U.S
WASHINGTON, — Lockheed Martin has unveiled the PAC-3 Edge, a next-generation missile interceptor designed to counter hypersonic weapons and other advanced aerial threats. Announced on October 9, the interceptor is the company's entry in the U.S. Army's Future Interceptor program, where it has advanced to the next stage of development. The company plans to begin testing in 2027, with the goal of rapid deployment by 2031. New Seeker and Propulsion System PAC-3 Edge builds on the architecture of the combat-proven Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE), but incorporates a new seeker, an upgraded propulsion system and modified flight controls. The seeker was developed at Lockheed Martin's Strigo Product Center, supported by a $250 million investment. The company also plans to invest approximately $800 million overall in seeker technology to support additional systems. The interceptor uses a three-pulse solid rocket motor manufactured by Northrop Grumman. The motor is intended to improve range and altitude performance, while updated flight control systems are designed to enhance maneuverability and enable interception of aircraft, missiles and hypersonic threats at greater distances and higher altitudes. Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said PAC-3 Edge builds on the combat-proven PAC-3 MSE while delivering greater maneuverability, power and velocity. Integration and Production Plans The interceptor is designed to integrate with the U.S. Army's existing and future air and missile defense networks, including the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), M903 launcher, containerized launch systems and HIMARS Flex. Lockheed Martin has also indicated plans to pursue integration of the PAC-3 missile family with the U.S. Navy's Aegis combat system for potential shipboard deployment. Production is planned at the company's existing PAC-3 facility in Camden, Arkansas. The facility is being expanded and modernized with robotics, automation and other manufacturing improvements. Lockheed Martin expects the PAC-3 Edge to cost roughly the same as the PAC-3 MSE and is targeting production of approximately 2,000 interceptors annually. PAC-3 Edge Joins the Expanding Interceptor Family In July 2026, Lockheed Martin introduced the PAC-3 ACE, a lower-cost interceptor designed for faster production and priced at less than half the cost of the PAC-3 MSE. The ACE is intended to provide a more affordable option for meeting demand for air and missile defense systems, while the Edge focuses on improving performance against advanced threats. Rising Global Demand Drives Production Expansion Demand for Patriot-compatible interceptors has increased amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, including the conflict involving Iran. Ukraine has repeatedly requested additional Patriot systems from Western allies, and Ukrainian forces have reported high success rates using PAC-3 interceptors against ballistic and other missile threats. To address shortages, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. government have established a seven-year framework to increase annual PAC-3 MSE production from approximately 600 to around 2,000 units. Related multiyear contracts have a potential value of about $58.6 billion. Lockheed Martin is also working with industry partners and suppliers, including Boeing and L3Harris Technologies, to expand manufacturing capacity and accelerate deliveries. The company is one of two manufacturers selected to advance in the U.S. Army's Future Interceptor program, according to Lockheed Martin. A full-scale model of the PAC-3 Edge is scheduled to be displayed at the Association of the U.S. Army conference.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 13:52:33
World
MARRAKECH, MOROCCO — UAE-based defence company EDGE Group has signed a contract with Morocco’s Administration of National Defence (ADN) to supply DESERT STING 16 (DS-16) guided-glide weapons and THUNDER P-31 precision-guided munitions to the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF). Signed at the Marrakech Air Show 2026, the agreement covers the supply and integration of both weapons across Morocco’s unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) fleet. EDGE will carry out the required aircraft modifications and software updates to enable operational deployment. Morocco operates Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar Akıncı drones, alongside Chinese-made Wing Loong II aircraft. The DS-16 has previously been integrated with the Bayraktar TB2 for the UAE’s armed forces, while the Moroccan contract marks a new integration effort for the THUNDER series on unmanned aircraft. Weapon Specifications Both weapons are developed and manufactured in the UAE. They use GNSS-assisted inertial navigation systems (GAINS) and can be equipped with optional semi-active laser (SAL) seekers. With laser guidance, they are designed to achieve accuracy within a three-metre radius. DESERT STING 16 (DS-16): A 23-kilogram guided-glide weapon with a range of up to 15 kilometres. THUNDER P-31: A guidance system that converts the MK 81 general-purpose bomb into a precision-guided munition. The fully assembled weapon weighs 140 kilograms and has a range of up to 10 kilometres when released from a standard unmanned aircraft, increasing to 20 kilometres when released from a high-speed, high-altitude aircraft. Saif Al Dahbashi, President of Missiles & Weapons at EDGE, said the contract would provide capabilities tailored to the RMAF’s operational requirements. He also highlighted the company’s commitment to reliable supplies, long-term sustainment and building an enduring partnership with Morocco. EDGE Expands Defence Cooperation in Africa The agreement supports EDGE’s strategy of expanding in Africa by adapting its systems to platforms already operated by partner countries. In Angola, EDGE is implementing a €1 billion naval modernisation programme involving three BR71 MK II Combattante corvettes and six HT-100 NAVAL unmanned helicopters. The company has also signed a Letter of Intent with Angola’s Ministry of Interior for a multi-year border security initiative. Separately, EDGE signed a memorandum of understanding with Morocco’s ADN at the Marrakech Air Show 2026 to explore local production opportunities for high-performance small arms and aeronautical engines through partnerships with Moroccan companies.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 13:08:28
India
NEW DELHI, — India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) will seek a 35 per cent increase in its capital acquisition budget for the 2027–28 financial year (FY28), Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said on Friday. If approved, the allocation would rise from ₹1.85 lakh crore ($22 billion) in FY27 to approximately ₹2.5 lakh crore ($30 billion). Speaking at the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers’ annual session in New Delhi, Singh said a 25 per cent increase would also be a positive outcome if the full request is not approved. Under this alternative, the capital acquisition budget would reach approximately ₹2.31 lakh crore ($27.5 billion). The proposed increase would fund the acquisition of aircraft, warships, tanks, missiles, weapons systems and other military equipment for the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. It applies specifically to capital acquisition, not the overall defence budget, which also covers salaries, pensions and operating expenses. Higher funding follows increased procurement The ministry’s request follows two consecutive years of fully utilising its revised modernisation allocations. Defence capital acquisition contracts exceeded ₹2 trillion ($23.8 billion) in both FY25 and FY26, compared with an earlier annual range of ₹80,000 crore to ₹1 lakh crore ($9.5 billion to $11.9 billion). Singh said the ministry had approached the Finance Ministry for additional funding after using its revised allocations. The increased pace of contract signing supports its case for a larger capital acquisition budget. India’s defence budget trends India’s total defence allocation has increased over the past three financial years, alongside higher capital spending. FY25 (2024–25): Total defence allocation of approximately ₹6.22 trillion ($74.1 billion), with capital outlay of around ₹1.72 trillion ($20.5 billion). FY26 (2025–2026): Total allocation of ₹6.81 trillion ($81.1 billion), with capital outlay of ₹1.80 trillion ($21.4 billion). Modernisation funding was approximately ₹1.49 trillion ($17.7 billion), while defence spending represented 1.91 per cent of GDP. FY27 (2026–27): Total allocation of approximately ₹7.85 trillion ($93.5 billion), equivalent to 1.99 per cent of GDP. Capital outlay rose to ₹2.19 trillion ($26.1 billion), while the capital acquisition allocation reached ₹1.85 lakh crore ($22 billion), up 24.39 per cent from ₹1,48,722.8 crore in FY26. FY28 proposal could raise capital acquisition spending to $30 billion If approved, the 35 per cent increase would take the capital acquisition budget to approximately ₹2.5 lakh crore ($30 billion). Even the alternative 25 per cent increase would raise it to around ₹2.31 lakh crore ($27.5 billion). The proposed funding would support continued military procurement and modernisation across the three services. Domestic industry already accounts for 75 per cent of the capital acquisition budget, reflecting the emphasis on Indian defence manufacturing. India’s total defence allocation reached approximately $93.5 billion in FY27. The proposed increase in capital acquisition funding could contribute to further growth in defence spending, although the final FY28 allocation will depend on the government’s decision.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 13:01:02
