U.S 

California, United States  — The U.S. Army has signed a three-year Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with California-based startup Auriga Space to explore the use of electromagnetic launch technology for counter-drone defense. The research will be carried out in partnership with the Army's Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center (DEVCOM AC), based in New Jersey, United States, to evaluate whether magnetic propulsion can provide an alternative to conventional chemical-propellant interceptor systems. The agreement focuses on developing electromagnetic accelerators capable of launching counter-drone interceptors without relying on traditional rocket motors. The effort comes as the U.S. military looks for more affordable and rapidly deployable solutions to counter the growing threat posed by large numbers of low-cost unmanned aerial systems.   Addressing the Cost of Countering Drone Swarms Modern air defense systems rely heavily on conventional interceptors that are effective but costly and time-consuming to manufacture. In contrast, many drones can be produced at a much lower cost, creating an economic challenge for air defense operations. The issue was highlighted during recent U.S. military operations involving Iran, where American forces reportedly fired more than 1,000 Patriot interceptors. According to an analysis by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) in Washington, D.C., only 172 interceptors were replenished during the same period. With each PAC-3 Patriot interceptor costing about $4 million, CSIS estimates that U.S. stockpiles may not fully recover from the deficit until at least 2029. Production of conventional missiles also faces supply chain constraints. Many U.S. interceptor systems, including the Patriot and Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD), use solid rocket motors that depend on ammonium perchlorate, the primary oxidizer for these motors. The United States currently relies on a single domestic producer of this material, limiting the ability to rapidly increase missile production regardless of additional funding.   Electromagnetic Launch Technology Auriga Space's approach eliminates the need for solid rocket motors by using electromagnetic propulsion. The technology accelerates projectiles along a launch track using electricity and precisely controlled magnetic fields, based on principles similar to those used in magnetic levitation (maglev) trains. Because the launch process does not rely on chemical propellants or explosions, it reduces mechanical wear on the launcher and removes the dependence on ammonium perchlorate. This allows the launcher to be reused for thousands of engagements while enabling operators to reload and fire again within seconds. The company says the lower operating cost means that, after the launcher is deployed, each engagement primarily involves the cost of the interceptor's warhead and guidance components rather than an entire rocket propulsion system. This rapid reloading capability is intended to provide what the defense industry refers to as a "deep magazine," allowing continuous engagement of multiple aerial targets.   Hermes Counter-Drone Platform Auriga's primary counter-drone system, known as Hermes, is a transportable, containerized electromagnetic launch platform designed for deployment in a variety of operational environments. The modular system is intended for use at forward operating bases, aboard naval vessels, and at fixed infrastructure sites requiring protection against drone attacks. Following laboratory validation, Auriga plans to conduct the first outdoor flight test of the Hermes platform later this summer. The demonstration is expected to evaluate the system's performance under operational field conditions. Winnie Lai, founder and CEO of Auriga Space, said the partnership addresses one of the most significant challenges in modern air defense. "Attritable drones cost adversaries far less and are far easier to deploy and replenish than present interceptors, and it's one of the most timely and urgent challenges in modern warfare," Lai said. "Electromagnetic propulsion solves for the structural issues with economics and cadence. It's a working technology we at Auriga are already actively testing, and partnering with DEVCOM AC on further research will bring it that much closer to a deployable capability." Role of the CRADA The collaboration is being conducted under a Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA), a framework that allows U.S. government laboratories and private companies to share technical expertise, facilities, and research without exchanging funding. Such agreements are commonly used by the Department of Defense, headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, to evaluate emerging technologies before considering future procurement programs.   Auriga's Ongoing Defense Programs In addition to the Army partnership, Auriga Space is involved in several U.S. defense research efforts. The company has received a research award from the Missile Defense Agency and a $1.25 million Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant through the U.S. Air Force's innovation organization, AFWERX. Auriga also operates two hypersonic ground-testing systems: Thor, an outdoor electromagnetic test track, and Prometheus, an indoor accelerator. These facilities are used to evaluate how materials and components perform under extremely high-speed conditions. Founded in 2022 by Winnie Lai, formerly a vice president at launch company SpinLaunch, Auriga Space operates a vertically integrated research and development facility in Southern California, where it designs and manufactures its own hardware. The company has raised more than $12 million through venture capital investment and defense-related grants to support the development of its electromagnetic propulsion technologies.   Source : interestingengineering

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-16 12:00:32

 U.S 

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — The U.S. Air Force has successfully completed the first live missile launch from an unmanned Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), marking a major milestone in the service's effort to develop autonomous wingman drones for future air operations. The test took place over a restricted training range in the Mojave Desert using the YFQ-44A "Fury", an unmanned aircraft developed by Anduril Industries. During the demonstration, the drone launched a live AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) against a digital target in an end-to-end, beyond-line-of-sight engagement. According to the Air Force, the YFQ-44A operated from Edwards Air Force Base and received target tracking information through Anduril's Lattice software platform, which processed the data before the engagement. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach confirmed that the AIM-120 successfully tracked the target immediately after launch. The live-fire event represents the first successful weapons test by an aircraft in the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which is intended to introduce unmanned aircraft capable of operating alongside crewed fighter jets.   Human Operator Controlled the Weapon Release Although the YFQ-44A is designed with advanced autonomous flight and maneuvering capabilities, the Air Force emphasized that the aircraft is not authorized to make autonomous decisions to use lethal force. During the test, a human operator received the target track, evaluated the engagement, and issued the command to launch the missile. The drone fired the AIM-120 only after receiving direct authorization, maintaining human oversight throughout the weapon employment process. Gen. Kenneth Wilsbach described the demonstration as an important step in the CCA program. "This live-fire test is an important next step in the development of Collaborative Combat Aircraft. We're one step closer to delivering capabilities to the warfighter," he said. Mark Shushnar, Anduril's Vice President of Autonomous Airpower, said the demonstration validated the complete operational sequence rather than simply releasing a weapon. According to him, the test confirmed the aircraft's ability to receive target data, process operator instructions, and execute the engagement as intended.   Test Followed Months of Development The successful missile launch was the result of a phased testing campaign conducted over several months. Earlier in 2026, the YFQ-44A carried an inert (non-explosive) AIM-120 missile during captive-carry flights to evaluate the aircraft's handling characteristics and aerodynamic performance with the weapon attached. Following those flights, engineers verified the communication links between the aircraft and the missile system in simulated environments to ensure commands from the operator would be transmitted and executed correctly before progressing to a live-fire event. The final missile launch was coordinated by the 412th Test Wing's Air Dominance Combined Test Force, which includes active-duty military personnel, government civilians, and defense contractors responsible for evaluating new air combat systems. Gen. Dale White, the Pentagon's portfolio manager for Critical Major Weapon Systems, said transitioning from inert weapon carriage to an actual missile launch provides valuable flight data that helps validate the program's digital integration models.   Part of the Collaborative Combat Aircraft Program The YFQ-44A "Fury" is one of two aircraft selected for Increment 1 of the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. The second design is the YFQ-42A, developed by General Atomics. The YFQ-44A completed its first flight on October 31, 2025, and continues to undergo testing as the Air Force moves toward operational deployment. The CCA program aims to field relatively affordable autonomous aircraft that can fly alongside crewed fighters such as the F-35, F-22, and the future F-47. These robotic wingmen are intended to carry additional sensors and weapons, perform higher-risk missions, extend the reach of crewed aircraft, and increase the combat capability available to a single pilot. Rather than replacing human pilots, the aircraft are designed to support crewed operations while keeping human operators responsible for decisions involving the use of weapons. To enable large-scale procurement, the Air Force plans to acquire Collaborative Combat Aircraft at approximately one-third the cost of an F-35A, which has a unit cost of about $83 million.   Further Testing Planned The Air Force has already approved production contracts for the first phase of the CCA program. While Anduril's YFQ-44A has now completed the program's first live-fire demonstration, General Atomics is expected to conduct a similar live missile test with its YFQ-42A "Dark Merlin" later this fall. The United States is not alone in developing autonomous combat aircraft. Similar loyal wingman programs are also progressing internationally, including Australia's MQ-28 Ghost Bat and Turkey's Kızılelma, both of which have recently conducted weapon-related testing as countries continue developing unmanned aircraft designed to operate alongside manned fighter fleets.   Source : Anduril Industries

