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LandEuro 2025: Venator Technologies' new AngryCat interceptor drone to enhance Ukraine’s defense against Russian UAVs

At the German LandEuro 2025 exhibition, the company Fenek displayed the AngryCat, an interceptor drone developed by the Ukrainian company Venator Technologies. The primary purpose of the AngryCat is to neutralize hostile UAVs, particularly targeting drones such as the Shahed, Lancet, Orlan, and Zala. The AngryCat can operate autonomously with guidance systems including radar, sound sensors, and video/thermal imaging cameras. It is also capable of functioning as a kamikaze drone, engaging ground targets once they are identified, making it versatile in both interception and strike operations.  Read full defense news at this link... With a payload capacity of 1 kg and a total flight weight of 12 kg, the AngryCat interceptor drone has a cruising speed of 250 km/h, while operating at altitudes up to 4,500 meters. (Picture source: Army Recognition) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/6ce3OiG via IFTTT

Taiwan deploys new HF-3ER anti-ship missiles to threaten Chinese warships well beyond previous limits

As noted by Taepodong on July 15, 2025, Taiwan’s extended-range Hsiung Feng III (HF-3ER) supersonic anti-ship missile was publicly deployed for the first time during the Han Kuang 41 exercises, held from July 9 to 18, 2025. On the same day, President Lai Ching-te visited a site in the Bali District of New Taipei where at least four HF-3ER mobile launchers were positioned, accompanied by a Navy communications relay vehicle. The location, near Taipei Port, was surrounded by security personnel from the presidential detail, naval coastal defense units, and light tactical vehicles from the Army’s Joint Operations Command.  Read full defense news at this link... The development of the HF-3ER missile required the redesign of the launch canisters, which now feature 21 reinforcement ribs compared to the 18 on the standard model. (Picture source: CNA) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/7liKOd4 via IFTTT

Canada’s new Arctic ship HMCS Frédérick Rolette arrives in Florida for first foreign visit since commissioning

On July 14, 2025, HMCS Frédérick Rolette, the fifth Harry DeWolf-class Arctic and Offshore Patrol Vessel (AOPV) of the Royal Canadian Navy, arrived at Naval Station Mayport in Florida for its first international port visit since commissioning. The ship was officially commissioned on June 13, 2025, during a ceremony held at Wharf 22 of the Port of Québec. This scheduled port call followed earlier domestic and ceremonial transits, including stops in Saguenay and New York City, and provided an operational opportunity for joint engagement between Royal Canadian Navy and United States Navy personnel. During the visit, the vessel entered the basin under favorable navigational and environmental conditions, facilitating planned bilateral activities focused on interoperability, procedural exchanges, and demonstrations of maritime surveillance, search and rescue capabilities, and maritime security operations.  Read full defense news at this link... The HMCS Frédérick Rolette will con...

Exclusive: Russia develops new assault tank armed with 152mm howitzer to maximize firepower against fortified targets

On June 18, 2025, a Russian patent filed by a team of engineers affiliated with the Yuri Gagarin State Technical University in Saratov described a new concept for a heavily modified assault tank. The patent outlines the integration of a short-barreled 152 mm low-ballistic gun, a remote-controlled weapon station with a 30 mm automatic cannon and rocket infantry flamethrowers, an active laser countermeasure system, onboard reconnaissance UAVs, and bulldozer equipment fitted with dynamic protection. The design aims to improve the combat efficiency of Russian tanks in urban, mountainous, and high-threat environments by adapting existing T-72, T-80, T-90, and T-14 platforms into multifunctional vehicles for reconnaissance, breaching, support fire, and counter-drone defense roles.  Read full defense news at this link... This assault tank integrates a remotely operated weapon station, active and passive protection systems, and a laser-based countermeasure system to address threats...

