Space & Technology
JIUQUAN, — China has successfully launched six new remote-sensing satellites into orbit, expanding its Earth-observation network and continuing the development of its orbital monitoring capabilities. A Long March-4B rocket lifted off at 3:25 a.m. Beijing time on October 24 from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China. The rocket carried three satellites from the Yaogan-53 group (07, 08 and 09) and three from the Yaogan-56 group (19, 20 and 21). All six spacecraft entered their planned orbits. According to Chinese state media, the satellites will support scientific experiments, land and natural resource surveys, agricultural crop-yield estimation, and disaster prevention and mitigation. Yaogan Satellites Have Civilian and Military Applications The Yaogan satellite programme is China's remote-sensing initiative, but its capabilities also have military significance. U.S. government assessments and Western analysts have linked many satellites in the series to military intelligence and reconnaissance operations. Chinese authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific sensors, technical specifications or surveillance capabilities of the six newly launched satellites. Their precise operational roles therefore remain unclear. The satellites add to China's growing Earth-observation constellation, which supports civilian applications while also having potential dual-use purposes. 673rd Long March Rocket Mission The launch marked the 673rd flight mission of China's Long March rocket family, reflecting the country's continued use of its established launch vehicles to deploy satellites. The Yaogan-53 and Yaogan-56 groups each received their first three satellites in an earlier launch in September 2026. Commercial space companies, including MinoSpace and GalaxySpace, contributed to the development of the satellite groups, although their specific roles have not been disclosed. The latest mission further expands China's orbital remote-sensing infrastructure, which is used for resource monitoring, agricultural assessment, scientific research and other Earth-observation activities.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 15:26:45
Space & Technology
WASHINGTON, — A US Navy patent describes a system that uses powerful laser pulses to create plasma filaments in the air, forming a temporary structure designed to deflect, diffract or partially reflect incoming high-energy laser beams and radio-frequency waves. The concept aims to provide a rapid response to directed-energy threats against military platforms. The patent, titled Method and Apparatus for Laser-Induced Plasma Filaments for Agile Counter-Directed Energy Weapon Applications, was filed on June 15, 2018, by the United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy. It was granted as US Patent 10,508,889 on December 17, 2019. The inventors are Brittany E. Lynn, Alexandru Hening and Ryan P. Lu, based in San Diego, California. The work is assigned to the US government under Navy Case Number 104178. How the Plasma Filament System Works The process begins with a powerful infrared laser pulse travelling through the atmosphere. As the pulse moves through the air, the optical Kerr effect causes it to self-focus as the air’s refractive index changes with light intensity. At sufficiently high intensity, air molecules become ionized, creating plasma that causes the beam to defocus. The balance between self-focusing and plasma-induced defocusing allows the laser pulse to remain concentrated over longer distances, leaving a plasma column behind it. The patent describes initial electron densities ranging from (10^{13}) to (10^{17}) electrons per cubic centimetre, with filaments potentially extending hundreds of metres under suitable conditions. By generating multiple plasma columns in a parallel arrangement, the system creates a temporary, sheet-like structure in the air. The spacing between the filaments can be designed to interact with the incoming electromagnetic waves. In transmission mode, the array can diffract incoming energy into different directions, spreading it over a larger area and reducing the energy concentrated on a protected target. In reflection mode, it can redirect part of the incoming energy towards its source. Because the plasma columns are discrete, the reflection is partial rather than complete. Rapid Response to Directed-Energy Threats The patent identifies high-energy lasers and high-power radio-frequency systems as threats capable of damaging military sensors, electronics and platforms. Existing countermeasures, such as water jets and smoke clouds, can require time to deploy and do not disable the attacking weapon. The proposed plasma-based structure is designed to form rapidly. The patent describes a response on the order of microseconds, with ionization occurring within nanoseconds. Laser pulse energy, repetition rate and wavelength can be adjusted to influence the plasma and its interaction with incoming electromagnetic energy. The document also describes stacking multiple filament planes to increase their combined effect and using a secondary electromagnetic beam to extend the lifetime of the ionized regions. It states that the system would not add radar cross-section when switched off. Research Status and Potential Applications The Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific has pursued related applications of laser-induced plasma filaments, including infrared countermeasures against heat-seeking missiles, free-space optical communications and plasma-based antennas or electromagnetic test targets. The patent is available for licensing to qualified commercial entities through TechLink, the Department of Defense’s technology-transfer intermediary. Licensing and technical inquiries are also identified in the patent documentation for the Navy’s Office of Research and Technical Applications. However, the patent describes a proposed technology, not a confirmed operational defence system. Its publication and grant do not establish that the system has been deployed on Navy ships or demonstrated to provide a complete shield against directed-energy weapons.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 15:18:27
Europe
COPENHAGEN, — Denmark has provided a 750 million Danish kroner (approximately $113 million) state-backed loan guarantee to the Danish subsidiary of Ukrainian defence company Fire Point to build a solid rocket propellant plant in southern Denmark. The Ministry of Industry, Business and Financial Affairs announced the decision on October 21, with financing arranged through the Export and Investment Fund of Denmark (EIFO). Officials said the guarantee is necessary because the war in Ukraine prevents Fire Point from securing loans under normal commercial terms. Rocket Fuel Production in Southern Denmark The plant is under construction in Vojens, southern Jutland, near Skrydstrup Air Base. Covering more than 120,000 square metres, it will produce solid rocket propellant for Fire Point’s FP-7 and FP-7.x missiles, as well as boosters for its Flamingo cruise missile. Once operational, the facility is expected to support production of 800 to more than 4,100 missiles annually. Initial output will supply Ukrainian forces, with plans to serve European defence partners in the future. The plant is expected to begin operations by the end of 2027, about one year later than originally planned. Fire Point CEO Iryna Terekh announced the delay in August, citing slower construction and the need to meet solid rocket fuel safety requirements. The project has also required adjustments to Danish planning and environmental rules, with temporary waivers granted for more than 20 regulations, according to the reports. The estimated plant cost has risen from around €50 million to more than €150 million. Construction began on December 1, 2025, following Denmark’s invitation to Fire Point in September 2025. Denmark’s Support for Ukraine’s Defence Industry Denmark became the first NATO member to host manufacturing facilities belonging to Ukraine’s defence industry. Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus said production outside Ukraine would help protect critical military supply chains from Russian attacks. He also highlighted opportunities for cooperation with the Danish armed forces and companies, including access to technologies and experience developed during the war. Business Minister Martin Lidegaard said the project supports Ukraine’s defence needs while strengthening Denmark’s defence industry and European security. EIFO is involved in nearly 40 projects connected to Ukraine and partnerships between Ukrainian and Danish businesses. Fire Point’s Missile Development Fire Point develops and manufactures unmanned systems, long-range strike drones, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles. The Danish plant will expand its production capabilities outside Ukraine. The company has also signed agreements with more than a dozen European defence firms for radar, guidance and other systems associated with its Freyja missile defence project. The loan guarantee marks another step in Denmark’s support for Ukrainian defence production through cross-border industrial cooperation. The facility’s operational start remains scheduled for the end of 2027.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 15:11:35
