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Breaking News: Sweden's Saab Gripen E/F selected by Colombia in fighter jet competition against US F-16

On April 3, 2025, Colombian President Gustavo Petro formally announced his government's decision to acquire the Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft, marking a decisive step in the country’s longstanding effort to modernize its air force. The announcement follows the signing of a letter of intent with the Swedish government and the formal designation of strategic air defense as a national priority. According to Petro, the fleet to be acquired will be entirely new, utilizing the latest technology, and will be the same model already introduced in Brazil — the advanced Gripen E/F variant.  Read full defense news at this link... The Saab Gripen’s delta wing and canard configuration, combined with fly-by-wire controls and embedded AI for human-machine collaboration, contribute to its maneuverability. (Picture source: Raimo Roonet Aviation Photography via Facebook/Flygvapnet) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/ZdbmOQh via IFTTT
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First Operational Delivery of New Challenger 3 Tank to British Army Slated for 2027 Following Supply Chain Delays.

On April 1, 2025, British Secretary of State for Defense, Maria Eagle, responded to a parliamentary question raised by MP Mark François regarding the Challenger 3 Main Battle Tank (MBT) program. In her written reply published on the UK Parliament website, she acknowledged that the program had been affected by delays within the supply chain. While emphasizing that additional resources have been allocated to address these disruptions, she confirmed that the next phase of trials is scheduled to begin in the second quarter of 2025. The Ministry of Defence (MOD) continues to closely monitor progress to assess any further impact on the program’s timeline, particularly its Initial Operating Capability (IOC) goal set for 2027. Read full Defense News at this link ... A Challenger 3 prototype on display at DVD 2024 defense exhibition at Millbrook Proving Ground, showcasing the new turret design, Rheinmetall 120mm smoothbore gun, and advanced digital systems that will define the British Ar...

Cathx Ocean Unveils INKA Iris Intelligent Camera for Real-Time Underwater Imaging Down to 1,000 Meters

Faced with the increasing complexity of underwater operations, particularly in the fields of critical infrastructure monitoring and environmental surveying, the ability to obtain accurate and immediately usable data has become a key operational challenge. It is in this context that Cathx Ocean presented its new underwater camera system, INKA Iris, at UDT 2025. This next-generation imaging sensor integrates onboard data processing and real-time artificial intelligence capabilities, opening new possibilities for autonomous underwater vehicles. Read more.   INKA Iris is the first camera built on the INKA platform developed by Cathx Ocean, combining ultra-high-resolution image capture with intelligent data processing directly on the sensor (Picture source: Cathx Ocean) Read full Defense news.  from World Defence News https://ift.tt/4aRSeCk via IFTTT

Philippines to receive 20 F-16 Block 70/72 fighter jets from the US as confrontations with China grow

On April 1, 2025, the U.S. State Department announced the approval of a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to the Philippines for twenty F-16 Block 70/72 fighter jets and associated weapons, equipment, and support systems, valued at an estimated $5.58 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) delivered the necessary certification to Congress, opening a 30-day window during which lawmakers may review the proposed deal, although such sales are rarely blocked. The approval follows heightened U.S.-Philippine defense engagement and comes amid regional tensions in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait.  Read full defense news at this link... The F-16 Block 70/72 Fighting Falcon features the proven APG-83 AESA radar, which offers enhanced situational awareness with capabilities comparable to those of fifth-generation fighter radars. (Picture source: Edwards Air Force Base) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/0TSEDaU via IFTTT

SOFINS 2025: Strategic Venue For Interaction Between Defense Industry and Special Forces in France

From April 1 to 3, 2025, Camp de Souge in Gironde is hosting the 7th edition of SOFINS, the Special Operations Forces Innovation Network Seminar, organized by the Cercle de l’Arbalète. As a uniquely structured event in Europe, SOFINS brings together defense industry professionals, special operations personnel, and international delegations in a closed, human-scale format designed exclusively for professionals. Positioned at the intersection of operational experience and technological development, this event provides a rare environment for real-world testing, demonstration, and direct dialogue in realistic field conditions. Read more.   SOFINS catalyzes cooperation between industry and forces, highlighting France’s expertise in supporting special operations capabilities Read full Defense news.  from World Defence News https://ift.tt/L38sRva via IFTTT