US Air Force conducts first-ever deployment of F-35 fighter jets in Philippines as response to Chinese naval incursions

On July 7, 2025, the US Air Force deployed several F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter jets to Philippine territory for the first time. The arrival of these fifth-generation fighters took place at Clark Air Base in Pampanga as part of the bilateral Cope Thunder Philippines 25-2 aerial combat exercise. The exercise will continue until July 18, 2025, and include flights over Basa Air Base and designated aerial training areas in Northern Luzon. According to official reports, the exercise involves more than 2,500 personnel, including approximately 225 U.S. Pacific Air Forces crew and 2,301 Philippine Air Force (PAF) personnel. The deployment coincided with the second phase of Cope Thunder 2025, which resumed Philippine-based training in 2023 after a three-decade hiatus, and was integrated into the Department of the Air Force's Pacific Department-Level Exercise (DLE) series.  Read full defense news at this link... During the Cope Thunder 25-2 exercise, the F-35A will conduct simu...

Breaking News: Germany plans to acquire US Typhon missile systems to strengthen air defense against Russian missiles

On July 14, 2025, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius confirmed during his visit to Washington that Germany had officially submitted a request to purchase US-made Typhon missile systems, as later reported by the Deutsche Press Agency. The announcement followed meetings with US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and comes amid Germany's efforts to increase deterrence capabilities. Pistorius acknowledged that the Typhon’s range of up to 2,500 kilometers would technically allow strikes into Russian territory, but emphasized that the system would serve exclusively as a defensive measure in the event of a conventional first strike. According to Pistorius, the purchase has not yet been finalized, but Hegseth reacted positively to the proposal.  Read full defense news at this link... The Typhon, which is positioned as a mid-tier solution between short-range tactical missiles and high-end hypersonic assets, leverages large existing stockpiles of SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles. (Pict...

UK’s $477 Million AI Submarine Drone Factory Aims to Reinforce Undersea Deterrence Amid Russian Threats

 On July 8, 2025, the United Kingdom confirmed plans to establish a state-of-the-art underwater drone production facility in Plymouth, marking a significant step forward in its maritime defense strategy. This new “Resilience Factory,” developed in partnership with German defense AI specialist Helsing and representing an investment of £350 million (approximately $477 million), illustrates London’s intent to bolster undersea security as tensions continue in the North Atlantic and Arctic. As reported by Defence-UA, the project has already attracted regional attention, underlining the UK’s ambition to maintain an edge in AI-driven maritime operations.  Read Full Defense News At this link.  The factory is expected to deliver hundreds of drones initially, with the capacity to scale output into the thousands in the coming years. This investment demonstrates the UK’s commitment to technological innovation and allied cooperation as essential tools for securing maritime bord...

Russia deploys first upgraded TOS-1A Solntsepyok thermobaric launcher on T-80 tank chassis in Ukraine

On July 11, 2025, footage shared by Frontline_PVT confirmed for the first time the combat deployment of the TOS-1A Solntsepyok heavy flamethrower system mounted on a T-80 tank chassis. Although reports of this configuration dated back to August 2024, no battlefield imagery had surfaced until this date, when video evidence showed the platform moving into position and launching a thermobaric salvo. As reported by Will Knowler, it confirms that Omsktransmash is producing TOS vehicles on both T-72 and T-80 chassis concurrently.  Read full defense news at this link... The T-80 provides 1,250 horsepower via the GTD-1250 engine and achieves a reverse speed of 11 km/h, an improvement over the T-72 chassis that offered 840 horsepower and 4 km/h in reverse. (Picture source: Telegram/Frontline_PVT) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/aGVXctk via IFTTT

South Korea completes CIWS-II facility to move away from US-made systems for short-range protection

On June 26, 2025, the South Korean company LIG Nex1 announced that it had completed its new production and testing infrastructure for the CIWS-II close-in weapon system at its Gumi complex in North Gyeongsang Province. The opening ceremony was attended by company CEO Shin Ik-hyun, senior representatives from the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA), the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality (DTaQ), all three military branches, local authorities, and cooperating companies.  Read full defense news at this link... The CIWS-II is intended to provide short-range point defense on naval platforms against low-flying anti-ship missiles and other close-in threats that bypass outer layers of protection. (Picture source: LIG Nex1) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/uDm5XBx via IFTTT

ALERT: Philippine Navy guided missile frigate BRP Miguel Malvar enters trial phase for operational deployment.

