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- Defense-Update Weekly News Summary Oct 6, 2024
Welcome to the latest episode of Defense-Update News Summary! In this episode, we dive into this week’s developments in defense technology, military acquisitions, and strategic partnerships worldwide. Some of this week’s highlights include: Elbit Systems secures a $400M contract for aerial bomb manufacturing Leidos Unveils the “Black Arrow,” a Small Cruise Missile in development U.S. Army Awards Two Contracts for Enhanced S-MET Increment II UGV Prototypes Major naval developments from BAE Systems and Naval Group View last week’s episode. (Sept. 26, 2024) For more in-depth analysis and defense updates, visit our website: https://defense-update.com - Israel Revamps Aerial Bomb Production Oct 3, 2024
Elbit Systems has signed a 1.5-billion-shekel (approximately $400 million) contract with Israel’s Ministry of Defense to establish an aerial bomb manufacturing bombs for the Israeli Air Force. In the past, the government-owned IMI operated this factory before Elbit Systems acquired it. This strategic move aims to reduce Israel’s dependence on bomb supplies from abroad. Elbit System’s product portfolio comprises a wide range of aerial bombs and deep penetrator bodies with precision-guided aerial weapons. Until recently, Israel’s defense companies focused more effort on the advanced, precision guidance kits rather than the explosive and bunker buster bombs used as warheads, considered by many as ‘commodities.’ The shortage of bombs and other munitions emphasized the need for Israel to maintain local supplies of ammunition. The company currently operates several production lines for manufacturing artillery and tank rounds, mortar bombs, and small-caliber ammunition. Expanding those lines is part of Israel’s broader strategy to strengthen domestic production capabilities and expand manufacturing lines within Israeli industries, as outlined by the Ministry of Defense. Anduril and FlackTek Partner to Transform Rocket Motor Production Anduril Industries announced a strategic partnership with FlackTek to enhance rocket motor production capabilities for defense and commercial applications. FlackTek is known for its high-velocity bladeless mixing and processing solutions to develop and manufacture the world’s most advanced mixing machine — the Mega FlackTek, also known as “The GOAT” — in Boulder, CO. Anduril Rocket Motor Systems is building and scaling a smarter, more agile production pipeline for Solid Rocket Motors (SRMs). This larger and more advanced dual asymmetric centrifugal machine will power a more than ten-fold increase in Anduril’s production throughput, which amounts to a more than 24x increase in production throughput compared to conventional planetary mixers of a similar size. For most tactical rocket propellants, the new mixer will match the throughput of a traditional 500-gallon ... - Naval Group to Deliver Barracuda Submarines to the Netherlands Oct 3, 2024
Naval Group to Deliver Barracuda Submarines to the Netherlands Naval Group contracted to provide four Barracuda expeditionary submarines to replace the Royal Netherlands Navy’s currently operational Walrus-class submarines. The agreement follows a thorough evaluation and bidding process conducted by the Materiel and IT Command (COMMIT) on behalf of the Netherlands Ministry of Defense. The new submarines, designated the Orka-class, will significantly enhance the Royal Netherlands Navy’s strategic capabilities. Commander Jan Willem Hartman of COMMIT stated that the new submarines – Orka, Zwaardvis, Barracuda, and Tijgerhaai submarines – would give the Netherlands Submarine Service “a head start in underwater warfare.” A key aspect of this agreement is the focus on production autonomy and industrial cooperation. Naval Group has committed to a 20-year industrial cooperation plan, formalized through an Industrial Cooperation Agreement (ICA) signed with the Ministry of Economic Affairs on September 10, 2024. This plan involves collaboration with numerous Dutch companies and knowledge institutes, ensuring the Netherlands develops and retains expertise over the submarine life cycle. The industrial organization aligns with the Netherlands MOD’s requirement for autonomy during the submarines’ lifetime, providing opportunities for the Dutch maritime cluster to expand its business and expertise in submarine operations, maintenance, and upgrades. BAE Systems Launches HMS Agamemnon The sixth Astute class nuclear-powered attack submarine rolled out of the Devonshire Dock Hall and entered the water for the first time on Thursday this week. The new submarine weighs 7,400 tonnes and is 97 meters long. The new submarine is the sixth of the seven Astute vessels contracted for the Royal Navy. The Astute Class boats are the largest and most advanced attack submarines ever built for the Royal Navy. Nuclear propulsion means they are unrestricted by needing fuel, oxygen, or water reservoirs for life support. They do not need to be refueled on a mission. They manufacture oxygen and ... - U.S. Army Awards Two Contracts for Enhanced S-MET Increment II UGV Prototypes Oct 3, 2024