NH90 Caiman Standard 2 Helicopter Prototype Enhances French Special Forces Capabilities at SOFINS 2025

  From April 1 to 3, 2025, the SOFINS exhibition (Special Operations Forces Innovation Network Seminar), held in Martignas-sur-Jalle, Gironde, and organized by the Cercle de l’Arbalète, offers the public an unprecedented look at the prototype of the  NH90  Caiman Standard 2 helicopter. This official unveiling, led by France’s Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) in partnership with Airbus Helicopters France, marks a key milestone in the modernization of the French special forces' air mobility assets at a time when adapting to evolving threats requires targeted upgrades of deployment platforms. Read more.  The main enhancements introduced in the Standard 2 configuration is the integration of the Safran EOS410 optronic system, featuring an infrared camera combined with a laser designator and pointer (Picture source: Army Recognition) Read full Defense news. from World Defence News https://ift.tt/l3oguYJ via IFTTT

Technology: Israel’s Rafael Demonstrates New Counter-Drone System with Live Fire Test of TYPHOON 30 RWS.

On March 31, 2025, Israeli company RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems Ltd., one of the country’s premier defense contractors, announced the successful completion of a live-fire test of its advanced TYPHOON 30 Remote Weapon Station (RWS). The test, conducted in February 2025, validated the system’s superior counter-drone capabilities, reinforcing its strategic role in Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) operations. Read full Defense News at this link ... RAFAEL’s Typhoon 30 Remote Weapon Station, mounted on a modular platform, during a live-fire demonstration in Israel, February 2025. Equipped with a 30mm Bushmaster II cannon and advanced sensor suite, the system showcases its precision engagement capabilities against aerial threats, including drones. (Picture source: Rafael) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/S6psnQu via IFTTT

US Army Expands Long-Range Firepower with $4.94 Billion Lockheed Martin Precision Strike Missile Production Contract.

On March 31, 2025, the American Defense Company Lockheed Martin announced it has been awarded a major Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract by the U.S. Army, valued at up to $4.94 billion, for the continued production of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM). This strategic agreement marks a significant step in the U.S. Army’s modernization efforts, aimed at dramatically enhancing its long-range precision fires capabilities in response to evolving global threats. Read full Defense News at this link ... A U.S. Army M142 HIMARS launches a Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) during a live-fire test, showcasing the system’s extended-range precision strike capability and enhanced firepower. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/swYDLAv via IFTTT

Flash News: Poland Expands Patriot Air Defense Missile Program with US Support Amid Rising Russian Threats.

Poland has taken another decisive step in strengthening its national and regional air defense capabilities with the signing of a $2 billion agreement with the United States on March 31, 2025. The signing ceremony, held at the 3rd Warsaw Air Defense Missile Brigade in Sochaczew, was attended by Prime Minister Donald Tusk, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, and other senior defense officials. The newly signed intergovernmental agreement marks a critical phase in the implementation of Poland’s WISŁA air and missile defense program, focusing on logistical support, technical maintenance, and the development of advanced training infrastructure for the Patriot air defense missile system. Read full Defense News at this link ... Polish Patriot air defense missile launcher on deployment at the 3rd Warsaw Air Defense Missile Brigade — a key component of the WISŁA program enhancing Poland’s multi-layered defense against aerial and missile threa...

US-Germany jointly develop new generation of rockets/missiles launcher GMARS with 400 km range.

