U.S. Navy Reclassifies 19 Virginia-Class Submarines as Guided-Missile SSGNs Ahead of Ohio-Class Retirement

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WASHINGTON — The U.S. Navy has officially reclassified 19 future Virginia-class submarines equipped with the Virginia Payload Module (VPM) as guided-missile submarines (SSGNs), recognizing their expanded long-range strike capability as the service prepares to retire its Ohio-class guided-missile submarine fleet. The redesignation applies to Block V and Block VI Virginia-class submarines fitted with the Virginia Payload Module. Previously classified as nuclear-powered fast attack submarines (SSNs), the vessels will now carry the SSGN designation to reflect their significantly increased conventional strike capacity. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle said the new designation accurately represents the strike capability, operational flexibility and global reach of VPM-equipped submarines. He added that the change comes as the Navy begins retiring its Ohio-class SSGNs and positions the Virginia-class fleet to continue that mission with greater survivability and adaptability. Virginia Payload Module Expands Strike Capability The Virginia Payload Module is a hull extension inserted into the middle section of the submarine. According to the Navy, the module measures about 70 to 84 feet in length and contains four large vertical payload tubes. Each tube can carry seven Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles, adding 28 missiles to the submarine's vertical-launch capacity. Combined with the submarine's two existing Virginia Payload Tubes, which each hold six Tomahawk missiles, a VPM-equipped Virginia-class submarine can carry 40 vertically launched Tomahawk missiles. Earlier Virginia-class submarines carried 12 Tomahawk missiles in their vertical launch systems or payload tubes. The larger payload tubes are also designed to accommodate future payloads, including the Intermediate-Range Conventional Prompt Strike (IRCPS) hypersonic missile. The Navy has also identified the potential to deploy unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), specialized seabed warfare systems, and future surface-to-air missiles using the same payload spaces. In addition to the new payload module, the submarines will continue to carry four 21-inch torpedo tubes, capable of launching Mk 48 heavyweight torpedoes, Tomahawk cruise missiles, and Harpoon anti-ship missiles. They also retain the ability to deploy and recover unmanned underwater vehicles, while selected boats can support special operations forces through Dry Deck Shelters. USS Arizona to Be First Virginia-Class SSGN The future USS Arizona (SSGN 803), the second Block V submarine currently under construction, will become the first Virginia-class submarine equipped with the Virginia Payload Module. The Navy expects the submarine to be delivered in fiscal year 2029. The lead Block V submarine, the future USS Oklahoma, is being built without the payload module and will retain its SSN configuration. Under current acquisition plans, the Navy will field 11 Block V submarines and nine Block VI submarines. Excluding USS Oklahoma, the remaining 19 submarines equipped with the Virginia Payload Module will receive the new SSGN designation. Ohio-Class Retirement Drives Transition The redesignation comes as the Navy begins retiring its four Ohio-class guided-missile submarines, which have served as the fleet's primary conventional strike platforms for more than two decades. USS Georgia completed its final patrol in late July 2026 and is scheduled to begin formal inactivation in 2027. The remaining three submarines—USS Ohio, USS Florida, and USS Michigan—are scheduled to retire by the end of fiscal year 2029. An Ohio-class SSGN can carry up to 154 Tomahawk cruise missiles, although typical operational loads are lower. By comparison, a Virginia-class submarine equipped with the Virginia Payload Module carries 40 vertically launched Tomahawk missiles. Based on missile capacity, approximately four VPM-equipped Virginia-class submarines provide a strike volume comparable to one Ohio-class SSGN. Fleet Transition Extends Into 2038 The Navy does not expect all 19 Virginia-class SSGNs to enter service until fiscal year 2038, creating a transition period after the retirement of the Ohio-class fleet. Virginia-class submarine production also remains below the Navy's objective of building two boats per year, with officials expecting that production rate to be achieved sometime during the 2030s. Construction demand is further affected by U.S. commitments under the AUKUS partnership to provide Virginia-class submarines to Australia. Last week, the Navy awarded a $76.6 billion contract covering the construction of nine Block VI Virginia-class submarines and five Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines, supporting long-term modernization of the U.S. undersea fleet. Navy Highlights Expanded Operational Role Vice Adm. Rob Gaucher, Director of Submarine Programs, said the redesignation recognizes the increased lethality provided by the Virginia Payload Module and will allow the Navy to surge additional strike power when required. The Navy said VPM-equipped Virginia-class submarines will continue performing their existing missions, including anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, intelligence collection, mine warfare, and support for special operations forces. The additional payload capacity is intended to strengthen Distributed Maritime Operations by providing fleet commanders with greater long-range precision strike capability from a stealth platform. The redesignation formally marks the Navy's transition from the Ohio-class guided-missile submarine fleet to a new generation of Virginia-class submarines with expanded conventional strike capabilities while maintaining their broad undersea warfare mission.

