Defense`s Feeds

The US Air Force’s secretive Next Generation Air Dominance future fighter program could be the most expensive aircraft program in history, with each piloted, sixth-generation aircraft expected to cost hundreds of millions of dollars. When asked about the price tag, Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall did not specify exactly how much an individual aircraft could cost, but said the service was talking about “multiple” hundreds of millions.

Huntington Ingalls won an $11 million contract modification to extend the delivery date for vessel storage and towing preparation services of the aircraft carrier ex-USS Enterprise (CVN-65). Work will take place in Virginia. Expected completion will be by September 2024.

Mali’s ruling military has announced it is breaking its defense accords with former colonial ruler France, condemning “flagrant violations” of its national sovereignty by the French troops stationed there. The announcement was the latest sign of deteriorating relations between Mali and France.

Lockheed Martin is planning to ramp up Javelin anti-tank missile system production, expecting a surge in demand from Ukraine, chief executive James Taiclet announced. Taiclet said the company is ready to invest in further production of the Javelin, the Patriot, and the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense system and requested the Pentagon help provide “future contracts to make up the difference.”

The sudden elevation in intensity of top-level talks between Finland and Sweden has raised the bar on the expectation that the two unaligned Nordic states will jointly announce their decisions to join NATO by May 16. The possibility of Sweden and Finland joining NATO was discussed when the prime ministers of both countries, Magdalena Andersson and Sanna Marin, meet at Schloss Meseberg castle, near Berlin, to discuss security issues with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on May 3.

Taiwan’s Defense Ministry said it was considering alternative weapons options after the United States informed it that the delivery of an artillery system would be delayed due to a “crowded” production line. The two allied nations signed an agreement last year to deliver 40 M109A6 medium self-propelled howitzers for $750 million. Taiwan had expected eight Paladin howitzers next year, and 16 each in 2024 and 2025.

WATCH: How Powerful is America’s Paladin Howitzer

Lockheed Martin Corporation won a $204.7 million deal for production of High Mobility Artillery Rock Systems M142 launchers and support requirements. Bids were solicited via the internet with one received. HIMARS carries a single six-pack of rockets or one ATACMS missile on the Army’s Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles (FMTV) 5-ton truck, and can launch the entire MLRS family of munitions. Work will take place in Texas, Pennsylvania, Arkansas, Florida, Alabama, New Jersey and Mississippi. Estimated completion date is April 29, 2025.

Bell Boeing won a $302.2 million contract modification by the US Navy. The modification provides for the production and delivery of four MV-22B variation in quantity aircraft for the Marine Corps. Work will take place in Texas, Pennsylvania, New York and Utah. Estimated completion date is in November 2025.

Israeli newspaper “The Jerusalem Post” said that huge cargo planes belonging to the UAE Air Force landed in Israel several times during the past two weeks. According to the paper, the reason for these flights is not yet clear, but it is suspected that they are transporting security and military equipment under a joint defense agreement signed by the two sides recently.

Serbia has shown its newly-acquired FK-3 air defense missile system that it bought from China to the media for the first time. Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic attended the Shield 2022 airpower demonstration at Colonel-pilot Milenko Pavlovic airbase in Batajnica. The FK-3 was displayed alongside other weapons such as helicopters and MiG-29s.

According to the “UK Defence Journal”, the head of the Royal Air Force has confirmed plans to purchase 74 F-35B jets adding that it is “possible” the UK may eventually have a fleet of 138 F-35s. The specific number was apparently revealed by Air Marshal Knighton during a Defense Select Committee meeting.

For the first time, the Royal Australian Air Force has conducted air-to-air refuelling flight testing with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. Conducted from April 4 to 27, the flight test engineering program in Japan involved a RAAF KC-30A Multi-Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) and Mitsubishi F-2 aircraft of the JASDF.

An Australian tanker has refueled a Japanese fighter jet in the air for the first time as part of interoperability trials between the two Asia-Pacific nations. A Royal Australian Air Force KC-30A tanker aircraft was deployed to Japan April 4-27, during which it participated in a flight test engineering program with Japan Air Self-Defense Force Mitsubishi F-2 jets.

WATCH: How Marine Pilots Fly The $84 Million Osprey | Boot Camp

Under the EDA-managed Incubation Forum for Circular Economy in European Defence (IF CEED), more than 30 experts from 13 countries across Europe met on 26 April 2022 to prioritise the way forward on the role of data for circular economy in European Defence.

Experts from EDA’s participating Member States, defence-related industry and Research-and-Technology Organisations (RTOs) gathered in two sessions of IF CEED working groups (so-called ‘Project Circles’). The core of the discussion covered how to improve circularity by information sharing across the defence-related value chain, while protecting classified or business-sensitive data.

The Project Circle ‘WFD’ discussed the implementation of the article 9(1)(i) of the Waste Framework Directive regarding the reporting of substances of very high concern. It focused on the associated ‘SCIP’ (Substances of Concern In Product) database, its use within the defence supply chain, the implementation of the Directive’s provisions across Member States and issues related to compliance with defence-specific requirements, such as rules on export of military systems.

