India
JODHPUR, — Indian Air Force (IAF) Chief Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh has confirmed that India has received no official US offer to purchase the F-35 fifth-generation stealth fighter. He also said that Russia’s proposal for the Su-57 fighter awaits a government decision on whether the aircraft should be evaluated. Singh made the remarks during a press conference at the conclusion of Exercise Tarang Shakti-2026 in Jodhpur, alongside US Pacific Air Forces commander General Kevin Schneider. Six US Air Force F-35A fighters participated in the exercise, marking their first appearance in a military exercise on Indian soil. However, the aircraft were operated and maintained by US personnel in a separate, secure section of the airbase, with Indian personnel denied close access. Responding to questions about a possible F-35 purchase, Singh said, “We didn’t get any official offer.” He also remarked, “Your people don’t even let us go near the aircraft, and you are talking about selling it to us.” Regarding Russia’s Su-57, Singh confirmed that the IAF was aware of Moscow’s proposal but had not formally evaluated the aircraft. “Once the decision is conveyed to us by the government, we will evaluate how well it meets our requirements,” he said. The discussions come as India continues developing its indigenous fifth-generation fighter under the Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA) programme. No procurement decision or timeline has been announced for either foreign fighter.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 16:07:38
U.S
FORT IRWIN, California, — The U.S. Army’s efforts to integrate artificial intelligence (AI), drones and advanced command systems into future warfare faced technical challenges during Project Convergence Capstone 6, held from July 20 to 29, 2026, at the National Training Center in California’s Mojave Desert. Nearly 9,700 U.S. and allied soldiers from the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada and New Zealand participated in the exercise, which tested more than 90 technologies, including drones, autonomous systems, electronic warfare tools and the Army’s Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) network. The exercise involved the U.S. 4th Infantry Division and force-on-force scenarios across challenging desert terrain. Extreme Heat and Equipment Failures Temperatures reached around 110 degrees Fahrenheit (43 degrees Celsius), with some reports indicating higher readings. Servers and other electronic equipment overheated, while lithium-ion batteries in drones and robotic systems failed or could not be recharged reliably. Some experimental drones struggled to remain airborne because of overheating and power limitations. Systems from companies including Anduril Industries also experienced signal losses behind terrain features, while wind affected flight stability. Some drones lacked full AI or autonomous flight capabilities and required manual control, forcing soldiers to carry spare batteries and replacement parts. Communications equipment also experienced connectivity problems. Some antennas required improvised cooling using ice-water-soaked T-shirts, while electronic warfare effects and network disruptions sometimes limited access to digital maps. The NGC2 network and associated tools placed additional demands on power supplies needed to operate sensors, share data and support AI-assisted planning. NGC2 Demonstrates Progress Despite Setbacks Despite these problems, the exercise showed progress in software-driven command operations. NGC2 combined information from multiple sources, including friendly-force positions and sensor feeds, into a shared operational picture for commanders. In some scenarios, the system supported faster coordination during simulated urban assaults and improved information sharing between U.S. and allied units. Lt. Gen. Michael McCurry, head of Army Futures and Concepts Command, directed the exercise. Maj. Gen. Patrick Ellis, commander of the 4th Infantry Division, described NGC2 as “ready but not done,” indicating that the system was ready for operational use in its current form but still required further development. Gen. Christopher LaNeve, the Army’s vice chief of staff, emphasized that the technology was intended to support commanders’ decisions, not replace their role, particularly when units operate across dispersed locations and remain on the move. Lessons for Future Modernization Project Convergence Capstone 6 is part of the Army’s continuing effort to test emerging technologies before wider deployment. The results will help refine requirements and guide improvements in battery reliability, heat management, communications and network performance. The exercise highlighted the gap between the potential of AI-enabled warfare and the practical challenges of operating advanced equipment in demanding environments. Although software-assisted planning and data sharing showed promise, unreliable hardware, power limitations and communications failures remain obstacles. The Army will use the findings to improve its systems and push defence contractors to deliver more durable, field-ready equipment. The results underline that successful AI-enabled warfare depends not only on advanced software but also on reliable drones, computing hardware, power supplies and communications networks.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 16:01:42
U.S
SAN DIEGO, — Newly published photographs of the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Abraham Lincoln show markings representing targets destroyed during its 321-day Middle East deployment, including approximately 103 one-way attack drones, 34 surface vessels and 10 submarines. These figures differ from those announced by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, and the U.S. Navy has not publicly explained the discrepancies. On October 7, Hegseth stated that the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group shot down 77 one-way attack drones, sank 64 Iranian warships and destroyed 21 anti-ship cruise missiles. He also reported 3,693 combat sorties, 450 Tomahawk land-attack cruise missiles launched from escort ships, 1.37 million pounds of ordnance delivered and defensive actions against four fast-attack craft and explosive-carrying vessels, as detailed in our previous report. The markings on the carrier’s superstructure include symbols for drones, surface vessels and submarines. Some reports have also identified markings for anti-ship missiles and other targets. The reasons for the differences between the painted markings and the officially announced figures remain unclear. Carrier Air Wing 9 Reports 14,037 Sorties The U.S. Navy reported that Carrier Air Wing 9 (CVW-9) completed 14,037 sorties and 31,460 forward-deployed flight hours during the deployment. During the 38-day Operation Epic Fury campaign, the air wing expended 1,499 precision-guided munitions and delivered more than 1.37 million pounds of ordnance against missile sites, production facilities, military infrastructure and naval combatants. CVW-9 comprises nine squadrons: three F/A-18E/F Super Hornet squadrons (VFA-14, VFA-41 and VFA-151); Marine Fighter Attack Squadron VMFA-314, operating the F-35C Lightning II; Electronic Attack Squadron VAQ-133, equipped with the EA-18G Growler; Airborne Command and Control Squadron VAW-117, operating the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye; helicopter squadrons HSM-71 and HSC-14; and logistics squadron VRM-30. Individual aircraft also display operational markings. An F/A-18F Super Hornet assigned to VFA-41 carries a submarine kill symbol, and the squadron reportedly expended 421 missiles and bombs during the operations. An F-35C assigned to VMFA-314 displays markings representing a tanker, submarines, a surface combatant, a drone and ground-based systems. USS Abraham Lincoln Completes 321-Day Deployment The USS Abraham Lincoln departed San Diego on November 21, 2025, and returned to Naval Air Station North Island on October 8, 2026. After reaching the U.S. Central Command area in late January, the carrier strike group participated in Operation Epic Fury, supporting major combat operations before an early April ceasefire. It later took part in maritime blockades of Iranian shipping. The deployment included more than 260 consecutive days at sea without a port call. The strike group’s escort ships included the guided-missile destroyers USS Frank E. Petersen Jr., USS Spruance and USS Michael Murphy. During a ceremony on October 7, Hegseth presented the Presidential Unit Citation to the strike group. The Navy has not publicly reconciled the differences between the carrier’s displayed target markings and the officially announced operational figures.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 15:53:55
