U.S 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA) has awarded General Dynamics Mission Systems a contract with a ceiling value of $400.4 million to develop the ground segment for Tranche 3 of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), the Pentagon's low Earth orbit satellite network designed to provide missile warning, missile tracking, and resilient military communications. The cost-plus-award-fee, cost-plus-fixed-fee, and cost-no-fee letter contract was awarded on July 24, 2026, and covers software development, testing, integration, and operations and maintenance of the ground segment mission and service applications required to support Tranche 3 capabilities. At the time of the award, the SDA obligated $60,665,380 in fiscal year 2026 research, development, test and evaluation (RDT&E) funding. The work is scheduled to continue through September 30, 2030 under contract FA2401-26-C-0003, which was awarded as a sole-source acquisition.   Ground Segment to Support Tranche 3 Operations The ground segment forms the operational backbone of the satellite constellation. It includes the software, communications infrastructure, mission applications, and operations centers used to command satellites, manage missions, direct tracking activities, and deliver data to military users. General Dynamics Mission Systems, headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, will perform the work across multiple locations, including Scottsdale, Arizona; Seattle, Washington; Grand Forks, North Dakota; Redstone Arsenal, Alabama; and Chantilly, Virginia. The contract team is based in Scottsdale, while the company's space business is headquartered in Chantilly. The new contract continues General Dynamics' role in developing the PWSA ground architecture. The company received a contract worth approximately $324.5 million in 2022 to establish the ground operations and integration segment for Tranche 1. In 2024, the SDA awarded a $491 million contract modification to expand that work for Tranche 2. The Tranche 3 award extends the existing ground architecture rather than introducing a new system.   Supporting the Tracking Layer The Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture is a network of satellites in low Earth orbit designed to provide resilient military space capabilities, including communications, missile warning, missile tracking, and related missions. The Tracking Layer is responsible for detecting missile launches and generating tracking data that supports missile intercept operations. The new ground segment will support the operation and integration of the Tranche 3 Tracking Layer satellites after they are deployed. In December 2025, the SDA awarded approximately $3.5 billion in contracts to build 72 Tranche 3 Tracking Layer satellites. Lockheed Martin, Rocket Lab, Northrop Grumman, and L3Harris Technologies each received contracts to manufacture 18 satellites, with launches planned no earlier than fiscal year 2029.   PWSA Expansion Continues The PWSA is being developed through a spiral acquisition approach, with new tranches introducing additional capabilities at regular intervals. According to the SDA, Tranche 1 is planned to include 154 operational satellites—126 Transport Layer satellites and 28 Tracking Layer satellites—along with four demonstration spacecraft operating at an altitude of approximately 1,000 kilometers (620 miles). As of mid-July 2026, the agency had placed 63 Tranche 1 satellites into orbit, including more than 60 data transport satellites. Initial warfighting capability for Tranche 1 is expected in 2027.   Existing Operations Centers The Tranche 3 ground segment will integrate with the SDA's existing Space Operations Centers located in Grand Forks, North Dakota, and Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, which currently manage Tranche 1 satellite operations. Once the Tranche 3 Tracking Layer satellites enter service, the new ground infrastructure will support their integration with the existing PWSA architecture, enabling command, control, mission management, and operational support across the expanding satellite network.       Source : gurufocus

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-25 12:06:49

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army has placed its first domestic order for newly produced PAC-2 Guidance Enhanced Missile-Tactical (GEM-T) Patriot interceptors in more than three decades, marking a significant change in its Patriot missile procurement strategy as it works to replenish air defense stockpiles. Although PAC-2 interceptors are older and generally less capable than the newer PAC-3 variants, the Army is returning to domestic procurement of the missile as it seeks to rebuild its Patriot inventory. The domestic production order was announced by RTX during its second-quarter fiscal 2026 earnings call on July 23. Christopher Calio, President and CEO of RTX, said the company received nearly $20 billion in awards during the quarter, resulting in a book-to-bill ratio of 2.4. “These bookings included over $5 billion of GEM-T Patriot effectors, driven by international customers, and our first domestic GEM-T production order in over 30 years,” Calio said during the earnings call. The domestic order is linked to a $441.6 million U.S. Army contract modification awarded on April 30, 2026, for the procurement of Patriot GEM-T missiles in support of Operation Epic Fury, the ongoing U.S. military campaign against Iran. Contract work is being carried out in Chambersburg, Pennsylvania.   Shift in Procurement Strategy For many years, the U.S. Army focused its domestic Patriot missile procurement on the newer PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) interceptors produced by Lockheed Martin. During that period, the Army did not place new domestic production orders for Raytheon's PAC-2 interceptors, instead relying on existing PAC-2 inventories and upgrading older MIM-104D missiles to the GEM-T configuration. The latest order marks the first return to domestic procurement of newly built PAC-2 GEM-T missiles in more than 30 years.   Stockpile Replenishment Drives the Order The new procurement comes as the Pentagon seeks to rebuild Patriot missile inventories following extensive air defense operations. According to a Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) report published in May, U.S. forces fired an estimated 1,060 to 1,430 Patriot interceptors against Iranian ballistic missiles and drone swarms. At the same time, continued demand for Patriot systems from operations involving Ukraine, Israel, and the Gulf region has increased pressure on missile production and defense industry capacity. To help restore munitions inventories, the Trump administration has requested $67.1 billion in supplemental military funding, with a significant portion allocated to replenishing missile stockpiles.   PAC-2 GEM-T and PAC-3 Serve Different Roles The Guidance Enhanced Missile-Tactical (GEM-T) is an upgraded version of the PAC-2 Patriot interceptor. It is designed to improve performance against tactical ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, and drones. Unlike the PAC-3 interceptor, which uses a hit-to-kill approach, the GEM-T employs a blast-fragmentation warhead combined with a proximity fuze. Current Patriot launchers are capable of carrying both PAC-2 GEM-T and PAC-3 interceptors at the same time, allowing operators to select the most suitable interceptor based on the type of threat. Raytheon produces the PAC-2 family of Patriot interceptors, while Lockheed Martin manufactures the PAC-3 series.   Congress Seeks Answers on Patriot Inventories The renewed purchase of PAC-2 GEM-T missiles has also drawn attention in Congress. In a June report accompanying the draft Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA), the House Armed Services Committee questioned the Army's long-standing emphasis on PAC-3 procurement and noted that the PAC-2 GEM-T has effectively complemented the PAC-3 MSE during real-world engagements. The committee directed the Secretary of the Army to provide a briefing by March 1, 2027, covering: The capabilities and limitations of PAC-2 GEM-T and PAC-3 MSE interceptors against current and emerging threats. Current Patriot missile stockpile levels, remaining shelf life, and planned deliveries under the Future Years Defense Plan (FYDP). The Army's Total Munitions Requirement for the Patriot system. Options to address inventory shortages, including additional PAC-2 procurement and potential next-generation air and missile defense systems.   Production Will Take Time Although the Army has awarded the $441.6 million contract for new PAC-2 GEM-T missiles, rebuilding Patriot inventories is expected to be a long-term effort. Patriot interceptors are complex precision-guided weapons with lengthy production timelines, and new missile contracts typically require several years from award to final delivery. The latest procurement reflects the Army's effort to restore missile inventories while maintaining a mix of PAC-2 GEM-T and PAC-3 interceptors to meet current and future air and missile defense requirements. Source : twz

