missile system designed to intercept aircraft, cruise missiles, drones, and other aerial threats at medium ranges. The system is expected to provide coverage in the 25–40 km class, depending on the missile variant selected, placing Brazil among a small group of regional powers fielding a modern layered air-defense capability. From Fighter Intercepts to Persistent Ground Shield Until now, Brazil’s air defense has depended heavily on the Brazilian Air Force’s fighter fleet to respond to airspace violations or unidentified aerial activity. While effective, fighter scrambles are expensive, manpower-intensive, and not optimized for emerging threats such as low-cost drones or low-flying cruise missiles. Army planners view EMADS as a structural solution. A permanently deployed missile system can remain on alert 24/7, react within seconds, and defend fixed military and strategic sites without consuming flight hours or fuel. Defense officials describe the shift as both operationally transformative and economically rational, particularly as unmanned and stand-off threats proliferate globally. EMADS and the CAMM Missile Family EMADS is built around MBDA’s Common Anti-air Modular Missile (CAMM) family, including the extended-range CAMM-ER variant. The system uses a soft vertical-launch method, allowing missiles to be ejected before ignition, reducing launch signature and enabling 360-degree engagement without turning the launcher. The missile’s active radar seeker, combined with a two-way datalink, allows mid-course updates from external sensors and the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously. In practical terms, this gives the Brazilian Army a credible defense against fast-moving aircraft, terrain-hugging cruise missiles, and coordinated drone attacks. Planned Deployments Across Strategic Regions Current planning foresees EMADS batteries being deployed to protect key Army bases and command hubs. Initial locations include Jundiaí (São Paulo state), Brasília (Federal District), and Brazil’s northern region, where distances are vast and reaction times are critical. Each deployment is expected to include multiple launchers and a substantial missile stockpile, creating localized defensive bubbles around priority assets. Together, these sites would form the backbone of Brazil’s first true medium-range ground-based air defense network. Interoperability With the Navy’s Tamandaré-Class Frigates A central factor favoring EMADS is Brazil’s existing relationship with MBDA at sea. The Brazilian Navy already operates the Sea Ceptor air-defense system, which uses the same CAMM missile family, aboard its Tamandaré-class frigates. This commonality promises significant advantages: shared training pipelines, simplified logistics, and the potential for joint air-defense coordination between land and naval forces. Defense analysts note that such cross-service missile standardization is rare in Latin America and reflects a more integrated approach to national defense planning. Cost, Timeline, and Strategic Impact While final figures will depend on contract scope, infrastructure, and missile quantities, the overall program is expected to run into several billion reais, making it one of the Brazilian Army’s most significant air-defense investments to date. The acquisition process is progressing with the aim of contract finalization around 2026, followed by phased deliveries and operational integration. Once fielded, EMADS would represent a qualitative leap for Brazil’s ground forces, adding a modern medium-range layer beneath fighter aircraft and above short-range systems. In strategic terms, it signals Brazil’s recognition that future air threats will not always arrive at high altitude or with clear warning—and that defending national territory now requires persistent, networked missile defenses alongside traditional airpower. If implemented as planned, the EMADS program will redefine how Brazil protects its skies, moving the Army firmly into the country’s front line of air defense for the first time in its history.
Read More → Posted on 2025-12-29 16:49:40Search
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