According to information published by the Philippine News Agency on July 10, 2025, the Philippine Navy has begun the Operational Readiness and Capability Tests (ORACT) of its latest guided missile frigate, BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), as a mandatory step before it enters full operational service. These trials are designed to rigorously assess the warfighting competence of the ship and its crew across the full spectrum of naval warfare, in accordance with the Philippine Navy’s doctrinal and operational standards. Read full Naval News at this link ... The Philippine Navy’s new guided missile frigate BRP Miguel Malvar, delivered in 2025, is preparing for operational deployment as it undergoes a comprehensive evaluation of its combat systems and crew readiness. (Picture source: Philippine Navy) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/OjhK5fE via IFTTT

Technology: Turkish Arpan 155 8x8 howitzer conducts live firing test competing with modern artillery systems.

According to information published by SavunmaSanayiST.com on July 12, 2025, and following a video released by the Turkish company ASFAT, the newly developed Arpan 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzer has successfully completed a series of firing qualification tests, demonstrating performance beyond initial expectations. Developed through a joint initiative by ASFAT, ASELSAN, MKE, and BMC, the Arpan 155 achieved an unprecedented firing rate of 8 rounds per minute, surpassing the 6-round-per-minute benchmark defined in the program's qualification phase. Read full Defense News at this link ... Turkish Arpan 155 8x8 155mm self-propelled howitzer during live firing test demonstrating high rate of fire and precision. (Picture source: ASFAT) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/EBiqspv via IFTTT

Breaking News: China begins J-35 fighter jets production for deployment on Fujian aircraft carrier raising Indo-Pacific threats.

China has officially begun serial production of its fifth-generation stealth fighter aircraft, the J-35, a platform engineered specifically for operations aboard the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s third aircraft carrier, the Type 003 Fujian. This decisive move marks a major leap forward in China’s long-term ambitions to build a modern blue-water navy and exert power across the Indo-Pacific maritime space. The J-35, also referred to as the carrier-based FC-31 variant, will form the core of the air wing for the Fujian, a next-generation flat-top warship featuring electromagnetic catapult launch systems, a feature currently exclusive to the United States Navy. Read full Naval News at this link ... Chinese J-35 fifth-generation stealth fighter jet seen on the deck of the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier during sea trials as Beijing advances carrier-based air power in the Indo-Pacific region. (Picture source: Chinese Social Network) Read More from World Defence News https://...

Defense Alert: U.S. Government Prioritizes Locally-Made Drone Production to Address Future Combat Needs.

According to information published by the U.S. Department of Defense on July 11, 2025, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has signed a landmark memorandum eliminating long-standing policy restrictions that have slowed the development and deployment of American-made drones for military use. The decision follows a recent executive order signed by U.S. President Donald J. Trump aimed at revitalizing the U.S. drone manufacturing base and establishing a secure, domestic supply chain for unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Read full Defense News at this link ... U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth observes a drone demonstration at the Pentagon on July 10, 2025, showcasing his new initiative to accelerate U.S. military drone dominance through expanded domestic production and battlefield integration. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/s4HjYE9 via IFTTT

U.S. Navy Completes Two Decades of Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship with USS Pierre Delivery

According to information published by the U.S. Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), on July 11, 2025, the service has officially taken delivery of the future USS Pierre (LCS 38) from Austal USA’s shipyard in Mobile, Alabama. This marks a historic milestone as Pierre becomes the 19th and final vessel of the Independence-variant Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) class, concluding over two decades of a sustained and complex shipbuilding effort involving U.S. Navy leadership, industrial partners, and acquisition teams. Read full Naval News at this link ... The future USS Pierre (LCS 38) conducts sea trials in Mobile, Alabama, in June 2025. Pierre is the 19th and final ship, marking the completion of the Independence-variant littoral combat ship (LCS) construction phase. (Picture source: Austal USA) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/cvBY1Qx via IFTTT

Breaking News: U.S. Air Force validates F-16 and F-15EX fighter jets human-machine teaming with XQ-58A drone.