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-24 13:50:00

 U.S 

MELBOURNE, Florida — Northrop Grumman has received a contract valued at up to $1.196 billion from the U.S. Department of Defense to manufacture and deliver three additional E-2D Advanced Hawkeye airborne early warning and command aircraft for the U.S. Navy. The aircraft are scheduled for delivery by the end of December 2031. The sole-source, undefinitized contract obligates approximately $583.4 million in fiscal year 2026 aircraft procurement funding at the time of the award. The procurement is being managed by the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR), headquartered in Patuxent River, Maryland.   Aircraft to Be Built in Block II Configuration The three aircraft will be produced in the Block II configuration. According to the contract details, this configuration includes improvements to mission systems, computing architecture, and other capabilities to keep the platform effective in modern operations. The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye is the U.S. Navy's carrier-based airborne early warning and command aircraft. It provides 360-degree surveillance, command and control, battle management, and theater missile defense. The aircraft also supports carrier strike groups by providing long-range situational awareness and can track multiple air and surface targets while directing friendly aircraft during operations.   Production Across Multiple Facilities Manufacturing and assembly work will be carried out at several Northrop Grumman facilities across the United States and overseas. Approximately 30% of the work will be performed in Melbourne, Florida, followed by 18% in St. Augustine, Florida, and 14% in Liverpool, New York. Additional component manufacturing will take place at other locations in the United States, as well as in France and the United Kingdom.   Contract Supports Production Line Continuity The latest order helps maintain continuity of the E-2D production line. Before this award, initial funding had already begun for a planned production wind-down because of a recent lack of domestic and international orders. Northrop Grumman currently has a production backlog of approximately 28 E-2D aircraft. The new contract helps sustain production, the workforce, and the supply chain in the near term while the company continues efforts to secure additional orders.   Focus on Future Export Opportunities Northrop Grumman is working with the U.S. federal administration to support potential E-2D sales to international customers. Defense industry discussions have identified Egypt, India, and Poland as potential export markets. Poland is reportedly evaluating the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye as a possible replacement for its Saab 340AEW airborne early warning aircraft. Japan already operates the E-2D, and the company continues to pursue additional international opportunities.   Modernization of Existing Fleet Continues In addition to manufacturing new aircraft, Northrop Grumman is carrying out modernization work on E-2D aircraft already in service. The upgrades include structural and fuel system modifications to support the installation of an aerial refueling probe, extending the aircraft's operational endurance. The modernization program also includes cockpit improvements and the replacement of selected avionics components to keep the fleet updated for future operational requirements.   Program Continues Through New Order The new contract supports continued production of the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye while helping maintain the program's manufacturing base through the end of the decade. It also supports ongoing investment in the U.S. Navy's airborne early warning and command capabilities as Northrop Grumman continues production, fleet modernization, and efforts to secure future domestic and international orders. Source : in.investing

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-23 16:41:06

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Navy has awarded Virginia-based CoAspire a $70 million Prototype Other Transactional Agreement (OTA) to develop a ground-launched version of its Rapidly Adaptable Affordable Cruise Missile-Extended Range (RAACM-ER) under the Coalition Heterogeneous Affordable Offensive Strike (CHAOS) program. The agreement was brokered through CMG Networks on behalf of the Naval Aviation Systems Consortium. Under the contract, CoAspire will design, build, test, and deliver the system to the Navy's Program Executive Office for Munitions (PMX-201). The CHAOS program is focused on Foreign Military Sales (FMS) and is intended to provide U.S. allies and coalition partners with an affordable, scalable, and ground-launched precision strike capability for engaging both maritime and land targets. To meet the program's requirements, CoAspire is adapting its turbojet-powered RAACM-ER cruise missile with a new booster and launcher system to create a mobile ground-based strike platform. The missile uses GPS-assisted navigation together with a long-wave infrared seeker, enabling it to engage fixed land targets as well as moving ships at sea. Doug Denneny, CEO and founder of CoAspire, said the company is pleased to support the U.S. Navy under the CHAOS program. "CoAspire is thrilled to support the U.S. Navy with this much-needed, affordable, mid-range maritime strike weapon. We, and our 56 first-tier suppliers across almost every state, are excited to support PMX-201, NAVAIR, and our coalition partners with an affordable cruise missile solution."   Focus on Affordable and Scalable Production According to CoAspire, the RAACM family is designed to support rapid and cost-effective manufacturing. The company uses additive manufacturing (industrial 3D printing) to produce the missile's fuselage, reducing reliance on traditional tooling and lowering manufacturing costs. The manufacturing approach also reduces the number of internal structural components, creating additional internal space for a larger fuel tank. CoAspire says this allows engineers to develop structural modifications and new variants in months rather than the years typically required through conventional aerospace manufacturing. The company also prioritizes the use of commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) components to help reduce supply chain constraints.   Part of Wider U.S. Affordable Munitions Effort The CHAOS ground-launched missile shares significant engineering with the RAACM-ER GHOST configuration, which CoAspire is developing under the Low-Cost Containerized Munition (LCCM) program. The LCCM program, supported by the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Research and Engineering and the U.S. Army, aims to procure tens of thousands of low-cost cruise missiles beginning in 2027 to strengthen munition stockpiles for future operational requirements. CoAspire is also participating in the U.S. Air Force's Family of Affordable Mass Missiles (FAMM) initiative through a multi-year framework agreement covering an air-launched version of the RAACM. By adapting the RAACM-ER for ground launch under the CHAOS program, the U.S. Navy aims to provide allied nations with access to an affordable cruise missile that can be produced at scale using the same manufacturing base supporting other RAACM variants. Source : navalnews

