US Navy’s MQ-25 Stingray approaches carrier-integration tests
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.
The Hellenic Navy has placed an order for 11 METIS RIBs from Viking Life-Saving Equipment.
The boats will be supplied by the company’s Greek branch, Viking Norsafe Life-Saving Equipment Hellas. They will be manufactured at a facility in Thiva.
The SAR craft will be delivered in summer 2020 and they will gradually replace boats used on larger vessels, including the MEKO-type frigates.
Endre Eidsvik, VP Sales & Service of Viking Norsafe Life-Saving Equipment Hellas, said: ‘Being based on the very successful Viking Norsafe METIS family of RIBs, these boats are easy to launch, highly manoeuvrable and versatile, and the ideal support tool for SAR operations.’
METIS RIB can reach speeds of 30kt when fully loaded and includes state-of-the-art navigation systems. It is powered by a single engine and is between 6m and 7m in length.
Boeing has outlined its upcoming precision-landing and carrier-airspace trials as MQ-25 manufacturing shifts towards Illinois, with initial Lot 1 deliveries expected in 2029.
Babcock is taking its Polish industrial partnership approach to Denmark and New Zealand as navies seek sovereign shipbuilding skills alongside ships.
The changing Arctic environment is creating new challenges for submarine detection, driving demand for distributed sensors, uncrewed underwater vehicles and real-time acoustic modelling.
A wave of acquisitions is bringing specialist autonomy and underwater technology under the umbrella of larger defence contractors. As a result, navies may gain faster access to capability, but not necessarily a broader choice of suppliers.
A €3.7 billion destroyer contract for Fincantieri and Leonardo is only the start, with submarines, corvettes and a new carrier pointing to more opportunities.
HII, Saronic and Galliano Marine Services have won US Navy production contracts to supply medium uncrewed surface vessels. The marketplace approach behind them sets the bar for suppliers eyeing allied navy competitions.