German Company Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin from the United States have taken a significant step forward in the field of long-range precision fires with the presentation of their latest joint development, the Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS). At a recent international summit hosted in Europe, the two defense giants showcased the advanced capabilities of the new two-pod launcher system to a select audience from 14 nations, comprising military leaders, defense professionals, and industry experts. Read full Defense News at this link ... The Global Mobile Artillery Rocket System (GMARS), jointly developed by German Company Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin from the United States, displayed on the Rheinmetall HX truck chassis, showcasing its dual-pod launcher capable of firing MLRS munitions with ranges exceeding 400 km. (Picture source: Rheinmetall) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/OKMkfFd via IFTTT

Japan completes Type 12 surface-to-ship missile deployment to protect strategic straits against Chinese naval expansion

On March 30, 2025, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) formally completed the activation of the 8th Surface-to-Ship Missile Regiment at Yufuin Garrison in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu. The unit, under the 2nd Artillery Brigade and composed of approximately 300 personnel, operates both Type 88 and Type 12 surface-to-ship missile systems. This marks the final step in the Ministry of Defense’s plan to establish seven such regiments nationwide. The Yufuin-based unit follows previous formations in locations including Katsuren in Okinawa, Kengun in Kumamoto, Hachinohe in Aomori, and multiple sites in Hokkaido.  Read full defense news at this link... The use of long-range missiles such as the Type 12 is permitted under Article 9 of the Japanese Constitution if their use constitutes a necessary and minimal exercise of self-defense in response to an armed attack that threatens Japan’s survival. (Picture source: Twitter/@315th_IGNIB) Read more... from World Defence News ht...

US company Sikorsky turns to export market for its S-97 Raider attack helicopter after US program cancellations

As reported by RID on March 25, 2025, Sikorsky held a demonstration of its S-97 Raider attack helicopter at the Development Flight Center in West Palm Beach, Florida, on February 11 and 12, 2025. The event was organized for an international audience, with the objective of promoting the X2 platform for NATO's Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) program and South Korea’s experimental utility helicopter project (XUH), both of which focus on acquiring a 14–15 ton class fast multirole rotorcraft. The company is seeking international buyers following the U.S. Army’s cancellation of the Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft (FARA) program and its earlier decision to award the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) contract to a competing platform.  Read full defense news at this link... Powered by a General Electric YT706 turboshaft engine, the same model used in the MH-60M Black Hawk, the S-97 Raider attack helicopter has a top speed of 440 km/h. (Picture source: Sik...

US Marine Corps Leverages TRV150 Cargo Drone to Resupply Troops on the Battlefield Without Risk.

The U.S. Marine Corps is actively integrating unmanned aerial systems (UAS) into its logistics operations, with the T150/TRV150 cargo drone emerging as a pivotal asset in enhancing battlefield resupply capabilities. Recent Department of Defense imagery from March 16, 2025, captures U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Phillip McLaughlin of Combat Logistics Battalion 6 conducting a safety inspection after attaching water-filled jerrycans to a Tactical Resupply Vehicle 150 (TRV150) during Mountain Training Exercise 2-25 at the Marine Corps Mountain Warfare Training Center in Bridgeport, California. Read full Defense News at this link ... U.S. Marine Corps Cpl. Phillip McLaughlin, a motor vehicle operator with Combat Logistics Battalion 6, Combat Logistics Regiment 2, 2nd Marine Logistics Group, performs a safety inspection after securing water-filled jerrycans to a Tactical Resupply Vehicle 150 (TRV150) unmanned aircraft system during Mountain Training Exercise 2-25. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) ...

Ukraine Reinforces Air Defense Network with Converted R-73 Air-to-Air Missiles on US HUMVEE Vehicle.

In response to relentless aerial assaults from Russian forces, Ukraine has unveiled an innovative mobile air defense system that repurposes existing military assets to address critical defense needs. This new system integrates Soviet-era R-73 air-to-air missiles onto U.S.-supplied HMMWV (High Mobility Multipurpose Wheeled Vehicle) platforms, creating a highly mobile and effective solution against aerial threats such as drones and missiles. Read News Russia - Ukraine War at this link ... Ukrainian-developed mobile air defense system mounted on a U.S.-supplied HUMVEE 4x4 light tactical vehicle, armed with a pair of repurposed Soviet-era R-73 infrared-guided missiles. (Picture source: Ukraine Armed Forces) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/S4oH53C via IFTTT

Breaking News: US-Japan to Co-Produce AMRAAM Air-to-Air Missiles Amid Rising Threats from China and North Korea.

