U.S
BETHESDA, Md. — Lockheed Martin has announced a major manufacturing modernization and expansion program, committing between $8 billion and $9 billion through 2030 to upgrade more than 20 manufacturing facilities across the United States. The investment is aimed at increasing production capacity for three of the company's key missile defense programs: the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptor, the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptor, and the Next Generation Interceptor (NGI). According to the company, the investment will support facility modernization, advanced manufacturing technologies, workforce development, and supply chain improvements as demand for air and missile defense systems continues to grow. Multiyear Contracts Support Production Expansion The expansion follows a series of major multiyear procurement contracts awarded by the U.S. government. In July 2026, Lockheed Martin received a seven-year undefinitized contract action (UCA) modification worth up to $53.86 billion for PAC-3 MSE interceptors. Combined with a $4.7 billion first-year award received in April 2026, the total value of the multiyear PAC-3 MSE procurement reached $58.62 billion. Lockheed Martin said the funding will support its plan to triple PAC-3 MSE production capacity by the end of 2030. The PAC-3 agreement is the second major multiyear procurement executed under the Department of War's Acquisition Transformation Strategy. It follows a June 2026 procurement contract worth up to $35 billion for THAAD interceptors. According to previously announced contract details, the THAAD procurement is intended to increase annual production from 96 interceptors to 400 interceptors. Work under the contract will be carried out at facilities in Dallas, Texas; Sunnyvale, California; Troy, Alabama; and Camden, Arkansas. "We are moving with speed to support the Department of War's Arsenal of Freedom," said Dan Nimblett, Vice President of Lockheed Martin Munitions Acceleration Integration. "Lockheed Martin continues to move with urgency to support investments to expand capacity, modernize critical facilities and deter adversaries through comprehensive defensive capabilities," Nimblett added. New Facilities in Alabama and Arkansas To support higher production rates, Lockheed Martin has started construction on two major manufacturing projects during 2026. In Troy, Alabama, construction has begun on Munitions Production Center Building 47, an 87,000-square-foot facility that will support THAAD production and provide capacity for potential future Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) manufacturing. The company said the expansion will nearly double the site's existing manufacturing footprint. In Camden, Arkansas, Lockheed Martin is building the Munitions Acceleration Center, which will support increased production of PAC-3 MSE interceptors. Camden is responsible for the final assembly of complete PAC-3 MSE rounds. The company expects the Camden expansion to increase the local workforce by about 50 percent, growing from approximately 1,200 employees to around 1,850 employees. Courtland Facility to Support Next Generation Interceptor In June 2026, Lockheed Martin opened Missile Assembly Building 5 (MAB-5) at its Courtland, Alabama, campus. The 88,000-square-foot facility is dedicated to Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) production and uses digital engineering and advanced manufacturing processes. According to the company, MAB-5 brings together digital manufacturing tools and smart production methods adapted from programs including THAAD and hypersonic systems. Manufacturing at the facility is expected to begin in 2027. "Once again, we are expanding the Courtland campus to meet the national security challenges of today," said Reshondra McInnis, Lockheed Martin Courtland Site Executive. "MAB-5 will shape the local workforce by introducing high-skill jobs to create even more pathways toward advanced manufacturing careers." The Next Generation Interceptor (NGI) is being developed to defend the United States and allied nations against evolving long-range ballistic missile threats. Lockheed Martin stated that the new Courtland facility will help accelerate the program's transition from development into production. The company was selected by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) in 2024 to develop the interceptor. "NGI is more than a 'next generation interceptor', it's a next generation solution to missile defense's most serious threats," said Chris Jewell, Vice President of the Lockheed Martin NGI Program. "We are creating a foundation that enables long-term production, sustainment and mission support with greater adaptability and more resilient defense architecture." PAC-3 Integration With Aegis Combat System Alongside expanding production, Lockheed Martin is also working to broaden the operational use of the PAC-3 interceptor. In April 2026, the U.S. government awarded the company a contract to develop, integrate and test the capability to launch the PAC-3 missile from the Aegis Combat System. Lockheed Martin said the work will expand the flexibility and capacity of the Aegis system. The company plans land-based testing in 2027, while initial operational capability is targeted for later years. According to Lockheed Martin, Aegis is currently deployed aboard more than 120 ships across six nations and is also used in land-based Aegis Ashore operations. Long-Term Manufacturing Investment Lockheed Martin said its $8 billion to $9 billion investment through 2030 will fund modernization efforts across more than 20 U.S. facilities, including sites in Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Massachusetts and Texas. The company stated that the investment will focus on expanding manufacturing capacity, introducing advanced production technologies, strengthening the supply chain, and supporting workforce growth to meet increasing demand for air and missile defense systems. Company officials also noted that more than $1 billion had already been invested in production capacity expansion before the latest multiyear contract awards.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 15:20:00
World
MECCA, Saudi Arabia — Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan have signed the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, a trilateral mutual defence pact stating that an armed attack against any one of the three countries will be treated as an attack against all three. The agreement was signed on Friday during the Makkah Al-Mukarramah Summit for Joint Defence at Al-Safa Palace in Mecca. Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif signed the document after meeting at the invitation of King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud. Pakistan's delegation also included Chief of Defence Forces and Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrived in Saudi Arabia on Thursday for a three-day visit, while President Erdogan traveled to the Kingdom on Friday for the summit. Before the meeting, the Pakistani delegation performed Umrah in Mecca. Collective Defence and Military Cooperation According to the joint statement issued after the summit, the agreement aims to strengthen collective deterrence against external aggression and expand defence cooperation among the three countries. Its main provisions include: An armed attack against one member will be regarded as an attack against all three. Expanded defence cooperation, including intelligence sharing, joint military training and defence technology development. A shared commitment to promoting peace, security and regional stability. Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the agreement builds on the longstanding historical ties, Islamic solidarity and shared strategic interests of the three countries. Builds on Earlier Saudi-Pakistan Defence Pact The new agreement expands the Strategic Mutual Defence Agreement signed by Saudi Arabia and Pakistan in September 2025, which also stated that an attack on one country would be treated as an attack on the other. Turkey has now been formally added to that collective defence framework. A Turkish official described the agreement as purely defensive, saying it is not directed against any specific country or actor, does not replace existing bilateral or multilateral arrangements, and remains open to other regional countries in the future. Strategic Significance The three countries bring different military and strategic capabilities to the partnership. Turkey is a NATO member with the alliance's second-largest military and a growing defence industry. Saudi Arabia is a leading oil exporter and a major political and economic power in the Arab world. Pakistan is the only nuclear-armed Muslim-majority country and has maintained long-standing military cooperation with Saudi Arabia. Turkey and Pakistan have also expanded defence cooperation in recent years, while Saudi Arabia has purchased Turkish-made drones. The agreement follows nearly a year of discussions and comes during heightened security tensions across the Middle East. Will the Agreement Work During a Major War? While the agreement establishes a collective defence principle, one of the biggest unanswered questions is how it would operate during a major conflict. The joint statement does not explain what form military assistance would take or whether support would automatically include combat operations, troop deployments, air defence or other military actions. The operational obligations have not been made public. History shows that mutual defence agreements do not always result in direct military intervention. For example, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan signed a bilateral defence agreement in 2025, yet during periods of Iranian missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, Pakistan did not publicly participate in direct military operations against Iran, and Pakistani authorities did not announce that the agreement had been activated. Another example is Russia's security commitments to Armenia through the Collective Security Treaty Organization (CSTO). During Armenia's conflicts with Azerbaijan, Russia did not directly intervene with combat forces, demonstrating that defence agreements are often influenced by political decisions, treaty interpretation and national interests. Governments also consider the economic and strategic costs of joining a major war. Direct military involvement can affect trade, energy supplies, financial markets and national security, particularly when conflicts involve major regional or global powers. For this reason, countries usually evaluate each crisis individually before deciding the level of support they are willing to provide. The agreement also raises questions about how it would operate in the event of a future India-Pakistan conflict. The treaty does not specify whether Saudi Arabia or Turkey would provide direct military assistance in such a situation. Any response would ultimately depend on political decisions taken at that time, taking into account military, diplomatic, economic and regional security considerations. The Mecca Joint Defence Agreement represents a significant political commitment to deepen defence cooperation among Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan. However, its practical effectiveness can only be assessed if one of its members faces a future security crisis. Until then, the agreement establishes the principle of collective defence, while the exact implementation of its commitments remains undefined.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 14:59:09
U.S