U.S
MIDDLE EAST — The United States is expanding its military presence in the Middle East, with warships receiving additional long-range missiles and bunker-buster bombs, a third aircraft carrier heading toward the region, and thousands of additional sailors and Marines being deployed. According to a Wall Street Journal report published on October 24, US personnel aboard the USS George Washington and an accompanying guided-missile destroyer in the Arabian Sea were observed conducting flight operations and replenishing munitions and supplies. The weapons included standoff land-attack missiles and bunker-buster bombs designed to penetrate fortified and underground targets. US officials familiar with military planning said the deployments are intended to provide options if President Donald Trump decides to resume attacks against Iran. However, no final decision on further strikes had been announced in the reporting. Three Aircraft Carrier Strike Groups Heading to the Region Two US carrier strike groups, led by the USS George Washington and USS George H.W. Bush, are already operating in the region. A third, led by the USS Theodore Roosevelt, departed San Diego in late September and is heading toward the Middle East. Its arrival is expected in the coming weeks, with earlier reports pointing to November. An amphibious readiness group led by the USS Makin Island is also heading to the region with more than 2,000 Marines from the 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit. The deployment, alongside the carrier movement, is expected to add approximately 9,000–10,000 sailors and Marines to the regional force. The USS Boxer amphibious readiness group is already operating near the Strait of Hormuz. The expanded deployments come as the US continues its military operations and extends the presence of forces and equipment in the region. Refuelling Aircraft and Strike Preparations US aerial-refuelling activity has also increased across Europe and the US Central Command (CENTCOM) area of responsibility. Open-source tracking reports indicated that approximately 190–195 US aerial-refuelling tankers were tracked across these areas as of October 21. Reported movements included KC-135 and KC-46 tankers, which support aircraft by extending their flight range and time in the air. Separate reports have also described US and Israeli aircraft conducting activities associated with possible strike planning, including flights over Iraq and routes approaching Iran. The details and operational purpose of these activities have not been fully confirmed. Regional Tensions Ahead of US Midterm Elections The military buildup is taking place ahead of the November 3 US midterm elections, with the administration considering its options toward Iran. The movements could support several potential missions, including protecting commercial shipping, maintaining regional security and conducting further military operations if authorised. Regional tensions remain high, including concerns over missile threats and security around key waterways. Meanwhile, diplomatic contacts are continuing alongside military preparations. The deployment of additional warships, munitions, refuelling aircraft and personnel indicates that the United States is maintaining the capability for sustained operations in the region. However, the buildup alone does not confirm that a new US strike against Iran is imminent.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 15:06:12
World
LONDON, — The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) has opened a tender to acquire Skydio X10D reconnaissance drones, with an estimated contract value of £120,000 excluding VAT and £144,000 including VAT. The American-made quadcopter is designed for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. Published in 15 October 2026 on the Defence Sourcing Portal and the Find a Tender service, the procurement notice is titled “Acquisition of SKYDIO X10D Uncrewed Air System UK4.” It was issued by Navy Commercial, the Royal Navy’s procurement office based at Whale Island in Portsmouth, under the Procurement Act 2023. The tender does not specify the number of drones to be purchased or the military unit that will operate them. Delivery is planned for the South-East of England. Suppliers must submit bids by 11:59 PM UTC on November 19, 2026, with the supplier selection expected around November 26. The contract is scheduled to run from November 30, 2026, to March 31, 2027, although a separate portal listing gives December 10 as a possible start date. The opportunity is suitable for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and the contract will be awarded on the basis of price. Skydio X10D Drone Capabilities Manufactured by Skydio in Hayward, California, the X10D is a compact, rucksack-portable quadcopter designed for military reconnaissance. The drone uses onboard artificial intelligence (AI) to navigate around obstacles and track subjects, including in complete darkness. Its camera systems include daytime and thermal imaging capabilities, allowing it to gather information in different lighting conditions. The X10D can automatically switch radio channels to help maintain its communications link in environments affected by electronic warfare and jamming. It can also hold its position and navigate without relying on GPS signals. Depending on configuration, the drone weighs approximately 2.11–2.14 kg, has a maximum flight time of around 40 minutes and reaches speeds of about 45 mph (72 km/h). The system has been listed on the US Department of Defense’s Blue UAS list since May 2024, indicating that it has been included in the US military’s approved small-drone programme. International Adoption and Previous UK Experience The X10D has been adopted by the US Army and other international military customers. In March 2026, the US Army ordered more than 2,500 X10D drones for over $52 million, in what Skydio described as the largest single-vendor small-drone order in Army history. Spain signed a contract worth up to €18 million in February 2025, while Norway issued an initial tender valued at 101 million Norwegian kroner in July 2025, according to the supplied information. The UK military has previously tested Skydio technology. In May 2022, Defence Equipment and Support’s Future Capabilities Group awarded a contract worth approximately £3 million for the earlier X2D drone, following trials involving 90 Skydio drones in 2020. Delivery was managed alongside British partner Marlborough Communications. More recently, in September 2026, the British Army contracted for more than 1,000 small drones under a £16 million package that included 670 Skydio X10 systems, supplied through Marlborough Communications as part of Project Rapstone, according to the supplied information. The latest tender represents a further procurement opportunity for the X10D through the Royal Navy’s commercial procurement channel. The final quantity and the intended operating unit have not been disclosed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 14:59:00
India
KOCHI, — The Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory (NPOL), a research laboratory of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) in Kochi, has issued a Request for Proposal (RFP) for the development of Version 2 Side Scan Sonar (SSS) and Multi-Beam Echo-Sounder (MBE) transducer arrays for two Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs). The procurement aims to equip the underwater vehicles with acoustic sensors for high-resolution seabed imaging, depth measurement and maritime surveys. The RFP specifies four 1.8-metre Side Scan Sonar arrays for port and starboard mounting, along with two complete sets of Multi-Beam Echo-Sounder arrays, each comprising transmitter and receiver elements. Technical Requirements for Side Scan Sonar The SSS arrays will operate in the 450–500 kHz frequency range, with a bandwidth greater than 50 kHz. Each array must include 40 receiver (Rx) modules and three transmitter (Tx) modules. The specified receive beamwidth is 0.1° × 45°, with a source level of at least 203 dB and receive sensitivity of –200 dB or better. The system must also include a 38 dB preamplifier. Side-scan sonar produces acoustic images of the seabed by transmitting sound pulses to either side of a moving platform. The resulting images can help identify underwater objects, including mines, wrecks and debris. Multi-Beam Echo-Sounder Specifications The MBE arrays will operate in the 625–675 kHz frequency range, with a bandwidth of 50 kHz. The specified configuration includes 96 receiver modules and three transmitter modules. The system must achieve a source level of at least 185 dB and receive sensitivity of –208 dB or better. Unlike side-scan sonar, which primarily produces seabed images, a multi-beam echo-sounder measures depth across multiple beams to generate detailed underwater topographical maps. The two systems will provide complementary imaging and survey capabilities for the AUVs. Deep-Water and Environmental Testing NPOL requires both sonar systems to operate at depths of 300 metres or more. Their structural design must withstand a baseline hydrostatic pressure of 30 bar, with pressure testing specified between 35 and 45 bar. The equipment must also undergo thermal endurance tests and withstand vibration levels of up to 6 Grms to meet the specified environmental and mechanical requirements. Supporting India’s Underwater Capabilities NPOL, based in Thrikkakara, Kochi, works on sonar systems, underwater surveillance technologies and oceanographic research in support of the Indian Navy. The new procurement aligns with India’s efforts to expand the use of uncrewed underwater systems for maritime surveys and mine-countermeasure missions. In November 2025, the Naval Science and Technological Laboratory (NSTL) in Visakhapatnam, working with NPOL and other DRDO laboratories, completed development of a new generation of man-portable AUV swarms equipped with side-scan sonar and cameras. The systems underwent field trials and were prepared for production. The latest RFP seeks transducer arrays that meet the specified acoustic performance and environmental requirements for integration into two designated AUVs. Further information on delivery timelines, bidder eligibility and evaluation criteria is available in the official tender documents.