According to information published by the Japanese Press Agency Kyodo News on March 30, 2025, Japan and the United States have announced the early launch of a joint coproduction program for the AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM). The announcement was made during a meeting in Tokyo between U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani. The move comes in response to growing regional security challenges and aims to further strengthen the long-standing military alliance between the two countries through deeper defense industrial cooperation. Read full Defense Aerospace News at this link ... A U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jet fires an AIM-120 AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missile during a live-fire test.  (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/QYBqmdh via IFTTT

Exclusive: US Navy Validates AEGIS Combat System on Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyer During Live Ballistic Missile Intercept Test.

In a unique demonstration of advanced missile defense capabilities, the U.S. Navy executed a groundbreaking test in which a two-stage ballistic missile was dropped from a C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft using parachutes before being launched directly into the air. This innovative approach, part of Flight Test Other-40 (FTX-40), codenamed Stellar Banshee, was designed to evaluate the Aegis Combat System aboard the Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) against a live medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) threat simulating hypersonic characteristics. Read full Naval News at this link ... The U.S. Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer USS Pinckney (DDG 91) underway during a live-fire test of the AEGIS Combat System. In the vignette, a simulated ballistic missile is seen being dropped from a C-17 aircraft, representing the test's hypersonic target scenario. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/8DjRnCS via IFTTT

Analysis: Greenland Pituffik US Space Force Base Emerges as Key US Arctic Shield Against Russia and China.

Located on the remote northwest coast of Greenland, Pituffik Space Base—formerly known as Thule Air Base—is rapidly emerging as one of the United States’ most strategically vital military installations. Amid intensifying global competition for Arctic dominance, this base is now at the heart of America’s defense posture in the region, serving as a forward-operating sentinel against the rising threats posed by Russia and China. Read full Defense News at this link ... Front view of Pituffik Space Base in northwest Greenland, showcasing key U.S. Space Force facilities operating under extreme Arctic conditions. The base plays a vital role in missile warning, space surveillance, and strategic Arctic defense. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/rPOXptU via IFTTT

Breaking News: US Defense Secretary Hegseth Announces NMESIS Anti-Ship Missile Deployment in Philippines to Counter China.

On March 28, 2025, during his official visit to Manila, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the deployment of advanced military assets to the Philippines, including the Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System (NMESIS), an anti-ship missile system, and unmanned surface vessels. This strategic move underscores the deepening defense collaboration between the United States and the Philippines, aiming to bolster regional security amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea. Read full Defense News at this link ... A U.S. NMESIS Naval Strike Missile streaks out to sea before striking a naval target ship, Aug. 15, 2021, aboard Pacific Missile Range Facility Barking Sands, Hawaii.  (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/6Je0WcU via IFTTT

Breaking News: US Delivers First F-16V Fighter Jet to Taiwan to Boost Air Defense Against China Threats.

On March 28, 2025, U.S. Congressman William Timmons announced the delivery of the first F-16V fighter jet to Taiwan via his official X account, marking a key moment in U.S.-Taiwan defense cooperation. That same day, Taiwan's Vice Defense Minister Po Horng-huei attended the official delivery ceremony at Lockheed Martin’s facility in Greenville, South Carolina. The event marked a significant milestone in Taiwan’s ongoing effort to modernize its air defense capabilities. The newly delivered F-16C/D Block 70, also known as the F-16V, is the first of 66 jets being acquired under a multi-billion-dollar arms package approved in 2019 during the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. This delivery underscores the strategic importance of the partnership between Washington and Taipei as tensions with China continue to escalate. Read full Defense Aerospace News at this link ... Taiwan's Vice Defense Minister Po Horng-huei and U.S. Congressman William Timmons attend the offic...

Russia launches Yasen-M class Perm as first nuclear attack submarine specifically designed to carry Zircon hypersonic missiles

On March 27, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin officially launched the Perm, a fourth-generation nuclear-powered attack submarine belonging to the Yasen-M class. Named after the city of Perm in the Urals, it is the sixth vessel in the Yasen/Yasen-M series and the first Russian nuclear submarine to be officially equipped with the 3M22 Zircon hypersonic cruise missile as a standard feature. The submarine was laid down on July 29, 2016, at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk. Its launch marks a significant stage in the Russian Navy’s ongoing shipbuilding program. The Perm is scheduled to enter service with the Russian Navy in 2026.  Read full defense news at this link... The Perm differs slightly in design from earlier Project 885M submarines to accommodate the Zircon missile system and is the first regular attack submarine specifically constructed for its deployment. (Picture source: Telegram/Dmitry Makhonin) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/t...