SAN FRANCISCO — IMPACT Drones, Inc., a counter-drone company backed by Y Combinator, has launched Air Defense as a Service (ADaaS), a commercial security system that uses autonomous interceptor drones to protect critical infrastructure from hostile drone attacks. The system is designed for sites including data centers, power grid facilities, airports, and military bases. According to the company, it aims to address the growing challenge of defending fixed infrastructure from increasingly common drone threats. IMPACT said conventional air defense systems are often too expensive for routine protection of civilian infrastructure. Traditional interceptors can cost more than $1 million per engagement, while hostile drones may cost approximately $30,000 to $50,000 to manufacture. This cost imbalance has left many infrastructure operators without an affordable physical defense against aerial threats. The need for such protection was highlighted earlier this year when a drone attack disrupted three Amazon Web Services (AWS) data centers in the Middle East. The incident took a dozen core cloud services offline, and Amazon reported an estimated $200 million loss in a single day. Autonomous Container-Based System The ADaaS system consists of a sealed container permanently installed at the protected site. It does not require dedicated launch crews or launch pads. When external sensors detect a hostile drone, an interceptor automatically breaks through the container's frangible lid and launches toward the target. Using onboard visual navigation, it physically collides with the incoming drone to neutralize the threat. Because the system relies on visual navigation instead of GPS, it can continue operating in environments where Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) signals are jammed or unavailable. HUNTER and SABLE Interceptors IMPACT currently offers two interceptor platforms running the company's common autonomy software. HUNTER is the point-defense interceptor designed to protect the airspace directly above a facility. It can reach speeds of up to 300 km/h and uses electro-optical/long-wave infrared (EO/LWIR) terminal guidance. The company said its hardware lineage is based on systems previously used in Ukraine against Shahed-136, Geran-2, and Gerbera drones. SABLE, which is still under development, is a turbine-powered interceptor with a delta-wing airframe. It is designed to reach speeds of up to 825 km/h to engage faster aerial threats. Subscription-Based Protection Instead of selling individual interceptor missiles, IMPACT is offering the system through a subscription model. The service includes the installed hardware, replacement interceptors, reloads, and continuous monitoring, with pricing scaled to the size of the protected site and expected threat level. "Drones are hitting data centers, substations, and airports today, and the defenses built for armies do not scale down to a single site. So we put the whole thing in a box. It sits at your site, it launches when something hostile comes in, and it rams it out of the sky. You do not buy missiles, you subscribe to safe skies. That is Air Defense as a Service," said Jasper Lortije, Founder and CEO of IMPACT Drones. Pilot Deployments Planned IMPACT Drones is part of Y Combinator's Summer 2026 batch. The launch was announced through Y Combinator's channels, and pilot deployments of the interceptor system are scheduled to begin in the third quarter of 2026. The San Francisco-based company was founded by Jasper Lortije, an aerospace engineer with a master's degree from TU Delft who previously worked on visual navigation systems, and Alessandro Fiume, who has a background in sales. The company said it is seeking partnerships with data center operators, airport managers, and energy infrastructure organizations for future deployments.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 14:32:41
U.S
NOME, Alaska — U.S. joint military forces carried out a multi-domain homeland defense exercise near Nome, Alaska, on August 4 and 6, 2026, integrating fifth-generation fighter aircraft with long-range ground artillery to test their ability to detect, track and engage simulated threats approaching North America through the Arctic. The exercise was conducted under Operation TUNDRA MERLIN, a long-planned homeland defense operation led by U.S. Northern Command and Alaskan Command. The mission focused on improving coordination between air and land forces, validating rapid deployment capabilities, and strengthening joint operations in the Arctic environment. Air and Ground Forces Conduct Integrated Mission The exercise brought together a range of U.S. military assets from the Air Force and Army. Air Force units from Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska, deployed two F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft, two F-16 Fighting Falcons, and a KC-135 Stratotanker for aerial refueling. On the ground, the U.S. Army fielded an M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, supported by an AN/TPQ-53 radar system and soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 5th Infantry Regiment, 1st Mobile Brigade Combat Team (Air Assault), 11th Airborne Division. The entire operation was conducted under the command and control of U.S. Northern Command and Alaskan Command. HIMARS Rapidly Deployed to Nome As part of the exercise, the HIMARS launcher was deployed to Nome on July 31, 2026, demonstrating the military's ability to rapidly move combat systems into remote Arctic locations. The 17th Field Artillery Brigade, I Corps, transported the HIMARS aboard a Royal Canadian Air Force C-17 Globemaster III from Joint Base Lewis-McChord. During the flight, the aircraft also stopped at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, to transport soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division, who later operated alongside the HIMARS and AN/TPQ-53 radar during the mission. F-35s and HIMARS Conduct Long-Range Precision Strike The main objective of the exercise was to integrate airpower with long-range precision fires in a single coordinated mission. After receiving aerial refueling from the KC-135, the F-35s and F-16s flew toward the vicinity of Saint Lawrence Island in the Bering Sea. The F-35s then digitally synchronized with the HIMARS unit on the ground to detect and engage a simulated target approximately 135 miles away, demonstrating coordination between airborne sensors and ground-based precision fires. F-16s Practice Defensive Counterair Operations Alongside the strike mission, the exercise also included defensive counterair training. The F-16 Fighting Falcons were assigned to defend the airspace by intercepting the F-35s, which temporarily acted as simulated inbound threats. This scenario allowed aircrews to practice defensive tactics while operating alongside other joint-force elements. Military Leaders Highlight Joint Force Integration Lt. Gen. Robert Davis, commander of Alaskan Command, the Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Command Region, and the Eleventh Air Force, said the exercise demonstrated the value of integrating air and land capabilities for homeland defense. "This operation demonstrated the power of an integrated joint force capable of layering effects across the air and land domains to strengthen homeland defense," Davis said. "By synchronizing command and control, airpower and long-range precision fires, we strengthened our ability to posture combat-ready forces, eliminate operational seams and demonstrate the credible combat capability required to deter aggression across the Arctic." Maj. Gen. John Cogbill, commander of the 11th Airborne Division, said the deployment showed the Army's ability to rapidly move forces into the Arctic and integrate them with other military capabilities. "This deployment under Operation TUNDRA MERLIN demonstrates our ability to rapidly deploy forces and seamlessly integrate joint capabilities across the Arctic," Cogbill said. "By deploying alongside the HIMARS, we are proving our readiness to deter adversaries by demonstrating lethal, long-range precision capabilities that can hold their assets at risk." Operation TUNDRA MERLIN Supports Arctic Homeland Defense Operation TUNDRA MERLIN is a long-planned and ongoing homeland defense operation conducted by Alaskan Command with U.S. and Canadian partners. The operation integrates joint and multinational forces across the Alaskan theater to strengthen command and control, improve force integration, and maintain combat-ready forces capable of defending the northern approaches to North America. Earlier phases of the operation included a five-day, 800-mile combined maritime patrol conducted from July 20 to 24 in the Bering Sea and Bering Strait. The patrol involved the U.S. Coast Guard Cutters Munro and Storis and the Royal Canadian Navy ship HMCS Max Bernays. Before the August exercise, residents of Nome were notified about increased military activity and planned low-flying aircraft operations. Military officials said all activities were coordinated to minimize disruption to local communities while maintaining readiness for homeland defense missions in the Arctic.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 14:22:01
World
ANKARA, Türkiye — Turkish defense company ASELSAN has announced that its TOLUN-P bunker-penetrating guided munition is ready for operational use following a successful firing test from the Bayraktar AKINCI unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV). The latest test confirmed the weapon's ability to carry out precision strikes against hardened military targets, including underground bunkers, fortified command centers, armored hangars, and reinforced structures. During the test, the Bayraktar AKINCI released the TOLUN-P, which achieved a direct hit on its designated target. ASELSAN also released footage of the test, stating that the bunker-penetrating munition has now reached mission-ready status after completing its development and evaluation process. Derin taarruz, yüksek hassasiyet 🚀.Zırhlı ve betonla korunan hedeflere karşı sahada kuvvet çarpanı olan sığınak delici TOLUN P göreve hazır. ✅@BaykarTech 🤝 #ASELSAN🌐Precision deep strike 🚀. Bunker-penetrating TOLUN P, a battlefield force multiplier against armored… pic.twitter.com/DaYeLnSOr8 — ASELSAN (@aselsan) August 7, 2026 Designed for Hardened Targets The TOLUN-P is part of ASELSAN's 250-pound class of compact precision-guided munitions. According to the company, the weapon has a total weight of 136 kilograms and is equipped with a 105-kilogram penetrator warhead developed to defeat hardened and reinforced targets. One of the weapon's key features is its hardened nose design, which, together with its kinetic energy, enables it to penetrate up to one meter of reinforced concrete before detonation. Instead of exploding immediately after impact, the munition uses an electronically programmable fuze that can be set by the pilot before launch. The delayed detonation allows the warhead to explode inside the target structure, increasing its effectiveness against protected facilities. Guidance and Anti-Jamming Features The TOLUN-P combines Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) guidance with an Inertial Navigation System (INS) to maintain accuracy during flight. ASELSAN says the munition is also equipped with a four-channel Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna (CRPA) and built-in anti-spoofing software designed to help the weapon continue toward its target even if satellite navigation signals are jammed or interfered with. According to official specifications, the munition has a circular error probable (CEP) of less than 10 meters. ASELSAN also states that the weapon can achieve a maximum range of approximately 55 nautical miles (about 102 kilometers) when released from a high-altitude fighter aircraft, while its range is lower when launched from unmanned aerial platforms. SADAK-4T Increases Weapon Capacity The TOLUN-P is designed to operate with ASELSAN's SADAK-4T smart pneumatic quad rack, which enables a single weapons pylon to carry four TOLUN munitions simultaneously. An aircraft equipped with two SADAK-4T racks can carry up to eight TOLUN munitions during a single mission. The system also allows pilots to program the electronic fuzes before release and engage multiple targets in a single sortie. For aircraft that do not use the quad-rack configuration, ASELSAN has also developed the TOLUN-SI, a version with a different mounting interface for single-carriage integration. Development and Testing Development of the TOLUN family began in 2020 to provide Türkiye with a domestically developed precision-guided weapon capable of striking hardened targets. The system was publicly introduced during the IDEF 2021 defense exhibition together with the SADAK-4T rack. Testing started in 2022 with aerodynamic and structural evaluations before expanding to flight-release trials in 2023. Integration was extended to unmanned platforms, including the Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar AKINCI. A major live-fire demonstration took place in December 2025 at a test range in Konya, where a TOLUN munition released from an AKINCI penetrated reinforced concrete and destroyed a UH-1 helicopter positioned beneath it. Later in 2025, ASELSAN also demonstrated a longer-range version of the weapon, successfully striking a target located more than 100 kilometers away after being launched from an F-16 using the SADAK-4T rack. Integration with KIZILELMA ASELSAN has continued integrating the TOLUN-P with additional Turkish air platforms. The weapon has been tested on Baykar's KIZILELMA unmanned combat aircraft, including releases from its internal weapons bay during flight testing. According to ASELSAN, KIZILELMA can carry up to eight TOLUN-P munitions internally using two SADAK-4T racks. Internal carriage enables the aircraft to carry weapons inside the fuselage rather than on external pylons, a configuration used during testing with the platform. Variants of the TOLUN Family In addition to the bunker-penetrating TOLUN-P, ASELSAN has developed several other variants for different operational requirements. These include the TOLUN-F fragmentation variant, TOLUN-L with a laser seeker, TOLUN-IIR equipped with an imaging infrared seeker, and additional configurations designed for different mission profiles. According to ASELSAN, the penetrator warhead was designed by TÜBİTAK SAGE, while the remainder of the weapon system was developed by ASELSAN. Export Deliveries ASELSAN has confirmed that the first export deliveries of TOLUN munitions and SADAK-4T quad racks were completed in 2025. The systems were supplied to customers in the Middle East, Africa, and Asia, although the company has not disclosed the names of the recipient countries. The declaration of mission-ready status following the latest AKINCI firing test marks another step in the operational deployment of the TOLUN family across both manned and unmanned Turkish air platforms.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 12:15:38
