Defense`s Feeds

Americas

The US Air Force’s 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron has started to paint their WC-130J Hurricane Hunters back to the original shiny gray paint scheme and the first repainted aircraft returned back to Keesler Air Force Base on April 5. “Prior to 2007, the squadron’s aircraft all had glossy gray paint, which was used on weather reconnaissance aircraft, primarily for its durability, longevity, and efficiency,” said Lt. Col. Erik Olson, 53rd WRS director of operations.

Martin Defense Group LLC won a $15 million deal for the development of an Amphibious Vehicle for Unmanned Surface Mobility (AVUSM). This contract provides for technology development and maturation with the objective of transitioning the technology /capability to Navy and/or Marine Corps acquisition programs. The AVUSM system provides the capability of autonomously delivering a lay-flat fuel line hose from a floating embarkment platform, through the surf-zone, to above a high water mark line for fuel delivery in support of Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations. This is also known as a Reach-to-the-Beach capability. Work will take place in Hawaii and estimated completion date is April 5, 2025.

Middle East & Africa

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is partnering up with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to convert 767 airliners into airborne refueling tankers in India. Both parties have signed a Memorandum of Understanding for this endeavor, HAL said in a statement. The Indian Air Force has a long-standing requirement for new aerial refueling tankers and the Indian government stated that it prefers to procure defense equipment locally.

Europe

According to the Austrian newspaper Der Standard, Swedish company Saab is offering its Gripen to Austria through its subsidiary Saab Aeronautics Austria. Austria is currently relying on 15 Eurofighters, which were delivered after a questionable deal at the request of the Social Democratic Party in 2017 without the essential elements of self-defense, night operation capability and long-range weapons. Retrofitting the Eurofighter from tranche one as well as the procurement of spare parts is considered to be extremely expensive, because relevant components are no longer produced for the aircraft of this first series. Enter Saab, which is offering a Gripen solution to the Austrian Army. The company is reportedly betting on a government-to-government deal.

UK Defence Equipment and Support (DE&S) has awarded Surrey Satellite Technology Ltd (SSTL) a $28 million contract to design and build a new satellite under project MINERVA, DE&S announced on April 4. The 150kg satellite will be based on SSTL’s Carbonite+ platform and delivered under the three-year build programme.

Asia-Pacific

Two Boeing Super Hornets are set to arrive at INS Hansa, India in the middle of next month to conduct shore-based ski jump testing. According to local news reports, the date is set to be May 21 provided the fighter jets can secure midair refueling services to make the trip.

Today’s Video

WATCH: Saab JAS 39 Gripen Multirole Fighter

Americas

Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States are cooperating on hypersonic weapons and electronic warfare capabilities. This was announced by the leaders of the three countries have said. The move comes amid growing concern by the US and allies about China’s growing military assertiveness in the Pacific. US President Joe Biden, British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and Australian Prime Minister Scott Morrison announced the plan after holding a check-in on the progress of AUKUS, the Indo-Pacific alliance that was launched by the three countries in September.

The United States’ next-generation land-based intercontinental ballistic missile system (ICBM) has been designated as the LGM-35A Sentinel. It will replace the aging Minuteman III missiles. The new weapon will incorporate low-risk, technically mature components that allow it to have a modular design that can incorporate new technologies as it operates into the 2070s.

Middle East & Africa

According to Jane’s, the US 5th Fleet has transferred the Cyclone class patrol ships it recently retired to Bahrain. The Bahrain Defense Force reportedly identified the ships as RBNS Al-Gurairiyah, RBNS Al-Sakhir, RBNS Al-Farooq, RBNS Jenan, and RBNS Damsah.

Europe

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) supplied the Czech Republic with the first air defense Multi-Mission Radar (MMR). This is part of a deal signed in December 2019 by the Ministries of Defense of both the Czech Republic and Israel. The radar, which is operational and combat-proven in Israel, provides both surveillance and defense capabilities to customers around the world, and is integrative with NATO systems. The radar detects and classifies threats, and supplies weapons systems with the data necessary to neutralize a number of those threats simultaneously. Thanks to the system’s advanced tracking capabilities, the radar provides situational awareness which is both precise and reliable, and includes the detection and identification of targets having low signatures.

Asia-Pacific

Jane’s reports that Indonesia plans to reverse engineer the Chinese C-705 anti-ship missile and a local consortium has been established to carry out the project. Aerospace company PT Dirgantara Indonesia, defense electronics enterprise PT Len, explosives manufacturer PT Dahana, and heavy vehicles and ammunition producer PT Pindad will be led by Directorate for Technology and Defense Industry from the Ministry of Defense.

The US State Department has approved the potential sale to Taiwan of equipment, training and other items to support the Patriot Air Defense System in a deal valued at up to $95 million, the Pentagon said. Chinese-claimed Taiwan has complained of increased military pressure by Beijing to try and force the democratically ruled island to accept its sovereignty. The package would include training, planning, fielding, deployment, operation, maintenance and sustainment of the Patriot Air Defense System and associated equipment, the Pentagon said, in a notification to Congress.