Flash News: US Navy USS Truman Aircraft Carrier Conducts Flight Ops Amid Extended Deployment Against Houthis.

The U.S. Navy's Nimitz-class aircraft carrier, USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75), continues high-tempo flight operations in the U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) theater, currently deployed in the Red Sea, showcasing U.S. naval airpower and strategic reach amid a significant uptick in regional tensions. Following a formal announcement by U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, the Truman’s deployment has been extended by at least one month to sustain a powerful maritime presence and support intensified combat operations against the Yemen-based Houthi rebels. Read full Naval News at this link ... An E/A-18G Growler from Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 144 launches from the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) during ongoing flight operations in the U.S. Central Command's area of responsibility. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/DJRUtkF via IFTTT

Denmark Weighs Expanding Its Fleet of US F-35 Fighters Despite Tensions over Greenland

As diplomatic tensions intensify between Denmark and the United States regarding the future of Greenland, an autonomous territory under Danish sovereignty, Copenhagen is paradoxically considering strengthening its military cooperation with Washington. On March 26, 2025, Danish Defence Minister Troels Lund Poulsen confirmed in an interview with the daily Børsen that Denmark is contemplating the acquisition of additional F-35A fighter jets manufactured in the United States. This announcement comes amid a politically sensitive environment, marked by renewed assertions from U.S. President Donald Trump concerning Greenland, as well as growing concerns over Denmark’s strategic dependency on the United States for military equipment. Read more.   Denmark plans to expand its initial order of 27 F-35As—11 soon operational at Skrydstrup—by acquiring 8 to 10 more amid rising security concerns in Europe and the Arctic (Picture source: US DoD) Read full Defense news.  f...

Ukraine Claims to Deploy Tryzub Laser System to Counter Russian Loitering Munitions

During a defense industry conference held in Kyiv in December 2024, Colonel Vadym Sukharevskyi, commander of Ukraine’s newly established Unmanned Systems Forces, first disclosed the existence of a new anti-air laser weapon named Tryzub. Two months later, in February 2025, he confirmed in an interview with Radio Free Europe that the system had already been deployed in the field and used against low-flying aerial targets. Although this information has yet to be independently verified, the announcement could place Ukraine among the few countries to have fielded directed-energy technology in an active conflict. Read more .  South Korea’s Skylight laser system, operational since late 2024, can neutralize drones within a 2–3 km range and operates from an 81-cubic-meter container generating up to 700°C heat in short bursts (Picture source: ROK) Read Full Defense news.  from World Defence News https://ift.tt/2QrhIZ6 via IFTTT

North Korea tests first IL-76 early warning aircraft to extend surveillance over South Korean airspace

On March 27, 2025, North Korea publicly revealed its first airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft at the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Technology Complex and the Detection and Electronic Warfare Research Group. During the visit, Kim Jong-un boarded and inspected a modified Ilyushin Il-76 aircraft outfitted with a radar dome, indicating its role as an AEW&C platform. The event coincided with performance tests of newly developed unmanned reconnaissance drones and suicide drones equipped with artificial intelligence.  Read full defense news at this link... The AEW&C aircraft, converted from one of three Il-76MD cargo aircraft originally operated by the national airline Air Koryo, has been under modification since October 2023 at Pyongyang Sunan International Airport. (Picture source: KCNA) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/SHpoldw via IFTTT

New Aegis test shows US Navy Arleigh Burke-class destroyer could face a new generation of hypersonic missile threats

