U.S 

DÜSSELDORF, Germany — German defence company Rheinmetall has officially unveiled the GMF140, a next-generation guided-missile frigate designed for NATO and allied navies. Measuring 140 metres in length and displacing approximately 6,000 tonnes, the new surface combatant is intended to meet evolving naval requirements across air defence, missile defence, anti-submarine warfare, and long-range strike missions. The company said the GMF140 will first be offered as part of a procurement campaign in North America, before being marketed to countries modernising their naval fleets across Europe, the North Atlantic, and the Indo-Pacific.   Designed for Multi-Mission Naval Operations Rheinmetall said the GMF140 has been designed to operate in high-threat blue-water environments while retaining the flexibility to support expeditionary, littoral, and coalition operations. The frigate is intended to carry out a wide range of missions, including: Anti-Air Warfare (AAW) against conventional airborne threats. Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD), including the detection, tracking, and interception of ballistic and hypersonic weapons. Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) using a low-signature hull, integrated acoustic management, and advanced sonar systems. Long-range strike missions against distant targets. According to Rheinmetall, the vessel has been designed as a flexible platform capable of supporting modern naval operations while maintaining compatibility with allied forces.   Combat System and Sensor Suite The GMF140 is built around an open-architecture combat system designed to support future upgrades and interoperability with allied navies. Its primary combat system is based on the US-developed Aegis Combat System, with the option to integrate Lockheed Martin's CMS330 Combat Management System where required. Rheinmetall said the open architecture enables the integration of a wide range of European sensors and weapon systems. The frigate can also be equipped with several US-sourced primary radar options capable of supporting full ballistic missile defence tracking. These radar systems are designed to detect, track, and engage conventional aircraft as well as ballistic and hypersonic threats. According to the company, the combination of the Aegis Combat System, advanced radar, and combat management architecture provides surveillance and fire-control performance typically associated with much larger surface combatants.   Proposed Weapons and Mission Systems Rheinmetall's proposed configuration includes a broad range of weapons and mission systems to support the frigate's multi-role capabilities. The planned armament includes: 64 strike-length Vertical Launch System (VLS) cells for air-defence, ballistic missile-defence, and land-attack missiles. One 5-inch main gun. Dedicated anti-ship missiles. Torpedo launchers for anti-submarine warfare. Laser systems. Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS) for point defence. The ship is also designed to operate US or European maritime helicopters and unmanned systems, extending its surveillance, anti-submarine, and engagement capabilities beyond the ship itself. Rheinmetall said the final configuration—including secondary armament, electro-optical sensors, electronic warfare equipment, decoy systems, and other defensive systems—can be customised to meet individual customer requirements.   Anti-Submarine Warfare Features For anti-submarine operations, the GMF140 combines a low-signature hull with integrated acoustic management, along with both hull-mounted and towed sonar systems. These features are intended to improve underwater detection while reducing the vessel's acoustic signature during operations.   Digital Design and Crew Requirements According to Rheinmetall, the GMF140 is a digitally integrated and minimally crewed platform developed with an emphasis on operational efficiency, survivability, NATO interoperability, and future upgrades. Additional details released during the unveiling state that the frigate has: A top speed of 30 knots A core crew of about 90 personnel Accommodation for approximately 35 additional personnel The company also noted that the 64 VLS cells provide greater missile capacity than several existing frigate classes of similar size.   Initial Focus on North America Rheinmetall said its first marketing effort for the GMF140 will focus on North America, with the design later being offered to allied navies seeking new multi-mission surface combatants. The company is positioning the GMF140 as a future-ready frigate that combines air defence, ballistic missile defence, anti-submarine warfare, and long-range strike capabilities within an open and interoperable architecture designed for long-term fleet modernisation.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-03 12:00:21

 U.S 

FRANKLIN, La. — Saronic Technologies has confirmed that its first Marauder Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV) has progressed from an initial design concept to on-water trials in less than 12 months, marking a significant milestone in the company's effort to accelerate autonomous ship development for both defense and commercial applications. The Austin, Texas-based defense technology company said the first Marauder hull is currently undergoing intensive sea trials for more than 12 hours a day, seven days a week, to validate its autonomous systems, reliability, and performance under real-world maritime conditions. According to the company, the testing program is designed to evaluate the vessel's autonomous capabilities at range and in challenging operating environments before potential operational deployment. "The team took Marauder from initial design to on-water trials in under 12 months. Now we're running it on the water 12+ hours a day, seven days a week, proving out the autonomy at range and in conditions that don't cooperate," Saronic said in a company update. "We're pushing the system hard, it's the same bar we've held on every vessel we've fielded, and we're holding it here. We're putting in the work that matters and we're glad to be doing it."   Designed for Long-Range Autonomous Operations The 54.9-meter (180-foot) Marauder is designed to conduct extended missions without a crew onboard. The vessel can operate either fully autonomously or under remote human supervision. According to Saronic, the platform has a maximum speed exceeding 25 knots, a range of up to 5,400 nautical miles, and a payload capacity of up to 150 metric tons. Official specifications state the vessel can travel 5,400 nautical miles at a base load of 25 metric tons or 4,100 nautical miles when carrying its maximum 150-metric-ton payload. It has a cruise speed of 12 knots. The ship features a modular aft deck capable of carrying the equivalent of four 40-foot ISO shipping containers or eight 20-foot containers, allowing operators to reconfigure the vessel for different mission requirements without major structural changes. Saronic says the platform is intended to support a wide range of missions, including logistics, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR), communications relay, decoy operations, maritime domain awareness, research, and seabed monitoring. Recent sea trial footage released by the company showed the vessel equipped with navigation radars and optical sensors while carrying three 20-foot containers during testing.   First Hull Built at Louisiana Shipyard The first Marauder hull, designated MR-001, was launched from Saronic's shipyard in Franklin, Louisiana, in late May 2026 before entering sea trials shortly afterward. The company said the rapid development timeline was made possible by integrating vessel design, manufacturing, and autonomy software development within a single production system. Saronic also uses modern aluminum shipbuilding techniques, modular construction methods, and commercial components to support faster production. Marauder is powered by diesel engines with waterjet propulsion and incorporates a software-based fleet intelligence platform that provides operators with real-time visibility into vessel systems, telemetry, and operational status. The system also allows remote intervention when necessary, while every major hardware component is designed with a software interface for monitoring and control.   Additional Vessels Already Under Construction Saronic is already building three additional Marauder hulls at its Franklin facility. According to the company, construction of the second hull is progressing approximately 25 percent faster than the first at the same stage. The second vessel was flipped in March 2026 and is currently being outfitted with mechanical, electrical, and autonomy systems. The third and fourth hulls remain in earlier stages of construction. To increase production capacity, Saronic is expanding its Franklin shipyard through a $300 million investment. The project will add more than 300,000 square feet of production space, three new slips, expanded warehouse facilities, and a dedicated assembly line for large vessels. The expansion is expected to be completed by the end of 2026 and is intended to support production of up to 20 Marauder vessels annually. The company has also announced plans for a larger future manufacturing facility in Texas.   U.S. Navy MUSV Program Saronic has been selected by the U.S. Department of the Navy as one of seven companies advancing to the at-sea testing phase of the Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV) Marketplace program. The other selected companies are Sea Machines, Leidos, Galliano Marine Services, PacMar Technologies, Birdon, and Huntington Ingalls Industries. The MUSV Marketplace program is intended to evaluate mature commercial unmanned surface vessel technologies for potential naval use while accelerating the introduction of autonomous systems into the fleet through a faster acquisition process. Companies that successfully complete at-sea testing are eligible for $15 million and possible follow-on production contracts. Testing under the program is scheduled to continue through October 2026. Saronic's selection builds on its existing work with the U.S. Navy, including a production contract for its 24-foot Corsair autonomous surface vessel. Marauder is part of Saronic's family of autonomous surface vessels that share a common autonomy software architecture, ranging from the 24-foot Corsair and 52-foot Mirage to the 180-foot Marauder.   Company Highlights Development Timeline Saronic Co-Founder and CEO Dino Mavrookas said the development pace represents an uncommon achievement in modern U.S. shipbuilding. "I'm incredibly proud of our team for achieving this milestone. Designing, building, and launching an entire new class of ships in under a year is a feat the American shipbuilding industry hasn't seen in generations," Mavrookas said. "It's what happens when design, production, and manufacturing are fully integrated under one roof. With multiple hulls already underway and our shipyard continuing to grow, this is what revitalizing American shipbuilding actually looks like — autonomous ships delivered at speed and scale, with the production capacity to back it up." As of early August 2026, the first Marauder continues intensive on-water testing while additional vessels progress through construction at Saronic's Louisiana shipyard. The U.S. Navy's MUSV Marketplace evaluations are also continuing as scheduled through October 2026.    