Today’s Video

WATCH: The Logic Behind the Patriot Missile System

Americas

Raytheon has proven that its High Energy Laser Weapon System (HELWS) can pair with the National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) to defeat drones. During a demonstration at White Sands, the NASAMS Fire Distribution Center provided cues to the HELWS which then track, identify and quickly take down drones using its electro-optical/infrared sensors. Nine Group 1 and Group 2 drones were taken down in the demonstration.

Northrop Grumman won a $65.3 million contract modification, which exercises options to provide continued operation, logistics and sustainment engineering support, to include training, supply chain and spares management for Global Hawk peculiar items, peculiar support equipment, and technical publications in support of ensuring the Broad Area Maritime Surveillance Demonstrator (BAMS-D) aircraft are mission-capable for intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance missions. Work will take place in Maryland, California and is expected to be completed in April 2023.

Middle East & Africa

Israel and the United Arab Emirates have completed negotiations on a bilateral free trade agreement. The issue was discussed by Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Zayed at their meeting in Abu Dhabi last December, at which it was agreed to accelerate the contacts ahead of the signing, and at their meeting in Egypt last week, at which the leaders agreed to complete the agreement within days.

Europe

British ship HMS Prince of Wales and frigate HMS Richmond joined Exercise Northern Viking 22. Viking 22 is an exercise practising the defense of the sea routes around Iceland. Among the countries participating in this exercise, which started on April 2, include France, Germany, Iceland, Norway, Portugal, the UK and the US. Their combined forces bring several capabilities to the exercise across the air, land and at-sea domains. HMS Prince of Wales has spent much of the past month taking part in Exercise Cold Response in the Arctic.

The US government cleared a potential Foreign Military Sale package for 8 F-16C/D fighters worth up to $1.673 billion to Bulgaria. Transmittal No 22-14 says the package is for four F-16Cs and four F-16Ds. They will be powered by F100-GE-129D engines which Bulgaria is buying 11 with three being spares.

Asia-Pacific

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), together with India’s Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO), successfully completed a series of trials that resulted in four successful interceptions  by the jointly-developed MRSAM Air and Missile Defense System. The interceptions were carried out in an operational setting against various scenarios, at different interception ranges, interception heights and challenging angles. The systems were operated by India’s Air Force and Navy, alongside DRDO and IAI engineers.

Today’s Video

WATCH: TThis is the $220 Million US Air Force RQ-4 Global Hawk Spy Plane

Over 30 experts from across Europe met on 1 April for a workshop organised under the EDA-managed Incubation Forum for Circular Economy in European Defence (IF CEED) to discuss the crucial question of green procurement potential for the defence sector.

The meeting built on the results of a questionnaire distributed last December to EDA participating Member States’ (pMS) procurement experts about potential actions that could be taken to exploit the potential of green defence procurement to support the EU Green Deal. 

During the workshop, participants from 14 Member States’ Ministries of Defence (MoDs) shared experiences and lesson learned in applying green and circular criteria in defence procurement, and discussed potential needs and required actions for further improvement of green procurement in MoDs. Specific contributions were made by experts from the Dutch MoD and from the Nordic Defence Cooperation (NORDEFCO), as well as by the Consultation Forum for Sustainable Energy in the Defence and Security Sector (CF SEDSS). The idea is that the IF CEED’s joint discussions and activities will help trigger concrete collaborative actions and projects aiming at strengthening the green/circular procurement in the defence area.

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

Americas

Lockheed Martin won a $23 million contract modification adds scope for the development and stand up of the initial F-35 Joint Strike Fighter depot repair capability for the Weapon Bay Door Drive System and Hydraulic Power Generation System, as well as provides increased repair capacity for the Electro-Optical Distributed Aperture System. Work will take place in the UK, California, Texas and Illinois. Estimated completion will be in April 2025.

The US Air Force’s Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC) has started testing its first adaptive cycle engine, the XA100 from General Electric. This is part of the Phase 2 testing program and the first phase was carried out in Evendale, Ohio last November. GE claims fuel efficiency improvements by 25 percent while 10 percent more thrust when the XA100 is mounted on the F-35A or C model.

Middle East & Africa

Dyncorp International won an $11.3 million contract modification for aviation maintenance services. Work will take place in New York and Kuwait. Estimated completion date is November 28, 2022. Estimated completion date is November 28, 2022. US Army Contracting Command is the contracting activity.

Dari Concepts LLC won a $10 million contract for labor, materials and supplies to acquire, deliver and install security systems along the perimeter of the International Zone in Baghdad, Iraq. Bids were solicited via the internet with eight received. Work will take place in Baghdad, Iraq. Estimated completion date is December 27, 2022.

Europe

Lockheed Martin Space won a $68.3 million deal to provide the United Kingdom (UK) with engineering, technical support services, and deliverable materials for the UK Fleet Ballistic Missile Program requirements that are identified and integrated to support planned milestone schedules and emergent requirements. UK resident technical support, operational support hardware, and consumable spares are also provided. Work will take place in Colorado, Pennsylvania, Florida, California, Scotland and Washington.

Asia-Pacific

South Korea will develop stealth drones, satellites, and other cutting-edge military equipment to address evolving threats, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) announced. The plan is part of the country’s policy priorities to bolster its defense and security capabilities as North Korea continues developing nuclear weapons and high-powered missiles.