Then, the Project Circle ‘Circular Data’ started its work on the broader use of data as an enabler for circularity in Defence. Presentations explored the potential uses of data and the concept of ‘Digital Product Passport’, by building on recent initiatives in civilian applications able to cross-fertilise and transfer innovative technologies to the defence sector. Participants shared experiences and views on the needs, benefits and barriers of the implementation of a data-sharing scheme in the military context. They discussed topics such as higher standards of data protection needed for classified information and the relevant scope of data to be shared across supply chains.

Both Project Circles established first priorities, aiming at making the most of data management to develop circularity principles in the defence sector.

The Incubation Forum for Circular Economy in European Defence (IF CEED) is co-funded by the European Union (under the LIFE programme) and the Luxembourg’s Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs - Directorate of Defence.

More info:

• IF CEED website

Lockheed Martin won a $93 million contract modification, which adds scope to procure special tooling and test equipment in support of electronic warfare capabilities for F-35 Lightning II low rate initial production for the Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers, and non-US Department of Defense (DOD) participants. Work will take place in New Hampshire, Maryland and expected completion date is in November 2024.

Lockheed Martin won a $304.9 million modification. Under it, the contractor will produce and deliver Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Interceptors and associated one-shot devices to support US government requirements. Work will take place in Texas, California, Alabama, Arkansas. Estimated completion date is December 1, 2027.

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and Hyundai Heavy Industries have inked an agreement to supply the Philippine Navy with IAI’s ALPHA 3D Radar Systems. The ALPHA 3D Radar will be integrated into the new ships of the Philippine Navy. IAI is a global leader in the development of advanced naval technologies. Developed by IAI’s ELTA Division, the ALPHA 3D Radar System is a lightweight, multi-function 3D AESA radar that shares technology with its larger sibling, the MF-STAR radar.

Raytheon Missiles and Defense won a $55.4 million modification to exercise options for fiscal 2022 US and German Navy German Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) Mod 5 Guided Missile Launching System (GMLS) requirements and spares. Work will take place in Germany, Kentucky, California, Alabama, Arkansas and other US locations. Expected completion will be by February 2025.

The 510th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron has deployed six F-16s from Italy to Romania to relief the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron for the support of NATO’s Enhanced Air Policing mission in the Black Sea region. They are based at Fetesti air base and the 510th EFS will work with Italian Eurofighters for this mission.

Lockheed Martin won a $9.8 million order for the procurement of Combat System Ship Qualification (CSSQT) Trials planning support services for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) Japan. Work will take place in Hawaii, California, New Jersey and Japan. Expected completion will be by July 2023.

WATCH: This Is most advanced version of the Patriot missile from THAAD system !

During an Employment Concept Exercise in Spain, the US Air Force’s KC-46A carried out the first operational refueling of a foreign aircraft on April 18. The aerial refueling tanker passed fuel to Spanish Hornets during the flight. Four KC-46A tankers are deployed to Moron Air Base for this Employment Concept Exercise.

The US Air Force announced on April 26 that it had selected the Boeing E-7 Wedgetail to replace its Boeing E-3 Sentry Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) aircraft. The USAF plans to award a contract in fiscal year 2023 and requested $227 million in research, development, test, and evaluation funds for the programme starting in its FY 2023 budget.

The EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said that the bloc will wind down some of its training of Mali’s forces. This casts further doubt on the future of EU and UN peacekeeping missions in the region. Borrell grounded the decision in the lack of guarantees from the transitional Malian authorities that Russian Kremlin-linked mercenaries would not interfere with EU operations.

In a historic move, lawmakers in Germany have given the official green light to send “heavy weapons and complex systems” to Ukraine. But many of them also criticized Chancellor Olaf Scholz for not being in Berlin. The petition passed on Thursday, with with 586 votes in favor, 100 against, and seven abstentions.

British Defense Secretary Ben Wallace said, he was not “rattled” by Vladimir Putin’s nuclear threats Thursday because NATO allies “outgun” and “outnumber” the Russian president. “I don’t feel rattled,” Wallace said, speaking to LBC radio. “We have strong armed forces and a nuclear deterrent and we’re part of a NATO partnership of 30 nations who outgun him, outnumber him and have potentially all the capabilities at our disposal.”

The Philippine Air Force accepted the Spyder Philippines Air Defense System (SPADS) Simulator – Training Center at Basa Air Base on April 26. The training center will help prepare future missile operators to handle real-world challenges.

WATCH: Finally! US Air Force to buy E-7 Wedgetail to replace E-3 Sentry or AWACS.

Walsh Federal won an $184.8 million deal for construction of an aircraft maintenance hangar at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina.  The work provides for the construction of a two-story, low rise, two squadron maintenance hangar for the F-35B Lightning II aircraft, including a high bay space, crew and equipment space, and administrative space. The deal also contains seven unexercised options, which if exercised would increase cumulative contract value to $206,064,819. Work will take place in North Carolina and is expected to be completed by June 2025.

General Atomics has flown the Leonardo Seaspray 7500E V2 AESA radar on the MQ-9A unmanned air vehicle on April 14. The same radar is being fitted for the MQ-9B SeaGuardian as well. It has a range of 320nm and can scan for both air and surface targets.

Swiftships LLC won a $22.1 million contract action for six 28-meter Coastal Patrol Craft material production kits, Zodiac Rigid Inflatable Boats, Forward Looking Infrared Systems, personal computer packages, associated contractor engineering technical services, and provisioned item orders. This contract includes options, which if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $26,357,027. This contract involves Foreign Military Sales to Egypt. Work will take place in Louisiana and is expected to be finished bay November 2023.