India
MUMBAI, October 10, 2026 — The Indian Navy is scheduled to commission INS Mangrol, an indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on October 12, 2026. The ceremony will be presided over by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command. INS Mangrol is the third Mahe-class vessel built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi. The ship was delivered to the Navy on August 21, 2026, and features more than 80 per cent indigenous content under the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. The 78-metre-long vessel is designed to detect, track and engage hostile submarines in coastal and shallow waters. It is equipped with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)-developed Abhay hull-mounted sonar, lightweight torpedoes, an anti-submarine rocket launcher and the Maareech Advanced Torpedo Decoy System for protection against incoming torpedoes. Powered by three diesel engines and waterjet propulsion, INS Mangrol can reach a maximum speed of 25 knots. In addition to anti-submarine warfare, it can conduct underwater surveillance, mine warfare, low-intensity maritime operations and search-and-rescue missions. The vessel is named after the coastal town of Mangrol in Gujarat’s Junagadh district. It also carries forward the name of the earlier INS Mangrol (M85), a minesweeper decommissioned on April 7, 2004. The commissioning will strengthen the Indian Navy’s indigenous shallow-water warfare capabilities and support efforts to protect India’s coastal areas, ports and harbours.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 12:57:34
U.S
SEATTLE, — Seattle-based Overland AI has introduced IBEX, an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) selected by the U.S. Marine Corps for integration into its Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS), which supports counter-unmanned aircraft system (counter-UAS) operations. The company announced the vehicle on October 7, 2026. IBEX is built on the chassis, engine and drivetrain of the Polaris MRZR Alpha tactical vehicle, allowing it to use compatible parts, existing military maintenance and supply chains, and standard diesel or JP-8 military fuel. It is an evolution of Overland AI’s earlier ULTRA ground vehicle, featuring a modified chassis and dimensions designed for transport aboard the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. According to company co-founder and chief operating officer Greg Okopal, IBEX is narrower and longer than ULTRA, with greater payload capacity and additional space for sensors and equipment. Performance and Autonomous Capabilities IBEX can carry up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg) of cargo and equipment, reach speeds of 35 mph (56 km/h), and travel approximately 250 miles (402 km) at 20 mph (32 km/h) on a single tank. It also provides 5 kW of exportable electrical power to support external sensors, equipment and field systems. The vehicle uses Overland AI’s OverDrive autonomy software, OverWatch user interface and SPARK hardware. Its system is designed to navigate complex off-road terrain, plan routes and operate without remote piloting, GPS signals or pre-mapped routes. It is also designed for denied, degraded, intermittent and limited (DDIL) communications environments, while OverWatch enables operators to manage multiple vehicles. Beyond cargo transport, IBEX is designed to function as a mobile power, communications and computing node for forward military units. Marine Corps Integration and Procurement The Marine Corps plans to use IBEX initially to support MADIS counter-drone operations, including resupply of air defence systems. Other potential missions include general resupply, breaching and electronic warfare support. IBEX is being procured under the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) programme. The initial contract was valued at nearly $20 million for more than a dozen vehicles, primarily for the Marine Corps, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027. A subsequent $4.5 million expansion brought the total contract value to $25 million and added support for the U.S. Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment. The vehicles are also intended for use by U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM). Two IBEX prototypes are undergoing daily testing in central Washington, with further refinements planned before production. Company Background Founded in 2022 as a spinout from the University of Washington, Overland AI develops autonomous vehicle software and hardware for military applications. The Seattle-based company has raised approximately $140 million in venture funding, including a $100 million Series B round in 2026, and operates a production facility in Seattle’s Rainier Beach neighbourhood. IBEX adds an autonomous logistics platform designed to support frontline military units while using the fuel, components and maintenance infrastructure associated with the existing Polaris MRZR fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 12:19:38
U.S
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif., — The U.S. Air Force launched an unarmed Mk21A reentry vehicle aboard a Minotaur I rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base on October 9, conducting an in-flight environmental test to support development of the system for the next-generation LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The test provided additional flight data to mature the Mk21A design. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the vehicle is currently in the engineering and manufacturing development phase and is designed to carry the modernized W87-1 nuclear warhead on the Sentinel. Maj. Gen. William Rogers, the Air Force portfolio acquisition executive for ICBMs and director of ICBM systems at the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center (AFNWC), said the Mk21A is crucial to modernizing U.S. ICBMs in response to the changing global threat environment. He said its development would support a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent. Brig. Gen. Amanda Okeson, program manager for the AFNWC ICBM Systems Directorate, added that ICBM modernization remains an Air Force priority. Mk21A Testing and Development The latest launch follows a successful Mk21A test flight over the Pacific Ocean on June 17, 2024. An earlier attempt on July 6, 2022, failed when the Minotaur II+ rocket carrying the vehicle exploded approximately 11 seconds after liftoff from Vandenberg. Northrop Grumman supplied the Minotaur I rocket for the latest test, which was overseen by the U.S. Space Force’s Rocket Systems Launch Program. Minotaur rockets are used to demonstrate and test payload technologies in operationally realistic flight environments. Northrop Grumman is also developing the Sentinel ICBM. A reentry vehicle houses a missile’s warhead and must withstand high speeds and intense atmospheric heat during reentry. Lockheed Martin adapted the existing Mk21 design for the Mk21A using digital engineering, modeling and simulation. Lockheed Martin began work on the programme in October 2019 under a $108.3 million technology maturation and risk reduction contract. On October 30, 2023, it received a follow-on contract worth approximately $996 million for engineering, manufacturing and development. Subsequent modifications increased the cumulative contract value to about $1.48 billion by late 2025. Work is being conducted in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and other locations. The AFNWC leads the Mk21A acquisition effort, coordinating nuclear materiel management for Air Force Materiel Command in support of Air Force Global Strike Command. Sentinel ICBM Programme The LGM-35A Sentinel is intended to replace the U.S. Air Force’s Minuteman III ICBM fleet. Initial Sentinel missiles are planned to use existing Mk21 reentry vehicles and W87-0 warheads before transitioning to the Mk21A and modernized W87-1 warhead. The Air Force plans to procure 642 Sentinel missiles, including 400 for one-for-one replacement of Minuteman III missiles, with the remainder intended for operational reserve and testing. Sentinel has a targeted operational entry date of 2029, with initial flight testing scheduled for 2027. The Air Force has also completed the vertical stacking of an inert Sentinel vehicle at Vandenberg to verify critical subsystems ahead of flight testing. Looking beyond the Mk21A, the Air Force issued a request for information in April 2023 for a Next Generation Reentry Vehicle intended eventually to replace both the Mk21 and Mk21A. Further details about the future system have not been released. The October 9 test adds to the data supporting Mk21A development as the Air Force continues work on its next-generation land-based nuclear deterrent.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 12:14:17