Today’s Video

WATCH: The World Loves The F-35

Americas

Lockheed Martin won a $1.4 billion contract modification for the production of Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) Interceptors and associated one-shot devices to support the US government and Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) Foreign Military Sales case requirements. The THAAD Interceptors and associated one-shot devices will be procured under fixed-price incentive (firm target) contract line items. Work will take place in Texas, California, Arkansas and Alabama. Estimated completion date is August 1, 2027.

Lockheed Martin Space won a $18.6 million contract modification for Trident II (D5) missile production and deployed systems support. Trident II D-5 is the sixth generation member of the US Navy’s Fleet Ballistic Missile (FBM) program which started in 1956. Systems have included the Polaris (A1), Polaris (A2), Polaris (A3), Poseidon (C3), and Trident I (C4). The first deployment of Trident II was in 1990 on the USS Tennessee (SSBN 734). Work will take place in Florida, Utah, Maryland, Colorado, California, Arkansas and Florida. Estimated completion date is September 30, 2026.

Middle East & Africa

Turkish Aerospace Industries is offering Malaysia joint production on several front-line military aircraft, the company said at the Defence Services Asia 2022 exhibition in Kuala Lumpur. TAI president and CEO Temel Kotil told journalists that the joint production commitment is supported through TAI’s investment in the Southeast Asian country. He said TAI has recently established a Malaysian engineering facility, which it wants to develop as an avionics hub.

Europe

The Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) has awarded a contract to Saab for the mid-life upgrade (MLU) of the Royal Swedish Navy’s (RSwN’s) third Gotland (Type A19)-class diesel-electric submarine (SSK), HSwMS Halland. The scope of the award, valued at $116 million, includes a major platform overhaul and upgrade of the combat system that will enable Halland to remain in service to around 2030.

HMS Belfast, a Second World War cruiser turned museum ship, is to be reactivated and renamed by the end of this month in order to patrol the English Channel. The vessel’s current name has been taken by a new frigate under construction on the Clyde so it’s understood that the Prime Minister is renaming the vessel HMS Boris Johnson. This comes after claims that the Royal Navy, is already over-stretched and under-resourced.

Asia-Pacific

Australia has scrapped its Project Air 7003, a multimillion-dollar programme, which was conceived to strengthen the country’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities across land and maritime environments. The $1.3 billion programme was on schedule to deliver 12–16 armed, medium-altitude, long-endurance MQ-9B SkyGuardians to Australia. The aircraft were to have been in service by the mid-2020s.

Today’s Video

WATCH: The Gotland-class Submarine – one of the most silent submarines in the world

Major General Stefano Cont has been appointed EDA Capability, Armament and Planning (CAP) Director as of 1 April 2022. He previously held the position of Italian Defence Cooperation Attaché in Washington where his primary duties were to promote bilateral military relations and enhance cooperation in research and development of defence programmes. 

“I am honoured to join the European Defence Agency at a crucial moment for European defence in general, and for the Agency in particular. At a time when defence expenditure is expected to increase significantly throughout Europe because of the war in Ukraine and heightened global security threats, European cooperation and collaborative capability development will be key to make sure the money is spent well and efficiently. EDA will have a central role to play in making this cooperation possible, and I look forward to contributing to this important work as the Agency’s Capability, Armament and Planning Director, together with its highly qualified and experienced staff”, Stefano Cont stated when he took up his new post.

As Capability, Armament & Planning Director, Stefano Cont will lead a key directorate that has a crucial function in EDA’s overall mission because it prepares the programmes of tomorrow by maximising synergies between capabilities, armaments and research & technology. The Agency’s main capability programmes are all under the responsibility of this directorate - from military mobility and air-to-air refueling (AAR) to satellite communications and cyber defence. Mr Cont’s directorate also leads the Agency’s work on the EU’s Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD – for which the second report will be presented by the Agency in November) and plays a central role in the upcoming review of Member States’ Capability Development Plan (CDP). Both tools are central for steering and guiding collaborative and coherent capability development in Europe.

Mr Cont holds degrees in Aeronautical Sciences and Political and Military Sciences from Federico II University in Naples, and Midwestern State University (USA). He also has Masters in International and Military’s Strategic Studies (Rome), Public Management (MSU-USA) and National Security Strategy (National Defense University-USA) and a doctor title in International and Diplomatic Sciences from the University of Trieste.

More information

• CV Stefano Cont 

 

Americas

DynCorp International won a $100 million deal, which provides organizational, selected intermediate, and limited depot level maintenance, as well as logistics support services for the Navy F/A-18C/D/E/F, EA-18G, MH-60S, E-2C, and F-16A/B/C/D aircraft. Work will take place in Nevada. Estimated completion will take place in September 2023.

The South Carolina National Guard’s 1-151st Attack Reconnaissance Battalion recently took delivery of five AH-64E V6 attack helicopters. These helicopters arrived at McEntire Joint National Guard Base on March 24. “The arrival of the AH-64E model Apache Guardian to the South Carolina Army National Guard is a vast technological step forward for South Carolina,” said US Army Col. Jay McElveen, 59th Aviation Troop Command commander, South Carolina National Guard.