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 14:29:27
India
NEW DELHI, — India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for a High Altitude Pseudo Satellite (HAPS) test at the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s (DRDO) Integrated Test Range (ITR) at Chitradurga, Karnataka. The NOTAM is valid from 05:30 IST on October 26, 2026, until 05:30 IST on October 31, 2026, with a vertical limit extending from ground level to 20,000 feet. The Aeronautical Test Range (ATR) at Challakere, in Chitradurga district, supports testing of unmanned and manned aerial systems, including unmanned aerial vehicles and aerostats. India Advances Indigenous HAPS Development HAPS platforms are designed to operate in the stratosphere, typically at altitudes of 18–25 km, supporting intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance and communications relay missions. DRDO’s Aerial Delivery Research and Development Establishment (ADRDE) has been developing a lighter-than-air HAPS platform. During a trial on October 6, 2026, the experimental platform reached 21 km above mean sea level and maintained an altitude of around 20 km for more than 30 minutes before a controlled descent and recovery. Real-time video and flight data were transmitted to a ground control station. The trial involved coordination with the Indian Air Force, CEMILAC, DGCA, the Airports Authority of India and other agencies. The flight followed an airship trial in May 2025 from Sheopur, Madhya Pradesh, where a prototype reached approximately 17 km and remained airborne for around 62 minutes. Meanwhile, CSIR-NAL has tested subscale fixed-wing, solar-powered HAPS prototypes at Chitradurga, with flights reaching approximately 24,000–25,000 feet. Separate airship-based and fixed-wing HAPS programmes also received Defence Acquisition Council clearances in 2026. The latest NOTAM indicates continued testing activity at Chitradurga as India advances its indigenous high-altitude platform capabilities. Details of the current test configuration have not been publicly released.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 14:21:13
World
ABU DHABI, — UAE defence technology group EDGE has integrated autonomous maritime and aerial systems during a naval demonstration involving the United Arab Emirates Navy and the United States Navy. The exercise showcased Emirati and allied technologies operating under a unified command structure for reconnaissance and force protection missions. The demonstration took place in the presence of Major General Staff Humaid Mohammed Al Rumaithi, Commander of the UAE Naval Forces, and featured maritime technologies from the UAE, the United States and the United Kingdom. EDGE provided operational facilities, planning expertise and equipment, while its specialists worked with both navies to design and conduct the scenarios. Unmanned surface vessels (USVs) used artificial intelligence (AI), onboard sensors and command-and-control systems. Unified Command and Autonomous Operations Hamad Al Marar, EDGE’s managing director and chief executive officer, said effective coordination and control are increasingly important as autonomous systems become more capable. The demonstration connected participating systems through a single command layer, allowing human operators to define mission parameters while AI supported execution. This provided Emirati and allied forces with a common operating picture for coordinated activities across the air and sea. The command architecture centred on TACTICA AI’s Naval Warfare C2 Centre for Autonomous Systems, paired with HADAF, a sovereign UAE targeting system based on military doctrine, operational knowledge and rules of engagement. The exercise also used the Maritime Autonomy Kit, developed by the Technology Innovation Institute (TII). EDGE led the integration of sovereign autonomous systems for a UAE Navy demonstration with the US Navy. One command layer connected multiple systems, turning autonomy into coordinated action and strengthening interoperability between allied forces https://t.co/JyLjOVc3fK — EDGE (@_edgegroup) October 22, 2026 170 M-DETECTOR and Maritime Capabilities A key asset was the 170 M-DETECTOR, a 17-metre surface vessel produced by EDGE entity Abu Dhabi Ship Building. It can operate in manned or unmanned configurations and supports surveillance, mapping and surface operations. The vessel features two 900-horsepower diesel engines, speeds of up to 40 knots, a silent electric propulsion mode, multi-beam sonar and 360-degree cameras. Counter-Drone Defence and Surveillance EDGE deployed the VORTEX-E interceptor and SKYSHIELD-N naval counter-unmanned aerial system to protect naval assets against drone threats. SKYSHIELD-N can jam and spoof drone command links and GNSS frequencies at ranges of up to 10 kilometres, according to the supplied information. The forces also used GPS-PROTECT anti-jamming technology to protect satellite navigation. The MIRSAD-X multispectral electro-optical imager, working alongside a network of maritime radars, handled detection and tracking. Strengthening UAE-US Naval Cooperation EDGE said operating its systems alongside allied military assets helped improve interoperability between the UAE and US navies. Participants also exchanged operational knowledge and assessed the potential application of autonomous maritime technologies in defence operations. The demonstration highlighted the integration of unmanned vessels, sensors, targeting systems and counter-drone defences under a common command structure to support maritime reconnaissance and force protection.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 14:10:20
Europe
ROME, — Italy has reportedly ordered 30 Panther-based main battle tanks and 48 Lynx infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) from Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV) under contracts valued at €3.7 billion, according to Italian financial newspaper Milano Finanza on October 22. However, the Italian government, Leonardo, Rheinmetall and their joint venture have not formally confirmed the reported orders. Leonardo CEO Lorenzo Mariani recently said the tank programme was “ready to enter production,” adding that official announcements must be coordinated with the customer. Panther Tanks Under the NMBT Programme The 30 tanks will be based on Rheinmetall’s KF51 Panther platform and built to Italian requirements under the New Main Battle Tank (NMBT/I-MBT) programme. If confirmed, the order would be the first production contract for any version of the Panther. The new tanks are intended to serve alongside Italy’s upgraded C2 Ariete main battle tanks. Leonardo will contribute electronics, mission systems and weapons integration to the Italian configuration. The wider programme aims to procure 132 main battle tanks and 140 support vehicles by 2037. Delivery dates and the division of the reported €3.7 billion value between development and production have not been disclosed. Lynx IFVs to Replace Older Dardo Vehicles The reported order includes 48 Lynx IFVs under the Italian Army’s Armoured Combat System (A2CS) programme, adding to an initial order of 21 vehicles placed in late 2025. Of the first 21 vehicles, five were acquired in an interim configuration based on Hungary’s Hiúz variant, while 16 were adapted to Italian requirements. The first four were delivered in January 2026 for testing at the Montelibretti range near Rome. The earlier agreement included options and provisions for upgrades to the Italian configuration featuring Leonardo’s Hitfist turret. It remains unclear whether the newly reported 48 vehicles will differ from the configuration already under development, and their delivery schedule has not been announced. Italy plans to acquire approximately 1,050 Lynx ITA/A2CS vehicles across more than a dozen variants, including command, reconnaissance and medical versions. Based on Rheinmetall’s KF41 platform, the Lynx is intended to replace the Italian Army’s ageing VCC-80 Dardo infantry fighting vehicles. The A2CS programme is scheduled to continue until 2040. Italian Production and Joint Venture Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles, a 50:50 joint venture established in 2024 by Italy’s Leonardo and Germany’s Rheinmetall, is responsible for the industrial development and production of both vehicle families. Headquartered in Rome, with operational bases in La Spezia, the joint venture is expected to conduct approximately 60% of the programme’s industrial activities in Italy. These include development, final assembly, systems integration, qualification testing, delivery and logistical support. Long-Term Defence Investment The reported €3.7 billion order forms part of Italy’s broader armoured vehicle modernisation strategy. The tank programme is planned to run until 2037, while A2CS will continue until 2040. Together, the two programmes are expected to cost approximately €23 billion over their lifespans. The reported orders would support the replacement of older tracked vehicles and the introduction of new tanks and infantry fighting vehicles into Italian Army service.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 13:56:10