Europe
BRUSSELS, — NATO and European Union officials are pressing Greece and Spain to transfer their stocks of Patriot PAC-2 interceptor missiles to Ukraine, according to a report published by The Telegraph on October 9. Both countries possess significant stocks of the missiles, some of which are approaching the end of their 23-year certified service life. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said Kyiv needs between 300 and 360 additional Patriot interceptors to counter Russian ballistic missile attacks and protect energy infrastructure, power plants and urban centres ahead of winter. He also stated that Ukraine received three times fewer interceptor missiles from its partners in 2026 than in 2025. Greece Holds at Least 200 Missiles Greece is estimated to possess at least 200 Patriot PAC-2 missiles delivered to the Hellenic Air Force under a 1999 contract, with deliveries beginning around 2002. The country operates six Patriot batteries but has previously declined requests to transfer complete systems or larger quantities of missiles, citing its own defence requirements and regional security concerns. Earlier reports indicated that Ukraine had requested up to 200 missiles from Greek stocks. One option discussed involved selling them to an ally, such as Norway, for onward delivery to Ukraine. Athens has not publicly agreed to a further transfer. Spain's exact stockpile remains undisclosed. In September, Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares announced plans to supply Ukraine with five additional Patriot interceptors. Spain has also reported supplying more than 70 anti-aircraft missiles of various types since February. Madrid operates Patriot systems and has signed a $1.7 billion contract with Raytheon for four new batteries, due later in the decade. Expiring Does Not Mean Unusable The missiles' approaching expiration dates do not necessarily mean they are defective. Fabian Hoffmann, a missile expert at the University of Oslo, has explained that the end of a certified service life means the manufacturer's original performance guarantee expires. The missiles may remain usable after inspections and recertification, which can involve replacing components such as batteries and rocket motors. Transferring eligible missiles before recertification could help Ukraine while avoiding some associated costs and logistical requirements. However, their individual condition must be assessed. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas raised the issue during informal talks in Ireland last month, saying that European countries with interceptors nearing expiration should consider giving them to Ukraine. A diplomatic source cited by The Telegraph said officials were discussing how allies could help Greece and Spain reach a decision. The negotiations have largely remained private to limit diplomatic friction. Global Supply Shortages Add Pressure Patriot interceptor supplies remain under pressure because of demand from Ukraine and other military operations. The supplied reports estimate that the United States and its allies fired at least 800 Patriot interceptors during the opening days of the ongoing US-Iran conflict in the Middle East. Ukraine already operates Patriot air defence systems compatible with PAC-2 interceptors, making additional serviceable missiles an important potential source of ammunition. NATO and EU officials are also exploring stock transfers, priority production arrangements and financing options to increase deliveries. As of October 10, 2026, neither Greece nor Spain had publicly confirmed a new transfer of the aging PAC-2 missiles in response to the latest reported requests.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 15:31:32
World
MOSCOW, — Russia’s state-owned arms exporter Rosoboronexport has reported an order portfolio exceeding $65 billion, covering more than 800 active contracts with foreign customers for military products. CEO Alexander Mikheev announced the figures on Friday, October 9, during a meeting with Vladimir Gutenev, First Deputy Chairman of the Russian Engineering Union. Rosoboronexport operates under the Rostec State Corporation and serves as Russia’s sole state intermediary for defence and dual-use exports. 20 Ongoing Cooperation Projects Mikheev said the company is currently carrying out approximately 20 technological cooperation projects and discussing more than 100 additional ventures with customers from countries Russia describes as friendly. The announcement did not provide a country-by-country breakdown, individual contract values or details of the projects. 280 Defence Enterprises Supporting Exports According to Mikheev, 280 Russian defence enterprises are directly contracted to fulfil the export orders. Including subcontractors and suppliers, the wider industrial network involves tens of thousands of entities across Russia. He highlighted manufacturers in the Yaroslavl and Saratov regions, which supply engines, naval equipment, communications systems, avionics, space systems and electronic components for Russian defence platforms. Mikheev described the exported products as technologically advanced and competitive internationally. Gutenev said fulfilling military, dual-use and civilian export contracts supports Russia’s manufacturing sector and technological sovereignty. Order Portfolio and Export Targets The $65 billion figure represents the current order portfolio, not revenue already received or equipment already delivered. The announcement did not specify delivery schedules, contract fulfilment rates or how much of the total comes from newly signed agreements. Earlier in 2026, Mikheev reported an order portfolio exceeding $60 billion. Separately, defence-sector reporting indicated that Russia concluded new weapons and military equipment export contracts worth more than $13 billion in the first half of 2026. The export activity also comes amid Russia’s broader effort to diversify defence industry production. The government has set a target of increasing the civilian share of defence industry output to 50% by 2030, with civilian and dual-use contracts contributing to this objective.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 15:22:38
World
US President Donald Trump announced on Friday that the United States had reached an agreement with Russian President Vladimir Putin to bring more than 4.8 million metric tonnes of Russian diesel to US and global markets. The deal follows a phone conversation between the two leaders and comes as Washington seeks to lower fuel prices ahead of the November 3 midterm elections. In a post on Truth Social, Trump described the conversation as “highly successful” and outlined the planned deliveries. Russia will initially supply more than 300,000 metric tonnes of diesel, followed by 500,000 tonnes in November, another 1 million tonnes shortly afterward and a further 3 million tonnes when Russian refinery conditions permit. The total is equivalent to approximately 36 million barrels. Trump said the additional supply, combined with what he called US “total control” over the Strait of Hormuz, would help reduce global diesel prices. He identified lower fuel costs for American farmers, ranchers and truckers as a priority. US diesel prices reached approximately $6.28 per gallon around the time of the announcement, according to AAA data, amid energy market disruptions linked to the conflict involving Iran. Temporary Sanctions Exemption The US Treasury Department issued a temporary general license authorizing the sale, delivery, offloading and importation of Russian-origin diesel until April 7, 2027. The license provides a limited exemption from existing sanctions for covered transactions. The agreement marks a shift from Washington's previous efforts to restrict Russian energy revenues following Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine. The United States had imposed sanctions on Russian energy interests and pressured other countries to reduce purchases of Russian oil. Russia has faced additional pressure from Ukrainian strikes on its refining capacity and had introduced temporary diesel export restrictions earlier in 2026. Russian officials have indicated readiness to supply oil and petroleum products to international markets, while Putin's envoy Kirill Dmitriev welcomed energy cooperation. The