World
TURIN, Italy — The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a joint initiative between Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom, has opened its first national engineering site in Turin, Italy, to support the development of its next-generation fighter aircraft. The programme aims to bring the aircraft into operational service from 2035. Operating as Edgewing Italia, the facility will coordinate Italy’s contribution and connect national engineering activities with Edgewing, the international joint venture responsible for the aircraft’s design and development. At full capacity, Edgewing Italia is expected to employ around 1,000 professionals, with more than 1,000 additional Leonardo employees supporting partner-company activities, mainly at Turin and the nearby Caselle site. £4.6 Billion Contract Supports Development On July 3, 2026, the GCAP Agency awarded Edgewing a £4.6 billion contract, jointly funded by the three partner nations. The 18-month agreement covers completion of the advanced analysis and concept phase before detailed design and development. It follows an earlier £686 million contract awarded in April 2026. Edgewing has signed international contracts worth more than €6 billion with the GCAP Agency this year. Launched in 2022, GCAP is overseen by the GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO) through the GCAP Agency. Edgewing is equally owned by Italy’s Leonardo, the UK’s BAE Systems and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. (JAIEC), each holding a 33.3% stake. Headquartered in Reading, England, the company is led by Chairman Herman Claesen and CEO Marco Zoff. Edgewing will retain design authority throughout the aircraft’s lifecycle, expected to extend beyond 2070, while national industries and their supply chains will handle production and final assembly. Turin’s Aerospace Industry Supports GCAP Turin was selected for its established aerospace and engineering industry. Leonardo employs around 5,200 people in Piedmont, including 2,200 at Caselle and 1,800 in Turin, while approximately 1,100 employees are associated with the Thales Alenia Space joint venture. Caselle currently handles final assembly of the Eurofighter Typhoon. The regional aerospace ecosystem supports more than 14,500 direct, indirect and induced jobs and includes around 420 suppliers, 87% of which are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These suppliers received approximately €740 million in orders in 2025, while Leonardo’s R&D investment accounts for 9.7% of total corporate research and development spending in the region. Italy’s wider GCAP industrial team includes Avio Aero, Elettronica and MBDA Italia, alongside universities, research centres, SMEs and start-ups. The Turin facility is the first additional Edgewing engineering site to open since the joint GCAP Agency–Edgewing headquarters was established in Reading in 2025. It is the first of three planned national hubs, with corresponding facilities in Japan and the UK expected to open in the coming months. Engineers from all three countries will work at the Turin site, initially including personnel seconded from Leonardo, BAE Systems and JAIEC. Five-Domain Combat System The GCAP fighter is being designed as a digitally connected core platform within a hub-and-spoke architecture covering five domains: air, land, sea, space and cyber. It will connect with other crewed and uncrewed systems, supported by command-and-control and communications infrastructure using artificial intelligence (AI) and supercomputing to coordinate missions. Leonardo CEO and General Manager Lorenzo Mariani said GCAP would strengthen technological sovereignty while supporting innovation, skilled employment and long-term economic growth across the partner nations. He described the programme as one of the most challenging and forward-looking initiatives in the aerospace, defence and security sector, adding that it would contribute to a safer and more prosperous future for Italy, Japan and the UK. Edgewing CEO Marco Zoff said the Turin site was part of the company’s expansion across the three countries. Giuseppe Lupoli, head of Edgewing’s Italian operations, highlighted opportunities for engineers to work on advanced digital engineering. The inauguration was attended by senior representatives of the partner nations, including the Japanese and British ambassadors to Italy and officials from Italy’s National Armaments Directorate. The new hub strengthens Italy’s role in GCAP as the three countries continue work towards the planned 2035 operational entry date.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 16:50:55
Europe
LA CIOTAT, France — French maritime technology company Exail has unveiled Neptis, an integrated autonomous maritime surveillance system combining its new Oryx family of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), defense-grade payloads and a centralized command-and-control (C2) network. Neptis is designed for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Critical Undersea Infrastructure Protection (CUIP) and Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C-UAS) missions. It coordinates autonomous assets to extend surveillance coverage and maintain a persistent maritime presence while reducing the need to assign crewed warships to routine monitoring. “Naval surveillance has traditionally relied on sending valuable ships and crews into the areas that need to be monitored. Autonomous systems fundamentally change that equation,” said Sébastien Grall, Head of Maritime Autonomous Systems at Exail. He said Neptis would help navies monitor larger areas, reduce personnel workloads and improve decision-making. Neptis Command-and-Control System Neptis allows operators to coordinate multiple autonomous platforms through a shared interface. Its capabilities include tactical track visualization, mission planning, advanced data fusion and AI-assisted classification, integrating information from sensors operating above, on and below the water's surface. The modular system supports line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight communications, configurable data processing and integration with existing naval command networks. It can operate from shore or ships, while human operators retain authority over critical mission approvals and platform retasking. Oryx Family of Uncrewed Surface Vessels The Oryx series comprises three vessels designed for different deployment, endurance and payload requirements. Oryx H-8: A compact vessel for rapid deployment, coastal surveillance and local force protection. It measures 7.71 metres, has a displacement of 1.6 tonnes, endurance of up to 10 days, speed below 14 knots and a range of approximately 1,000 nautical miles. Its fuel capacity is 250 litres. It can operate from suitable ships or shore facilities with low logistical requirements. Oryx H-9: Designed for coastal and offshore surveillance and multi-sensor missions. It measures 9 metres, has a displacement of 2.1 tonnes, endurance of up to 20 days, speed below 13 knots and a range of approximately 2,000 nautical miles. Its fuel capacity is 550 litres. Oryx O-16: Designed for long-duration offshore surveillance and persistent ASW operations. It measures 15.75 metres, has a displacement of 10.5 tonnes, endurance of up to 30 days, speed below 16 knots and a range of approximately 3,500 nautical miles. Its fuel capacity is 2,300 litres, and it uses dual-hybrid propulsion. The vessel can carry heavy payloads, including towed sonars, and support the deployment and recovery of remotely operated towed vehicles (ROTVs), remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). The Oryx vessels build on the naval architecture, hydrodynamics and autonomous capabilities of Exail's civil DriX platforms. The company states that they have demonstrated survivability in Sea State 7 conditions and support remote-supervised autonomous operations, flexible payload integration and military-grade cybersecurity for sovereign deployments. Operational Experience and Production Expansion Neptis builds on Exail's experience with its UMIS mine countermeasures system, which coordinates multiple uncrewed surface and underwater platforms, mission payloads and communications. Exail reports more than 300,000 operational hours, over 1.5 million nautical miles navigated worldwide and more than 90 USVs sold across its DriX and Inspector product lines. These platforms have participated in international naval exercises and operations involving the U.S. Navy's Task Force 59 and 4th Fleet, NATO Task Force X and the French Navy. To support production of Neptis and the Oryx family, Exail plans to open a new manufacturing facility in southern France to increase its USV production capacity. The company is scheduled to present the system and vessels at the Euronaval exhibition in November 2026.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 16:36:14
