From systems integrator to multi-domain solutions provider (video)
Philipp von Brandenstein, Head of Corporate Communications at Rheinmetall, explains how Eurosatory 2026 marked a new stage in the company's evolution.
USN orders support for ram-air parachutes
Example of a ram-air tactical parachute. (Photo: Airborne Systems)
SSK Industries to provide critical safety items for ram-air parachutes used by SOF.
SSK Industries is providing critical safety items for USN SOF users of ram-air parachute systems, under a $12.65 million IDIQ contract from the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division.
The deal includes life support for ‘non-developmental Electronic Automatic Activating Device end items, associated replacement parts, and related original equipment manufacturer overhauls’, the DoD noted on 1 November.
Work will be performed in Lebanon, Ohio, for completion in October 2026.
Ram-air canopies are particularly useful for SOF in High Altitude High Opening parachute insertion operations.
A typical ram-air parafoil employs twin layers of fabric (connected by ribs) for steerability. The spaces between fill with higher-pressure air from vents that face forward on the leading edge of the airfoil. The fabric is shaped and the parachute lines are trimmed under load, so that the ballooning fabric inflates into an airfoil shape.
You may also like
More from Defence Notes
-
![From systems integrator to multi-domain solutions provider (video)]()
-
![US Pentagon pushes for major reform of defence acquisition system]()
US Pentagon pushes for major reform of defence acquisition system
The US Department of Defense has requested new contracting authorities from Congress, using the Army's MV-75 Cheyenne programme to demonstrate how competition, digital engineering and closer industry collaboration could accelerate acquisitions.
-
![US speeds up B61-13 nuclear bomb production as programme moves further ahead of schedule]()
US speeds up B61-13 nuclear bomb production as programme moves further ahead of schedule
The US government plans to accelerate production even further after achieving key B61-13 milestones months ahead of schedule, as the programme advances amid growing US-China strategic competition.
-
![Canada’s C$2 billion ACSV deal reinforces new defence industrial strategy as allies align]()
Canada’s C$2 billion ACSV deal reinforces new defence industrial strategy as allies align
General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada is the country’s first strategic partner under the Defence Industrial Strategy’s Strategic Partnership Framework, an effort to provide companies with confidence to invest and boost the defence labour force.
-
![New UK armed forces minister frames High North defence as vital to “homeland security”]()
New UK armed forces minister frames High North defence as vital to “homeland security”
The UK’s Minister for the Armed Forces Louise Sandher-Jones made her first appearance in the role before the House of Commons Defence Committee this week to highlight efforts to improve capability in the High North.
-
![Canada seeks to strengthen industrial ties with the US on classified programmes]()
Canada seeks to strengthen industrial ties with the US on classified programmes
Ottawa explores expanding defence-industrial cooperation with Washington into sensitive programmes, an approach that could reshape NORAD modernisation, strengthen North American supply chains and create new opportunities for defence contractors.