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-02 12:55:17

 U.S 

CAMP DAVID, Maryland — U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States has not agreed to grant Ukraine a license to produce Patriot missile defense systems, signaling that discussions with Kyiv are still ongoing and that no final decision has been made. Speaking to reporters during a Cabinet meeting at the Camp David presidential retreat on Friday, Trump said the advanced air defense technology is "a hard thing to give away" and stressed the need for caution before allowing another country to manufacture the system. "These weapons are incredible. We have to be very careful about letting somebody build them," Trump said. He added that Washington and Kyiv are still "talking about it," but emphasized that no agreement has been finalized. The comments differ from Trump's remarks less than three weeks earlier at the NATO Summit in Ankara, Turkey, where he told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, "We're going to give a license to you to make Patriots." At the time, Trump also said the administration had not yet informed the companies involved in manufacturing the Patriot system, referring to Lockheed Martin and RTX, which produce components for the missile defense system. Signs that the administration's position was changing emerged on Thursday when Trump told the Financial Times that he was "not sure" whether he would approve a production license for Ukraine. Trump's latest remarks came after a White House meeting with Zelenskyy on July 28. While Zelenskyy described the meeting as productive and said it included discussions on Patriot production licenses, Trump clarified that although several topics—including Patriot systems and Tomahawk missiles—were discussed, no agreement was reached. During the Camp David meeting, Trump distinguished between the two weapons, describing the Patriot as a defensive system and the Tomahawk as an offensive weapon.   Patriot Production Remains a Priority for Ukraine Ukraine has repeatedly identified the Patriot missile defense system as one of its highest defense priorities because of its role in intercepting Russian ballistic missiles during continued attacks on Ukrainian cities and infrastructure. Following a recent phone call with U.S. Vice President JD Vance, Zelenskyy said on the social media platform X that securing the defense technology "remains a top priority." "We agreed that our teams will stay in touch and work through everything discussed today," Zelenskyy wrote. "I thank the United States for its support of Ukraine and our people." Ukraine's embassy in Washington did not immediately respond to requests for comment following Trump's latest statements. Despite the uncertainty surrounding the proposed production license, Ukraine has continued discussions with U.S. defense industry representatives. Zelenskyy recently met with representatives from Lockheed Martin to discuss joint capabilities and possible co-production arrangements. "Our teams are already working on specific solutions to move to co-production as quickly as possible and increase our capabilities to protect lives," Zelenskyy said after the meeting. No official licensing or co-production agreement has been announced.   U.S. Stockpile Concerns The debate over Patriot production is taking place as the United States continues to manage its inventory of advanced air defense systems. American Patriot systems have been used extensively in the Middle East, including against Iranian ballistic missile attacks. During the Cabinet meeting, Trump referred to recent interceptions over Jordan, describing how U.S. forces successfully intercepted incoming Iranian missiles. He also confirmed that his envoys, Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, will visit Ukraine as part of broader efforts related to the ongoing war. Defense analysts have noted that even if Washington approves a production license, establishing Patriot manufacturing capability in Ukraine would likely take years. The Patriot system is technologically complex, costly to produce, and depends on a specialized global industrial supply chain. Talks between the United States and Ukraine on Patriot production and potential co-production arrangements remain ongoing, with no final agreement announced by either government.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-02 10:54:01

 U.S 

FORT IRWIN, Calif. — The U.S. Army has successfully tested silent hybrid power systems capable of operating command posts for several hours using battery power alone during Project Convergence Capstone 6 (PC-C6), reducing the need for continuously running diesel generators while supporting mission-critical command and control operations. The demonstration took place during Project Convergence Capstone 6, held at Fort Irwin, California, from July 20 to July 29, 2026. The large-scale Army experimentation event brought together approximately 10,000 participants from the U.S. joint force and multinational allies to evaluate more than 90 future warfare technologies under realistic operational conditions. According to GM Defense, two command posts from the 4th Infantry Division operated for periods ranging from three to eight hours using only battery power through the company's EPIQ hybrid power system. During these periods, the diesel generator remained off and activated only when needed to recharge the system's batteries. The command nodes supported mission-critical electrical loads ranging from 9 to 30 kilowatts, providing power for division and brigade command and control functions, as well as intelligence, fires, network, and sustainment systems. Traditionally, Army command posts rely on diesel generators operating continuously to power computers, communications equipment, radios, and other essential systems. Constant generator use creates both noise and heat that can be detected by enemy forces using acoustic sensors or thermal imaging systems. By allowing command posts to operate for hours without the generator running, the hybrid power system reduces both the acoustic signature and the thermal signature of deployed headquarters. The approach also lowers fuel consumption and reduces generator operating hours, helping extend generator service life.   Supporting the Army's Next Generation Command and Control Project Convergence Capstone 6 also served as the Army's largest field evaluation to date for its Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) initiative. The Army formally established NGC2 as a program of record in April 2025. The program is intended to modernize how Army maneuver forces conduct command and control by integrating transport, data, applications, and communications into a unified operational framework. During the exercise, Maj. Gen. Patrick Ellis, commanding general of the 4th Infantry Division, described NGC2 as a full-stack approach to command and control rather than a single technology. He said the 10-day exercise allowed the division to test the complete system under Fort Irwin's terrain and climate while collecting data that will help inform future Army modernization efforts. The 4th Infantry Division, based at Fort Carson, Colorado, has served as the Army's lead unit for NGC2 experimentation over the past year. In July 2025, the Army awarded Team Anduril a $99.6 million Other Transaction Authority agreement to deliver a prototype NGC2 architecture for the division. The effort has continued to advance, with the Army announcing in late June 2026 that Anduril had been selected to lead the common data layer baseline for the program as it moves toward continuous delivery. Brig. Gen. Shane Taylor of the Army's Program Executive Office for Command, Control, Communications and Networks said timely and integrated data will be critical for supporting commanders' decision-making in future operations, adding that NGC2 is designed as a long-term effort involving continuous contracting and investment rather than a single contract.   Reliable Power Becomes a Key Requirement As the Army introduces more advanced battlefield technologies, dependable power has become an increasingly important requirement for field operations. Systems such as artificial intelligence tools, autonomous platforms, and expeditionary sensors require reliable electrical power to remain operational during deployments, making power sustainment a key component of the Army's modernization efforts. GM Defense was not the only company demonstrating hybrid power technology during Project Convergence Capstone 6. INTRACOM DEFENSE (IDE) also deployed its Tactical Hybrid Generator and GENAIRCON vehicle power system with 4th Infantry Division platforms during the exercise. The company said its systems provided assured power sustainment and silent operation for NGC2 command nodes. Following the demonstration, GM Defense said the exercise showed that its EPIQ hybrid power system can keep command and control systems operating while reducing acoustic and thermal signatures, lowering fuel consumption, and extending generator life. The company stated that these capabilities are particularly relevant for operations in contested environments, where reducing the detectable noise and heat produced by traditional generators can help command posts remain operational while limiting their exposure to enemy detection.    