India
NEW DELHI, — India’s indigenous Arudhra radar, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and manufactured by Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), has reportedly tracked a simulated F-35A stealth fighter during an AI-assisted exercise. Defence reporting published in June 2026 described the virtual scenario as an examination of how India’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) could detect and track low-observable aircraft. However, no official DRDO confirmation of the specific simulation has been identified. Arudhra Radar Specifications Arudhra is a ground-based, multifunction active phased-array radar designed for aerial surveillance, detection and tracking. Its publicly reported specifications include a maximum instrumented range of 400 km, detection of a target with a 2 m² radar cross-section (RCS) at up to 300 km, and an altitude coverage of approximately 100 metres to 30 kilometres. It uses electronic beam steering in azimuth and elevation to measure a target’s range, direction, altitude and radial velocity. Its co-located Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system helps identify cooperating aircraft. How Could Arudhra Detect a Stealth Target? Stealth aircraft such as the American F-35 Lightning II use specialised shaping, internal weapons carriage and radar-absorbing materials to reduce radar reflections. Stealth does not make an aircraft completely invisible; it reduces the radar energy returned to a receiver, making detection more difficult. Arudhra transmits radio waves and processes the small amount of energy reflected by an aircraft. Its phased-array antenna, electronic beam steering and signal-processing capabilities can help detect targets and maintain tracks under suitable conditions. Actual performance depends on the target’s RCS, viewing angle, radar frequency, noise, interference and processing thresholds. The radar’s 400 km instrumented range does not mean it can detect an F-35 at that distance. Its reported 300 km detection range applies to a specified target size, not automatically to stealth aircraft. Radar Cross-Section and Detection Range In a simplified radar model, detection range varies approximately with the fourth root of the target’s RCS, assuming other conditions remain unchanged. For example, if a radar detects a target with a 2 m² RCS at 300 km, a hypothetical target with a 0.1 m² RCS would have an estimated detection range of approximately 142 km under the same assumptions. This is an illustrative calculation, not an estimate of Arudhra’s actual range against the F-35. The aircraft’s operational RCS is not publicly established and varies with viewing angle, frequency and configuration. How Could the AI-Assisted IACCS Simulation Work? The reported simulation could examine how Arudhra’s radar-processing functions and IACCS handle a virtual stealth target. The exact implementation and inputs used in the reported exercise have not been publicly established. A technically plausible simulation could involve four stages: Arudhra radar model: Simulates radar transmissions, target reflections, background noise and detection limits. Simulated target and radar processing: Models an F-35-like aircraft’s assumed RCS and flight path, then tests whether the simulated radar returns produce a detection and a usable track. AI-assisted analysis: Analyses noisy measurements, estimates target movement and assesses track quality. AI may help distinguish weak signals from noise, but it can also produce false detections. IACCS network simulation: Tests how radar tracks are shared, correlated with other sensor reports and presented to air-defence operators. This is a technically plausible simulation architecture, not a confirmed description of the system DRDO actually tested. The result depends on how the virtual target is represented. A predefined target track means the software already knows the aircraft’s simulated position, so successful tracking may primarily demonstrate the simulation and network functions. Synthetic radar returns provide a more meaningful detection test if they realistically model the target’s RCS, flight path and noise. Trials using physical radar hardware and real measurements against representative targets provide stronger evidence of actual radar performance. AI cannot recover information that is completely absent from the measurements. Its effectiveness depends on the quality of the sensor data and the accuracy of the underlying models. How Could IACCS Improve Stealth-Target Tracking? India’s Integrated Air Command and Control System (IACCS) combines available air-surveillance information to support a broader air picture. Reports from multiple compatible radar and passive sensors could help establish a more reliable track if they independently obtain useful measurements of the same aircraft. However, networking does not guarantee detection if no sensor provides usable information about the target. The significance of the reported simulation depends on whether it used a predefined virtual track, synthetic radar returns or measurements from physical radar hardware. Does Tracking Mean Arudhra Can Lock Onto an F-35? Not necessarily. Detection, tracking and weapon engagement are separate capabilities. Detection identifies a possible target, while tracking estimates its position and movement over time. A weapon engagement may require a more accurate and timely fire-control-quality track, depending on the weapon system. A simulation demonstrating a track against a virtual stealth target would not, by itself, prove that Arudhra can provide the information required to engage an operational F-35. What the Simulation Means for India’s Air Defence The reported exercise describes a technically plausible way to evaluate Arudhra’s phased-array radar and tracking capabilities against a low-observable target model. AI-assisted processing and IACCS integration could help assess how weak radar detections are handled across an air-defence network. However, there is no verified basis to claim that Arudhra has demonstrated detection or tracking of a real F-35 at 300–400 km. Confirming such a capability would require reliable details of the test methodology, target radar signature, measured detection range and supporting live-test results.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-25 13:49:29
India
NEW DELHI, — Bengaluru-based Flying Wedge Defence & Aerospace (FWDA) unveiled a full-scale static prototype of its FWD Supreme autonomous combat aircraft in New Delhi on October 13, 2026. The company describes it as India's first indigenous AI-piloted loyal wingman concept, designed to operate alongside manned fighter jets. The aircraft is intended for reconnaissance, electronic warfare, decoy operations and precision strikes, with AI systems enabling autonomous decision-making. Similar loyal wingman programmes are under development in the United States, Turkey and other countries. FWD Supreme Specifications The programme includes two variants: the Supreme Heavy, weighing 1,000–1,500 kg, and the Supreme Lite, a 250 kg technology demonstrator. The Heavy is designed in a flying-wing configuration measuring approximately 10 × 10 metres, with an internal weapons bay and a planned payload capacity of around 350 kg. Company specifications target a cruising speed of 500–600 km/h, a maximum speed of Mach 0.8–0.85, a range exceeding 1,500 km and endurance of more than two hours. Its propulsion system is planned to deliver approximately 5 kN of thrust, with a twin-engine configuration under consideration. These figures remain design targets and have not been demonstrated in flight. The Heavy's configuration has been finalised, and detailed design work is approximately halfway complete, according to the company. The Supreme Lite has completed taxi trials. FWDA