MTQ News

The seventh edition of SOFINS, the biennial exhibition dedicated to special forces, will take place from April 1 to 3, 2025, at the Souge military camp in Gironde. Organized by the Cercle de l’Arbalète for the benefit of the Special Operations Command (COS), this event will bring together representatives of special forces from around sixty countries in a highly secure setting. Over three days, companies ranging from small enterprises to large industrial groups will present advanced technological solutions tailored to the specific needs of special operations. Read more.   SOFINS 2025 will bring together special forces from around sixty countries at the Souge military camp for a high-security exhibition showcasing cutting-edge technological solutions, hands-on equipment testing, and strategic discussions, followed by COMBATERRE, a dedicated event for the French Army focusing on future combat challenges (Picture source: SOFIN) Read full Defense news.  from World ...

As reported by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command on March 13, 2025, a Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo ship, the USNS Wally Schirra (T-AKE 8), has completed a seven-month maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) process at Hanwha Ocean’s shipyard in Geoje, South Korea. This marks the first large-scale maintenance effort of a U.S. naval vessel in a South Korean shipyard, aligning with the U.S. Navy’s strategy of conducting ship repairs within the Indo-Pacific region to minimize downtime and operational costs.  Read full defense news at this link... Like other dry cargo ships of the Lewis and Clark-class, the USNS Wally Schirra was designed to operate with a mixed civilian and military crew, resupplying naval vessels at sea with ammunition, food, spare parts, and other essential materials. (Picture source: U.S. Indo-Pacific Command) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/nFDQaOR via IFTTT

On March 17, 2025, a significant milestone was achieved in the United States Air Force’s modernization efforts with the successful first flight of the F-15EX fighter jet from Lot 2. This historic flight was documented in a video shared by Boeing Defense on its official X account, as reported by Boeing Defense on the same date. Read full Defense Aerospace News at this link ... The F-15EX Lot 2 takes to the skies in its successful first flight on March 17, 2025, marking a significant milestone in the U.S. Air Force’s modernization efforts and showcasing the advanced capabilities of Boeing’s latest fighter jet.  (Picture source: Boeing Defense) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/FCOvyGe via IFTTT

The Greek-made Leopard 1HEL upgrade is set to significantly enhance the combat capabilities of the Leopard 1A5 Main Battle Tank (MBT), ensuring that Greece's aging fleet remains a formidable force on the modern battlefield. Developed by the Greek defense company EODH, alongside DUMA and German defense giant KNDS, this comprehensive overhaul combines advancements in firepower, protection, and mobility, offering a cost-effective solution for the Greek Army. By modernizing its existing fleet of Leopard 1 tanks, Greece is set to extend its operational life and maintain a competitive edge. Read full Defense News at this link ... Greek Leopard 1HEL Tank Upgrade: Enhanced with advanced composite and slat armor, a powerful 105mm gun, and a 1000hp engine, the Leopard 1HEL boosts the firepower, protection, and mobility of Greece’s Leopard 1A5 tanks. (Picture source: EODH) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/mLU675k via IFTTT

On March 13, 2025, the U.S. Navy received the 13th Ship to Shore Connector (SSC) unit, the Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) 112, from Textron Systems. This followed acceptance trials conducted by the Navy’s Board of Inspection and Survey, which evaluated the craft’s compliance with operational and technical requirements. LCAC 112 is part of the Ship to Shore Connector (SSC) program, developed to replace the existing fleet of Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) vehicles while maintaining compatibility with amphibious operations and incorporating updates in materials, propulsion, and onboard systems.  Read full defense news at this link... The Ship to Shore Connector (SSC) program was initiated to replace the Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) fleet, which had been in service since the 1980s. (Picture source: US Navy) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/9wNzGYq via IFTTT

A recent interview with Ukrainian soldiers, published on March 14, 2025, highlights the exceptional performance and high efficiency of the German-made IRIS-T air defense missile system, which has proven to be a vital asset in Ukraine’s ongoing defense against Russian missile strikes. The soldiers shared remarkable accounts of the IRIS-T's combat capabilities, underscoring its crucial role in defending Ukrainian airspace with impressive precision. Read News Russia - Ukraine War at this link ... A German-made IRIS-T air defense missile launcher deployed by the Ukrainian Army. (Picture source: Ukraine TV) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/repkMgj via IFTTT