Poland’s prime minister has confirmed the country supplied its Soviet-designed T-72 tanks to Ukraine to support the fight against Russia, which invaded Ukraine February 24. The announcement came shortly after his British prime minister Boris Johnson announced plans to supply an undisclosed number of Challenger 2 tanks to Poland to “backfill” the operational needs of its military.

The L3Harris Technologies Airborne Reconnaissance and Electronic Warfare System (ARES) demonstrator for the US Army has been flown to the Indo-Pacific. The US Army said the aircraft departed over the weekend, the bombardier Global 6500 business jet “will support real-time intelligence collection and processing, exploitation and dissemination (PED) operations while in the US Army Indo-Pacific Command area of responsibility.” The Army wishes to use ARES to inform future sensor and system requirements for the Multi-Domain Sensing System. L3Harris announced the aircraft made its first flight in August 2021 and ARES can fly above 40,000 feet and use Long Range Precision Fires (LRPF) to counter long-range threats. Mission endurance is 14 hours.

Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Central Biological Chemical Weapons Defense Unit carried out a joint Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear decontamination study with the US Air Force at Yokota Air Base, Japan on April 18. The study was a two-day event involving familiarization briefings from Airmen assigned to the 374th Airlift Wing and a demonstration of the skills utilized in a CBRN rescue for mass causalities from aircraft such as the C-130, the service said in a press release.

WATCH: T-72 vs M1 Abrams | Armor Penetration Simulation | NERA

EDA Chief Executive Jiří Šedivý visited Poland this week (26/27 April) for high-level talks with the Deputy Minister of Defence, Marcin Ociepa, the Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces, Major General Piotr Błaseusz, as well as with the Defence Policy Director and the National Armament, Capability and R&T Directors. Mr Šedivý also met with representatives of the Polish defence industry. The trip to Warsaw was part of Mr Šedivý’s ‘tour des capitales’ that, since last year, sees him visiting all EDA Member States.

The discussions with Deputy Minister Ociepa, Deputy Chief of the General Staff Major General Błazeusz and other interlocutors at the Ministry of National Defence mainly focused on Poland’s involvement in EDA’s current and future activities, the war in Ukraine and its potential impact on EU defence cooperation and spending, future defence investment programmes and cooperation opportunities, EDA’s role in the implementation of the EU defence initiatives (especially the ongoing work on the second Coordinated Annual Review on Defence, CARD), the implementation of the recently adopted Strategic Compass, the upcoming revision of the EU Capability Development Priorities, as well as the establishment of the Defence Innovation Hub in EDA, as agreed by EU Member States in the Strategic Compass.

To date, Poland participates in 38 EDA projects and programmes, representing 28% of EDA’s total project portfolio. Of these, six are capability development projects, including cooperation on the EU Multimodal Transport Hub Network, EU Satellite Communications Market, Additive Manufacturing for Logistic Support and Maritime Surveillance. Currently, Poland participates in 32 research and technology (R&T) projects, out of which 17 are ongoing and 15 under preparation. Poland is also the lead nation for four among them that cover passive radar, electronic warfare, maritime monitoring and biometric vehicles for underwater Intelligence surveillance and recognition (ISR). The total value of EDA programmes and projects in which Poland participates currently stands at €178 million (Apr.2022). Poland is also participating in a total of 13 PESCO projects of which it leads one, the project aiming at establishing a Special Operations Forces Medical Training Centre.

“I am grateful for Poland’s active involvement in the Agency’s work, especially, for its leading role in various important collaborative defence research projects run in the EDA framework. We need the leadership of Member States, such as Poland, to push joint research and innovation within our Armed Forces because new disruptive technologies and innovations are reshaping the whole defence sector. I would also thank Poland for its very active engagement in PESCO where is participating in a range of crucial capability projects which aim to fil existing European shortfalls.  All in all, I can only thank the Polish authorities for their strong commitment to EDA’s activities and European defence cooperation in general, and encourage them to pursue on this path”, Mr Šedivý commented.

Polish Deputy Defence Minister Marcin Ociepa said: “The big shift in the worldwide security situation associated with the war in Ukraine has changed the perspective on what is the regional status of Poland. This shows how important maintaining a technological advantage over potential adversaries is and how necessary is strengthening investments and efforts in defence, including R&T. Increasing tensions and the deteriorating security situation accelerated works on the new Homeland Defence bill that rises the GDP defence spending benchmark from 2,3% until 3% starting from next year and sets up conditions for increasing a number of personnel up to 300.000 over the next decade. We believe that the use of available instruments within EU and NATO to improve effectiveness of activities, and achieve more by acting together is crucial. Within the EU framework we recognize great relevance of the EDA, with support on Cat B research projects, CapTechs vehicles and new initiative with regards to HEDI - Hub for European Defence Innovation, and the European Defence Fund. Having all that in mind we would like to thank EDA for the work you have been doing to strengthen and increase the level of cooperation of joint capability building and defence innovation.”

Industry

On 27 April, Mr Šedivý also met with the CEO of the Polish Armaments Group (PGZ), Mr Sebastian Chwałek, to discuss EDA’s industry engagement and a range of other industry-related topics.

