U.S 

BALTIMORE — Anduril Industries is in advanced negotiations to establish a major manufacturing and testing facility for unmanned surface vessels (USVs) at Maryland's historic Sparrows Point industrial site, a move that would significantly expand the company's autonomous maritime production capacity if the agreement is finalized. The Southern California-based defense technology company has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the operators of the 3,300-acre Tradepoint Atlantic industrial complex in Baltimore County. The site, formerly operated by Bethlehem Steel, includes a deep-water port and has a long history of steel production and shipbuilding. The proposed investment could reach the hundreds of millions of dollars, with plans to convert part of the site into a manufacturing and testing hub for autonomous military boats. However, negotiations are still underway, no lease has been signed, and the project could still be abandoned if a final agreement is not reached. Maryland Governor Wes Moore's office has participated in the discussions, and any completed agreement is expected to include state incentives.   Strategic Location for Naval Production Sparrows Point offers several logistical advantages for defense manufacturing. Located near Washington, D.C., the site is also close to the U.S. Coast Guard's largest shipyard at Curtis Bay, allowing easier testing of new vessels and smoother integration with existing military fleets. The deep-water port further supports manufacturing, sea trials, and transportation of completed vessels.   Growing Demand for Autonomous Surface Vessels The proposed facility comes as the U.S. Department of Defense continues expanding the use of uncrewed systems across naval operations. Recent military operations have increased demand for autonomous platforms that can perform surveillance, reconnaissance, logistics, and other missions while reducing risks to personnel. Defense planners have also emphasized deploying larger numbers of lower-cost autonomous systems as militaries increasingly face inexpensive drones that often require much more expensive interceptor missiles to defeat.   Operational Use Highlights Expanding Role Autonomous surface vessels have already demonstrated their operational value in recent missions. In June 2026, a 24-foot autonomous Corsair unmanned surface vessel built by Saronic Technologies successfully located and rescued two U.S. Army Apache helicopter crew members after their aircraft was shot down near the Strait of Hormuz. The mission marked a notable example of an autonomous vessel conducting a personnel recovery operation without placing additional crews at risk. The same class of vessels was later used during operations against Iranian shipping and submarine infrastructure at Bandar Abbas Naval Base in July 2026, marking the first reported combat use of U.S. unmanned surface vessels. Although surveillance remains their primary mission, these operations demonstrated their expanding operational roles.   Anduril Expanding Manufacturing Capacity The Sparrows Point project aligns with Anduril's broader effort to increase defense production. The company completed a $5 billion Series H funding round in May 2026, led by Thrive Capital and Andreessen Horowitz, valuing the company at $61 billion. Following the investment, Anduril announced plans to roughly double its weapons production capacity. The company has also expanded its autonomous maritime programs through partnerships in the United Kingdom and with South Korea's HD Hyundai Heavy Industries to develop and produce autonomous surface vessels. In addition to surface systems, Anduril manufactures autonomous underwater vehicles, including the Dive-LD and Ghost Shark. Future U.S. production is also planned at American shipyards, including a facility at the former Foss Shipyard in Seattle, where the company has already invested.   Technology Still Faces Reliability Challenges Despite increasing investment and growing military interest, autonomous maritime technology continues to face technical hurdles. During testing, unmanned vessels have reportedly misidentified objects, crashed, stalled, or drifted off course. The U.S. Navy is also working to improve the reliability of autonomous piloting software for operations in unpredictable open-water environments. In one May 2025 exercise off the California coast, more than a dozen Anduril drone boats operating with the company's Lattice software failed to complete their assigned missions and instead entered a fail-safe idle mode.   Historic Industrial Site Could Gain New Role Sparrows Point has long been one of America's most important industrial locations. The property was once home to one of the world's largest steel mills and an active shipyard that produced merchant vessels and warships during both World Wars under Bethlehem Steel. Today, Tradepoint Atlantic is redeveloping the site as a modern industrial and logistics center. If the negotiations are successfully completed, the Anduril project would represent another example of the U.S. defense industry repurposing historic industrial facilities to expand domestic production of autonomous maritime systems.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 16:27:00
 U.S 

EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. — Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School (TPS) have completed a flight test campaign demonstrating an artificial intelligence (AI) agent directly controlling a fighter aircraft during live intercept missions using operational onboard sensor data. During the campaign, the U.S. Air Force's X-62 Variable In-flight Simulation Test Aircraft (VISTA) completed 27 AI-controlled intercepts against a live T-38 target aircraft across eight flights. The tests demonstrated the AI system's ability to receive live sensor information, make tactical decisions, and control the aircraft during real-world intercept maneuvers without relying on simulated target data.   AI Demonstrates Real-Time Sensor-to-Action Capability The X-62, a heavily modified F-16 used for advanced flight research and autonomy testing at Edwards Air Force Base, was equipped with Lockheed Martin's Legion Pod, an operational infrared search-and-track (IRST) sensor. During each intercept, the Legion Pod continuously tracked the T-38 target aircraft and securely transmitted live targeting data to the onboard AI agent. Using only this real-time sensor information, the AI autonomously controlled the X-62 and maneuvered the aircraft into tactical intercept positions. The flight tests successfully connected target detection, autonomous decision-making, and aircraft control in real time, completing what engineers describe as the "sensor-to-action loop." According to Lockheed Martin, the campaign marked the transition from AI operating with simulated target information to using live data from an operational onboard sensor during flight.   Three-Month Development and Integration Lockheed Martin said the project validated the complete software development process, including AI development, simulation, training, integration, ground testing, and live flight operations. The company completed AI-agent integration and all required ground testing within three months using its proprietary "Supermassive" AI agent generation capability, which is designed to accelerate software development and system integration. The successful campaign also expands the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School's work in integrating mission-critical onboard AI and operational autonomy into advanced flight testing.   Company Officials Highlight Operational Benefits Ron Fehlen, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Skunk Works, said the latest flight series demonstrated the AI's ability to operate on an operational combat aircraft using live sensor data. "Our ongoing partnership with TPS is driving important progress with this latest flight test series demonstrating that our AI can effectively and reliably close the sensor to action loop aboard an operational combat aircraft. Our autonomous agents consumed classified infrared search and track feeds and executed combat-critical maneuvers in real time. This achievement marks a decisive advance toward delivering AI augmented air dominance for the United States." Stacy Kubicek, vice president and general manager of Lockheed Martin Sensors and Global Sustainment, said reliable sensor data becomes more valuable when it is directly connected to AI systems capable of taking action. "Our ability to provide reliable sensor data is critical, but the real advantage comes when that data can connect seamlessly with AI to take action. This project demonstrates how sensing and autonomous AI can come together as a force multiplier to make faster, more informed action in complex environments." Lockheed Martin added that allowing AI to perform complex tracking and maneuvering tasks gives pilots more time to focus on broader tactical awareness, improving effectiveness and survivability during complex operations.   Future Mission Systems Upgrade Planned Building on the successful completion of the 27 AI-controlled intercepts, Lockheed Martin plans to carry out a Mission Systems Upgrade for the X-62. According to the company, the future architecture will integrate advanced combat systems, sensors, and airborne AI agents within a next-generation mesh communications network. The upgrade is intended to support future uncrewed and AI-assisted fighter operations.   X-62 Continues to Support Advanced Flight Research Skunk Works has supported the X-62 program for decades through its open hardware and software architecture, allowing the aircraft to serve as a flexible platform for testing new technologies. Originally designated NF-16D before being redesignated X-62A, the aircraft has been used for variable-stability flight research and, more recently, for autonomy and artificial intelligence flight testing, including earlier work under the DARPA Air Combat Evolution (ACE) program. The latest flight campaign further expands the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School's experience in testing onboard AI and autonomous flight technologies using operational aircraft and live sensor data. The results of the flight test campaign were announced on August 4, 2026.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 16:18:48
 Europe 

LONDON — The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) has awarded BAE Systems a £135 million contract to maintain and repair the Royal Navy's torpedo inventory under the Torpedo Repair and Maintenance (TRAM) programme. The three-year agreement will run from July 2026 to June 2029, ensuring the continued availability of two of the Royal Navy's primary torpedo systems. The funding forms part of the UK government's £298 billion Defence Investment Plan, which outlines defence investment over the next four years.   Contract Covers Spearfish and Sting Ray Torpedoes The TRAM contract includes maintenance and repair support for the Spearfish heavyweight torpedo and the Sting Ray lightweight torpedo, both of which are key elements of the Royal Navy's underwater warfare capability. The Spearfish heavyweight torpedo is carried by the Royal Navy's Astute-class attack submarines and Vanguard-class ballistic missile submarines. It serves as the fleet's primary heavyweight torpedo. The Sting Ray lightweight torpedo is designed for anti-submarine warfare and is deployed from submarines, surface warships and maritime patrol aircraft. It is currently used on Type 23 frigates, will also equip the future Type 26 frigates, and is launched from Merlin HM2 and Wildcat helicopters, as well as maritime patrol aircraft including the P-8A Poseidon.   Sole-Source Award Based on Design Authority The Ministry of Defence awarded the contract to BAE Systems without a competitive tender. According to a contract award notice published in late July, the sole-source award was approved because BAE Systems is the original Design Authority for both the Spearfish and Sting Ray torpedoes. The MOD stated that no other supplier has the necessary expertise, technical knowledge and infrastructure to provide the required support without creating unacceptable risks to safety and system performance.   Contract Supports More Than 300 UK Jobs The agreement will support approximately 315 jobs across the United Kingdom. This includes 150 highly skilled engineering and technician positions within BAE Systems, with around 100 jobs based in Portsmouth and 50 across Edinburgh, Chelmsford and sites near Glasgow. The contract will also sustain an additional 165 jobs throughout the company's UK supply chain. UK Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard said the agreement supports both national security and the domestic defence industry. "This is defence spending doing exactly what it should – keeping our country safe while securing 315 skilled jobs and creating new opportunities across our country. We are proud to be backing British jobs, British skills and British industry."   Officials Highlight Operational Importance Scott Jamieson, Managing Director of BAE Systems' Maritime and Land Defence Solutions, said the company has maintained high levels of torpedo availability for the UK Armed Forces since 2019. "Since 2019 we have delivered consistently high levels of torpedo availability for the UK Armed Forces, supporting both the successful entry into service of Spearfish and the ongoing operational readiness of Sting Ray. As a trusted partner to UK Defence, we are proud to underpin the nation's Continuous At Sea Deterrent and anti-submarine warfare capability through exceptional reliability, availability and performance." Rear Admiral Matt Stratton, Royal Navy Director of Naval Acquisition, said the extension ensures uninterrupted torpedo support for the fleet. "This contract extension ensures the Royal Navy retains a safe, reliable and continuous torpedo support capability. It is a critical enabler of our operational readiness and directly supports the UK's Continuous At Sea Deterrent." Richard Murray, Director Lethality and Protect at the National Armaments Director Group – Materiel, said the extension secures continued reliable support for the UK's torpedo capability and reflects close cooperation between the Royal Navy, the National Armaments Director Group and industry.   Bridge to the WHITEHEAD2 Programme Defence officials described the TRAM agreement as a transitional contract that will bridge current torpedo maintenance operations to the long-term WHITEHEAD2 programme. Scheduled to begin in 2029, WHITEHEAD2 is intended to deliver a modernised and comprehensive torpedo support solution for the Royal Navy while ensuring long-term support for its underwater weapons capability.   Part of Wider UK Naval Investment The torpedo maintenance agreement follows another major contract awarded to BAE Systems in late July. On 29–30 July 2026, the UK government awarded the company a £5.9 billion contract for the next phase of work on the Dreadnought-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarines. The Dreadnought class is being developed to replace the Royal Navy's Vanguard-class submarines in the early 2030s and will continue supporting the UK's Continuous At Sea Deterrent.   Maintaining Fleet Readiness The new TRAM agreement will keep the Royal Navy's existing torpedo inventory maintained and serviceable through June 2029, ensuring continued support for submarine, surface fleet and maritime aviation operations while preparations continue for the transition to the WHITEHEAD2 programme.    