U.S
WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. — The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has awarded a contract valued at more than $6 million to DZYNE Technologies, LLC, now part of Ondas Inc., to continue development of the Long-Range Grasshopper autonomous aerial delivery system. The contract supports the advancement of a runway-independent logistics platform designed to deliver supplies over extended distances in contested and austere environments. The award was announced by Ondas on August 6, 2026. Following Ondas' acquisition of DZYNE Technologies in a transaction valued at $875.8 million, all defense-related contract work is now managed through Ondas Sentinel, the company's dedicated U.S. defense division. The Long-Range Grasshopper is part of DZYNE's Grasshopper Family of Systems, which provides autonomous precision aerial resupply for military operations. The systems are designed as low-cost, expendable aircraft that are not intended to be recovered or reused after completing their mission. This approach allows military forces to deliver essential supplies without exposing personnel or high-value aircraft to operational risks. The Grasshopper family includes both a glider version and a turbine-powered Long-Range variant. Both versions are capable of carrying up to 500 pounds of cargo and delivering it with high precision. After being released from a variety of host aircraft, the systems immediately transition into autonomous flight and navigate to pre-planned destinations. According to the company, the glider version has an empty weight of approximately 575 pounds and a maximum launch weight of 1,075 pounds. The turbine-powered Long-Range version has an empty weight of about 650 pounds and a maximum launch weight of 1,700 pounds. Both variants share a 20-foot wingspan. The systems are designed to operate in GPS-denied or GPS-degraded environments using autonomous navigation capabilities. They complete deliveries by deploying a parachute for precision landing at the designated target area. Ondas stated that the estimated production cost is approximately $40,000 per vehicle, supported by low-cost manufacturing methods. The latest contract builds on several years of collaboration between AFRL and the engineering teams now operating under Ondas Sentinel. During a 2024–2025 flight test campaign, the Long-Range Grasshopper successfully demonstrated several key capabilities, including autonomous deployment, jet-engine air-start, extended-range navigation, and precision payload delivery. The flight testing was conducted at locations including Dugway Proving Ground in Utah and the Pendleton UAS Range in Oregon. According to the company, the original Grasshopper glider progressed from a research concept to a fielded capability in less than 12 months, with several dozen units delivered to the U.S. Air Force. Development of the longer-range version began after operational users requested greater delivery range following the initial deployment of the glider system. Under the new AFRL contract, development work will continue on both the Long-Range Grasshopper and the Grasshopper glider. The program will focus on improving extended-range flight and endurance, modular payload integration, autonomous navigation in GPS-limited and GPS-denied environments, and increasing system reliability and manufacturability to support larger-scale fielding. The Long-Range Grasshopper has been developed to support the U.S. Air Force's Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, which emphasizes dispersed operations, flexible force deployment, and scalable logistics. The autonomous delivery system is intended to provide precision resupply from multiple launch platforms while reducing the need for fixed infrastructure and helping keep crewed aircraft outside higher-risk areas. Ondas said the acquisition of DZYNE Technologies expanded its defense capabilities across several mission areas, including multi-domain intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), counter-uncrewed aerial systems (counter-UAS), autonomous effects, aerial security, precision strike, autonomous logistics, and AI-enabled mission orchestration. Commenting on the contract award, Eric Brock, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Ondas, said the agreement supports the company's strategy of building an autonomous defense platform focused on technologies addressing current national security requirements. Ryan Hartman, Chief Executive Officer of Ondas Sentinel, said long-range, low-cost autonomous delivery is becoming an important capability for future military operations and that AFRL's continued partnership reflects the potential of the Grasshopper system to support distributed logistics in contested environments. The Long-Range Grasshopper is part of Ondas Sentinel's broader autonomous defense portfolio, which also includes LEAP, ULTRA, and counter-UAS systems. The new AFRL contract further supports continued development of scalable autonomous logistics technologies for future U.S. defense operations.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 12:10:36
World
WASHINGTON, D.C. — The United States and Ukraine are jointly working to modernize Soviet-era S-300 surface-to-air missiles and develop an improved variant to strengthen Ukraine's air defense capabilities. According to Robert Hamilton, a retired U.S. Army colonel and president of the Delphi Global Research Center, the upgraded system is expected to become operational closer to the end of 2026. Speaking in an interview with PBS NewsHour, Hamilton said the project focuses on upgrading older S-300 interceptor missiles or developing a newer version with improved capabilities. He said production is expected to reach approximately 100 to a couple of hundred interceptor missiles annually once the program is underway. The initiative is part of a broader effort by the United States and Ukraine to sustain Ukraine's existing Soviet-era air defense systems while increasing the availability of interceptor missiles for launchers that remain in service. Program Builds on Earlier U.S. Commitment The modernization effort follows an announcement made in September 2024 during a meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group at Ramstein Air Base, Germany. At the meeting, then-U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said the United States, working with several European companies, was helping Ukraine design and manufacture a replacement for the Soviet-era S-300 surface-to-air missile system as well as the R-27 air-to-air missile. Austin did not provide technical details about the replacement system or its expected capabilities. Supporting Existing Air Defense Systems At the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion, Ukraine operated an estimated 25 to 30 S-300PT and S-300PS battalions in varying states of combat readiness. During more than four years of war, continuous Russian missile and drone attacks significantly reduced Ukraine's stockpile of S-300 interceptor missiles. As a result, Ukraine has increasingly relied on Western-supplied air defense systems and their interceptor missiles to defend against aerial attacks. The joint U.S.-Ukraine effort is intended to increase the availability of interceptor missiles for the S-300 systems that remain in Ukrainian service while supporting the long-term operation of these launchers. Localization Efforts in Ukraine Alongside the joint modernization program, Ukraine's defense industry has been working to localize the production of missiles for the S-300 and S-400 systems. According to earlier reports, this work includes integrating the missiles with European radar systems. Fire Point chief designer Denys Stielerman previously described efforts to develop components for these missiles, including plans for engine production and dynamic testing. These localization efforts are aimed at expanding domestic production capability and supporting the continued operation of existing air defense systems. Norwegian Funding Supports Missile Procurement The modernization program has also received financial support from European partners. In December 2025, the Norwegian government allocated more than 500 million Norwegian kroner for the procurement of S-300 surface-to-air missiles for Ukraine as part of its military assistance package. The funding was provided through the Joint Ukraine Multinational Program Services, Training, and Articles Rapid Timeline (JUMPSTART), a U.S.-run defense procurement mechanism designed to help partner countries rapidly purchase and transfer military equipment to Ukraine. Norway's broader assistance package also included funding for ammunition for F-16 fighter aircraft and advanced precision weapon systems. Part of Broader Air Defense Effort Hamilton said the S-300 modernization project is one of several measures aimed at addressing Ukraine's air defense requirements. He noted that the effort complements other air defense systems, including the French-Italian SAMP/T. While planned production of approximately 100 to a couple of hundred interceptor missiles per year remains limited compared with Ukraine's overall demand, the joint program is intended to improve the availability of missiles for existing S-300 launchers and strengthen the country's air defense network. According to Hamilton, the upgraded S-300 system is expected to reach operational status closer to the end of 2026, marking an important step in the ongoing cooperation between the United States and Ukraine to sustain and modernize Ukraine's air defense capabilities.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 12:02:41
World
BUSAN, South Korea — The Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy has successfully completed its first live combat experiment combining artificial intelligence (AI) with crewed and uncrewed platforms for mine countermeasure operations, marking an important step in the country's efforts to modernize naval warfare. The exercise was conducted on August 3 at the Busan Naval Base in partnership with Hanwha Systems. It evaluated an AI-supported mine warfare system operating under the Navy's Sea GHOST (Guardian Harmonized with Operating manned Systems and Technology based unmanned systems) concept, which focuses on integrating conventional naval vessels with unmanned platforms through Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T). The demonstration tested how artificial intelligence could support commanders in planning and coordinating mine countermeasure missions while keeping human operators in control of all final decisions. Mine Blockade Scenario The exercise was based on a simulated scenario in which enemy forces blocked the Port of Busan with naval mines, preventing safe access to the harbor. To respond to the threat, the Navy deployed a hybrid task group centered on the 730-ton ROKS Ongjin (MSH-572) minesweeper. The vessel operated alongside several unmanned platforms, including an aerial reconnaissance drone, Hanwha Systems' 30-ton unmanned surface vessel (USV), the Haeryeong reconnaissance USV, and an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) designed for mine detection. The unmanned surface vessels were not equipped with operational mine-clearing systems during the trial and instead performed simulated operational roles. AI Supported Mission Planning A key part of the demonstration was the use of a Large Language Model (LLM)-based Automatic Mine Detection System (AMDS), described by the Navy as an "AI combat adviser" and by Hanwha Systems as an AI mission-planning platform. The AI system received natural-language commands and analyzed operational information, including weather conditions and ocean currents, before producing a mine search and sweeping plan. Rather than acting independently, the system submitted its recommendations to the commander aboard ROKS Ongjin. After reviewing and approving the proposed plan, the commander authorized mission assignments for both crewed and unmanned platforms. The exercise demonstrated that AI was used as a decision-support tool, while command authority remained with human personnel. Four Operational Phases Tested During the combat experiment, the Navy evaluated four major stages of mine countermeasure operations. The first phase focused on AI-assisted mission planning, where the system automatically prepared a search strategy using real-time operational information. The second phase tested multi-domain tactical integration, allowing the minesweeper, unmanned surface vessels, autonomous underwater vehicle, and aerial drone to operate through a single network. Communications between the platforms were supported by Eutelsat OneWeb low-Earth-orbit satellite communications. The third phase evaluated real-time target analysis. The Haeryeong USV deployed its onboard autonomous underwater vehicle into the simulated minefield, where it collected underwater information. That data was transmitted in real time to the Automatic Mine Detection System, which processed the information and identified the simulated mine locations. The final phase demonstrated countermeasure procedures, with the unmanned platforms conducting simulated mine neutralization while ROKS Ongjin moved to a safe area to avoid simulated blast damage. Remote Operation Demonstrated The trial also demonstrated the ability to