Middle East & Africa

Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri has launched the fourth Al Zubarah-class corvette on order for Qatar. The ship Sumaysimah was launched during a ceremony held at Fincantieri’s Muggiano shipyard in La Spezia on March 29. Sumaysimah is the final ship of the class to be built by Fincantieri under a contract awarded in 2016. The multiship order, worth $4.47 billion, also includes the delivery of a landing platform dock (LPD) and two offshore patrol vessels (OPVs).

According to Defense News, Turkey is in negotiations to acquire up to 100 people to power its first indigenous tank, the Altay. Turkey’s highest defense procurement official, Ismail Demir, said the charges against the organization are focused on the quantity of power packs (which the engine and transmission make up) that would be pumped for the Altay program.

Europe

In a Norwegian fjord inside the Arctic Circle, the ‘Surveillance and Reconnaissance Squadron’ launched small teams from an Astute class submarine for ‘subsurface insertion’ missions. Their aim was to undergo reconnaissance missions on the rocky, icy shoreline in sub-zero temperatures while avoiding the multi-national ‘enemy’ force hunting them.

Asia-Pacific

India is getting a batch of JDAMs and these will be used to arm the indigenous Tejas fighter. Besides the JDAM, India is also procuring the French-made Armement Air-Sol Modulaire (AASM) precision-guided munition for the Tejas.

Today’s Video

WATCH: Al Zubarah-class: The New Power of Qatari Emiri Navy

Americas

Boeing won a $16 million delivery order for the repair of various avionics equipment used on the F/A-18 aircraft. The F/A-18 Hornet is an all-weather jet aircraft that is used by the US Navy and Marine Corps as both a fighter and attack platform. In its fighter mode, the F/A-18 is used primarily as a fighter escort and for fleet air defense; in its attack mode, it is used for force projection, interdiction and close and deep air support. The single-seat F/A-18/E and the two-seat F/A-18/F fly greater ranges with heavier payloads, have more powerful engines and provide greater survivability than its predecessor. Work will take place in California and Pennsylvania. Estimated completion date is March 2022.

Columbia Helicopters won a $8.8 million deal for overhaul/repair of the rotary wing head for the CH-47 Chinook. The Chinook CH-47F is an advanced multi-mission helicopter manufactured by American aerospace and defense firm Boeing for the US Army and international defense forces. Estimated completion date is October 31, 2024.

Middle East & Africa

Globes reports that Bahrain and UAE are keen on acquiring the IAI Arrow 3 ballistic missile defense system. The potential purchase was discussed at the Negev Summit in Israel. Besides the Arrow 3, both countries and Morocco are keen on purchasing the Iron Dome as well.

Europe

The State Department has approved a potential $368.5 million Foreign Military Sale, which could provide follow-on support services and related equipment for the UK’s Tomahawk Weapon System. Raytheon’s missile and defense business in Tucson, Arizona, will be the prime contractor on the proposed sale, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said. The deal will cover all three TWS segments: all-up-round missiles, the tactical Tomahawk weapon control system and the theater mission planning center.

Joint Expeditionary Force naval vessels escorted Danish and British supply ships as they delivered military vehicles and equipment to resupply the UK-led NATO Battlegroup in Estonia. The Ministry of Defense, that Royal Navy vessels have joined ships, aircraft and personnel from six Joint Expeditionary Force nations to provide support to NATO and bolster security in the Baltic Sea.

Asia-Pacific

The Philippine Air Force’s first C295 transport aircraft that it ordered has arrived home after a ferry flight from Spain. The aircraft landed at Clark Air Base just before sunset on March 28. The Philippines has ordered a total of three C295s. The three aircraft will join four other C295s that were ordered in the last decade and enter service with the 220th Airlift Wing.

Today’s Video

WATCH: The Boeing CH-47 Chinook

Americas

Lockheed Martin won a $92.5 million contract modification for Aegis Combat System Engineering Agent efforts for the design, development, integration, test and delivery of Advanced Capability Build 20. The Aegis Combat System is an American integrated naval weapons system. It uses powerful computers, radar and digital signal processing algorithms to track and guide weapons to destroy enemy targets. Work will take place in New Jersey. Expected completion is by December 2022.

The Canadian government has decided that it will buy the Lockheed Martin F-35 to replace its CF-18s, in a joint announcement by Public Services and Procurement Minister Filomena Tassi and Defense Minister Anita Anand. Opposition Conservatives pour cold water on the announcement as the ruling Liberal government had pledged back in 2015 not to buy the F-35.

Middle East & Africa

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in the aeronautics sector was inked during the meeting between the Minister of Industry and Trade, Mr. Ryad Mezzour, and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), Mr. Amir Peretz. This partnership is part of the implementation of the Joint Declaration between Morocco and Israel signed on December 22, 2020 in Rabat, in which the two countries expressed their willingness to promote dynamic and innovative bilateral economic cooperation in the fields of investment and technology.

Europe

According to the British Army, ‘Wildcat’ reconnaissance helicopters arrived at Siauliai Air Base in Lithuania earlier this month. The 1,500-mile journey from Royal Naval Air Station Yeovilton, Somerset took the four Wildcat Mk1 helicopters over some notable landmarks including the airfield and camp in Gutersloh, where 1AAC had been stationed 1993-2016.