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-02 10:40:42

 U.S 

HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The U.S. Department of War's Office of Strategic Capital (OSC) has announced a conditional loan commitment of up to $820 million to Performance Drone Works (PDW) to expand domestic manufacturing of critical drone components, a move aimed at strengthening the U.S. defense industrial base and reducing reliance on foreign-controlled supply chains. The funding, announced on July 31, 2026, will support the development of high-volume manufacturing capacity for essential drone components used in Group 1 and Group 2 uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS). The financing will be combined with private capital to help establish a larger domestic production base that can supply multiple U.S. drone manufacturers.   Expanding Domestic Drone Component Production According to the Office of Strategic Capital, the project will create a new high-volume source of American-made drone components for the broader U.S. unmanned aircraft ecosystem. The expanded manufacturing capacity is intended to support both Performance Drone Works and other domestic manufacturers producing Group 1 and Group 2 UAS. The components planned for production include propulsion systems, power and control systems, vision systems, and other enabling technologies. The initiative is designed to address supply-chain bottlenecks and improve the availability of critical components across the domestic drone industry. The Department of War said the investment supports broader efforts to build a more secure and resilient supply chain for robotics and autonomous systems used in national security applications.   Manufacturing Expansion in Huntsville Performance Drone Works will leverage its existing manufacturing infrastructure at Drone Factory 01 in Huntsville, Alabama, a 90,000-square-foot facility that integrates engineering, flight testing, systems integration, production, and fulfillment under one roof. The company develops multi-mission aerial robotic systems for defense, government, public safety, and allied customers. Its Huntsville facility also supports production of systems including the C100 multi-mission quadcopter and AM platforms for U.S. and allied defense missions.   Supporting Executive Order 14307 The loan commitment supports President Donald Trump's Executive Order 14307, "Unleashing American Drone Dominance," which was signed on June 6, 2025. The executive order directs federal agencies to prioritize U.S.-manufactured unmanned aircraft systems, expand domestic production, and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. David A. Lorch, Director of the Office of Strategic Capital and Senior Advisor to Deputy Secretary of War Steve Feinberg, said PDW is among several domestic manufacturers selected to receive OSC loan commitments under the initiative. "PDW will be one of several domestic component producers receiving OSC loan commitments in support of President Trump's Executive Order 14307, 'Unleashing American Drone Dominance.' Expanding domestic component production will benefit manufacturers throughout the ecosystem and improve supply-chain resilience," Lorch said.   Focus on Supply-Chain Resilience The Office of Strategic Capital said the financing is intended to strengthen the domestic supply chain by increasing production of components that are currently vulnerable to foreign-controlled supply sources. James R. Shanahan, Senior Managing Director at OSC, said the agency is focused on eliminating manufacturing bottlenecks affecting drones and autonomous systems. "We are squarely focused on identifying and addressing bottlenecks in critical supply chains, including drones and autonomous systems. OSC's transaction with PDW, along with private capital crowded in alongside it, will support the construction of significant new manufacturing capacity to address vulnerabilities across the drone supply chain," Shanahan said.   Supporting the Defense Industrial Base Emil Michael, Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering, said strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity is essential for meeting the Department of War's drone production objectives. "Achieving Secretary Hegseth's mandate for drone dominance requires a secure and resilient industrial base here at home. The Office of Strategic Capital is strengthening the domestic supply chain for critical drone components to ensure American manufacturers can deliver the capabilities that our warfighters need," Michael said.   PDW Highlights Importance of Domestic Manufacturing PDW Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Performance Drone Works, said the financing would help establish domestic production of drone and robotics components that currently rely on foreign-controlled supply chains. James Slider, CEO of PDW, said expanding U.S. manufacturing capacity is important for ensuring future operational readiness. "America's ability to respond tomorrow depends on the industrial capacity we build today. This conditional commitment from the Department of War's Office of Strategic Capital would support the critical need of strengthening domestic manufacturing and restoring America's ability to build the capabilities our nation depends on," Slider said. He added that the company is committed to delivering reliable capabilities to operators supporting U.S. and allied missions. Matt Higgins, Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of PDW, said the financing would help establish a stronger domestic drone component ecosystem. "For more than a decade, the United States has been dependent on foreign technology and has lacked a domestic drone component ecosystem. This financing would allow us to build the components necessary for a thriving, sovereign dual-use drone industry and help to secure our nation's industrial future," Higgins said.   Conditional Commitment Pending Final Approval The Office of Strategic Capital noted that the announcement represents a conditional loan commitment, not a finalized loan agreement. Before financial close, Performance Drone Works must complete customary financial, legal, technical, and other due diligence requirements. Once those conditions are satisfied, the financing can proceed. The announcement reflects the Office of Strategic Capital's broader mission of providing financing that strengthens the U.S. industrial base and supports secure domestic supply chains for technologies considered important to national security.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-01 15:40:32