India
NEW DELHI, — The Ministry of Defence (Navy) has issued a Single Tender Enquiry Request for Proposal (RFP) to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the supply of one indigenous Shakti Electronic Warfare (EW) system to replace the older Ellora Mk-II suite on an existing warship. A Shivalik-class frigate associated with the Eastern Fleet is considered a possible candidate, although the specific vessel has not been confirmed. Under the procurement, BEL must manufacture and deliver the system within 18 months to the Weapon Equipment Depot (WED) in Visakhapatnam, where it will be prepared for integration into the designated vessel. Shakti EW System Capabilities Developed by the Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL), Hyderabad, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and manufactured by BEL, the Shakti system is designed to detect, intercept, classify, identify and jam conventional and modern radar emissions. It provides an electronic warfare defence layer against radar surveillance and anti-ship missile threats. The system includes two main components: Electronic Support Measures (ESM): Covers 0.175–40 GHz and provides high-accuracy direction finding, radio-frequency (RF) fingerprinting, and data recording and replay for post-mission analysis. Electronic Countermeasures (ECM): Operates across 6–40 GHz using Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) technology. The stated specifications include up to 50 kW effective radiated power (ERP) and the capability to counter eight or more simultaneous radar threats. These functions help warships identify hostile radar emissions and use electronic countermeasures to disrupt an adversary's ability to track or engage them. Separate from the 2024 Contract The latest single-system procurement is separate from the Ministry of Defence's February 2024 contract with BEL, worth ₹2,269.54 crore, for 11 Shakti EW systems and associated equipment under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. That contract covers newer capital warships, including Visakhapatnam-class destroyers and Project 17A (Nilgiri-class) frigates. The current RFP instead concerns the potential retrofit of an existing warship. The first Shakti system was installed on INS Visakhapatnam, while the programme has also covered other capital ships, including INS Vikrant. The proposed upgrade supports the Indian Navy's efforts to replace legacy electronic warfare equipment with indigenous technology. Domestic defence manufacturers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) also contribute to the supply chain. The specific ship assignment and installation schedule have not been confirmed in the procurement details provided.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 16:28:07
U.S
Washington, — The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) plans to integrate the AGM-158C Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) onto the U.S. Air Force’s B-52H Stratofortress strategic bombers, expanding their long-range maritime strike capabilities. According to a presolicitation notice issued on October 7, NAVAIR intends to award a sole-source contract to Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control under an existing basic ordering agreement. The proposed Cost Plus Fixed Fee delivery order will cover missile software updates, integration testing, test asset repairs and failure review boards. The response deadline is October 22, 2026. B-52H to Gain Long-Range Anti-Ship Capability The B-52H can already carry up to 20 AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM), the land-attack missile from which LRASM was developed. The two weapons share similar dimensions and hardware characteristics, providing a basis for integration, although software updates and testing will still be required. Naval News first reported the possibility of integrating LRASM onto the B-52 in 2019, but the effort did not advance for several years. Lockheed Martin is the intended contractor because it designed, developed and manufactures the missile and holds the technical data required for integration. The subsonic, stealth-oriented LRASM is designed to attack surface vessels, including moving ships, from long distances. Its integration would give the B-52H another option for maritime strike missions, particularly in the Indo-Pacific, where the United States is preparing for potential contingencies involving China’s expanding naval fleet. Retired U.S. Air Force Col. Mark Gunzinger, a former B-52 pilot and director of future concepts and capability assessments at the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, said a small number of B-52s could deliver more weapons against maritime targets over longer ranges than Navy carrier-based aircraft could in a day. Operating from airbases farther from contested areas could also reduce the need to expose aircraft carriers to hostile threats. B-2 Has Already Employed LRASM In June 2026, a B-2A Spirit stealth bomber used an LRASM against the decommissioned Austin-class amphibious transport ship USS Juneau (LPD-10) during Exercise Valiant Shield in the Philippine Sea, north of the Mariana Islands. The event marked the first public acknowledgment by the U.S. military of the B-2’s use of the missile. The development follows earlier LRASM milestones. DARPA and the U.S. Navy launched the programme in 2009. In 2012, DARPA cancelled the supersonic LRASM-B concept and focused on the subsonic LRASM-A, based on the JASSM-ER. Lockheed Martin conducted the first successful air-launch flight test from a B-1B in 2013, and the Pentagon designated the weapon AGM-158C in 2015. Low-rate production began under a 2017 contract. The Air Force achieved Early Operational Capability on the B-1B in 2018, followed by the Navy on the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet in 2019. The Navy completed four-missile salvo testing and began F-35C flight testing in 2024, with initial testing expanding to the F-35B in 2025. Missile Production and New JASSM-FLEX Concept Pentagon acquisition reports published in July 2026 stated that Lockheed Martin had delivered 5,348 JASSMs to the Navy and Air Force as of April. Production capacity was approximately 600 missiles annually, with plans to increase it to 860 per year. Lockheed Martin plans to invest $8 million to $9 million through 2030 to expand production, while the Air Force allocated $200 million in fiscal year 2025 to develop a second-source engine for LRASM and JASSM-ER. A Center for a New American Security report estimated that the Air Force used approximately one-quarter of its JASSM inventory during Operation Epic Fury, highlighting the need to replenish stocks. In September 2026, Lockheed Martin unveiled the AGM-158 JASSM-FLEX concept at the Air, Space & Cyber conference. Its modular design features interchangeable nose sections and boat tails, allowing payloads, sensors and launch configurations to be changed for different missions, including land attack and anti-ship operations. Lockheed Martin spokesperson Scott Swofford declined to provide specific details about the B-52 integration and referred questions to the Pentagon. He described LRASM as a precise, stealthy and survivable cruise missile offering flexible capabilities for offensive anti-surface warfare. The October 7 notice outlines the planned integration rather than confirming that the work has been completed. If the effort proceeds, it will expand the U.S. bomber fleet’s options for long-range maritime strikes and build on the B-52H’s existing compatibility with JASSM-family weapons.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 16:17:26