expects its maiden flight within six to eight weeks of the October 13 unveiling, potentially in late November or December 2026. It will validate technologies for the larger aircraft while also serving as a potential standalone platform. AI Drone Teaming and Navigation FWDA's Mobbing Doctrine envisages teams of 15–20 AI-controlled drones operating alongside a crewed fighter. They would coordinate surveillance, electronic warfare, decoy and strike missions while sharing information and making tactical decisions. Founder and CEO Suhas Tejaskanda said the programme aims to enable aircraft to operate with minimal human intervention. The company has indicated a target unit cost of $3–5 million. For GPS-denied environments, the aircraft is planned to use visual odometry, which estimates movement and position from onboard camera images, alongside inertial navigation systems. Satellite communications and secure aircraft-to-aircraft networking are also planned. FWDA is working with the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), Bengaluru, on data encryption and quantum-related applications. Indigenous Engine and Development Costs FWDA plans to integrate the DRDO-developed Manik engine to increase domestic content. The company estimates that indigenous components could account for around 80% with the Indian engine, compared with approximately 60% if an imported engine is used. Engines from Czech manufacturer PBS are also being considered as alternatives. The Supreme Lite has been reported to have around 90% indigenous content in some company statements. The programme's estimated development cost is $100 million, including $10 million for the Supreme Lite. FWDA has raised $7 million for the lighter aircraft programme and is seeking further private investment. It has also outlined Operation Triple Seven, an initiative involving potential international partners for development and manufacturing. Flight Testing and Procurement Status The October 13 display was a static, non-flying prototype, and the Supreme Heavy has not yet completed flight testing. Further work will cover technology development, systems integration, testing and certification, including engagement with the Centre for Military Airworthiness and Certification (CEMILAC). A. Anbarasu, the Ministry of Defence's acquisition chief, attended the unveiling. However, no formal government procurement agreement or funding commitment was announced. Founded in 2022, FWDA is developing the FWD Supreme alongside other Indian unmanned combat aircraft initiatives, including the DRDO's Ghatak and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited's CATS Warrior. The aircraft's proposed performance and autonomous capabilities remain subject to testing and validation.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 16:29:28
U.S
LOS ANGELES, — The U.S. Space Force is preparing to acquire commercial technologies for operations in cislunar space, the region between Earth and the Moon, with the aim of fielding initial capabilities by the end of fiscal year 2029. Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy, the Space Force’s portfolio acquisition executive for advanced programs, outlined the plan at the Space Industry Days conference in Los Angeles. According to reports from Breaking Defense, the service plans to issue two requests for information (RFIs) to identify commercially available or near-ready technologies that can be deployed without lengthy research and development. Space Force Seeks Three Key Capabilities The first RFI will focus on spacecraft, sensors and related systems for space domain awareness, enabling the military to monitor and track activity across the Earth-Moon region. It will also seek positioning, navigation and timing (PNT) systems that can support operations beyond traditional Earth orbit, along with the ground infrastructure needed to connect these capabilities. The second RFI will seek artificial intelligence software that enables spacecraft to operate more autonomously. Such systems would help spacecraft process sensor data, detect onboard hardware failures and adjust their operations without requiring constant instructions from ground control on Earth. Purdy said the Space Force wants existing commercial or near-commercial solutions that can be delivered quickly rather than projects requiring years of additional development. He emphasized the need for rapidly deliverable capabilities instead of spending research and development funds on systems that are not yet ready for operational use. The target is to field initial capabilities by September 2029, the end of fiscal year 2029. Earlier work by the Air Force Research Laboratory and the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has explored technologies for cislunar operations, but the new initiative is intended to move toward procurement and practical military use. China’s Cislunar Activities Drive U.S. Concerns China’s expanding activities in cislunar space are a major reason for the accelerated effort. Purdy said, “China is moving out in this area. We have traditionally not.” A recent Chinese project involved launching 30 CubeSats into a highly elliptical orbit near an Earth-Moon Lagrange point and into lunar orbit. China has described the project as a scientific effort at United Nations-related meetings, while defense experts cited by Breaking Defense have raised concerns about its potential use for cislunar surveillance. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also highlighted the strategic importance of cislunar space on October 20 in Dayton, Ohio, saying that control of subsea and cislunar domains would be important in future conflicts. Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine has likewise called for the military to prepare to operate across domains extending from the seabed to cislunar space. Space Force Coordinates with NASA The Space Force is working with NASA to coordinate infrastructure that can support both civilian lunar exploration, including the Artemis program, and military requirements. Areas of interest include lunar time systems, communications and space domain awareness. The service established a Cislunar Coordination Office in May 2026 to develop roadmaps, coordinate acquisition priorities and give commercial companies clearer information about military requirements. The office is also working to identify gaps in existing capabilities and coordinate investments across government agencies. The Space Systems Command has also launched the ACES initiative, according to the supplied information, to help commercial space companies address security-clearance barriers that can complicate participation in classified military projects. No contracts have been awarded, and no operational weapons deployments in cislunar space have been announced. The immediate priority remains developing surveillance, navigation, communications and autonomous spacecraft capabilities that can support U.S. operations in the Earth-Moon region by the end of fiscal year 2029.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 16:26:36
India
NEW DELHI, — India is developing an indigenous artificial intelligence (AI) layer for its armed forces and expanding domestic production of conventional ballistic missiles to reduce costs and strengthen military preparedness. Speaking at the KPMG Agrasar Bharat Manch event on October 23, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh outlined the plans to prepare the armed forces for technology-driven warfare and increase domestic manufacturing capacity. India Develops Indigenous Military AI The Ministry of Defence, working with the IndiaAI Mission, is developing a dedicated military AI layer to support data fusion, target acquisition and decision-making. The system aims to shorten the sensor-to-shooter loop, allowing information gathered by surveillance systems to be processed more quickly for operational responses. The computing infrastructure required for the project is being procured. The government plans to work with private-sector companies already selected under the national AI initiative. Singh stressed that technological sovereignty is essential because military AI systems will handle sensitive operational data. Reliance on foreign companies could create security risks or limit access to critical technology. India remains open to cooperation with trusted foreign countries but prioritises developing these capabilities domestically. Human oversight of operational combat decisions will remain necessary despite the integration of AI. DRDO Opens Missile Technologies to Industry Alongside digital modernisation, India is increasing the production of conventional ballistic missiles to lower costs and build the industrial capacity required for prolonged, high-intensity conflicts. Singh, serving as acting chairman of the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), said conventional missile technologies developed over several decades have been placed in the public domain to enable wider domestic production. Nearly 17 major private- and public-sector companies have either signed Production of Technology (POT) agreements or are in the process of receiving technology transfers for conventional missiles of different ranges. The initiative aims to expand manufacturing capacity and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. Singh said India can produce missiles at nearly one-fourth the price charged by foreign manufacturers. Drawing lessons from recent conflicts, including Iran's experience, Singh highlighted the need for larger quantities of conventional ballistic missiles and drones in future warfare. Expanding production is intended to strengthen India's strategic deterrence and wartime readiness. The initiatives form part of India's broader defence modernisation efforts, which address AI, drone warfare, cyber threats and precision weapons while strengthening domestic technological capabilities and manufacturing.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 16:19:53
