Other Regional Defense Updates:
Afghanistan | Australia | Brunei | Bangladesh | China | India | Indonesia | Japan | Malaysia | Myanmar |
North Korea | Pakistan | Philippines | Singapore | South Korea | Sri-Lanka | Taiwan | Thailand | Vietnam.
- Defense-Update Weekly Summary Sep 13, 2024Dive into the latest global defense and military technology developments with Defense-Update Weekly News. Visit Defense-Update to dive deeper in this week’s news: Highlights: Anduril Introduces Barracuda – a New Type of Cruise Missile BAE Systems Australia Unveils ATLAS Uncrewed Collaborative Combat Vehicle (CCV) Egypt Opts for Chinese J-10C to replace its F-16s Drones vs. Drones over Ukraine This week’s news summary includes: Ukraine War Tech News Aerospace News Land Systems News Unmanned Systems News Naval Tech News Defense Business News In this episode, we cover: Get a rapid-fire update on the latest developments shaping global defense in this concise 5-minute podcast. We cover: Major defense investments in India, Japan, and the US Critical updates on the Ukraine conflict and Iran’s growing involvement Naval warfare advancements, including Japan’s F-35B carrier tests Cutting-edge autonomous systems for air, land, and sea Land warfare innovations: new missile defense and combat vehicle tech Aerospace breakthroughs, from fighter jets to AI-driven combat systems The rise of unmanned ground vehicles in modern militaries Stay informed on the latest defense technology, geopolitical shifts, and military innovations. Whether you’re a defense professional, technology enthusiast, or simply curious about global security, this update provides valuable insights into the evolving landscape of modern warfare. View last week’s episode. (Sept. 5, 2024) #DefenseTechnology #MilitaryInnovation #DroneWarfare #AviationTechnology #GlobalSecurity #DefenseIndustry #MilitaryNews For more in-depth analysis and defense updates, visit our website: https://defense-update.com DISCLAIMER: This content is for informational purposes only. All information presented is based on publicly available sources and should not be considered professional military or strategic advice.
- India Approves $17 Billion Domestic Defense Procurement Plan Sep 12, 2024India’s Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) has approved ten military procurement projects worth approximately $17 billion to enhance the country’s defense capabilities. The plan includes the acquisition of 97 Tejas Light Combat Aircraft Mk-1A, 156 Prachand combat helicopters, and over 400 new artillery systems. This significant investment aims to boost India’s domestic defense industry, reduce reliance on imports, and create job opportunities in the defense manufacturing sector. The decision aligns with India’s “Make in India” initiative, reflecting its commitment to strengthening its military capabilities while promoting indigenous defense production. Japan Proposes Record Defense Budget, Boosting Naval Power and Advanced Technologies Japan’s Ministry of Defense has proposed its largest-ever defense budget for fiscal year 2025, focusing on enhancing naval capabilities and advanced technologies. The budget includes plans for three new multirole frigates, converting helicopter carriers into light aircraft carriers, and research into submarine-launched missiles and shipboard laser systems. This record request aims to counter perceived threats from China, North Korea, and Russia, reflecting Japan’s response to regional tensions. The proposal also emphasizes developing “counterstrike capabilities” and improving Integrated Air and Missile Defense systems, signifying a notable shift in Japan’s defense strategy. U.S. Defense Budget Realigns to Reflect Ukraine War Lessons The U.S. Department of Defense is adjusting its fiscal year 2025 budget priorities based on lessons from the Russian-Ukrainian war. The priorities focus on long-range precision fires, air and missile defense, and electronic warfare. Significant investments are planned for hypersonic weapons, counter-unmanned aerial systems, artillery modernization, and critical munitions production. The budget also emphasizes space-based capabilities and cyber warfare, reflecting their growing importance in modern conflicts. These changes aim to enhance U.S. military readiness for future conflicts and address evolving global security challenges. BAE Systems Expands Electronic Warfare Capabilities with Kirintec Acquisition BAE Systems has acquired UK-based Kirintec, a company specializing in electronic warfare, counter-terrorism, and counter-threat solutions. ...