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 16:14:17
 U.S 

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

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 16:04:48
 U.S 

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

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 14:00:42
 India 

BENGALURU — Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has achieved a new development milestone in its indigenous HTFE-25 (Hindustan Turbo Fan Engine) programme, with the engine's core successfully reaching 99.5% of its maximum speed during acceleration trials. The achievement marks further progress in the development of India's 25 kN thrust-class turbofan engine, which is being designed for military and civil aviation applications. According to HAL's latest Directors' Report, the company has so far built two core engines and one full-engine technology demonstrator under the programme. The core engine has completed light-up, acceleration, and speed trials up to 99.5%, while additional development trials are continuing. The HTFE-25 is a low-bypass turbofan engine being designed and developed by HAL's Aero Engine Research and Design Centre (AERDC) in Bengaluru. The engine is intended to power basic and advanced military trainer aircraft, small business jets, and large unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). HAL states that the engine can be used in two different aircraft configurations. In a single-engine configuration, it is designed for aircraft in the 5-ton weight class, while a twin-engine configuration is intended for aircraft weighing up to the 9-ton class. The HTFE-25 has a length of 1,730 mm, a diameter of 590 mm, and a dry weight of approximately 350 kg. It is designed to produce 25 kN of dry thrust and features a bypass ratio of 0.5, an air mass flow of 43 kg/s, and a thrust-to-weight ratio of around 7.27. As part of its development, HAL has incorporated 3D-printed Ti-6Al-4V components, a titanium alloy commonly used in aerospace applications because of its high strength and low weight. The engine programme has undergone several stages of testing since the first successful core engine run on December 14, 2015. Development activities have included sea-level performance trials, cold-weather starting tests, and hot-weather high-altitude trials at Leh. HAL has also built and successfully operated a full-engine technology demonstrator. Earlier acceleration trials had reached about 55% of the engine's rated speed. The latest achievement of 99.5% speed represents a significant advance in the core engine evaluation process. HAL stated that sea-level performance trials on the core engine have also been completed satisfactorily, while further testing remains in progress. The company has also explored afterburner integration, with basic afterburner tests conducted during earlier stages of development. HAL estimates the potential market for the HTFE-25 at 200 to 250 engines, based on its technical feasibility assessment. The programme is supported by a dedicated design and testing facility at AERDC, inaugurated in late 2023, which includes specialised test beds for accelerated engine development and evaluation. The HTFE-25 programme is part of HAL's wider indigenous aero-engine development efforts, alongside projects such as the HTSE-1200 turboshaft engine. According to HAL, development and certification work on the HTFE-25 is continuing. Based on the company's latest updates, flight-worthiness testing and final certification are currently targeted within the next four to five years. The successful progress of the HTFE-25 programme is expected to strengthen India's indigenous aero-engine development capability and provide a domestically developed propulsion option in the 25 kN thrust class for future aviation platforms.    

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 13:46:37
 U.S 

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

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 13:35:09
 World 

MOSCOW — Specialists at JSC All-Russian Research Institute "Signal" (VNII Signal) have patented a remote-control attachment for portable anti-tank missile systems (ATGMs), allowing operators to aim and fire missiles from a distance without making permanent modifications to the standard launcher. The patented system is designed as a removable attachment that can be installed quickly in the field. According to the patent, all major components are secured using adjustable fasteners, enabling rapid assembly and disassembly. This approach allows operators to switch back to the launcher's standard manual operation whenever required.   Remote-Control Operation The attachment enables full remote control of the launcher through an operator's console. The system includes: Electric drives for horizontal and vertical guidance A trigger mechanism drive A video camera A command processing unit A module for remotely switching optical sight magnification An operator's control console During operation, the image from the launcher's optical sight is transmitted to the operator's console in real time. From the control panel, the operator can aim the launcher, adjust the optical magnification, and launch the missile while remaining at a safer distance from the firing position. Commands to the guidance drives and other actuators are transmitted through either wired connections or encrypted radio communication channels.   Modular Design According to the patent, the system is intended to solve a key technical challenge of providing remote launcher operation without altering the original structure of the weapon. Unlike systems that require permanent modifications, the new device functions as a quick-install attachment. Once removed, the launcher can immediately return to its conventional manual operating mode. The developers said earlier technical solutions either required extensive modifications to the launcher or did not allow operators to quickly switch back to manual control. The new design addresses both of these limitations through its removable and modular configuration.   Production Status The developers stated that the patented remote-control device has already been incorporated into one of the mass-produced products, indicating that the technology is being integrated into serial production.   Comparison With Existing Systems The operational concept is similar to the Ukrainian Stugna-P, also known as Skif, which has long featured a remote-control panel connected by cable, allowing operators to control the launcher from a protected position. The newly patented Russian system provides comparable remote-operation capability through an attachable kit that does not require permanent modifications to the launcher. The modular design also allows the attachment to be removed quickly, restoring standard manual operation when needed.   Focus on Operator Survivability The patent, reported in late July 2026, reflects efforts to improve operator survivability by allowing portable anti-tank missile launchers to be operated from a safer position while maintaining compatibility with existing launcher systems and avoiding the need to manufacture entirely new missile platforms.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 13:24:02
 World 