exact payment arrangements and delivery logistics have not been fully confirmed by the White House. Impact on Global Energy Markets and India The deal comes as the conflict involving Iran has disrupted energy markets and affected flows through the Strait of Hormuz, a major route for international energy shipments. Diesel shortages and higher prices have increased costs for freight operators, agricultural businesses and other fuel-dependent industries. The initial shipment of around 300,000 tonnes is relatively small compared with overall US distillate demand and exports. The broader impact will depend on whether the subsequent deliveries arrive as planned and how global supply conditions develop. The agreement also draws attention to Washington's earlier pressure on India to reduce Russian oil purchases. India became a major buyer of discounted Russian crude after Western countries restricted their own imports, with Russian oil exceeding 40 percent of India's crude imports during some periods. The Trump administration imposed additional tariffs on Indian goods in 2025, partly citing India's Russian oil purchases. In early 2026, Trump announced a trade understanding under which he said India had agreed to stop or sharply reduce those imports, alongside adjustments to certain additional tariffs. Later in 2026, Congress passed, and Trump signed, the Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act, authorizing potential tariffs of up to 100 percent on major buyers of Russian oil and gas, including India and China. India has maintained that its energy purchases are guided by affordability, domestic demand and energy security. The new US arrangement highlights how Washington is adjusting its approach to Russian energy amid domestic price pressures, even as broader sanctions remain in place. Ukraine Criticizes the Deal Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized the agreement, describing it as a gift to Putin and arguing that the revenue could help Russia prolong the war rather than end it. The phone conversation also covered the Ukraine conflict and bilateral matters, according to Putin's statement. The diesel arrangement comes amid continued diplomatic contacts between Washington and Moscow. The actual delivery volumes, shipment schedule and market response will determine whether the agreement can significantly reduce diesel prices. While the temporary license runs until April 7, 2027, it does not guarantee that supplies will continue at the announced scale throughout that period.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 15:07:17
Europe
Europe — European Union countries paid an estimated €7.88 billion for liquefied natural gas (LNG) from Russia’s Yamal project between January and September 2026, even as the bloc prepares to end Russian gas imports under its phase-out policy. The figures come from an analysis by German environmental organisation Urgewald, based on shipping data from Kpler. European ports received a record 12.18 million tonnes of Yamal LNG across 167 cargoes during the first nine months of the year, a 9.5% increase compared with the same period in 2025. The EU accounted for 85% of the project's recorded worldwide deliveries, despite a 1.3% decline in the project's overall global shipments. The figures highlight a gap between Europe's commitment to reduce its dependence on Russian energy and its continued purchases of Russian gas. France leads EU purchases in September France was the largest destination for Russian LNG delivered to the EU in September, receiving nearly three-quarters of the month's shipments. The ports of Dunkirk and Montoir together handled 571,716 tonnes. The Netherlands received 146,461 tonnes, while Portugal imported 74,263 tonnes. No Yamal LNG cargoes were recorded at Spanish ports or Belgium's Zeebrugge terminal during the month. Estimated payments totalled €2.88 billion in the first quarter, €3.08 billion in the second quarter and €1.92 billion in the third quarter. Third-quarter deliveries amounted to 2.21 million tonnes, down 13.6% compared with the same period in 2025. For September, Urgewald estimated the value of deliveries at approximately €818 million, slightly above the figure for September 2025. The payment estimates were calculated using delivered tonnage, an energy conversion factor of 13.7 megawatt-hours per tonne and the relevant monthly European TTF benchmark gas price. They represent indicative gross values rather than verified net revenue received by Russian companies, as they do not account for contract discounts, transport costs, regasification fees, taxes or subsequent resales. What do EU restrictions mean for Russian LNG? The EU has adopted a phased prohibition on Russian natural gas imports, including LNG. Under the rules, restrictions on imports under qualifying existing short-term LNG contracts took effect on 25 April 2026, while the prohibition on imports under qualifying existing long-term LNG contracts is scheduled to apply from 1 January 2027. The continued deliveries therefore need to be understood in the context of the transition arrangements and the contracts governing the trade. The import figures alone do not establish that every cargo violated EU sanctions. Urgewald sanctions campaigner Sebastian Rötters said the limited effect of the short-term contract restrictions was expected because much of Yamal's export capacity remains tied to long-term contracts. Seasonal maintenance and changes in shipping routes also affect delivery volumes. Yamal LNG is located in Russia's Arctic region and relies on specialised Arc7 ice-class tankers to transport gas through Arctic waters. Europe remains a major nearby market for these shipments. Does Europe indirectly help Russia finance the war? Yes, continued purchases provide Russia with an economic benefit and can indirectly support its ability to finance the war against Ukraine. However, the LNG figures alone cannot establish how much of this money was ultimately spent on military operations. There are three important points: Revenue from energy exports: Russian LNG producers earn money from selling gas. These earnings support companies, workers, suppliers and the wider Russian economy, while taxes and other payments can contribute to government revenue. Continued access to a major market: With the EU accounting for 85% of Yamal LNG's recorded deliveries, European demand remains commercially important to the project. The effect on sanctions: Continued purchases weaken the immediate economic pressure that a complete energy cutoff would create. However, they do not mean that all EU sanctions against Russia have been abandoned. The distinction is important: buying Russian gas does not mean European governments are deliberately funding Russia's military campaign. It does mean that their energy purchases can sustain economic activity that benefits Russia while the war continues. What about sanctions against Russia? The EU has imposed extensive sanctions on Russia, including restrictions on energy imports, financial activities and entities connected with the Russian economy. But sanctions are not the same as a complete embargo on every Russian product. 25 April 2026 — Short-term LNG contracts The EU's prohibition on Russian LNG imports under qualifying existing short-term contracts took effect, subject to the regulation's conditions and exceptions. 1 January 2027 — Long-term LNG contracts The EU's prohibition on imports under qualifying existing long-term LNG contracts is scheduled to take effect. United States — Additional sanctions authority The Lindsey O. Graham Sanctioning Russia and Iran Act of 2026 became US Public Law 119-111 on 18 September 2026. Its enactment does not mean every Russian LNG vessel has automatically been sanctioned; the effects depend on the law's provisions and subsequent implementation. Why does Europe continue buying Russian gas? The main issue is the balance between energy security and economic pressure on Russia. European buyers must maintain gas supplies while existing contracts are phased out and alternative suppliers are used. That helps explain the transition period, but it does not remove the contradiction: Europe is seeking to reduce Russian energy dependence while continuing to pay substantial sums for Russian LNG. The bottom line: Europe is imposing sanctions on Russia while some European companies and countries continue to purchase Russian energy under arrangements permitted during the phase-out period. Those purchases provide economic support to Russia and may indirectly strengthen its capacity to sustain the war. The €7.88 billion figure is an estimate of the value of the gas delivered, not a calculation of Russian military funding.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 14:34:00