U.S. Air Force Seeks New Fighter Engine Suppliers as Production Delays and Quality Issues Persist

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WASHINGTON — The U.S. Air Force has launched a new effort to expand competition for fighter aircraft engines, seeking new manufacturing partners as it works to address production delays, quality control issues, and supply chain challenges affecting several military aviation programs. The Air Force recently issued a Request for Information (RFI) inviting industry feedback on future fighter engine production. Responses are due by Aug. 28, and the information gathered will help shape the service's long-term acquisition strategy for engines used in the Boeing F-15EX Eagle II and Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon. According to the RFI, the current defense industrial base is facing significant challenges, including production delays, quality control issues, critical obsolescence, diminishing manufacturing sources, and shortages of raw materials required for key engine components. "The government will pursue a strategic competition requiring industry to innovate manufacturing and guarantee supply chain resiliency," the RFI states. Air Force Plans Long-Term Engine Procurement The Air Force expects demand for more than 180 fighter engines annually by 2034 and is preparing a multiyear procurement strategy designed to strengthen manufacturing capacity and improve long-term supply stability. The procurement effort covers engines for both U.S. Air Force requirements and Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programs. The F-15EX and F-16 fleets have traditionally used Pratt & Whitney F100 or GE Aerospace F110 engines. As part of the new approach, the Air Force intends to increase industrial competition while encouraging manufacturers to invest in production capability and supply chain resilience. Engine Programs Continue to Face Delays The procurement initiative follows continuing engine-related problems across several major Air Force programs. A 2025 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report found that the F-35 Lightning II engine contractor continued to miss contract performance requirements after two decades of production. According to the report, Pratt & Whitney delivered all 123 F-35 engines late in 2024, with an average delivery delay of 155 days, compared with 68 days in 2023. Aircraft deliveries were also delayed by an average of 238 days during 2024. The Air Force's B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program has also experienced significant delays. A July 2026 GAO report stated that the program, which will install Rolls-Royce F130 engines, has seen costs increase by approximately $3 billion. The report also found that initial operational capability has slipped by more than 15 months, while overall engine program costs have increased by more than 38 percent since 2018, with initial operational capability now projected for 2033. New Procurement Strategy Focuses on Lifecycle Performance To improve future engine programs, the Air Force has outlined five foundational pillars that will guide its new procurement and sustainment approach. Rather than focusing primarily on the initial purchase price, future acquisitions will place greater emphasis on an engine's total lifecycle cost, including reliability, maintenance requirements, long-term support, and operational performance. The Air Force said future suppliers will be expected to deliver propulsion systems that are more capable, more reliable, and lower in cost while supporting a stronger industrial base. "We will implement an acquisition strategy that prioritizes ease of maintenance and establishes a resilient, sustainable supply chain from day one," the Air Force said. Officials said the objective is to reduce maintenance demands, improve logistics efficiency, minimize aircraft downtime, and ensure a steady supply of replacement parts to support flightline readiness. Industry Must Demonstrate Production Capacity The RFI requires prospective suppliers to demonstrate that they can meet stringent producibility requirements and rapidly increase production to support both U.S. military requirements and Foreign Military Sales customers. Companies have been asked to provide information on engine development and manufacturing timelines, along with the minimum production volume needed to justify private investment in advanced automation, facility expansion, and tooling modernization. The Air Force is also seeking details on how these investments could reduce long-term unit costs while improving manufacturing efficiency. Supply Chain Risks Remain a Key Concern The Air Force is placing particular emphasis on supply chain resilience as global competition for critical materials continues to grow. Manufacturers responding to the RFI have been asked to identify major production bottlenecks that could limit future engine output, including dependence on specialized titanium and nickel alloys and limitations in advanced casting and forging capacity. The RFI also requests information on material constraints associated with critical raw materials, including the impact of restrictions on rare earth elements, as the Air Force evaluates the long-term capacity of the U.S. defense industrial base to support future fighter engine production. Industry responses will help inform the Air Force's next steps as it develops its future fighter engine acquisition strategy for the F-15EX, F-16, and related programs. Source : Defense News

U.S. Army Successfully Tests Cannon-Launched Hypersonic Warhead at Yuma Proving Ground