 U.S 

SEATTLE — Boeing has received an $11,381,402 cost-plus-fixed-fee order from the U.S. Department of Defense to develop, test, and deliver updated flight control software for the P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft. The award, announced in a U.S. Department of Defense contracts notice dated July 31, 2026, supports continued modernization of the aircraft's flight-critical systems. The contract covers the development of updated aircraft-loadable black label software for the Enhanced Digital Flight Control System (EDFCS), which manages the P-8A's autopilot functions. Black label software refers to flight-critical software that has completed the military's highest level of safety certification. The software package will be installed as an operational retrofit on aircraft already in service.   Software Update to Correct Six Autopilot Issues According to the contract notice, the updated software will resolve deficiencies identified during software design description, developmental testing, and operational testing of the P-8A autopilot. The corrections are intended to improve the aircraft's automated flight control performance. The update addresses six specific issues: Altitude acquire problems, affecting the aircraft's ability to climb or descend to a selected altitude and maintain it. Autopilot placard speed exceedance, caused by delayed throttle retard, which can allow the aircraft to exceed its maximum certified operating speed. Pitch oscillations during airspeed climbs and descents. Unexpected autopilot mode switching from altitude acquire mode to vertical speed mode after a speed command change. Slow auto-throttle response, reducing how quickly engine power adjusts to pilot commands. Bank limit margin tuning, refining the aircraft's bank angle during automated turns. The Department of Defense stated that these deficiencies were identified through the normal developmental and operational testing process. The contract announcement does not mention any accidents or immediate safety concerns associated with the identified issues.   P-8A Poseidon Remains a Key Maritime Patrol Aircraft The P-8A Poseidon is a militarized version of the Boeing 737-800ERX and serves as the U.S. Navy's primary maritime patrol and anti-submarine warfare aircraft. It was developed to replace the aging P-3 Orion fleet. The aircraft is equipped with an open-systems mission computing architecture that integrates radar, acoustic sensors, electronic support measures, and infrared sensors into a single tactical system. Operated by a nine-person crew, the P-8A is designed to detect, track, and engage submarines and surface vessels using torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and other weapons carried in its internal weapons bay and on external wing pylons.   International Fleet Supports Continued Modernization The P-8A is operated by the U.S. Navy, Royal Australian Air Force, Royal Air Force (United Kingdom), and the Royal Norwegian Air Force. Other operators and customers include India (P-8I variant), New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Germany, and Canada. As the international fleet continues to expand, software updates such as this one help maintain common flight control standards and support ongoing modernization across partner nations.   Contract Details All development, testing, and integration work will be performed at Boeing's facilities in Tukwila, Washington, with completion expected by February 2028. The $11,381,402 order is funded by the Royal Australian Air Force, with funding obligated at the time of award. According to the contract notice, none of the funds will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The order was not competed and was issued by Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) in Patuxent River, Maryland, under a previously awarded basic ordering agreement. The contract provides Boeing with approximately two years to complete development, testing, and formal delivery of the updated flight control software package for the P-8A Poseidon fleet.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-01 15:11:31

 U.S 

SAN DIEGO — A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter aircraft crashed while approaching the runway at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Miramar on Friday morning, July 31, after the pilot ejected safely before impact. The pilot sustained non-life-threatening injuries and is recovering in stable condition, according to the U.S. Marine Corps. The crash occurred at approximately 10:00 a.m. local time near the runway, just south of Miramar Road near Mitscher Way. According to base air traffic control audio, the aircraft was on a short final approach to the runway when the incident occurred. An eyewitness near the base reported seeing two military aircraft descending toward the runway. The first aircraft landed normally, while the second appeared to slow significantly, almost hovering, before the pilot ejected at an altitude of about 100 feet. The aircraft then crashed into a dirt field, breaking into two large sections across a scorched area roughly the size of a football field. The F-35B was assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 11 (MAG-11), which operates under the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing headquartered at MCAS Miramar. Officials confirmed the pilot was the aircraft's sole occupant, and no other injuries were reported. Emergency response teams from MCAS Miramar and the San Diego Fire-Rescue Department arrived at the scene shortly after the crash. The impact ignited a vegetation fire that spread across several acres. Firefighters used firefighting foam and white flame retardant to suppress the flames and successfully extinguished the brush fire by early afternoon. In a statement, the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing confirmed that the pilot's parachute deployed successfully. The pilot was recovered at the crash site and transported to a local medical facility for evaluation and treatment. Military officials have not released the pilot's identity. The Marine Corps has classified the accident as a Class A mishap, the military's highest aviation accident category. The classification is used when an aircraft is destroyed, a fatality occurs, or property damage exceeds $2 million. In this incident, officials confirmed the aircraft was destroyed. Military personnel secured the crash site, and an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the accident. Officials have not released details about the flight or the circumstances that led to the crash. "Our primary focus remains on supporting emergency teams at the scene, ensuring thorough site security, and conducting an exhaustive review into the circumstances surrounding this aircraft mishap," a base public affairs officer said. The F-35B Lightning II is the short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the F-35 fighter aircraft. The Marine Corps operates the aircraft from amphibious assault ships, expeditionary sites, and conventional airfields. Marine Aircraft Group 11, part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing based at MCAS Miramar in Southern California, provides combat-ready aviation forces and supports the training of Marine and Navy pilots. A single F-35B aircraft costs more than $100 million to produce. The investigation into the crash remains ongoing, and the Marine Corps said additional information will be released as it becomes available.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-01 14:18:26

 U.S 

DAYTON, Ohio — The U.S. Air Force's Boeing F-47 next-generation fighter remains on schedule for its first flight in 2028, according to a senior Air Force official, as the aircraft advances into a key stage of development under the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program. Speaking at the Life Cycle Industry Days conference in Dayton, Ohio, on Wednesday, Gen. Dale White, director of Critical Major Weapon Systems and the Pentagon's direct reporting portfolio manager for major defense programs, said the F-47 has entered the Engineering and Manufacturing Development (EMD) phase with what he described as "unprecedented maturity." "The F-47 will fly in this administration," White said, referring to the timeline outlined in the fiscal year 2027 budget request.   F-47 Enters Engineering and Manufacturing Development The EMD phase focuses on maturing, integrating and testing the aircraft's systems before production. White said the program is benefiting from "extreme teaming" with industry partners. The phase will produce a small number of test aircraft for evaluation, although he did not disclose how many. It also includes priced options for low-rate initial production (LRIP), establishing a path toward future manufacturing. The Boeing F-47 is the crewed fighter component of the Air Force's broader NGAD "family of systems," which also includes Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) designed to operate alongside the fighter during future missions. Air Force officials have said the F-47 features a modular design that allows new technologies to be integrated over time while supporting long-range strike operations in contested environments. Earlier Air Force information states the aircraft is intended to provide air superiority, with a combat radius greater than 1,000 nautical miles and speeds above Mach 2.   Air Force Plans to Buy 185 Aircraft The Air Force plans to procure at least 185 F-47 fighters, roughly matching the size of the F-22 Raptor fleet that the new aircraft is intended to replace. President Donald Trump announced Boeing's selection for the program in March 2025, officially moving forward with the NGAD fighter effort. At the time, Trump said: "In terms of all of the attributes of a fighter jet, there's never been anything even close to it, from speed to maneuverability, to what it can have, to payload. America's enemies will never see it coming."   More Than $5 Billion Requested for Development The F-47 program received approximately $3.45 billion in fiscal year 2026 funding. The fiscal year 2027 budget request includes more than $5 billion for continued development, representing a 65% increase over the previous year's funding. Budget projections indicate that research and development spending is expected to peak at around $5.25 billion in 2028 before gradually declining in subsequent years. Including previous allocations, total funding for the program is approaching $8.5 billion. Boeing began manufacturing the first F-47 airframe in late 2025. Air Force leaders have previously stated that experimental work on technologies supporting the aircraft had already been underway for several years before the formal development contract was awarded. White's remarks reaffirmed that the 2028 first-flight schedule remains unchanged as the Air Force continues engineering, manufacturing and flight-test preparations for its next-generation air superiority fighter. In addition to the F-47, White oversees a defense portfolio valued at nearly $250 billion, including the B-21 Raider bomber and the Sentinel and Minuteman III strategic missile programs.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-01 13:30:39