Europe
BERLIN, — Germany is advancing plans to acquire low-cost, long-range cruise missiles for large-scale army deployment, with initial deliveries potentially beginning in 2027. Lieutenant General Christian Freuding, Inspector of the German Army, outlined the plan at a parliamentary evening hosted by the Army Supporters’ Association (Förderkreis Deutsches Heer) in Berlin on Thursday, October 8, according to the German news agency DPA. The missiles are intended to strike targets approximately 1,500 kilometres inside enemy territory and overwhelm air defence networks through large-scale deployment. Freuding said these weapons would complement more expensive conventional cruise missiles reserved for strategically important targets. The German government also intends to purchase higher-value cruise missile systems from the United States for army use. Two Systems Under Evaluation The Bundeswehr is evaluating two commercially available missile systems, although Freuding did not identify them. Both must complete qualification and certification before entering service. He said initial deliveries from 2027 were possible and that the army aimed to meet this timeline. One potential candidate is Anthem, developed by US defence technology company Covenant. However, Germany has not publicly confirmed an order for the missile. Covenant Opens Production Facility in Leipzig Covenant opened a 10,000-square-metre production facility in Leipzig, eastern Germany, earlier this week to manufacture cruise missiles for European NATO allies. Anthem production is scheduled to begin in 2027, with a target of 1,000 missiles in the first year and 5,000 annually by 2028. Anthem is designed for a range of up to 1,500 kilometres and a reported payload capacity of 200 to 300 kilograms. The company plans to price it below $1 million per unit, a six-figure sum in US dollars, compared with several million dollars for many conventional cruise missiles. The missile is designed for precision strikes, and the Leipzig facility will handle assembly, with warheads integrated later at customer locations. Covenant has indicated interest from European customers and held discussions related to the Bundeswehr, but no specific German purchase has been publicly confirmed. The company also aims to source less than 5 per cent of components from outside Europe for missiles built in Leipzig, establishing a largely European supply chain and reducing exposure to potential international trade restrictions. Other Candidates and Germany’s Long-Range Strike Plans German Defence Ministry planning documents reported in mid-2026 identified Anthem alongside Ukrainian-linked systems, including the Flamingo, developed by Fire Point, and BARS, as potential candidates for evaluation and possible mass production. No final selection has been publicly announced. The proposed procurement would expand the German Army’s long-range strike capabilities by combining relatively inexpensive missiles for large-scale deployment with higher-value weapons for strategic targets. The next steps are qualification, certification and selection, with initial deliveries targeted for 2027 if the process proceeds as planned.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 14:25:43
World
WASHINGTON, D.C., — Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has unveiled the POP 1000, a compact electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) sensor payload designed for long-range intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. The 12-inch system is designed for integration on airborne, maritime and land platforms, particularly those with strict size, weight and power (SWaP) limitations. IAI is presenting the system for the first time at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) 2026 Annual Meeting & Exposition in Washington, D.C., at Hall C, booth 3525. The event runs from October 12–14. According to the company, the POP 1000 is marketed as an ITAR-free solution intended to simplify export processes for international customers. Multi-Sensor Imaging and Targeting Capabilities The POP 1000 combines high-definition visible-light cameras with medium-wave infrared (MWIR) and short-wave infrared (SWIR) sensors to support daytime, nighttime and limited-visibility operations. It also includes an eye-safe laser rangefinder and a laser designator for target ranging and designation. The system features four-axis stabilization, automatic video tracking and advanced image processing to maintain a stable line of sight on moving platforms and track targets in dynamic environments. AI-based capabilities assist mission execution, while an integrated inertial navigation system (INS) provides geo-referencing. A picture-in-picture display function helps operators maintain situational awareness. These capabilities are designed to support target detection, identification, tracking and designation across different operational conditions. IAI has not specified numerical detection ranges in the provided announcement. Builds on IAI's Established POP Family The POP 1000 joins IAI's Plug-in Optronic Payload (POP) family, developed by its TAMAM Division. The series includes POP200, POP300 and MiniPOP configurations used for day-and-night observation, surveillance, laser ranging and targeting on aircraft, helicopters, unmanned systems, vehicles and naval platforms. IAI says thousands of POP systems have been deployed worldwide and that the family serves dozens of military customers. The POP 1000 builds on this operational experience with a more compact configuration designed to meet the integration requirements of modern military platforms. Guy Bar Lev, President and CEO of IAI, said: “The POP 1000 represents the continued evolution of IAI’s electro-optical capabilities, bringing advanced sensing and mission capabilities into a compact system that provides customers with greater operational flexibility. Building on the experience of more than thousands of POP systems deployed worldwide, we continue to adapt proven technologies to meet changing operational needs.” With its combination of visible and infrared imaging, laser-based targeting, stabilization and automated tracking, the POP 1000 expands IAI's compact surveillance offerings for military operations across air, land and maritime domains.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 14:17:50
World
ST. PETERSBURG, — Russian defence company DOFA-Tech has presented its new DF-3 Gadyuka (Viper) jet-powered interceptor drone at Drone Congress 2026 in St. Petersburg, held from October 7 to 9. The system is designed to intercept groups of incoming unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and return to base for reuse. According to DOFA-Tech general director Marat Drofa, the Gadyuka is designed to engage 15 to 20 UAVs during a single sortie. Unlike disposable interceptors that destroy targets by ramming them, the DF-3 is intended to use onboard automatic weapons to engage incoming drones. Speed, Range and Performance Company-provided information lists the Gadyuka's maximum speed at 850 km/h, cruising speed at approximately 650 km/h, flight range at up to 800 kilometres, endurance of up to 60 minutes and take-off weight of approximately 240 kilograms. The drone differs from Russia's Yolka interceptor, which reaches approximately 200 km/h and destroys targets through direct impact. The Gadyuka's proposed combination of higher speed, onboard weapons and reusability is intended to support defence against large-scale drone attacks. DOFA-Tech technical director Vitaly Dobrovolsky explained that after engaging targets, the Gadyuka would return to its base airfield, refuel, replenish its ammunition and prepare for another sortie. This operating cycle is intended to allow repeated missions without losing the aircraft after each engagement. Development Status and Other Projects The DF-3 Gadyuka remains at the technical development stage, and its reported performance figures represent projected capabilities rather than confirmed operational results. DOFA-Tech is also developing the DF-1 Roscherk, a disposable jet-powered interceptor weighing approximately 15 kilograms and designed to reach 500 km/h. It has entered factory testing and is at a more advanced development stage than the Gadyuka. The company's other project, the DF-5 Iskra, is a long-range strike drone concept designed for a projected range of up to 1,200 kilometres. Both the Gadyuka and Iskra remain in early development. The Gadyuka represents DOFA-Tech's effort to develop reusable, high-speed interceptors capable of engaging multiple drones in one mission, potentially reducing reliance on disposable systems when countering coordinated UAV attacks. Its operational effectiveness will need to be established through further development and testing.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 14:06:07