On March 25, 2025, Lockheed Martin announced that the USS Pinckney (DDG-91), an Arleigh Burke-class destroyer, participated in Flight Test Other-40 (FTX-40), codenamed Stellar Banshee, and successfully simulated the engagement with a hypersonic ballistic missile target. The test, conducted at the Pacific Missile Range Facility, demonstrated the Aegis Combat System’s ability to detect, track, and engage such threats in a virtual configuration. It marked a key step in a broader program that evaluated the Aegis Combat System’s performance against modern medium-range ballistic missile (MRBM) threats.  Read full defense news at this link... The USS Pinckney (DDG-91), the first Arleigh Burke-class destroyer equipped with the AN/SPY-1D(V) Littoral Warfare Radar, recently completed a two-year modernization period before participating in this simulated hypersonic missile defense test. (Picture source: US DoD) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/GjH7B5l via I...

Russia accepts Black Sea ceasefire conditions negotiated with Ukraine and the United States

On March 25, 2025, Ukraine and the United States held bilateral technical consultations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. The agenda focused on several issues: the security of energy and critical infrastructure, safe navigation in the Black Sea, and the release and return of Ukrainian prisoners and children. The meeting was part of a series of consultations initiated by Ukraine and is described by Ukrainian officials as a continuation of earlier discussions held with the United States in Jeddah. According to Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, the consultations are being conducted in line with the President of Ukraine’s instructions to work toward a just peace and to ensure the country’s security. Umerov stated that Ukraine’s position in these discussions remains honest, transparent, and consistent.  Read full defense news at this link... For Ukraine, access to the Black Sea is essential for maintaining commercial maritime routes, especially for grain exports, and for national...

US Army tests new DeepStrike autonomous rocket launcher to launch more missiles with less manpower

On March 25, 2025, at the U.S. Army’s Project Convergence Capstone 5 event held in Fort Irwin, California, Raytheon, an RTX business, conducted a live fire demonstration of its DeepStrike autonomous mobile launcher vehicle. The system, which does not require a driver, was developed through collaboration with Forterra, Oshkosh Defense, and Ursa Major. Raytheon led the development of the launcher and missile; Forterra provided the autonomous driving system; Oshkosh Defense supplied the vehicle platform and electronic systems; and Ursa Major manufactured the missile’s rocket motor.  Read full defense news at this link... The DeepStrike launcher is designed to accommodate multiple missile sizes and types, and to increase the number of weapons carried compared to current systems. (Picture source: Raytheon) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/XRwYhae via IFTTT

Russia upgrades Zala Z-16 reconnaissance drone with AI to autonomously evade Ukrainian drone interceptors

On March 14, 2025, the Russian company Zala Aero reported that its Z-16 reconnaissance unmanned aerial system (UAS) had returned to its crew following an attempted intercept by a First-Person View (FPV) drone. According to the operator, the drone was damaged by shrapnel during the encounter but managed to return independently despite losing its communication link. The company indicated that the Z-16 is equipped with special cameras, which identify incoming threats and instruct the onboard system to execute evasive maneuvers. The onboard systems reportedly allowed the aircraft to orient itself, navigate without communication, and land using its parachute and air shock absorber.  Read full defense news at this link... The Z-16 has been used by the Russian Armed Forces since the beginning of the war in Ukraine to gather intelligence on enemy positions, locate camouflaged equipment, and provide targeting data for artillery and airstrikes. (Picture source: Zala) Read more.....

Australia Accelerates Submarine and Frigate Program as Tensions with China Escalate

According to a Reuters report published on March 24, 2025, Australia announced it would bring forward one billion Australian dollars in defense spending in the federal budget to enhance its military capabilities. This investment includes the production of guided munitions, establishing a base for AUKUS submarines, and the accelerated acquisition of a frigate. The decision comes amid increasing pressure from the United States for its security allies to raise their defense expenditures. Read more .  United States Navy Virginia-class submarine USS Minnesota prepares to come alongside Fleet Base West in Western Australia (Picture source: Australian MoD) Read full Defense news .  from World Defence News https://ift.tt/vMPegnr via IFTTT

Australian Army boosts long-range strike capabilities as first US-made M142 HIMARS rocket launchers enter service