- Russian Forces Seek Countermeasures Against Ukrainian Drone-Killing UAS Sep 12, 2024UK Bolsters Ukraine’s Air Defense with 650 Advanced Missiles in £162M Deal The UK government has announced a £162 million package to supply 650 Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) to Ukraine, enhancing the country’s air defense capabilities against various aerial threats, including drones. Defence Secretary John Healey unveiled this commitment at a meeting in Ramstein, Germany, with the first batch of missiles expected to be delivered by the end of 2024. The package, primarily funded through the UK’s £3 billion annual financial support for Ukraine, is part of broader efforts to boost defense production and follows a recent Defence Export Support Treaty between the two countries. With a speed of Mach 1.5 and a range of over 6 kilometers, these versatile missiles will complement existing air defense systems and have already proven effective in destroying Russian drones. Ukraine’s PzH 2000 Howitzers Face Maintenance Challenges; Germany Promises New Deliveries and Support Due to intense combat use, Ukraine is experiencing significant maintenance issues with its German-supplied PzH 2000 howitzers, with many currently out of service. Germany is addressing these challenges by supplying replacement barrels and planning to establish a maintenance hub in Slovakia. Despite these setbacks, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has announced the delivery of an additional 12 PzH 2000 howitzers to Ukraine, worth 150 million euros, with six to be delivered by the end of 2024 and the rest in 2025. Germany and partner nations have also proposed transferring 77 Leopard 1A5 tanks to Ukraine in the future, demonstrating ongoing support for Ukraine’s defense capabilities. Ukraine Downs Advanced Russian Drone, Showcasing Tactical Innovation Ukrainian forces from the 59th Separate Motorized Infantry Brigade successfully downed a rare Russian Merlin-VR reconnaissance drone in the Donetsk region using an anti-aircraft FPV drone. The Merlin-VR, developed by Russia’s “Special Technological Center,” is an experimental drone with a 10-hour flight endurance ...
- Japan’s JS Kaga to Deploy off US Coast for Carrier Operational Testing Sep 12, 2024The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is set to conduct F-35B Lightning II aircraft tests with the modified helicopter carrier JS Kaga off the coast of San Diego, California, from October 5 to November 18, 2024. This marks a significant milestone in Japan’s efforts to enhance its naval aviation capabilities, as the JS Kaga has been modified to operate F-35B short takeoff and vertical landing aircraft. The tests, supported by U.S. forces, will evaluate the ship’s ability to function as an aircraft carrier, representing a substantial shift in Japan’s maritime defense strategy. This development is part of Japan’s broader initiative to strengthen its defense posture and respond to regional security challenges. Kongsberg’s AUV Sets Record with 29-Day Autonomous Underwater Mission Kongsberg Maritime’s HUGIN Endurance Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV) has set a new record for the longest autonomous dive, traveling 1,375 kilometers over 29 days without human intervention. The mission occurred between Norway and the UK as part of sea acceptance trials for the Norwegian Defence Research Establishment (FFI). During the dive, the AUV collected high-resolution bathymetry data and water column information, demonstrating improved power consumption and operational reliability. This achievement showcases the potential of AUVs for extended underwater operations in marine research, offshore energy, and defense applications. Elbit Systems Boosts Seagull USV with Drones and Loitering Weapons Israeli defense firm Elbit Systems has upgraded its Seagull unmanned surface vessel (USV) with drones and loitering weapon systems, enhancing its intelligence gathering and attack capabilities. The fully autonomous 12-meter USV can operate for over four days at sea and is equipped with various weapons, sensors, and countermeasures. Elbit reports high demand for the Seagull, which has been demonstrated to the US Navy’s Fifth and Sixth Fleets, despite some skepticism about USV capabilities in challenging maritime environments. Russia Arms Black Sea Submarines with Machine Guns to Counter ...