The U.S. Army has awarded two contracts totaling $22 million to American Rheinmetall Vehicles, LLC, and HDT Expeditionary Systems, Inc. for developing Small Multipurpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) Increment II prototypes. The S-MET Increment II builds upon the capabilities of the original S-MET, a radio-controlled, eight-wheeled platform designed to carry equipment, generate power, and move without constraints. While the first increment could carry 450 kg (1,000 lbs.) of equipment, the second iteration seeks to increase this capacity to about 900 kg (2,000 lbs.) Additional improvements include higher exportable power for modern mission payloads, improved audio signature reduction, a dismounted wireless mesh communication network, increased reliability, worldwide grid charging, and a modular, open architecture for easier upgrades. In 2020, General Dynamics Land Systems was awarded a contract worth $249 million for the first increment of S-MET Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGV), expected to deliver 409 S-METs by 2025. Kyle Bruner, the Army’s project manager for Force Projection, emphasized that the S-MET Increment II addresses capability gaps related to excessive physical burdens on soldiers, battery recharging during continuous operations, and reducing sustainment burdens for semi-independent operations. The enhanced S-MET is expected to improve small-unit combat effectiveness by shifting physical loads from soldiers to the robotic platform, thereby reducing fatigue and injury risks. Successful developmental testing of the S-MET Increment II prototypes is anticipated to lead to a production contract in late Fiscal Year 2027, with an Army Acquisition Objective of up to 2,195 systems. L3Harris Develops Modular Mission Payload for Landmine Detection L3Harris introduced a payload enabling autonomous detection, mapping, and landmine clearance using UAVs deployed from robotic vehicles, allowing safe breaching operations. Developed in collaboration with the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Armaments Center and strategic partners, this innovative system enables a single operator to conduct wide-area, autonomous detection, mapping, and reduction of landmines. The technology significantly ... - BAE Systems’ New EW Radar Completes First Flight Test Oct 3, 2024
BAE Systems conducted the initial flight test of its new EW radar system, an advanced new radar that will equip Royal Air Force (RAF) pilots with the ability to locate, identify, and suppress enemy air defenses has taken to the skies for the first time. This significant achievement saw the prototype of the European Common Radar System Mark 2 (ECRS Mk2) operated on a UK Typhoon test and evaluation aircraft at BAE Systems in Lancashire, supported by the radar’s developer, Leonardo UK. The ECRS Mk2 can perform traditional radar functions such as search and targeting and provide advanced electronic warfare capabilities. This will enable Typhoons to locate and deny using an adversary’s radar with a powerful electronic attack while staying beyond the reach of threats. Furthermore, unlike traditional radars, which are limited to a specific, narrow, and congested part of the radio frequency spectrum, the ECRS Mk2 operates across a broader range of the electromagnetic spectrum, enabling operation above or below the congested and contested frequencies where most fighter radars operate. BAE Systems Advances in Mission-Integrated Network Control Technology BAE Systems was awarded a Phase 2 DARPA contract for developing autonomous software for secure multi-domain communications under the Mission-Integrated Network Control (MINC) program. The contract builds upon BAE Systems’ work in Phase 1 of the MINC program, which aims to create an integrated, advanced capability for secure communications networks supporting multi-domain operations. Under Phase 2, BAE Systems’ FAST Labs research and development organization will further advance the algorithms and software developed in the initial phase to anticipate and dynamically adapt network services. According to Brian Decleene, chief scientist at BAE Systems’ FAST Labs, The goal is to deliver the right information to the right user at the right time across multiple domains. This contract continues BAE Systems’ involvement in the MINC program, which began in May 2022 with a ... - Jet-Powered RAZOR VTOL Shows Progress in Recent Flight Tests Sep 29, 2024