On March 15, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed via a Telegram post that the Ukrainian defense industry has successfully tested a new version of the Neptune anti-ship missile, now modified to strike ground targets with precision. This development marks a major leap forward in Ukraine’s missile capabilities, with the newly adapted Neptune missile reportedly capable of striking targets up to 1,000 km away. Read News Russia - Ukraine War at this link ... The Neptune is a land-based anti-ship missile system developed by Ukraine, designed to target and destroy naval warships and coastal infrastructure with precision strikes, now upgraded for ground target engagements at a range of 1,000 km. (Picture source:  Wikimedia) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/t4xbvIF via IFTTT

The Philippine Army has officially received its first VBTP-MR Guarani 6x6 Wheeled Armored Personnel Carrier (APC), marking a significant step in its modernization efforts. The vehicle, built by the Brazilian company IDV Latam in collaboration with the Italian company IVECO, was delivered in a ceremony that took place recently. This delivery of the advanced vehicle highlights the growing defense cooperation between the Philippines and Brazil, strengthening bilateral ties in the defense sector. Read full Defense News at this link ... The Philippine Army's first VBTP-MR Guarani 6x6 Wheeled Armored Personnel Carrier (APC) has been delivered. The vehicle is fitted with an Israeli Elbit Systems weapon station armed with a 30mm automatic cannon, this cutting-edge vehicle is part of a $46-million deal to deliver 28 units, strengthening the Philippine Army's operational capabilities. (Picture source: Armor Division Philippine Army) Read More from World Defence News https...

According to information published by the Japanese Press Agency Kyodo News on March 15, 2024, the Japanese government has announced plans to consider deploying long-range missiles on the southwestern island of Kyushu. This decision is part of Japan's broader efforts to enhance its "counterstrike capabilities," a crucial component of the country's defense strategy to respond more effectively to emerging threats in the region. The main reasons for this deployment include Japan’s increasing concern over China's growing military assertiveness, particularly regarding Taiwan, and the ongoing missile and nuclear threats posed by North Korea. Read full Defense News at this link ... Japan's upgraded Type-12 Anti-Ship Missile System, set to be deployed on Kyushu Island, featuring enhanced stealth and long-range precision to strengthen defense against growing threats from China and North Korea. (Picture source: Wikimedia) Read More from World Defence News...

On March 13, 2025, NBC News reported that the White House had ordered the U.S. military to draft potential options to increase American troop presence in Panama as part of President Donald Trump’s goal of "reclaiming" the Panama Canal. According to officials familiar with the planning, U.S. Southern Command (SOUTHCOM) is preparing a range of strategies, from deepening cooperation with Panamanian security forces to the more drastic measure of using military force to seize control of the vital waterway. The course of action will depend largely on the level of cooperation from Panama’s security apparatus, with military force being a last resort. Read full Defense News at this link ... A tugboat assists the U.S. Navy littoral combat ship USS Independence (LCS 2) as the ship prepares to enter the Gatun Lock during a transit of the Panama Canal. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/obIYHpc via IFTTT

The Morana is a 155mm / 52 caliber self-propelled howitzer developed and produced by Excalibur Army, a Czech defense company. This advanced artillery system is designed for high mobility, fast deployment, and effective support of operational and tactical forces. The Morana combines a fully automated loading system, sophisticated fire control, and excellent crew protection, making it an efficient and flexible artillery platform capable of delivering rapid, precise fire in a variety of operational environments. Read Morana howitzer Technical Review at this link ... The Morana is a modern wheeled self-propelled artillery howitzer, designed and manufactured by the Czech Company Excalibur Army. Featuring a 155mm caliber gun, it is capable of delivering precise and devastating strikes over long distances. Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/lptAzfL via IFTTT