Huntington Ingalls Industries won a $20.2 million contract modification to exercise options for the accomplishment of the planning yard services for the Littoral Combat Ship (LCS) in-service ships. Work will take place in Virginia, Mississippi, California and Jacksonville. Expected completion will be by April 2023.

The first Trial Kit Installation (TKI) onto a C-130H for the Avionics Modernization Program (AMP) Increment 2 program has been completed. 124 C-130Hs and 10 LC-130Hs will undergo this upgrade under a $690 million project. The next step is low rate initial production after the aircraft successfully completes testing.

Uganda is apparently catching up with Kenya on military spending. Uganda’s military expenditure reached $1.6 billion last year, an 8.3 percent increase from $984.7 million in 2020, according to the Sweden-based Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) an independent global security think tank. Meanwhile, Kenya’s military expenditure reached $1.113 billion last year, a 0.1 percent drop from $1.1 billion in 2020.

According to a report by Spiegel, Germany intends to transfer its Gepard self-propelled anti-aircraft gun (SPAAG) to Ukraine. Spiegel added that an announcement will be made at Ramstein Air Force Base today regarding the transfer and training of Ukrainians to operate the PzH 2000 155 mm self-propelled howitzer that the Netherlands is donating to Ukraine. KraussMaffei Wegmann, the manufacturer of the Gepard, had indicated in February that 50 units is ready for transfer after undergoing some repairs.

More than a dozen European allies will get nearly $400 million in new US grants to buy American military hardware to backfill weapons the have donated to Ukraine from their own stockpiles, the State Department announced Monday. Of more than $700 million in newly announced aid for Ukraine, $391 million in Foreign Military Financing is for 15 allies in Central and Eastern Europe and the Balkans, while another $322 million is for Ukraine forces to “transition to more advanced weapons and air defense systems,” State Department Ned Price said in a statement.

European aerospace firm Airbus has announced that it will supply the Philippine Air Force with two additional C295M medium tactical transport aircraft beginning later this year. The delivery is expected to boost the country’s airlifting capability and support other maritime security needs.

WATCH: Essential for Pakistan Navy. Turkey’s New UCAV AKINCI Engages Sea Target For The 1st Time.

Northrop Grumman won a $38 million contract modification, which increases the contract ceiling to procure an additional 173 Tech Refresh Mission Computers (TRMC) and an additional 173 TRMC trays in support of the Army’s domestic production UH-60V aircraft. The UH-60V is an upgraded version of the current UH-60L aircraft. Instead of the UH-60L’s legacy cockpit, the newer version features a fully open, digital and integrated avionics suite. The changes increase the life and mission capabilities of the UH-60 platform. Work will take place in Utah and California. Expected completion date is December 2023.

The US Navy has disclosed its plan to deactivate five expeditionary electronic attack squadrons and send 25 EA-18Gs to the Aerospace Maintenance and Regeneration Group at Davis-Montham Air Force Base from 2024. These five squadrons, VAQ-131, 132, 134, 135, and 138, do not deploy on board aircraft carriers and are sent out to oversea bases to provide electronic attack capabilities to the joint force.

Mali has taken delivery of two Mi-24P attack helicopters from Russia on April 18. The rotorcraft arrived at Modibo Keita international airport. According to the news report, the 59N6-TE mobile radar was delivered as well. Flight tracking data showed that the cargo was flown to Africa via Turkey. Avoiding Greek and Italian air space to enter Tunisia.

Germany’s Bild am Sonntag newspaper has reported that Germany will be buying 60 CH-47F helicopters for $5.4 billion. Boeing beat Sikorsky to the contract due to pricing, according to the report. Germany will only be able to acquire 40 CH-53Ks for the same budget. Another advantage for Boeing is that the helicopter is being used by members of NATO.

The US State Department approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Ukraine. The sale includes various rounds of non-standard ammunition for an estimated cost of $165 million. The Government of Ukraine has requested to buy various rounds of non-standard ammunition to include, but not limited to, the following: 152mm rounds for 2A36 Giatsint; 152mm rounds for D-20 cannons; VOG-17 for automatic grenade launcher AGS-17; 120mm mortar rounds (non-NATO); 122mm rounds for 2Sl Gvozdika; BM-21 GRAD Rockets; 300mm rounds/rockets for MLRS “Smerch;” VOG-25 grenades for under barrel grenade launcher GP-25; 82mm mortar rounds; 125mm HE ammunition for T-72; 152mm rounds for 2A65 Msta; transportation; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The total estimated program cost is $165 million. On their trip to Kyiv to meet with Ukrainian President Zelenskyj,, US Secretary of State Antony Binken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin promised Ukraine $322m in US military aid.

Multinational defense manufacturer Thales has completed the development of 1,000 Hawkei protected mobility vehicles – light (PMV-L) for the Australian armed forces. The project is part of a $980-million contract signed between Australia and Thales in 2015 for the purchase of 1,100 Hawkei vehicles and 1,058 trailers delivered by 2022.

WATCH: Essential for Pakistan Navy. Turkey’s New UCAV AKINCI Engages Sea Target For The 1st Time.

Northrop Grumman won a $24.7 million contract modification, which exercises options to provide in service and technical support in support of E-2C/D aircraft common and unique requirements for Foreign Military Sales (FMS) customers. Work will take place in Florida, Japan, Ohio and various locations within the continental US. Expected completion will be in April 2023.