remotely operate the autonomous underwater vehicle and both types of unmanned surface vessels from a land-based control center using Eutelsat OneWeb low-Earth-orbit satellite communications. According to the Navy, the exercise showed that AI-supported planning combined with coordinated crewed and uncrewed operations can improve future mine countermeasure missions by assigning higher-risk tasks to autonomous systems while keeping personnel farther from potential danger. Navy Highlights Future Role of AI Vice Admiral Kwak Kwang-seop, Commander of the Republic of Korea Fleet, said artificial intelligence and unmanned systems will become increasingly important in future naval operations. "AI technology and unmanned systems will become core capabilities on the future maritime battlefield. We must lead the future battlefield through the rapid military application of advanced technology. Moving forward, we will expand civil-government-military collaboration—leveraging Busan as an AI Transformation (AX) hub—to rapidly field AI capabilities and advance our operational capabilities through continuous combat experiments." Commander Lee Kwang-hoon, who leads the ROK Fleet's unmanned systems operations innovation division, said the trial successfully demonstrated the AI decision-support structure. He added that future work will focus on improving the system's accuracy, particularly its ability to distinguish actual naval mines from underwater objects such as rocks and fishing nets. Sea GHOST Development Continues The Sea GHOST concept was first introduced during the ROK Navy's 77th anniversary ceremony in 2022. Since then, South Korean defense companies, including Hanwha Systems and LIG Nex1, have continued developing technologies that support the concept, including anti-submarine warfare unmanned underwater vehicles (ASWUUV), the Haegum series of unmanned surface vessels, and cross-domain data links. The Busan combat experiment forms part of the Navy's broader effort to transition AI-enabled and uncrewed mine countermeasure capabilities from testing into operational fleet service. The ROK Navy plans to conduct additional combat trials as it continues developing future autonomous mine warfare capabilities.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 11:48:53
Europe
STOCKHOLM, — Sweden has signed a seven-year framework agreement with Nammo Sweden for the supply of programmable 30mm and 40mm airburst ammunition, marking another step in strengthening the country's short-range air defense and counter-unmanned aircraft system (counter-UAS) capabilities. Nammo has also received the first call-off order under the agreement, with production of the initial ammunition batch set to begin. The agreement covers Nammo's 30mm x 113 PABEX and 40mm L/70 PABEX programmable ammunition. PABEX (Programmable AirBurst EXplosive) is designed to detonate at a pre-programmed point during flight, allowing its fragments to be concentrated around airborne targets rather than requiring a direct impact. Designed for Air and Ground Threats According to Nammo, the programmable rounds are designed to engage unmanned aerial systems (UAS), incoming missiles, and helicopters. The ammunition also remains effective against conventional surface and ground targets, providing greater operational flexibility for the Swedish Armed Forces. Programmable airburst ammunition is particularly effective against small, fast-moving, or maneuvering aerial targets because it can be set to explode at a selected point near the target, increasing the likelihood of a successful engagement. Integration with Existing Swedish Defense Systems The new ammunition will primarily be integrated with two key Swedish air-defense systems: the Trackfire remote weapon station and the TRIDON Mk2 mobile air-defense system. The TRIDON Mk2 is a truck-mounted 40mm anti-aircraft gun system developed to provide highly mobile short-range air defense. The integration of programmable airburst ammunition is intended to improve its ability to counter evolving aerial threats. The agreement also benefits Sweden's existing fleet of CV90 infantry fighting vehicles. Since many CV90 vehicles are already equipped with 40mm Bofors guns, they are fully compatible with the 40mm L/70 PABEX ammunition. This provides the vehicles with an additional capability to engage aerial threats without requiring new platforms or extensive vehicle modifications. Supporting Sweden's Counter-Drone Efforts Nammo said the framework agreement supports Sweden's efforts to strengthen its national air defense and counter-UAS capabilities. The ammunition is designed to combine precision and flexibility against a broad range of threats while making use of existing gun systems already in service. The agreement also aligns with wider efforts by European armed forces to improve defenses against the growing use of unmanned systems on modern battlefields through upgrades to existing air-defense platforms. Nammo Highlights Long-Term Partnership Commenting on the agreement, Morten Brandtzæg, President and CEO of Nammo, said the contract represents an important milestone in the company's partnership with Sweden. "As a trusted partner to Sweden, this agreement marks an important step in further strengthening Swedish defense capabilities. By delivering cutting-edge ammunition solutions, we are helping our customers stay ahead of evolving threats and meet future operational challenges." Financial Details Not Disclosed Nammo stated that the seven-year framework agreement reinforces its position as a supplier of ammunition for modern air-defense operations. While the company confirmed receipt of the first call-off order, it did not disclose the value of the agreement or the quantity of ammunition included in the initial purchase. The agreement and the first production order were announced on Aug. 7, 2026, with no additional financial or procurement details released by Nammo or Swedish authorities.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 11:42:33
World
TEL AVIV, Israel — The Israeli Ministry of Defense, in cooperation with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency (MDA), successfully completed a planned test of the Arrow Weapon System on Wednesday from a test site in central Israel, marking another step in the long-term modernization of Israel's upper-tier missile defense capabilities. The test was conducted by the Israeli Missile Defense Organization (IMDO), part of the Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), together with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), and the U.S. MDA. Senior officials from both Israel and the United States were present during the launch. The exercise formed part of a multi-year development program focused on upgrading the Arrow Weapon System to address evolving ballistic missile threats. According to the Ministry of Defense, the latest test evaluated new technological improvements that will support the continued deployment of the system within the IDF. Key Layer of Israel's Air Defense Network The Arrow Weapon System is the highest layer of Israel's multi-tiered air and missile defense architecture. It includes the Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 interceptors and operates alongside David's Sling, Iron Dome, and Iron Beam. The system is designed to intercept ballistic missiles at high altitudes and, in the case of Arrow 3, outside the Earth's atmosphere using hit-to-kill technology. It relies on the Green Pine and Super Green Pine radar systems to detect and classify threats before transmitting data through an advanced command-and-control and fire control network. The Israeli Air Force's Air Defense Command operates the system. Over the past three years, Arrow 2 and Arrow 3 have been used operationally to intercept ballistic missile threats launched toward Israel from Iran and Yemen, including interceptions carried out in space and the exo-atmosphere. New Technologies Integrated Into the System Israeli defense officials said the latest phase of development incorporates advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, lessons learned from recent combat operations, and a transition toward automated manufacturing. IMDO Director Moshe Patel said the recent conflict, which he referred to as the "War of Redemption," demonstrated the importance of Israel's multi-layered air defense system. "In this test, we completed an important and significant stage in the development of the Arrow Weapon System," Patel said. "In these new developments, we incorporated advanced technologies, artificial intelligence, the application of combat lessons, and a move into automated manufacturing." He added that the successful trial represents another step toward equipping the Israel Defense Forces with the upgraded system. Joint Israeli-U.S. Development The Arrow Weapon System is jointly developed and produced by Israel and the United States. Israel Aerospace Industries serves as the prime contractor through its Systems, Missiles & Space Group, while its ELTA Group develops the radar array. Elbit Systems is responsible for the fire control system. Additional interceptor development involves government-owned Tomer, Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, and U.S.-based STARK Aerospace. Overall development and production are managed by the Israeli Ministry of Defense through IMDO in partnership with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency. Flight Test Produced Data for Future Improvements According to officials, the latest launch generated valuable flight data that will be used to improve future versions of the system. The Ministry of Defense said Israel is continuing to increase interceptor production and expand stockpiles while advancing next-generation missile defense capabilities, including work on the Arrow 4 program. During the test, a visible trail from one of the interceptors was observed over several areas, including Ashdod, leading to brief public concern before the Ministry of Defense confirmed it was part of the planned exercise. Flight paths at Ben Gurion Airport were also temporarily adjusted during the activity. Israeli Officials Highlight Continued Modernization Defense Minister Israel Katz said the successful test demonstrated the strength of Israel's defense industry and technological capabilities. He said the Arrow system has already proven its effectiveness during wartime by intercepting numerous threats from Iran and other areas and that Israel continues to upgrade the system to address current and future threats while investing in advanced defense technologies alongside strengthening its offensive capabilities. Israel Ministry of Defense Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram said the country remains focused on expanding production capacity and improving missile defense capabilities following recent operations involving Iran. He said interceptor stockpiles continue to grow as a result of decisions taken over the past year, supported by continuously evolving technologies. Industry Leaders Stress Long-Term Development IAI Chairman Boaz Levy said the Arrow system continues to play an important role in Israel's defense against ballistic missile threats and reflects the long-standing partnership between Israel and the United States. He added that continued technological development has attracted interest from allied countries while strengthening Israel's security and defense industry. Head of the Directorate of Defense Research & Development, Brig. Gen. (Res.) Dr. Daniel Gold, said the latest engineering improvements combine lessons learned from recent combat operations with long-term planning to address future threats and strengthen Israel's aerial defense capabilities. IAI President and CEO Guy Bar Lev said the data collected during the test will support engineers working on the next generation of aerial defense systems, helping improve future capabilities to identify, classify, track, and intercept emerging airborne threats. The successful test represents another milestone in the ongoing modernization of the Arrow Weapon System as Israel and the United States continue their joint efforts to strengthen protection against current and future ballistic missile threats.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-07 11:24:09
U.S