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-16 11:32:31

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The United States has granted the United Arab Emirates (UAE) expanded access to advanced artificial intelligence (AI) chips and other sensitive technologies after the Gulf nation supported recent U.S. military operations against Iran. The policy change, confirmed by the U.S. Commerce Department, removes many licensing requirements for exports of advanced AI chips, military equipment, commercial satellites, and other dual-use technologies to the UAE. According to The Wall Street Journal, the decision follows the UAE's military support during the recent U.S. campaign against Iran, known as Operation Epic Fury. During the operation, the UAE reportedly carried out dozens of airstrikes against Iranian targets, including a strike on a refinery located on Iran's Lavan Island. Emirati forces also intercepted hundreds of Iranian missiles and helped maintain the safe movement of commercial shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world's most important energy trade routes.   UAE Moved to Highest U.S. Export Category Under the new policy, the U.S. Commerce Department has reclassified the UAE into its highest export tier, placing it alongside close American partners such as European countries, South Korea, and India. Previously, the UAE was subject to stricter export controls that limited access to advanced U.S. technologies. The updated classification allows many sensitive technologies to be exported without the standard licensing process. The decision enables the UAE's state-backed artificial intelligence companies, G42 and Core42, to purchase advanced semiconductors from U.S. manufacturers, including Nvidia, more easily. It also removes regulatory barriers for major American technology companies such as Amazon, Apple, Google, Meta, Microsoft, and OpenAI, allowing them to move forward with plans to build large-scale AI data centers in the UAE. The UAE is currently the only country in the Middle East to receive this level of unrestricted access to U.S. technology.   Part of UAE's Technology Strategy The expanded access supports the UAE's long-term strategy to diversify its economy beyond oil by investing in artificial intelligence, cloud computing, and digital infrastructure. The Wall Street Journal also reported that G42 is taking steps toward becoming a U.S. company as part of its broader effort to strengthen technology cooperation with the United States. The Commerce Department's decision follows earlier approvals that allowed shipments of thousands of advanced AI chips to support AI infrastructure projects in the UAE. Companies including Microsoft previously received authorization to supply high-performance Nvidia GPUs for data center projects in the country. Access to advanced processors is expected to support AI model development, expansion of data centers, and other technology initiatives across the UAE.   Political and Security Questions Raised The decision has also drawn attention from some members of the U.S. Congress, who have questioned both its timing and potential national security implications. Critics have pointed to financial links between UAE leadership and President Donald Trump's family. Before Trump's second inauguration, Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the UAE's National Security Advisor and chairman of G42, directed a $500 million investment to acquire a 49% stake in World Liberty Financial, a cryptocurrency venture launched by the Trump family. Senator Elizabeth Warren said the investment generated significant financial benefits for President Trump shortly before the Commerce Department approved license-free technology exports to the UAE. Representative Sydney Kamlager-Dove has also questioned whether the policy change could represent an improper exchange of financial and political benefits. National security experts have raised separate concerns over the protection of advanced U.S. technology. U.S. intelligence agencies had previously expressed concerns that G42 provided technology to China that could benefit the People's Liberation Army. G42 has denied those allegations. Some former U.S. officials have also argued that hosting some of the world's largest AI data centers outside the United States could increase the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive technologies.   U.S. and UAE Defend the Agreement Both the White House and the UAE have rejected allegations of any conflict of interest related to the technology agreement. Jeffrey Kessler of the U.S. Commerce Department described the regulatory change as "one of the most significant achievements of the administration." The department said the UAE has implemented strong security measures designed to prevent sensitive American technology from being diverted or misused. UAE Ambassador to the United States Yousef Al Otaiba welcomed the decision, saying the expanded access strengthens decades of close cooperation between the two countries. U.S. officials have also described the policy as recognition of the UAE's long-standing cooperation on regional security, including its role during recent operations against Iran. The agreement further strengthens bilateral ties while expanding opportunities for U.S. technology companies operating in the Gulf region.   Source : wsj

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-15 15:26:07

 U.S 

AUSTIN, Texas  — SuperCritical Materials, an Austin-based nuclear fuel infrastructure company, has secured an exclusive license from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) to commercialize a patented technology that extracts uranium directly from seawater. The agreement, announced on July 14, gives the company exclusive rights to manufacture and deploy the technology at an industrial scale in the United States, with plans to expand into allied countries in the future. The licensed technology was developed through the DOE's Office of Nuclear Energy, with research led by scientists at the Pacific Northwest National Laboratory (PNNL). It is designed to help strengthen long-term domestic nuclear fuel supplies as the United States expands the use of advanced nuclear reactors and works to reduce dependence on imported uranium.   Technology Designed to Recover Uranium From Seawater Although uranium exists in seawater at extremely low concentrations of about 3.3 parts per billion, the world's oceans contain an estimated 4.5 billion metric tons of dissolved uranium. According to the DOE, this is more than 1,000 times the world's identified land-based uranium reserves, making it a potential long-term source of nuclear fuel if extraction can be carried out economically. The patented process uses specially treated acrylic fibers coated with proprietary adsorption materials. These fibers are placed in seawater, where they selectively capture dissolved uranium ions and certain other strategic metals. Once the fibers become saturated, they are brought back onshore, where the captured materials are removed through chemical processing. The fibers can then be reused in future extraction cycles. After recovery, the uranium enters the conventional nuclear fuel cycle, including conversion, enrichment, and fuel fabrication before it can be used in nuclear power plants.   Commercial Production Plans SuperCritical Materials plans to build its first commercial facility in Texas, although the company has not yet made a final investment decision. The proposed plant is expected to produce approximately 1.85 million pounds (839,150 kilograms) of uranium annually and operate for at least 40 years. According to the company, that level of production could provide enough nuclear fuel to generate electricity for about four million households each year. SuperCritical expects commercial uranium production could begin in 2030 or 2031, subject to project approvals and development. The company said deployment in Texas will require coordination with multiple regulatory agencies, including the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality, the Texas Railroad Commission, and the U.S. Coast Guard. To support its commercialization plans, SuperCritical has raised $4.5 million in private funding and is preparing to seek a public listing on the Nasdaq later this year.   Supporting U.S. Nuclear Fuel Security The project comes as the United States seeks to strengthen its domestic nuclear fuel supply chain. The country currently imports much of its enriched uranium from foreign suppliers, including Russia, France, and Germany. In recent years, the U.S. has enacted legislation banning imports of Russian uranium, although temporary waivers remain available until 2028. Alexander Canon Bryan, founder and Chief Executive Officer of SuperCritical Materials, said the company's long-term objective is to strengthen the domestic nuclear fuel industry. "Our long-term goal is to transform the U.S. from a net importer to a net exporter of uranium and nuclear fuels." Bryan said a reliable domestic nuclear fuel supply will be important as electricity demand continues to grow from industries such as artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing, and robotics.   DOE Highlights Long-Term Potential The Department of Energy said laboratory-scale research has already demonstrated that uranium can be extracted from seawater, and continued development could help improve long-term fuel security. Ted Garrish, Assistant Secretary of Nuclear Energy, said: "Uranium extraction from seawater has been demonstrated at lab scale. DOE has invested in proving that this extraction process works. As the United States accelerates advanced nuclear energy deployment, ensuring reliable domestic sources of nuclear fuel becomes increasingly important. This technology represents a potentially significant contribution to America's long-term fuel security and industrial competitiveness."   Potential Beyond Uranium In addition to uranium, the adsorption technology can also capture certain strategic and critical minerals dissolved in seawater. SuperCritical said future commercial operations could include recovering these materials alongside uranium, supporting broader U.S. efforts to strengthen domestic supply chains for critical minerals and reduce reliance on foreign sources. While the technology has been successfully demonstrated at the laboratory level, large-scale commercial deployment remains the next step. If successfully developed, seawater uranium extraction could become an additional long-term source of nuclear fuel alongside conventional uranium mining, helping diversify future nuclear fuel supplies as demand for nuclear energy continues to grow.   Source : nucnet