Asia-Pacific

The Indian Navy commissioned the Indian Naval Air Squadron 316 (INAS 316), the service’s second P-8I aircraft squadron. A ceremony was held at INS Hansa, Goa on 29 March 2022. INAS 316 has been christened ‘Condors’ which are one of the largest flying land birds with a massive wingspan. The insignia of the squadron depicts a ‘Condor’ searching over the vast blue expanse of the sea.

The Thai government is planning to relocate Royal Thai Air Force fighters and Singapore F-16s based at Udon Thani airbase to Nam Phong airbase in the south. Bangkok Post quoted Gp Capt Wisarut Chanthapradit as saying that the relocation of training to Nam Phong will take place in the next three to four years.

Today’s Video

WATCH: British Army Deploy Four Super-Wildcat in Lithuania

Americas

Following the closure of the F-15C Weapons Instructor Course at Nellis Air Force Base, the Eagles assigned to the base have started to depart for other bases. The final course, Weapons Instructor Course 21-B, flew its last flights on December 8, 2021.

Sikorsky won a $25.6 million order, which provides non-recurring engineering efforts to integrate, test, and qualify re-designed data concentrator and blade fold distributor units that will mitigate component obsolescence and outdated test equipment used for the CH-53K aircraft. The CH-53K is the United States Marine Corps’ heavy lift replacement for the CH-53E. It can be fielded from amphibious assault ships for the transportation of personnel and equipment. It will also be used to carry external cargo loads. The aircraft can be operated from austere and remote forward operating bases. Work will take place in California, Connecticut, Texas and New York. Estimated completion will be in June 2023.

Middle East & Africa

Elbit Systems was awarded contracts with an aggregate value of approximately $130 million to deliver an artillery munitions production line in a country in Asia-Pacific. The contracts will be performed over a period of 2.5 years, the company said. Under the contracts, Elbit Systems will build an industrial complex for enhanced manufacturing of artillery munitions.

Europe

Serbian Armed Forces recently inducted new Nora self-propelled howitzers as well as two different types of armored vehicles- Lazars and Miloš. Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Nebojša Stefanovi?, PhD, visited the “Complex Combat Systems” factory in Velika Plana on March 23. He said the military would induct six Nora howitzers as well as six Lazar and few more Milos armored vehicles in that week.

Berlin is reportedly looking at the possibility of acquiring the IAI Arrow 3 exoatmospheric anti-ballistic missile system to defend the country from potential ballistic missile attacks from Russia. The discussions took place when chief of defense, Gen. Eberhard Zorn, spoke to Chancellor Olaf Scholz last week. According to German media, the system will costs $2.2 billion and three Green Pine radars will provide all-round coverage. The radar coverage is wide enough that neighboring countries such as Poland will need only to buy Arrow 3 interceptors and Germany’s radars can supply the necessary targeting information.

Asia-Pacific

India has announced the opening of a Flight Control System integration facility to support research and development for a new range of military aircraft. The new facility, constructed at the Aeronautical Development Establishment in Bengaluru, will help centralize the integration of avionics and hardware, which has been scattered across multiple manufacturers and research centers across the country.

Today’s Video

WATCH: Why Israel’s Arrow 3 Anti-Ballistic Missile System Test Is A Big Boost Amid Threat From Iran

Here are the abstracts from the latest issue of our Russian Media Analysis newsletter. You can also download the full text PDF version.

1. INVASION OF UKRAINE: NATO STRATEGY

Russian analysts are still focusing on the issue of NATO membership for Ukraine. Many point out that the ongoing war, while leading to a de facto defense arrangement between the “collective West” and Ukraine, has also hindered it from formally joining the alliance. Many authors believe that this is a benefit to Russia, although it has come at the cost of NATO unity and an amplification of arms supplies to Ukraine.

2. INVASION OF UKRAINE: EU STRATEGY

Connected to, although distinct from, the issue of Ukraine’s NATO ambitions, is the desire by its political leadership to join the EU. While Russian commentators are broadly pessimistic about how much defense cooperation there now is between Ukraine and the West, they are more optimistic that Ukraine’s EU bid will remain stalled for the foreseeable future. Although both sides have made many symbolic gestures to signal an agreement for membership down the road, concrete steps are harder to find, and the internal political machinations of the EU will further slow down integration.

3. INVASION OF UKRAINE: RESPONSES TO WESTERN SANCTIONS

More than a dozen articles offer responses to international sanctions against Russia, featuring reactions ranging from optimism to pessimism, and including skepticism and determination to wreak economic havoc on the West. Some serve to reassure the Russian public that even though foreign industries are leaving, they will still be able to access certain goods. Others discuss the prospect of more serious sanctions, such as EU bans on Russian oil and gas imports, or a U.S. sea-route trade embargo against Russia. The authors argue that such measures would introduce a number of cascading effects that would harm countries “hostile to Russia.”

4. INVASION OF UKRAINE: RESPONSES TO NATO MILITARY AID

The details and implications of NATO and U.S. military aid and efforts to arm Ukraine are the subject of several articles. It is evident that there is concern for the unified support that Ukraine is getting from the West, but there remains a confidence in the narrative surrounding Russian capabilities against the perceived lackluster quality of provisions going to Ukraine.