Europe
GRAFENWOEHR, Germany, — U.S. Army AH-64 Apache helicopter crews destroyed three unmanned aircraft using targeting data from ground-based radar during Operation Skyfall II at the Grafenwoehr Training Area in Germany on October 6. The exercise tested how air defense units and aviation crews can work together to detect, track and engage drones. Soldiers from the 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, part of the 52nd Air Defense Artillery Brigade, operated the AN/MPQ-64 Sentinel radar to track Outlaw drones, low-cost unmanned aircraft used as training targets. The tracking data was sent to a tactical operations center, which provided target location information and vectors to the Apache crews. The helicopters then conducted air-to-air engagements and destroyed all three drones individually. One Apache crew, flown by Chief Warrant Officer 4 Jarrad Walter, with Chief Warrant Officer 4 Cody Schoonover serving as gunner, engaged the targets using the helicopter’s 30 mm cannon in short bursts. The aviation operations involved the 2nd Battalion, 159th Aviation Regiment, assigned to the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade. The Sentinel radar provides continuous low-altitude alerts and tracking information, helping helicopter crews receive earlier warnings and locate potential threats. “We’re sending the data of where the track is in time and space, so the Apache pilot knows exactly where the track is,” said Lt. Col. John Vermeil, commander of the 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment. He added that the tactical operations center can also provide a vector to help determine whether the target can be engaged. Building on Project Flytrap Operation Skyfall II is part of Project Flytrap, the U.S. Army’s broader modernization effort to develop counter-drone capabilities. It followed the first Operation Skyfall in March 2026, which demonstrated that Apache helicopters could pursue and engage drone targets. The second exercise expanded the concept by testing how crews could use targeting data supplied by ground-based sensors to locate and engage unmanned aircraft. Supporting NATO Air Defense The Army is continuing to refine the tactics, techniques and procedures for using helicopters against drones. The demonstration showed how sharing radar data between ground units and aviation crews could provide commanders with additional options for protecting military assets in contested airspace. “What’s important about Skyfall is the integration with the air defenders and the protection warfighter function for NATO,” said Maj. Tyler Jamison, operations officer of the 2nd Battalion, 159th Aviation Regiment. He added that the cooperation “has helped us operationalize what it means to destroy a drone.” The 52nd Air Defense Artillery Brigade serves as the primary tactical air and missile defense integrator for U.S. Army Europe and Africa. Its mission includes joint and combined operations to counter air and missile threats and protect critical infrastructure and military assets across the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM) areas of responsibility. The Skyfall series supports the Army’s effort to integrate sensors and weapons more effectively, enabling air defense and aviation units to coordinate their response to unmanned threats.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 14:02:58
U.S
WASHINGTON, — Lockheed Martin has unveiled the PAC-3 Edge, a next-generation missile interceptor designed to counter hypersonic weapons and other advanced aerial threats. Announced on October 9, the interceptor is the company's entry in the U.S. Army's Future Interceptor program, where it has advanced to the next stage of development. The company plans to begin testing in 2027, with the goal of rapid deployment by 2031. New Seeker and Propulsion System PAC-3 Edge builds on the architecture of the combat-proven Patriot Advanced Capability-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (PAC-3 MSE), but incorporates a new seeker, an upgraded propulsion system and modified flight controls. The seeker was developed at Lockheed Martin's Strigo Product Center, supported by a $250 million investment. The company also plans to invest approximately $800 million overall in seeker technology to support additional systems. The interceptor uses a three-pulse solid rocket motor manufactured by Northrop Grumman. The motor is intended to improve range and altitude performance, while updated flight control systems are designed to enhance maneuverability and enable interception of aircraft, missiles and hypersonic threats at greater distances and higher altitudes. Tim Cahill, president of Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control, said PAC-3 Edge builds on the combat-proven PAC-3 MSE while delivering greater maneuverability, power and velocity. Integration and Production Plans The interceptor is designed to integrate with the U.S. Army's existing and future air and missile defense networks, including the Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), M903 launcher, containerized launch systems and HIMARS Flex. Lockheed Martin has also indicated plans to pursue integration of the PAC-3 missile family with the U.S. Navy's Aegis combat system for potential shipboard deployment. Production is planned at the company's existing PAC-3 facility in Camden, Arkansas. The facility is being expanded and modernized with robotics, automation and other manufacturing improvements. Lockheed Martin expects the PAC-3 Edge to cost roughly the same as the PAC-3 MSE and is targeting production of approximately 2,000 interceptors annually. PAC-3 Edge Joins the Expanding Interceptor Family In July 2026, Lockheed Martin introduced the PAC-3 ACE, a lower-cost interceptor designed for faster production and priced at less than half the cost of the PAC-3 MSE. The ACE is intended to provide a more affordable option for meeting demand for air and missile defense systems, while the Edge focuses on improving performance against advanced threats. Rising Global Demand Drives Production Expansion Demand for Patriot-compatible interceptors has increased amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East, including the conflict involving Iran. Ukraine has repeatedly requested additional Patriot systems from Western allies, and Ukrainian forces have reported high success rates using PAC-3 interceptors against ballistic and other missile threats. To address shortages, Lockheed Martin and the U.S. government have established a seven-year framework to increase annual PAC-3 MSE production from approximately 600 to around 2,000 units. Related multiyear contracts have a potential value of about $58.6 billion. Lockheed Martin is also working with industry partners and suppliers, including Boeing and L3Harris Technologies, to expand manufacturing capacity and accelerate deliveries. The company is one of two manufacturers selected to advance in the U.S. Army's Future Interceptor program, according to Lockheed Martin. A full-scale model of the PAC-3 Edge is scheduled to be displayed at the Association of the U.S. Army conference.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 13:52:33
World