World
KUWAIT — Australian defence technology company Electro Optic Systems (EOS) has signed a £370 million (approximately A$700 million) contract to supply a nationwide counter-drone defence system to Kuwait. The agreement is the largest in EOS's history, with the company serving as prime contractor and systems integrator. Confirmed by the UK government on October 9, the contract will be delivered through MARSS Systems Limited, an EOS company, as part of the UK's Taskforce Sabre initiative supporting Gulf states. AI-Powered NiDAR System and Counter-Drone Weapons The defence network will be built around NiDAR, an artificial intelligence-enabled command-and-control platform acquired through EOS's purchase of MARSS, completed on May 21, 2026. The system is designed to detect and counter airborne drones and coastal seaborne threats through a cellular, nationwide network. The deployment will integrate third-party electro-optical sensors, radar and sonar to detect threats at medium and long ranges. Data will be sent to central command centres, where NiDAR will combine sensor inputs to generate actionable threat assessments. The contract also includes an initial supply of third-party soft-kill jammers, which disrupt electronic links, and hard-kill interceptors designed to physically engage targets. Financial Guarantees and Export Approvals Work cannot begin until EOS fulfils the remaining financial and export conditions. The company must secure a £74 million bank guarantee, triggering an advance payment of the same amount from Kuwait. It must also obtain the required export licences for system components within two months of receiving the necessary customer documentation. EOS provided a separate £37 million performance bond on August 12, 2026, equivalent to 10% of the contract value. It is backed by a £40.3 million cash security deposit held at a commercial bank. EOS is working to meet the outstanding conditions but said there is no absolute assurance about whether or when they will be fulfilled. If the company fails to meet the requirements, including obtaining export licences, Kuwait can terminate the contract or appoint a third party to complete the work at EOS's expense. The agreement includes a five-year warranty starting from the customer's formal acceptance of the system, termination rights, and capped and uncapped damages for breaches, delays or failure to perform. Revenue, Cash Flow and Workforce Expansion EOS expects to earn more than 80% of the contract's total revenue within the first 12 to 24 months after the agreement becomes unconditional. The remaining approximately 20% relates to support services over four years. The company expects the project to be profitable over its lifecycle, although the initial deployment will require substantial working capital. Cash flow is forecast to turn positive by mid-2027. EOS completed a capital raise in May 2026 to support the upfront MARSS acquisition payment, contract expansion and greater balance-sheet flexibility. The company also requires certain consents and additional accommodation from WHSP and other guarantee facility providers to finalise the required performance bonds and guarantees. EOS is recruiting additional personnel to expand its existing MARSS workforce and will deploy a dedicated team to Kuwait to manage implementation and identify further regional sales opportunities. The UK government said the agreement will create 100 new UK jobs in skilled engineering and manufacturing, with production based in Bristol. The company acknowledged support from both the UK and Australian governments in securing the contract. The project's implementation remains dependent on EOS meeting the outstanding financial and export-licensing conditions.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 16:11:09
U.S
WASHINGTON, — The U.S. Department of State has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia valued at an estimated $300 million for Tomahawk cruise missile mission-planning systems, communications equipment and related support services. According to the State Department notification issued on October 8, the proposed package includes Theater Mission Planning Centers (TMPCs), the TMPC Mission Planning System (MPS), communications systems, program management, engineering, training, logistics and other related support services. The approval does not confirm that a final contract has been signed or that any equipment has been delivered. Supporting Australia's Tomahawk Programme The package supports Australia's programme to acquire more than 200 Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles for the Royal Australian Navy, comprising Block IV and modernised Block V variants. The missiles have a reported range exceeding 2,000 kilometres, with some official Australian statements citing up to 2,500 kilometres under certain conditions, depending on the variant and mission profile. The mission-planning systems will support the preparation and coordination of missile operations, while communications equipment and technical services will help integrate the capability into Australia's military command structures. The latest proposal focuses on operational planning and support infrastructure rather than additional missiles. In December 2024, the Hobart-class destroyer HMAS Brisbane successfully test-fired a Tomahawk missile during a trial off California's coast, making Australia the third country, after the United States and the United Kingdom, to fire the missile. The missiles are planned for Hobart-class destroyers and future Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines. Their possible integration onto Hunter-class frigates remains subject to further assessment and is not confirmed. Contractors and Strategic Objectives The State Department identified four principal contractors for the proposed sale: BAE Systems in San Diego, California; Tapestry Solutions in St. Louis, Missouri; Peraton in San Jose, California; and Leidos in Virginia Beach, Virginia. No offset agreement has been identified. Any such arrangements would be negotiated directly between Australia and the contractors. Implementation would not require additional U.S. government or contractor personnel to be assigned to Australia. The State Department said the sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives. It is expected to strengthen Australia's ability to address current and future threats, deter regional threats, enhance homeland defence and improve interoperability with U.S. maritime forces and other allied militaries. The department assessed that Australia could integrate the systems and services into its armed forces without difficulty. The notification also stated that the proposed sale would not alter the basic military balance in the region or adversely affect U.S. defence readiness. Previous Approvals The latest proposal follows a March 2023 approval for a possible sale of up to 200 Tomahawk Block V and up to 20 Block IV missiles, with associated equipment and support, valued at an estimated $895 million. In January 2024, the United States also notified a possible $250 million sale of general Tomahawk weapons system support services. The proposed $300 million package would add mission-planning, communications and sustainment infrastructure to support Australia's wider Tomahawk acquisition programme.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 14:39:51
U.S