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Navy has outlined new details of its Naval Modular Missile (NMM) program, a next-generation family of modular surface-to-air interceptors designed to improve fleet air defense, increase missile capacity aboard warships, and introduce a submarine-launched air-defense capability for future attack submarines. The program is built around a common Terminal Stage Interceptor (TSI) that can be combined with different rocket boosters and launch canisters to create multiple missile variants for different missions and platforms. The Navy says the modular approach is intended to simplify production, improve logistics, and provide greater flexibility across the fleet. Information on the program comes from a draft Request for Solutions contracting notice issued by Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), which was first reported by Aviation Week. NAVSEA also held an industry day earlier this year to gather feedback from potential suppliers. While the effort has existed since at least 2021, only limited information had previously been made public. The U.S. Navy has requested $311 million in its Fiscal Year 2027 budget as a new-start effort to begin NMM development. Budget documents state that the long-term objective is to eventually replace the Navy's existing inventory of Standard missiles with the new modular missile family while providing advanced defensive and offensive capabilities for the U.S. Navy, the Joint Force, allies, and partners.   Modular Terminal Stage Interceptor Forms the Core of the Program At the center of the NMM program is the 10-inch diameter Terminal Stage Interceptor (TSI), which serves as a common front-end section for all missile variants. According to NAVSEA contracting documents, the interceptor consists of five modules: Seeker Assembly Module (SAM) Lethality Module (LM) Command Module (CM) Terminal-Stage Rocket Motor (TSRM) Control Actuation Module (CAM) The Navy describes the TSI as a highly agile, multi-mission interceptor built using current technologies. While detailed performance requirements have not been publicly released, the contracting notice indicates the missile is intended to counter advanced aerial threats, including maneuvering supersonic and hypersonic weapons. The Navy has not finalized seeker requirements. However, potential seeker options mentioned in the documents include active radar, imaging infrared, and passive radiofrequency systems. A multi-mode seeker could improve performance against increasingly sophisticated electronic countermeasures. The focus on advanced missile defense reflects operational experience from recent conflicts in the Middle East and observations from the war in Ukraine, as well as the continued development of high-speed anti-ship missiles by countries including China and Russia.   Four Missile Variants Planned Using the common TSI, the Navy plans to develop four primary All-Up-Round (AUR) variants for different operational requirements. Long-Range (LR) The Long-Range (LR) variant is intended for launch from the Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) installed on U.S. Navy surface combatants. The missile uses a 21-inch rocket motor, leveraging existing Navy investments in propulsion technology already associated with the Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IIA and the developing SM-6 Block IB. According to Navy documents, the LR missile is designed to provide multi-mission hypersonic capability, allowing faster engagement of long-range aerial threats and supporting future long-range kill chains. One LR missile will occupy a single Mk 41 VLS cell.   Dual-Pack Extended Range (DP-ER) and Quad-Pack Medium Range (QP-MR) To increase the number of interceptors carried aboard surface ships, the Navy also plans two slimmer missile variants: Dual-Pack Extended Range (DP-ER) Quad-Pack Medium Range (QP-MR) These missiles are designed to fit two or four missiles, respectively, into a single Mk 41 VLS cell. Currently, the Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) is the primary Navy surface-to-air interceptor that can be multi-packed into Mk 41 launch cells. Increasing magazine depth would allow warships to conduct more defensive engagements before needing to return to port for reloading. The Navy is also developing methods for reloading vertical launch systems at sea to further improve operational flexibility.   Submarine-Launched ER-S Variant One of the most significant elements of the NMM program is the Extended-Range Submarine (ER-S) variant, which is planned for deployment aboard future Block V Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarines equipped with the Virginia Payload Module (VPM). The VPM adds four large vertical launch tubes to Block V submarines. Under current plans, the ER-S missiles would be loaded using a seven-cell Multiple All-Up-Round Canister (MAC) adapter previously used on Ohio-class guided-missile submarines. The U.S. Navy does not currently operate a dedicated submarine-launched surface-to-air missile capability. According to program documents, the ER-S missile is expected to provide submarines with localized defense against airborne threats such as anti-submarine warfare aircraft while also expanding their contribution to wider fleet air-defense operations.   【P1】 The submarine currently under construction appears to be USS Arizona (SSN-803), the second Block V Virginia-class attack submarine. 【P2】 is likely the Virginia Payload Module (VPM), a key feature of the Block V variant.USS Arizona will be the first Virginia-class… https://t.co/lNVxk5TZfe pic.twitter.com/oUJLZEMkGd — 笑脸男人 (@lfx160219) July 30, 2026   Submarine multiple all-up-round canister (MAC) evolution:1⃣Ohio-class SSGN: 7-round MAC backfit into each Trident missile tube2⃣Block III Virginia: two VPTs on the bow with 6-round MAC3⃣Block V Virginia (starting w/803): keep Block II VPT, add four 7-round MAC amidships pic.twitter.com/5oAVbKbZEK — 🇺🇸𝗢𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝘂𝗯𝗺𝗮𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗲𝗿⚓️ (@USN_Submariner) August 6, 2024 Potential Role in Networked Air Defense Navy planning documents describe how submarines equipped with ER-S missiles could operate as part of a wider networked air-defense architecture. Using targeting information provided by offboard sensors—including Aegis-equipped surface ships, space-based tracking systems, or aircraft—a submarine could contribute to engagements against airborne threats while remaining integrated into broader fleet operations. The Navy also notes that the LR and ER-S variants are planned to achieve hypersonic speeds, allowing faster engagement of distant threats and potentially improving response against time-sensitive targets. Military planners also recognize operational considerations associated with the submarine-launched concept. Launching a large interceptor generates infrared, radar, and acoustic signatures that could reveal a submarine's position, requiring commanders to balance defensive benefits with stealth requirements.   Production Strategy Focuses on Modular Manufacturing A major objective of the NMM program is to improve production capacity and strengthen the defense industrial base. Rather than relying on a single supplier, the Navy's modular open-architecture approach is intended to allow multiple contractors to manufacture TSI components and rocket motors, increasing competition and reducing supply chain constraints. According to contracting documents, the Navy is targeting production of 1,000 TSI interceptors per year within five years of contract award. Budget documents also indicate the Navy plans to use multiple acquisition approaches, including Other Transaction Authorities (OTA), marketplace platforms, and alternatives to traditional Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) procurement methods to expand the supplier base.   Program Supports Future Fleet Air Defense The Fiscal Year 2027 budget request states that the Naval Modular Missile (NMM) program is intended to address increasingly capable anti-access and area-denial (A2/AD) threats while providing greater magazine capacity and more adaptable missile options across the fleet. If developed as planned, the NMM family would introduce a standardized interceptor architecture for surface ships while adding a new submarine-launched air-defense capability for future Virginia-class submarines equipped with the Virginia Payload Module (VPM), expanding the Navy's options for defending against advanced aerial threats.   Source : TWZ