MARRAKECH, MOROCCO — UAE-based defence company EDGE Group has signed a contract with Morocco’s Administration of National Defence (ADN) to supply DESERT STING 16 (DS-16) guided-glide weapons and THUNDER P-31 precision-guided munitions to the Royal Moroccan Air Force (RMAF). Signed at the Marrakech Air Show 2026, the agreement covers the supply and integration of both weapons across Morocco’s unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) fleet. EDGE will carry out the required aircraft modifications and software updates to enable operational deployment. Morocco operates Turkish-made Bayraktar TB2 and Bayraktar Akıncı drones, alongside Chinese-made Wing Loong II aircraft. The DS-16 has previously been integrated with the Bayraktar TB2 for the UAE’s armed forces, while the Moroccan contract marks a new integration effort for the THUNDER series on unmanned aircraft. Weapon Specifications Both weapons are developed and manufactured in the UAE. They use GNSS-assisted inertial navigation systems (GAINS) and can be equipped with optional semi-active laser (SAL) seekers. With laser guidance, they are designed to achieve accuracy within a three-metre radius. DESERT STING 16 (DS-16): A 23-kilogram guided-glide weapon with a range of up to 15 kilometres. THUNDER P-31: A guidance system that converts the MK 81 general-purpose bomb into a precision-guided munition. The fully assembled weapon weighs 140 kilograms and has a range of up to 10 kilometres when released from a standard unmanned aircraft, increasing to 20 kilometres when released from a high-speed, high-altitude aircraft. Saif Al Dahbashi, President of Missiles & Weapons at EDGE, said the contract would provide capabilities tailored to the RMAF’s operational requirements. He also highlighted the company’s commitment to reliable supplies, long-term sustainment and building an enduring partnership with Morocco. EDGE Expands Defence Cooperation in Africa The agreement supports EDGE’s strategy of expanding in Africa by adapting its systems to platforms already operated by partner countries. In Angola, EDGE is implementing a €1 billion naval modernisation programme involving three BR71 MK II Combattante corvettes and six HT-100 NAVAL unmanned helicopters. The company has also signed a Letter of Intent with Angola’s Ministry of Interior for a multi-year border security initiative. Separately, EDGE signed a memorandum of understanding with Morocco’s ADN at the Marrakech Air Show 2026 to explore local production opportunities for high-performance small arms and aeronautical engines through partnerships with Moroccan companies.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 13:08:28
India
NEW DELHI, — India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) will seek a 35 per cent increase in its capital acquisition budget for the 2027–28 financial year (FY28), Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh said on Friday. If approved, the allocation would rise from ₹1.85 lakh crore ($22 billion) in FY27 to approximately ₹2.5 lakh crore ($30 billion). Speaking at the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers’ annual session in New Delhi, Singh said a 25 per cent increase would also be a positive outcome if the full request is not approved. Under this alternative, the capital acquisition budget would reach approximately ₹2.31 lakh crore ($27.5 billion). The proposed increase would fund the acquisition of aircraft, warships, tanks, missiles, weapons systems and other military equipment for the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force. It applies specifically to capital acquisition, not the overall defence budget, which also covers salaries, pensions and operating expenses. Higher funding follows increased procurement The ministry’s request follows two consecutive years of fully utilising its revised modernisation allocations. Defence capital acquisition contracts exceeded ₹2 trillion ($23.8 billion) in both FY25 and FY26, compared with an earlier annual range of ₹80,000 crore to ₹1 lakh crore ($9.5 billion to $11.9 billion). Singh said the ministry had approached the Finance Ministry for additional funding after using its revised allocations. The increased pace of contract signing supports its case for a larger capital acquisition budget. India’s defence budget trends India’s total defence allocation has increased over the past three financial years, alongside higher capital spending. FY25 (2024–25): Total defence allocation of approximately ₹6.22 trillion ($74.1 billion), with capital outlay of around ₹1.72 trillion ($20.5 billion). FY26 (2025–2026): Total allocation of ₹6.81 trillion ($81.1 billion), with capital outlay of ₹1.80 trillion ($21.4 billion). Modernisation funding was approximately ₹1.49 trillion ($17.7 billion), while defence spending represented 1.91 per cent of GDP. FY27 (2026–27): Total allocation of approximately ₹7.85 trillion ($93.5 billion), equivalent to 1.99 per cent of GDP. Capital outlay rose to ₹2.19 trillion ($26.1 billion), while the capital acquisition allocation reached ₹1.85 lakh crore ($22 billion), up 24.39 per cent from ₹1,48,722.8 crore in FY26. FY28 proposal could raise capital acquisition spending to $30 billion If approved, the 35 per cent increase would take the capital acquisition budget to approximately ₹2.5 lakh crore ($30 billion). Even the alternative 25 per cent increase would raise it to around ₹2.31 lakh crore ($27.5 billion). The proposed funding would support continued military procurement and modernisation across the three services. Domestic industry already accounts for 75 per cent of the capital acquisition budget, reflecting the emphasis on Indian defence manufacturing. India’s total defence allocation reached approximately $93.5 billion in FY27. The proposed increase in capital acquisition funding could contribute to further growth in defence spending, although the final FY28 allocation will depend on the government’s decision.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 13:01:02
India
MUMBAI, October 10, 2026 — The Indian Navy is scheduled to commission INS Mangrol, an indigenous Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Mumbai on October 12, 2026. The ceremony will be presided over by Vice Admiral Sanjay Vatsayan, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command. INS Mangrol is the third Mahe-class vessel built by Cochin Shipyard Limited (CSL) in Kochi. The ship was delivered to the Navy on August 21, 2026, and features more than 80 per cent indigenous content under the government’s Make in India and Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. The 78-metre-long vessel is designed to detect, track and engage hostile submarines in coastal and shallow waters. It is equipped with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO)-developed Abhay hull-mounted sonar, lightweight torpedoes, an anti-submarine rocket launcher and the Maareech Advanced Torpedo Decoy System for protection against incoming torpedoes. Powered by three diesel engines and waterjet propulsion, INS Mangrol can reach a maximum speed of 25 knots. In addition to anti-submarine warfare, it can conduct underwater surveillance, mine warfare, low-intensity maritime operations and search-and-rescue missions. The vessel is named after the coastal town of Mangrol in Gujarat’s Junagadh district. It also carries forward the name of the earlier INS Mangrol (M85), a minesweeper decommissioned on April 7, 2004. The commissioning will strengthen the Indian Navy’s indigenous shallow-water warfare capabilities and support efforts to protect India’s coastal areas, ports and harbours.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 12:57:34
U.S
SEATTLE, — Seattle-based Overland AI has introduced IBEX, an autonomous unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) selected by the U.S. Marine Corps for integration into its Marine Air Defense Integrated System (MADIS), which supports counter-unmanned aircraft system (counter-UAS) operations. The company announced the vehicle on October 7, 2026. IBEX is built on the chassis, engine and drivetrain of the Polaris MRZR Alpha tactical vehicle, allowing it to use compatible parts, existing military maintenance and supply chains, and standard diesel or JP-8 military fuel. It is an evolution of Overland AI’s earlier ULTRA ground vehicle, featuring a modified chassis and dimensions designed for transport aboard the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. According to company co-founder and chief operating officer Greg Okopal, IBEX is narrower and longer than ULTRA, with greater payload capacity and additional space for sensors and equipment. Performance and Autonomous Capabilities IBEX can carry up to 2,000 pounds (907 kg) of cargo and equipment, reach speeds of 35 mph (56 km/h), and travel approximately 250 miles (402 km) at 20 mph (32 km/h) on a single tank. It also provides 5 kW of exportable electrical power to support external sensors, equipment and field systems. The vehicle uses Overland AI’s OverDrive autonomy software, OverWatch user interface and SPARK hardware. Its system is designed to navigate complex off-road terrain, plan routes and operate without remote piloting, GPS signals or pre-mapped routes. It is also designed for denied, degraded, intermittent and limited (DDIL) communications environments, while OverWatch enables operators to manage multiple vehicles. Beyond cargo transport, IBEX is designed to function as a