Space & Technology
HOUSTON, — NASA has successfully demonstrated space-to-space Wi-Fi communication between its R5-S10 CubeSat and Momentus’ Vigoride-7 orbital service vehicle, allowing the two spacecraft to exchange data and relay information to mission controllers on Earth. The demonstration took place on September 17, 2026, in low Earth orbit, using the Deke Space Communicator, a Wi-Fi system developed by San Francisco-based Solstar Space and installed aboard Vigoride-7. During approximately 30 minutes of proximity operations, the system facilitated the collection and transfer of more than 2,300 data files. The files included optical imagery, infrared observations and LiDAR sensor readings gathered as the CubeSat flew near Vigoride-7 and inspected the vehicle under different lighting conditions and at different distances. Spacecraft Exchange Data Through Wi-Fi During the demonstration, the R5-S10 CubeSat transmitted a portion of its collected data to the Deke Space Communicator aboard Vigoride-7 through a local Wi-Fi connection. The information was then relayed through an experimental link using the Iridium satellite communications network to mission controllers at NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston, Texas. Before the flight, ground testing had demonstrated that the wireless link could operate over distances exceeding 200 meters. The communication test formed part of a broader mission that included commercial sensor demonstrations aboard Vigoride-7 under a SpaceWERX contract. Solstar announced the results of the wireless data exchange in October 2026. R5-S10 CubeSat Mission Background The R5-S10 is a 6U CubeSat developed under NASA’s Realizing Rapid Reduced-cost high Risk Research (R5) program. It launched on March 30, 2026, aboard SpaceX’s Transporter-16 rideshare mission from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California. The spacecraft was deployed from Vigoride-7 on September 17, 2026, and then operated as a free-flying inspection spacecraft. Its mission included capturing images of the orbital service vehicle to assess its condition and performance. The Wi-Fi demonstration was designed to test how spacecraft can exchange information locally without depending entirely on continuous communication with ground stations. Supporting Future Autonomous Space Missions Reliable wireless links between spacecraft could support autonomous satellite inspections, in-orbit servicing and repairs, and future spacecraft assembly. These operations require multiple vehicles to share information and coordinate activities with less intervention from ground controllers. The data collected during the R5-S10 mission is also being used to train artificial intelligence models intended to support future autonomous space missions. Solstar founder and CEO Brian Barnett said the technology helps spacecraft remain connected and deliver mission data to operators in near real time. Momentus CEO John Rood described the partnership as adding a communications capability that expands the possibilities for proximity operations. The demonstration also highlights the role of commercial companies in developing space communications infrastructure. Following the test, investment firm Encore Technologies Corp. highlighted its recent $1.16 million strategic investment in Solstar Space, citing the importance of commercial communication networks for future space operations.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 16:13:54
World
OKINAWA, Japan, — The U.S. military will ban Chinese automaker BYD's vehicles from Kadena Air Base in Okinawa, Japan, starting October 26, over concerns that their cameras, sensors and connected systems could collect sensitive military information. The restriction covers all BYD models, including privately owned cars, contractor vehicles, taxis and commercial delivery vans. The 18th Security Forces Squadron will stop BYD vehicles at every gate and direct them to turn around, with no planned exceptions. Kadena spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Alli Stormer said the vehicles present an “unacceptable and unmitigable risk to our personnel and our mission.” She did not disclose specific technical details behind the decision. BYD did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Security Concerns Over Connected Vehicles Modern electric vehicles use cameras, sensors and connected software to map their surroundings and support driver-assistance features. Some systems can transmit collected data to external servers, raising concerns that vehicles entering military installations could capture facility layouts, aircraft movements, troop activities and operational patterns. Kadena is one of the largest U.S. Air Force bases in the Indo-Pacific. It hosts the 18th Wing, part of the Fifth Air Force, which operates fighter, aerial refueling and surveillance aircraft. The base is located on Okinawa, near the East China Sea. Similar Restrictions and Security Incidents During Exercise Hovedstad near Oslo Airport in Norway, from September 14 to 18, Norwegian Armed Forces personnel discovered that rented Deepal vehicles manufactured by China's state-owned Changan had recorded soldiers, their movements and access codes entered at military gates. The vehicles were supplied by Hertz Norge, which has indirect ownership ties to China's Geely group. Due to limited alternative transport, soldiers continued using them until the exercise ended and manually deleted stored footage. Hertz Norge subsequently stated that customer data is not shared with manufacturers or third parties without appropriate legal grounds. The Polish military and Israel Defense Forces have also restricted Chinese-made vehicles at certain military facilities over data-collection concerns. In 2018, the Pentagon directed base exchanges worldwide to stop selling Huawei and ZTE smartphones. In June 2026, the U.S. Department of Defense added BYD, NIO, Baidu and other Chinese companies to its list of entities it believes support China's military. Inclusion on the list does not automatically prohibit the use of their products. China has also imposed similar restrictions on foreign vehicles. In 2021, Beijing barred Tesla vehicles from certain government and military compounds over camera-security concerns. The restrictions were lifted in 2024 after Tesla met domestic data-security requirements, according to reports. Potential Impact Across East Asia BYD has been expanding its presence in Japan, opening dealerships and introducing models designed for the local market. In July 2026, it launched the Racco electric minicar in Japan, targeting a market dominated by domestic automakers. The Kadena restriction could prompt consideration of similar measures at other U.S. military installations in East Asia, including Marine Corps Air Station Futenma and U.S. Forces Korea bases. However, no wider ban has been confirmed, and U.S. Forces Korea stated that it had not changed its vehicle access policies. The United States has approximately 50,000 troops stationed in Japan and another 39,000 in South Korea, making vehicle access and connected-technology security relevant to military installations across the region. Main Source : Kangnamtimes / Defence-blog
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 16:04:56
World