According to information published by the U.S. Air Combat Command on July 8, 2025, the U.S. Air Force has achieved a significant milestone in the evolution of future airpower by conducting a manned-unmanned teaming flight exercise involving semi-autonomous XQ-58A Valkyrie drones. The demonstration took place at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, where pilots from an F-16C Fighting Falcon and an F-15E Strike Eagle fighter jets each controlled two Valkyrie platforms during a live air combat scenario. This test marked one of the most advanced integrations of autonomous collaborative platforms (ACPs) into U.S. military training operations to date. Read full Defense Aerospace News at this link ... U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jet teams with XQ-58A Valkyrie drone during live air combat demonstration. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/FfXADNQ via IFTTT

US Army to Equip Soldiers Worldwide with Advanced Danish Wearable Counter-Drone Systems for

 On 3rd of July, 2025, the US Army expands modular drone defense as MyDefence secures historic $26M C-UAS contract, marking a decisive push to equip soldiers with wearable counter-drone systems on a global scale. As reported by MyDefense Company, this milestone agreement comes amid escalating drone threats and reflects Washington’s commitment to protect troops operating in increasingly contested airspace. The Danish firm’s breakthrough deal not only strengthens transatlantic defense ties but also underscores the growing role of agile counter-UAS solutions in modern warfare.  Read Full defense News at this link.  The US Army’s investment in wearable, scalable counter-drone solutions signals a fundamental adaptation to the modern battlefield (Picture source: MyDefense) from World Defence News https://ift.tt/vBKzVbf via IFTTT

Italy begins development of Herakles railgun demonstrator for hypersonic strikes and orbital launches

As reported by Marco Florian Geo on July 9, 2025, the Italian Ministry of Defense officially approved on June 27, 2025, the launch of the second phase of the Herakles program, an ambitious initiative aimed at developing a hypersonic electromagnetic railgun system for both terrestrial and space applications. The second phase follows the completion of the first phase, which began on October 5, 2023, and concluded positively. The contract for the new phase was assigned by General Angelo Assorati to the company Kairospace via a negotiated procedure, due to the company’s prior involvement and technical qualifications. Funding for this phase totals €896,700 for 2026, with 50 percent financed by the Ministry of Defense and 50 percent by the contractor.  Read full defense news at this link... Electromagnetic railguns operate by accelerating projectiles along two parallel conductive rails using high-intensity electric currents that generate magnetic fields, producing muzzle velociti...

Taiwan conducts first live-fire exercise with US-made M1A2T Abrams tanks amid rising Chinese activity

On July 10, 2025, the Taiwanese Army conducted the first live-fire drill involving its newly acquired M1A2T main battle tanks at the Kengzikou training range in Hsinchu County. Four tanks from the initial batch of 38 delivered in December 2024 by the United States were deployed. The exercise was held in conjunction with the ongoing Han Kuang 41 military exercises but was not officially listed as part of the core live-fire segment. The tanks performed firing procedures from stationary positions and while on the move, engaging both moving and static targets. They fired individually, in pairs, and in a platoon formation. President Lai Ching-te was present at the event and stated that enhanced strike capabilities and mobility contributed to national security. According to the Army, the tanks achieved full firing accuracy during the training.  Read full defense news at this link... The M1A2T retains a 120mm M256 smoothbore main gun capable of firing APFSDS and HEAT rounds, inclu...

Arrival of modernized F-16 fighter jets in South Korea enhances U.S. Air Force Indo-Pacific combat posture.

According to information published by the U.S. Air Force 51st Fighter Wing on July 8, 2025, a new fleet of upgraded F-16 Fighting Falcons arrived at Osan Air Base in the Republic of Korea between June 26 and 27. This strategic deployment of enhanced airframes from the 35th Fighter Wing, Misawa Air Base in Japan, represents a major modernization milestone for the 51st Fighter Wing and reinforces the United States' frontline air combat presence on the Korean Peninsula. Read full Defense Aerospace News at this link ... An F-16 Fighting Falcon taxis at Osan Air Base in the Republic of Korea on June 26, 2025, marking a key milestone in the ongoing modernization of the 51st Fighter Wing’s fleet and reinforcing the U.S. Air Force’s commitment to enhanced combat readiness and operational strength across the Indo-Pacific region (Picture source: U.S. Air Force 51st Fighter Wing) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/DZvpjhQ via IFTTT

