The US Space Force is advancing satellite refueling technologies to improve national security and operational flexibility in space. Gen. Stephen Whiting of US Space Command underlined the importance of “dynamic operations and on-orbit logistics,” while Lt. Gen. Douglas A. Schiess emphasized preparing spacecraft to “dogfight in space.” The Space Force has allocated $16 million over five years for research, but experts advocate for $200 million annually over three years to establish a functional refueling system. This initiative reflects the Space Force’s focus on sustaining and extending the capabilities of its satellite assets amid growing space competition. Satellite refueling is seen […]
Year: 2024
SpaceX, Palantir, and OpenAI Reportedly Teaming Up
SpaceX, Palantir, OpenAI, and Anduril are reportedly in talks to create a consortium aimed at bidding for U.S. government defense contracts, directly challenging legacy companies like Lockheed Martin, Raytheon, and Boeing. The group plans to announce its membership by January, seeking to disrupt the traditional defense procurement landscape. Palantir, with its advanced AI systems, and Anduril, known for autonomous weapons, bring cutting-edge technology to the consortium, which could reshape defense contracting. Gizmodo highlighted Peter Thiel’s influence on these companies, describing him as a driving force behind their operations, though raising concerns about his controversial ideology and approach to progress. If […]
Italy inks deal to buy up to 24 more Typhoons
Leonardo announced that Italy will purchase up to 24 additional Eurofighter Typhoons to replace its Tranche 1 Eurofighters. The agreement, facilitated by the Eurofighter Typhoon consortium, which includes Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, was made in collaboration with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency. These new aircraft will feature advanced avionics, enhanced weapon systems, and improved connectivity. Simon Ellard, general manager of the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency, emphasized that the order will strengthen Italy’s air combat capabilities and support the security of Italy, Europe, and NATO. This acquisition underscores Italy’s commitment to modernizing its defense forces and […]
Slovakia to purchase Israel’s Barak MX air defense system for €560 million
The Slovak Defense Ministry announced the purchase of the Barak MX air defense system from Israel for €560 million, marking a significant boost to its defense capabilities. This is Israel’s third sale of the system, following agreements with Cyprus and Azerbaijan. Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries, the Barak MX counters a range of threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and tactical ballistic missiles. The deal is seen as a “landmark” step in bolstering Slovakia’s air defense and strengthening defense ties between Israel and Slovakia, according to the Israel Ministry of Defense. This acquisition reflects Slovakia’s commitment to modernizing its military in […]
With S-400s Out, Russia’s Days Of Controlling Syria’s Airspace Are Ove
Russia has removed its S-400 and S-300 air defense systems from Syria, signaling the end of its significant control over the country’s airspace. According to The Wall Street Journal, the systems have been relocated to eastern Libya, where Russian-allied warlord Khalifa Haftar holds power. This withdrawal follows the collapse of President Bashar al-Assad’s regime and the rise of anti-Assad groups in several regions. Analyst Anton Mardasov from Al-Monitor suggested the move could indicate preparations for a full evacuation of Russia’s Hmeimim air base. The shift marks a strategic realignment in Russia’s regional military posture.Original news
Lockheed Martin UK CEO Defends F-35 Amid Criticism from Elon Musk
Lockheed Martin UK CEO Paul Livingston defended the F-35 program after Elon Musk claimed it was obsolete due to advancements in unmanned drones. Livingston highlighted the F-35’s unmatched capabilities, its critical role in NATO’s defense, and its economic impact, projecting £45 billion in contributions to the UK economy by 2046. He emphasized the aircraft’s ability to handle complex missions with fewer planes while integrating with unmanned systems, countering Musk’s remarks as lacking informed context. Livingston stated, “By 2035, there’ll be 650 of them flown by European nations,” adding that the F-35 continues to dominate European fighter competitions. His comments underscore […]
Spain signs for Halcon II Eurofighters
Spain and Eurofighter have signed a contract for 25 new combat aircraft under the Halcon II program, announced on December 20. The deal includes 21 single-seat and four twin-seat Eurofighters, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2030. The aircraft will be assembled at Airbus’s Getafe facility near Madrid in the Tranche 4+ configuration, featuring the advanced European Common Radar System Mark 1. As part of its long-term modernization strategy, the Spanish Air Force is also evaluating future acquisitions, including a potential Tranche 5 Halcon III order or the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II. This contract marks a key step in […]
Ukraine Spurs Weapons Innovation with Growing Defense Tech Industry
Ukraine is cultivating an open market for weapons production to counter Russia’s military advantage, with over 200 new munitions companies established since 2022. Among these, Ark Robotics has emerged as a leader, raising over $1 million and developing 20 drone models. Ukrainian Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted the need for entrepreneurial innovation, asserting, “To defeat Russia, we can’t just do what they do.” Despite obstacles like power outages and limited manufacturing infrastructure, the government is supporting defense startups with grants and initiatives such as the Brave1 platform to attract foreign investors. This approach underscores Ukraine’s reliance on technological […]