mobile power, communications and computing node for forward military units. Marine Corps Integration and Procurement The Marine Corps plans to use IBEX initially to support MADIS counter-drone operations, including resupply of air defence systems. Other potential missions include general resupply, breaching and electronic warfare support. IBEX is being procured under the Accelerate the Procurement and Fielding of Innovative Technologies (APFIT) programme. The initial contract was valued at nearly $20 million for more than a dozen vehicles, primarily for the Marine Corps, with deliveries expected to begin in 2027. A subsequent $4.5 million expansion brought the total contract value to $25 million and added support for the U.S. Army’s 75th Ranger Regiment. The vehicles are also intended for use by U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM). Two IBEX prototypes are undergoing daily testing in central Washington, with further refinements planned before production. Company Background Founded in 2022 as a spinout from the University of Washington, Overland AI develops autonomous vehicle software and hardware for military applications. The Seattle-based company has raised approximately $140 million in venture funding, including a $100 million Series B round in 2026, and operates a production facility in Seattle’s Rainier Beach neighbourhood. IBEX adds an autonomous logistics platform designed to support frontline military units while using the fuel, components and maintenance infrastructure associated with the existing Polaris MRZR fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 12:19:38
U.S
VANDENBERG SPACE FORCE BASE, Calif., — The U.S. Air Force launched an unarmed Mk21A reentry vehicle aboard a Minotaur I rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base on October 9, conducting an in-flight environmental test to support development of the system for the next-generation LGM-35A Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM). The test provided additional flight data to mature the Mk21A design. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the vehicle is currently in the engineering and manufacturing development phase and is designed to carry the modernized W87-1 nuclear warhead on the Sentinel. Maj. Gen. William Rogers, the Air Force portfolio acquisition executive for ICBMs and director of ICBM systems at the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center (AFNWC), said the Mk21A is crucial to modernizing U.S. ICBMs in response to the changing global threat environment. He said its development would support a safe, secure and effective nuclear deterrent. Brig. Gen. Amanda Okeson, program manager for the AFNWC ICBM Systems Directorate, added that ICBM modernization remains an Air Force priority. Mk21A Testing and Development The latest launch follows a successful Mk21A test flight over the Pacific Ocean on June 17, 2024. An earlier attempt on July 6, 2022, failed when the Minotaur II+ rocket carrying the vehicle exploded approximately 11 seconds after liftoff from Vandenberg. Northrop Grumman supplied the Minotaur I rocket for the latest test, which was overseen by the U.S. Space Force’s Rocket Systems Launch Program. Minotaur rockets are used to demonstrate and test payload technologies in operationally realistic flight environments. Northrop Grumman is also developing the Sentinel ICBM. A reentry vehicle houses a missile’s warhead and must withstand high speeds and intense atmospheric heat during reentry. Lockheed Martin adapted the existing Mk21 design for the Mk21A using digital engineering, modeling and simulation. Lockheed Martin began work on the programme in October 2019 under a $108.3 million technology maturation and risk reduction contract. On October 30, 2023, it received a follow-on contract worth approximately $996 million for engineering, manufacturing and development. Subsequent modifications increased the cumulative contract value to about $1.48 billion by late 2025. Work is being conducted in King of Prussia, Pennsylvania, and other locations. The AFNWC leads the Mk21A acquisition effort, coordinating nuclear materiel management for Air Force Materiel Command in support of Air Force Global Strike Command. Sentinel ICBM Programme The LGM-35A Sentinel is intended to replace the U.S. Air Force’s Minuteman III ICBM fleet. Initial Sentinel missiles are planned to use existing Mk21 reentry vehicles and W87-0 warheads before transitioning to the Mk21A and modernized W87-1 warhead. The Air Force plans to procure 642 Sentinel missiles, including 400 for one-for-one replacement of Minuteman III missiles, with the remainder intended for operational reserve and testing. Sentinel has a targeted operational entry date of 2029, with initial flight testing scheduled for 2027. The Air Force has also completed the vertical stacking of an inert Sentinel vehicle at Vandenberg to verify critical subsystems ahead of flight testing. Looking beyond the Mk21A, the Air Force issued a request for information in April 2023 for a Next Generation Reentry Vehicle intended eventually to replace both the Mk21 and Mk21A. Further details about the future system have not been released. The October 9 test adds to the data supporting Mk21A development as the Air Force continues work on its next-generation land-based nuclear deterrent.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-10 12:14:17
World
TURIN, Italy — The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a joint initiative between Italy, Japan and the United Kingdom, has opened its first national engineering site in Turin, Italy, to support the development of its next-generation fighter aircraft. The programme aims to bring the aircraft into operational service from 2035. Operating as Edgewing Italia, the facility will coordinate Italy’s contribution and connect national engineering activities with Edgewing, the international joint venture responsible for the aircraft’s design and development. At full capacity, Edgewing Italia is expected to employ around 1,000 professionals, with more than 1,000 additional Leonardo employees supporting partner-company activities, mainly at Turin and the nearby Caselle site. £4.6 Billion Contract Supports Development On July 3, 2026, the GCAP Agency awarded Edgewing a £4.6 billion contract, jointly funded by the three partner nations. The 18-month agreement covers completion of the advanced analysis and concept phase before detailed design and development. It follows an earlier £686 million contract awarded in April 2026. Edgewing has signed international contracts worth more than €6 billion with the GCAP Agency this year. Launched in 2022, GCAP is overseen by the GCAP International Government Organisation (GIGO) through the GCAP Agency. Edgewing is equally owned by Italy’s Leonardo, the UK’s BAE Systems and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Co. Ltd. (JAIEC), each holding a 33.3% stake. Headquartered in Reading, England, the company is led by Chairman Herman Claesen and CEO Marco Zoff. Edgewing will retain design authority throughout the aircraft’s lifecycle, expected to extend beyond 2070, while national industries and their supply chains will handle production and final assembly. Turin’s Aerospace Industry Supports GCAP Turin was selected for its established aerospace and engineering industry. Leonardo employs around 5,200 people in Piedmont, including 2,200 at Caselle and 1,800 in Turin, while approximately 1,100 employees are associated with the Thales Alenia Space joint venture. Caselle currently handles final assembly of the Eurofighter Typhoon. The regional aerospace ecosystem supports more than 14,500 direct, indirect and induced jobs and includes around 420 suppliers, 87% of which are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These suppliers received approximately €740 million in orders in 2025, while Leonardo’s R&D investment accounts for 9.7% of total corporate research and development spending in the region. Italy’s wider GCAP industrial team includes Avio Aero, Elettronica and MBDA Italia, alongside universities, research centres, SMEs and start-ups. The Turin facility is the first additional Edgewing engineering site to open since the joint GCAP Agency–Edgewing headquarters was established in Reading in 2025. It is the first of three planned national hubs, with corresponding facilities in Japan and the UK expected to open in the coming months. Engineers from all three countries will work at the Turin site, initially including personnel seconded from Leonardo, BAE Systems and JAIEC. Five-Domain