5. INVASION OF UKRAINE: U.S. NUCLEAR WEAPONS

Several articles address U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin’s decision to cancel a Minuteman III missile test following President Putin’s announcement that Russia put its nuclear forces on a “special combat regime duty.” While some experts characterize the test cancellation as an effort to avoid nuclear escalation, one article suspects that it helped avoid drawing attention to the stagnant U.S. nuclear modernization process. An additional article takes issue with the optics and messaging that the U.S. is responsibly conducting nuclear policy, when it has conducted “mock nuclear strikes” in recent exercises and increased the frequency of nuclear-capable aircraft flights near Russia’s border.

6. INVASION OF UKRAINE: PERCEPTIONS OF A NO-FLY ZONE

As Ukraine’s request for a West-enforced no-fly zone remains unmet, Russian commentators caution against the implementation of anything remotely close to it and highlight the escalatory nature of such potential actions by NATO and the U.S..

7. INVASION OF UKRAINE: UKRAINE AND NUCLEAR WEAPONS CONSPIRACY

A recent issue of the Ministry of Defense newspaper posits the conspiracy theory that “Ukraine’s scientific establishment has sufficient competencies to create a nuclear explosive device.” The content of this article appears to be drawn from a TASS report that cites the Russian intelligence agency SVR as a source of claims that Ukraine had an advanced missile and nuclear weapon program.

8. INVASION OF UKRAINE: THE BIOLABS CONSPIRACY

Coverage of the conspiracy theories about U.S. DTRA reference laboratories in Ukraine continues to proliferate across Russian media sources. It now includes official newspapers as well as MOD and MFA officials. Coverage has also begun to note statements made by Chinese government officials on this issue.

9. CHINESE-RUSSIAN RELATIONS

A number of articles in the Russian press assess the state of the Russian-Chinese relationship as well as China’s diplomatic and economic relations with the United States and the broader West. Many commentators are quick to point out that China is resistant to following along with the West’s sanctions regime against Russia, although also acknowledging that there remains much to be desired in terms of China’s closeness to Russia itself.

10. SCANDINAVIAN COUNTRIES AND NATO

The ambitions of Scandinavian countries to join NATO continue to be a worry for Russian commentators. Yet given the scale of hostilities in Ukraine, experts are quick to note that parallels with Ukraine-and any potential Russian reaction to new Scandinavian member-states-are improper. Although Russia assesses the membership of Sweden and Finland to NATO in a very negative light, it is clear that this issue is not an existential one compared to Russian perceptions of Ukraine’s or Georgia’s entrance into the alliance.

11. IRAN AND THE JCPOA

Russian commentators have maintained a close watch over U.S. actions and engagement with other OPEC+ and oil suppliers ever since the U.S. sanctioned Russian oil. Analysts have focused on the U.S.-Iran relationship and the relevance of Iranian oil to the JCPOA negotiations. They remain critical of U.S. moral flexibility and assert that the “special military operation” in Ukraine has had a profound impact on long-term global security, as is evidenced by the changing oil environment around the globe.

12. FOREIGN ACQUISITION OF U.S. ARMS

Several articles focus on and are critical of the proliferation of U.S. weaponry abroad. They include the legal sale of arms to Egypt and the resulting arms capabilities of the Taliban after the U.S. exit from Afghanistan.

13. U.S. STRATEGY IN THE ASIA PACIFIC

Amidst the Russian invasion of Ukraine, the Russian media maintain a close watch on U.S. policy developments in other areas of the world, especially the Indo-Pacific region.

14. INFORMATION WARFARE

Two articles address alleged acts of “information warfare” against Russia, tending to take on a defensive tone about Moscow’s leadership and the progress of the “special military operation.” The first article responds to recent quotes from U.S. Department of Defense spokesman John Kirby, who noted Russia’s history of use and potential future use of chemical and biological weapons. The second article details alleged activities from the 72nd Center for Information and Psychological Operations (CIPO) of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, which the article claims was trained by the UK.

15. U.S. AND EUROPEAN MILITARY CAPABILITIES

Several articles report on developments of U.S. and NATO capabilities and weapons systems. One article reports on funding cuts to the U.S. Air Force’s first hypersonic missile, the AGM-183A Air-Launched Rapid Response Weapon (ARRW). A second article reports on a reorganization of the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment that puts combat groups on the first and second island chains of the Pacific at a moment’s notice. A third article reports on Germany’s decision to purchase 35 American F-35A fighter jets to replace the Tornado fighter-bombers it uses to carry American B61 nuclear weapons.

EDA is working on the establishment of a European Terrain Database (ETDB) which will include a vast selection of images taken from across Europe to be made available to Member States’ Armed Forces for multiple military purposes. To this end, a Multinational Field Trial Exercise was held on 23/24 March at the land test centre of the Italian Armed Forces (Centro Polifunzionale di Sperimentazione) in Montelibretti near Rome. 

