As a major operator of a diverse range of aircraft types that undertake a multitude of different ISTAR and covert missions, the US DoD has been the chosen model of many nations around the world. The US model has been mirrored by a few, mainly in part, but financial pressures have now posited the idea of a rethink.
The US stance has always been to support its own industry and so it comes as no surprise that its so-called ‘Boutique Fleet’ of specialist aircraft rely largely on Boeing and Lockheed Martin airframes.
Times are changing and many nations have realised that
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The Spanish Navy’s Alvaro de Bazan-class of air defence frigates will receive the latest Aegis Weapon System technology among other modernisations to extend the service life to 2045.
Shipbuilders are saying the programme is going ahead on time as the government estimates 7.7 million tonnes of steel are needed for 2026 infrastructure projects.
In an exclusive interview with Shephard, Raytheon’s VP of Shipboard Missiles disclosed what improvements the company plans to offer for the Sea Sparrow NSV.
Delays in the construction of the Polar Security Cutter – the future substitute for the Polar Star – are likely to prolong the ageing icebreaker’s service time even more, putting the USCG in a risky position.
The adaptable design of Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 frigate, already selected by the UK Royal Navy and Poland, has led to more orders from Indonesia while other countries continue to weigh it up.
The presence of the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the Persian Gulf means additional naval and aerial capabilities, which provides the US with multiple attacking options.
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