WASHINGTON, — The U.S. Navy has awarded five agreements worth a combined $743.6 million for prototype development of the Nuclear-Armed Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM-N). Signed on September 23 and announced on October 6, the agreements cover missile development, flight systems integration and launch canisters, with work scheduled through December 31, 2027. Leidos subsidiary Dynetics, Raytheon and Northrop Grumman will lead missile development and systems integration, while Northrop Grumman Mission Systems and Pacific Engineering will develop launch canisters. The awards were issued through Other Transaction Authority (OTA) agreements under the Strategic & Spectrum Missions Advanced Resilient Trusted Systems (S2MARTS) initiative, managed by the National Security Technology Accelerator (NSTXL). The agreements support prototyping rather than production missile purchases. Earlier Contracts and Development Work The latest awards build on prototype agreements issued in August 2025 to Leidos, Raytheon, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and Florida Turbine Technologies for initial missile and technology development. Separate launcher and canister agreements worth approximately $26.24 million followed in September 2025. Other related contracts include a $194.1 million award to General Dynamics Mission Systems in September 2026 for fire-control subsystem engineering through September 2028; a $47.4 million award to JRC Integrated Systems for integration, modelling, simulation and flight-test engineering extending into 2030; and a $94.6 million contract to BAE Systems for engineering, technical and programme support through September 2028. Return of a Sea-Launched Nuclear Capability The SLCM-N programme aims to restore a capability previously provided by the nuclear-armed Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM-N). The United States began deploying TLAM-N missiles aboard surface ships and submarines in the mid-1980s. They were removed from surface ships in the early 1990s, and the remaining inventory was fully retired in 2013. The Trump administration's 2018 Nuclear Posture Review revived the concept to strengthen regional deterrence and provide the United States and its allies with an additional response option. The Biden administration later proposed cancelling the programme, but Congress maintained funding and directed the Navy to continue development. Funding, Deadlines and Planned Platforms According to the Congressional Research Service, fiscal year 2025 budget legislation allocated $2 billion to accelerate missile development and $400 million for the associated nuclear warhead. Fiscal year 2026 legislation authorised further funding for the missile and warhead. Fiscal year 2024 defence legislation set September 30, 2034, as the deadline for initial operational capability. Fiscal year 2026 legislation requires a limited number of weapons to be available for limited operational deployment by September 2032. These are statutory deadlines, not guarantees that development will be completed on schedule. The programme achieved Milestone A in December 2025 and is in the technology maturation and risk reduction phase. Planned milestones include the start of system development around September 2028 and a low-rate production decision in September 2031, followed by further testing and production decisions. The missile is intended primarily for Virginia-class attack submarines equipped with the Virginia Payload Module and Virginia Payload Tubes. Potential integration with future surface ships has also been referenced in programme planning. The SLCM-N is expected to use a variant of the W80 nuclear warhead family. The programme remains in development and prototyping, with the latest agreements supporting work on the missile, its flight systems and launch equipment ahead of planned testing, production and deployment milestones.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 14:35:34
U.S
ARLINGTON, Va., — Raytheon, a business of RTX , has received a multi-year contract worth up to $6.3 billion from the U.S. Department of War and the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) to produce and sustain Standard Missile-3 Block IB (SM-3 IB) interceptors. The agreement has a five-year base period valued at approximately $4.4 billion, with two additional option years that could increase its total value to $6.3 billion. Issued as an undefinitized contract action, it allows Raytheon to begin work while the remaining contractual details are finalized. Production will take place primarily at facilities in Tucson, Arizona, and Huntsville, Alabama, with work expected to continue through October 2034. The exact number of interceptors covered by the contract has not been disclosed. Contract to Replenish Missile Defense Inventories The award is part of framework agreements Raytheon signed with the Department of War in February 2026 to expand production capacity and accelerate deliveries of critical munitions, including the SM-3 family, SM-6, Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) and Tomahawk variants. The agreement aims to replenish missile defense inventories reduced through combat use. The SM-3 interceptor family saw its first combat use in 2024, when U.S. Navy ships engaged ballistic missile threats during Iranian attacks on Israel. Raytheon President Phil Jasper said the contract demonstrates the company's commitment to increasing production of critical munitions. He added that the SM-3 Block IB's combat experience highlights its continued relevance and that the agreement will help the U.S. Navy, the MDA and partner nations maintain their defensive capabilities against evolving threats. Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment Michael P. Duffey said the contract provides production certainty for the defence industrial base, helps address manufacturing bottlenecks among lower-tier suppliers and supports interceptor availability for fleets and combatant commands operating across air, sea and land domains. SM-3 Block IB Capabilities The SM-3 Block IB is a ship- and land-based interceptor designed to destroy short- to intermediate-range ballistic missiles during the midcourse phase of flight, outside Earth's atmosphere. It uses hit-to-kill technology, destroying targets through direct collision rather than an explosive warhead. The interceptor features a two-colour infrared seeker and a throttleable divert and attitude control system to support target discrimination and manoeuvrability. It can be launched from Aegis-equipped U.S. Navy ships using the Mk 41 Vertical Launching System and from land-based Aegis Ashore installations. The SM-3 Block IB operates alongside the more advanced SM-3 Block IIA and other members of the Standard Missile family as part of the United States' layered ballistic missile defence network. RTX Expands Missile Production RTX has been investing in additional manufacturing capacity and faster production across the Standard Missile family. The latest award follows other multi-year agreements, including a major SM-6 production contract and earlier framework arrangements covering AMRAAM and Tomahawk variants. The SM-3 Block IB production line had previously slowed, with a contract modification earlier in 2026 adding 23 interceptors to an existing order. The new agreement establishes a longer-term production framework, although the annual delivery schedule and total interceptor quantity remain undisclosed. The contract is intended to help restore and maintain U.S. and allied inventories of a combat-proven ballistic missile defence capability.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 14:23:05
Europe
HERSTAL, Belgium — FN, the defence brand of FN Browning Group, which includes FN Herstal, FN UK and FN America, has introduced the FN M3M ENDURANCE, a new version of its M3 .50-calibre machine gun designed to extend service life and reduce maintenance requirements. According to FN, the weapon's operational service life has increased by 50 percent, from 40,000 to 60,000 rounds, while preventive maintenance intervals have been extended threefold, from every 5,000 rounds to every 15,000 rounds. The gun retains a high cyclic rate of fire of 1,100 rounds per minute. The improvements are intended to reduce ownership costs, spare-parts requirements and maintenance workload while increasing weapon availability. FN says the changes can reduce armourer workload by a factor of three. Integrated System for Air, Land and Sea The FN M3M ENDURANCE is offered as a fully integrated pintle-mounted system comprising the weapon, ammunition, mounts, integrated logistics support, operator training and accessories, backed by a global warranty. Accessories include the FN ELITY LITE laser rangefinder, an infrared laser pointer/illuminator and the FN SMARTCORE shot counter, which tracks rounds fired and supports maintenance planning. The system is designed for new or existing FN crew-served weapon installations on aircraft, land vehicles and naval platforms. It can also be fitted to a ground-based pedestal for perimeter defence and counter-unmanned aircraft system (C-UAS) applications. Rudi Collin, Vice President of Integrated Weapon Systems at FN, said the aim was to deliver high firepower with longer service life and lower maintenance requirements. He also highlighted the different maintenance needs of airborne, land and naval applications, noting that the FN M3 is widely used in airborne roles. FN has worked on pintle-mounted weapon systems since the late 1970s, integrating machine guns for air, land and maritime operations. Specifications and Operating Features The FN M3M ENDURANCE is a fully automatic, open-bolt machine gun chambered for the 12.7×99 mm (.50-calibre) cartridge. It uses a short-recoil operating system and is belt-fed. Key specifications include: Rate of fire: 1,100 rounds per minute Effective range: 2,500 metres Maximum range: 6,500 metres Compatible ammunition: Ball, Tracer, Armour-Piercing (AP), Armour-Piercing Incendiary (API), APIT and APEI Ammunition feed: Left or right side Operating system: Fully mechanical, requiring no electrical power from the host platform The mechanical design allows the gun to remain usable when the aircraft, vehicle or vessel has limited electrical power or experiences a power failure. FN also highlights its balance, accuracy, crew safety and reliability. The M3 series is derived from the Browning M2 heavy machine gun. The M3M variant, also known as the GAU-21 in US service, has been used for decades on rotary-wing aircraft and other platforms. Earlier versions serve with the US Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force, the UK's Royal Navy and Germany's Bundeswehr, among other military operators. FN states that its pintle mounts are produced under ISO 9001 and AS/EN 9100 quality systems and Nadcap-certified processes, with qualifications for various military aircraft, land vehicles and naval platforms. The FN M3M ENDURANCE will be displayed at EURONAVAL 2026 in Paris, France, from November 3 to 6, at the FN booth in Hall 6, Stand F44.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 14:08:58