The Dita 155mm Self-Propelled Howitzer is a modern, automated artillery piece developed by Excalibur Army, a Czech defense company. It represents a significant advancement in mobile artillery technology, combining precision, automation, and exceptional mobility. The Dita uses an 8x8 TATRA chassis, designed to operate with minimal crew, providing high off-road mobility and versatility. This self-propelled howitzer is optimized for rapid deployment, offering long-range fire support, quick repositioning, and excellent cross-country capabilities, making it ideal for contemporary combat scenarios. Read Dita howitzer Technical Review at this link ... The DITA is a 155mm wheeled self-propelled artillery howitzer designed and manufactured by the Czech Company Excalibur Army equipped with a fully automated loading and firing mechanism, allowing for quicker response times in the modern battlefield.  Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/bLSWPG4 via IFTTT

Canada is actively looking at potential alternatives to the U.S.-built F-35 stealth fighter and will hold conversations with rival aircraft makers, Canadian Defence Minister Bill Blair said late on March 14, 2025. This shift comes as concerns grow regarding the unpredictability of U.S. foreign policy under the U.S. President Trump administration, as well as broader strategic considerations regarding defense relationships and technological dependencies. Read full Defense News at this link ... The CF-18 Hornet fighter jet, which has been in service with the Royal Canadian Air Force since 1982, was planned to be replaced by the U.S.-built F-35 as part of Canada's defense modernization efforts. (Picture source: Canada DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/qZjeXbz via IFTTT

As reported by OedoSoldier on March 13, 2025, China is developing a new generation of amphibious infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to replace the existing Type 05 family. Recent imagery reveals a new platform that could feature an unmanned turret and an active protection system (APS). The vehicle, identified by hull number 003, appears to incorporate mobility and survivability improvements for amphibious operations.  Read full defense news at this link... The hull of the new amphibious IFV, identified by hull number 003, exhibits several changes compared to earlier models, including variations in the spacing of road wheels and modifications to the transom flap at the rear. (Picture source: Twitter/OedoSoldier) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/N0jWBe9 via IFTTT

As reported by InfoDefensa on March 11, 2025, the South African company Milkor, represented in Colombia by Kriegsgott Group SAS, showcased the capabilities of its SuperSix MRGL 40mm multiple grenade launcher at the Tolemaida Military Base. On March 12, officers, non-commissioned officers, and special units of the Colombian Army conducted live-fire tests with the latest variant of Milkor's 40mm multiple grenade launcher series. Additionally, the SuperSix's firing capacity, effective range, and reloading mechanism could enhance the Colombian infantry firepower compared to the US grenade launchers currently used by the Colombian Army.  Read full defense news at this link... The SuperSix MRGL is a semi-automatic 40mm grenade launcher with a modular and ergonomic design, capable of firing six consecutive rounds in less than three seconds, depending on the operator. (Picture source: Army Recognition) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/tS6Y4gc via IFT...

Amid a rapidly evolving strategic environment, the UK is being called upon to accelerate its defense investments significantly, particularly in drones and armored vehicles, as reported by The Times. With the ongoing war in Ukraine, tensions in the South China Sea, and persistent instability in the Middle East heightening the risk of global conflicts, the British Armed Forces are under pressure to modernize their equipment and expand their munitions stockpiles. Read more .  A Recce soldier from 1 Royal Welsh, deploys an ARES Drone, for aerial reconnaissance during  IRON STORM 23 (Picture source: UK MoD) Read full Defense news.  from World Defence News https://ift.tt/wMAZXdz via IFTTT

As reported by OnAlert on March 13, 2025, the modernization of the four Papanikolis-class submarines and the procurement of new submarines are among the programs expected to be announced by the Greek Prime Minister in Parliament on March 27, 2025. Concurrently, the first batch of 44 SeaHake Mod4 heavy torpedoes is set to arrive at the Salamis Naval Base in early summer, following significant delays attributed to supply chain disruptions.  Read full defense news at this link... The Hellenic Navy’s plan is to complete the Papanikolis-class modernization program alongside the delivery of new submarines, resulting in a fleet of nine operational submarines. (Picture source: Hellenic Navy) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/hFdoyMm via IFTTT