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-15 15:09:48

 U.S 

DUGWAY PROVING GROUNDS, Utah — Raytheon, an RTX business, has successfully completed a key technology demonstration of its Next Generation Short Range Interceptor (NGSRI), a new surface-to-air missile being developed for the U.S. Army as the future replacement for the long-serving Stinger missile. The demonstration took place on July 15, 2026, at Dugway Proving Grounds in Utah, where Raytheon launched multiple guided missiles using its soldier-portable Command Launch Assembly (CLA). According to the company, every launch successfully detected, tracked, and intercepted Army-simulated aerial threats, achieving direct hits and target destruction. The successful demonstration marks another milestone in the Army's effort to modernize its short-range air defense capabilities against evolving aerial threats, including aircraft, helicopters, and unmanned aerial systems.   Advanced Optics and Rocket Motor Improve Performance Raytheon said the NGSRI's improved performance comes from a combination of advanced technologies integrated into both the launcher and the missile. The system uses precision optics in the Command Launch Assembly (CLA) and the missile's seeker, allowing faster target detection and tracking. These sensors are paired with a highly loaded grain solid rocket motor (SRM) developed by Northrop Grumman, which provides greater propulsion and extends the missile's engagement range beyond current legacy systems such as the Stinger. The NGSRI is designed as a fire-and-forget interceptor, allowing operators to launch the missile without continuous guidance after firing. It is being developed for use from both shoulder-mounted launchers and vehicle-mounted platforms, providing flexibility for different operational requirements.   Raytheon Highlights Improved Capability Tom Laliberty, President of Land and Air Defense Systems at Raytheon, said the demonstration showed significant improvements over the current Stinger system. "Raytheon's NGSRI saw farther and locked faster, demonstrating superior target acquisition, longer range and greater lethality than Stinger—which is already the world's most in-demand shoulder-fired air defense system." He added that the new interceptor is designed to be easier to manufacture and deploy, making it a more capable, affordable, and rapidly producible weapon for future military requirements.   Program Progress Over the past year, Raytheon has carried out several company-funded tests to refine and mature the NGSRI design. In addition, the company has completed two incremental demonstrations under contract with the U.S. Army. Raytheon also confirmed it has previously completed 10 successful subsystem demonstrations, validating key technologies including the missile seeker, solid rocket motor, Command Launch Assembly, warhead, tracking, guidance, aerodynamic control, fuzing, and safety systems. These demonstrations are intended to reduce technical risk as the program moves toward future production decisions.   Part of the Army's Air Defense Modernization The NGSRI is being developed under the U.S. Army's Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense (M-SHORAD) Increment 3 program. The objective is to replace the Stinger missile with a modern interceptor capable of countering current and emerging aerial threats while maintaining portability for frontline soldiers. The missile is designed to engage rotary-wing aircraft, fixed-wing aircraft, and Group 2 and Group 3 unmanned aerial systems. It is also engineered for compatibility with existing Stinger infrastructure, including the Stinger Vehicle Universal Launcher used on platforms such as the Sgt. Stout. As the original manufacturer of the Stinger missile and its launchers, Raytheon said it is ensuring full interoperability between the NGSRI and both existing and future mounted platforms.   Modular Design for Faster Production Drawing on more than 60 years of air defense experience, Raytheon is incorporating modular system architecture and automated manufacturing processes into the NGSRI program. According to the company, these manufacturing approaches are intended to accelerate development timelines, simplify production, and support higher manufacturing rates if the system enters full-scale production.   Army Plans Future Procurement The U.S. Army has indicated that it plans to procure the next-generation interceptor in significant numbers. A recent Request for Information (RFI) outlined potential acquisition of up to 11,000 NGSRI missiles and 2,200 Command Launch Assemblies over a ten-year period, with initial low-rate production expected to begin in fiscal year 2028. Raytheon's NGSRI is one of two competing designs under the program, with Lockheed Martin also developing a competing proposal. The Army aims to select a system that can be fielded around 2028 to strengthen short-range air defense against increasingly advanced aerial threats. The Stinger missile, first introduced in the early 1980s, has served as the U.S. military's primary shoulder-fired air defense weapon for decades and has been widely supplied to allied nations. The NGSRI is intended to build on that capability by providing longer range, improved target acquisition, enhanced performance against modern threats, and compatibility with both portable and vehicle-mounted launch systems.       Source : rtx