- Slovakia Modernizes its Air Defense with €554 Million Barak MX Sep 12, 2024The Slovak government has approved the purchase of six batteries of Israel Aerospace Industries’ Barak MX surface-to-air missile system for €554 million. This acquisition marks a significant upgrade from Slovakia’s Soviet-era 2K12 KUB systems, offering multi-layered defense against various aerial threats. An intergovernmental agreement is expected by October 2024, with deliveries starting in late 2025. The deal includes provisions for domestic missile production and a comprehensive support package. This modernization enhances Slovakia’s NATO interoperability and strengthens the alliance’s eastern flank. Australia Bolsters Military Mobility with AUD22M Polaris DAGOR Vehicle Contract The Commonwealth of Australia has awarded an AUD22 million (USD14.6M) contract to Polaris Australia for DAGOR off-road tactical vehicles. The Australian Defence Force will receive three variants of the vehicle: transport, expeditionary reconnaissance, and cargo, to support joint missions worldwide. Polaris will deliver the vehicles over the next two years, integrating standard and locally engineered components at their Melbourne facility. The DAGOR vehicles, designed for rapid air transportability and high payload capacity, are already used by U.S., Canadian, and European forces. This acquisition aims to enhance tactical mobility and interoperability among allied forces. U.S. Army Showcases Patria NEMO Mortar System, Advancing Armored Brigade Capabilities The U.S. Army demonstrated the Patria NEMO 120 mm Turreted Mortar System at the Maneuver Warfighter Conference in Fort Moore, Georgia, on September 10, 2024. The system, integrated into a U.S.-made Armoured Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) and Fire Direction System, successfully performed various fire missions using U.S. mortar ammunition. This demonstration marks a significant milestone in the cooperation between the U.S. Army and Patria, which began with a feasibility study in 2020. The Patria NEMO system aims to provide Armoured and Stryker Brigade Combat Teams with improved indirect and direct fire capabilities while enhancing crew protection. Thales’ 70mm Rocket System Proves Effective in C-UAS Role, Polish Production Planned Thales Belgium and Polska Amunicja ...
- Egypt Opts for Chinese J-10C Fighters Sep 12, 2024Egypt Opts for Chinese J-10C Fighters, Shifting Away from US Military Hardware Egypt has signed a deal with China to purchase J-10C fighter jets on August 19, 2024, marking a significant shift in its defense procurement strategy. The agreement makes Egypt the second international customer for the J-10C after Pakistan and aims to replace Egypt’s aging F-16 fleet with these modern multirole fighters. This decision comes after Egypt rejected offers from the United States and Russia, including a proposal to upgrade its existing F-16s to the F-16V standard. The move reflects Egypt’s efforts to diversify its military suppliers and modernize its air force capabilities, moving away from its traditional reliance on Western, particularly American, military equipment. Anduril Introduces Cost-Effective Autonomous Cruise Missiles to Boost U.S. Military Capabilities Defense technology company Anduril Industries has unveiled its new “Barracuda” family of autonomous cruise missiles, which is currently in the flight-testing phase. The family includes three variants: Barracuda-100, Barracuda-250, and Barracuda-500, each designed for different launch platforms and mission types. All variants share common subsystems and capabilities, including long-range travel, payload capacity over 100 pounds, and the ability to loiter for more than two hours. Anduril has focused on cost-effectiveness and simplified production, with the missiles requiring fewer tools and parts than traditional systems, resulting in a 30% cost reduction compared to comparable missiles. The development aims to address the U.S. military’s need for increased stockpiles of precision weapons to enhance deterrence against peer competitors. (read more) DARPA Funds BAE Systems’ AI Combat Pilot Development with $4 Million Contract DARPA has awarded BAE Systems’ FAST Labs a $4 million contract for Phase 1 of the Artificial Intelligence Reinforcements (AIR) program. The project aims to develop AI-driven autonomous systems for beyond-visual-range air combat missions using F-16 testbeds. BAE Systems will use machine learning to create simulation models of sensors, ...