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YUMA PROVING GROUND, Ariz. — The U.S. Army and its government research partners have successfully completed a live-fire test of a hypersonic warhead using a cannon-based launch system, demonstrating a new testing capability that could provide a lower-cost and more efficient alternative to traditional rocket-based hypersonic testing. The milestone, detailed in the July 30, 2026 edition of The Outpost, the official publication of Yuma Proving Ground, marks the successful demonstration of a new method for evaluating hypersonic warhead performance and lethality. The effort was carried out jointly by Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory (LLNL) and the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center (DEVCOM-AC). LLNL, a U.S. Department of Energy research laboratory, specializes in advanced weapons science, while DEVCOM-AC is responsible for developing weapons and munitions technologies for the U.S. Army. Lower-Cost Alternative to Rocket-Based Testing Hypersonic weapons are designed to sustain speeds above Mach 5, or approximately 3,836 miles per hour (6,174 km/h). At these speeds, much of their effectiveness comes from the kinetic energy generated by their mass and velocity, in addition to any explosive payload. Traditionally, testing hypersonic warheads has required dedicated rocket-propelled test vehicles. Officials said this approach is expensive and faces limitations, including restricted flight-test ranges, limited wind tunnel availability, and complex logistics. The new cannon-based approach allows engineers to accelerate a warhead to hypersonic speeds using a gun system instead of a rocket. This enables researchers to study warhead behavior, flight characteristics, and impact performance while reducing the cost and complexity of testing. Project Began with Proof-of-Concept Testing According to officials, the program began about two years ago as a concept for conducting hypersonic warhead lethality assessments. These assessments measure how effectively a warhead damages or destroys its intended target after impact. Before moving to live ordnance, the LLNL and DEVCOM-AC team conducted an inert proof-of-concept test using a non-explosive version of the warhead. The purpose of the test was to validate the underlying engineering and physics while reducing safety and financial risks. Data collected from the inert firing confirmed the feasibility of the concept and allowed engineers to refine the design before proceeding to live-fire testing. Yuma Proving Ground Supported Test Operations Personnel at Yuma Proving Ground played a central role in integrating the testing system and supporting both the inert and live-fire events. Located in southwestern Arizona, the proving ground includes more than 1,300 square miles of desert testing area and nearly 2,000 square miles of restricted airspace, providing facilities for large-scale weapons testing. How the Live-Fire Test Was Conducted On the day of the test, personnel moved to designated safety bunkers while the launch sequence began. A test-purpose truck positioned the Integrated Launch Package at the firing location. After the fuze was armed, the gun crew loaded the warhead followed by the propelling charge. Throughout the countdown, teams monitored real-time telemetry data to track the weapon's performance. Following the launch, engineers reviewed telemetry data along with high-speed camera footage of the warhead's flight and impact. Officials confirmed that the test performed as expected and met its planned objectives. Key Engineering Components The successful demonstration relied on several specialized engineering developments. Engineers designed a sabot package, a structural carrier that stabilizes the projectile while it travels through the gun barrel before separating safely after the projectile exits the muzzle. The team also carried out detailed interior ballistic analysis to evaluate the forces acting on the warhead during launch and ensure it could withstand the stresses generated during firing. In addition, DEVCOM-AC integrated an electronic safe-and-arm fuze, designed to prevent premature detonation while ensuring the warhead arms correctly before impact. Before manufacturing any test hardware, the program underwent multiple peer reviews to verify engineering models and confirm the safety of the testing approach. Addressing Hypersonic Testing Challenges U.S. hypersonic development programs have faced testing capacity limitations for several years due to limited wind tunnel access, restricted flight-test ranges, and the high cost of rocket-based testing. Officials said the cannon-launched method provides an additional testing option that can help improve efficiency while supporting hypersonic warhead evaluation at relevant speed and scale. In a related development, Kratos Defense completed a $50 million, 68,000-square-foot payload integration facility in Crane, Indiana, in July 2026. The facility is designed to prepare multiple experimental hypersonic payloads simultaneously, supporting increased testing activity. Program Milestone Officials said the successful live-fire demonstration validates a concept that began as an experimental idea about two years ago. According to the project team, the cannon-based testing method provides a practical platform for evaluating hypersonic warhead lethality while enabling faster data collection for multiple hypersonic programs. They added that the capability can help accelerate development efforts by providing a complementary testing method alongside traditional rocket-based evaluations.

U.S. Nearly Depletes ATACMS and PrSM Missile Stocks During Iran Conflict, Sources Say

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WASHINGTON — The United States has used a significant portion of its long-range precision missile inventory during the five-month conflict with Iran, prompting internal discussions about military readiness for future contingencies, according to people familiar with U.S. defense data. Three sources cited by Reuters said the U.S. Army has expended "virtually all" of its available Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS) missiles and the newer Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) during the campaign. The scale of the reduction in these stockpiles has not previously been reported. The missiles are among the U.S. military's primary long-range surface-to-surface precision weapons, allowing forces to strike targets from stand-off distances without exposing piloted aircraft to heavily defended airspace. Readiness Concerns Emerge Although the exact number of remaining missiles remains classified, the sources said the rapid use of ATACMS and PrSM has triggered internal discussions within the U.S. government about maintaining sufficient inventories for other potential conflicts, particularly involving China or Russia. A fourth person familiar with the matter said U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), which oversees military operations in the Middle East, has largely exhausted the land-based long-range missiles that were deployed in the region before the conflict. According to the source, those stocks have since been replenished by transferring missiles from other U.S. military inventories worldwide. Defense analysts note that while such transfers help sustain ongoing operations, they also reduce the number of munitions immediately available for other regions if multiple crises occur simultaneously. Defensive Missile Inventories Also Decline The reduction is not limited to offensive weapons. A recent assessment by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) estimated that between February and July the United States used approximately 65% of its available Patriot missile interceptors, while inventories of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors declined by at least 38%. Two sources familiar with internal U.S. government data said those estimates are broadly consistent with official figures. Patriot and THAAD systems form a key part of the U.S. missile defense network, providing protection against incoming ballistic missile threats. One source also said the United States has used slightly less than half of its global inventory of Tomahawk cruise missiles since the conflict began. Reuters said it could not independently verify that figure. Tomahawk cruise missiles are launched from U.S. Navy destroyers and submarines and are widely used to strike heavily defended targets from long distances. Stand-Off Weapons Favored According to one source, the extensive use of ATACMS and PrSM reflects a deliberate operational approach that relied heavily on long-range stand-off weapons instead of higher-risk missions involving manned aircraft. Military analysts have long regarded such weapons as an important capability because they enable precision strikes while reducing risks to pilots and aircraft operating in contested airspace. White House and Pentagon Respond Asked about reports of declining missile inventories, President Donald Trump said the United States still possesses "far more munitions than anyone in the world" and "far more than we need." In a statement released by the White House, Trump also said U.S. defense companies are "making more munitions than they have ever made before" while expanding manufacturing facilities and production capacity. Pentagon spokesman Sean Parnell also rejected concerns about military readiness. "America's military is the most powerful in the world and has everything it needs to execute at the time and place of the President's choosing," Parnell said. He added that the U.S. military continues to maintain a deep arsenal capable of protecting American interests while conducting operations across multiple combatant commands. Production Efforts Underway The increased operational demand has placed additional pressure on U.S. defense manufacturers. Lockheed Martin, which produces ATACMS, PrSM and THAAD interceptors, is expected to play a major role in expanding production as the U.S. Army transitions from ATACMS to PrSM. Raytheon, a business of RTX that manufactures Patriot interceptors and Tomahawk cruise missiles, has also reached a tentative multi-year agreement with the Pentagon to increase Tomahawk production as part of broader efforts to rebuild U.S. missile inventories. Defense analysts caution that replacing advanced precision-guided missiles is a lengthy process because production depends on complex supply chains, specialized components and extended manufacturing timelines. As a result, increased production is unlikely to immediately restore depleted inventories. Debate Over Strategy and War Powers Military leaders have warned in recent weeks that inventories of defensive missile systems, particularly Patriot interceptors, have declined during the campaign, according to two sources. Several media reports last week said those concerns contributed to President Trump's decision not to authorize another large-scale offensive against Iran. However, one U.S. official disputed that account, saying diplomatic pressure from Gulf states was the primary reason for the decision. The conflict has also renewed debate in Washington over presidential war powers. Congress has not issued a formal declaration of war or approved a specific authorization for the use of military force related to the conflict with Iran. Overall Stockpiles Lower Than Before Conflict While U.S. Central Command has continued operations by drawing missiles from global inventories, officials familiar with the data said the overall U.S. stockpile of key long-range strike weapons and missile defense interceptors is now lower than it was before the Iran conflict began. The reduction has intensified discussions within the U.S. government about balancing ongoing military operations with maintaining sufficient inventories for potential future contingencies in other regions.