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-15 14:51:26

 U.S 

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — The U.S. Air Force is seeking input from the domestic aerospace industry on advanced propulsion technologies that could power the next generation of high-speed missiles by combining the launch power of a rocket with the long-range efficiency of a jet engine. On July 14, 2026, the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) Rocket and Space Propulsion Division at Edwards Air Force Base issued a Request for Information (RFI) focused on Rocket-Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) propulsion systems. Companies have until August 10, 2026, to submit responses. The RFI is not a contract solicitation. Instead, it is intended to help the Air Force evaluate current industry capabilities, available technologies, manufacturing readiness, and the challenges involved before deciding whether to launch a formal acquisition program.   Air Force Focuses on Rocket-Based Combined Cycle Technology The AFRL is looking at propulsion systems that combine two different types of engines into a single design. In an RBCC system, a missile would launch using a rocket engine, which provides the high thrust needed from a standstill. After reaching higher speeds, the propulsion system would transition to an air-breathing jet engine, which consumes atmospheric oxygen instead of carrying all of its oxidizer onboard. This approach can improve fuel efficiency during cruise and increase the overall range of the missile. By switching from rocket propulsion to jet-powered flight, future missiles could require smaller onboard fuel supplies than conventional rocket-powered weapons, allowing more space for payload or extended range.   Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine at the Center of the Program The Air Force has asked industry to develop concepts based on Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) technology. Unlike conventional rocket engines that rely on continuous combustion, an RDRE uses a continuous supersonic detonation wave that travels around a ring-shaped combustion chamber. This process generates higher chamber pressure and can produce greater thrust from a compact engine. AFRL has been studying rotating detonation propulsion for several years. Since 2021, the laboratory has completed approximately 300 hot-fire tests using methane and oxygen propellants to better understand the technology's performance and operating characteristics. The Air Force now aims to integrate RDRE technology with an air-breathing propulsion system capable of operating across multiple phases of flight.   Shift Toward Storable Propellants One of the key objectives outlined in the RFI is replacing cryogenic propellants with storable, non-cryogenic propellants. Earlier RDRE demonstrations relied on liquid oxygen and liquid hydrogen, which require continuous refrigeration and specialized handling. While suitable for space launch systems, these fuels are less practical for military weapons that may remain stored inside aircraft or launch platforms for extended periods. To improve operational readiness, AFRL is requesting concepts that use storable oxidizers such as High Test Peroxide (HTP) together with standard jet fuel or other compatible fuels. Using storable propellants could simplify logistics by allowing future systems to integrate more easily with existing military fuel infrastructure.   Technical Requirements for Industry The Air Force outlined several technical priorities that companies must address in their proposals. The propulsion system should: Be suitable for affordable, large-scale production. Avoid reliance on exotic materials, complex manufacturing methods, or difficult supply chains. Maintain a compact size and low weight so it can fit within standard missile or aircraft configurations. Demonstrate a reliable transition from rocket-powered acceleration to air-breathing cruise without engine instability, including preventing inlet unstart during the change in operating mode. Use the air-breathing engine as the primary source of thrust during cruise, while the rocket system provides additional performance support when required. These requirements are intended to improve operational practicality while keeping production costs manageable.   Part of Broader U.S. Defense Propulsion Research The AFRL initiative is part of a broader Department of Defense effort to advance rotating detonation propulsion for future missile systems. In January 2026, GE Aerospace and Lockheed Martin announced successful testing of a liquid-fueled rotating detonation ramjet designed for hypersonic missile applications. Conducted at a test facility in Niskayuna, New York, the demonstration showed the engine could ignite at speeds below Mach 3, potentially reducing the size of booster rockets required for future missiles. At the same time, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is supporting similar research through its Gambit program in partnership with RTX. The program aims to develop a mass-producible, high-supersonic standoff missile for air-to-ground missions using rotating detonation engine technology.   Industry Survey to Guide Future Development The latest RFI represents another step in the Air Force's effort to assess how ready the U.S. aerospace industry is to support advanced combined-cycle propulsion technologies. While the announcement does not authorize a development program or award contracts, the information collected from industry will help AFRL determine the maturity of available technologies, identify manufacturing capabilities, and shape future research and acquisition decisions. The Air Force has not announced any contract awards or development timeline. Responses received by August 10, 2026, will be used to evaluate the feasibility of advancing Rocket-Based Combined Cycle (RBCC) propulsion for future high-speed missile programs.   Source : sam.gov

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-15 11:39:15

 U.S 

WASHINGTON, D.C., July 15, 2026 — The U.S. Navy has launched a new effort to develop advanced carrier-based unmanned aircraft as part of its long-term modernization plans, seeking industry proposals for autonomous drones capable of conducting a wide range of combat and support missions from aircraft carriers. On July 14, 2026, the Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Aviation within Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) issued a Sources Sought notice, also known as a Request for Information (RFI), inviting defense companies to submit concepts for a new family of carrier-based unmanned aircraft. The notice is intended to gather information on available technologies and industry capabilities before any formal acquisition program begins. Companies have until August 13, 2026, to submit their responses. The initiative is part of the Navy's Air Wing of the Future program, which aims to reshape carrier aviation by integrating advanced autonomous aircraft alongside manned fighters. The effort also supports the broader Golden Fleet modernization initiative under the Trump administration, which focuses on accelerating the development and fielding of new naval platforms. Eight Mission Requirements The Navy is seeking either a single multi-role unmanned aircraft or a modular family of systems capable of performing multiple missions from aircraft carriers. According to the RFI, the proposed platforms should be able to carry out: Strikes against land targets Strikes against surface ships Air-to-air combat against enemy aircraft and missiles Anti-submarine warfare (ASW) Electronic warfare (EW) Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) Aerial refueling Resupply missions for naval task forces For strike missions, the aircraft must have a minimum combat radius of 1,000 nautical miles (approximately 1,852 kilometers or 1,151 miles) without requiring aerial refueling. The requirement reflects the Navy's need to operate carriers farther from hostile coastlines due to the increasing range of modern anti-ship missile systems. High Level of Autonomy Required The Navy expects the new aircraft to perform complex flight and mission tasks with a high degree of autonomy. Proposed systems should be capable of independently handling carrier landing patterns, deck taxiing, dynamic mission retasking, threat avoidance, and automated aerial refueling. The aircraft must also integrate with the Navy's existing Unmanned Carrier Aviation control architecture rather than requiring a separate command system, allowing future platforms to operate within the current infrastructure. Compatible with Existing Aircraft Carriers The new unmanned aircraft must be fully compatible with the launch and recovery systems used aboard both Nimitz-class and Ford-class nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, including catapults and arresting gear. At the same time, the Navy expressed interest in Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) concepts. Such designs could expand operations beyond aircraft carriers to other naval platforms, including guided missile destroyers (DDGs) and Expeditionary Sea Bases (ESBs), increasing operational flexibility. Flight Deck Space Remains a Key Consideration Carrier flight decks have limited space, making aircraft size and storage an important factor. The Navy is asking companies to explain the "spot factor" of their designs, which measures how much deck space an aircraft occupies compared with the combat capability it provides. Proposals are expected to demonstrate greater combat effectiveness than current fourth-generation aircraft, such as the F/A-18 Super Hornet, while making efficient use of available carrier deck space. Focus on Cost and Production Capacity In addition to operational performance, the Navy is placing significant emphasis on affordability and manufacturing capability. Companies responding to the RFI must describe how they would rapidly increase production during a conflict, provide plans to control unit recurring flyaway costs and long-term sustainment expenses, reduce maintenance requirements, and ensure compatibility with existing Navy logistics and supply chains. The Navy also requested information on planned capital investments, internal research and development efforts, and realistic development schedules. Respondents are expected to outline timelines from initial design through first flight, the first successful arrested carrier landing, and eventual initial operational capability. Building on Existing Unmanned Programs The new effort builds on experience gained through several ongoing Navy unmanned aviation programs. One of them is the MQ-25A Stingray, developed by Boeing, which serves as an unmanned aerial refueling tanker. The aircraft completed its first operational test flight in April 2026 and is progressing toward deployment aboard Nimitz-class and Ford-class carriers. The Navy is also drawing lessons from the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, which is developing lower-cost autonomous "loyal wingman" aircraft designed to operate alongside crewed fighters. Companies including Anduril, Boeing, General Atomics, and Northrop Grumman are developing carrier-capable concepts, while Lockheed Martin is responsible for software architecture that enables a single operator to coordinate multiple unmanned aircraft. Supporting the Future Carrier Air Wing The Sources Sought notice highlights the Navy's long-term objective of reducing reliance on fourth-generation aircraft by introducing a more balanced mix of fifth-generation, sixth-generation, and autonomous unmanned platforms. At this stage, the notice does not represent a contract award or procurement commitment. Instead, it is intended to help the Navy assess available technologies, industry readiness, production capacity, and cost before deciding on the next phase of the program. The information collected through this market survey will help shape future acquisition decisions for the next generation of carrier-based unmanned aircraft designed to support U.S. Navy operations in the coming decades. Source : sam.gov