DAYTON, Ohio — The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) has issued a Request for Information (RFI) seeking industry partners to help establish a KC-135 Electrified Boom Automation Lab, a new research facility that will support the development and testing of automated aerial refueling boom technology for the KC-135 Stratotanker. The notice, published on Aug. 6, 2026, is part of the Air Force's broader Combat Refueling and Operations Networked Universal Systems (CRONUS) program. Companies interested in participating in the project when it moves to a formal contract have until Sept. 6, 2026, to submit responses. The planned laboratory will use an actual KC-135 tail section fitted with a movable refueling boom, allowing researchers to evaluate automated boom operations in a controlled ground environment before moving to flight testing. KC-135 Tail Section to Be Installed at Wright-Patterson AFB According to the RFI, the government will acquire a KC-135 tail section, complete with a movable refueling boom, from the 309th Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group (AMARG) at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. The equipment will be provided to the selected contractor as government-furnished equipment. The tail section will be installed inside a motion capture laboratory operated by the Air Force Institute of Technology (AFIT) at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. The laboratory uses arrays of wall- and ceiling-mounted cameras to capture highly accurate movement data, enabling engineers to study complex mechanical motion with precision. Contractor Will Design Support and Motion Systems Under the proposed project, the selected contractor will be responsible for designing a structural support system capable of holding the full weight of the KC-135 tail section while allowing it to move during testing. The contractor must also develop an overhead actuation system that enables the refueling boom to move through its complete operating range, including yaw, pitch, and probe extension. The Air Force specified that no equipment may be placed on the laboratory floor if it could obstruct the motion capture cameras or interfere with their line of sight. Supporting Future Automated Aerial Refueling KC-135 aerial refueling operations are currently performed manually by a boom operator positioned at the rear of the aircraft. During a refueling mission, the operator controls the extendable boom and guides it into the receiving aircraft's fuel receptacle. The new automation laboratory will allow researchers to move a real refueling boom through its full range of motion while recording detailed movement data. The controlled environment will support the development, refinement, and testing of automated or robotic boom control systems before they are evaluated during flight testing. Modernization Effort Comes Amid Continued KC-135 Reliance The automation initiative comes as the Air Force continues to depend heavily on the KC-135 fleet despite the aircraft's age. Earlier in 2026, during Operation Epic Fury, the fleet experienced significant operational losses. On March 12, a KC-135 crashed in western Iraq following a midair collision with another tanker, killing all six crew members aboard. The Air Force described it as the first loss of a KC-135, or any Air Force tanker, in 13 years. Two days later, an Iranian missile strike on Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia damaged five additional KC-135 aircraft parked on the flight line. Air Force officials later said the damaged aircraft are expected to return to service, although repairs to the most heavily damaged airframes could take one to two years. Some reports based on satellite imagery suggested additional tanker damage during the campaign, but those claims have not been independently confirmed through official sources. Aging Fleet Continues Flying as KC-46 Faces Challenges According to U.S. Air Force fact sheets, the final KC-135 rolled off the production line in 1965, meaning aircraft still flying operational missions are approaching six decades of service. The aircraft's planned replacement, the KC-46A Pegasus, has faced continued development and production challenges. These include a production pause in 2025 after structural cracks were discovered in multiple aircraft, along with ongoing technical issues involving its aerial refueling boom system, as identified by the Pentagon's testing office. As a result, the KC-135 remains the Air Force's primary aerial refueling workhorse while the KC-46 program continues to address those issues. Center Console Refresh Program Progressing in Parallel The boom automation effort is one of several modernization programs aimed at extending the operational life of the KC-135 fleet. A separate initiative known as the Center Console Refresh (CCR) program, managed from Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, is focused on modernizing the aircraft's cockpit instrumentation console. Since early 2025, the program has advanced through industry questions, draft solicitations, industry engagement activities, and other acquisition milestones, and remains in an advanced stage of the procurement process. Supporting the Future of the KC-135 Fleet The KC-135 Electrified Boom Automation Lab and the Center Console Refresh (CCR) program demonstrate the Air Force's continued investment in maintaining and improving its legacy tanker fleet. By creating a dedicated ground-based facility for automated boom research while upgrading cockpit systems, the Air Force aims to keep the KC-135 operational and effective as work continues on resolving technical and production challenges affecting the KC-46A Pegasus program.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 16:56:20
U.S
HONOLULU, Hawaii — Firestorm Labs has successfully demonstrated at-sea manufacturing by producing 3D-printed drones and hundreds of spare parts aboard the U.S. Navy's Wasp-class amphibious assault ship USS Essex while the vessel was sailing to Hawaii for the Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2026 exercise. The demonstration showed how a containerized manufacturing system can support naval operations by allowing drones and repair parts to be produced directly aboard a warship instead of relying on shore-based supply chains. Containerized Microfactory Produces Drones at Sea The production was carried out using Firestorm Labs' xCell system, a transportable microfactory housed inside standard shipping containers. The platform combines additive manufacturing (3D printing), digital preparation tools, automation, and assembly stations to manufacture unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and replacement parts in operational environments. During approximately two weeks at sea, the xCell system produced more than 1,000 components and manufactured 12 Squall first-person view (FPV) drones aboard USS Essex. The Squall is a light electric FPV quadcopter with a largely printable airframe. According to Firestorm Labs, it can reach speeds of up to about 80 mph, has a range of up to 20 miles, provides around 42 minutes of flight time, and can carry a payload of roughly 5.5 pounds. Components that cannot be printed, including batteries, motors, flight controllers, cameras, and radio systems, are supplied as kits and integrated during assembly. Manufacturing Continued in Challenging Sea Conditions The production and assembly process continued while USS Essex operated in sea conditions with waves reaching 12 feet, equivalent to Sea State 5. Service members from the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and other participating units took part in printing, assembling, and supporting the manufacturing process aboard the ship. The demonstration formed part of the Naval Postgraduate School's Consortium for Advanced Manufacturing Research and Education (CAMRE) distributed advanced manufacturing network and was facilitated by FLEETWERX. Drones Used During RIMPAC 2026 Exercise After USS Essex arrived in Hawaii, the newly produced Squall drones were used during training activities at Makua Military Reservation on Oahu. Marines from the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion operated the drones after receiving training from Firestorm Labs personnel on additive manufacturing, drone assembly, and flight operations. During the exercise, the drones served as "red cell" adversary aircraft in a counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) training scenario, supporting experimentation under the Naval Postgraduate School's CAMRE program during RIMPAC 2026. On-Demand Production of Repair Parts In addition to manufacturing drones, the xCell microfactory produced a variety of repair and maintenance items requested by the USS Essex crew. According to Firestorm Labs, printed items included: Gauges for deck tie-down inspections Reverse-engineered valve handwheels A non-conductive digging knife A deployment mount for Starlink internet hardware Mechanical test articles used to evaluate printer performance during operations at sea An Apache Rotor Guard droop stop designed to protect helicopter rotor systems Multiple versions of a Life Preserving Unit vacuum adapter, developed from a sailor's concept for testing inflatable safety equipment More than 20 additional crew-requested parts The company said these parts were manufactured directly aboard the ship without waiting for delivery from shore or resupply vessels. Reducing Logistics Requirements Firestorm Labs said manufacturing equipment onboard reduces the need to transport replacement parts through long supply chains. According to the company: "Every part xCell printed on deck is one that doesn't need to be flown or shipped across contested waters — cutting the fuel, aircraft hours, and personnel it takes to keep a ship operational." The company added that repairs which previously could require days or weeks while waiting for replacement parts can instead be completed within hours while the ship remains deployed. Supporting the Navy's Containerized Capability Strategy The demonstration aligns with the U.S. Navy's broader effort to expand the use of modular and containerized systems that can be deployed across different ships. In March 2026, Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle announced the Navy's "containerized capability campaign plan" during the McAleese Defense Programs conference. Speaking about the initiative, Caudle said: "I want to containerize everything." He described a concept in which standardized shipping containers carrying capabilities such as drones, weapons, and sensors could be installed on different vessels and moved between operational regions as needed. The approach is intended to provide greater flexibility while using standardized engineering, interfaces, and integration with combat and communications systems. Pentagon Expanding Containerized Weapons Programs The Department of Defense is also expanding containerized military capabilities beyond manufacturing. In May 2026, the Pentagon announced the Low-Cost Containerized Munitions (LCCM) program, signing framework agreements with Anduril, CoAspire, Leidos, and Zone 5. Under the program, the Department of Defense plans to acquire more than 10,000 containerized missiles over a three-year period beginning in 2027. The initiative reflects the Pentagon's broader focus on modular, transportable systems that can rapidly increase military capability while complementing existing platforms. Demonstration of At-Sea Manufacturing The USS Essex trial demonstrated that containerized manufacturing can operate under real maritime conditions while supporting both unmanned aircraft production and ship maintenance. By producing drones and repair parts directly aboard the ship, the demonstration provided a practical example of how distributed manufacturing could reduce dependence on traditional logistics and improve operational support during deployed naval missions.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 16:52:18
World
TAIPEI — Shield AI and Taiwan's National Chung-Shan Institute of Science and Technology (NCSIST) have successfully completed a coordinated autonomous drone swarm exercise using three Mighty Hornet III unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), demonstrating AI-enabled autonomous teaming and expanding their partnership to integrate the technology across more of Taiwan's unmanned defense systems. The field demonstration marked the completion of the organizations' initial contract, which was signed less than three months ago, and resulted in a significant expansion of the agreement. Under the renewed partnership, NCSIST will continue integrating Shield AI's Hivemind autonomy software into a broader range of its unmanned platforms to support multi-system operations from a single ground control station. Autonomous Swarm Demonstration During the exercise, Shield AI's Hivemind autonomy software controlled three NCSIST Mighty Hornet III drones throughout a coordinated search mission. The AI system autonomously launched all three aircraft, divided a wide-area search mission into separate sectors, assigned each UAV its own search area, and coordinated their movements in real time. Throughout the operation, the drones maintained communication with one another while carrying out their assigned tasks. The swarm also identified and navigated around a designated partial no-fly zone while continuing the mission. After completing the search operation, Hivemind executed synchronized autonomous landings for all three aircraft without direct human piloting. Integration Completed in Less Than Three Months The demonstration was completed less than three months after Shield AI and NCSIST formalized their initial agreement to integrate Hivemind into Taiwan's intelligent unmanned systems. As part of the project, embedded Shield AI engineers worked alongside Taiwanese developers, providing hands-on technical training and operational support. The collaboration enabled NCSIST engineers to independently integrate, operate, and employ the Hivemind-enabled capabilities. NCSIST President Li Shih-chiang said the institute achieved a high level of operational proficiency within a short period. "With Shield AI's support, NCSIST achieved a high level of operational proficiency with Hivemind in less than three months," Li said. "What impressed us most was not only the high