Imaging sensors were used with precision guided weapons since the early 1970. Until recently, lack of processing power and datalink capacity have limited the use of such guidance techniques to relatively short range direct attack weapons (such as Maverick) and medium range strike missiles (such as Have Lite and SLAM). With the introduction of powerful thermal imaging sensors and signal processors, autonomous (fire and forget) missiles are now available for anti-tank uses. Similar capabilities are also provided to support standoff aerial weapons, both for autonomous and guided weapons. These weapons offer high precision, and inherent battle damage assessment capability which cannot be provided by GPS, SAL or radar directed weapons. Furthermore, EO sensors enable important functions which are becoming essential for modern warfare – such as positive, automatic or manual identification of targets, engagement of moving targets, and dynamic aimpoint selection even with autonomous weapons, with the use of target recognition and tracking (ATA/ATR). While “man in the loop” capability of EO guided weapons is extremely useful, deployment of many such weapons in simultaneous attack require significant investment in bandwidth and datalink coordination and support, which can complicate the execution.
DefenseTech Brief – May 12, 2025
Tamir Eshel - 0
In this edition of the DefenseTech Brief, we examine Europe's accelerated armored vehicle modernization efforts, contrasting them with the U.S. Army's scaling back of legacy programs. The report highlights key procurement initiatives in Greece, Romania, and the Netherlands, showcasing a strategic shift towards domestic industrial participation and advanced mechanized capabilities. This divergence underscores differing defense priorities and threat perceptions between the U.S. and its European allies.
European Armies Accelerate Armor Modernization as US Scales Back Legacy Programs
Tamir Eshel - 0
As the U.S. Army scales back its armored vehicle programs, European nations are accelerating major modernization efforts, acquiring thousands of new armored fighting vehicles across multiple platforms. This article examines key programs in Greece, Romania, and the Netherlands, highlighting recent, local industrial involvement, competing international bids, and the broader implications of diverging transatlantic defense priorities.
Rheinmetall Showcase Enhanced SSW40 Grenade Rifle at DEFEA 2025
Rheinmetall showcased its enhanced SSW40 grenade rifle at DEFEA 2025, a magazine-fed, semi-automatic 40mm launcher with advanced fire control and planned support for programmable airburst munitions. Designed for both low- and medium-velocity grenades, the SSW40 significantly expands the precision and range of squad-level firepower.
DefenseTech Financial Brief – May 5, 2025
The defense technology landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with this week's developments highlighting several interconnected trends that present significant investment opportunities across multiple domains. The fundamental shift toward low-cost, mass-produced autonomous systems represents perhaps the most disruptive market dynamic, creating opportunities for both established defense primes and specialized technology providers.
U.S. Army 2025 Restructuring: Strategic Realignment and Industrial Impact
Tamir Eshel - 0
The U.S. Army’s 2025 restructuring marks a decisive pivot—from legacy platforms to precision fires, autonomy, and rapid mobility. While this transformation opens new opportunities in missiles, drones, and sustainment tech, it also puts pressure on traditional players. We break down the winners, the exposed, and what this means for investors and defense suppliers.
DefenseTech Weekly Brief – April 28 – May 3, 2025
The defense landscape continues evolving rapidly, with emerging technologies reshaping battlefield dynamics across domains. This week's developments highlight cost-effective drone proliferation, increased artillery autonomy, extended-range strike capabilities, enhanced vehicle protection systems, and significant procurement...
Navy Advances Sea-Based Hypersonic Missile Program with Successful Cold-Gas Launch
Tamir Eshel - 0
Last week, the U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) reached a significant milestone in the development of its sea-based hypersonic capability with a successful end-to-end flight test of the 'Dark Eagle' conventional hypersonic missile...