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-15 10:56:47

 U.S 

SAN DIEGO — Kratos Defense & Security Solutions has received approximately $400 million in new funding from the U.S. Department of War (DoW) to support selected hypersonic systems and other classified national security programs, the company announced on Tuesday. The funding, which began arriving in June and accelerated through July, will support ongoing work on advanced defense technologies. Kratos said it could not disclose additional information about the specific programs because of security, competitive, and other operational considerations. Kratos specializes in the engineering, development, production, and integration of hypersonic systems, flight vehicles, solid rocket motors, and other high-speed defense technologies. The latest funding is expected to strengthen the company's efforts to deliver affordable, high-performance systems for the U.S. military and allied partners.   Funding Expected to Support Growth According to Eric DeMarco, President and Chief Executive Officer of Kratos, the new funding is expected to improve the company's financial position while supporting future growth. DeMarco said the funding will accelerate Kratos' organic growth rate, increase operating cash receipts, and reduce customer receivables, inventory, and other assets where the company had previously invested its own resources to meet customer schedules and program requirements. He added that Kratos continues to focus on developing affordable and mission-relevant defense technologies while improving margins, generating long-term growth, and strengthening future cash flow. Following the announcement, Kratos shares (Nasdaq: KTOS) moved higher in premarket trading. The company currently has a market capitalization of approximately $8.8 billion.   Focus on Hypersonic Systems Hypersonic weapons and vehicles, which travel at speeds greater than Mach 5, remain one of the highest modernization priorities for the U.S. military because of their ability to reach targets quickly while operating in demanding environments. Kratos said it is currently the only defense company delivering both propulsion systems and hypersonic flyer vehicles, providing capabilities across multiple stages of high-speed system development and testing. The company's active hypersonic and high-speed portfolio includes: Erinyes Hypersonic Flyer Dark Fury systems Zeus solid rocket motor Oriole solid rocket motor These systems support a range of defense applications, including flight testing, propulsion development, ballistic missile targets, and tactical systems.   Company Highlights Manufacturing Capabilities Dave Carter, President of Kratos' Defense and Rocket Support Services Division, said the company has established itself as a leader in high-speed national security systems, including ballistic missile targets, flight test vehicles, and tactical systems. He said Kratos' ability to rapidly design, engineer, develop, test, and field systems that can be produced at lower cost differentiates the company from many traditional defense contractors. Carter also highlighted the company's Nemesis and Kraken initiatives as examples of its ongoing work in advanced high-speed systems. He said Kratos expects to receive additional hypersonic-related contract awards in the coming months.   Work to Continue at Secure Facilities Kratos confirmed that work funded under the new contracts will be carried out at secure company facilities and government locations. The company said it will not release deployment schedules, technical specifications, or additional program details because the projects involve classified national security requirements.   Expanding Role in Advanced Defense Programs The announcement reflects the U.S. military's continued investment in advanced aerospace and hypersonic technologies as part of broader modernization efforts. Alongside hypersonic systems, Kratos continues to develop technologies in unmanned systems, propulsion, flight testing, defense software, and other national security capabilities. Headquartered in San Diego, Kratos Defense & Security Solutions develops technology, systems, software, and products for defense, national security, and commercial markets, with a focus on reducing cost, shortening development timelines, and delivering operational capabilities more quickly. Source : kratosdefense

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-14 14:49:02

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The United States could face shortages of key precision-guided munitions as the ongoing conflict with Iran continues to reduce military stockpiles, according to defense analyst Mark Cancian of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Cancian said the US has likely used between one-third and one-half of its key precision-guided munitions during the conflict, placing significant pressure on existing inventories. Speaking to CNN's Newsroom, Cancian said the United States has used more than 1,000 Patriot interceptor missiles during the conflict. "We have used over a thousand Patriot missiles in this current war. Our allies in the Gulf have also used a lot. Ukraine wants more so there is a tremendous demand for production," Cancian said.   Thousands of Precision Weapons Used According to available estimates, US forces have struck more than 13,000 targets, with the conflict costing an estimated $28 billion to $35 billion so far. The US military has reportedly used: More than 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles, about ten times the annual US procurement rate. Around 1,100 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles-Extended Range (JASSM-ER). Nearly half of its Precision Strike Missiles (PrSMs). About half of its Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) interceptors. More than 1,200 Patriot interceptor missiles.   Patriot Production Remains Limited The Patriot air and missile defense system is one of the US Army's primary air defense systems. A Patriot battery costs more than $1 billion, while each Patriot interceptor missile costs about $4 million. The United States currently produces around 600 Patriot interceptor missiles each year, far below the number reportedly used during the conflict. Cancian said demand remains high as the US, Gulf allies, and Ukraine all require Patriot interceptors. "If you went and ordered another Patriot today, you probably wouldn't get it for four or five years because of the backlog," he said.   Rebuilding Stockpiles Will Take Time Analysts estimate it could take one to four years to restore US precision-guided munition stockpiles to pre-conflict levels, with additional time needed to expand inventories. The Pentagon has signed long-term contracts with defense companies to increase production of precision-guided weapons and missile defense systems. However, production remains constrained by manufacturing capacity, supply chains, and the complexity of advanced missile systems. Defense analysts say the conflict has highlighted the gap between wartime consumption and current production capacity, making stockpile replenishment a key challenge for the US defense industrial base.   Source : cnn

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-14 13:27:36

 U.S 

MELBOURNE, Fla. — L3Harris Technologies has been awarded a $955 million contract by the U.S. Space Force's Space Development Agency (SDA) to build 18 Accelerated Missile Defense Tranche 3 (AMDT3) satellites, supporting the United States' Golden Dome missile defense initiative. The contract, announced on July 13, 2026, is part of the SDA's broader $1.75 billion procurement program to accelerate the deployment of space-based missile tracking capabilities. Alongside the L3Harris award, Sierra Space received a $798 million contract to produce 18 complementary missile warning satellites. Together, the two companies will deliver 36 satellites, which will operate across four orbital planes and are expected to be ready for launch by the end of 2028.   Strengthening Space-Based Missile Tracking The AMDT3 satellites will become part of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PWSA), the SDA's expanding network of low-Earth orbit military satellites designed to provide continuous global missile warning and tracking. L3Harris' satellites will serve as the missile defense variant of the Tracking Layer. Each spacecraft will carry medium-field-of-view infrared sensors capable of detecting and continuously tracking missile threats, including hypersonic and ballistic missiles. The sensors are designed to generate fire-control quality tracking data, allowing information to be passed to ground-based and airborne missile defense systems to support interception operations. According to the Space Development Agency, the accelerated deployment of these satellites is intended to strengthen missile detection, identification, warning, tracking, and defense capabilities for the United States, its deployed forces, and allied nations against increasingly advanced missile threats.   Builds on HBTSS Experience The new contract expands L3Harris' existing work in space-based missile tracking. The company previously developed and launched Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensor (HBTSS) prototypes for the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), successfully demonstrating the performance of its infrared tracking payloads in orbit. The experience gained from the HBTSS program is being applied directly to the AMDT3 satellites, helping reduce development risk while supporting faster deployment of the new tracking constellation.   Production to Begin Immediately L3Harris said manufacturing of the tactical payloads will begin immediately. The satellites will be produced at the company's expanded spacecraft manufacturing facility in Fort Wayne, Indiana, while final satellite integration and testing will be carried out at its facility in Florida. Christopher Kubasik, Chairman and CEO of L3Harris, said the company had expanded its production capacity ahead of anticipated demand to support national missile defense priorities and meet the program's delivery schedule.   Expanding the Tracking Layer The SDA said the new satellites are part of its effort to accelerate deployment of the Tracking Layer, a key element of the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture. The network is designed to provide persistent global coverage by using large numbers of satellites in low-Earth orbit rather than relying on a small number of traditional spacecraft. GP Sandhoo, a Space Force portfolio executive, said the awards accelerate deployment of the Tracking Layer to provide persistent missile warning, detection, identification, tracking, and defense capabilities for the homeland, deployed forces, and allied nations.   More Than 70 Missile Defense Satellites on Order With this latest contract, L3Harris now has more than 70 missile tracking and defense satellites on order across multiple U.S. government programs. The company's portfolio includes satellites for the Missile Defense Agency's HBTSS program and the SDA's Tracking Layer Tranches 0, 1, 2, and 3, with five satellites already operating in orbit. Senator Jim Banks of Indiana welcomed the contract, stating that the continued production work in Indiana will strengthen both the country's industrial base and its next generation of space-based missile tracking capabilities. The AMDT3 program represents another step in the U.S. effort to expand its space-based missile warning and tracking network, providing continuous sensor coverage and supporting missile defense systems against evolving threats, including hypersonic and ballistic missiles.   Source : l3harris