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-01 12:08:45

 U.S 

ARLINGTON, Va. — RTX subsidiary Pratt & Whitney has received a nearly $1.3 billion undefinitized contract to supply spare parts for the F135 engine, the propulsion system that powers all three variants of the F-35 Lightning II fighter aircraft. The Indefinite Delivery, Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract is intended to fund the initial spare parts requirements for fiscal year 2026. Managed primarily by the U.S. Department of Defense's Naval Air Systems Command, the contract action modification is valued at $1,295,745,898. Under the agreement, Pratt & Whitney will provide deployable spare packages, depot lay-ins, and associated support equipment to support F-35 operations.   Supporting Global F-35 Operations The contract will provide both common and depot spare parts for the F-35 global spares pool, along with country-specific spare parts for international operators. According to the company, the contract supports the operational requirements of the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Marine Corps, and U.S. Navy, as well as non-U.S. Department of Defense participants and international F-35 customers. Pratt & Whitney said it has delivered more than 1,500 production F135 engines to operators across 20 allied nations. The company's global F-35 sustainment network currently provides maintenance, logistics, and technical support services for aircraft operating from 42 military bases and 13 ships worldwide. "Ensuring the F135 remains mission-ready is critical to the success of the F-35 enterprise," said Chris Johnson, Vice President of Pratt & Whitney's F135 Program. "This contract will help strengthen our global sustainment network to ensure operators around the world can continue to rely on the F135's unmatched performance," he added.   Work to Continue Through 2030 Work under the contract will be carried out at multiple Pratt & Whitney facilities through 2030. The majority of the work will take place in Connecticut, including East Hartford, which will account for 59.6% of the work, and Middletown, which will account for 16.7%. Additional manufacturing and support activities will be conducted in Maine, Texas, Washington, Rhode Island, and California. Pratt & Whitney stated that no funds will be obligated at the time of contract award. Instead, funding will be provided through individual orders issued during the life of the contract.   F135 Engine Core Upgrade In addition to supporting current F-35 operations, Pratt & Whitney is continuing work on the F135 Engine Core Upgrade, which has been selected as the official propulsion modernization solution for the F-35 program. The company said the upgrade will use the existing F135 sustainment network and is intended to improve fleet readiness while supporting the long-term operational requirements of F-35 operators around the world.

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-31 13:35:47

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. military has received its first batch of 2,000 F10 first-person view (FPV) strike drones manufactured by Ukrainian company F-Drones, marking the first official export of fully assembled Ukrainian-made combat drones to the United States. F-Drones confirmed the delivery to the Ukrainian defense publication Militarnyi, stating that the shipment represents a significant step for Ukraine's defense industry. According to the company, this is the first time the Ukrainian government has authorized the export of complete, combat-ready domestically produced military drones. Previous approvals issued during the current period of martial law were limited to the export of specific components and technologies rather than finished weapons systems. Ukraine's State Service of Export Control granted the export permit on July 1, 2026, with support from the state-owned enterprise Spetstechnoexport. The drones were manufactured in Ukraine before being delivered to the United States.   Acceptance Process and Training The newly delivered F10 drones are currently undergoing the U.S. military's standard acceptance process. Once the hardware successfully completes quality checks, U.S. military personnel will begin training on operating the drones. F-Drones said it has already submitted a separate application to Ukraine's State Service for Export Control seeking approval to provide training services for U.S. personnel. "These units are currently undergoing the acceptance process. Once it is completed, training for U.S. military personnel will begin, covering how to operate our UAVs," the company stated. The company added that the current agreement includes an option for the delivery of up to 1,000 additional F10 drones after the acceptance process is completed.   Part of the Pentagon's Drone Dominance Program The delivery is part of the Gauntlet I phase of the Pentagon's Drone Dominance Program, a U.S. Department of Defense initiative aimed at rapidly acquiring more than 200,000 tactical drones by 2027. The program is backed by approximately $1 billion to $1.1 billion in funding and focuses on procuring drones capable of delivering lethal effects in demanding battlefield conditions. F-Drones secured its place in the program together with its U.S. partner, UDD Tech Corp. (Ukrainian Defense Drones Tech Corp.). During the Gauntlet I evaluations held at Fort Benning, Georgia, in February 2026, the F10 drone was tested by U.S. soldiers in field operations and long-range strike scenarios. The system finished sixth among 25 competing platforms and was selected among the top-performing companies to receive prototype procurement contracts.   Manufacturing Partnership in the United States To expand cooperation with the U.S. defense sector, UDD Tech Corp. is establishing a manufacturing facility in Holland, Ohio. According to the company, the goal is to gradually shift from importing completed Ukrainian-made drones to manufacturing the systems within the United States. F-Drones Chief Executive Officer Stas Khutor said exports help strengthen Ukraine's defense industry rather than reduce supplies available to its armed forces. "Exports are a tool for scaling up production, attracting investment, advancing technology, raising quality standards, and strengthening international cooperation. It does not mean 'less for the front line'. On the contrary, a stronger industry means stronger Armed Forces," Khutor said.   Gauntlet II Evaluations Underway The Drone Dominance Program consists of four competitive Gauntlet phases, with Gauntlet II now underway. F-Drones and UDD Tech Corp. have qualified for the second phase, which will focus on night operations, urban environments, and close-quarters combat. As part of the upcoming evaluations, the company plans to deliver 120 additional F10 drones for use by U.S. military personnel during testing. According to company information, the trials are scheduled for late August 2026 at Camp Grayling, Michigan, where U.S. military operators will independently evaluate the drones across multiple combat mission scenarios. The results of the Gauntlet II evaluations will help determine future procurement decisions. Depending on performance, F-Drones could become eligible for a follow-on agreement covering up to 9,000 additional drones.   Expanding International Cooperation Alongside its U.S. partnership, F-Drones is also expanding its presence in Europe. The company recently became a founding member of the Ukraine–EU Drone Alliance, an initiative established to strengthen cooperation between Ukrainian and European drone manufacturers and increase production capacity for unmanned systems. The first shipment of 2,000 F10 FPV drones marks both the beginning of operational deliveries to the U.S. military and the first officially approved export of fully assembled Ukrainian combat drones, reflecting growing defense-industrial cooperation between Ukraine and the United States.