Poland Achieves Initial Operational Capability for Wisła Air Defense System
Poland’s Ministry of National Defense announced Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the first battery of the Wisła medium-range air defense program on December 18. The system relies on Northrop Grumman’s Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS), chosen in 2018 as part of Poland’s military modernization efforts. A second battery is expected to reach IOC by the end of 2024, further enhancing Poland’s air defense capabilities. In February, the U.S. and Polish governments signed an agreement to extend the use of IBCS to Poland’s Narew short-range air defense program. These advancements mark significant progress in Poland’s efforts to strengthen its national and […]
Global Space Advancements Mark 2024 as a Transformative Year
The year 2024 witnessed major progress in space exploration and industry, with multiple nations bolstering their space capabilities. Europe expanded its launch options with the addition of Ariane 6 and Vega-C, while India and Japan achieved multiple successful launches. Oman celebrated its entry into space with the launch of its first suborbital rocket, and China advanced its lunar program with new partnerships and returned lunar samples. The Artemis Accords grew to 51 signatories, emphasizing global collaboration, while the EU’s adoption of the Zero Debris Charter highlighted efforts to address space sustainability. These developments underscore a rapidly growing and increasingly cooperative […]
Lithuania prepares acquisition of CV90 vehicles from BAE Systems Hägglunds
Lithuania’s Ministry of National Defence has entered talks with BAE Systems Hägglunds for the acquisition of CV90 tracked infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) and closer collaboration with Sweden’s defense industry. Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė emphasized the vehicles’ importance in achieving Full Operational Capability for Lithuania’s national division by 2030. To support the purchase, Lithuania has approved raising its defense borrowing limit to €800 million in 2024. The country also plans to join a joint IFV acquisition program with Finland, Sweden, and Norway, pending agreements on industrial cooperation among the nations. With negotiations expected to conclude by the end of 2025, this […]
Germany flexes submarine muscle with additional 4 boat order
Germany has tripled its order of ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) 212CD submarines, increasing the total to six as part of a joint procurement initiative with Norway. This expansion follows the German parliament’s approval of €21 billion in new defense spending, covering investments in frigates, Puma IFVs, Patriot missiles, and Elbit Systems’ PULS rocket artillery. TKMS confirmed the expanded order as one of its largest, with production on schedule and deliveries beginning for Norway in 2029 and for Germany in 2032. To support the increased demand, TKMS has invested over €250 million to boost production capacity at its Kiel facility. Featuring […]
Norway Strengthens Air Defense with Expanded NASAMS Acquisition
Norway has signed a contract with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency to acquire new multi-missile canister launchers and Fire Distribution Centers for the NASAMS air defense system, replacing equipment donated to Ukraine and building additional capacity. The agreement exercises an option announced in June when Norway committed to investing in new NASAMS systems. Norwegian Defence Minister Bjørn Arild Gram emphasized the rapid pace of modernization, stating, “In less than a year, we have secured deliveries equivalent to four complete NASAMS batteries.” Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace President Eirik Lie called the system vital for safeguarding Norway’s security, highlighting its ability to […]
Germany launches Taurus cruise missile modernisation programme
Germany is set to modernize its Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile inventory starting in 2025, nearly 20 years after its introduction in 2005. The upgrade will prepare the missiles, currently integrated with Panavia Tornado aircraft, for use with the Eurofighter as the Tornado fleet retires by 2030. Developed by Germany’s MBDA and Sweden’s Saab Dynamics, the Taurus boasts a 480kg warhead and a range of over 500km. The system has also been exported to South Korea and Spain for integration with their Boeing F-15K and F-18 aircraft. This modernization effort reflects Germany’s commitment to maintaining advanced long-range strike capabilities. Original […]
US to announce final package of new arms for Ukraine in coming days
The Biden administration is preparing to announce a $1.2 billion Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) package, focusing on air defense interceptors and artillery munitions. Unlike direct aid, USAI funds procure military equipment from contractors or allies, with delivery timelines spanning months to years. Since February 2022, the U.S. has committed $175 billion in aid to Ukraine, including $61.4 billion for security assistance, half of which is via USAI. This program has supported U.S. defense contractors, such as L3Harris Technologies, which supplied the VAMPIRE system through USAI funding. Uncertainty surrounds future U.S. aid to Ukraine, with some Republican leaders pushing to […]