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-23 15:04:07

 U.S 

FARNBOROUGH, England — GE Aerospace and Magellan Aerospace Corporation have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) capabilities in Canada for the F414-GE-39E engine that powers the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E fighter aircraft. The agreement, announced at the Farnborough Air Show, is conditional on the Government of Canada selecting the Gripen E for the Royal Canadian Air Force (RCAF) future fighter fleet. If the aircraft is not selected, the agreement will not take effect.   Agreement Depends on Canada's Fighter Decision The MoU comes as the Canadian government continues reviewing its future fighter aircraft procurement. Prime Minister Mark Carney's government is reassessing the country's fighter acquisition after pausing its existing contract for 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 aircraft following recent U.S. tariffs introduced by President Donald Trump. As the review continues, Saab and its industry partners are highlighting domestic industrial participation as part of their proposal for the Gripen E. Earlier, Saab also signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Canadian company CAE to provide domestic flight simulation and pilot training if the Gripen E is selected.   Domestic F414 Engine Support Planned Under the proposed agreement, GE Aerospace would train and license Magellan Aerospace to become Canada's domestic centre of excellence for F414 engine sustainment. Maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) activities would be carried out at Magellan's facility in Mississauga, Ontario. The companies said the arrangement would provide in-country engine sustainment capabilities for a future RCAF Gripen E fleet while supporting operational readiness and long-term engine availability.   Building on a Long-Standing Partnership The agreement expands a partnership between GE Aerospace and Magellan Aerospace that spans more than six decades across military and commercial engine programmes. Magellan already manufactures components for the F414 engine family, including under a 2025 amendment to the companies' revenue-sharing agreement supporting programmes such as South Korea's KF-21 fighter. According to the companies, the proposed initiative would strengthen Canada's sovereign aerospace capabilities by keeping specialized maintenance expertise, infrastructure, and skilled technical personnel within the country. They added that it aligns with Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy and its "build, partner, buy" approach by supporting the domestic defence industrial base.   Company Statements Paul Ferraro, Vice President of Defense Engines & Services at GE Aerospace, said the agreement builds on the companies' long-standing relationship and would provide the Royal Canadian Air Force with in-country F414 engine sustainment capabilities to support fleet readiness if the Gripen E is selected. Haydn Martin, Vice President of Business Development, Marketing, and Contracts at Magellan Aerospace, said the agreement reflects the companies' shared objective of developing sovereign aerospace capabilities in Canada. He said that, if the Gripen E is selected, Magellan would provide maintenance, repair, and overhaul services while supporting highly skilled Canadian jobs, developing advanced technical expertise, and strengthening Canada's long-term defence industrial capacity.   F414 Engine According to GE Aerospace, the F414 engine has accumulated more than five million flight hours, with over 1,600 engines delivered to eight nations. The engine features a six-module architecture designed to simplify maintenance and help reduce life-cycle costs. GE Aerospace said it provides unrestricted performance on demand, rapid throttle response, and zero throttle restrictions. Instead of scheduled overhauls, the F414 uses an on-condition maintenance approach intended to maximize engine availability and keep aircraft operational for longer periods. Source : geaerospace

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-23 14:48:18

 U.S 

RED OAK, Texas — Qarbon Aerospace has been awarded a contract to manufacture composite structures for the sustainment of the U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor fleet, marking the company's return to the fifth-generation fighter program that it previously supported during the aircraft's development phase. During the early 2000s, Qarbon Aerospace produced horizontal stabilizers for the F-22. The company said the new contract builds on its earlier experience, with its composite manufacturing expertise and long-standing relationship with Lockheed Martin supporting the sustainment requirements of the program. The F-22 Raptor remains one of the most advanced fighter aircraft in the U.S. Air Force inventory. Since production of new F-22 aircraft ended in 2012, maintaining the operational fleet through sustainment, maintenance, repairs, and modernization has become a key focus. Composite materials are an important part of the aircraft's structure, contributing to its performance, strength-to-weight ratio, and low-observable characteristics. Under the contract, Qarbon Aerospace will manufacture structural composite assemblies to support the long-term sustainment of the operational F-22 fleet. The company stated that its established manufacturing capabilities and experience with advanced composite structures position it to meet the program's technical requirements. "The F-22 is one of the most capable aircraft ever flown, and we are proud to be manufacturing for the program again," said Michael Canario, Chief Executive Officer of Qarbon Aerospace. "Defense is a core part of who Qarbon is, and we are committed to being the Tier 1 partner the U.S. defense industry counts on for its most advanced programs." The contract further expands Qarbon Aerospace's defense portfolio. The company has supported U.S. defense programs for decades by producing structures and assemblies for fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, and space platforms. It said defense remains a central part of its business strategy, and it continues to invest in additional manufacturing capacity and defense-related opportunities. Qarbon Aerospace traces its aviation heritage to the Aeroplane Vought Company, established in 1917. Headquartered in Red Oak, Texas, the company specializes in advanced composite components and assemblies for commercial aircraft, military aircraft, spacecraft, and business jet programs. The company operates nearly two million square feet of manufacturing space across its primary facilities in Red Oak, Texas; Milledgeville, Georgia; and Rayong, Thailand. Its production capabilities range from individual component fabrication to large-scale assembly, supported by proprietary thermoplastics technologies and long-standing relationships with major original equipment manufacturers. Qarbon Aerospace has contributed to several defense programs, including completed wings for Northrop Grumman's High Altitude Long Endurance (HALE) platform, the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine duct, Boeing V-22 Osprey empennage components, and structures for the T-7A Red Hawk trainer. The new F-22 sustainment contract supports broader U.S. Air Force efforts to maintain fleet readiness through maintenance, upgrades, repairs, and logistics support. Industry partners such as Qarbon Aerospace provide specialized components, including advanced composite structures, that help keep the aircraft operational. For Qarbon Aerospace, the award aligns with its focus on delivering complex aerostructures for advanced military aircraft while supporting the long-term sustainment requirements of the F-22 Raptor fleet.   Source : finance.yahoo