HMLA-367 was deactivated at MCAS Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii on April 22. All 27 AH-1Z and UH-1Y helicopters will be relocated to California and the squadron will be reactivated by end of the year at MCAS Camp Pendleton.

According to Jane’s, the Iranian military displayed a previously unseen air-defense system and at least two new types of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) during its Army Day parade in Tehran on April 19. The towed air-defense system had a launcher for three surface-to-air missiles and a phased-array radar mounted on a rotating platform. The launcher tilts backwards so the radar can fold forward to search and track targets when deployed.

The Italian Air Force is getting ready to deploy 4 F-35As to Keflavik Air Base, Iceland from Amendola Air Base next month. The two-month deployment will commence in May and more than 130 personnel will be heading to Iceland.

The US Air Force will be deploying its MQ-9 unmanned air vehicle to Greece’s Larissa Air Base in the coming weeks, news reports from Greece say. MQ-9s have previously been deployed to Larissa, which is home to the 110th Combat Wing of the Hellenic Air Force. However, this time, the faculties that the Americans are to utilize have been upgraded under the US-Greece Mutual Defense Cooperation Agreement (MDCA). $33.5 million was spent improving the base.

Taiwan is in the process of standing up between 20 to 25 squadrons in its navy to operate three types of anti-ship missiles. Media reports in Taiwan say these units will be equipped with Hsiung Feng II, Hsiung Feng III, extended-range Hsiung Feng III, and Harpoon missiles in the future. To support these units, new facilities such as ammunition depots, a driver training center, a maintenance center, and garages, will be built over the next few years.

WATCH: 10 Most Advanced Military Drones in the World

An AC-130J Ghostrider assigned to the 1st Special Operations Wing recently underwent Benefield Anechoic Facility (BAF) testing at Edwards Air Force Base for its new radio frequency countermeasures system. Back in 2017, the US Air Force selected BAE Systems to provide new radio frequency countermeasures equipment for the AC/MC-130J fleet.

Raytheon won a $482.7 million deal for DDG 1000 Class Combat System activation, sustainment and modernization support for Mission Systems and Total Ship Computing Environment infrastructure (TSCEi) hardware/equipment, in addition to non-recurring engineering services supporting combat system installation, integration, development, testing, correction, maintenance, and modernization of Zumwalt Class Mission Systems and Mission System equipment. Work will take place in Massachusetts, Rhode Island, California, New Hampshire, Mississippi and Indiana. Estimated completion will be by April 2023.

Palestinian militants fired volleys of rockets from Gaza into Israel. Israel responded with air strikes on April 21 in the biggest escalation since an 11 day war last year. According to police, a rocket from Gaza on Wednesday evening fell harmlessly in a garden in the southern Israeli city of Sderot. Israel struck back in central Gaza after midnight, witnesses and security sources said, prompting further launches of at least four rockets by militants in the besieged territory.

Hungary’s National Armament Director, Dr. Gáspár Maróth, announced that his country will buy 12 L-39NG aircraft. Four of those jets will be used for reconnaissance mission while the rest of the eight will be used to train pilots before they move on to the Gripen.

The Russian military said Wednesday it successfully performed the first test of a new intercontinental ballistic missile, a weapon President Vladimir Putin said would make the West “think twice” before harboring any aggressive intentions against Russia. The test launch of the Sarmat missile comes amid soaring tensions between Moscow and the West over the Russian military action in Ukraine and underlines the Kremlin’s emphasis on the country’s nuclear forces.

India has test-fired the anti-ship variant of its BrahMos cruise missile, striking and creating a massive hole in an abandoned Indian Navy ship. Demonstrating its integrated Network-Centric strike capabilities, the cruise missile was fired without a warhead from the guided-missile destroyer INS Delhi.

WATCH: AC-130J Ghostrider

Breeze-Eastern won a $8 million deal for the overhaul and upgrade of the Winch, Aircraft Mounted for the UH-60 Medical Evacuation Aircraft. HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter is a medical evacuation (MEDEVAC) version of the UH-60M Black Hawk multi-mission helicopter. Built by Sikorsky Aircraft for the US Army, the helicopter is designed to evacuate wounded troops from the battlefield.

Lockheed Martin Space won a $396.7 million contract modification for Trident II (D5) missile production and deployed systems support. The Trident II D5 is the latest generation of the US Navy’s submarine-launched fleet ballistic missiles, following the highly successful Polaris, Poseidon, and Trident I C4 programs. First deployed in 1990, the Trident II D5 missile is currently aboard OHIO-class and British VANGUARD-class submarines.Work will take place in Utah, Colorado, Florida, California, Arkansas, Tennessee, Massachusetts, Georgia, Illinois, Main, Maryland, New York and various other locations. Estimated completion date is September 30, 2026.

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. will participate at the IT²EC Exhibition in London conducting a first-ever live demonstration of its sophisticated ABS System – a Live Virtual Constructive (LVC) solution which is also being unveiled for the first time at a global exhibition. In addition, Rafael will present its advanced air defense training and simulation tools, most notably the Air Defense Optimizer (ADO). Both the ABS System and the ADO have a long-standing operational legacy.

The first shipments of the latest round of US military assistance to Ukraine, which includes heavier weapons systems, started arriving in the region over the weekend, according to the Pentagon. The recently approved $800 million in security assistance includes Howitzer artillery systems, 40,000 artillery rounds, armored personnel vehicles and other weapons.