As surface drones gain increasing relevance in the naval domain, the French Navy has conducted trials to assess the operational potential of the DriX H8, an unmanned surface vehicle (USV) developed by the French company Exail. This initiative is part of a rapid experimentation operation (OER), funded by the French Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) and carried out by the Navy’s Naval Programs Expertise Center (CEPN) from the Toulon naval base. The objective is to evaluate the ability of naval personnel to operate this type of drone autonomously and explore potential applications for operational use. Read more .  Between March 3 and 7, CEPN personnel underwent training provided by Exail before conducting a series of tests on connectivity, maneuverability, and sensor performance (Picture source: French MoD) Read full Defense news.  from World Defence News https://ift.tt/o01Ayxv via IFTTT

As reported by Brazil Defense Brief (BDB) on February 24, 2025, the Brazilian Navy's Naval Systems Design Center (CPSN) delivered the basic engineering plan for the 500-ton offshore patrol vessel (NPa500MB) to Emgepron, a state-owned company responsible for naval projects, in late January. This step is part of the Patrol Vessel Acquisition Program (PRONAPA), which involves the domestic construction of 11 offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) with a high percentage of locally sourced components. These vessels are designed for the surveillance and protection of the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), search and rescue operations, and combating illegal activities such as illegal fishing.  Read full defense news at this link... The planned total cost for the eight NPa500MB OPVs is estimated at 2.8 billion reais (~476 million USD), while three other vessels will be specifically configured for mine countermeasures operations. (Picture source: Emgepron) Read more... from World Defence...

On March 9, 2025, the Telegram channel Military Russia shared an image of the tenth hull of the Project 12700 minesweeper, named Polyarny, indicating that the vessel is approaching the final stages of its construction at the Sredne-Nevsky Shipyard (SNSZ) in Saint Petersburg. This development is part of the ongoing expansion of Russia’s mine countermeasure fleet under the Alexandrit-class program, as initial plans called for the construction of ten ships, but later statements mentioned a total of up to 40 units.  Read full defense news at this link... The classification of the Project 12700 has changed multiple times, alternating between base and sea minesweepers, though the Polyarny is officially designated as a base minesweeper, as indicated on its keel-laying plaque. (Picture source: Telegram/MilitaryRussia) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/utUwoZR via IFTTT

On March 8, 2025, the Canadian government signed a contract with Davie Shipbuilding for the construction of a heavy polar icebreaker under the National Shipbuilding Strategy. The agreement, valued at CAD $3.25 billion, involves constructing the vessel at the Helsinki Shipyard in Finland before final assembly and delivery in Quebec. This contract is one of two recent polar icebreaker procurements by Canada, with Seaspan Shipyards in Vancouver also awarded a contract to build a separate heavy icebreaker.  Read full defense news at this link... As part of the newly awarded contract, Davie Shipbuilding will construct a Polar Max-class icebreaker, which will be based on the ARC 148 hull form developed by Aker Arctic. (Picture source: Davie Shipbuilding) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/QmIAqCR via IFTTT

According to information published by Korea JoongAng Daily on March 9, 2025, South Korea is preparing to sign a significant defense deal with Poland, set to export 180 additional K2 Black Panther main battle tanks in a deal worth approximately $6.2 billion. Government officials confirmed the new agreement on March 9, 2025, stating that the deal is expected to be finalized by April 2025. This latest contract marks another major step in the strengthening defense partnership between the two nations, continuing a trend of growing military cooperation in the wake of regional security concerns. Read full Defense News at this link .. A Polish Army K2 Black Panther tank during a training exercise, showcasing its advanced mobility, firepower, and cutting-edge technology. Poland is set to receive additional K2 tanks from South Korea as part of a multi-billion-dollar defense deal to modernize its armored forces. (Picture source: Junsupreme X account) Read More from World Defence N...