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 14:33:33

 U.S 

FARNBOROUGH, U.K. — Brazilian aerospace company Embraer and U.S. defense technology firm Anduril Industries have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to evaluate the integration of the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M (B-500M) stand-off cruise missile with the Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft. The agreement, announced during the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow, aims to expand the C-390 Millennium's operational role beyond tactical air mobility while maintaining its primary transport capabilities. Under the collaboration, the companies will study the use of the Barracuda-500M through roll-on/roll-off mission systems and conventional aerial-delivery procedures. Instead of permanently modifying the aircraft into a dedicated strike platform, the palletized launch system would enable the C-390 to deploy dozens of cruise missiles directly from its cargo compartment. This concept is intended to provide massed stand-off effects during dispersed operations while allowing the aircraft to continue performing its transport missions. The approach is designed to support agile combat employment by giving military operators the ability to rapidly configure the aircraft for different mission requirements without structural changes. The C-390 Millennium is a twin-engine military transport aircraft capable of carrying 26 tons of payload and reaching speeds of 470 knots, according to Embraer. The company says the aircraft flies faster and farther than other medium-sized military transport aircraft. The aircraft is designed to perform a wide range of missions, including troop and cargo transport, equipment and personnel airdrops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting, and humanitarian assistance. It can also operate from temporary or unpaved runways. With quick-installation air-to-air refueling equipment, the C-390 can serve as both an aerial tanker and a receiver. Anduril describes the Barracuda-500M as a software-defined, affordable cruise missile developed to rapidly rebuild and expand U.S. and allied munitions inventories. The company says the missile family has been designed for hyper-scale commercial production, requiring 50% fewer parts, 95% fewer tools, and half the manufacturing time compared with traditional cruise missiles.   Barracuda-500M Specifications Feature Specification Propulsion Turbojet Top Speed 930 km/h (approximately 500 knots) Operational Range More than 930 km (500 nautical miles) Payload Capacity More than 45 kg (100 lbs) According to Anduril, the first successful flight test of the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M was completed in September 2024. Since then, the company says it has conducted dozens of additional flight tests to validate the missile's maturity, modularity, and payload performance. These tests included demonstrations of Networked Collaborative Autonomy, terminal target engagements, and payload performance validation. The Embraer agreement represents another potential application for the Barracuda-500M. It follows Anduril's localized production agreement with Poland's PGZ and procurement framework agreements with the U.S. Department of War under the Family of Affordable Mass Missiles (FAMM) program. To support anticipated production demand of up to 8,000 missiles annually, Anduril is shifting manufacturing to its 5-million-square-foot Arsenal-1 facility in Ohio. For Embraer, the integration study introduces an additional mission concept for the C-390 Millennium as the aircraft continues to expand its international customer base. The C-390 has been selected by the air forces of Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Republic of Korea, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, Uzbekistan, Sweden, the United Arab Emirates, Slovakia, and Lithuania. Bosco Da Costa Junior, President and CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, said the collaboration represents another step in expanding the aircraft's capabilities. "This collaboration with Anduril marks another important step in the evolution of the C-390 Millennium. By exploring the integration of stand-off launch capabilities for palletized, kinetic, and non-kinetic effects, we are further expanding the aircraft's flexibility to meet the evolving needs of modern air forces. Together, we are developing innovative solutions that strengthen mission versatility, support agile combat employment, and increase operational possibilities for our customers worldwide." Greg Kausner, Senior Vice President for Global Defense at Anduril, said the integration would provide allied militaries with an additional stand-off strike option using an existing airlift platform. "Integrating the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M with Embraer's C-390 Millennium gives allied militaries a new way to generate massed, stand-off effects from a proven airlift platform. Anduril's Barracuda family of systems delivers rapidly producible, operationally relevant capabilities to meet the growing demand for affordable, scalable munitions." The Memorandum of Understanding establishes a framework for studying the integration of the pallet-launched Barracuda-500M with the C-390 Millennium, combining Embraer's multi-mission transport aircraft with Anduril's stand-off cruise missile concept to evaluate an additional operational capability for future military operators. Source : Embraer

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-22 14:24:06

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The United States Marine Corps has selected the Bullfrog autonomous weapon station, developed by Texas-based Allen Control Systems (ACS), for integration into its Light Marine Air Defense Integrated System (L-MADIS), strengthening the service's expeditionary counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) capability. The selection was made under a prototype Other Transaction Agreement (OTA) as part of the Marine Corps' Ground Based Air Defense (GBAD) program. The initial contract is valued at approximately $6.2 million, while the Marine Corps has requested $1.27 billion for GBAD capabilities in its fiscal year 2027 budget.   AI-Guided Robotic Mount for Existing Weapons Rather than introducing a new firearm, Bullfrog is a robotic weapon station designed to convert existing military weapons into AI-assisted precision systems. The version selected by the Marine Corps is configured around the M240 machine gun, enabling it to detect, track and engage aerial targets with significantly reduced operator workload. The system weighs approximately 300 pounds (136 kilograms) without ammunition and fires standard 7.62×51mm NATO ammunition at a maximum cyclic rate of 850 rounds per minute. Bullfrog uses computer vision and artificial intelligence to manage target detection, tracking and engagement. It relies on a fully passive sensor suite, using optical cameras and onboard data processing instead of radar or other active emissions. This approach allows the system to track targets without broadcasting signals that could reveal its position to enemy electronic warfare systems. Despite its high level of automation, Bullfrog operates under a human-in-the-loop model. The system performs target tracking and firing calculations, but a human operator must authorize every engagement before the weapon fires. According to Allen Control Systems, Bullfrog is designed to engage Group 1 through Group 3 unmanned aerial systems, ranging from small commercial quadcopters to tactical fixed-wing drones weighing up to 1,320 pounds (599 kilograms). Depending on the installed weapon, the system has a maximum effective range of up to 1,500 meters against point targets.   Integration with L-MADIS The Bullfrog weapon station will be integrated into the Marine Corps' Light Marine Air Defense Integrated System (L-MADIS), the service's most expeditionary counter-drone platform currently in operation. L-MADIS consists of two Polaris MRZR all-terrain vehicles operating together. One vehicle serves as a command-and-control platform, while the second carries an electronic warfare suite designed to detect, jam and disrupt hostile drones. The addition of Bullfrog provides L-MADIS with a kinetic counter-drone capability, allowing Marines to physically engage drones if electronic jamming is ineffective, particularly against autonomous drones operating without active radio links. "The Marine Corps requires the most sophisticated and accurate possible capabilities to carry out its critical missions," said Mike Wior, co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Allen Control Systems. "We are honored to support Marines with fast, scalable, and cost-effective counter-drone solutions that integrate seamlessly into existing platforms," he added.   Lower-Cost Drone Interception The system is intended to provide a lower-cost method of defeating drones by using standard machine gun ammunition instead of missile interceptors. According to Allen Control Systems, using conventional ammunition can reduce the cost of intercepting drones to as little as $10 per engagement, allowing forces to respond to multiple drone threats without relying on limited stocks of more expensive interceptor missiles.   Previous Testing and Military Adoption Bullfrog attracted attention during the Department of Defense's Technology Readiness Experimentation event at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, in August 2024, where it successfully engaged drone targets during a two-week evaluation attended by military officials, including former Undersecretary of Defense for Research and Engineering Heidi Shyu and representatives from U.S. Special Operations Command. The system has also been validated by Joint Interagency Task Force 401, the Pentagon's counter-drone coordination unit. In December 2025, the U.S. Army Applications Lab awarded Allen Control Systems a $4.5 million contract to evaluate Bullfrog integration across five Army combat vehicles. The company also confirmed that Bullfrog systems have already been deployed with U.S. Army and U.S. Navy units. Internationally, Allen Control Systems has secured export contracts with South Korea and the United Arab Emirates, and has signed a memorandum of understanding for local co-production in Romania.   Multiple Weapon Configurations In addition to the M240 variant selected by the Marine Corps, Allen Control Systems manufactures Bullfrog configurations designed for the M2 machine gun, M230 30mm automatic cannon, and M134 Gatling-style rotary gun, allowing the system to be adapted for different operational requirements.   Company Background Allen Control Systems is headquartered in Austin, Texas, and was founded by Mike Wior, Steven Simoni, and Luke Allen, two of whom previously served as U.S. Navy nuclear engineers. The company recently completed a $200 million Series B funding round in June 2026 at a $2.2 billion valuation, with plans to expand its manufacturing capacity to support growing defense demand. Source : breakingdefense