Mayman Aerospace has completed a series of flight tests of a testbed platform designed to surrogate the RAZOR P100. These tests validated the platform’s avionics, propulsion, and control systems using the same propulsion, engine gimballing, thrust vectoring, and flight control systems. With projected speeds exceeding 450 knots (approximately 500 mph), the RAZOR offers capabilities far beyond rotor-based propulsion, enabling it to intercept drones and precisely deliver payloads. As a multi-mission aerial platform, the RAZOR demonstrated its ability to transition from hover mode to high-speed winged flight, a critical feature for rapid deployment in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The aircraft will be able to support Air-to-Air and Air-to-Surface missions, carrying Brimstone, Hellfire, and Sidewinder guided missiles, with a range exceeding 300 kilometers (200 miles). During the tests, the RAZOR flew seven autonomous mission sets. According to Dr. Manu Sharma, Chief Engineer at Mayman Aerospace, the primary goal was to validate recent software and control-law updates, particularly the transition from hover mode, where the engines are canted outwards, to winged flight mode, where all engines are aligned in the same direction. This transition is crucial for achieving high-speed flight. The tests also increased autonomous flight time, particularly for takeoff and landing, enhancing confidence in the system’s reliability. These flight tests were conducted under the Other Transaction Authority (OTA) contract that Mayman Aerospace holds with the U.S. Department of Defense. Since 2016, the company has built four full-scale prototypes and is preparing for additional tests. Production of the P100 model is scheduled to begin by 2025. The SkyField mesh system is designed to respond intelligently to command and control decisions, whether operated by Human-in-the-Loop (HITL) oversight or autonomously in GPS-denied or compromised environments. Commanders can confidently deploy assets through real-time decision support powered by actionable AI recommendations, with human operators retaining final decision-making authority. David Mayman, ... - Defense-Update Weekly News Summary Sep 27, 2024
Welcome to the Defense Update News Summary, your go-to source for the latest developments in defense technology, military strategy, and global security. In this episode, we explore groundbreaking advancements and critical issues shaping the future of warfare. Get the rapid-fire update on global defense’s latest developments in this concise 18-minute podcast. This week’s news summary includes: Highlights include: DoD acquisition process reform: A shift from requirements-based to problem-based systems Drone warfare innovations in Ukraine: Novel deployment methods and countermeasures B-21 Raider progress: Successful flight testing and production advancements Hypersonic technology: L3Harris’ propulsion breakthroughs and Northrop Grumman’s interceptor development Augmented reality in military operations: Anduril and Microsoft’s IVAS enhancement Naval innovations: Dutch Navy’s multifunctional support vessels and Aurora’s Liberty Lifter seaplane concept From autonomous combat vehicles to next-gen air defense systems, we explore how these technologies change modern warfare. We also examine international defense partnerships, export deals, and the geopolitical implications of emerging military capabilities. Land Warfare Weekly News Summary Aerospace Weekly News Summary Unmanned Systems Weekly News Summary Naval Systems Weekly News Defense Business Weekly News Stay informed on the rapidly evolving defense landscape. Like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell to never miss an update from Defense Update News Summary. #DefenseTechnology #MilitaryInnovation #GlobalSecurity #DroneWarfare #Hypersonics #AugmentedReality View last week’s episode. (Sept. 26, 2024) 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. #DefenseTechnology #MilitaryInnovation #DroneWarfare #AviationTechnology #GlobalSecurity #DefenseIndustry #MilitaryNews For more in-depth analysis and defense updates, visit our website: https://defense-update.com - DEFTECH LLC Unveils Advanced Tandem-Wing UAVs at ADEX 2024 Sep 27, 2024
DEFTECH LLC, a cutting-edge defense technology company from Azerbaijan, unveiled a new family of reconnaissance and attack platforms featuring a unique tandem-wing design at the ADEX 2024 arms exhibition in Baku. Originally introduced as conceptual models at ADEX 2022, these platforms have matured through flight testing and are now designed for long-endurance surveillance missions and attack roles. In collaboration with Azerbaijan’s Ministry of National Defense Production and UAV solutions providers, DEFTECH has made significant advancements with the DT-101 and DT-001 drone designs and their associated loitering munitions. The tandem-wing configuration, a hallmark of DEFTECH’s design, enhances the UAVs’ aerodynamics by providing improved longitudinal stability and lift efficiency, making them highly effective across various flight regimes. The DT-101 is a Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) UAV built for long-endurance surveillance and targeting missions. It boasts a maximum takeoff weight of 55-75 kg and a wingspan of 3.6 meters. It is powered by a hybrid propulsion system combining a 180 CC internal combustion engine with four electric VTOL motors. Capable of reaching cruising altitudes between 3,000 and 5,000 meters, the DT-101 can remain airborne for up to 10 hours, depending on mission requirements. The heavier DT-001 UAV is runway-launched, with a 75-120 kg takeoff weight, powered by a 360 CC internal combustion engine. It is designed to carry heavier payloads and supports up to two F-1500 loitering munitions under its fuselage. The DT-101 and DT-001 can carry a range of mission payloads, including EO/IR cameras, multispectral sensors, LIDAR, SIGINT/ELINT pods, and jamming equipment. The F-1500 loitering munition, specifically designed for the DT-001, is a compact tube or air-launched system weighing 7 kg. It can loiter for 20-40 minutes and strike targets up to 40 km away. The tube-launched version carries a 1.5 kg warhead with options for high explosive fragmenting, armor-piercing, or thermobaric warheads, while ... - Shield AI Co-Founder Advocates for Problem-Based Defense Acquisition Reform Sep 27, 2024