- Piasecki’s Tilt-Duct VTOL Achieves First Hover Sep 12, 2024BAE Systems Australia Unveils Advanced Autonomous Combat Vehicle ATLAS CCV BAE Systems Australia has unveiled the Autonomous Tactical Light Armour System (ATLAS) Collaborative Combat Variant (CCV), an advanced 8×8 uncrewed ground vehicle for military operations. This innovative UGV offers high autonomy for on and off-road missions, featuring sophisticated sensors and a VANTAGE Automated Turret System with a 25mm Bushmaster cannon. Developed as a self-funded project with partners like Supacat and Valhalla Turrets, the ATLAS CCV can perform reconnaissance, surveillance, and direct fire engagement roles. Its modular design allows for mission-specific configurations and future upgrades, significantly advancing autonomous military systems. (Read more) Ukraine Bolsters Combat Medical Capabilities with Unmanned Evacuation Vehicles The Ukrainian Ministry of Defense has approved FoxTac unmanned evacuation and logistics transporters for military use after screening by the government’s defense innovations arm Brave1. The sophisticated four-wheeled robotic vehicle can carry up to 150 kg, operates quietly with a low profile, and is controllable from up to 700 meters away. Lt. Col. Ihor Shcherbakov of the Ukrainian Armed Forces Medical Service emphasized the system’s potential to save lives and maintain unit combat effectiveness. This adoption reflects Ukraine’s efforts to integrate advanced technologies into its military operations, particularly for enhancing battlefield medical response capabilities amid ongoing conflict. Piasecki’s Tilt-Duct VTOL Achieves First Hover, Advancing Military Aviation Technology Piasecki Aircraft successfully conducted two 1-minute tethered hover tests of its Aerial Reconfigurable Embedded System (ARES) demonstrator on September 6, 2024, in Essington, Pennsylvania. The innovative tilt-duct VTOL aircraft was tested both as a standalone flight module and with the U.S. Army’s Mobile Multiple Mission Module attached, showcasing its stability and adaptability. This milestone is part of Piasecki’s $37 million contract with the U.S. Air Force and Army to develop ARES as an autonomous platform for missions like casualty evacuation and cargo resupply. Anduril and Oracle Join Forces to ...
- U.S. Army Selects New Small UAS for Company-Level Operations Sep 12, 2024The U.S. Army has taken a significant step forward in modernizing its reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities at the company level. In a recent announcement, the Army revealed its selection of two Small Uncrewed Aircraft Systems (SUAS) to meet its Company-Level Small Uncrewed Aircraft System Directed Requirement. The chosen systems are the Ghost X, developed by Anduril Industries, and the C-100 UAS from Performance Drone Works (PDW). This selection marks the first tranche of the Directed Requirement (DR), with a contract value of $14.417 million. The Army will acquire these systems through the Defense Logistics Agency’s Tailored Logistics Support 10-Year Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. The Company Level SUAS DR, approved in June 2023, aims to equip maneuver companies with rapidly reconfigurable and attritable payload systems. These drones will enhance the Army’s ability to conduct reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition missions at the company level. The selection of commercial off-the-shelf systems is designed to meet immediate operational needs while informing future requirements. Notably, the Army received additional funding from the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to accelerate this program. Both selected systems have been vetted for compliance with the 2020 National Defense Authorization Act. They are listed on DIU’s Blue List of commercial UAS technology approved for Department of Defense use. “The Directed Requirement for a Company Level Small UAS capability is a priority requirement based on observations from the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza,” said Gen. James Rainey, Commanding General of U.S. Army Futures Command. “This requirement describes the importance of considering the UAS as a system, not just an air vehicle, and highlights the importance of adaptability.” The rapid selection process, completed within five months of the initial notification, demonstrates the Army’s commitment to agile acquisition in emerging technology areas. This development is seen as a prime example of the Army’s efforts to ...