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-31 12:40:38

 U.S 

El Segundo, California — The U.S. Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) and Atlanta-based hypersonic aircraft company Hermeus have successfully completed an unmanned stores separation flight test with the Quarterhorse uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV), marking another milestone in the Hypersonic and High-Cadence Airborne Testing Capabilities (HyCAT) program. The successful flight demonstrated that the Quarterhorse aircraft can safely release an external payload during flight, an important requirement for military aircraft designed to carry and deploy equipment such as munitions, sensor pods, or electronic warfare systems. Until this capability is validated, an aircraft remains primarily a research and testing platform rather than one capable of operational payload deployment. DIU described the achievement as another important milestone for the HyCAT program, noting that the stores separation test was completed during the program's fifth flight since spring 2026. "Another huge HyCAT milestone, a successful unmanned stores separation flight test with Hermeus. This was only the program's 5th flight since the Spring. Tests like this usually take years. We're moving 4x as fast," DIU stated.   Stores Separation Test Validates Safe Payload Release A stores separation test verifies that an external payload can be released safely without striking the aircraft or disrupting its flight. The process is considered a critical certification step for any military aircraft expected to carry external stores. The challenge becomes greater at high subsonic and transonic speeds, where airflow around the aircraft and released object becomes increasingly complex. If a payload does not separate correctly, it could collide with the aircraft or create flight instability. The successful demonstration provides engineers with flight data that can be used to model payload releases at progressively higher speeds as the Quarterhorse flight test program expands.   HyCAT Program Aims to Accelerate Hypersonic Testing The HyCAT program was launched by the Defense Innovation Unit in early 2023 to accelerate hypersonic flight testing by working with commercial aerospace companies instead of relying solely on traditional defense acquisition processes. Hypersonic flight testing has historically faced challenges including limited wind tunnel capacity, restricted access to specialized test ranges, and the technical complexity of sustained flight above Mach 5. Through partnerships with private industry and the use of commercial investment alongside government funding, DIU aims to shorten development timelines and generate flight data more rapidly than conventional programs.   Quarterhorse Supports Future High-Speed Aircraft Development The aircraft used during the test was Hermeus' Quarterhorse, an uncrewed experimental aircraft developed to mature technologies for future high-speed military aircraft. According to Hermeus, Quarterhorse is powered by its Chimera turbine-based combined-cycle (TBCC) propulsion system, built around a modified General Electric J85 turbojet core. The engine is designed to operate as a conventional turbojet at lower speeds before transitioning to another propulsion mode as the aircraft approaches higher-speed flight, allowing one propulsion system to support multiple flight regimes. Earlier in 2026, Hermeus reported that Quarterhorse reached Mach 1.21, approximately 930 miles per hour (1,497 km/h), during a previous flight. The company plans to expand the aircraft's flight envelope toward Mach 3 by 2027.   Expanded DIU-Hermeus Partnership DIU first selected Hermeus for the HyCAT program in November 2023 with a contract valued at $23 million to demonstrate propulsion, thermal management, power generation, and mission-system technologies. In May 2026, the partnership expanded through a $159 million contract modification, increasing the total contract ceiling to $219 million. Under the updated agreement, Hermeus will continue Quarterhorse flight testing throughout 2026 and 2027 while providing flight data to DIU, the U.S. Air Force, and the U.S. Navy. The expanded work includes high-Mach flight demonstrations and high-speed payload release testing to support future military aircraft concepts. Hermeus has stated that Quarterhorse is intended as a technology development platform rather than an operational aircraft. The company plans to apply the knowledge gained from Quarterhorse to its future uncrewed aircraft, Darkhorse. Hermeus describes Darkhorse as a reusable, multi-mission hypersonic uncrewed aircraft intended for strike and reconnaissance missions. The company has said the platform will incorporate propulsion, structural, and thermal management technologies validated through the Quarterhorse flight test program. Defense analysts have also noted that future high-speed uncrewed aircraft could complement programs such as the U.S. Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft initiative or operate independently in strike and electronic attack roles.   HyCAT Continues to Expand The HyCAT program has recorded additional progress during 2026. In February, Rocket Lab's HASTE suborbital launch vehicle carried the DART AE hypersonic testbed, developed by Australian company Hypersonix, during the Cassowary Vex mission. The flight exceeded Mach 5 and collected propulsion, trajectory, and vehicle performance data under hypersonic flight conditions. DIU is also advancing the next phase of the program, HyCAT 2, which includes work with California-based NXTRAC to develop guidance, navigation, and control technologies for future hypersonic test vehicles. The latest stores separation demonstration adds another validated capability to the Quarterhorse flight test program and provides additional flight data to support the continued development of future high-speed military aircraft under the HyCAT initiative.

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-31 11:25:39

 U.S 

ROLLING MEADOWS, Ill. — The U.S. military has awarded Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. a multiyear indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract with a maximum value of $1.84 billion to continue the production, sustainment, and modernization of the AN/AAQ-28 LITENING Comprehensive Advanced Targeting Pod (CATP). The contract, announced in the U.S. Department of War's contracts list for July 30, 2026, allows the government to place orders under the agreement through Dec. 31, 2035. It covers the production and delivery of new LITENING targeting pods, along with operational support, sustainment, and modifications for systems already in service. An initial obligation of approximately $42.9 million in fiscal 2026 operations and maintenance funds was made at the time of the award. The contract begins immediately, with details of the initial execution phase remaining limited. The firm-fixed-price agreement was awarded through a sole-source acquisition managed by the Precision Attack Contracting Branch at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, under contract number FA8540-26-D-B001. All manufacturing and engineering work will be carried out at Northrop Grumman's facility in Rolling Meadows, Illinois.   Advanced Targeting System The AN/AAQ-28 LITENING is an electro-optical and infrared (EO/IR) targeting pod designed to detect, acquire, identify, and track targets at extended ranges. It provides targeting and surveillance capabilities for a wide range of military missions. The system incorporates a high-resolution forward-looking infrared (FLIR) sensor, a charge-coupled device (CCD) television camera for daytime operations, and a laser designator for guiding precision-guided munitions. The pod weighs 459 pounds (208 kilograms) and measures just over seven feet in length. It is mounted externally on aircraft and features a modular architecture that allows capability upgrades over time without requiring a complete replacement of the system.   Operational Service According to Northrop Grumman, more than 900 LITENING targeting pods have been delivered to U.S. forces and international customers. The company states that the systems have achieved operational availability of up to 95 percent. The global LITENING fleet has accumulated more than 3 million flight hours, with a significant share recorded during combat operations. In addition to precision strike missions, the targeting pod supports: Precision targeting Close air support Air superiority missions Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief monitoring   Compatible Aircraft The LITENING targeting pod is integrated across a range of crewed and uncrewed aircraft, including: A-10 Thunderbolt II AV-8B Harrier II F-15E Strike Eagle F-16 Fighting Falcon F/A-18 Hornet B-52 Stratofortress C-130 Hercules MQ-9 Reaper Its compatibility with multiple aircraft types has contributed to its widespread use across different mission sets involving both manned and unmanned platforms.   Industry Partnership Northrop Grumman produces the LITENING targeting pod in partnership with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems of Israel. The company's Rolling Meadows, Illinois, facility serves as a primary production location for the program. The new contract ensures continued production, sustainment, and modernization of the LITENING targeting pod fleet through the end of 2035, supporting the operational readiness of aircraft already equipped with the system while allowing future orders for additional pods under the IDIQ framework.