Brandon Tseng, Co-founder and President of Shield AI, presented a compelling case for reforming the Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition process in his statement to the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. Tseng, a former Navy SEAL and engineer, emphasized shifting from a requirements-based to a problem-based acquisition system to foster innovation and maintain America’s military edge. Tseng highlighted Shield AI’s achievements in developing AI-piloted aircraft and drones, including the MQ-35 V-BAT and autonomous F-16 flights. He argued that current DoD acquisition processes often result in incremental improvements (“faster horses”) rather than transformative solutions. The existing requirements-based system, Tseng contended, is slow, inflexible, and discourages innovation from defense contractors. To address these issues, Tseng proposed establishing a new problem-based acquisition system separate from current processes. This system would focus on solving identified problems without specifying requirements, provide flexible budgeting based on value, and target 25% adoption of major acquisition efforts within three years. Tseng also recommended implementing pre-deployment training under electronic warfare conditions to assess the survivability of U.S. military systems. Tseng’s testimony underscores the critical role of software and AI in future military capabilities, emphasizing the need for increased investment and a shift in DoD culture to recognize these technologies’ strategic importance. (Read the complete statement) Forterra Secures $75 Million in Funding for Autonomous Driving Systems The US-based Forterra company (formerly RRAI) has successfully raised $75 million to advance its autonomous AutoDrive vehicle technology, which facilitates autonomous driving systems for military and commercial vehicles. The AutoDrive systems have become central elements in autonomy systems explored or used by the US Army and US Marine Corps, including autonomous convoys (ACE/GEARS), autonomy retrofits, robotic combat vehicles (RCV), small, multipurpose equipment transports (SMET), and remotely operated ground units for Expeditionary forces (ROGUE). Northrop Grumman and Lithuania Partner to Boost Defense Industrial Capabilities Northrop Grumman Corporation and the Lithuanian government have ... - B-21 Raider Progresses in Flight Testing and Production Sep 27, 2024
Northrop Grumman’s B-21 Raider program is making significant strides in both flight testing and production, marking a new era in strategic bomber development. The Combined Test Force (CTF), comprising Northrop Grumman and Air Force personnel, is conducting a comprehensive flight test campaign at Edwards Air Force Base to evaluate the aircraft’s capabilities. Early feedback from test pilots has been overwhelmingly positive. Chris “Hoss” Moss, a B-21 Raider test pilot, noted that the aircraft’s handling qualities are exceeding expectations based on simulations. The flight test program rapidly expands the B-21’s operational envelope, executing multiple test events within a week. According to Northrop Grumman, this efficiency is attributed to its digital ecosystem, which allows for quick analysis of test data and swift implementation of updates. In parallel with flight testing, Northrop Grumman has completed static testing to verify the B-21’s structural design and has begun fatigue testing to simulate a lifetime of flight conditions. The company is also scaling production, utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques and digital tooling across the factory. Innovative approaches, such as augmented reality tools and advanced robotics, are being employed to enhance efficiency and accuracy in the production process. This strategy of building the first test aircraft, like the production model, aims to ensure a smooth transition to full-scale production and facilitate future technology insertions to keep the B-21 ahead of emerging threats. Saab Delivers Fifth GlobalEye Aircraft to UAE The UAE has received the fifth and final GlobalEye Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) aircraft built by SAAB. to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). GlobalEyes delivery spanned over four years, showcasing Saab’s efficiency in fulfilling the development and manufacturing program within less than ten years. Boeing Completes First Flight of UK E-7 Wedgetail for Royal Air Force Boeing has successfully conducted the first flight of the UK’s E-7 Wedgetail aircraft, marking a significant milestone in developing ...