Ukraine’s allies have pledged to send more weapons to help it defend against a renewed Russian offensive. The US and others vowed to send artillery, anti-tank and air defence aid to Kyiv during a 90-minute video call April 19. Ukraine says it needs the weapons to help defend itself as Russia launched a new campaign in the country’s east.

The State Department has decided to approve a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Australia of Defense Articles Related to Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio Systems and related equipment for $42 million. Australia has requested to buy 106 Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS) terminals; 15 MIDS JTRS, six terminals; and seven Multifunctional Information Distribution System MIDS-Low Volume Terminal (MIDS-LVT).

WATCH: Blackhawk HH-60 MEDEVAC startup and departure.

DRS Laurel Technologies won an $11.4 million deal for Ship Self Defense System (SSDS) Technical Insertion 2016 (TI-16) hardware production and engineering services. Work will take place in Johnstown, Pennsylvania. Expected completion date is in April 2023. This contract was competitively procured via the System for Award Management website, with four offers received.

Tech Ord, a division of AMTEC Corp., won a $35 million contract for the BBU-35A/B impulse cartridge. This contract provides an impulse cartridge comprised of a cylindrical aluminum case containing a firing electrode, bridge-wire, and propellant. Work will take place in Clear Lake, South Dakota and Grand Junction, Colorado. Expected completion date is April 30, 2028.

MilSup LLC won a $10.5 million contract modification for the RC/OC/WC-135 and E-4B Aircrew Training and Courseware Development Contract. This modification exercises Option Year One. Work will take place in Nebraska. Expected completion date is in April 30, 2023.

The Israeli Air Force has attacked Hamas targets in the Gaza Strip in the early hours of Tuesday morning, following a rocket launch by the terrorist group last night, which was intercepted by the Iron Dome. The rocket launch is perceived as another attempt to fan the flames in the area, following several days of unrest in the Temple Mount (Al Aqsa). While Monday was a relatively calm day as far as riots and disturbances – the political / diplomatic front was on fire.

The president of the European Commission has urged member states to supply Ukraine with weapons systems “quickly” and suggested that a next round of EU sanctions could target Russia’s powerful Sberbank and include an embargo on Russian oil. “It applies to all member states: those who can should deliver quickly, because only that way Ukraine can survive in its acute defensive battle against Russia,” Ursula von der Leyen told Germany’s Bild am Sonntag newspaper. Several European nations appear to be vacillating over the export of heavy weapons such as tanks or fighter jets, amid concerns that such a move could formally escalate the war in Ukraine into a direct conflict between Russia and Nato member states. Von der Leyen urged European leaders not to delay decisions over category differences. “I don’t distinguish between heavy and light weapons,” she said. “Ukraine has to get whatever it needs to defend itself and what it can handle.”

North Korea has test-fired a new type of tactical guided weapon designed to boost its nuclear fighting capability, a day before its chief rivals the United States and South Korea begin annual drills that the North views as an invasion rehearsal. The 13th weapons test this year came amid concerns that North Korea may soon conduct an even larger provocation.

During the visit of Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to attend the 8th Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) meeting in March in Colombo, India and Sri Lanka signed several agreements including a defense-related pact to expand maritime security. As such, a joint Maritime Rescue Coordination Center (MRCC) will be set up to strengthen Sri Lanka’s capacities in its search and rescue region with a $6 million grant funded by the Indian government.

WATCH: Inside The Military’s $223 Million ‘Doomsday Plane’

Huntington Ingalls won a 41.7 million contract modification to exercise options for accomplishment of follow yard services for the DDG 51 Class destroyer program. The DDG 51 class guided missile destroyers are warships that provide multi-mission offensive and defensive capabilities. Destroyers can operate independently or as part of Carrier Strike Groups, Surface Action Groups, and Expeditionary Strike Groups. Work under the modification will take place in Mississippi, Washington DC and Maine. Estimated completion will be by April 2023.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics won a $23 million deal, which provides initial product support maintenance of the F-35 Lightning II chase aircraft necessary to support F-35 aircraft acceptance and delivery at the final assembly and check out facility, to include all pre and post-flight activities, the removal and replacement of failed components, and return the aircraft to a clean and compliant condition suitable for first-time delivery of the operational F-35 aircraft to the Air Force, Navy, non-US Department of Defense participants, and Foreign Military Sales customers. Work will take place in Texas. Expected completion date is in December 2022.

According to Jane’s, Israeli company UVision’s Hero Loitering Munition (LM) will be integrated on board a variety of Rheinmetall platforms such as the Boxer CRV, the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (under contract with the Hungarian MoD), and the Mission Master unmanned ground vehicle (UGV). Speaking at their inaugural Loitering Munition (LM) Symposium in Bristol on last month, Rheinmetall UK and UVision representatives have disclosed details of the future of their strategic co-operation agreement, which was signed in October 2021.

Atlas Elektronik UKhas been awarded a $41million contract to provide autonomous mine-hunting systems for the British Royal Navy. The contract was awarded by the Mine Hunting Capability team of the UK Ministry of Defense’s procurement arm, Defense Equipment and Support.