- Barracuda: A New Family of Low-Cost Autonomous Cruise Missiles from Anduril Sep 12, 2024Anduril Industries has recently introduced its new “Barracuda” family of autonomous cruise missiles, addressing air forces’ need for affordably increased stockpiles of precision weapons. The Barracuda missiles are currently in the company flight-testing phase. This development comes as the U.S. military seeks to enhance its deterrence against peer competitors, particularly in potential conflicts with China. The Barracuda family consists of three variants: The Barracuda family consists of three members, each with unique characteristics. The smallest, the Barracuda-100, is designed for air launch and high-volume missions. Its sibling, the Barracuda-250, offers a middle ground in size and capability. The largest in the trio, the Barracuda-500, stands out with its adaptability to swarm attacks using cargo launch design. Despite their differences, all three Barracudas share common subsystems that set them apart in bespoke-designed cruise missiles. They can travel long distances, carry payloads over 100 pounds, maneuver up to 5Gs, and loiter in the air for more than two hours. Anduril’s engineers explained that these capabilities allow for a wide range of mission types, from gathering intelligence to engaging targets with kinetic or other effects. Barracuda-100: The smallest variant, with a range of 85 nm and a payload of 35 pounds, is designed for high-volume, low-cost missions. It can be launched from the ground or by rail launch from attack helicopters, tail dropped from C-130 transport aircraft, or launched from the air, which shortens its operational range to 60 nm. Barracuda-250: This medium-sized variant, carrying the same warhead as the 100, is also air-launched, offering a balance between size and capability. This version extends the range to 200 nm for air-launched versions or 150 for surface-launched versions. It is designed for internal carriage on all types of F-35 and bombers or externally carried by multirole strike fighters (F15, F16, F18E/F). It can also be launched from the ground ...
- BAE Systems Australia Unveils an Uncrewed Collaborative Combat Vehicle – the ATLAS Sep 11, 2024BAE Systems Australia has introduced a wheeled uncrewed ground vehicle (UGV) designed to support dismounted and mechanized forces in combat. The Autonomous Tactical Light Armour System (ATLAS) Collaborative Combat Variant (CCV) is an 8×8 UGV that boasts high levels of autonomy for both on and off-road operations. The new vehicle complements crewed vehicles such as infantry fighting vehicles and main battle tanks, offering military commanders enhanced tactical flexibility while prioritizing soldier safety. Andrew Gresham, Managing Director of Defence Delivery at BAE Systems Australia, emphasized the vehicle’s strategic importance: “ATLAS will enable the Australian Army to be fit to fight in the littoral environment. It will help the soldier outpace, out-maneuver, and out-think conventional and unconventional threats.” The ATLAS CCV is designed to perform a wide range of combat and combat support roles, significantly enhancing the capabilities of traditional main force efforts. Its versatility allows it to supplement crewed vehicles and in stand-alone missions where an uncrewed presence is preferred. One of the ATLAS CCV’s key strengths lies in its combination of a proven high-mobility, high-agility chassis, and running gear, coupled with the low-profile 25mm gun VANTAGE Automated Turret System (ATS). This integration, along with cutting-edge autonomy, navigation, and command and control systems, enables the vehicle to seamlessly accompany other combat vehicles on the battlefield, contributing meaningfully to mission success across various roles. The ATLAS CCV has armored sections to protect sensitive elements such as its autonomy core and ammunition storage. As an uncrewed platform, ATLAS can be teleoperated, execute ‘follow-me’ missions following soldiers or other vehicles, navigate a course of action following predesignated waypoints while avoiding obstacles it detects on the way, or plan and perform goal-based missions. This autonomy is performed without direct human involvement but is supervised by the operator. Reconnaissance and Surveillance Equipped with advanced E/O and acoustic sensors as standard, including a ...