BUCHAREST, Romania — Turkish defense company ASELSAN has completed the integration of an extensive suite of Turkish-developed naval systems aboard the Romanian Naval Forces' newest warship, Contraamiral August Roman (pennant number 261). The program marks the first export of a warship built in Türkiye to a member of both NATO and the European Union, representing an important milestone for the Turkish defense industry. The vessel was originally built for the Turkish Navy as the Hisar-class patrol vessel Akhisar (P 1220) by ASFAT at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard. Romania acquired the ship through a government-to-government agreement signed in December 2025, with the contract valued at approximately €223 million. Ownership was transferred to Romania on June 16, 2026, and the ship was officially commissioned into the Romanian Naval Forces on June 20, 2026 after being renamed Contraamiral August Roman.   Integrated Turkish Naval Systems To meet the Romanian Navy's operational requirements, ASELSAN equipped the corvette with an integrated package of surveillance, fire-control, communications, navigation, and identification systems designed to improve the ship's operational and combat capabilities. The vessel's primary sensor suite includes the CENK 200 search and target-detection radar and the AKREP 100-N fire-control radar. For reconnaissance, surveillance, and targeting, the ship is fitted with the AHTAPOT 100 electro-optical system. For secure long-range communications, ASELSAN integrated the ACROSAT 3210M X-band satellite communications system, while the KARETTA 500 anti-jam system protects the vessel's satellite navigation signals from electronic interference. ASELSAN also reported that the ship carries several additional systems, including the ALPER LPI radar, TAKS naval gun fire-control system, ARTNET integrated communications system, IDENTA identification friend-or-foe (IFF) system, ACROSAT Ku-band satellite communications, ANS inertial navigation system, and the MİTOS electronic chart display and information system. According to the company, the integrated package was selected to strengthen the corvette's surveillance, communications, fire-control, and navigation capabilities.   From Turkish Navy Program to Romanian Service The warship was constructed under Türkiye's MILGEM program at the Istanbul Naval Shipyard. Construction began with the vessel being laid down on August 15, 2021, followed by its launch on September 23, 2023. The ship was handed over in December 2024, after which sea trials began. Although completed for the Turkish Navy, it was not placed into operational service. Romania moved to acquire the ready-built platform through a government-to-government agreement as part of its naval modernization efforts. Following the transfer of ownership on June 16, 2026, the vessel entered Romanian service as Contraamiral August Roman and was formally commissioned on June 20, 2026. It later arrived at the Port of Constanța on July 10, 2026.   Ship Specifications and Current Armament The Contraamiral August Roman displaces approximately 2,300 tonnes and measures 99.56 metres in length with a 14.42-metre beam. The vessel has a maximum speed of 24 knots, a range of 4,500 nautical miles, and an endurance of 21 days. It operates with a crew of around 104 personnel and is capable of supporting helicopter and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) operations. The corvette is currently armed with an MKE 76mm main gun, an ASELSAN GOKDENIZ close-in weapon system (CIWS), and remotely operated 12.7mm machine guns. The vessel has been assigned to the Romanian Navy's 50th Corvette Division.   Planned Capability Upgrades Romanian defense officials have described Contraamiral August Roman as the country's first modern warship. While the ship entered service with its initial combat configuration, Romania plans to allocate an additional €42 million during the second half of 2026 to procure further combat systems. According to Romanian plans, the future upgrades will include vertical launching systems (VLS) for air defense, torpedo capabilities, and the integration of Naval Strike Missiles (NSM) through funding provided under the European Union's SAFE program.   Strategic Importance for ASELSAN The delivery expands ASELSAN's role in Romania's naval modernization program and places the company's systems aboard a warship operated by a NATO and European Union member state. ASELSAN said the program strengthens its position in the international market for naval sensors, communications, navigation, and fire-control systems. The company added that the successful integration reflects growing international demand for its naval technologies and supports its expanding participation in allied fleet modernization programs.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 13:13:41
 U.S 