performance of the AI pilot, but Shield AI's commitment to ensuring we could independently operate and employ the technology in such a short period of time. Their hands-on training and technical expertise and mentorship gave Taiwanese engineers the confidence to integrate and use Hivemind on our own." Hivemind AI Pilot Hivemind is Shield AI's autonomy software designed to function as an AI pilot that enables military platforms to sense, decide, and act independently without continuous human intervention. Unlike conventional autopilot systems that primarily follow pre-planned routes, Hivemind can adjust flight paths, avoid obstacles, and continue operating in environments where communications and GPS signals are degraded or jammed. According to Shield AI, Hivemind has been used to pilot more than 30 different platforms, including F-16 fighter aircraft, helicopters, jet-powered UAVs, drone boats, and ground vehicles. Mighty Hornet III UAV The autonomous mission was carried out using NCSIST's Mighty Hornet III, a Group 2 X-wing unmanned aircraft jointly developed by NCSIST and private industry partners. The UAV features a modular, 3D-printed airframe designed for relatively fast and low-cost production without relying on heavy factory machinery. It combines vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) capability with the high-speed cruise performance of a fixed-wing aircraft, allowing it to operate without specialized ground launch or recovery equipment. The Mighty Hornet III is also equipped with domestically produced high-density batteries and an electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor for target identification. Partnership Expansion Following the successful demonstration, Shield AI and NCSIST agreed to expand their cooperation beyond the initial project. The next phase will focus on integrating Hivemind into additional NCSIST unmanned systems, enabling multiple autonomous platforms to operate together under the control of a single ground control station. Shield AI President and Co-founder Brandon Tseng said autonomy is becoming an essential capability for operating large numbers of unmanned systems. "You can build ten million drones, but you can't train ten million drone pilots. Autonomy is the critical enabling technology to effectively leverage drones on the battlefield," Tseng said. "Hivemind's ability to enable autonomous teaming is why autonomy is becoming one of the most important force multipliers in modern defense. Enabling sovereign development of AI pilots in Taiwan greatly enhances the defense capabilities of the country and we look forward to continuing to build with partners like NCSIST to deliver the mission autonomy Taiwan needs to deter conflict." Supporting Taiwan's Autonomous Defense Capabilities The successful field demonstration concludes the first phase of cooperation between Shield AI and NCSIST while laying the foundation for broader deployment of AI-enabled autonomy across Taiwan's unmanned systems. The expanded partnership will support future multi-platform autonomous operations by integrating Hivemind into additional NCSIST platforms under the new agreement.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 16:39:59
India
NEW DELHI — Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh on Thursday chaired a meeting of the Parliamentary Consultative Committee for the Ministry of Defence in New Delhi, where discussions focused on the role, mandate and future strengthening of the Territorial Army. During the meeting, senior officials presented a detailed briefing on the force's responsibilities, operational role and key achievements, while committee members offered suggestions aimed at further enhancing its effectiveness. Addressing the meeting, Rajnath Singh described the Territorial Army's contribution as "significant" in supporting Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government's vision of 'Viksit Bharat'. He said that while the regular armed forces are primarily responsible for national defence and security, the Territorial Army also makes important contributions in areas such as environmental conservation, disaster response and social service. The Defence Minister said the Territorial Army is a living embodiment of the "Citizen-Soldier" concept. Under this concept, volunteers continue their civilian professions during normal times but undergo military training and wear the uniform whenever they are called upon for national service. They can be mobilised to support the regular armed forces in protecting the country's borders, maintaining internal security and assisting civil authorities during emergencies and natural disasters. He noted that the Citizen-Soldier model enables the country to maintain a trained reserve force without keeping all personnel on full-time active military duty. According to Rajnath Singh, Territorial Army personnel not only strengthen national security when deployed but also serve as a link between the armed forces and society after returning to civilian life, encouraging young people to consider careers in the defence services. The Defence Minister said the Territorial Army creates additional operational capacity for the armed forces by maintaining a reserve of trained personnel who can be deployed whenever required. He added that after completing their tenure, these personnel continue contributing to society while promoting awareness about the armed forces within their communities. The Territorial Army currently comprises approximately 44,400 personnel organised into 59 diverse units, making it an important reserve component of India's defence structure. Its personnel are trained to undertake a wide range of duties whenever the need arises. Highlighting the force's role in disaster management, Rajnath Singh described the Territorial Army as one of the country's first responders during natural calamities. He acknowledged its contribution in relief and rescue operations as well as medical assistance during the Kerala floods, Odisha cyclone, and the recent floods in Assam, where its personnel supported civil authorities and assisted affected communities. The Defence Minister also praised the Territorial Army's contribution to environmental conservation through its Ecological Task Forces. He said these specialised units have planted approximately 10 crore saplings across the country, with a reported survival rate of 80–85 percent. According to him, the initiative supports the Prime Minister's Mission LiFE and Panchamrit goals by promoting environmental protection and climate change mitigation through on-ground action. Rajnath Singh further appreciated the efforts of Territorial Army units deployed in Jammu and Kashmir, particularly for supporting and expanding the reach of the Har Ghar Tiranga campaign. The meeting was attended by Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth, Chief of Defence Staff General NS Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Finance) Vishvajit Sahay, along with other senior officials from the Ministry of Defence. Territorial Army and India's Security The Territorial Army is a voluntary reserve force that supports the regular Indian Army whenever additional manpower is required. Its personnel continue their civilian occupations during peacetime and undergo military training before being called for active service when needed. This allows the armed forces to quickly increase their operational strength during national emergencies, security requirements, disaster response operations and other assigned duties. According to the Defence Minister, the force plays an important role in supporting border security, maintaining internal security, assisting civil administration during emergencies, participating in disaster relief operations and contributing to environmental conservation through its specialised Ecological Task Forces. Citizen-Soldier Concept The Citizen-Soldier concept is based on trained volunteers who balance civilian careers with military responsibilities. Rather than serving as full-time soldiers throughout the year, members remain part of the civilian workforce but can be mobilised after training whenever the nation requires their service. This model provides countries with a trained reserve force that can reinforce regular military units during emergencies while allowing members to continue contributing to the economy and society in their civilian professions. Territorial Army Concept in Other Democracies The Citizen-Soldier model is used by several democratic countries as part of their defence systems. Nations such as the United States through the National Guard and Reserve components, the United Kingdom through the Army Reserve, Australia through the Army Reserve, Canada through the Primary Reserve, France through its operational reserve system, and several other democracies maintain reserve military forces that supplement their regular armed forces when required. These reserve organisations are designed to provide additional trained manpower for national defence, homeland security, disaster response and support to civil authorities while allowing members to pursue civilian careers during normal times. India's Territorial Army follows the same broad Citizen-Soldier principle while carrying out responsibilities assigned under the country's defence framework.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 16:06:07
India
New Delhi — France has officially submitted its detailed technical and commercial proposal to India for the acquisition of 114 Rafale multirole fighter aircraft under a government-to-government (G2G) agreement, marking a significant step forward in one of the Indian Air Force's (IAF) largest fighter procurement programmes. The proposal was submitted to the Acquisition Wing of the Ministry of Defence and the Indian Air Force after India issued a Letter of Request (LoR) to France in May this year. Defence officials are now evaluating the proposal before the programme advances to formal commercial and technical negotiations. Deal Estimated at Around Rs 3.25 Lakh Crore The proposed acquisition is estimated to be worth around Rs 3.25 lakh crore (approximately $39 billion). A key feature of the French offer is its emphasis on manufacturing the majority of the aircraft in India. According to defence sources, 94 of the 114 Rafale fighter jets are proposed to be produced in India through a partnership with a local industry partner, while the remaining aircraft would be supplied in fully built condition. The production programme will involve Dassault Aviation along with its major partners, including Safran for engines, Thales for avionics and electronics, and MBDA for missile systems. Focus on Indigenous Manufacturing The proposal places strong emphasis on increasing indigenous manufacturing and expanding India's aerospace industrial base. Indian officials are closely examining the French offer, particularly the provisions related to integrating indigenous weapons such as variants of the Astra air-to-air missile into the aircraft. The level of indigenous content and local manufacturing commitments is also a major part of the ongoing evaluation. If implemented, the programme is expected to generate business opportunities worth around Rs 1.6 lakh crore for Indian companies, including Tata Advanced Systems, Larsen & Toubro, and several other domestic defence suppliers. Addressing IAF's Fighter Shortfall The procurement is intended to help address the Indian Air Force's declining fighter squadron strength. The IAF is gradually retiring older aircraft, including Russian-origin MiG variants, while the induction of indigenous fighter programmes such as the LCA Mark 1A and LCA Mark 2 has faced delays. The Air Force currently operates around 32 fighter squadrons, compared with an assessed requirement of about 40 squadrons for a two-front operational scenario. According to the proposal, aircraft delivered under this programme are expected to begin entering service from 2029–30. Rafale to Remain a Key Part of Future Fleet The Rafale was selected by the Ministry of Defence in 2012 following a global competition and is expected to remain a major part of the Indian Air Force's future combat fleet. The Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) approved the proposal for the procurement of 114 Rafale aircraft about five months ago. The acquisition forms part of broader efforts by the Ministry of Defence to strengthen the Air Force following a capability study initiated under Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh after he assumed office in 2024. India's Rafale Fleet Could Exceed 200 Aircraft India has already placed orders for 62 Rafale aircraft, including 36 aircraft for the Indian Air Force and 26 Rafale Marine fighters for the Indian Navy. If the proposed purchase of 114 additional aircraft is approved, India's Rafale fleet would increase to 176 aircraft. The Indian Navy has also indicated its interest in acquiring 31 additional Rafale Marine aircraft for maritime operations. If that requirement is approved in the future, India's total Rafale inventory could exceed 200 aircraft. First Rafale Production Line Outside France The proposed programme would also mark the first time Rafale fighter aircraft are manufactured outside France. Earlier Indian contracts for 36 Rafale fighters for the Air Force and 26 Rafale Marine aircraft for the Navy involved fully built aircraft manufactured and delivered from France. With France's detailed proposal now submitted, the process will move toward formal commercial and technical negotiations as India continues its evaluation of the offer. If approved, the programme would combine a large-scale fighter acquisition with expanded domestic manufacturing involving both French and Indian defence industries.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 15:55:35