More than 30 experts from military test centres based in Italy, Sweden, Greece, Spain, the Netherlands, France and Portugal participated in the exercise co-organised by EDA and the Italian Secretariat General of the Defence and National Armaments Directorate - Technological Innovation Department. The first part of the event took place outdoor, in the wider area of the test centre, and was aimed at acquiring images with several cameras working in different spectral regions (visible, long wave Infrared, short wave Infrared) under diverse configurations (mounted on a drone or grounded). A large number of pictures of different terrain landscapes were taken, with and without a specific target. During the second part of the exercise, all these images were uploaded onto the prototypic software platform of the future European Terrain Database which will be installed on EDA servers in the coming months, ready to be populated by users from different participating Member States with unclassified images in different spectral regions (visible, Infrared wavelengths and microwave). The stored pictures will also include information and metadata deemed necessary or useful for their military usage in test and/or research activities.

Once established and fully accessible, the database can be used, for instance, for target recognition, the assessment and improvement of camouflage effectiveness, the testing and enhancement of sensors in different terrains, the generation of synthetic images or the support of modelling and simulation activities. 

The exercise participants came from different expert communities with an interest in the ETDB, particularly scientists and technicians specialised in Optronics and Radar sensor design (including materials) and performance prediction, design, development and testing of new camouflage, visible and infrared signature and Radar Cross Section mitigation solutions. The future dataset can be employed by the Ministries of Defence of all participating Member States for R&T initiatives as well as for operational and training purposes. The multinational field trial was therefore an excellent opportunity for those experts to meet and explore potential cooperation opportunities among European defence test centres.

The event was organised in the framework of EDA’s Defence Test & Evaluation Base (DTEB) initiative, which was launched in 2010 to collect, share and harmonise defence test & evaluation standards and procedures at European level. In the meantime, the DTEB has developed into a dynamic and useful network, not only of European Military Test Centres, but also of companies, universities and public/private research centres operating in the sector of defence technologies.

 

Americas

Boeing won a $71.8 million contract modification, which adds scope to provide segregable effort support, unknown obsolescence, Class I change assessments and obsolescence monitoring in support of the P-8A Multi-mission Maritime aircraft Lot 12 production line. Work will take place in Washington, California and Colorado. Estimated completion will be by April 2025.

Raytheon won a $40.4 million contract modification. This modification exercises an option to integrate, produce, qualify, test and field 29 Lot Two low-rate production Maritime Strike Tomahawk seeker suites and all subsystems required to provide midcourse and terminal guidance to a modernized Tactical Tomahawk missile for prosecution of maritime targets from surface and subsurface platforms. The seeker suites will be installed in recertified Tomahawk missiles for the Navy. Work will take place in Arizona, Colorado, Texas, Utah and Michigan.

Middle East & Africa

Contrack won a $34 million deal for the design bid-build construction of an electrical system upgrade at the Naval Support Activity in the Kingdom of Bahrain. Work will take place in Bahrain. Estimated completion date is October 19, 2024. The US State Department also has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Bahrain of M270 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) Upgrade and related equipment for an estimated cost of $176 million. Bahrain had requested to buy upgrades to 9 M270 Multiple Launch Rocket Systems (MLRS) to a M270 A1 minimum configuration. The upgrade will include: the Common Fire Control System (CFCS); Improved Launcher Mechanical System (ILMS); 600h Engine and associated engine compartment modifications; Improved Electronics Distribution Box (IEDB); fan speed control valve; cables and mounting hardware, Power Take Off (PTO) and BOO series transmission; the Digital Communication Systems (DCOMMS); Vehicular Intercom System (AN/VIC-3); and related support and equipment.

American International Contractors won a $24.8 million deal to construct an F-16 maintenance hangar at Marsa Matrouh Air Base in Egypt. US Army Corps of Engineers, Middle East District, is the contracting activity. Work will take place in Egypt. Estimated completion date is September 30, 2024.

Europe

Greece signed a deal for the procurement of six additional Rafale combat jets and three Belharra frigates with France. Eric Trappier, Chairman and CEO of Dassault Aviation, and Vice-Admiral Aristidis Alexopoulos, Director General of Armaments and Investments of the Greek Ministry of Defence, signed in Athens, in the presence of Florence Parly, French Minister of the Armed Forces, and Nikolaos Panagiotopoulos, Greek Minister of National Defence, a contract for the acquisition of six additional new Rafale aircraft, Dassault Aviation confirmed.

Asia-Pacific

South Korea’s Defense Project Promotion Committee has approved a $580 million project to buy new transport planes by 2026. Yonhap reports that the contenders are likely to be the Airbus A400M, Embraer C390 and Lockheed Martin C-130J. The committee also approve the upgrade of the Cheolmae-2 air defense interceptor with $591 million of funding. The upgrade will take place next year and runs till 2029. The Cheolmae-2 will have the ability to intercept ballistic missiles after the upgrade.

Today’s Video

WATCH: Tomahawk vs. Kalibr Cruise Missile

2021 has been a year of significant developments in the security and defence domain, both for Europe and the EU institutions in general, and for the European Defence Agency (EDA) in particular.

Amid rising threats in an increasingly tense geo-strategic environment, especially along the EU’s borders (build-up to the Russian invasion of Ukraine), EDA was involved last year in all major efforts to bring EU defence cooperation forward: from the preparation of the Strategic Compass (eventually adopted this week) and ministerial discussions on defence innovation, to the implementation of PESCO and European Defence Fund (EDF) sponsored projects and the launch of the second Coordinated Annual Review on Defence (CARD) cycle. The 2021 Annual Report, published today, provides a comprehensive overview of the work accomplished in EDA’s various activity domains throughout the past year.