The launch of China’s first CATOBAR (“Catapult Assisted Take-Off But Arrested Recovery”) aircraft carrier has been delayed due to labor shortages at the shipyard in Shanghai, SCMP reports. China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) had to deploy its employees to the city to help fight the COVID19 pandemic in the city. The company said it help build three temporary hospitals on Changxing island last month. Organizing a launch ceremony is also difficult as there are worries of the mass spreading of the virus at a large event.

Taiwan will lengthen the runway of Taiping Island Airport on Taiping Island in the South China Sea from 1150 meters to 1500 meters. This will allow Taiwan to deploy fighters to the island if necessary. Taiwan has been extending the pier on the southwest side of the island and the sand that was dredged out will be used to reclaim land for the runway extension on the west side of the runway.

WATCH: hType 003 Aircraft Carrier – China’s New Super Carrier Review

Toyon Research won a $11.7 million contract modification, which procures the following AN/ALQ-231(V) Intrepid Tiger (IT II) Family of Systems production hardware: 24 (V) 4 maintenance stands; 18 (V) 4 radio frequency (RF) coupler sets (aft); 18 (V) 4 RF coupler sets (forward); seven IT II V3 direction finding array RF coupler sets; and seven IT II V3 RF couplers. Additionally, this contract provides engineering support to include life cycle and incidental engineering support as well as analyses, development, integration, test, documentation, repair/maintenance, and engineering test support for the Electronic Warfare Center and Electronic Attack communications jamming airborne (fixed wing, rotary wing, and unmanned air systems), ground based systems, and laboratories. Work will take place in California, Arizona. Expected completion date is in March 2027.

Sikorsky won a $40.4 million modification, which increases maintenance of the CH-53K low rate initial production configuration aircraft. The Sikorsky CH-53K Super Stallion heavy-lift helicopter is being developed by Sikorsky Aircraft to replace the CH-53E helicopter of the US Marine Corps (USMC). Work will take place in California, Connecticut and various locations within the continental US. Estimated completion is in December 2026.

Rafael and the Israeli Ministry of Defense’s Directorate of Defense Research and Development have successfully completed a series of ground-breaking tests with a high-power laser interception system against steep-track threats. The demonstrator successfully intercepted UAVs, mortars, rockets, and anti-tank missiles in various scenarios. Rafael’s Iron Beam provides Israel with a capability unlike one seen elsewhere in the world by successfully developing a high-power laser technology at an operational standard with operational interception capabilities.

The Romanian Ministry of Defense has decided to suspend all flight operations of its MiG-21 fighters after a series of fatal accidents. Last month, a MiG-21 crashed killing its pilot. An IAR 330 that was scrambled to search for the fighter also crashed, killing seven on board. Romania says it will now speed up the process to acquire 32 F-16s that are offered for sale by Norway. The country will also rely on its current F-16s to protect its airspace.

AeroVironment won a $19.7 million deal for RQ-20 Puma AE systems, reconnaissance surveillance and target acquisition kits, initial spares package, contractor logistics support and new equipment training for the country of Ukraine. Work will take place in Simi Valley, California. The US Army Contracting Command will be overseeing the implementation of the contract and AeroVironment has to complete deliveries by May 30.

Japan scrambled its second-highest number of fighters on record in FY 2021, the Defense Ministry disclosed on April 15. The highest on record was in 2016 with 1168 scrambles. Last fiscal year was 1004 scrambles. 772 of these scrambles were against Chinese aircraft, 266 were against Russian aircraft.

WATCH: ‘Iron Beam’ laser defense system succeeds in first test

The US Air Force (USAF) has told Congress it could use additional dollars for more F-35 Lightning II fighters, hypersonic weapons testing, and munitions if the funds are available in fiscal year (FY) 2023, according to the service’s unfunded priority list. The service said it could use an additional $921 million to buy seven more Lockheed Martin F-35A conventional variant fighters to add to its official request for 33 fighters.

Balfour Beatty Construction LLC won a $697.8 million deal or design and construction of East Campus Building #4 and a 1,186,000 square-foot parking structure at Fort Meade. Bids were solicited via the internet with three received. Work will be performed at Fort Meade, Maryland, with an estimated completion date of April 13, 2026.

Turkey has equipped its Anka unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) with a synthetic aperture radar (SAR) to detect naval mines. Turkey is concern over mines that have been found recently in the Black Sea. These mines were deployed after Russia attacked Ukraine. So far three naval mines have been found and defused by the Turkish military.

The US State Department approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Nigeria of AH-1Z Attack Helicopter Related FMS Acquisitions and related equipment for an estimated cost of $997 million. The Government of Nigeria has requested to buy twelve AH-1Z Attack Helicopters; twenty-eight (28) T-700 GE 401C engines (24 installed, 4 spares); and two thousand (2,000) Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) guidance sections. Also included is Night Vision Cueing Display (NVCD); commercial variant GPS with Standard Positioning Service (SPS); communication equipment; electronic warfare systems; AN/AVS-9 Aviator’s Night Vision Imaging System; M197 20mm machine gun; Target Sight System (TSS); support equipment; spare engine containers; spare and repair parts; tools and test equipment; technical data and publications; personnel training and training equipment; Mission Planning system; US Government and contractor engineering; technical, and logistics support services; US Government and contractor assistance and oversight of facilities construction to include the provisioning of plans, drawings and specifications; $25M of case funds will be allocated for institutional and technical assistance to the Armed Forces of Nigeria (AFN) to continue Air Ground Integration (AGI) program, which includes developing targeting processes that are legally compliant with International Humanitarian Law and the Laws of Armed Conflict; and other related elements of logistics and program support.