The U.S. Air Force, in partnership with Northrop Grumman Corporation, successfully completed a full-scale qualification static fire test of the new Sentinel Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) stage-one solid rocket motor at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Promontory, Utah, on March 6, 2025. This critical achievement in the development of the Sentinel missile system represents a significant step forward in ensuring the United States’ long-term nuclear deterrence capability. Read defense Aerospace News at this link ... On March 6, 2025, the U.S. Air Force and American Company Northrop Grumman Corporation successfully conducted a full-scale qualification static fire test of the Sentinel intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) stage-one solid rocket motor at Northrop Grumman’s facility in Promontory, Utah. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/35fzQN7 via IFTTT

According to information released by the U.S. Department of Defense on March 8, 2025, the U.S. Marine Corps has deployed its first F-35B squadron from the continental United States to Japan to enhance airpower capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 214, known as the Black Sheep, arrived at Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, Japan, under the Marine Corps’ Unit Deployment Program (UDP). This deployment marks a pivotal moment in the U.S. military’s strategy for strengthening its presence and operational flexibility in the increasingly contested Indo-Pacific region. Read full Naval News at this link ... U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II aircraft from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 214, Marine Aircraft Group 13, 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing, taxi along the flight line after arriving at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, on March 8, 2025. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/OphAt...

According to information from North Korea’s State News Agency on March 8, 2025, North Korea has developed a nuclear-powered strategic guided missile submarine for the first time. North Korea has officially unveiled its first nuclear-powered submarine capable of launching submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). This development was revealed during a visit by Kim Jong-un to North Korea’s major shipyards, where he inspected advancements in naval technology and the shipbuilding industry. Read full Naval News at this link ... Kim Jong-un inspects North Korea's new shipyard, showcasing the first locally-made nuclear-powered submarine, a major advancement in the nation's naval capabilities. (Picture source: North Korea press agency) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/VRrUdxL via IFTTT

According to information released by the Turkish company Baykar, the Turkish-made Bayraktar KIZILELMA, a carrier-capable, jet-powered unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV), currently in development by Baykar, successfully completed the Aerodynamics System Identification Test (ASIT) on March 6, 2025. This test, which took place at the AKINCI Flight Training and Test Center in Çorlu, Tekirdağ, was a significant milestone in the development of the advanced unmanned aerial vehicle. Read full Defense News at this link ... Bayraktar KIZILELMA, Turkey’s first indigenous unmanned fighter jet developed by Baykar, successfully completed the Aerodynamics System Identification Test as part of its scheduled testing phase. (Picture source: Baykar) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/jtsOkI5 via IFTTT

On March 7, 2025, the Ukrainian Air Force confirmed the operational deployment of Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets for the first time. The aircraft participated in repelling a Russian missile attack targeting critical infrastructure. The engagement involved multiple air defense assets, including surface-to-air missile systems, electronic warfare measures, and combat aircraft. This marks the first recorded operational use of Mirage 2000-5F aircraft by Ukraine since their transfer from France.  Read full defense news at this link... The introduction of French-supplied Mirage 2000-5F fighter jets into the Ukrainian Air Force will enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities, particularly in light of the recent suspension of U.S. military aid, including intelligence sharing and air defense support. (Picture source: NATO Allied Air Command) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/oB1QpDr via IFTTT

On March 6, 2025, the Turkish company Baykar and Italian firm Leonardo signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Rome to establish a Joint Venture for the development of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The agreement integrates Baykar’s experience in unmanned platforms with Leonardo’s expertise in mission systems, payloads, and certification. The new entity, headquartered in Italy, will work towards expanding the presence of unmanned systems in European and global defense markets.  Read full defense news at this link... The Joint Venture aims to address this demand by combining both companies’ expertise in UAVs, electronic systems, payloads, C4I (Command, Control, Communications, Computers, and Intelligence), artificial intelligence, and integrated mission systems. (Picture source: Italian MoD) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/hxnSpla via IFTTT

Citing information published on March 5, 2025, by the Brazilian Defense News Defesa Aerea & Naval, between February 26 and 27, 2025, the Brazilian Army's Manufacturing Directorate (DF) convened with defense contractor BAE Systems to discuss the national production, under license, of the 105 mm Light Gun howitzer. This meeting marks a significant step in Brazil's ongoing efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities, particularly in the area of Field Artillery modernization. Read full Defense News at this link ... A BAE Systems 105 mm Light Gun in service with the Brazilian Army, providing vital fire support for field operations. The versatile and mobile howitzer plays a key role in Brazil’s artillery modernization and strategic defense capabilities. (Picture source: Wikimedia) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/1NIPceY via IFTTT