U.S. Startup Tests Humanoid Robots in Ukraine, Says It Could Arm Them if U.S. Military Requests

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SAN FRANCISCO — U.S.-based robotics startup Foundation Future Industries has tested its humanoid robots in Ukraine for logistics and reconnaissance missions, marking an early step in evaluating the technology for potential military support roles while continuing development for industrial applications. Founded in 2024, the San Francisco company, also known as Foundation Robotics, developed the Phantom humanoid robot, which stands about 5 feet 9 inches tall, weighs approximately 180 pounds, and can carry a 44-pound payload. The company has secured approximately $24 million in research contracts from the U.S. Army, Navy, and Air Force to study the use of humanoid robots for inspection, logistics, and weapons handling. Earlier this year, Foundation deployed two unarmed Phantom MK-1 robots to Ukraine for logistics and scouting tasks. According to the company, this was the first known use of humanoid robots in an active combat zone. The robots were used for supply pickup operations and movement through hazardous areas, helping perform tasks that normally expose soldiers to risk. Foundation plans to send an upgraded Phantom 2 later this year. The company says the new model is expected to offer roughly double the payload capacity along with improved water and dust resistance. Focus on Military Support CEO and co-founder Sankaet Pathak said the company's current focus is on logistics and reconnaissance, not combat operations. He said humanoid robots could reduce risks to military personnel by operating in dangerous areas before soldiers. Pathak also said Foundation would build armed versions of the Phantom if requested by the U.S. military. The company said any use of force is intended to remain under human control in most situations, although Pathak noted that fully autonomous decisions could be required in some time-sensitive scenarios. Foundation is also exploring "kinetic" systems, referring to weapons-related capabilities, and may present related developments in the coming months. The U.S. military has not publicly deployed humanoid robots in combat roles, and Pentagon policy continues to emphasize human judgment in decisions involving the use of force. Foundation's military agreements remain at the research and testing stage. Dual-Use Platform and Expansion Plans Foundation says the Phantom is designed as a dual-use platform for both military and commercial applications. The robots have also been tested in logistics and manufacturing environments. The company says the humanoid design enables the robot to work with existing tools, equipment, buildings, and stairways without requiring changes to current infrastructure. Foundation has partnered with AMD on processors for future models and plans to lease its robots rather than sell them outright. The company plans to build around 40 robots in the near term, increase production to 10,000 units the following year, and reach tens of thousands of robots by the end of 2027, with reports citing targets between 40,000 and 50,000 units. Government Contracts and Future Plans Eric Trump, son of the U.S. president, is an investor and the company's chief strategy adviser. Foundation and Trump's representatives have said he has no role in day-to-day management or decisions involving government contracts. Foundation says its work supports U.S. manufacturing and competitiveness with China in the robotics sector. The company expects lessons from the Ukraine deployment to support future work with the U.S. military and aims to begin broader deployment discussions within the next 12 to 18 months. It has also reported discussions with the Department of Homeland Security on possible non-combat applications, including border-related tasks. Debate Over Autonomous Weapons The development of humanoid military robots continues to draw debate among governments, human rights organizations, and technology experts. The United Nations Secretary-General has called for international rules to restrict or ban lethal autonomous weapons systems, while the Catholic Church has also expressed opposition to autonomous weapons. Critics warn that greater autonomy in military systems could increase the risk of targeting errors, reduced accountability, and faster conflict escalation. Supporters, including Pathak, argue that robots could improve operational precision and reduce risks to both soldiers and civilians by performing the most dangerous tasks. Experts also note ongoing technical challenges, including reliable navigation, object manipulation, and performance in damaged or complex terrain, while questioning whether humanoid robots will ultimately prove more practical than other robotic systems already in service. As of August 2026, the Phantom remains unarmed in all reported field deployments. Foundation continues developing the platform for industrial and defense applications as debate over the future role of humanoid robots in military operations continues.