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

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 12:50:28
 World 

TEHRAN, Iran — Iran prepared retaliatory missile strikes against three locations in Ukraine following the July 25 attack on a vessel in the Caspian Sea, but suspended the planned operation after diplomatic communications with Kyiv, according to a senior Iranian official. General Mohsen Rezaei, an adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader, said during an appearance on Iranian state television that Iran's armed forces had completed preparations for the strikes. He stated that the operation was halted after Ukrainian officials reportedly said the attack on the Iranian vessel had been unintentional. "We were prepared to strike three locations in Ukraine, but after they said the attack had been a mistake, we put our response on hold to assess their claim," Rezaei said. He added that the retaliatory operation was ultimately called off. Rezaei did not identify the three intended targets or provide evidence supporting his claims. His statements have not been independently verified.   Caspian Sea Incident The planned response followed a military operation in the Caspian Sea on July 25, which has become the center of a dispute between Iran and Ukraine. Iran said Ukraine attacked an Iranian commercial vessel carrying civilian cargo, causing an explosion that killed one sailor and injured another. Tehran condemned the incident as a violation of international law and said attacks on Iranian citizens and interests were unacceptable. Ukraine presented a different account of the operation. President Volodymyr Zelensky and Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) confirmed that Ukrainian Defense Forces conducted long-range strikes in the Caspian Sea. According to the SBU, the operation targeted the Russian missile boat Molnyia along with two cargo ships, Port Olya 2 and Begey, which Ukraine said were operating under international sanctions. Ukraine stated that the vessels were transporting Iranian-made missile and drone components intended for Russian forces. Separate reports identified one of the ships involved as the Iranian-owned cargo vessel Ana. Kyiv maintained that its military operation targeted vessels involved in transporting military cargo rather than civilian shipping.   Diplomatic Contacts Followed the Incident Diplomatic efforts began soon after the July 25 operation. On July 28, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha spoke by telephone with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. According to Iranian officials, Araghchi formally protested the strike and told Ukraine that Iran expected compensation for the damage and casualties. Iranian officials also said Ukraine described the incident as unintentional during the diplomatic exchanges, which prompted Tehran to suspend its planned military response. Sybiha later described the call as a "frank conversation" and said Ukraine's military operations are conducted solely in defense against Russian aggression and are not intended to target civilian vessels or civilians. Ukraine has not publicly confirmed or denied the specific Iranian claim that it apologized or formally acknowledged the incident as a mistake beyond the statements made following the foreign ministers' discussion. Both sides indicated during the diplomatic contacts that they did not seek further escalation.   Missile Capability If Iran had decided to carry out the planned operation, several of its ballistic missile systems have the theoretical range to reach Ukrainian territory. According to the CSIS Missile Defense Project infographic published in March 2026, Iranian missile systems including the Sejjil, Emad, Ghadr-110, Shahab-3, and Khorramshahr-2 have the range to reach Ukraine. Such missiles would present a significant challenge for Ukraine's existing air defense network if employed. However, there is no independent confirmation that any missile operation was actually prepared beyond the statements made by General Rezaei.   Previous False Strike Claims This is not the first time reports of Iranian strikes on Ukraine have appeared publicly. In April 2026, Iranian propaganda outlets circulated videos claiming that Iran had launched missile strikes against Kyiv, Kharkiv, and Dnipro. The footage was later identified as AI-generated, and no such strikes occurred.   Wider Context The Caspian Sea has become an important transport route linking Iran and Russia. Analysts from the Armed Conflict Location & Event Data Project (ACLED) have noted that Ukraine has increasingly targeted Russian-linked maritime and oil infrastructure since May as part of efforts to disrupt Moscow's wartime logistics. The Caspian Sea shipping route has been identified as one of the supply corridors connecting Iran and Russia. Iran and Russia have also expanded military cooperation in recent years. Tehran has supplied technology and components used in the production of Shahed attack drones, which Russian forces continue to use in strikes against Ukraine. For now, Iran's reported plans to strike Ukraine remain based solely on statements made by General Mohsen Rezaei on Iranian state television. No independent evidence has been presented to confirm that preparations for such an operation were completed, and Ukrainian authorities have not publicly confirmed the specific Iranian account of the diplomatic exchanges.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 12:16:19
 Europe 

BAUTZEN, Germany — Czechoslovak Group (CSG) has acquired a 57-hectare industrial site in Gnaschwitz, Saxony, from chemical and explosives manufacturer MAXAM, marking another step in the company's strategy to strengthen Europe's defence supply chain and expand the production of critical energetic materials. The acquisition was completed through CSG Energetic Materials Germany GmbH, the group's German subsidiary. While the financial terms of the land purchase were not disclosed, CSG said it will invest more than €100 million during the first phase of development. The investment will establish production facilities for nitroglycerin and nitroglycerin-based products, which are key raw materials used in propellant charges for small-, medium-, and large-calibre ammunition. The site will also manufacture ammunition and ammunition components. According to the company, the project is expected to create up to 125 new jobs once the planned developments are fully operational.   Second Strategic Production Site in Germany The Gnaschwitz facility becomes CSG's second production site in Germany, following its acquisition of the MSM Walsrode plant in Bomlitz, Lower Saxony. That transaction involved the purchase of a nitrocellulose production facility and industrial park from U.S.-based International Flavors & Fragrances (IFF). The agreement was signed in October 2024 and completed in May 2025. At the Walsrode facility, CSG has been expanding production of industrial nitrocellulose, another essential material used in propellants, explosives and artillery ammunition. In June 2025, the company also announced plans to establish its own military-grade nitrocellulose production capacity within two years. Nitrocellulose has both civilian and military applications and, together with nitroglycerin, forms a critical part of the manufacturing process for propellants and explosives used in large-calibre artillery ammunition.   Building a Vertically Integrated Ammunition Supply Chain By bringing production of both nitrocellulose and nitroglycerin under its control, CSG is creating a vertically integrated production chain for large-calibre artillery ammunition. The company said this integrated manufacturing network will cover the complete production process, including energetic raw materials, explosives, propellant charges, shell bodies, and the final assembled ammunition. Nitroglycerin produced at the Gnaschwitz facility will supply both CSG's Medium & Large Calibre and Ammo+ divisions, as well as external customers.   Site Offers Capacity for Future Expansion The Gnaschwitz industrial site has a history in energetic materials production dating back to 1874. CSG said the site's existing infrastructure provides significant room for future expansion, including the possible production of medium-calibre ammunition, 120 mm mortar ammunition, and tank ammunition. Even after the current investment phase is completed, the company said substantial capacity will remain available for further development.   Expansion into the United States Alongside its investments in Europe, CSG is also expanding its manufacturing presence in the United States. The company plans to establish jet engine production for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) through Firecrest Aerospace, a joint venture created by CSG subsidiaries CSE USA and AviaNera Technologies, a Czech company specializing in compact, high-performance propulsion units for unmanned aviation. The U.S. project includes an initial investment of up to USD 15 million in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Assembly operations are expected to begin in the coming months, with larger-scale production planned for 2027.   Company Statement Commenting on the acquisition, Jan Marinov, CEO of CSG Defence Systems, said the Gnaschwitz investment strengthens the group's vertical integration while improving the security of supply for strategic energetic materials and supporting the resilience of the European defence industrial base. The combined investments in Germany and the United States reflect CSG's strategy to expand its manufacturing capabilities, strengthen production of critical energetic materials, and support ammunition manufacturing through an integrated industrial supply chain.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 12:05:56
 World 