On March 5, 2025, Northrop Grumman announced continued progress in developing the B-21 Raider, demonstrating solid performance in testing and production. This advancement strengthens the U.S. government's confidence in the program. The recent award of the Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) Lot 2 contract at the end of 2024 marks a significant milestone, highlighting the technological maturity of this next-generation stealth bomber. Designed from the outset for adaptability, affordability, and efficient production, the B-21 is intended to provide the U.S. Air Force with a strategic deterrence capability in an evolving threat environment. Read more .  The B-21 Raider is designed with an open systems architecture, enabling rapid insertion of mature technologies and allowing the aircraft to be effective as threats evolve (Picture source: US DoD) Read full Defense news.  from World Defence News https://ift.tt/OSUv0XI via IFTTT

Citing information released by the American company Anduril, Barracuda-500 from U.S. company Anduril Industries has been selected by the U.S. Air Force Armament Directorate (EB) and the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to advance to the next stage of the Enterprise Test Vehicle (ETV) prototype project. This significant step will bring the Barracuda-500 one step closer to becoming a cornerstone of future air combat and reconnaissance operations. Read full Defense Aerospace News at this link ... Anduril Industries' Barracuda-500: A next-generation autonomous air vehicle designed for modularity, rapid production, and autonomous operations, poised to revolutionize military air operations with its versatile and scalable capabilities. (Picture source: Anduril) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/0gf9Ppv via IFTTT

As reported by L'Usine Nouvelle on March 5, 2025, the French company Dassault Aviation is assessing the possibility of establishing a final assembly line for the Rafale fighter jet in India to manage increased production demands following anticipated large orders. CEO Éric Trappier stated, “India is preparing major orders, and we could certainly open a final assembly line in that country to be able to absorb this new workload.” The company is already working to increase its production capacity, with ongoing efforts to ramp up monthly Rafale deliveries while managing supply chain constraints.  Read full defense news at this link... Dassault is in the process of increasing the production rate of the Rafale fighter jet from two to three aircraft per month, and is aiming to reach four aircraft, with a potential of five depending on future orders. (Picture source: Régiment de Chasse 2/30 Normandie Niémen) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/NH5Du3y via I...

 China has deployed its most advanced long-range surveillance drone, the WZ-9 “Divine Eagle,” at Ledong Air Base on Hainan Island in the South China Sea. This move significantly enhances China’s intelligence and surveillance capabilities, contributing to Beijing’s so-called anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) strategy. Positioning the WZ-9 on Hainan Island allows it to cover key areas of interest, including the Taiwan Strait and part of the Pacific, while also providing an extended view of contested border regions. Read full news at this link... China has deployed its most advanced long-range surveillance drone, the WZ-9 Divine Eagle. (Picture source: Chinese Media) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/8UxPZ2B via IFTTT

On February 27, 2025, the U.S. Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) designated its newest light attack aircraft, the AT-802U Sky Warden, as the OA-1K Skyraider II. Developed under the U.S. Special Operations Command’s (SOCOM) Armed Overwatch program, the aircraft is based on the Air Tractor AT-802 and modified by L3Harris for close air support, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The designation references the Cold War-era A-1 Skyraider, widely used during the Vietnam War.  Read full defense news at this link... The OA-1K Skyraider II is derived from the Air Tractor AT-802U Sky Warden, a militarized version of the AT-802 agricultural and firefighting aircraft. (Picture source: AFSOC) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/6pkbDco via IFTTT

As reported by A-129 Mangusta on February 21, 2025, Italy has reportedly started the delivery of B1 Centauro 8x8 tank destroyers to Ukraine. The photograph appears to show one of the vehicles in transit, though no further details have been disclosed. There has been no official confirmation from the Italian government, but previous patterns indicate that Italian military aid to Ukraine is often identified only when equipment is observed in operational use.  Read full defense news at this link... At the time of the writing, there has been no official confirmation from the Italian government, but previous patterns indicate that Italian military aid to Ukraine is often identified only when equipment is observed in combat situation. (Picture source: Twitter/A-129 Mangusta) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/iYha8IO via IFTTT