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-14 11:50:20

 U.S 

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Navy has awarded a $2.2 billion contract to Florida-based TOTE Services LLC to manage the construction of its new Medium Landing Ship (LSM) program, marking the first time the Navy has adopted a Vessel Construction Manager (VCM) model for a major shipbuilding program. Announced on July 13, 2026, the contract could reach $2.6 billion if all contract options are exercised for the initial batch of up to eight ships. Under the VCM approach, TOTE Services will serve as the prime contractor and report directly to the Navy's Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Maritime. Rather than the Navy managing individual shipyards and suppliers, TOTE will oversee the construction process, coordinate subcontractors, and manage suppliers across multiple U.S. shipyards using commercial shipbuilding practices. According to the U.S. Navy, the new acquisition model is intended to improve cost control, construction schedules, and overall program performance while reducing government oversight. "We are changing the way we do business, and leveraging commercial best practices to improve cost, schedule, and performance," said Will Mahan, performing the duties of Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition. He added that adopting the commercial contracting model reduced traditional contracting timelines by nearly 50 percent.   Construction to Be Shared Across Multiple Shipyards For the first phase of the program, the U.S. Navy has already designated two shipyards to begin construction. Bollinger Shipyards on the U.S. Gulf Coast will build the lead Medium Landing Ship, while Fincantieri Marinette Marine in Wisconsin will construct the next four vessels. TOTE Services will determine the subcontracting strategy for the remaining three ships included in the initial eight-vessel package. The Navy said distributing construction across multiple shipyards is part of a broader effort to strengthen the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base, which has faced workforce shortages and limited production capacity as the service seeks to expand its fleet. During the procurement process, Crowley Government Services filed a protest, arguing that the Navy's decision to pre-select shipyards reduced the prime contractor's negotiating flexibility and increased commercial risk under the VCM model. The protest was ultimately unsuccessful.   Medium Landing Ship Designed for Marine Corps Operations The Medium Landing Ship (LSM) is based on the Dutch-designed Damen LST-100 hull, a design already in service with the Nigerian Navy and also selected by Australia. Each vessel will measure approximately 300 to 350 feet in length and displace between 4,000 and 6,000 tons. The ships are designed to carry around 250 Marines and have an operational range of approximately 4,000 nautical miles (7,408 kilometers). Unlike large amphibious assault ships, the LSM has a relatively simple design and does not include the advanced defensive systems found on major surface combatants. Instead, it is intended to provide a cost-effective platform for transporting Marines, vehicles, equipment, and supplies between islands and coastal areas. The vessels are expected to fill the operational gap between small landing craft and large amphibious warships.   Supporting the Marine Corps' Pacific Strategy The Medium Landing Ship is a key element of the U.S. Marine Corps' Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations (EABO) concept. Under this strategy, smaller Marine units are expected to move quickly between islands, establish temporary positions equipped with anti-ship missiles and other capabilities, and relocate before becoming vulnerable to enemy targeting. The concept relies on a larger number of smaller, mobile vessels instead of concentrating forces aboard a limited number of large amphibious ships.   Congress Directed Use of the VCM Model The shift to the Vessel Construction Manager (VCM) model was directed by Congress through the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, which required the Navy to adopt the approach in an effort to stabilize the Medium Landing Ship program. The decision followed earlier procurement challenges. In 2024, the Navy canceled a previous request for proposals (RFP) after determining that submitted bids were significantly higher than expected.   TOTE Services Brings Previous Government Shipbuilding Experience TOTE Services previously introduced the Vessel Construction Manager (VCM) model during the National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV) program for the U.S. Maritime Administration. The NSMV program includes five training ships for U.S. maritime academies. Three vessels have already been delivered, while the remaining two are expected within the next 12 months. According to previously released program information, the commercial management approach helped achieve construction costs significantly below initial government estimates. "This is a tremendous responsibility and a defining moment for American shipbuilding, the VCM model, and TOTE Services," said Jeff Dixon, President of TOTE Services. "The U.S. is counting on this program to succeed, and our job is clear: steward the work responsibly, cultivate the best talent and expertise, move with urgency, and deliver for the American people." Matthew Paxton, President of the Shipbuilders Council of America, said TOTE's previous work demonstrated that combining government requirements with commercial shipbuilding practices can strengthen American shipyards and support the maritime workforce.   Construction Expected to Begin This Year Christopher Miller, the Navy's Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Maritime, said the service is ready to move into the construction phase. "TOTE Services will be an important partner, and we're excited to work with them to continue the momentum on this program and begin bending steel," Miller said. Initial construction is expected to begin later in 2026, with the first Medium Landing Ship scheduled for delivery in the fall of 2029. The U.S. Marine Corps ultimately plans to acquire a fleet of 35 Medium Landing Ships. However, future production beyond the initial eight vessels will depend on the successful execution, cost performance, and funding of the first phase. The contract represents a significant change in the U.S. Navy's ship acquisition process by introducing commercial program management practices into a major military shipbuilding effort while supporting expansion of the U.S. shipbuilding industrial base and advancing the U.S. Marine Corps' future operational requirements.   Source : news.usni

