CUAS and satellite capabilities to be among US Coast Guard’s acquisition priorities in FY2026
The Secretary of Homeland Security said the branch needed “counter-UAS technology in every cutter”.
Vulcanair Aircraft has selected UTC Aerospace Systems to deliver its Cloud Cap Technology TASE500 imaging systems to support the Chilean Navy’s maritime search and rescue (SAR) mission, UTC Aerospace Systems announced on 8 December.
The systems will be installed on Vulcanair's P68 Observer 2 twin-engine aircraft, which are being delivered to the navy for patrol, maritime observation and SAR operations.
The TASE500 is an all-HD, digital imaging system designed for improved situational awareness. Its lens design is optimised for object recognition, and it features a continuous zoom function and advanced processing capabilities.
Remo De Feo, CEO, Vulcanair Aircraft, said: ‘The addition of the Cloud Cap Technology TASE500 Imaging System to the P68 Observer 2 will allow us to provide a turnkey, high performance, cost efficient solution to the search and rescue market. The all HD imaging system of the TASE500 was a critical requirement in providing the Chilean Navy with superior night-time imaging as well as long range daylight surveillance.’
John Trezza, vice president, Force Protection, UTC Aerospace Systems, said: ‘We are proud to be selected by Vulcanair Aircraft, a respected name in aviation, to provide the Chilean Navy with an optical imaging solution that meets the demands of their extensive maritime operations. The TASE500's optimised lens design will enable search and rescue operators to more easily identify objects at sea and along the coastline.’
The Secretary of Homeland Security said the branch needed “counter-UAS technology in every cutter”.
Logistic support ships (LSS) are essential for sustained naval operations, especially during extended deployments far from home ports.
Despite bolstering its patrol fleet with new Evolved Cape-class vessels, the Royal Australian Navy’s offshore patrol vessel programme remains mired in delays, indecision and criticism over underwhelming capabilities.
The glider, named SG-1 Fathom, has been designed to be scalable and affordable, and can be deployed for up to three months at a time, according to Helsing.
The service currently has diverse problems in its procurement programmes and capability gaps in its inventory, writes Shephard’s North America editor Flavia Camargos Pereira.
A total of 28 active surface ships will receive the upgrades to their weaponry to help them combat the growing threat from UAVs.