France's Massive 1,000 AI Drone Deal to Transform Military Training and Deterrence

 On July 3, 2025, France’s massive AI drone deal set to shape battlefield training and readiness marks a decisive step in modernizing the French Army’s capabilities. In a move that signals a profound trust in emerging defense tech, Paris-based startup Harmattan AI has been awarded a multi-million-euro contract to deliver 1,000 AI-enabled micro-drones for the French forces. These drones are expected to enhance operational training ahead of the Orion 2026 multinational exercise. As reported by Harmattan AI, the agreement underscores the growing reliance on AI-driven, software-defined systems to maintain strategic advantage in increasingly contested environments.  Read Full Defense news at this link.  As France prepares its forces for the next generation of operations, this landmark deal signals a bold commitment to local innovation and technological self-reliance, an approach that could become the new standard for European defense procuremen (Picture source: Harmatt...

Breaking News: Sweden’s $500 Million Artillery Munition Deal Marks Record Order Signals NATO’s Renewed Rearmament

  On July 8, 2025, Sweden’s record-breaking order of artillery shells marks a decisive shift in NATO’s rearmament strategy amid hard lessons learned from the war in Ukraine, as reported by Dagens Industri. After decades of limited stockpiles, Stockholm is now investing over 5 billion kronor ($520 Million) in new artillery shells and propellant charges from Germany’s Rheinmetall and Norway’s Nammo. This procurement, the largest of its kind since the Cold War, comes as the ongoing conflict in Ukraine reveals just how quickly modern armies deplete their ammunition reserves in high-intensity combat. For Sweden, which formally joined NATO last year, this step is not just about replenishing aging stockpiles but about strengthening its contribution to the Alliance’s collective defense posture. Read Full Defense news at this link. Sweden’s unprecedented artillery order marks a turning point for its defense posture and highlights a broader NATO trend: building credible stockpiles t...

Breaking News: U.S. confirms Argentina's acquisition of F-16 fighter jets and Stryker armored vehicles.

According to information published by the U.S. Department of Defense on July 2, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held a high-level meeting at the Pentagon with Argentina’s Minister of Defense Luis Petri to reinforce bilateral defense relations and address regional security concerns. Secretary Hegseth praised Argentina’s commitment to defense modernization, particularly its acquisition of U.S.-origin F-16 fighter jets and Stryker 8x8 armored vehicles, which he described as a pivotal milestone in advancing interoperability between the two nations' armed forces. Read full Defense News at this link ... U.S. F-16 fighter jet and an M1126 Stryker armored vehicle, two key platforms included in Argentina’s recent acquisition deal with the United States as part of a broader defense modernization effort supported by the United States. (Picture source: Editing Army Recognition Group) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/VqmjSZg via IFTTT

Boeing's $61 Million Deal Turns P-8A Poseidon from Patrol to Strike Jet with High-Altitude Torpedoes

  On July 2, 2025, Boeing’s new $61.2 million contract to deliver additional High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare Weapon Capability (HAAWC) modules marks a significant expansion in the U.S. Navy’s long-range anti-submarine warfare potential. The award, reported by GOVCONWIRE, builds on a multi-year agreement designed to keep the Navy’s fleet of P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft at the forefront of underwater threat detection and neutralization. By extending the engagement envelope against hostile submarines, this move highlights a pivotal shift towards more survivable, persistent operations at sea. As underwater threats become more sophisticated, such improvements are critical to maintaining maritime dominance. Read Full defense news at this link. As Boeing scales production under this latest contract, the U.S. Navy’s P-8A Poseidon fleet gains not only improved lethality but also greater survivability and endurance, advantages that will shape the undersea battlespace ...