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-14 11:25:23

 U.S 

TAMPA, Fla. —The U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) has confirmed that it used Corsair unmanned surface vessels (USVs) in combat for the first time during overnight strikes against Iranian military targets on July 12, marking the first known combat employment of the platform by U.S. forces. According to an official statement released by CENTCOM, U.S. forces launched multiple one-way attack surface drones against a submarine and ship maintenance facility at Bandar Abbas Naval Base on Iran's southern coast. CENTCOM also released video footage of the operation on its official X account.   Yesterday, using multiple one-way attack surface drones, CENTCOM forces successfully struck a submarine and ship maintenance facility in Iran. Three Corsair unmanned surface vessels hit the port at Bandar Abbas Naval Base, marking the first time American forces have employed sea… pic.twitter.com/bOM2kmgRxz — U.S. Central Command (@CENTCOM) July 13, 2026   The command said three Corsair unmanned surface vessels successfully struck the naval facility, marking the first time American forces have employed sea drones in combat operations. CENTCOM stated that the strikes degraded Iran's ability to continue attacking commercial shipping. The attack was carried out using unmanned maritime systems instead of conventional crewed naval platforms, highlighting the expanding operational role of autonomous surface vessels in modern naval warfare.   Corsair Unmanned Surface Vessel The Corsair is an autonomous surface vessel developed by Saronic Technologies for military maritime operations. The platform was officially launched in October 2024 as the company's largest autonomous surface vessel at the time and was designed to support missions for the U.S. Navy and allied forces. The U.S. Navy later awarded Saronic a contract worth more than $392 million to produce multiple Corsair vessels for operational use. Task Force 59, the U.S. Navy's unit responsible for integrating unmanned systems into fleet operations in the Middle East, began fielding the vessels in the region in late March 2026.   Corsair Specifications According to Saronic, the Corsair has the following capabilities: Length: 24 feet (7.3 meters) Maximum speed: More than 35 knots Operational range: More than 1,000 nautical miles Payload capacity: More than 1,000 pounds (about 454 kilograms) The vessel is designed for long-duration autonomous missions and can operate under full autonomous navigation or remote human supervision. It is equipped with onboard computing, satellite communications, radar, cameras, and 360-degree passive sensing systems that support day and night operations.   Previous Operational Use Before the July 12 strike on Iran, the Corsair had already been used in an operational mission. In June 8, 2026, a Corsair unmanned surface vessel operated by U.S. 5th Fleet Task Force 59 rescued two U.S. Army pilots after their AH-64 Apache helicopter crashed off the coast of Oman. According to CENTCOM, the autonomous vessel recovered the pilots from the water and transported them to a location where they were later hoisted aboard a rescue helicopter. The mission was described as the first publicly reported rescue of military personnel by an autonomous surface vessel.   First Combat Use The July 12 operation represents the first confirmed combat use of the Corsair unmanned surface vessel and the first time the U.S. military has employed sea drones in a strike mission. According to CENTCOM, three Corsair USVs struck the submarine and ship maintenance facility at Bandar Abbas Naval Base, damaging infrastructure that supports Iranian naval operations. The command stated that the operation was intended to reduce Iran's ability to conduct future attacks against commercial shipping and released video footage showing the strike. Source : CENTCOM  

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-13 15:28:43

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Army has begun installing Anduril Industries' counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in Washington state, marking the first physical deployment of the company's integrated counter-drone hardware at a U.S. military installation. The move is part of a broader effort to strengthen the protection of military bases against the growing threat posed by small unmanned aerial systems. The project is being managed by Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401), an Army-led organization established by the Department of War in 2025 to unify the military's counter-drone capabilities. Before the creation of JIATF-401, individual military services largely managed their own counter-drone programs, resulting in separate procurement efforts and different combinations of sensors, jammers, and interceptors. The task force now oversees the procurement, testing, integration, and deployment of counter-UAS systems under a common homeland defense strategy. JIATF-401 recently published a handbook titled "Small Drones, Big Problems," which outlines a layered approach to countering unauthorized drones and provides a common operating framework for personnel responsible for defending military installations. Army Maj. Joe Amoroso, Deputy Chief of Strategic Initiatives for JIATF-401, said it is important to establish a common foundation for counter-drone operations while working with government agencies and interagency partners to address the growing threat posed by small unmanned aircraft.   Layered Counter-Drone Defense The initial installation at JBLM includes three key systems developed by Anduril Industries, with each performing a specific role in detecting, tracking, disrupting, and defeating hostile drones. SpyGlass Radar The SpyGlass system is a Ku-band phased array radar designed to detect and track multiple aerial targets simultaneously using electronically steered beams instead of traditional rotating radar antennas. According to Anduril, its onboard processing increases detection range by 25 to 30 percent compared with older radar systems, giving security personnel additional time to identify and respond to potential drone threats. Pulsar Electronic Warfare System The Pulsar system is a software-defined electronic warfare (EW) platform that detects and disrupts the radio-frequency signals used by drones for communication and navigation. The system uses edge artificial intelligence to adapt to newly emerging drone frequencies within hours rather than months. Demonstrations have shown it can effectively counter Group 1 unmanned aircraft at distances of up to 2 kilometers (approximately 1.2 miles). Anvil Interceptor The Anvil system is an autonomous kinetic interceptor designed to physically destroy hostile drones by colliding with them. It is intended to defeat Group 1 and Group 2 unmanned aircraft systems, including most commercial quadcopters and small fixed-wing drones capable of carrying cameras or light payloads. The interceptor is designed for situations where electronic warfare measures alone are not sufficient to stop an incoming drone.   Faster Deployment Through Industry Collaboration The installation at JBLM was carried out through direct cooperation between government personnel and Anduril engineers. Tommy Hernandez III, Anduril's Air Defense Team Lead, and George Nguyen, Tactical Operations Engineer, worked alongside JIATF-401 personnel to install and integrate the systems on-site. This approach is intended to shorten deployment timelines by allowing government and industry teams to work together during installation and system integration, reducing the delays often associated with traditional military acquisition processes.   Why Joint Base Lewis-McChord Was Selected Joint Base Lewis-McChord was selected for the first deployment because of its strategic importance within the U.S. military. Located near Tacoma, Washington, JBLM is the only Army power projection base west of the Rocky Mountains in the continental United States. The installation hosts I Corps and supports the 62nd Airlift Wing, which operates the C-17 Globemaster III strategic airlift fleet. The base plays an important role in moving troops, equipment, and supplies to the Indo-Pacific region during military operations and contingency missions. Its operational importance makes it a priority location for strengthening protection against unauthorized drone activity.   Part of a Broader National Counter-Drone Strategy The deployment at JBLM is one element of a wider counter-drone strategy being implemented by JIATF-401 across the United States. In addition to installing standardized counter-UAS systems, the task force is managing a pilot program that is evaluating laser and microwave-based counter-drone technologies at five other military sites. The broader modernization effort also includes a 10-year, $642 million contract awarded to Anduril Industries to deploy counter-UAS systems across U.S. Marine Corps bases. The objective is to create a more standardized and coordinated approach to protecting military installations from increasingly capable and affordable unmanned aircraft.   Growing Concern Over Small Drone Threats The widespread availability of inexpensive commercial drones has significantly changed the security environment for military installations. Small unmanned aircraft have been used extensively in recent conflicts, including those in Ukraine and the Middle East, for reconnaissance, surveillance, and attack missions, highlighting the operational impact of low-cost drone technology. Within the United States, military officials have also reported a growing number of unauthorized drone incursions near military facilities over the past decade. These incidents have increased the focus on deploying systems capable of detecting, tracking, disrupting, and, when necessary, physically intercepting drones before they can reach sensitive infrastructure. Army Brig. Gen. Matt Ross, Director of JIATF-401, said that while there is no single solution capable of addressing every drone threat, a proactive and layered defense built in cooperation with government partners can significantly reduce the risks posed by small unmanned aircraft.   Source : dvidshub / defence-blog