Pentagon Awards CACI Up to $500 Million Contract for SkyValor Counter-Drone Systems

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WASHINGTON — The U.S. Department of Defense has awarded CACI International a three-year indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract worth up to $500 million to provide its SkyValor counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) and related technologies to the U.S. military. The contract will support the Pentagon's Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401), which oversees day-to-day counter-drone operations and related procurements across the joint force. The effort is part of Domestic Shield, a JIATF-401 initiative focused on strengthening drone defense for U.S. military installations, borders, and critical infrastructure. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the Army Contracting Command at Detroit Arsenal, Michigan, awarded the firm-fixed-price contract on July 28, 2026, following a competitive process that received 50 bids. The contract is scheduled to run through July 15, 2029. The initial task order, valued at $25 million, covers the delivery of SkyValor systems for deployment at critical mission locations. Neither the Department of Defense nor CACI has publicly identified the deployment sites or disclosed how many systems will ultimately be delivered under the agreement. SkyValor Designed for Continuous Counter-Drone Operations SkyValor is a trailer-based counter-drone system designed to detect, track, and defeat hostile unmanned aircraft systems. It provides early warning, long-range detection, and non-kinetic defeat capabilities against both small and larger drones, including cellular-enabled platforms. According to CACI, the system combines automated sense-and-shoot algorithms, radio-frequency sensing, and artificial intelligence-enabled electronic warfare. In some cases, SkyValor can jam drone targets from more than 40 miles away. It also offers low-collateral defeat options, including capture nets that can engage targets from about four miles away, helping reduce risks to surrounding areas. The company said the system is designed for 24/7 automated sensing and can address threats ranging from small first-person-view (FPV) drones to larger Group 5 unmanned aircraft. Additional Variants Included Under the Contract The IDIQ contract provides JIATF-401 with flexibility to order additional CACI counter-drone systems as part of a layered defense approach. These include: CORIAN v3, a permanent fixed-site version of the SkyValor system focused on radio-frequency capabilities. BEAM (Backpackable Electronic Attack Module), a portable, low size, weight, and power system that provides radio-frequency detection, direction finding, and electronic attack capabilities. According to the company, both systems can be configured for fixed or mobile operations. A separate contract will also provide a truck-mounted variant of SkyValor, giving military forces a highly mobile counter-drone capability. Operational Testing Led to Full-Rate Production Before the contract award, JIATF-401 conducted operational evaluations of SkyValor at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona. During the testing, the system successfully detected and defeated multiple small unmanned aircraft systems operating beyond visual line of sight. Following the evaluations, JIATF-401 approved SkyValor for deployment at critical sites, and CACI announced that the system has entered full-rate production. The new award follows an earlier JIATF-401 Commercial Solutions Opening contract for four SkyValor units, including one integrated onto a heavy-duty truck. Officials Highlight Need for Layered Drone Defense Col. Tony Lindh, Deputy Director for Rapid Acquisitions at JIATF-401, said the contract structure provides the flexibility needed to rapidly field counter-drone technologies. "Moving at the speed of relevance requires acquisition reform and contracts like this enable the procurement agility we need to rapidly deliver c-UAS technology to our warfighters," Lindh said. He added that using an IDIQ contract helps avoid overly specific product-focused programs and allows the task force to procure multiple systems because no single solution can address every drone threat. CACI President and Chief Executive Officer John Mengucci said the company is preparing to deliver operational systems following successful testing. "Warfighters need a decisive advantage against drone threats that are faster, more accessible, and harder to detect. With successful operational evaluations complete, we are moving SkyValor into full-rate production to deliver mission-ready protection where it is needed most," Mengucci said. The contract is part of the Department of Defense's ongoing effort to expand counter-drone capabilities as the military continues to strengthen protection for personnel, installations, and other critical locations through a layered air defense approach. Neither CACI nor JIATF-401 has disclosed the total number of SkyValor systems expected to be procured under the agreement beyond the initial task order.

US Remains World's Top Arms Exporter but Has Played No Role in Global Conventional Submarine Sales for Over 50 Years