Combat System The GCAP fighter is being designed as a digitally connected core platform within a hub-and-spoke architecture covering five domains: air, land, sea, space and cyber. It will connect with other crewed and uncrewed systems, supported by command-and-control and communications infrastructure using artificial intelligence (AI) and supercomputing to coordinate missions. Leonardo CEO and General Manager Lorenzo Mariani said GCAP would strengthen technological sovereignty while supporting innovation, skilled employment and long-term economic growth across the partner nations. He described the programme as one of the most challenging and forward-looking initiatives in the aerospace, defence and security sector, adding that it would contribute to a safer and more prosperous future for Italy, Japan and the UK. Edgewing CEO Marco Zoff said the Turin site was part of the company’s expansion across the three countries. Giuseppe Lupoli, head of Edgewing’s Italian operations, highlighted opportunities for engineers to work on advanced digital engineering. The inauguration was attended by senior representatives of the partner nations, including the Japanese and British ambassadors to Italy and officials from Italy’s National Armaments Directorate. The new hub strengthens Italy’s role in GCAP as the three countries continue work towards the planned 2035 operational entry date.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 16:50:55
Europe
LA CIOTAT, France — French maritime technology company Exail has unveiled Neptis, an integrated autonomous maritime surveillance system combining its new Oryx family of uncrewed surface vessels (USVs), defense-grade payloads and a centralized command-and-control (C2) network. Neptis is designed for Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance (ISR), Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Critical Undersea Infrastructure Protection (CUIP) and Counter-Uncrewed Aerial Systems (C-UAS) missions. It coordinates autonomous assets to extend surveillance coverage and maintain a persistent maritime presence while reducing the need to assign crewed warships to routine monitoring. “Naval surveillance has traditionally relied on sending valuable ships and crews into the areas that need to be monitored. Autonomous systems fundamentally change that equation,” said Sébastien Grall, Head of Maritime Autonomous Systems at Exail. He said Neptis would help navies monitor larger areas, reduce personnel workloads and improve decision-making. Neptis Command-and-Control System Neptis allows operators to coordinate multiple autonomous platforms through a shared interface. Its capabilities include tactical track visualization, mission planning, advanced data fusion and AI-assisted classification, integrating information from sensors operating above, on and below the water's surface. The modular system supports line-of-sight and beyond-line-of-sight communications, configurable data processing and integration with existing naval command networks. It can operate from shore or ships, while human operators retain authority over critical mission approvals and platform retasking. Oryx Family of Uncrewed Surface Vessels The Oryx series comprises three vessels designed for different deployment, endurance and payload requirements. Oryx H-8: A compact vessel for rapid deployment, coastal surveillance and local force protection. It measures 7.71 metres, has a displacement of 1.6 tonnes, endurance of up to 10 days, speed below 14 knots and a range of approximately 1,000 nautical miles. Its fuel capacity is 250 litres. It can operate from suitable ships or shore facilities with low logistical requirements. Oryx H-9: Designed for coastal and offshore surveillance and multi-sensor missions. It measures 9 metres, has a displacement of 2.1 tonnes, endurance of up to 20 days, speed below 13 knots and a range of approximately 2,000 nautical miles. Its fuel capacity is 550 litres. Oryx O-16: Designed for long-duration offshore surveillance and persistent ASW operations. It measures 15.75 metres, has a displacement of 10.5 tonnes, endurance of up to 30 days, speed below 16 knots and a range of approximately 3,500 nautical miles. Its fuel capacity is 2,300 litres, and it uses dual-hybrid propulsion. The vessel can carry heavy payloads, including towed sonars, and support the deployment and recovery of remotely operated towed vehicles (ROTVs), remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). The Oryx vessels build on the naval architecture, hydrodynamics and autonomous capabilities of Exail's civil DriX platforms. The company states that they have demonstrated survivability in Sea State 7 conditions and support remote-supervised autonomous operations, flexible payload integration and military-grade cybersecurity for sovereign deployments. Operational Experience and Production Expansion Neptis builds on Exail's experience with its UMIS mine countermeasures system, which coordinates multiple uncrewed surface and underwater platforms, mission payloads and communications. Exail reports more than 300,000 operational hours, over 1.5 million nautical miles navigated worldwide and more than 90 USVs sold across its DriX and Inspector product lines. These platforms have participated in international naval exercises and operations involving the U.S. Navy's Task Force 59 and 4th Fleet, NATO Task Force X and the French Navy. To support production of Neptis and the Oryx family, Exail plans to open a new manufacturing facility in southern France to increase its USV production capacity. The company is scheduled to present the system and vessels at the Euronaval exhibition in November 2026.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 16:36:14
India
NEW DELHI, — The Ministry of Defence (Navy) has issued a Single Tender Enquiry Request for Proposal (RFP) to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the supply of one indigenous Shakti Electronic Warfare (EW) system to replace the older Ellora Mk-II suite on an existing warship. A Shivalik-class frigate associated with the Eastern Fleet is considered a possible candidate, although the specific vessel has not been confirmed. Under the procurement, BEL must manufacture and deliver the system within 18 months to the Weapon Equipment Depot (WED) in Visakhapatnam, where it will be prepared for integration into the designated vessel. Shakti EW System Capabilities Developed by the Defence Electronics Research Laboratory (DLRL), Hyderabad, under the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), and manufactured by BEL, the Shakti system is designed to detect, intercept, classify, identify and jam conventional and modern radar emissions. It provides an electronic warfare defence layer against radar surveillance and anti-ship missile threats. The system includes two main components: Electronic Support Measures (ESM): Covers 0.175–40 GHz and provides high-accuracy direction finding, radio-frequency (RF) fingerprinting, and data recording and replay for post-mission analysis. Electronic Countermeasures (ECM): Operates across 6–40 GHz using Digital Radio Frequency Memory (DRFM) technology. The stated specifications include up to 50 kW effective radiated power (ERP) and the capability to counter eight or more simultaneous radar threats. These functions help warships identify hostile radar emissions and use electronic countermeasures to disrupt an adversary's ability to track or engage them. Separate from the 2024 Contract The latest single-system procurement is separate from the Ministry of Defence's February 2024 contract with BEL, worth ₹2,269.54 crore, for 11 Shakti EW systems and associated equipment under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category. That contract covers newer capital warships, including Visakhapatnam-class destroyers and Project 17A (Nilgiri-class) frigates. The current RFP instead concerns the potential retrofit of an existing warship. The first Shakti system was installed on INS Visakhapatnam, while the programme has also covered other capital ships, including INS Vikrant. The proposed upgrade supports the Indian Navy's efforts to replace legacy electronic warfare equipment with indigenous technology. Domestic defence manufacturers and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) also contribute to the supply chain. The specific ship assignment and installation schedule have not been confirmed in the procurement details provided.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-09 16:28:07Search
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