SINGAPORE — The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN), in collaboration with the Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) and French company RTsys Underwater Technologies, has officially deployed several COMET-MCM autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) to strengthen mine countermeasure operations in the Singapore Strait. The COMET-MCM systems are designed to detect, locate and identify naval mines and other suspicious objects on the seabed during the early stages of mine countermeasure missions. The deployment adds an autonomous capability to the RSN's existing mine countermeasure approach while reducing risks to personnel operating in potentially hazardous waters.   Protecting One of the World's Busiest Shipping Routes The Singapore Strait is one of the world's busiest and most strategically important maritime routes. According to the announcement, nearly 150,000 ships pass through the strait each year, making it one of the most heavily used sea lanes for international trade. Any disruption caused by underwater threats such as naval mines could affect maritime traffic, regional shipping and trade across the Asia-Pacific. To strengthen maritime security, the RSN has introduced autonomous underwater technology that can carry out mine detection missions while reducing operator workload and limiting crew exposure to dangerous areas.   COMET-MCM Designed for Early Mine Detection The COMET-MCM vehicles form part of the RSN's mine countermeasure operations and are used during the initial phase of missions to detect, locate and identify objects on the seafloor before further investigation and neutralization. The systems were developed by RTsys Underwater Technologies in partnership with DSTA, which managed the integration of the vehicles to meet the Singapore Navy's operational requirements. The autonomous vehicles are manufactured at RTsys's factory in Lanester, Brittany, France.   Technical Capabilities The COMET-MCM is a two-man portable autonomous underwater vehicle measuring 1.9 meters in length, with a 150-millimeter hull diameter and weighing 35 kilograms. According to RTsys, the vehicle has a maximum operating depth of 300 meters and can reach speeds of up to 10 knots. It can operate for up to 20 hours at a cruising speed of 3 knots or approximately 7 hours at 7 knots. The system is equipped with a Klein high-resolution side-scan sonar and a low-light HD camera for underwater detection and identification missions. Its navigation suite includes GPS, inertial navigation, Doppler velocity log and Long Baseline (LBL) acoustic positioning, enabling accurate positioning while mapping large underwater areas. The COMET-MCM can operate either independently or as part of a coordinated fleet in swarm mode. Missions are preprogrammed before launch, allowing the vehicles to conduct autonomous operations while reducing operator workload, speeding reconnaissance and limiting the time crews spend in hazardous environments. During missions, the vehicles can transmit real-time tracking information to surface operators, complementing data collected by traditional minehunter sonar systems.   Supporting Complete Mine Countermeasure Operations Data gathered by the COMET-MCM supports the full sequence of mine countermeasure operations, including detection, classification, identification and neutralization. When a potential mine or underwater contact is detected, it can be further examined using remotely operated systems or Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) divers. The RSN also uses RTsys's SONADIVE handheld underwater navigation and sonar system to support divers during these missions. The system features a 12-inch display designed for underwater visibility, provides up to six hours of battery life, and allows divers to navigate accurately while communicating through an acoustic modem. It enables tactical data and text message exchanges with other divers and surface units at ranges of up to 2.2 kilometers.   Decade-Long Cooperation The deployment reflects more than a decade of cooperation between the Republic of Singapore Navy, DSTA and RTsys in the field of autonomous underwater robotics. Pierre-Alexandre Caux, Sales Director at RTsys Underwater Technologies, said the operational deployment demonstrates international recognition of the company's underwater robotics and acoustic technologies. "The COMET-MCM is the result of more than a decade of cooperation with navies worldwide. Its operational deployment by the Republic of Singapore Navy is further recognition of our expertise in underwater robotics and acoustics. It demonstrates our ability to meet the demanding requirements of the world's most advanced navies in tackling the challenges of mine warfare. Finally, the COMET-MCM highlights how technological innovation can enhance national operational sovereignty." The Republic of Singapore Navy also emphasized the importance of the new capability for safeguarding a major international shipping route. "The Singapore Strait is a vital artery for global trade. With the COMET-MCMs, we are enhancing our ability to detect and identify underwater threats with greater precision, efficiency, and safety for our crews." The operational deployment of the COMET-MCM autonomous underwater vehicles strengthens the RSN's mine countermeasure capabilities by adding autonomous underwater detection and identification systems to support existing mine warfare operations while improving efficiency and reducing risks to personnel.    