Visiting Italian defense minister Lorenzo Guerini told his Japanese counterpart Nobuo Kishi that Italy is interested in the development of Japan’s next generation F-X fighter program. Both sides have signed an accord on the transfer of defense equipment and technology back in 2017.

Defense News has obtained a spreadsheet detailing the backlogged equipment, which includes Taiwan’s $8 billion purchase of 66 F-16 fighter jets as well as $620 million to replace expiring components of its Patriot missile system. Pandemic-related acquisition issues have sparked a backlog in the US delivering $14.2 billion worth of military equipment to Taiwan that the island has purchased since 2019.

WATCH: F-X Japanese 6th Generation Fighter Jet

I was back on the Blog Talk Radio show Midrats this week, talking about Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Russia’s strategy, what might happen next, and consequences for Russia’s domestic politics. The recording is now available on the show’s website. The show description is as follows:

Episode 621: Russian Military SITREP with Dr. Dmitry Gorenburg

For over 11-years, once a year or so today’s guest has joined us on Midrats to discuss the latest military and national security developments with Russia.

With the war waging in Ukraine and in the process of transitioning to a new phase, there couldn’t be a better time to hear from Dr. Dmitry Gorenburg who will be with us for the full hour in a wide ranging discussion about the buildup to war, and the important takeaways so far.

Lockheed Martin won a $13 million contract modification under the previously awarded Aegis Weapon Systems contract HQ085121C0002. This in scope modification increases the ceiling on Contract Line Item Number (CLIN) 0012. This CLIN and contract modification will be incrementally funded at time of award. Work will take place in New Jersey. Estimated completion is October 31, 2022.

Boeing won a $10.8 million modification, which exercises options to procure 359 Primary Bleed Air Pressure Regulator (PBAR) valves in support of the Environmental Control System PBAR and Shut Off Valve Improvement modifications to the F/A-18 E/F and EA-18G aircraft. Work will take place in Connecticut, California and Missouri. Estimated completion date is in June 2024.

Israeli company BIRD Aerosystems announced it was chosen by the Israeli Ministry of Defense (MOD) through MAFAT – the Defense Ministry’s Directorate of Research and Development, to demonstrate a prototype of a new defense system that will protect ground troops and high-value assets against various kinds of threats and missiles, including anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM).

American International Contractors, Inc. has secured a $26 million contract to build an F-16 maintenance hangar for the Egyptian Air Force at Marsa Matrouh Air Base. With a space of 6,608 square meters, the hangar can service four F-16s at the same time.

The Royal Navy has pushed two different drone designs ‘to their limits’ in order to see how much utility they might have for front-line operations.  The Malloy Aeronautics T-600 quadcopter and Windracers Autonomous Systems’ Ultra drone “proved their abilities to carry heavy payloads of 100kg over long distance and more than 250kg over a shorter distance”.

China has delivered anti-aircraft missile systems to Serbia as part of a deal, which the European nation signed with China that also included drones. Chinese Foreign Affairs Ministry spokesperson Zhao Lijian told reporters Monday the delivery was part of the two countries’ annual cooperation plan, does not target any third parties and “has nothing to do with the current situation.”

WATCH: Ballistic Missile Defense System AEGIS How it Works

Leidos won a $12.5 million contract modification for the Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory Autonomous Littoral Connector (ALC) project. The ALC project integrates autonomy onto connectors (vessels) to deliver equipment, fuel or supplies from ship-to-shore and throughout the littoral environment; improves autonomous beaching, well deck ops, payload integration; conducts an Amphibious Assault Direction System spiral; and adds autonomous navigation to multiple vessels. This modification provides for the execution of Option 7, Contract Line Item Number 0015, for an additional vessel (AV) and design, build and test of AV #1. Work will take place in Virginia and is expected to be completed by April 10, 2026.

The Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) has received Lockheed’s submission for the endurance record in the Group 2 (5 to <25-kilogram) category. The company says the flight was possible due to the installation of an external, wing-mounted fuel tank.

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. released its financial results for the 2021 fiscal year as was approved by the company’s Board of Directors, with a total of $3.075 billion in sales, and a net profit of $133 million. In 2021, Rafael registered over 4.7 billion dollars in orders, and its order backlog was 7.1 billion dollars, equivalent to 2.5 years of sales activity. For the first time, Rafael incorporated the financial reports of its subsidiaries Aeronautics and Controp.

Slovakia’s Prime Minister Eduard Heger says his country is willing to donate its MiG-29s to Ukraine if an arrangement can be made to secure the country’s own airspace. Currently, the country has placed orders for the F-16s but they are not being delivered until 2024. Slovakia recently donated its S-300P air defense missile system to Ukraine.

South Korea says it will send its first locally-developed spy satellite into space orbit next year using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket. There will be a total of four 800kg satellites which will be equipped with infrared sensors or synthetic aperture radars.

The Australian Department of Defense is to fast-track the acquisition of the latest-variant Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA) Naval Strike Missile (NSM) Block 1A to replace the in-service RGM-84 Harpoon Block II anti-ship missile on the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN’s) Anzac-class frigates and Hobart-class destroyers.

WATCH: F 16 vs MiG 29 – Which would win?