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-31 10:42:31

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded California-based Impulse Space a $27.77 million contract modification to supply two additional Mira maneuverable spacecraft for the U.S. Space Force, strengthening the service's space domain awareness capabilities in low Earth orbit (LEO). The award, announced on July 29, 2026, was issued as Modification P00010 to the company's existing Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Phase III contract (FA8809-25-C-B001). The modification increases the total contract value from approximately $35.04 million to $62.81 million. At the time of the award, $19.75 million in fiscal year 2025 procurement funds had been obligated. The contract is managed by Space Systems Command at Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico. Engineering and production work will be carried out at Impulse Space's facility in Redondo Beach, California, with completion scheduled by March 31, 2030.   Supporting Space Domain Awareness Missions The two additional Mira spacecraft will host U.S. government-furnished surveillance payloads designed to support space domain awareness (SDA) missions in low Earth orbit. These payloads will detect, track, identify and assess satellites, orbital debris and other objects operating in space. Space domain awareness is a key mission for the U.S. Space Force, providing information needed to monitor activity in orbit, protect national security space assets and assess potential threats. The spacecraft will enable government sensors to operate from maneuverable platforms that can reposition after launch as mission requirements change.   Maneuverable Platform for Changing Orbital Requirements Unlike conventional satellites that generally remain in fixed orbital paths, the Mira spacecraft is designed as a maneuverable orbital transfer vehicle capable of changing orbits during a mission. This allows operators to reposition payloads and sensors to improve observation and coverage when needed. The spacecraft uses an onboard propulsion system together with autonomous guidance software to carry out repeated orbital maneuvers throughout its mission. This flexibility enables government and commercial payloads to be moved between operational orbits after deployment.   Transition from Prototype to Operational Capability The latest award was made under the SBIR Phase III program, which is intended for technologies that have already demonstrated military value and are transitioning into operational use rather than research and development. The purchase of two additional Mira spacecraft indicates that the Space Force considers the platform suitable for continued operational missions. The repeat procurement also reflects Impulse Space's growing role as a supplier for national security space programs. Founded in 2021 by propulsion engineer Tom Mueller, Impulse Space focuses on in-space transportation systems. The company has also been selected for the Space Force's National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 3 Lane 1 program, expanding opportunities to support future government space missions.   Previous Missions and Space Force Programs Impulse Space has previously flown the Mira platform on multiple missions, including LEO Express flights that demonstrated high-thrust orbital maneuvers and payload operations. An earlier SBIR Phase III contract worth $34.5 million, awarded in 2024, covered two Mira spacecraft for the Space Force's VICTUS SURGO and VICTUS SALO tactically responsive space demonstration missions planned for 2026. The new contract covers only the two spacecraft. Launch services and the government-furnished payloads will be provided separately.   Mira Spacecraft Specifications According to Impulse Space, the Mira spacecraft offers capabilities designed for missions requiring orbital mobility and precision. Key specifications include: Propulsion: Proprietary Saiph bipropellant thrusters using nitrous oxide and ethane. Payload Capacity: Up to 300 kilograms (660 pounds). Delta-v Performance: 500–550 meters per second for a 300 kg payload, and up to 900 meters per second for a 100 kg payload. Guidance and Control: Autonomous guidance software, reaction wheels and thrusters. Pointing Accuracy: Better than 10 arcseconds, supporting stable operation of sensitive optical payloads.   Expanding Flexible Space Architecture The procurement is part of the Space Force's broader effort to build a more distributed and flexible space architecture by incorporating commercial spacecraft alongside traditional national security satellites. U.S. defense officials have highlighted increased activity by China and Russia involving spacecraft capable of complex maneuvers, close-proximity operations and orbital inspection missions. In response, the Space Force is expanding its ability to monitor the orbital environment using maneuverable platforms that can reposition sensors as operational requirements evolve. With the addition of two more Mira spacecraft, the Space Force continues to expand its use of commercially developed maneuverable vehicles to support persistent space domain awareness operations in low Earth orbit.

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 15:25:15

 U.S 

SAN DIEGO, California — A small autonomous sea drone developed by California-based startup Seasats captured close-range video and collected data on a Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy Type 052D guided-missile destroyer in Philippine waters earlier this summer, highlighting the growing role of low-cost unmanned surface vessels in maritime surveillance. According to Seasats, its Lightfish autonomous surface vessel approached the Chinese warship on June 16, approximately 105 kilometers (65 miles) northwest of Luzon Island, within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). The company shared the footage with Reuters, which independently verified its authenticity. Reuters confirmed the vessel as a PLA Navy Type 052D guided-missile destroyer by matching its deck layout, mast, crane, and superstructure with archived imagery. The news agency also verified the location using Seasats' navigation data and confirmed the date through the original file metadata. The incident is believed to be the first publicly reported case of a private U.S. company releasing verified close-range footage of a Chinese warship recorded by one of its autonomous sea drones.   Low-Cost Drone Tracks Billion-Dollar Warship The encounter highlights how relatively inexpensive autonomous vessels are increasingly being used for maritime surveillance. The Lightfish drone costs about $240,000, while the Chinese Type 052D guided-missile destroyer is valued at roughly $1 billion. Seasats CEO Mike Flanigan said the company successfully navigated the drone close to the destroyer and recorded extensive video and other data during the mission. The Lightfish is the smallest vessel in Seasats' current lineup. It can be transported in the back of a standard pickup truck, deployed from a small boat or boat ramp, and launched or recovered within minutes by one or two operators. The hybrid-powered vessel is designed for long-duration missions of up to six months and can operate in Sea State 6 conditions with waves reaching 20 feet (6 meters).   Equipped for Maritime Surveillance Lightfish drones can carry a range of surveillance and sensing systems, including: Electro-optical cameras Infrared cameras Signals intelligence equipment Electronic warfare payloads Active sonar Passive sonar These systems enable the vessel to collect visual, electronic, and underwater information during extended autonomous missions. By comparison, the Type 052D destroyer is a major surface combatant measuring approximately 156 meters in length, with a full-load displacement of around 7,000 tons and a crew of about 280 personnel.   Previous Encounters With Chinese Naval Ships Seasats said this was not its first encounter with Chinese naval vessels. The company stated that its autonomous surface drones have previously operated near Type 052 destroyers, Type 055 destroyers, and Type 056 corvettes during missions over the years. According to the company, the drones' small size and low profile often allow them to operate without being visually detected. However, Seasats noted that both the drones and the naval vessels emit electronic signatures through their radar and other scanning systems.   Regional Tensions Continue The encounter occurred against the backdrop of continuing territorial disputes in the South China Sea, where China maintains an extensive maritime presence despite the 2016 Permanent Court of Arbitration ruling that rejected its broad claims over much of the sea. The Armed Forces of the Philippines recently reported monitoring 26 Chinese navy and coast guard vessels operating in key areas of the disputed waters. The Philippine Coast Guard has also reported an increased presence of Chinese maritime forces, including warships, in the area compared with 2024.   China and Philippines Respond Asked about the June 16 footage, the Chinese Embassy in Washington said it had no information to provide and was unfamiliar with the incident. Separately, China's Foreign Ministry defended the country's military activities, stating they are conducted in accordance with international law and international practices. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said relevant parties should avoid approaching Chinese naval vessels at close range, warning that such actions could increase the risk of accidental incidents at sea or in the air. The Philippine Embassy said it would continue reminding all parties to avoid actions that could escalate tensions, particularly if found trespassing within the Philippines' Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).   Company Expands Production Founded six years ago and based in San Diego, California, Seasats has raised more than $40 million in funding. The company has also received more than $100 million in U.S. government contracts, including an $89.2 million U.S. Navy production award and a $24 million award under the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies program. In addition to the Lightfish, Seasats is preparing to begin production of its larger Quickfish autonomous surface vessel, while a third platform, Heavyfish, remains in the design phase.

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-30 11:33:00