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 11:48:48
 World 

ANKARA / BAKU — Turkish defense technology company HAVELSAN has delivered selected critical capabilities of its Air Force Information Command and Control System (AICCS), also known as HvBS, to the Azerbaijani Air Force, marking another step in the growing defense cooperation between Türkiye and Azerbaijan in command and control technologies. The Air Force Information Command and Control System (AICCS) is designed to support the planning, execution, monitoring, and assessment of air operations through an integrated digital environment. By bringing key command and control functions into a unified digital architecture, the system enables air forces to manage operations more efficiently while improving coordination across operational headquarters.   Integrated Command and Control for Air Operations According to HAVELSAN, the delivered capabilities allow personnel at operational headquarters to work with a common operational picture, manage mission and operational data in real time, centrally monitor mission-critical information, and accelerate operational decision-making. The company said the integrated architecture improves the speed, accuracy, and effectiveness of operational planning, coordination, and mission execution. It also reduces operational preparation time from several hours to just a few minutes, allowing air forces to respond more quickly and maintain greater operational agility during mission planning and execution.   Battle Management and Resource Planning The AICCS architecture consists of two primary subsystems: the Battle Management System (BMS) and the Resources Management System (RMS). The Battle Management System (BMS) supports strategic, operational, and tactical command functions, while the Resources Management System (RMS) manages human resources, logistics, and financial activities. Together, these subsystems provide a comprehensive digital framework for managing air force operations. In addition to supporting operational planning and execution, the AICCS also supports intelligence and flight training processes. The system enables secure information exchange across different levels of command and allows operational plans to be adjusted in real time as mission conditions change.   Open and Modular Architecture A key feature of the AICCS is its open and modular design, allowing it to integrate with existing command and control infrastructures while providing flexibility for future expansion as operational requirements evolve. The modular architecture enables the system to be adapted without replacing existing infrastructure, supporting long-term capability development for users.   International Deployment HAVELSAN said the AICCS has already been exported to both Pakistan and Azerbaijan, reflecting the company's growing international presence in defense software and command and control technologies. The company also stated that the system has been examined by NATO and has successfully completed four of the six technical analysis and evaluation stages required under NATO's selection program, demonstrating its compatibility with demanding operational standards.   Expanding Türkiye–Azerbaijan Defense Cooperation The latest delivery represents another milestone in defense industrial cooperation between Türkiye and Azerbaijan, particularly in the areas of defense software and command and control systems. HAVELSAN said the deployment highlights the increasing international adoption of its indigenous engineering capabilities and mission-critical defense software for allied air forces. The company did not disclose the contract value or the exact scope of the delivered capabilities.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-04 11:40:35
 Europe 

LONDON — Diehl Defence and BAE Systems have expanded their cooperation to develop joint maritime defence solutions for the German market and international armed forces, following the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MoU) covering technical integration across both companies' defence portfolios. The collaboration will primarily focus on integrating Diehl Defence's 127 mm (5-inch) ammunition family with BAE Systems' Mk 45 naval gun. The companies are giving particular attention to the Mk 45 Mod 4 variant, which is intended for both German and international customers. Under the cooperation, the Mk 45 naval gun will be combined with Diehl Defence's high-precision, long-range 127 mm ammunition. BAE Systems is one of the world's major suppliers of 127 mm naval gun systems and provides defence, aerospace and security technologies. The Mk 45 is a widely used 5-inch naval gun system operated by several navies. The Mk 45 Mod 4 version features a longer 62-calibre barrel and is designed to support extended-range capabilities. In addition to naval gun integration, the companies will expand their cooperation in guided missile systems. Diehl Defence and BAE Systems will examine the potential integration of the IRIS-T missile family with BAE Systems' launching systems as part of the technical work covered by the agreement. Dr. Harald Buschek, Chief Program Officer at Diehl Defence, said the partnership is intended to deliver tailored maritime defence solutions by combining the strengths of both companies. "By working together to explore these technical synergies, we can develop customized solutions for our customers' complex maritime defence requirements. By combining our systems with BAE Systems' platforms, we can enhance the effectiveness and operational capability of maritime defence systems." Jason Casciotti, Vice President of Weapons Systems at BAE Systems, said the cooperation reflects the company's commitment to supporting allied nations through long-term industrial partnerships. "Our collaboration with Diehl Defence builds on BAE Systems' commitment to meeting the needs of our allies through strong local strategic relationships. We are investing in more than just military equipment; we are investing in German defence and local economic growth. Advanced firepower will continue to play a critical role at sea and by combining our battle-tested capabilities, we are focused on delivering superior, integrated solutions that provide the best possible capabilities for the US and its allies." The cooperation brings together Diehl Defence's ammunition and missile technologies with BAE Systems' naval weapons portfolio. According to the companies, the next phase of the partnership will focus on advancing the technical work required for the proposed integrations. The announcement was published by Diehl Defence on August 3, 2026.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-03 16:20:46
 World 