World
SUMY OBLAST, Ukraine — Russian forces have reportedly crossed the Ukrainian border near the villages of Bruski and Bunyakino in northeastern Sumy Oblast, opening a new tactical axis of advance along the northern front, according to operational reports. The reported incursion took place in the Seim River floodplain, close to a heavily wooded area locally known as the State Forest. Reports state that Russian troops have taken control of approximately 12 square kilometers of territory following the advance. Advance Reported in Seim River Floodplain According to the reports, Russian units crossed the border near Bruski and Bunyakino, two small villages in the Konotop district of Sumy Oblast located close to the Russian border. Bunyakino, also referred to in some reports as Bunyachine or Bunyakine, lies about 5 kilometers from the right bank of the Seim River, with Bruski located nearby. The surrounding area consists of floodplain terrain and forested sections that can influence troop movement and defensive positions. The Seim River is a major tributary of the Desna River, flowing through Russia's Kursk Oblast before entering Ukraine's Sumy and Chernihiv oblasts. Putivl Identified as Key Operational Direction Military analysts cited in the reports say the advance near Bruski and Bunyakino opens a new operational direction toward the town of Putivl, located approximately 22 kilometers from the Russian border. Putivl serves as an important logistical hub and sits on the regional road network connecting Sumy, Shostka, and Novgorod-Seversky. According to the assessments, if Russian forces maintain their advance and disrupt the Sumy–Putivl–Shostka highway, Ukrainian military logistics and supply routes supporting operations across northeastern Sumy Oblast and parts of eastern Chernihiv Oblast could become more difficult. Other Military Activity Reported in the Region The reported border crossing comes alongside other Russian military activity in the region. Reports indicate Russian troops are expanding positions west of the recently captured settlement of Ryazhevka, an area that previously served as a Ukrainian fortified position opposite the Russian settlement of Tyotkino in Kursk Oblast. At the same time, Sumy Oblast has experienced an increase in aerial attacks. According to regional reports, Russian forces have carried out strikes using guided aerial bombs and combat drones over the past 48 hours. Recent strikes on the city of Sumy and nearby communities reportedly caused civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. Ukrainian Response According to the reports, Ukrainian defense forces are repositioning units to respond to the new direction of the reported advance. Local authorities continue evacuation efforts in vulnerable border communities as fighting remains active along parts of the northern frontier. Part of Ongoing Border Operations The Bruski-Bunyakino area forms part of the wider border zone in northern Sumy Oblast, where Russian forces have conducted cross-border operations at multiple locations since early 2025. Ukrainian officials and open-source monitoring groups, including DeepState, have previously documented Russian activity near settlements including Hrabovske, Novenke, Zhuravka, Yunakivka, and Khotin. Recent Ukrainian military statements have described continued attempts by small Russian assault groups and infantry units to cross the border, with Ukrainian forces responding using artillery, drones, and border guard units. Independent Verification Not Yet Available At the time of publication, no independent confirmation from major Ukrainian military sources or international news organizations was available specifically verifying the reported border crossing near Bruski and Bunyakino or the reported capture of approximately 12 square kilometers of territory. The reported developments are consistent with the broader pattern of localized fighting observed along the Sumy border throughout 2025 and into 2026, where military activity has largely focused on areas close to the international border rather than deep advances toward the city of Sumy. Ukrainian authorities and military officials continue to monitor the situation as operations remain ongoing along the northern border. Source : en.topwar.ru
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 15:42:45
U.S
UTAH — A Kratos Defense XQ-58 Valkyrie uncrewed aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff during a company-funded research and development (R&D) test at the U.S. Army's Dugway Proving Ground in Utah on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2026, prompting the company to temporarily suspend flight testing of that specific system while an investigation is conducted. According to Kratos, the aircraft involved was a test configuration of the Valkyrie operating as part of the company's ongoing efforts to develop new configurations and capabilities. The incident occurred after the drone took off from a test-range runway at Michael Army Airfield, with the cause of the crash still under investigation. An installation spokesperson at Dugway Proving Ground confirmed that an unspecified uncrewed aircraft crashed at approximately 8:00 a.m. local time shortly after takeoff. Officials said the aircraft was not owned or operated by the U.S. military. There were no injuries, no fatalities, and no damage to base infrastructure or buildings. Base representatives did not identify the aircraft type, but Kratos later confirmed it was one of its XQ-58 Valkyrie drones. In a statement, Kratos said: "A Kratos test configuration of Valkyrie experienced a mishap following takeoff from a test-range runway on Tuesday, August 4, 2026. This was a Kratos internally funded R&D event, part of continually adding configurations and capabilities." The company added: "No one was injured in the incident. As safety is our top priority, flight test operations for this system have been paused temporarily in an abundance of caution while we investigate the cause of the incident." Kratos also confirmed that it has additional test systems available and intends to resume testing once the investigation is completed. Runway-Capable Valkyrie Under Development Kratos declined to disclose the exact configuration of the aircraft involved, stating that doing so could affect the ongoing investigation. However, the company's confirmation that the drone departed from a test-range runway indicates it was likely one of the Valkyrie variants developed for conventional runway operations, rather than relying solely on the aircraft's original launch method. The original XQ-58 Valkyrie, which first flew in 2019, was designed to launch using a rocket-assisted system from a static launcher and recover using a parachute. As development progressed, Kratos introduced a launch trolley to support runway takeoffs and later announced a Conventional Takeoff and Landing (CTOL) variant equipped with built-in landing gear while retaining the ability to use rocket-assisted launches when required. In August 2024, Kratos announced development of the CTOL version. Later, in January 2026, the company said the first flight target for that variant had shifted to early 2026. Platform Continues to Support U.S. Military Programs The XQ-58 Valkyrie remains one of Kratos' key uncrewed combat aircraft programs and has been used to support the development of affordable autonomous aircraft for future military operations. The U.S. Air Force became the first known operator of the Valkyrie after its initial flights in 2019. The platform is also being developed for the U.S. Marine Corps under the Marine Air-Ground Task Force Uncrewed Expeditionary Tactical Aircraft (MUX TACAIR) Collaborative Combat Aircraft program. Kratos has confirmed that the runway-capable version, sometimes referred to as the MQ-58B, is being developed in part for this effort. The Marine Corps plans to receive its first MQ-58 aircraft in 2029 and has already carried out testing with earlier XQ-58 variants. Beyond the United States, the Valkyrie program has also attracted international interest. Kratos has partnered with Airbus to develop a version of the aircraft for the German Luftwaffe. Dugway Remains a Major UAS Test Site The test took place at Michael Army Airfield, located within Dugway Proving Ground, which is regularly used for testing by both the U.S. military and defense companies. The proving ground supports a wide range of research, development, testing, and evaluation activities, including work involving uncrewed aircraft systems and programs focused on defense against chemical and biological threats. Kratos Explains Its Development Approach Speaking after the incident, Steve Fendley, President of Kratos' Unmanned Systems Division, said the company could not discuss the exact aircraft configuration because it is directly related to the ongoing investigation. Fendley said Kratos continually expands the capabilities of its unmanned systems to meet future operational requirements and customer needs. He also described the company's development philosophy as one that aims to accelerate innovation by accepting that occasional setbacks may occur during research and development. According to Fendley, Kratos focuses on rapidly improving its systems, learning from testing outcomes, and moving development forward more quickly than traditional defense acquisition approaches that generally allow little tolerance for failures during testing. Investigation Continues The cause of the Aug. 4 mishap has not yet been determined. Kratos has temporarily suspended flight testing of the affected system while the investigation remains underway. The company has not released additional information regarding the aircraft's configuration or whether the incident will affect the broader development schedule for the various XQ-58 Valkyrie variants.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 15:34:38
World
HOD HASHARON, Israel — Israeli defense startup Erez Defense Solutions has completed another round of field testing for its developing counter-drone defense system, focusing on the validation of a proprietary capsule and its launch mechanism as the company continues work on the technology. The company, based in Hod HaSharon, about 20 kilometers northeast of Tel Aviv in central Israel, said this week's trials concentrated on programming and integration of the system's two core components: a proprietary capsule and the mechanism used to launch it. Erez Defense Solutions did not disclose the capsule's function after launch or explain whether the system is designed to physically capture drones, disable them electronically, or destroy them. The company also did not release technical specifications or operational details of the system. According to the company, the latest testing campaign was intended to validate the performance of the launch hardware and capsule under real operating conditions rather than laboratory simulations. "Field testing is the heartbeat of our innovation. In the world of Electronic Warfare and Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS), theory is one thing, but reality is another. No simulation, however advanced, can replace the complex dynamics of the real world," the company said in a statement. Three Main Objectives Erez Defense Solutions said the latest field trials were designed around three primary objectives: Testing the physical limits of the launch hardware and proprietary capsule under demanding conditions. Verifying operational feasibility by confirming the integrity of the ballistic and mechanical launch sequence in real-field conditions. Ensuring basic reliability so the core system operates consistently and predictably during operation. The company said the trials provided important programming and integration data that will support the next stages of development. However, it did not state that the system has reached operational readiness or is ready for military deployment. The focus on mechanical validation and basic reliability indicates the project remains in an engineering development phase rather than final qualification for procurement or service entry. Growing Focus on Counter-Drone Technologies Counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) have become an increasingly important area of defense development as small, low-cost drones continue to pose security challenges on battlefields and around military and civilian infrastructure. C-UAS solutions generally fall into two categories. Hard-kill systems neutralize drones using weapons such as missiles, guns or lasers, while soft-kill systems seek to stop drones without destroying them through methods including electronic jamming, navigation spoofing or physical capture. Israeli defense companies have introduced several counter-drone technologies in recent years, including soft-kill solutions designed for environments where limiting debris is important. Israel's defense industry has expanded work on counter-drone capabilities in response to security threats that officials say exist across multiple fronts, including cross-border drone activity and attacks linked to Iran-aligned groups. The evolving threat environment has encouraged continued investment in new C-UAS technologies by both established defense firms and emerging startups. Development Continues Erez Defense Solutions credited its engineering and development teams for the progress achieved during the latest round of testing. "The current success is a testament to the hard and precise work of our engineering and development teams, who never stop researching, learning, and improving," the company said. "We are moving forward full steam ahead to deliver a leading and reliable solution to the market." The company did not disclose information regarding its founding, funding, development timeline, customers, or potential procurement programs. As of Aug. 6, 2026, no additional verified public information about the system's technical design, operational concept, or company history had been released.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 14:36:06
