#analysis After acquiring Aerojet Rocketdyne in July 2024, L3Harris became a significant player in the missile and rocket propulsion market. Ross Niebergall, the new division chief, has been working to streamline production processes and address supply chain bottlenecks, particularly for critical weapons like the Javelin and Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System. The acquisition positions L3Harris to meet the rising global demand for rocket motors, driven by conflicts in regions like Ukraine and the Pacific. Other companies, such as Anduril Industries and X-Bow Systems, are also expanding into the rocket propulsion market, highlighting growing competition and innovation. Analysts predict the market […]
Category: Ukraine
Ukrainian Army Deploys AI-Guided Drones In Combat
A Ukrainian soldier from the 118th Mechanized Brigade tested a new AI-assisted FPV drone, resulting in a direct strike on a Russian soldier in southern Ukraine. The incident demonstrated the enhanced precision and lethality of Ukraine’s evolving drone technology, which uses artificial intelligence to improve targeting in the final moments of flight. Both Ukraine and Russia have been deploying thousands of FPV drones each month, transforming modern warfare by targeting vehicles, trenches, and individuals. Ukrainian operators, often more skilled than their Russian counterparts, are adapting quickly to new technologies to maintain their edge in drone warfare. Commander Robert Brovdi stated […]
France confirms Mirage 2000s to arrive to Ukraine in early 2025
French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on social media that the first of an undisclosed number of Mirage 2000 combat aircraft will arrive in Ukraine in early 2025. Lecornu stated, “The delivery of Mirage 2000s to Ukraine remains on schedule for the first quarter of 2025. In Cazaux, Gironde, the aircraft will be outfitted with new equipment for air-to-ground combat and anti-electronic warfare defense. Meanwhile, the training of Ukrainian pilots and mechanics is ongoing.” As previously reported by Janes, the French Air and Space Force is gradually replacing its Mirage 2000s with the Dassault Rafale, allowing for their availability to […]
UK defence release ITTs as part of the Drone Capability Coalition
The British government has issued tenders for specific drone capabilities as part of the international Drone Capability Coalition (DCC) to support Ukraine’s continued use of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). The first phase focuses on procuring Large First-Person View (FPV) drones and Operational Drone Interceptors, with a goal to establish a reliable Western-based supply chain and ensure Ukraine outpaces Russian drone capabilities. The FPV tender aims to deliver 300 drones for initial testing, while the interceptor tender targets systems to counter opposing UAS threats. This initiative forms part of the broader global sustainment program, launched by the UK and Latvia, and […]
Ukraine To Receive Mirage 2000 Fighters From France In 2025
France has confirmed it will upgrade surplus Mirage 2000 jets with air-ground combat and electronic warfare systems before delivering them to Ukraine. The jets will likely be armed with French-made SCALP-EG cruise missiles and Hammer glide bombs, providing precision-strike capabilities at distances of up to 155 miles, reinforcing Ukraine’s aging Su-24 bombers. Meanwhile, Ukraine’s acquisition of F-16s will bolster its air force alongside its MiG-29 and Su-27 jets. The Mirage 2000s could potentially form a new bomber brigade to operate alongside the battle-hardened 7th Tactical Aviation Brigade, which has expanded significantly during the war. Ukrainian pilots and ground crews are […]
US Forces Europe Commander Compiles List Of American Weapons Systems To Help Ukraine
General Chris Cavoli, the top US military commander in Europe, compiled a list of advanced weapons systems that could significantly bolster Ukraine’s defense against Russia. Among these systems are the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) and Link 16, a NATO data-sharing network that enhances battlefield communication, especially for air and missile defense. Ukraine has repeatedly requested these capabilities, but US officials are concerned about sensitive technology falling into Russian hands. While the Biden administration has provided substantial aid, it has so far refrained from supplying certain long-range missile systems that might provoke deeper Russian retaliation. The future of US support […]
DefendTex attack UAV operational in Ukraine after UK-Latvia Drone Coalition selection
Australian company DefendTex has launched its first-person-view (FPV) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) called the Vengeance FPV, with some units already shipped to Ukraine for evaluation. The quadrotor UAV is designed for mass production and was showcased in a recent fly-off event in Latvia, part of the UK-led Drone Coalition supporting Ukraine. Following the event, 20 unarmed Vengeance FPV UAVs were delivered to the Ukrainian armed forces for testing. DefendTex is now awaiting feedback on the UAV’s performance in the field. The Drone Coalition focuses on supplying Ukraine with drones and components from Ukraine Defense Contact Group countries. Original news
Russia’s S-70 Hunter Drone Was Armed When Shot Down By Friendly Fighter Over Ukraine