US Air Force selects F-22 Raptor as first fighter jet to command autonomous drones in combat operations

On June 27, 2025, the US Air Force approved a new modification program to enable its fifth-generation F-22 Raptor stealth fighters to control Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), commonly known as drone wingmen. As outlined in its Fiscal Year 2026 budget justification, this new initiative, named the Crewed Platform Integration (CPI) program, allocates $15.048 million for a first phase procurement, installation, training, and support effort. This effort includes acquiring and installing cockpit kits comprised of tablets, communication cables, and associated system integration materials. The program is classified under ID Code B, denoting it as not yet service-ready.  Read full defense news at this link... This kit is expected to increase the combat flexibility and reach of the F-22 Raptor in contested environments by allowing it to deploy and command aerial drones for tasks such as electronic warfare, reconnaissance, or strike missions. (Picture source: US Air Force) R...

Exclusive Report: U.S. Army to turn HIMARS Rocket Launcher into hypersonic strike system with Blackbeard GL missile.

In June 2025, the U.S. Army initiated a transformative leap in artillery modernization with the funding and technical development of the Blackbeard Ground Launch (GL) hypersonic missile, intended for integration into the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS). Developed by Castelion Corporation, a defense startup founded by former SpaceX engineers, Blackbeard GL is designed to provide the U.S. military with a cost-effective, fast-response precision strike capability over distances of up to 800 kilometers. This effort marks a significant evolution in tactical fires doctrine, merging the mobility and versatility of HIMARS with the lethal speed and survivability of hypersonic technology. Read full Defense News at this link ... Live firing test of the Blackbeard GL hypersonic missile developed for launch from the U.S. Army HIMARS rocket launcher system. (Picture source: U.S. DoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/7ELdDCB via IFTTT

Exclusive: South Korea plans to acquire 36 more U.S. AH-64E Apache attack helicopters amid rising tensions.

According to information published by the South Korean Yonhap News Agency on July 6, 2025, South Korea plans to purchase 36 additional AH-64E Apache Guardian attack helicopters from the United States. The new acquisition reflects Seoul’s commitment to expanding its advanced rotary-wing combat capabilities amid evolving regional security challenges and growing concerns over North Korea's military posture. Read full Defense News at this link ... A South Korean Army AH-64E Apache Guardian on the ground, as the country already operates 36 units and plans to acquire 36 more to expand its attack helicopter fleet. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/Ob72uDL via IFTTT

Germany negotiates with U.S. for Patriot air defense systems for Ukraine following recent Russian airstrikes.

According to information published by Bloomberg on July 4, 2025, Germany has entered intensive negotiations to secure additional Patriot air defense missile systems for Ukraine, responding to an urgent operational gap following the United States’ recent decision to pause deliveries of critical weapon systems. The initiative comes as Ukraine faces an intensification of Russian drone and missile strikes, including the largest aerial assault on Kyiv since the conflict began. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz’s administration is pursuing multiple channels to meet Ukraine’s immediate air defense needs, with the possibility of purchasing Patriot systems directly from the U.S. for transfer to Ukraine now firmly under consideration. Read full Defense News at this link ... A U.S. Patriot air defense missile system critical to Ukraine’s survival against intensified Russian airstrikes Germany seeks additional units to fill the gap left by the US pause in missile deliveries and reinforce pro...

Tourville Suffren-class attack submarine enters service enhancing underwater capabilities of French Navy.

According to information published by the French Ministry of Armed Forces on July 4, 2025, the French Navy has officially inducted the Suffren-class or Barracuda-class nuclear-powered attack submarine Tourville into active service. This marks the third unit of the Barracuda-class submarines, also known as the Suffren-class, to enter service. The submarine joins the previously commissioned Suffren and Duguay-Trouin as part of a strategic effort to modernize and expand France’s undersea warfare capabilities through a fleet of six advanced nuclear-powered attack submarines. Read full Naval News at this link ... French Navy's Tourville Suffren-class attack submarine pictured during sea trials before commissioning. (Picture source: French MoD) Read More from World Defence News https://ift.tt/UC0mwtX via IFTTT

Exclusive: Russia launches potential spy ship Vice-Admiral Burilichev for operations near NATO submarine cables

As reported by Korabel on July 1, 2025, Russia launched the oceanographic research vessel Vice-Admiral Burilichev at the Vyborg Shipyard, a facility operating under the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC). Though officially described as an oceanographic research ship designed for scientific and rescue missions, the vessel has drawn attention in Western defense circles as a potential intelligence-gathering platform due to its affiliation with the Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research (GUGI) under the Russian Ministry of Defense. GUGI is a specialized military organization believed to conduct underwater reconnaissance and seabed operations. The launch ceremony took place likely in late June 2025, without media coverage or official publicity, which has contributed to continued speculation about the vessel’s intended mission profile.  Read full defense news at this link... The addition of the Project 22011 vessel Vice-Admiral Burilichev reinforces Russia’s strategy of maintai...