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WASHINGTON — The United States remained the world's largest arms exporter during the 2021–2025 period, accounting for 42% of global major arms exports, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). The figure represents an increase from 36% in 2016–2020, while France ranked second with a 9.8% share. Despite its dominant position in the global defense trade and one of the world's largest defense industrial bases, the United States has remained absent from one of the most valuable segments of the international arms market—the export of conventional submarines. Recent procurement programs by two close US partners illustrate this gap. On July 6, 2026, Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that Germany's ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) had been selected as the preferred supplier for the Canadian Patrol Submarine Project (CPSP). Negotiations are underway for a fleet of up to 12 conventionally powered submarines, in what the Canadian government has described as the country's largest defense procurement program. Estimates place the project value at roughly US$30 billion or more, depending on the final scope and industrial participation. South Korea's Hanwha Ocean was the other shortlisted bidder. At the same time, India is advancing Project 75(I). Negotiations between TKMS and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders for the construction of six Type-214 conventional submarines have reached an advanced stage. Cost discussions have been completed, and the agreement—valued at around €8 billion (approximately Rs 90,000 crore)—is expected to move toward approval by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) and could be signed in the coming months, possibly as early as September 2026. Although both Canada and India are strategic partners of the United States, no US defense company participated as a bidder in either submarine program. A Navy Built Around Nuclear Submarines The United States operates one of the world's largest submarine fleets. According to Global Firepower's 2026 assessment, both the United States and Russia operate 66 submarines each, while China fields 61. However, the composition of these fleets differs significantly. The US Navy's entire combat submarine fleet is nuclear-powered, while Russia and China continue to operate a combination of diesel-electric and nuclear-powered submarines. This was not always the case. Following the Second World War, the United States possessed a large fleet of diesel-electric submarines. More than 200 submarines had been built during the war, and 232 remained in commission afterward. Between the early 1950s and the 1970s, the US transferred many of these submarines to allied nations, including Turkey, Spain, Italy, Greece, the Netherlands, Canada and Taiwan. During that period, the United States accounted for roughly one-quarter of global diesel-electric submarine exports. The direction of US submarine development changed permanently in 1954 with the commissioning of USS Nautilus, the world's first nuclear-powered submarine. Nuclear propulsion provided virtually unlimited submerged endurance, higher sustained underwater speed and global operating range. Following Nautilus, the US Navy built only three additional diesel-electric attack submarines—the Barbel class. By the early 1960s, all newly built US combat submarines were nuclear-powered. The final diesel-electric attack submarine, USS Blueback, was decommissioned in 1990, completing the Navy's transition to an all-nuclear submarine force. The United States has not exported a submarine since 1973, when two Tench-class submarines, including USS Cutlass (later commissioned by Taiwan as ROCS Hai Shih), were transferred to Taiwan. Why the United States Does Not Export Submarines Several long-standing policy, legal and industrial factors explain why the United States remains outside today's international submarine market. Protection of Advanced Technology Modern US nuclear-powered submarines, including the Virginia-class, incorporate highly sensitive technologies such as nuclear propulsion systems, acoustic quieting methods, sonar suites and combat systems. These technologies are protected under the US Munitions List, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), the Arms Export Control Act, and additional restrictions contained in the Atomic Energy Act, making their export subject to strict legal controls. Naval Strategy and Security Considerations The US Navy has historically opposed the widespread export of advanced submarine technology, particularly modern diesel-electric submarines. Navy officials have argued that the global proliferation of increasingly quiet conventional submarines could complicate future US naval operations in coastal and littoral waters. For this reason, Washington has maintained strict control over submarine-related technologies for decades. Industrial Capacity Industrial capacity is another major factor. US shipyards are currently focused on meeting domestic naval requirements, with plans to increase Virginia-class submarine production to two to three boats annually through the 2040s. Existing production commitments leave little additional capacity for export construction even if policy restrictions were eased. Rare Exceptions to US Policy The United States has rarely shared nuclear submarine technology. The first exception is the 1958 US–UK Mutual Defense Agreement, which established long-term cooperation on nuclear propulsion between the United States and the United Kingdom, beginning with the reactor used in HMS Dreadnought. This arrangement is considered alliance cooperation rather than a commercial export program. The second exception is the AUKUS security partnership announced in 2021. Under current plans, the United States intends to transfer up to three Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarines to Australia beginning in the early 2030s. Australia will later build its own nuclear-powered submarines based on a future UK-Australian design under the AUKUS framework. Nuclear Submarine Transfers Remain Extremely Rare Only six countries operate nuclear-powered submarines: the United States, Russia, China, France, the United Kingdom and India. The only known transfers of nuclear-powered submarines have been two Soviet/Russian leases to India—the Charlie I-class K-43 (INS Chakra, 1988–1991) and the Akula-class INS Chakra II (2012–2021). China has exported conventional submarines, including an agreement to supply eight Hangor-class diesel-electric submarines to Pakistan under a program valued at about US$5 billion, but it has not transferred nuclear propulsion technology. European and Asian Shipbuilders Dominate the Market Because the United States no longer builds diesel-electric submarines, maintains strict controls on nuclear propulsion technology and remains focused on domestic submarine production, it has effectively stayed outside the international conventional submarine market. As a result, major conventional submarine export programs continue to be led by shipbuilders in Germany, France, Russia, China, Spain and South Korea, while recent procurement decisions in Canada and India further reinforce the absence of US defense companies from this sector. Source : eurasiantimes

Northrop Grumman Signs $3 Billion Agreements to Increase Production of Patriot PAC-3 and THAAD Components