World
EINDHOVEN, Netherlands — Ukrainian defence technology companies The Fourth Law and Odd Systems have launched a joint initiative, Project Foundation, to mass-produce thermal imaging sensors in Europe and the United States. The project aims to reduce dependence on third-party suppliers, particularly China, and strengthen Western production capacity for thermal imaging technology. “The launch of the project is intended to reduce dependence on third-party suppliers, particularly China, and ensure the sovereignty of Western countries in the field of thermal imaging technology,” The Fourth Law told Ukrainian military news outlet Militarnyi. The programme aims to quadruple thermal sensor production in Europe and double it in the United States over the next three years. Manufacturing facilities are being prepared, with mass production scheduled to begin in 2027. Project Focuses on Thermal Imaging Sensors Project Foundation will focus on long-wave infrared (LWIR) sensors, also known as microbolometers. These components enable thermal imaging cameras to detect heat-emitting objects in darkness, fog and smoke. They are used in drones, military equipment, robotic systems, vehicles and civilian applications. Yaroslav Azhnyuk, co-founder of both companies, said Europe produces fewer than 500,000 thermal sensors annually, while Ukraine consumes an equivalent volume in approximately five months. He also said European sensors can cost around five times more than Chinese alternatives, may offer lower quality in some cases and are difficult to obtain because of high demand. Plans for a dedicated facility capable of producing one million sensors annually were first outlined in February 2026. Production Sites and Funding Project Foundation is headquartered in Eindhoven, the Netherlands, a European technology hub with semiconductor engineering expertise. Its manufacturing operations will be organised through two regional sites: First Foundation, serving Europe, and Second Foundation, serving the United States. The project will combine its own sensor designs and technology platform with dedicated manufacturing facilities and partner foundries. Funding will come from the founders' capital, private investors, debt financing, government grants and advance customer orders. The companies have not disclosed the total funding required or the amounts secured. The initiative has also established partnerships with semiconductor and microbolometer research laboratories and major buyers of thermal imaging equipment. Companies Combine Camera and AI Expertise Odd Systems develops daytime and thermal cameras for drones and other robotic platforms. Its Kurbas thermal camera is used by Ukrainian forces and supplied to more than 70 drone manufacturers, according to the project information provided by the companies. The Fourth Law specialises in artificial intelligence and autonomy systems for unmanned platforms. Its technology is designed to help robotic systems navigate and continue missions when electronic warfare or disrupted communications limit their connection with operators. Igor Nakonechnyi, who holds a doctorate in semiconductor chemistry, has been appointed CEO of Project Foundation. He said the companies' experience in thermal camera development had shown the importance of high-performance sensors, reliable supplies and competitive prices. Azhnyuk and his team founded The Fourth Law and Odd Systems in Kyiv in 2023. Their earlier camera-development experience includes work on more than one million consumer smart cameras, according to the supplied company background. The project aims to supply thermal sensors to defence, robotics and automotive manufacturers in Western markets. Its planned expansion will depend on establishing manufacturing capacity and maintaining competitive prices as the facilities move towards the 2027 mass-production target. The names Project Foundation, First Foundation and Second Foundation are inspired by Isaac Asimov's Foundation series of novels, according to the supplied project information.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 13:59:52
World
St. Petersburg, — Russian technology company DOFA-Tek has unveiled the DF-1 Roscherk, a disposable, jet-powered interceptor drone designed to destroy other unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The system was presented at the All-Russian Drone Congress 2026, held in St. Petersburg from October 7 to 9. According to company specifications, the DF-1 has a takeoff weight of 15 kg, including a 1.5 kg warhead. It can reach a maximum speed of 500 km/h, has a stated range of up to 250 km and can remain airborne for up to 50 minutes. Its exact dimensions have not been disclosed. DOFA-Tek General Director Marat Drofa said the interceptor can destroy targets through direct impact or by detonating its onboard warhead. It is launched from a rail using a solid-fuel booster. Technical Director Vitaly Dobrovolsky said the system can be deployed from the ground or rooftops. The drone has an all-metal structure, which the company says will simplify manufacturing and support large-scale production. The company lists a cruising speed of approximately 400 km/h and an economical speed of around 200 km/h, with a range of up to 240 km in economical mode. Testing and Production Plans Drofa said the DF-1 has successfully completed its first two factory-testing stages. Final flight testing is scheduled to conclude in November 2026, after which DOFA-Tek plans to begin serial production. The company says agreements are already in place with several customers, but their details have not been disclosed. DF-3 Gadyuka and DF-5 Iskra DOFA-Tek also outlined two additional unmanned aircraft, both at the technical proposal stage. The DF-3 Gadyuka (Viper) is a larger interceptor with a stated takeoff weight of approximately 240 kg, a maximum speed of 850 km/h, a cruising speed of 650 km/h and a range of up to 800 km. Its reported aerodynamic profile has been compared with that of the Italian Aeritalia G.91 light fighter-bomber. Its projected performance could support interception of certain cruise missiles, although this capability has not been independently demonstrated. The DF-5 Iskra (Spark) is designed for strike missions. It has a proposed takeoff weight of 120 kg, a warhead capacity of up to 20 kg, a maximum speed of 850 km/h and a range of up to 1,200 km. While the DF-1 is approaching the end of its factory-testing programme, the DF-3 and DF-5 remain at an early development stage. Independent verification of their performance and production readiness has not been established.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 13:42:24
Europe