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-21 15:21:41

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — Lockheed Martin is expanding its U.S. munitions production capacity through four factory and workforce initiatives across Pennsylvania, Florida and Arkansas as part of a long-term investment strategy worth more than $9 billion. According to the company, the investment is intended to increase manufacturing capacity, improve supply-chain resilience and meet rising demand for advanced defense systems. Lockheed Martin said the projects are already increasing production output, improving manufacturing efficiency and strengthening its defense workforce. The expansion supports several key missile programs, including the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system, Patriot Advanced Capability-3 (PAC-3) interceptor and Precision Strike Missile (PrSM).   Pennsylvania expansion In Pennsylvania, Lockheed Martin plans to invest more than $60 million to expand its existing facility in Archbald. The project will double the site's physical size and create more than 700 jobs. The company has also leased a new 150,000-square-foot facility in nearby Jessup, which will manufacture cable-and-harness systems for PrSM, THAAD, PAC-3, Apache sensors and other defense programs. Phased production at the Jessup facility is scheduled to begin in 2027. Lockheed Martin said the additional space will accommodate more tooling, test equipment and hardware. The facility will also introduce advanced manufacturing technologies, including digital projection harness boards, a modular digital-twin production floor for rapid assembly-line reconfiguration, and advanced material-handling automation to improve manufacturing scale and speed.   Florida production improvements In Orlando, Florida, the company has combined three older paint bays into a single high-performance paint facility that supports THAAD, PrSM and other missile systems. According to Lockheed Martin, the new layout enables manufacturing teams to reconfigure production cells in hours instead of weeks. Improved temperature and humidity controls, together with a high-efficiency oven, have reduced cure times by 15%. The Orlando facility also includes five recirculating paint booths, a second high-efficiency oven to reduce production bottlenecks, and sensor-based mix-room controls designed to improve paint consistency and reduce rework. At its Ocala, Florida facility, Lockheed Martin has introduced a Progressive Work Smart Assembly Line for missile control unit and seeker subassemblies. The company said the assembly line uses modular and flexible workstations to improve material flow and reduce waste. Early production results indicate an approximately 50% reduction in hours per unit for both missile control unit and seeker builds. Lockheed Martin said it plans to expand the smart-line manufacturing approach to additional production sites and missile programs to accelerate delivery of systems to military forces.   Workforce expansion in Arkansas To support increased manufacturing capacity, Lockheed Martin is also expanding its workforce in Camden, Arkansas. The company's high school hiring initiative reached a staffing record in its fourth year, with more than 40 candidates transitioning into full-time positions this year to support higher munitions production. The program, conducted in partnership with the U.S. Department of Labor, has now brought more than 90 apprentices into Lockheed Martin's workforce. According to the company, the partnership helps develop a skilled workforce for national security manufacturing while providing local workers with a structured pathway into advanced manufacturing and defense-related careers. The workforce expansion aligns with the recent groundbreaking of a new Munitions Acceleration Center in Camden, which is intended to increase production of THAAD and PAC-3 interceptors. Lockheed Martin said the four initiatives combine factory expansion, advanced manufacturing technologies, automation and workforce development to strengthen munitions production capacity for current and future U.S. and allied defense requirements. Source : lockheedmartin