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ARLINGTON, Va. — Northrop Grumman has signed two multiyear framework agreements worth more than $3 billion with the U.S. Department of War and Lockheed Martin to expand production of critical components for the Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE) and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) missile interceptor systems. The agreements are designed to provide long-term production certainty for suppliers, allowing investments in manufacturing facilities, supply chains, and workforce expansion to increase the output of key air and missile defense components for the United States and allied partners. The announcement comes as the United States continues efforts to replenish air defense inventories following extensive use of missile defense systems in recent conflicts, including Ukraine and Iran. It also follows the recent expansion of Lockheed Martin's Patriot interceptor contract, which increased to nearly $59 billion. Two Framework Agreements The agreements are divided into two separate programs covering components for the PAC-3 MSE and THAAD interceptor systems. The first agreement, valued at approximately $2 billion, covers the production of solid rocket motors and ignition safety devices for the PAC-3 MSE interceptor. Under the agreement, Northrop Grumman will serve as a second source for PAC-3 MSE solid rocket motors while also increasing production of ignition safety devices. The PAC-3 MSE interceptor uses hit-to-kill technology and is powered by a dual-pulse solid rocket motor that improves interceptor performance in altitude and range. The second agreement, worth approximately $1 billion, is a seven-year framework focused on THAAD components. Northrop Grumman said the agreement is expected to quadruple its THAAD component production while significantly increasing monthly deliveries. According to the U.S. Department of War, the two agreements are intended to help triple PAC-3 interceptor production and quadruple THAAD production, supporting higher output of missile defense systems. Production Capacity Expansion To support the increased production requirements, Northrop Grumman is expanding manufacturing capacity across several U.S. facilities. At its Utah facilities, the company is doubling solid rocket motor production capacity. At the Allegany Ballistics Laboratory in Rocket Center, West Virginia, production capability for tactical solid rocket motors is being nearly tripled, with the expansion targeted for completion by 2027. The company's Elkton, Maryland, facility is also increasing production capacity by 25 percent. These investments support the U.S. Army's objective of increasing annual PAC-3 MSE missile production from approximately 600 interceptors per year to thousands of units in the near term. THAAD Component Manufacturing Northrop Grumman has supplied components for the THAAD interceptor program since 2002. The company manufactures interceptor shell cores, aft bulkheads, heat shield assemblies, along with structural components including mid-body shells, muzzle covers, and rail car assemblies. Production takes place at the company's San Diego, California, facility, which uses proprietary bonding technology designed for high-temperature kinetic intercept missions and has operated for approximately 50 years. Company and Government Statements Ben Davies, corporate vice president at Northrop Grumman, said the company's investments in manufacturing and supply chains have positioned it to rapidly increase production. "Our long-term investments in breakthrough manufacturing technologies and resilient supply chains let us pivot from steady production to a production surge in record time. As one of America's leading producers of solid rocket motors, we're supporting the administration's push to accelerate munitions output." Davies said the agreements provide the production capacity needed to meet growing defense requirements. Michael P. Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment, said the framework agreements are an important part of expanding missile interceptor production. "Building the Arsenal of Freedom requires robust, dynamic supply chains at every level of the industrial base. Framework agreements with munition components suppliers like Northrop Grumman are vital to accelerating the tripling of PAC-3 and quadrupling of THAAD interceptor production." Long-Term Investment in Missile Production Northrop Grumman said it has invested more than $2 billion in munitions technologies and manufacturing facilities since 2019, including more than $1 billion dedicated to solid rocket motor production. Over more than 70 years of propulsion manufacturing, the company has delivered more than 1.3 million solid rocket motors. Its portfolio also includes fixed ammunition, warheads, and fuzes supplied to all branches of the U.S. military. The Department of War said the agreements also reflect a broader acquisition strategy that directly engages key component suppliers alongside prime contractors. The approach is intended to provide manufacturers with long-term demand certainty, enabling investments in production capacity, tooling, facility upgrades, and workforce development. The initiative involves the Munitions Acceleration Council, the Economic Defense Unit, the Missile Defense Agency, and the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment as part of efforts to strengthen the U.S. missile defense industrial base.

Raytheon Installs First SPY-6(V)4 Radar Array at Wallops Island for U.S. Navy Flight IIA Destroyer Modernization

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WALLOPS ISLAND, Va. — Raytheon, an RTX business, has delivered and installed the first SPY-6(V)4 radar array at the U.S. Navy's Surface Combat Systems Center on Wallops Island, Virginia, marking a significant milestone in the Navy's Flight IIA Arleigh Burke-class destroyer modernization program and the broader SPY-6 backfit program. The installation is the first step toward validating the radar system before it is deployed aboard an operational destroyer. Shore-based testing at Wallops Island is expected to reduce the amount of testing required after installation on a ship, helping shorten shipyard time and support a more efficient upgrade process. Land-Based Testing Before Ship Installation The Surface Combat Systems Center at Wallops Island provides an open-water environment along the Atlantic Ocean, allowing engineers to evaluate the radar in conditions similar to those at sea. Before being installed aboard a warship, the SPY-6(V)4 will undergo a comprehensive series of tests to verify integration with its dedicated power system and ensure compatibility with the Navy's combat systems. According to Raytheon, conducting these evaluations ashore will reduce the amount of shipboard testing required during installation. "By leveraging the Wallops test site, we'll be able to integrate SPY-6(V)4 with its dedicated power system before it reaches the ship, reducing the amount of testing needed on DDG 91," said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon. "That means less time in the shipyard, more time dedicated to the mission, and a smoother path for future backfit ships." Initial testing is scheduled to begin later this year and continue through mid-2028. USS Pinckney to Become the First Ship Equipped with SPY-6(V)4 The first destroyer selected to receive the new radar is USS Pinckney (DDG 91). The ship is scheduled to undergo its radar modernization from late 2026 through 2028. By completing extensive testing at Wallops Island before ship installation, the U.S. Navy and Raytheon aim to keep the program on schedule while simplifying the transition from shore-based evaluation to operational deployment. Designed Specifically for Flight IIA Destroyers The SPY-6(V)4 is one of four variants in Raytheon's SPY-6 radar family and is the only version specifically developed for installation on existing Flight IIA Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. As part of the Navy's DDG MOD 2.0 modernization program, the radar is intended to replace the legacy AN/SPY-1D(V) radar currently installed on these ships. The radar features four fixed phased-array faces, with 24 Radar Modular Assemblies (RMAs) on each face. The modular architecture provides continuous 360-degree coverage while supporting scalability, improved reliability and lower maintenance requirements. Improved Detection and Tracking Capability Compared with the legacy AN/SPY-1D(V), the SPY-6(V)4 offers higher sensitivity, greater power density through gallium nitride (GaN) technology, improved detection of smaller and faster threats at longer ranges, and the ability to track substantially more targets simultaneously. The radar is designed to detect and defend against a wide range of threats, including: Ballistic missiles Hypersonic missiles Cruise missiles Hostile aircraft Anti-air threats Anti-surface threats It also supports electronic warfare operations while maintaining performance in complex clutter environments. Wallops Testing Supports Fleet Modernization The Wallops Island testing effort brings together the U.S. Navy, NASA's Wallops team, and industry partners. The objective is to validate the radar's performance and system integration before shipboard installation, reducing testing requirements for individual vessels and supporting a more efficient modernization process across the fleet. SPY-6 Family Continues to Expand The SPY-6 family shares common hardware and software across all variants, allowing the U.S. Navy to use a modular radar architecture across multiple classes of ships. The family includes: SPY-6(V)1 – Four fixed array faces with 37 RMAs each for Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. SPY-6(V)2 (Enterprise Air Surveillance Radar – Rotator Variant) – One rotating array with nine RMAs for amphibious ships and Nimitz-class aircraft carriers. SPY-6(V)3 (Fixed Variant) – Three fixed array faces with nine RMAs each for Ford-class aircraft carriers and guided-missile frigates. SPY-6(V)4 – Four fixed array faces with 24 RMAs each for existing Flight IIA Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. The common design is intended to improve reliability while reducing maintenance requirements across the fleet. Production Expansion to Meet Future Demand According to Raytheon, two commissioned U.S. Navy ships are already operating SPY-6 radar variants, while 11 additional vessels have received the radar and are currently undergoing testing before entering service. The U.S. Navy plans to deploy SPY-6 radars on more than 50 ships over the next decade as part of its surface fleet modernization effort. To support future demand, Raytheon has invested $800 million to modernize its radar manufacturing facilities and expects to double SPY-6 production output by 2028. The installation of the first SPY-6(V)4 radar array at Wallops Island marks an important step in preparing the radar for operational deployment on Flight IIA destroyers while supporting the U.S. Navy's long-term effort to modernize its existing surface fleet with advanced radar capabilities.