LONDON, — British defence vehicle manufacturer Supacat has demonstrated a mobile air-defence system based on its HMT 400 vehicle, equipped with the Flexible Mission Platform (FMP) turret developed by US-based defence technology company Moog. The system combines a rotary machine gun and laser-guided rockets for short-range air defence and counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) missions. The configuration was presented recently, including in displays associated with Land Forces 2026 in Perth, Australia. Dual-Weapon System Combines Machine Gun and Guided Rockets The Moog FMP turret is equipped with two weapon systems: M134 rotary machine gun: A six-barrel, 7.62 mm weapon with a reported effective engagement range of approximately 1 kilometre (0.6 miles). M261 rocket launcher: A 19-tube launcher loaded with Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II) laser-guided rockets, with a reported engagement range of up to 6 kilometres (3.7 miles). Developed by BAE Systems, the APKWS II guidance kit converts compatible unguided 70 mm Hydra 70 rockets into precision-guided munitions using laser guidance while retaining the existing rocket motor and warhead. Actual engagement range depends on launch conditions and configuration. HMT 400 Provides Mobility and Payload Capacity The HMT 400 is Supacat's 4×4 High Mobility Transporter, known as the Jackal in British Army service. It was developed for demanding military missions, including reconnaissance, rapid assault and convoy protection. The vehicle features variable-height air suspension to support operations across difficult terrain. Its standard 4×4 configuration has a payload capacity of approximately 2,500 kg, a listed top speed of 120 km/h and a range of around 800 km. The HMT platform has been in service for more than two decades and is used by several countries. Its modular, open architecture supports the integration of different weapons, sensors and mission equipment. Moog FMP Supports Modular Weapon Integration Moog's FMP is designed to integrate different weapons and sensors onto land vehicles, trailers, containers and surface ships. The platform weighs approximately 350 kg without launchers, provides continuous 360-degree traverse with an optional slip ring and has a typical elevation range of −10 to +30 degrees. Available options include stabilisation for firing on the move and weapon stores management. Its modular design allows weapon and sensor configurations to be adapted to specific operational requirements. Supacat and Moog have also explored other HMT-based air-defence configurations, including concepts using ASRAAM missiles on related HMT variants. Mobile Air Defence and Counter-Drone Role The new configuration combines machine-gun fire for closer engagements with laser-guided rockets for targets at greater distances. Its wheeled chassis and off-road mobility could allow ground forces to deploy the system alongside mobile units. The demonstration highlights the potential to add air-defence capabilities to an existing light tactical vehicle through modular weapon integration. However, it does not confirm a production order or entry into operational service.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 13:36:03
World
SEOUL, — South Korea’s Presidential Office has released the first official photographs showing its newly developed hypersonic glide vehicle (HGV) striking a maritime target during a test on October 8. President Lee Jae Myung observed the test, conducted by the Agency for Defense Development (ADD) at the Anheung test center in Taean, about 130 kilometres south of Seoul. The images show the vehicle contacting the sea at the end of its flight. Developed using domestic technology, the system is intended to strike critical targets at high speed along an unpredictable flight path. HGV Completes Target Strike During the test, the vehicle reached its planned altitude, separated from its booster and flew at hypersonic speeds. It then descended to a lower altitude, adjusted its course horizontally and vertically, and accurately struck the designated target. The test assessed high-temperature-resistant materials, guidance and control systems, and low-altitude manoeuvring capabilities. An HGV uses a booster to reach high altitude before separating and gliding through the atmosphere at Mach 5 or higher, allowing it to manoeuvre during flight. Presidential spokesperson Kang Yu-jung described the HGV as a core strategic asset designed to conduct surprise precision strikes against important targets. President Lee Calls for Faster Development Following the test, President Lee encouraged the development team and called for faster progress towards operational deployment. He also inspected the Hyunmoo-5 surface-to-surface missile, nicknamed the “monster missile” because of its large warhead, and stressed the importance of self-reliant defence. The Presidential Office described the test as a major milestone towards developing a deterrent capable of striking critical targets across the Korean Peninsula. The HGV is expected to complement South Korea’s existing ballistic and cruise missile inventory under the Republic of Korea Strategic Command. Technical Details Remain Undisclosed South Korean authorities have not disclosed the HGV’s exact speed, dimensions, operational range, development timeline or expected entry-into-service date. The booster’s size relative to the Hyunmoo-II C, Hyunmoo-II D and Hyunmoo-IV-1 missiles also remains unconfirmed. Officials have not confirmed whether the launcher uses the Hyunmoo-5 transporter-erector-launcher (TEL) or a modified version of its architecture. The test comes amid heightened Korean Peninsula tensions following recent North Korean missile activity and a border incident. South Korea now joins a small group of countries that have demonstrated hypersonic glide vehicle technology. Further development and testing will be needed to establish the system’s operational status.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 13:28:19
U.S
MANILA, — Lockheed Martin has signed a Direct Commercial Sale contract with the Philippine Department of National Defense to supply advanced training systems for the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and its growing fleet of Sikorsky S-70i Black Hawk helicopters. Announced on October 8, 2026, in Orlando, Florida, the agreement includes a Full Flight Simulator, a Virtual Maintenance Trainer, training course materials, and sustainment and spare parts support through 2032. The contract marks the first direct commercial order for Lockheed Martin’s S-70i Black Hawk training devices. The Full Flight Simulator uses digital twin technology to replicate the aircraft’s cockpit environment, flight characteristics and operating systems. It will allow pilots to practise routine operations and emergency procedures in a simulated environment without using operational helicopters. The Virtual Maintenance Trainer uses physics-based models of aircraft subsystems, including avionics and hydraulics, allowing maintenance personnel to practise troubleshooting and repair procedures without taking helicopters out of service for training. Building Domestic Training Capabilities The Philippine Air Force will continue training pilots at the U.S.-based Sikorsky Training Academy until the new systems are installed and domestic training capabilities are established. The PAF already operates a full-motion simulator with interchangeable cockpits for the S-70i Black Hawk and Bell 412EP helicopters. Supplied by Romania-based Simultec, it was inaugurated in Cebu in December 2025. The new Lockheed Martin systems will expand the country's existing training infrastructure. Lockheed Martin said its training systems use digital twins and a digital thread linked to the helicopter’s operational flight programme. This approach can allow simulator software updates to be developed in days rather than years, helping keep training systems aligned with future aircraft upgrades. Supporting a Fleet of Approximately 47 Helicopters The agreement follows the Philippine Air Force’s completion of deliveries under its second Black Hawk procurement contract. In August 2026, the PAF received its final batch at Villamor Air Base, completing deliveries of 32 additional S-70i helicopters under the agreement. Following two major procurement contracts, the Philippines operates approximately 47 S-70i Black Hawks, making it the world's largest operator of this variant. The helicopters are manufactured by PZL Mielec in Poland, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary. The PAF uses its Black Hawks for search and rescue, humanitarian assistance, aerial firefighting and troop transport across the Philippine archipelago, which is frequently affected by severe weather and natural disasters. The expanding fleet increases the need for qualified pilots, maintenance personnel and reliable spare parts support. Tim James, vice president of Air and Commercial Solutions at Lockheed Martin, said the contract was a long-term investment in the Philippine Air Force’s mission readiness and would support its growing S-70i fleet through training and sustainment solutions. William Blair, vice president and regional chief executive for Asia and India at Lockheed Martin, said the systems would help keep crews and maintenance personnel mission-ready while supporting the Philippines’ broader military modernization programme. The contract value and exact delivery schedule for the training systems have not been disclosed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 13:15:56Search
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