Uncrewed Vehicles
Turkish delight in Saudi drone deal
20th July 2023
The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has signed a deal to purchase Akinci UAVs from Turkey’s Baykar in a significant boon for Ankara.
Latest news
Land Warfare
UK's Project Morpheus land forces communications programme falling short
The UK's existing Bowman system will continue to soldier on, as while other aspects of the wider LETacCIS comms programme progress, Morpheus currently does not have an agreed initial operational capability date.
Naval Warfare
US declares IOC for special operations mini-sub
Lockheed Martin's Dry Combat Submersible (DCS) achieves Initial Operational Capability with US Special Operations Command. This vehicle enables covert underwater missions, transforming undersea warfare for special operators.
Defence Notes
Empowering SMEs in defence: how accelerators forge pathways to success amid lingering challenges
SMEs have touted the benefits of accelerators to Shephard in helping them gain access to markets like defence and meet new potential clients.
Naval Warfare
Defence AI company Helsing envisions benefits for ASW, amplifying sensor capabilities
According to defence AI company Helsing, the technology could improve how navies conduct anti-submarine warfare (ASW) operations.
Defence Notes
UK’s refreshed Defence Command Paper earns mixed reviews
20th July 2023
Having finally published a long-awaited refreshed Defence Command Paper on 18 July, experts have weighed in on the quality of the UK’s defence plans.
Air Warfare
New material could be used for hypersonic missile radomes, MBDA
18th July 2023
European missile-maker MBDA has developed a new ceramic material called Nimas B1, which is highly resistant and suitable for radomes used in hypersonic and supersonic missiles.
Defence Notes
UK pledges billions towards stockpiles in refreshed defence plan
18th July 2023
The UK has pledged an additional £2.5 billion ($3.27 billion) in stockpile investment as part of a refreshed defence plan that will be published later today.
Air Warfare
BAE Systems Phasa-35 UAS soars into the stratosphere
17th July 2023
BAE Systems has achieved the first stratospheric flight of the Phasa-35 High Altitude Pseudo-Satellite (HAPS) uncrewed aerial system (UAS). Weighing 150kg, the drone flew to over 66,000ft in altitude and could offer long-endurance ISR and communication capabilities.
Land Warfare
UK and Poland cooperating on development of future common missile
14th July 2023
The UK and Poland will work together to develop a future common missile based on MBDA's Common Anti-Air Modular Missile (CAMM) as part of wider cooperation between London and Warsaw.
Land Warfare
UK seeks rear camera system for Warrior armoured vehicles
13th July 2023
The British Army is seeking to procure a rear camera system for its Warrior Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) to meet a safety critical modification.
Naval Warfare
Thales nets £169 million contract for Dreadnought submarine masts
13th July 2023
Thales has been awarded a £169 million ($220 million) contract for the UK RN's future Dreadnought submarines Integrated Combat System Mast.
Digital Battlespace
Germany signs contract for new SIGINT ships
10th July 2023
Germany has signed a contract with NVL Group for three fleet service ships, providing the country with new naval SIGINT capabilities in the Baltic and beyond. The ships will gradually replace Germany's existing Oste-class boats.
Naval Warfare
French nuclear sub Perle returns to action after fire damage
10th July 2023
Following sea trials, Rubis-class nuclear-powered attack submarine (SSN) Perle has been delivered back to the French Navy following extensive repair works after a catastrophic fire in 2020.
Uncrewed Vehicles
XLUUV towed array trials pave the way for autonomous anti-submarine warfare
7th July 2023
SEA, MSubs and Sonardyne conducted trials integrating uncrewed anti-submarine warfare systems using the MSubs Extra Large Uncrewed Vehicle and SEA KraitArray towed array, opening the door to potential autonomous ASW capabilities.
Digital Battlespace
Sweden signs deal with Thales for SMART-L long-range radars
6th July 2023
The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has entered into an agreement with Thales for new land-based SMART-L Multi Mission Fixed (MM/F) long-range radars. These will enhance Sweden's missile detection capabilities and contribute to its integrated air and missile defence.