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-13 15:09:52

 U.S 

WASHINGTON — The U.S. Senate Armed Services Committee has advanced a proposal to provide $40 million for the U.S. Marine Corps to integrate and test General Atomics' Bullseye cruise missile as part of the Fiscal Year 2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). The proposed funding is allocated for the Marine Corps' technology demonstration and prototyping efforts. The initiative is intended to evaluate the missile's operational capabilities while supporting the Pentagon's broader effort to field affordable, mass-produced long-range precision weapons for future military operations, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. The proposal must still pass the remaining stages of the congressional legislative process before becoming law. If approved in the final NDAA, the funding would enable the Marine Corps to conduct integration and demonstration activities to determine how the Bullseye missile could support future operational requirements.   Bullseye Cruise Missile Designed for Long-Range Precision Strike The Bullseye cruise missile was publicly introduced by General Atomics during the Sea Air Space 2025 exhibition. The missile is derived from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems' Ice Breaker cruise missile and is planned for domestic production at General Atomics' manufacturing facility in Tupelo, Mississippi. The company says domestic production will strengthen U.S. supply chains while supporting faster manufacturing and sustained production capacity for future defense requirements. Bullseye weighs less than 1,000 pounds, measures approximately 13 feet (4 meters) in length, and is designed to engage both ground and maritime targets at ranges exceeding 300 kilometers (186 miles). The missile follows a high-subsonic, sea-skimming, and terrain-following flight profile to improve survivability in contested environments. It is equipped with an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker and is designed to continue operating in GPS-denied environments using terrain contour matching and scene-matching navigation. It also includes a man-in-the-loop capability that allows operators to abort or retarget a mission after launch when required.   Focused on Marine Corps Operations in the Indo-Pacific The proposed funding aligns with the Marine Corps' effort to strengthen the capabilities of its Marine Littoral Regiments, which are designed to operate in contested maritime environments across the Western Pacific. The 12th Marine Littoral Regiment, based in Japan, has already begun fielding the Navy-Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS) equipped with the Naval Strike Missile. Meanwhile, the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, based in the Philippines, has demonstrated similar long-range strike capabilities during military exercises. According to General Atomics, Bullseye is intended to provide an additional long-range precision strike option for these forward-deployed forces, supporting operations in areas where anti-access and area denial (A2/AD) systems present operational challenges. Company promotional material has also highlighted the missile's potential role in addressing current and future security challenges in the South China Sea, including scenarios involving People's Liberation Army facilities on artificial islands.   Multiple Launch Options One of the key features of the Bullseye program is its ability to operate from a variety of launch platforms, providing flexibility across different military services. The missile is designed for: Air launch from fighter aircraft, including the F/A-18 Hornet. Ground launch, with integration work currently underway for the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) and the M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System (MLRS). Sea launch through a containerized system known as "Bullseye in a Box," which carries four missiles inside a standard shipping container. Earlier this year, General Atomics also presented concepts for deploying these containerized launch systems aboard amphibious assault ships. The approach supports ongoing U.S. Navy efforts to increase fleet firepower through modular, containerized weapon systems, providing additional flexibility for future naval operations.   Supporting Pentagon Efforts to Expand Precision Weapon Stocks The Bullseye program is part of the Pentagon's broader effort to increase inventories of cost-effective, mass-producible precision-guided weapons while strengthening domestic manufacturing capacity. General Atomics has emphasized that the missile is designed for scalable production within the United States, supporting government efforts to improve supply chain resilience and maintain adequate inventories of long-range strike weapons. If the proposed funding is approved by Congress, the Marine Corps will begin integration and demonstration activities to assess Bullseye's suitability for future operations, particularly in support of expeditionary forces operating across the Indo-Pacific region.     Source : navalnews

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-13 14:36:38

 U.S 

WOODINVILLE, Wash. — Echodyne has officially opened a new $40 million advanced radar manufacturing facility in Woodinville, Washington, significantly expanding its production capacity to meet increasing demand for counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS), short-range air defense, and other radar applications from the United States and allied customers. The new 86,350-square-foot facility will serve as Echodyne's dedicated manufacturing and operations hub, enabling end-to-end radar production. Once operating at full capacity, the site will be capable of producing more than 2,500 radars per month, equivalent to over 30,000 radar systems annually. The company said it will gradually transfer all manufacturing operations from its current headquarters in Kirkland to the new Woodinville facility over the coming months.   Facility Designed for High-Volume Production The new manufacturing site includes approximately 74,350 square feet dedicated to production and 12,000 square feet for warehousing. According to the company, the layout is designed to support flexible manufacturing across multiple radar models while allowing future expansion for additional product lines. The investment is expected to create more than 100 new jobs initially, with the workforce potentially growing to around 200 positions as production increases. Echodyne currently employs about 260 people across the company. The facility is intended to strengthen domestic manufacturing capacity while supporting long-term production requirements from military, security, and commercial customers.   Rising Demand for Counter-Drone Radar Demand for advanced radar systems has increased as drones are being used more widely in both military and civilian applications. Echodyne said its radar systems are seeing growing interest for missions including: Counter-UAS (C-UAS) Short-range air defense Force protection Border security Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) Critical infrastructure protection Beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) operations for autonomous systems Recent conflicts, including the war in Ukraine, have demonstrated how low-cost drones can affect military operations, increasing the need for reliable sensors capable of detecting and tracking small aerial threats. At the same time, commercial drone operations such as infrastructure inspection, emergency response, and future delivery services are driving additional demand for airspace monitoring technologies.   CEO Highlights Need for Scalable Manufacturing Commenting on the new facility, Eben Frankenberg, Chief Executive Officer of Echodyne, said growing global demand requires not only high-performance radar systems but also the ability to manufacture them in large numbers. "Our global customer base is demanding more radar to be delivered as fast as possible. Drones are driving significant change in both enabling a drone economy and in defending against nefarious drone use. While radar performance will always be the dominant consideration, product availability both now and in a predictable and consistent manner over time is quickly becoming a requirement for any global supplier. The only way to defend against mass is with mass. That requires not just high-performance economical radars, but the ability to manufacture them at scale."   MESA Radar Technology Echodyne's radar systems are based on its patented Metamaterials Electronically Scanned Array (MESA®) technology. Unlike conventional electronically scanned array radars that rely on thousands of phase shifters, the MESA architecture uses a simplified approach to electronically steer radar beams. The design allows the company to manufacture radar systems using standard materials and commercial production processes. According to Echodyne, this approach results in radar systems that are: Smaller and lighter Lower in power consumption Less expensive to manufacture Easier to export Capable of maintaining high radar performance The company said its manufacturing process follows the same principles of simplicity and scalability, using modular production methods that allow output to be adjusted according to customer requirements while maintaining consistent product quality.   Expanding Role in Defense Programs Echodyne's radar technology is already integrated into systems developed by several major defense companies, including Anduril, Axon, Moog, and Northrop Grumman. The company was also recently selected as the primary radar supplier for Trust Automation's Small UAS Detection System (SUADS). The system is being delivered under a $490 million indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract awarded by the U.S. Air Force. Founded in 2014 after being spun out from Intellectual Ventures, Echodyne has focused on developing compact electronically scanned radar systems for defense, security, and commercial markets.   Strengthening U.S. Radar Manufacturing With the opening of its new Woodinville manufacturing hub, Echodyne is increasing domestic production capacity for advanced radar systems while preparing to meet growing demand from military, security, and commercial operators. The company expects to continue expanding its workforce and manufacturing output as production ramps up and customer requirements increase. Source : echodyne

Read More → Posted on 2026-07-13 13:09:50