KYIV, Ukraine — Ukraine's 302nd Air Defense Missile Brigade has officially unveiled a mobile version of the STASH short-range air defense system, marking the first formal public presentation of the platform by the Ukrainian military. The system was shown in an official video released by the brigade. In its latest configuration, the launcher is mounted on a Dutch-made DAF YA 4442 military transport truck, replacing earlier trailer-mounted and pickup truck versions that had only appeared in unofficial footage and open-source reports. STASH is built around the AGM-114L Longbow Hellfire, an American-made missile originally developed as an air-to-ground weapon for helicopters and aircraft to destroy tanks and armored vehicles. Unlike laser-guided Hellfire variants, the AGM-114L uses a millimeter-wave active radar seeker, allowing it to operate in fire-and-forget mode by locking onto targets after launch without requiring continuous guidance. The launcher carries up to four Hellfire missiles and is paired with RADA's Multi-Mission Hemispheric Radar, an active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar designed to detect and track low-signature aerial targets such as small drones. The system is intended primarily to counter unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), including Shahed and Geran-type attack drones. With an engagement range of approximately 8 to 11 kilometers and a flight speed of about Mach 1.3 (roughly 425 meters per second), STASH falls into the short-range air defense (SHORAD) category. It is designed for defending specific sites against slow-moving drones and is not intended to intercept faster threats such as cruise missiles or ballistic missiles. STASH shares its core missile and radar components with the Tempest counter-drone system developed by the American company V2X, which has reportedly been used by Ukrainian forces since early 2026. However, STASH uses a simpler truck- or trailer-mounted configuration that is better suited for protecting fixed locations while reducing complexity and maintenance requirements. The move to the DAF YA 4442 platform indicates Ukraine's efforts to standardize the system on a more practical and mobile chassis. Using a common military truck allows faster deployment, easier relocation, and simpler logistics while expanding short-range air defense coverage. The STASH system forms part of Ukraine's layered air defense network, providing localized protection against low-altitude drone threats while allowing higher-end air defense systems to remain available for more advanced aerial targets.

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-03 15:35:24
 U.S 

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

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-03 15:21:54
 World 

Kyiv — Russia has expanded the deployment of electronic warfare (EW) systems along the Novorossiya highway and border regions, making it more difficult for Ukrainian forces to carry out drone strikes, according to Serhii "Flash" Beskrestnov, an electronic warfare specialist and advisor to Ukraine's Ministry of Defense. Beskrestnov said Ukrainian forces had previously conducted active attacks on Russian infrastructure using medium-range unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), particularly during June and July. Those strikes targeted several sections of the Novorossiya highway, disrupting traffic and logistics while affecting travel to the Crimean Peninsula and the supply of the region. According to Beskrestnov, Russian forces have responded by expanding the use of electronic warfare systems designed to interfere with Starlink satellite communication terminals used for drone control. Ukrainian drone operators are recording increased activity from these systems, which has made remote control of attack drones more difficult. He also stated that Russia has established a radiographic network along border areas and key highways, while anti-aircraft interceptor drones are conducting regular patrols over the roads. These combined measures have significantly complicated Ukrainian drone operations along the corridor. The Novorossiya highway, also known as the R-280 route, serves as a major land corridor connecting Russian-controlled areas in southern Ukraine with Crimea and is used for military logistics. Independent reporting has previously confirmed that Ukrainian medium-range drone operations targeted vehicles, fuel transports, and related infrastructure along the route earlier in 2026, leading to temporary traffic restrictions and reported supply challenges in occupied territories.   New EW System Targets Starlink Communications Beskrestnov identified one of the newly deployed Russian systems as the Volna Kupol Garant, which he said is designed to disrupt Starlink satellite communications rather than directly jamming the drone itself. According to his description, the system was developed by the Simferopol-based company Russian Kupol and operates using eight satellite dishes pointed toward the sky. Each dish transmits interference on one of Starlink's communication channels within the 14 to 14.5 GHz frequency range, with the goal of preventing satellites from communicating with ground-based Starlink terminals. Beskrestnov said a single Volna Kupol Garant complex is mounted on six trailers and can disrupt Starlink communications across an area of approximately 20 square kilometers. The increased use of Starlink-equipped drones has become an important feature of the conflict because satellite communications allow operators to maintain control over UAVs across long distances, where conventional ground-based jamming systems have historically been less effective.   Battlefield Impact and Countermeasures According to Beskrestnov, the new electronic warfare network, combined with interceptor drone patrols, has reduced the effectiveness of Ukrainian drone strikes along the Novorossiya highway, at least in the near term. He added that Ukrainian specialists are continuing to develop alternative approaches to overcome the new defensive measures. He also noted that the Volna Kupol Garant system has a potential weakness. Because it emits strong radio-frequency signals and consists of multiple large antenna arrays, it is relatively easy to detect. Beskrestnov stated that Ukraine's 422nd Separate UAV Battalion has already located and destroyed at least two of these complexes in recent weeks. Russian forces have also introduced other protective measures, including changes to convoy operating practices, alongside the deployment of electronic warfare systems. Some of the EW installations themselves have reportedly been targeted during Ukrainian operations. The developments reflect the continuing technological competition between the two sides, with both adapting their tactics as electronic warfare, satellite communications, and unmanned systems play an increasingly important role in operations along the front.    

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-03 15:04:25
 U.S 

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

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-03 14:52:15
 U.S 

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

Read More → Posted on 2026-08-03 14:14:06
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