SpaceX Sends Classified NROL-95 Payload to Orbit in Fourth NRO National Security Launch of 2026

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CAPE CANAVERAL, Fla. — SpaceX successfully launched the classified NROL-95 mission for the U.S. National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) early Thursday, marking the agency's fourth national security space launch of 2026 and continuing the deployment of its next-generation intelligence satellite constellation. The mission lifted off aboard a Falcon 9 rocket from Space Launch Complex 40 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station in Florida at 3:10 a.m. EDT on July 30, 2026. The launch was carried out in partnership with the U.S. Space Force Space Systems Command's System Delta 80 and Space Launch Delta 45. Successful Booster Recovery Following stage separation, the Falcon 9's first-stage booster successfully returned to Earth, landing at Landing Zone 2 at Cape Canaveral Space Force Station. The booster, designated B1096, completed its seventh flight and flew after a 75-day turnaround. It had previously supported the KF-01 satellite, the Interstellar Mapping and Acceleration Probe (IMAP) solar wind mission, the classified NROL-77 mission, the GPS III-9 navigation satellite launch, the CRS-34 cargo resupply mission to the International Space Station (ISS), and one Starlink mission. The recovery and reuse of Falcon 9 first-stage boosters is part of SpaceX's standard launch operations, helping lower the cost of reaching orbit compared with traditional expendable launch vehicles. Fourth National Security Launch of 2026 The NROL-95 mission is the National Reconnaissance Office's fourth national security space launch this year. Earlier NRO missions in 2026 included: NROL-105 — January 16 NROL-172 — May 11 NROL-179 — June 19 All three previous missions were launched aboard Falcon 9 rockets from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. According to the NRO, the increased launch cadence is part of its long-term proliferated architecture initiative. Shift to a Distributed Satellite Network Historically, U.S. reconnaissance relied on a relatively small number of large, highly expensive satellites. The NRO's proliferated architecture represents a shift toward deploying hundreds of smaller, lower-cost satellites across multiple orbital planes. According to the agency, this approach is designed to: Reduce single points of failure. Maintain intelligence coverage if individual satellites are lost. Increase revisit rates over locations on Earth. Speed the delivery of intelligence data to military and government users. The NRO began deploying this architecture with the NROL-146 mission on May 22, 2024. By April 2025, the constellation had grown to more than 150 satellites. NRO officials have stated that the network supports missions including ground moving target indication (GMTI), which tracks vehicles and other moving objects from orbit, while also contributing to a broader space-based sensing and targeting architecture for the U.S. intelligence community and the Department of Defense. Role of the National Reconnaissance Office The National Reconnaissance Office develops, launches, and operates U.S. intelligence and reconnaissance satellites that provide imagery and signals intelligence to military commanders, the intelligence community, and civilian government agencies. The NROL-95 mission is also the third NRO launch conducted by SpaceX under the National Security Space Launch (NSSL) Phase 2 contract. Officials from the NRO and Space Systems Command said the partnership supports reliable access to space for national security payloads. Mission Details Remain Classified Consistent with standard NRO practice, officials have not disclosed the number of satellites carried by NROL-95, their capabilities, or their final orbital parameters. While the payload remains classified, publicly released information confirms the mission's successful launch, booster recovery, and its role in expanding the NRO's next-generation distributed reconnaissance satellite network.

Rheinmetall Introduces GMF140 Multi-Mission Frigate with Aegis Combat System and 64 VLS Cells for NATO and Allied Navies

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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.

Saronic Moves 180-Foot Marauder Autonomous Warship From Design to Sea Trials in Less Than 12 Months

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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.

Trump Says U.S. Has Not Approved Patriot Missile Production License for Ukraine

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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.

U.S. Army Tests GM Defense Hybrid Power System for Silent Command Posts During Project Convergence

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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.

U.S. Department of War Commits Up to $820 Million to Performance Drone Works to Expand Domestic Drone Manufacturing

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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.