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-21 15:13:38

 U.S 

ANDOVER, Mass. — Raytheon, a business of RTX, has received a $1.8 billion contract modification from the U.S. Navy to continue the production and sustainment of the AN/SPY-6(V) family of radar systems, supporting the Navy's ongoing modernization of its surface fleet. The contract extension builds on the original hardware production and sustainment agreement awarded to Raytheon in March 2022. According to the company, the modified agreement includes contract options that, if fully exercised, would increase the total cumulative value to $3.39 billion. The SPY-6 family of active electronically scanned array (AESA) radars is designed to detect and track multiple threats simultaneously, including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, hostile aircraft, and surface ships. The radar provides greater detection range and improved sensitivity compared with legacy U.S. Navy radar systems. Raytheon said the SPY-6 radar is currently operational aboard two commissioned U.S. Navy ships and has been installed on 11 additional vessels that are undergoing various stages of sea trials and testing. Over the next decade, the Navy plans to deploy the radar across more than 50 ships, including Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, frigates, aircraft carriers, and amphibious assault ships. “This contract extension reflects the Navy’s confidence in our ability to deliver advanced, reliable and scalable radar solutions,” said Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon. “Our continued investment and commitment to ramping production will ensure the fleet has the sensing advantage to stay ahead of evolving threats for decades to come.” The SPY-6 radar family is the result of more than a decade of design, testing, and manufacturing work, and Raytheon said the system has been validated through operational performance at sea. To support the Navy's planned deployment schedule, Raytheon has invested more than $800 million to modernize its radar manufacturing facilities and expand production capacity. The company said these upgrades are expected to double SPY-6 production by 2028, helping improve long-term hardware availability while reducing overall costs for the Navy. Manufacturing work under the contract will be carried out at several U.S. facilities. Approximately 30% of the production will take place in Andover, Massachusetts, where Raytheon is expanding its engineering workforce to support the program. Additional work will be performed in San Diego, California; Scottsdale, Arizona; and Syracuse, New York. According to the U.S. Department of Defense, the base contract work is scheduled for completion by July 2031. If all contract options are exercised, work could continue through October 2031.       Source : rtx

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-21 14:52:51

 U.S 

CINCINNATI — GE Aerospace and Shield AI have successfully completed integration, actuation, and engine light-off testing of the propulsion system for the X-BAT autonomous vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) strike fighter, marking an important milestone ahead of the aircraft's planned flight tests later this year. The testing was conducted at GE Aerospace's Peebles, Ohio, facility and focused on integrating the Axisymmetric Vectoring Exhaust Nozzle (AVEN) with the F110-GE-129E fighter engine. Engineers from both companies modified the AVEN hardware, integrated it with the engine, completed functional system checks, and successfully performed an engine light-off to verify the propulsion system's operation. The campaign represents the first fully integrated test combining the AVEN's hardware, controls, and engine systems to execute coordinated thrust-vectoring nozzle movements since the technology was originally developed in the 1990s.   Flight-Proven AVEN Nozzle Adapted for X-BAT The AVEN nozzle provides the thrust vectoring required for the X-BAT to perform vertical take-off, landing, and transition between vertical and conventional flight. The technology was originally developed for a multi-axis thrust-vectoring program using the experimental F-16 VISTA (Variable-stability In-flight Simulator Test Aircraft) during the 1990s. During that program, the nozzle accumulated 73 hours of ground testing and 135 flight hours across 95 flights. Rather than developing a new nozzle from the beginning, Shield AI refurbished the flight-tested AVEN hardware for the X-BAT program. However, the company said the aircraft's tail-sitting design requires significantly faster nozzle gimbaling to maintain stability during vertical flight than was required in the original F-16 program. Armor Harris, Senior Vice President of Aircraft Engineering at Shield AI, said the AVEN system is central to the aircraft's ability to operate without runways. "X-BAT is designed to take off and land vertically from anywhere—no airbase, no runway—and that capability lives or dies with propulsion. The AVEN is what makes vertical flight possible on a platform this size and this capable. Taking hardware with a flight-proven track record and adapting it for that mission has let us move through development at an incredible pace instead of starting from zero."   Designed for Runway-Independent Operations Shield AI publicly unveiled the X-BAT in late 2025 as a long-range Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) powered by the company's Hivemind autonomy software. The aircraft is designed to operate independently or alongside crewed aircraft in contested environments where traditional airbases and runways may not be available. Unlike conventional fighter aircraft, the X-BAT launches vertically from a trailer-mounted platform and requires a clearing of approximately 100 by 100 feet. The aircraft uses the F110 engine's afterburner during vertical take-off to generate maximum thrust, while landings are performed using military power. Despite its runway-independent design, the aircraft has dimensions comparable to a fighter aircraft, measuring about 26 feet (7.9 meters) in length with a 39-foot (11.9-meter) wingspan. Its twin internal weapons bays are similar in size to those of the F-35 and are designed to carry up to 2,000-pound-class weapons internally. The X-BAT has a combat radius of 1,000 nautical miles, a maximum range exceeding 2,000 nautical miles, and is capable of operating at altitudes of up to 50,000 feet. The aircraft also generates 80 kilowatts of onboard electrical power, supporting electronic warfare (EW) systems, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) payloads, and both active and passive radar capabilities.   F110 Engine Powers the X-BAT Program The successful engine light-off follows Shield AI's selection of GE Aerospace in November 2025 to provide propulsion and testing support for the X-BAT program. The F110 engine family, which recently marked 40 years of continuous production, has accumulated more than 11 million flight hours in operational service and remains one of the most widely used high-thrust fighter engines. Doogie Russell, Vice President of Edison Works at GE Aerospace, said the testing combines proven propulsion technology with a new autonomous aircraft design. "The integration of AVEN into our F110-GE-129E engine and a successful light off represents a full-circle moment for our GE Aerospace team. By combining our proven experience in developing propulsion systems with Shield AI's next-generation vehicle development, we are integrating the best of past, present, and future products to create a revolutionary aircraft."   Flight Testing Planned Later This Year Following completion of the ground testing campaign at Peebles, the integrated AVEN propulsion system is entering final preparations for flight evaluation. The X-BAT prototype is scheduled to begin flight testing later in 2026, with the recent propulsion tests validating a key system required for the aircraft's vertical flight capability. The program is intended to demonstrate a runway-independent autonomous strike aircraft capable of operating from ships, islands, trailers, and other remote locations while carrying fighter-sized payloads over long distances. Source : shield.ai