On 24 March 2025, the Australian Defence Force (ADF) received the first two M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) from the United States. The delivery was completed via a Royal Australian Air Force C-17A Globemaster III to Avalon Airport and coincided with the start of the Australian International Airshow 2025. The two launchers represent the initial delivery under a broader acquisition plan for 42 HIMARS units, part of an AU$1.6 billion (approx. US$1 billion) investment announced by the Albanese Government in response to the 2023 Defence Strategic Review (DSR). The HIMARS units will be assigned to the newly created 10th Fires Brigade, based at RAAF Base Edinburgh in Adelaide.  Read full defense news at this link... The first M142 HIMARS systems were initially expected to begin arriving in 2026, but the timeline has been accelerated, with all 42 launchers now scheduled for delivery by the end of 2027. (Picture source: Australian MoD) Read more... from ...

Poland and Baltic States to start mining borders in response to threats from Russia and Belarus

As reported by Kresy.PL, during an interview with RMF FM on March 19, 2025, Polish Minister of Defense Paweł Bejda confirmed that Poland intends to deploy anti-personnel mines along its borders with Russia and Belarus as part of the national East Shield program. He stated that this decision resulted from the current security situation along Poland’s eastern borders, which he described as serious. Bejda specifically mentioned concerns regarding Belarus’s alignment with Russia and cited the direction of Russia’s previous military actions against Ukraine as part of the rationale for the decision.  Read full defense news at this link... The number of mines to be produced by Poland is expected to range from several hundred thousand to approximately one million units. (Picture source: Russian social media) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/b4okXpr via IFTTT

Sweden Confirms Delivery of ASC 890 Aircraft to Ukraine to Strengthen Early Warning and Air Defense Network.

According to information published on March 21, 2025, by the Delfi news website, the transfer of the Swedish ASC 890 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft to Ukraine is progressing as planned. This critical military assistance, first announced by the Swedish Ministry of Defense on May 29, 2024, marks a significant enhancement in Ukraine’s ability to monitor and control its airspace amid ongoing Russian  invasion. Read full Defense News at this link ... Swedish ASC 890 AEW&C aircraft equipped with Erieye radar, providing long-range air surveillance and command-and-control capabilities. (Picture source: Wikimedia) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/8MSnXat via IFTTT

Focus: Germany Reaffirms Commitment to US F-35 Fighter Jet Procurement Despite Trump’s Criticism of Europe.

According to an interview with the German Press Agency (dpa), as reported by Kölnische Rundschau on March 22, 2025, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius reaffirmed Germany's commitment to the procurement of U.S.-made F-35 stealth fighter jets, dismissing speculation about weakening transatlantic defense ties under President Donald Trump. Despite recent concerns over potential U.S. control mechanisms embedded in the aircraft, Pistorius emphasized the critical role of the F-35 in strengthening both national defense and NATO obligations. Read full Defense News at this link ... The U.S.-made F-35A Lightning II will replace Germany's aging Tornado fleet, ensuring continued NATO nuclear sharing capability and advancing the Luftwaffe’s combat readiness with next-generation technology. (Picture source: Wikimedia) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/s3mI0Be via IFTTT

British Air Force CH-47 Chinook Helicopters Achieve Embarkation Qualifications Aboard HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier.

From February 24 to March 5, 2025, CH-47 Chinook helicopters from No. 27 Squadron, Royal Air Force Odiham, successfully embarked aboard HMS Prince of Wales during Exercise Hathi Pol—a major interoperability training exercise between the British Royal Navy and the British Royal Air Force (RAF). The event served as a critical milestone in validating Embarkation Qualifications (EQs) and underscored the RAF Chinook Force’s readiness to operate in a multi-domain environment. Read full Naval News at this link ... A British CH-47 Chinook helicopter from No. 27 Squadron, Royal Air Force Odiham, operates from HMS Prince of Wales during Exercise Hathi Pol, held from February 24 to March 5, 2025. This joint Royal Navy and RAF interoperability exercise aims to certify Embarkation Qualifications and demonstrate the Chinook Force’s capability to conduct operations in a multi-domain environment. (Picture source: British MoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/wyeOzLa vi...