Egyptian General confirms deployment of Chinese HQ-9B air defense missile system to track stealth fighters

As reported by Military Africa on July 2, 2025, Egypt has acknowledged its deployment of the Chinese HQ-9B long-range surface-to-air missile system, confirming a procurement that had been subject to speculation since 2017. The announcement came from retired Major General Samir Farag during an interview on Sada El-Balad TV, where he stated that Egypt’s air defense network includes modern systems such as the HQ-9B, described as comparable to the Russian S-400. This follows earlier reports that Egypt was operating the system, including observations of logistical movements involving Egyptian Il-76MF aircraft returning from China via Pakistan in July 2025. The HQ-9B is now officially acknowledged as a component of Egypt’s multi-layered air defense system, which includes Russian, Western, and now Chinese assets.  Read full defense news at this link... Mounted on Taian 8x8 trucks, the HQ-9B possesses a maximum engagement range of up to 260 kilometers, while its effective intercept...

Peru confirms purchase of 24 Swedish Gripen E/F fighter jets over French Rafale and US F-16

As reported by Peru21 on July 2, 2025, the Peruvian government, under President Dina Boluarte, has confirmed its decision to acquire 24 Gripen E/F fighter jets from Swedish manufacturer Saab, at an estimated cost of $3.5 billion. The selection concludes a multi-year evaluation process involving various international manufacturers and marks the beginning of a two-phase procurement program to replace the aging fleets of Mirage 2000 and MiG-29 aircraft operated by the Fuerza Aérea del Perú (FAP). The first phase will be financed by a $2 billion domestic loan from Banco de la Nación already included in the 2025 national budget, while the second phase, valued at $1.5 billion, is scheduled for 2026.  Read full defense news at this link... The Swedish Gripen E was selected over the American F-16 Block 70 and French Rafale F4, by offering a lower unit cost, shorter delivery timeline, and more favorable offset terms. (Picture source: Swedish Air Force) Read more... from Worl...

US Budget Proposal Seeks F-22 Raptor Stealth Jet Upgrades to Protect Air Dominance

 Lockheed Martin’s F-22 Raptor fighter jet is confirmed to receive major upgrades under the proposed FY2026 budget plan to ensure its sustained edge in air dominance operations, according to the U.S. Air Force Financial Management and Comptroller. Despite the emergence of sixth-generation designs, the Air Force’s dedicated $90 million budget aims to extend the Raptor’s relevance. This move underscores a broader strategy to protect critical stealth assets against evolving threats from China and Russia. It highlights a firm commitment to bridging the gap until Next Generation Air Dominance systems mature.  Read full defense News at this link.  The planned FY2026 viability upgrade marks a clear signal that the F-22 remains a backbone of U.S. air dominance doctrine (Picture source: U.S. Air Force) from World Defence News https://ift.tt/xebSkjs via IFTTT

Argentina signs agreement with US for Stryker armored vehicles to modernize its mechanized infantry

On July 2, 2025, Argentine Minister of Defense Luis Petri and U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth signed a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) at the Pentagon for the acquisition of Stryker 8x8 armored personnel carriers (APCs) for the Argentine Army. According to official statements, the Stryker acquisition is intended to contribute to the recovery of Argentina’s strategic military capacities. The agreement follows a series of recent initiatives, including the acquisition of F-16 multirole fighter jets, and aims to further develop Argentina’s relationship with the United States in the field of defense cooperation.  Read full defense news at this link... No specific number of vehicles has been confirmed in the agreement, but the U.S. previously offered a package of 27 Stryker APCs to Argentina. (Picture source: US DoD) Read more... from World Defence News https://ift.tt/djDWCBT via IFTTT