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 16:53:54

 U.S 

LONDON — Pratt & Whitney, an RTX business, announced at the Farnborough International Airshow that it has successfully completed demonstration testing of its additively manufactured TJ150 turbojet engine, marking an important step in the company's use of 3D printing technology for military propulsion systems. The TJ150 is a compact turbojet engine developed for expendable applications, including certain autonomous systems and weapons. These systems are typically designed for missions lasting only minutes or hours, making simplified designs and faster production an important requirement. According to Pratt & Whitney, nearly 60% of the TJ150 engine by volume was produced using additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing. The additively manufactured sections include major static components as well as rotating hardware, demonstrating the use of the technology across critical parts of the engine. The demonstration testing evaluated the performance of the 3D-printed materials under realistic operating conditions. The company said the tests confirmed that the engine meets the durability requirements for its intended military missions while providing valuable data on the use of additive manufacturing in propulsion systems. As part of the TJ150 program, Pratt & Whitney invested in additive manufacturing capabilities to support future production and scalability. Engineers consolidated more than 50 individual hot-section components into a small number of additively manufactured parts, reducing assembly complexity. The company also successfully tested a 3D-printed rotating turbine wheel, one of the key components operating under high temperatures and rotational loads. Jill Albertelli, President of Military Engines at Pratt & Whitney, said additive manufacturing allows the company to move more quickly from concept to operational capability. She added that the experience gained from the TJ150 program is already being applied to other propulsion projects, including the Pratt & Whitney Valox engine family. The company's production strategy focuses on improving manufacturing speed and flexibility, particularly as demand increases for propulsion systems intended for short-duration missions. By reducing the number of individual components and simplifying production, additive manufacturing can help shorten manufacturing timelines while supporting higher production rates. Additive manufacturing builds components layer by layer from digital designs instead of using conventional machining or casting methods. The process provides greater design flexibility, reduces the total number of parts required, and can lower production time and manufacturing costs compared with traditional production methods. Pratt & Whitney said the successful TJ150 demonstration expands its experience with advanced manufacturing technologies and supports its broader efforts to modernize military engine production. As of July 20, 2026, the company is evaluating the next phase of the TJ150 program based on the results of the demonstration testing. Source : prnewswire

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 15:49:34

 U.S 

FARNBOROUGH, England — Lockheed Martin has introduced the MORFIUS X-Rotor, a reusable airborne counter-drone system designed to defeat large groups of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) using high-power microwave (HPM) technology. The system was unveiled at the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow as the company expands its counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) portfolio to address the increasing use of drone swarms on modern battlefields. According to Lockheed Martin, the ground-launched MORFIUS X-Rotor can neutralize more than 50 enemy drones during a single flight by emitting bursts of high-power microwave energy that disrupt or disable the electronics of multiple UAVs simultaneously. Unlike conventional air defense systems that rely on single-use interceptor missiles, the MORFIUS X-Rotor is designed to be recovered after a mission and reused, reducing the cost of countering low-cost drone threats.   The MORFIUS™ X-Rotor is a portable, cost‑effective counter‑drone system that can neutralize up to 50 enemy drones in a single mission. Designed for rapid reuse and rapid deployment. pic.twitter.com/J3tvFrgkuf — Lockheed Martin (@LockheedMartin) July 20, 2026   The company said the system follows a "one-to-many" engagement approach, allowing a single platform to engage multiple drones in one mission instead of using individual interceptors against each target. This is intended to help military forces respond more efficiently to large drone swarms while lowering the cost per engagement.   High-Power Microwave Counter-Drone Capability The MORFIUS X-Rotor carries a lightweight high-power microwave payload that is activated once the system reaches its target area. The microwave energy disables the electronic systems of multiple drones without relying on explosive warheads or kinetic interceptors. Lockheed Martin said the system is designed to be sensor and command-and-control agnostic, allowing it to integrate with a wide range of existing military sensors and command networks. It does not require dedicated fire-control radars or proprietary guidance systems, making it compatible with existing air defense architectures. "MORFIUS sets a new benchmark for counter-drone capability—delivering a high kill rate while keeping the cost per kill low," said Randy Crites, Vice President and General Manager of Advanced Programs at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. "By leveraging a lightweight, field-reusable high-power microwave architecture, we provide the most effective, low-cost solution on the market today," he added.   Built on Years of Development The MORFIUS X-Rotor is the latest version of Lockheed Martin's MORFIUS high-power microwave program, which the company has been developing and testing since 2017. The X-Rotor builds on earlier MORFIUS variants while introducing an updated design focused on improving performance against drone swarms. Lockheed Martin said the microwave technology is intended to disable hardened electronic targets while minimizing collateral damage, providing a non-kinetic option for countering unmanned aerial threats.   Testing and Prototype Production The company has completed a series of demonstrations and evaluations in Arizona, California, and Oklahoma, where the system's flight performance, target interception capability, and overall effectiveness were assessed. Lockheed Martin is now accelerating prototype production of both the MORFIUS X-Rotor platform and its high-power microwave payload. Additional flight tests are planned as the company continues development toward operational deployment.   Supporting Counter-Drone Requirements Lockheed Martin said the MORFIUS X-Rotor aligns with the U.S. Department of Defense's 2025–2028 Rapid Response Counter-UAS Roadmap, which emphasizes affordable, scalable, and rapidly deployable solutions to counter increasingly capable drone threats. The company also released demonstration videos showing the MORFIUS X-Rotor engaging simulated drone swarms. As drone technology continues to evolve, the reusable high-power microwave system is intended to complement existing layered air defense systems by providing a non-kinetic capability against multiple unmanned aerial threats in a single mission.