NETANYA, Israel, — Israeli defense technology company Silynxcom Ltd. is developing an AI-powered wearable drone detection system that identifies incoming drones by their acoustic signatures and provides early warnings to individual soldiers. The company announced the project as it expands into the counter-uncrewed aircraft systems (C-UAS) market. The prototype uses onboard artificial intelligence to analyze sounds produced by drone motors and rotors in real time. When the system recognizes a potential drone threat, it automatically alerts the wearer. Unlike conventional radio-frequency (RF) detection systems, the technology relies on sound, allowing it to potentially identify drones that do not emit detectable control signals. This capability is particularly relevant against fiber-optic-guided first-person-view (FPV) drones, which use physical cables instead of radio-frequency links for operator control and can therefore evade conventional RF-based detection systems. Builds on Existing Tactical Headsets The new system builds on Silynxcom’s existing tactical communication equipment, including its CLARUS II in-ear headset. The company's earlier drone-detection feature amplifies specific frequencies associated with drone motors and rotors, helping soldiers distinguish these sounds from battlefield noise while protecting their hearing from hazardous and sudden loud sounds. The new AI platform advances this approach by automatically recognizing potential drone signatures and issuing alerts instead of relying primarily on the soldier’s ability to hear and identify the sounds. Mesh Network to Share Drone Alerts Silynxcom is developing a mesh-networking capability that would connect wearable devices across a military unit. An alert generated by one soldier’s device could be shared with other connected personnel, including members of a platoon, improving shared situational awareness. The network is designed to operate independently of existing tactical communications infrastructure, while retaining the option to integrate with standard military radio systems when required. The company is developing the platform as a standalone product. Development Status and Company Plans Silynxcom is establishing a dedicated counter-drone development team comprising professionals recently recruited from leading Israeli drone manufacturers. The initiative expands the company's activities beyond its established range of ruggedized tactical headsets, hearing-protection systems and military communication equipment. Chief Executive Officer Nir Klein said conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East have increased the need for drone-warning systems that accompany individual soldiers, particularly troops operating away from fixed-site air defenses. The company's approach aims to turn a warning detected by one soldier into shared awareness across a connected unit. The system remains at the prototype stage. Silynxcom has not disclosed its maximum detection range, accuracy rates, performance under operational conditions or expected deployment timeline. The company also cited market projections indicating growth in the broader counter-drone detection and interdiction sector. According to the supplied market estimate, the global market is projected to grow from $3.88 billion in 2026 to $16.45 billion by 2034. Silynxcom is listed on the NYSE American under the ticker SYNX.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 15:51:16
India
CHENNAI, — Waterfly Technologies, an IIT Madras-incubated startup, plans to conduct the first ocean trial of its autonomous electric Wing-in-Ground (WIG) craft, Hummingbird, by the end of December 2026. The trial will take place along the Chennai-Puducherry coastline to assess the craft's performance in open-sea conditions. Co-founder Keshav Kumar Choudhary said the company will use the existing 300 kg prototype previously tested at Kaveripakkam Lake in Tamil Nadu's Ranipet district. Waterfly unveiled Hummingbird in Chennai on October 11, 2026, in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who congratulated the team and expressed hope that the craft would soon operate over the ocean. Hummingbird Specifications and Technology Hummingbird is an all-electric, sea-skimming craft that uses the ground effect, in which flying close to the water surface reduces induced drag and improves aerodynamic efficiency compared with conventional flight at higher altitudes. The craft has a maximum take-off weight of 300 kg, a 150 kg cargo payload capacity, a targeted range of 300 km on a single charge and a cruising speed of 150 km/h. Earlier lake tests took place at around 1.5 metres above the water, while related design concepts target operating heights of 2–5 metres. Development began with a 30 kg prototype. The team spent approximately six months building and testing it to understand water take-off and the transition into flight, followed by another six months scaling the design to 300 kg. Commercial Plans and Future Development Waterfly initially targets coastal and island cargo routes, including logistics support for offshore oil fields. The company estimates charging stops of around 15 minutes and is exploring ships equipped with solar panels and batteries as at-sea charging stations. Its target operating cost is below Rs 10 per tonne-kilometre. The startup plans a larger version capable of carrying one standard 20-foot shipping container, with Southeast Asia as an early target market. Longer-term plans include routes across the Pacific, Arctic and Atlantic oceans. Waterfly has also outlined a future 3,000-tonne hydrogen-electric WIG craft for intercontinental freight. Its stated ambition is to transport cargo between any two coastal cities worldwide within a day for less than $500. These remain long-term objectives. Founded in 2024–2025, Waterfly Technologies was established by Harish Rajesh, CEO and co-founder and an IIT Madras alumnus, along with Keshav Kumar Choudhary and Harshin N. The company is incubated at IIT Madras, is associated with the IIT Madras Research Park, has reportedly raised around $250,000 in seed funding and has established manufacturing capacity in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu. Defence Applications and WIG Development Wing-in-ground technology has been explored for decades. The Soviet Union developed large ekranoplans during the Cold War, while Boeing proposed the Pelican heavy-transport concept. In the United States, DARPA's Liberty Lifter programme studied a heavy-lift seaplane designed to operate using ground effect. The programme concluded in June 2025 after simulations and materials testing demonstrated feasibility. DARPA did not proceed with a full-scale demonstrator and instead planned to transfer technical findings to industry and defence partners. Hummingbird could have potential applications in maritime logistics, coastal transport and suitable defence roles for the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard. Its payload and speed may offer advantages for certain missions, while armed applications remain a possibility rather than a confirmed capability. In 2023, the defence innovation initiative iDEX recognised Micronel Global's Zebra unmanned seaplane as a winner. However, its current status remains unclear, and unlike Hummingbird, it does not use ground-effect technology. The immediate priority is the December 2026 ocean trial, which will help Waterfly assess the craft in real maritime conditions and determine the next steps towards commercial operations.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 15:46:22
World
ANTALYA, Türkiye, — The Turkish Naval Forces have deployed HAVELSAN’s Barkan unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) during amphibious raid and urban warfare training in the ongoing TURNAs-2026 exercise, using the robotic vehicle to support troop landings and evacuate simulated wounded personnel. The exercise is taking place in the Gulf of Antalya and the eastern Mediterranean from October 19 to 27, 2026. It focuses on coordinating crewed military platforms with unmanned aerial, surface, underwater and ground systems. During simulated landing operations, the Barkan moved alongside naval infantry during the initial raid and subsequent urban combat phases. After the simulated fighting ended, the vehicle transported wounded personnel to safety. Exercise imagery also showed the vehicle carrying a stretcher near a landing craft. TURNAs-2026 Involves Multiple Unmanned Systems According to figures reported by Anadolu Agency, citing Türkiye’s Ministry of National Defense, the exercise involves 18 ships, 11 aircraft, nine unmanned aerial vehicles, seven unmanned underwater vehicles and nine unmanned surface vessels. A total of 41 systems from 17 Turkish defense companies are participating. The crewed assets include an amphibious ship, frigates, corvettes, fast attack craft, a submarine, a mine hunter, landing ships and SH-70 helicopters. These are operating alongside unmanned surface vessels, one-way attack boats and Coast Guard vessels. The Ministry of National Defense has also reported successful unmanned reconnaissance and surveillance in the amphibious target area, suppression of simulated coastal defenses, and amphibious raids combined with urban combat. Exercise imagery identified TCG Anadolu and showed the Barkan transferring a simulated casualty into a landing craft. HAVELSAN-Yonca-built Sancar unmanned surface vessels, including a configuration fitted with a towed sonar, were also seen during the drills. Barkan UGV Designed for Multiple Missions Developed by Ankara-based defence company HAVELSAN, the Barkan is a medium-class, wheeled unmanned ground vehicle designed to support military personnel in high-risk operations. It was developed under the company’s Digital Troops concept, which aims to connect unmanned ground, aerial and naval platforms so they can share information and perform coordinated tasks. The Barkan has a modular design that allows different equipment to be fitted for missions such as reconnaissance, surveillance, casualty evacuation, bomb disposal and battle damage assessment. HAVELSAN lists weapon systems, robotic arms, rescue equipment and swarm capabilities among