U.S
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — L3Harris Technologies has completed the first two-aircraft flight tests of its Viper Shield electronic warfare system at Edwards Air Force Base, marking the first time the system has flown simultaneously aboard an F-16C and an F-16D. L3Harris announced the milestone on Aug. 5 following a series of two-ship flights conducted as part of the ongoing Viper Shield flight-test campaign. The latest testing moves the program beyond individual aircraft evaluations and expands testing into coordinated multi-aircraft operations. The campaign is intended to reduce integration risks, expand the system's test envelope and support preparations for planned deliveries to international F-16 operators. Viper Shield Tested in Two-Aircraft Operations During the flights, test teams evaluated Viper Shield's ability to detect, identify and counter advanced electromagnetic threats while operating alongside the F-16's existing avionics and mission systems. Engineers also assessed the system's digital architecture and real-time response capabilities across different mission profiles. Adding a second aircraft allowed L3Harris and the U.S. Air Force test community to evaluate the electronic warfare suite in a more representative operational environment. Fighters commonly operate alongside other aircraft, requiring electronic warfare equipment to function without disrupting friendly sensors, communications or coordinated tactics. A key part of the evaluation was therefore determining how Viper Shield performs when multiple equipped aircraft operate together. The system is designed to prevent electronic warfare interference between wingmen when fighters simultaneously operate their radars, sensors and countermeasures. F-16C and F-16D Used for Testing The campaign involved both the single-seat F-16C and two-seat F-16D, allowing engineers to evaluate Viper Shield across different aircraft and mission configurations. The F-16C was used to assess combat loadouts, sensor configurations and specific electronic warfare profiles. The F-16D, which is also used for training and multi-crew missions, provided additional opportunities to evaluate the system under different flight conditions, cockpit workflows and mission configurations. Testing the two variants together provided a broader assessment of Viper Shield's performance than previous single-aircraft sorties. Lauren Barnes, President of Spectrum Superiority, Communications & Spectrum Dominance at L3Harris, said the two-aircraft flights demonstrated continued progress in the flight-test program. “The two-ship flights with Viper Shield are another strong example that the system is performing as intended,” Barnes said. “Viper Shield is showing exceptional threat awareness and rapid reaction capability throughout the flight test campaign at Edwards.” AN/ALQ-254(V)1 Viper Shield Viper Shield, designated AN/ALQ-254(V)1, is an all-digital, software-defined electronic warfare suite developed to improve the survivability and combat effectiveness of advanced F-16 fleets. The system combines digital radar threat warning, threat identification and electronic countermeasure capabilities. Its digital radar warning receiver is designed to integrate with the F-16's APG-83 Active Electronically Scanned Array radar, allowing the electronic warfare suite and aircraft radar to operate as part of an integrated configuration. Viper Shield also incorporates a Digital Radio Frequency Memory-based jammer (DRFM jammer), designed to provide rapid and precise electronic countermeasures against advanced radar-guided threats. L3Harris is developing Viper Shield in partnership with Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Air Force. Providing Threat Information to F-16 Pilots Viper Shield is designed to process electromagnetic activity around the aircraft and provide pilots with usable threat information. The system combines threat detection, identification and countermeasure functions to help aircrews respond to hostile emitters. This can provide pilots additional time to maneuver, employ defensive measures or change their mission plan when required. The two-ship flights also allowed test teams to examine how the system supports pilot situational awareness during coordinated operations rather than evaluating aircraft protection only in isolated sorties. L3Harris has incorporated commercial off-the-shelf technology (COTS) into Viper Shield's digital architecture to reduce overall weight and simplify future software upgrades. Internal and Podded Configurations Viper Shield's compact design allows the electronic warfare system to be installed internally on an aircraft or carried in a self-contained external pod. The two configurations use common hardware, helping simplify maintenance, training, software upgrades and logistics support across different F-16 blocks and national configurations. According to L3Harris, Viper Shield is currently the only electronic warfare system in production with a form factor small enough to fit the range of F-16 blocks. The flexible installation approach is particularly relevant for international F-16 fleets because aircraft configurations can differ between operators. 233 Viper Shield Systems Planned L3Harris is preparing to move toward full-rate production of 233 planned Viper Shield systems. The company said eight nations have selected Viper Shield for their F-16 fleets. L3Harris is supporting the program with an active production line, quality assurance processes and a supply chain being prepared for large-scale manufacturing. The planned production effort will support international operators adopting the system as an electronic warfare and survivability upgrade for their F-16 aircraft. Program Moves Toward Operationally Relevant Testing The first coordinated flights involving Viper Shield-equipped F-16C and F-16D aircraft represent another stage in the system's flight-test campaign at Edwards Air Force Base. Moving from individual aircraft evaluations to two-ship operations allows engineers to assess how the electronic warfare suite performs when multiple fighters operate together while using their sensors, radars and defensive systems. The latest testing is intended to further reduce integration risks and support Viper Shield's progression toward planned deliveries to international F-16 operators.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 14:27:24
World
DARWIN, Australia — Australia will invest nearly A$736 million (approximately US$518 million) to acquire the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile (JATM) from the United States, becoming the first country outside the US to operate the next-generation beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles announced the acquisition on August 6 during Exercise Pitch Black at RAAF Base Darwin, Australia's premier multinational air combat training exercise. The missiles will be acquired through the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program and will initially be integrated with the Royal Australian Air Force's (RAAF) Boeing F/A-18F Super Hornet fleet. Integration will later expand to the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II and Boeing EA-18G Growler aircraft. Marles said the AIM-260 missiles will be fitted to Australia's Super Hornets, Growlers and F-35s, with the weapon expected to operate on those aircraft in the future. However, no specific delivery schedule was announced. Strengthening Australia's Air Combat Capability The AIM-260 is a beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) developed by Lockheed Martin. It is designed to address advanced airborne threats and is intended to supplement or eventually replace the AIM-120 AMRAAM in US service. According to publicly available information, the missile has a range of at least 200 kilometres and can reach speeds of around Mach 5. The missile is also designed to fit existing launch systems and the internal weapons bays of aircraft such as the F-35, allowing fifth-generation fighters to retain their low-observable configuration while carrying the weapon internally. The AIM-260 acquisition will provide the Royal Australian Air Force with a longer-range air-to-air engagement capability against airborne targets. It will also complement the Australian Defence Force's (ADF) existing inventory of air-to-air missiles and surface-based air defence systems. Supporting Australia's Defence Strategy The purchase directly supports the priorities outlined in Australia's 2026 National Defence Strategy and the accompanying Integrated Investment Program, which call for a layered air and missile defence architecture capable of detecting and countering threats. The Australian government said the acquisition will also strengthen operational compatibility between Australian and US military forces through the shared use of the AIM-260. The announcement follows Australia's recent investments in medium-range air defence and long-range strike capabilities as part of a broader effort to modernise the Australian Defence Force. "This announcement is the latest milestone in the delivery of long-range, high-tech capabilities for our Defence Force," Richard Marles said. "The Albanese Government continues to deliver critical capabilities that will allow the ADF to strike at a longer range, deter any adversary and protect our national interests." He added that announcing the purchase during Exercise Pitch Black highlighted Australia's commitment to regional security. "It is fitting to make this announcement at Exercise Pitch Black, which is an important demonstration of Australia's commitment to the peace, stability and security of our region," Marles said. The government added that the investment will help ensure the Australian Defence Force remains capable, equipped and prepared to respond to Australia's strategic circumstances. Part of a Broader Guided Weapons Investment Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy said the AIM-260 would place Australia at the forefront of the missile's international introduction. "JATM missiles are some of the most sophisticated air-to-air weapons in the world, and Australia will be the first country to operate them outside the US," Conroy said. He said the investment would strengthen the Australian Defence Force's ability to detect and counter threats while improving national security. "This investment will deliver the most advanced capability for our ADF to detect and counter threats, and keep Australians safe," Conroy said. "This is made possible thanks to the Albanese Government's record investment in Defence, including up to A$36 billion over the next decade for Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance." The AIM-260 procurement forms part of Australia's wider Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance enterprise, which aims to strengthen the country's long-term missile capability. Earlier US Notification and Initial Purchase Earlier in 2026, the US Congress was notified of a potential defence package valued at approximately US$3.16 billion. That notification covered up to 450 AIM-260 missiles, along with integration test vehicles, guided test vehicles, training, logistics support and other associated equipment. The Australian government's confirmed commitment of nearly A$736 million represents an initial purchase under that broader framework. No official explanation has been provided regarding the difference between the earlier US notification and Australia's announced investment. Separately, Australia is continuing efforts to expand its domestic guided weapons production capability through partnerships with international defence companies, including work involving locally developed rocket motors. Once integrated across the Royal Australian Air Force's F/A-18F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler and F-35A Lightning II fleets, the AIM-260 is expected to strengthen Australia's long-range air combat capability and improve interoperability with US forces during future operations and joint exercises.
Read More → Posted on 2026-08-06 13:56:32Search
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