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 15:24:13

 U.S 

PASCAGOULA, Miss. — The U.S. Navy's stealth destroyer USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) is in the final stages of a major modernization program that will transform the ship into a platform for long-range hypersonic weapons. Recent images from Bloomberg Television's YouTube video published on July 18, 2026, and analyzed by X account @lfx160219, show several visible external modifications made during the ship's refit at Huntington Ingalls Industries' Ingalls Shipbuilding facility in Pascagoula, Mississippi. The Navy expects USS Zumwalt to officially return to service in September 2026 after completing its modernization work.   Major External Changes Visible The latest images highlight several significant structural modifications made to prepare the destroyer for its new role with the Intermediate-Range Conventional Prompt Strike (IR CPS) hypersonic missile system. The most noticeable change is the removal of the ship's forward 155mm Advanced Gun System (AGS) turret. In its place, engineers have installed four large missile launch tubes protected by a newly designed wave-deflector structure. The ship's No. 2 AGS turret at the aft has also been removed, leaving only the stealth gun housing in its original position. Another visible modification is the addition of a new mounting base for the FLIR 380HD electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor system, which is expected to improve the ship's surveillance and targeting capabilities. Engineers have also relocated the gas turbine air intakes lower on the hull to help prevent the engines from drawing in exhaust gases from the ship's funnels.   From Naval Gunfire Support to Hypersonic Strike The modernization represents a major shift in the Zumwalt class's mission. The destroyers were originally designed around two 155mm Advanced Gun Systems to provide long-range naval gunfire support during amphibious operations. However, the program faced a major setback after the specialized Long-Range Land Attack Projectile (LRLAP) became too expensive for operational use, with each round costing approximately $800,000. To address this issue, the Navy removed the AGS mounts and installed Advanced Payload Modules, allowing the space previously occupied by the gun magazines to be used for the IR CPS hypersonic missile system. Each Zumwalt-class destroyer is planned to carry 12 Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) missiles.   Modernization Program and Delays The Navy's Build Yard Modernization Period (BYMP) for USS Zumwalt began in 2023 and is currently running about 10 months behind its original schedule. According to government oversight reports and program officials, much of the delay resulted from additional work required during installation of the new missile launch system. Contractors had to remove significantly more cabling than originally expected from the ship's forward section before the new launch tubes could be installed. The complexity of the destroyer's 78-megawatt Integrated Power System also contributed to the engineering challenges during the refit. A July 2026 Government Accountability Office (GAO) report also stated that the broader program to equip the Navy's three Zumwalt-class destroyers with hypersonic weapons is running about two years behind schedule, citing integration challenges, additional cabling work, reliability concerns, and missile production timelines.   Hypersonic Missile Testing Ahead Following its expected return to service in September 2026, USS Zumwalt will serve as the U.S. Navy's primary sea-based test platform for the Intermediate-Range Conventional Prompt Strike weapon. The ship is expected to conduct the first at-sea test launch of the baseline IR CPS hypersonic missile system by June 2027. The missile uses a two-stage rocket booster to deploy an unpowered hypersonic glide vehicle capable of traveling at speeds above Mach 5. An enhanced version of the IR CPS featuring anti-ship capability is planned for testing before September 2030, further expanding the Zumwalt's long-range maritime strike role.   Wider Zumwalt-Class Modernization Modernization work is also planned or underway for the Navy's other two Zumwalt-class destroyers—USS Michael Monsoor (DDG-1001) and USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG-1002). In addition to integrating hypersonic weapons, the Navy is making other modifications to the class, including converting ballast tanks into additional fuel storage to increase operational range and endurance for longer deployments. With its expected return to service in September 2026, USS Zumwalt will become the first U.S. Navy surface combatant prepared to support operational testing of the Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missile system, marking the next phase of the Navy's effort to field long-range hypersonic strike capability at sea.

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 15:13:36

 U.S 

WASHINGTON / DUBAI — The United States carried out a ninth consecutive night of airstrikes against Iranian military installations, continuing its campaign to reduce Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz as regional tensions continue to escalate. U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) said it successfully completed the ninth consecutive evening of strikes at 10 p.m. ET on July 19. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the three-hour operation targeted military command centers, integrated air defense systems, coastal surveillance sites, communications networks, maritime capabilities, and missile and drone launch positions in southern Iran. CENTCOM said the strikes were intended to reduce Iran's capability to attack commercial vessels and civilian mariners transiting the Strait of Hormuz. The operation is part of a broader U.S. air and maritime campaign that has struck more than 140 Iranian military targets since the latest phase of the conflict began. It also supports the renewed U.S. naval blockade of Iranian ports following the collapse of a 60-day interim cessation arrangement reached in June.   Campaign Targets Command Network The U.S. campaign is focused on disrupting the command-and-control network that coordinates attacks on merchant shipping rather than targeting only individual missile launchers or drones. Military targets have included communications centers, command headquarters, coastal observation posts, radar systems, IRGC naval infrastructure, and facilities supporting missile and drone operations. Explosions were reported in several Iranian locations, including Tabriz, Bushehr, Chabahar, and Bandar Mahshahr. Coastal military facilities around Bandar Abbas, Jask, Konarak, Abu Musa, and Greater Tunb have also been targeted to reduce radar coverage and anti-ship missile capabilities. The operations rely on surveillance aircraft, satellites, and electronic intelligence systems to identify military targets and assess strike results. The sustained campaign has reportedly forced Iranian units to relocate launch systems more frequently and reduce radio communications.   Strait of Hormuz Remains the Focus The Strait of Hormuz, about 34 kilometers wide at its narrowest point, carries around 20 percent of global oil shipments and a significant share of Qatar's liquefied natural gas exports. To support maritime security, the U.S. has expanded its naval presence in the region. During the first blockade from April 13 to June 18, U.S. forces redirected more than 140 vessels and disabled nine. Since the blockade resumed, CENTCOM said that by July 19 it had redirected six commercial vessels and disabled one. Operations are supported by the destroyers USS John Finn and USS Donald Cook, while Marines from the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit have conducted inspections of commercial vessels. On July 15 near Kharg Island, U.S. forces used Hellfire missiles to disable the tanker M/T Belma by striking its smokestack, stopping the vessel without damaging its cargo tanks. On July 20, the United Kingdom Maritime Trade Operations (UKMTO) reported that a vessel caught fire and drifted about eight nautical miles northwest of Kumzar, Oman, after being struck by an unidentified projectile. The crew abandoned the ship and was rescued by a tug. Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also claimed that two oil tankers attempting to use the southern shipping route were immobilized after explosions.   Regional Attacks Continue Iran has continued missile and drone attacks against U.S. positions and partner nations across the region. The United States has confirmed that 17 service members have been killed since the conflict escalated. On July 17, an Iranian ballistic missile and drone attack in Jordan killed two U.S. service members. The remains of a third service member, previously reported missing, were later recovered. On July 18, another U.S. service member was killed and one was injured in northern Iraq during the controlled disposal of an unexploded Iranian drone. Iranian attacks have also prompted missile interceptions over Jordan, while Kuwait activated its air defense systems following drone attacks on a power generation and desalination facility. In Bahrain, home to the U.S. Fifth Fleet, warning sirens sounded after the U.S. Embassy warned of potential Iranian strikes near central Manama.   Oil Prices Rise The conflict has continued to affect global energy markets. Brent crude oil rose above $91 per barrel, while the average price of regular gasoline in the United States returned to about $4 per gallon. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said Iran was attempting to use the Strait of Hormuz as leverage and called on international partners to help protect freedom of navigation. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said maintaining the uninterrupted flow of oil and natural gas through the strait remains a key U.S. objective. Military operations continue as the United States seeks to reduce Iran's ability to threaten commercial shipping through one of the world's most important maritime trade routes, while Iran continues to rely on dispersed mobile missile and drone systems to sustain its operations. Source : CENTCOM

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-20 14:05:18