the platform’s available functions. The Barkan family entered the Turkish Armed Forces inventory in 2023 and moved into mass production in 2025 following a decision by Türkiye’s Presidency of Defense Industries. In May 2026, HAVELSAN unveiled the Barkan 3 configuration at SAHA Expo in Istanbul under a contract amendment with the Presidency of Defense Industries. The new version is intended to support coordinated operations with unmanned aerial vehicles and surface vessels. Unmanned Ground Vehicles in Amphibious Operations The deployment comes as militaries explore ways to use unmanned ground vehicles for landing operations and frontline resupply. Ukraine has reported using unmanned boats to deliver ground robots to combat areas and employing an amphibious unmanned ground vehicle to transport supplies across land and water. In July 2026, Ukraine’s 123rd Separate Territorial Defense Brigade used an unmanned surface vessel to land an armed ground robot on the Russian-occupied Kinburn Spit. In late September, Ukraine’s 93rd Separate Mechanized Brigade also conducted a frontline supply mission using the domestically developed Triton amphibious unmanned ground vehicle, which covered more than 40 kilometers across land and water, according to the supplied information. The TURNAs-2026 exercise is scheduled to conclude on October 27. No detailed results of the Barkan’s performance during the exercise have been released.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 15:39:50
U.S
CALIFORNIA, — U.S. defense company Zone 5 Technologies has demonstrated a ground-launched version of its AGM-188A Rusty Dagger cruise missile, introducing a new configuration designated Block 40. The upgraded variant adds ground and sea launch capabilities to a missile previously designed primarily for aircraft deployment. The new configuration was revealed through images shared with defense publication The War Zone on October 22. The missile was developed under the U.S. Air Force’s Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) program, which focuses on affordable, mass-producible cruise missiles, initially to meet Ukraine’s requirements. Block 40 Adds Ground and Sea Launch Capabilities The main change in the Block 40 configuration is the addition of a solid-fuel rocket booster at the rear of the missile. This allows it to launch from ground-based and sea-based platforms while retaining its ability to be deployed from aircraft. Zone 5 has confirmed that the missile is certified for four fighter types, including the F-16. It can also be launched from special pallets carried by military transport aircraft. The upgraded missile can carry warheads weighing 100 to 250 pounds (approximately 45 to 113 kg), compared with the previously stated maximum of about 45 kg. Visible changes include more rounded tail stabilizers, while further design modifications have not been publicly detailed. An autonomous visual navigation system was previously announced for the Rusty Dagger, but its integration into the earlier Block 20 version was not confirmed. It remains unclear whether Block 40 introduces this capability. Range Depends on Launch Conditions The AGM-188A Rusty Dagger has a reported maximum range of approximately 930 kilometers under favorable conditions, including a high-speed, high-altitude aircraft launch and a lighter warhead. For low-altitude aerial launches, the previously reported range is up to 300 nautical miles, or approximately 555 kilometers. The ground-launched Block 40 is expected to have a shorter range than the maximum air-launched configuration because it must use its booster to reach cruising conditions. However, the company has not released exact range figures for the new variant. Ukraine Deployment and Production Expansion The Rusty Dagger was developed under the ERAM program primarily to meet Ukraine’s needs. Deliveries under the program were scheduled to begin in October 2026, although the extent of completed deliveries has not been confirmed. Russian forces have reportedly recovered debris matching the missile following precision strikes in Ukraine. Zone 5 has acknowledged the weapon’s deployment and stated that the Rusty Dagger is the only publicly reported operational missile of its class in service with Ukrainian forces. Zone 5 says it developed the surface-launch configuration in less than three months, moving from design to demonstration. The company has also confirmed that versions of the missile have been selected for separate U.S. Army and U.S. Navy programs focused on affordable strike weapons. Production is expanding at facilities in California and Texas, with additional capacity planned in Ohio. Each facility is designed to support annual production of more than 2,500 missiles by the end of 2027, according to the company. The Block 40 demonstration expands the Rusty Dagger’s launch options beyond aircraft, potentially allowing the missile to be deployed from land and sea platforms. Further details about testing, performance and future deliveries of the new configuration have not been publicly disclosed.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 13:57:14
U.S
SAN DIEGO, — The U.S. Navy’s Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) has become the first destroyer to enter Phase Two of the DDG MOD 2.0 modernization program. The work is being carried out at a General Dynamics NASSCO drydock in San Diego following the ship’s eight-and-a-half-month deployment to the Middle East and Pacific. The modernization includes Raytheon’s AN/SPY-6(V)4 radar and Lockheed Martin’s Aegis Combat System Baseline 10. The radar will replace the ship’s existing AN/SPY-1D(V) system, improving its ability to detect and track air and surface threats while supporting air and ballistic missile defense. The work is covered by a $149.6 million contract awarded to General Dynamics NASSCO and is scheduled for completion by September 2028. SPY-6 Radar and Cooling System Upgrades The AN/SPY-6(V)4 radar uses four fixed array faces, each containing 24 Radar Modular Assemblies, for a total of 96 modules. Designed for Flight IIA destroyers, the configuration is intended to operate within their existing power capacity and provide 360-degree situational awareness. Combined with Aegis Baseline 10, the radar is designed to improve the ship’s ability to respond to multiple threats, including ballistic, hypersonic and cruise missiles, as well as other airborne and surface threats. The modernization also includes the Navy’s High Efficiency Super-Capacity (HESC) air conditioning plants to support the increased cooling requirements of the upgraded systems. USS Pinckney is reported to be the first U.S. Navy ship to receive both the SPY-6(V)4 radar and HESC plants. Raytheon began manufacturing radar modules for Pinckney in early 2024. In August 2026, a test array was installed at the Navy’s Surface Combat Systems Center on Wallops Island, Virginia, for shore-based integration and testing before installation aboard the ship. Capt. Tim Moore, program manager for DDG MOD 2.0, said the modernization would equip Pinckney with an integrated sensor suite designed to support U.S. maritime superiority for decades. DDG MOD 2.0 Upgrade Program The DDG MOD 2.0 program is a major mid-life modernization effort for selected Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, intended to bring Flight IIA ships closer to the capabilities of newer Flight III vessels. The broader effort covers approximately 20 ships, with an estimated total cost of $17 billion. During Phase One, four destroyers received the SLQ-32(V)7 Surface Electronic Warfare Improvement Program (SEWIP) Block III electronic warfare suite. USS Pinckney completed this work first, followed by USS Chung-Hoon (DDG 93), USS James E. Williams (DDG 95) and USS Halsey (DDG 97). The initial work also included modifications to accommodate the electronic warfare arrays. These four destroyers form an initial group for evaluating the modernization process. The Navy plans to combine electronic warfare and radar upgrades into a single shipyard period for future ships to reduce the time they spend out of service. USS Sterett (DDG 104) is expected to be among the first destroyers to receive the combined upgrades. Supporting Fleet Operations USS Pinckney returned from its deployment on August 9, 2026, after operating in the Middle East and Pacific since late November 2025. According to the Navy, the destroyer validated several advanced warfare capabilities in operational environments during the deployment. The upgrades come as U.S. Navy destroyers face growing demands in the Indo-Pacific and Middle East, where they help protect carrier strike groups, commercial shipping and allied assets against increasingly capable missile and drone threats. The installation of the SPY-6 radar, Aegis Baseline 10 and upgraded cooling systems is intended to strengthen the ship’s detection and combat capabilities. The experience gained from USS Pinckney and the other initial ships will also help the Navy improve the efficiency of future modernization work across its destroyer fleet.
Read More → Posted on 2026-10-24 13:54:34Search
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