#analysis Photos of the wreckage of the Russian S-70 Okhotnik-B (Hunter-B) UCAV shot down over Ukraine reveal it was carrying a precision-guided glide bomb, indicating the drone was undergoing operational trials. The drone, potentially a fourth prototype, was shot down by a Russian fighter, likely to prevent sensitive technology from falling into Ukrainian hands. The S-70 was likely testing its performance in a contested environment, possibly engaging Ukrainian targets. This incident underscores the increasing use of advanced unmanned systems like the S-70 in the Ukraine conflict, with its stealth and strike capabilities being of interest to Russia’s military. Despite its […]
Ukrainian Pilots Face Challenges Transitioning To F-16s
Ukrainian pilots are quickly adapting to flying F-16 jets, transitioning from Soviet-era aircraft in a challenging process. Air-warfare experts note the difficulty in retraining muscle memory, especially moving from hydraulic systems to the F-16’s fly-by-wire technology. Typically requiring three years of training, Ukrainian pilots have condensed this process into just nine months due to wartime urgency. Despite these challenges, retired US Army Maj. Gen. Gordon Davis emphasized the immediate impact of Ukraine’s F-16s. More jets are expected to arrive, further enhancing their effectiveness in combat. Original news
CSG signs deal for Ukrainian production of artillery shells
Czechoslovak Group (CSG) has signed an agreement with Ukrainian arms manufacturer Ukrainska Bronetechnika to begin local production of 155mm artillery shells in Ukraine. The collaboration, formalized on October 2, 2024, aims to produce 100,000 shells in 2025, with a target of over 300,000 annually by 2026. This initiative will strengthen Ukraine’s defense capabilities by reducing costs and ensuring local production capacity. CSG has been supporting Ukraine’s defense needs since 2018, with increased military equipment deliveries following Russia’s 2022 invasion. The Czech Ministry of Defence and AMOS played key roles in facilitating this cooperation to enhance Ukraine’s long-term defense industry. Original […]
US to transfer more SDB glide bombs for stand-off strike
The United States will send Boeing GBU-39 Small Diameter Bombs (SDBs) to Ukraine, enhancing the country’s ability to conduct standoff strikes into Russian-occupied territories. The GBU-39 has a standoff range of approximately 100 km and weighs 130 kg, allowing Ukrainian aircraft to carry four times as many weapons as before. These bombs are compatible with Ukraine’s recently delivered F-16 Fighting Falcon combat jets and the Saab Gripen Cs, expected to arrive after Sweden’s pledge to supply spare parts. This delivery is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen Ukraine’s military capabilities. Original news
EU opens defense innovation hub in Kyiv to boost industry outreach
The European Union has opened a defense-innovation office in Kyiv to enhance cooperation between Ukrainian and European defense industries. This office aims to connect European startups with Ukraine’s defense sector, integrating Ukrainian firms into the EU defense-equipment market. By facilitating access to EU funding, the office will help Ukrainian defense companies and startups overcome financial hurdles in ramping up weapon production. Ukraine, a global leader in drone technology, is seen as an invaluable partner for EU defense companies seeking battlefield-tested innovations. Additionally, Denmark announced plans to establish its own defense-industry hub in Kyiv, reinforcing collaboration between Danish and Ukrainian defense […]
What Are JSOWs? Long Range US Glide Bombs Handed to Ukraine – Newsweek
The U.S. is sending Joint Standoff Weapon (JSOW) long-range glide bombs to Ukraine as part of a $375 million military aid package announced on September 26. These precision-guided bombs, which weigh 1,100 pounds and have a range of over 70 miles, are designed to bypass Russian air defenses when launched from F-16 jets. The JSOW bombs are considered more advanced than the glide bombs used by Russia and are priced at $500,000 each. They use GPS for guidance and feature infrared imaging sensors that are resistant to radio-frequency jamming. This aid package also includes HIMARS, Javelin systems, and other military […]
US works on workaround for nearly US$6 billion military support to Ukraine
The Biden administration is working on a plan to extend its authority to send $5.9 billion worth of weapons and equipment to Ukraine before the funding expires at the end of September. This authority allows the Pentagon to quickly transfer weapons from its own stocks, which are then replenished with funds. The administration aims to use the remaining assistance over the next few months, although it can’t provide new types of equipment. Pentagon officials believe deliveries can continue beyond the fiscal year if done promptly. The Biden administration is also seeking congressional approval to carry over unused funds to next […]
The 40-year-old troop carrier and other infantry-fighting vehicles have been surprise stars of Ukraine’s campaign
The Wall Street Journal reports that BAE Systems’ Bradley infantry fighting vehicle has gained iconic status among Ukrainian troops for its ability to protect against drones, mines, and antitank weapons. The Bradley offers strong survivability, agility, and versatility in both offensive and defensive operations while being more resource-efficient than tanks. The U.S. Army continues to operate Bradleys equipped with the Iron Fist protection system. The report also highlights the threat posed by UAVs to infantry fighting vehicles, noting that BAE’s CV90 uses a counter-UAS system, while Ukrainian Bradleys employ electronic warfare systems to counter Russian drones. The Bradley’s performance has […]