The report reflects the progress made in the wide spectrum of the Agency’s activities, from its central role in the implementation of the EU defence initiatives (CARD, PESCO, EDF) and the increasing number of defence research and capability development projects and programmes (+11% compared to 2020), to the launch of new enablers and incentives for defence cooperation and EDA’s growing interface role towards wider EU policies.

From Personnel Recovery to Cyber Defence and C-IED exercise

Among the many 2021 highlights was the Agency’s successful involvement in the multinational Counter-Improvised Explosive Devices (C-IED) Exercise ‘Bison Counter21’ hosted by Italy in Sardinia. The Agency also prepared the launch, in 2022, of a new EDA Bison Counter C-IED Exercises Capability Building (BC-EX) project which foresees at least three additional exercises in 2023, 2025 and 2027.

2021 also saw EDA taking over the role of project manager for two important Cyber Defence and Communication & Information Services (CIS) projects financed under the European Defence Industrial Development Programme (EDIDP): one aimed at developing a European Cyber Situation Awareness Platform (ECYSAP), and other one meant to develop a European Command and Control System from strategic to tactical level (ESC2).

EDA’s prototype Tactical Personnel Recovery Mission Simulator (TPRMS) was inaugurated in November 2021 at Italian Air Base Poggio Renatico. The new Virtual Reality-based simulator, which allows Personnel Recovery teams to collectively rehearse tactics, techniques and procedures in a risk-free environment, marks a significant achievement as no such capability currently exists within Europe.

The PDF version of the 2021 Annual Report can be downloaded here.

Senior management and staff of EDA and the European Commission’s Directorate General Defence Industry and Space (DEFIS) met on 18 March for a day-long work retreat designed to bring the respective teams together, enhance mutual knowledge and understanding about the respective priorities, objectives and ways of working, to foster cooperation on a growing number of European defence topics relevant to both organisations, and to identify additional opportunities for improved interaction in the future.

The meeting on the initiative of DG DEFIS Director General Timo Pesonen and EDA Chief Executive Jiří Šedivý, was the first informal get-together of this kind between select staff of the Agency and DG DEFIS. The retreat took place in a positive and constructive atmosphere and was hailed by both sides as particularly timely given the tense security and defence situation in Europe following Russia’s war against Ukraine, and the various ongoing EU defence activities such as the European Commission’s recent Defence Package, the adoption of the EU Strategic Compass, and the Commission/EDA taskings stemming from the recent informal meeting of heads of state or government in Versailles.

The discussions during the day were structured in two main parts. The morning session was devoted to capability development (with a special focus on how to make best use of EDA’s activities and tools in support of the European Defence Fund managed by DG DEFIS) and defence innovation, especially on how to develop synergies between EDA’s activities and European Commission policies and initiatives in this domain. In the afternoon, several breakout groups composed by specialists from both sides discussed how to improve cooperation on topics such as EDA support to EDF (from upstream to downstream), EDF project management, defence innovation (including on how to shape the partnership with the Commission to ensure synergies between the soon to be established Hub for Defence innovation within the Agency and initiatives announced by the European Commission under the EU Defence Innovation Scheme) as well as the prospect of promoting and supporting joint defence procurement among EU Member States.

It was agreed by both EDA CE Jiří Šedivý and DEFIS DG Timo Pesonen that such informal consultations should be held again in the future.

Americas

The United States aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk headed to a scrapyard in Texas and too large to slip through the Panama Canal, reports MercoPress. The ship must sail around South America. In her 16,000-mile trip this weekend the impressive vessel “rested” for a few hours in Punta Arenas, extreme south of Chile as she was crossing the Magellan Strait towed by a couple of tugs.

Jane’s reported, that the Brazilian Navy is in the process of receiving its seventh and final modernised Skyhawk fighter jet. The acceptance of the AF-1B jet, tail number N-1004, was initiated on March 7 and is expected to take three to four weeks. Five AF-1 single-seat and two AF-1A twin-seat aircraft from Squadron Falcão based at the Naval Air Base of São Pedro da Aldeia were modernised to the AF-1B and AF-1C standard, respectively, since 2015. One AF-1B crashed in July 2016.

Middle East & Africa

Pakistan Navy’s Agosta 90B Class Submarine PNS/M HAMZA (S-139), modernized by Turkish firm STM managed to hit and sink a decommissioned frigate with a single torpedo shot. The trial was conducted during the SEASPARK-2022 Tactical Exercise, which was held biennially by the Pakistan Naval Forces Command. PNS/M HAMZA (S-139) destroyed a TARIQ class ship (Type 21 frigate) decommissioned with a DM-2A4 torpedo shot.

Lockheed Martin won a $16.6 million contract modification, which adds scope to provide for the development, integration, and testing of the Israel unique software data load in support of integration of Technology Refresh 3 (TR3) onto the F-35 Lot 15 Israel production aircraft. The integration efforts will include reverification of a select subset of the 3F+ software capability captured in the Israel System Development and Demonstration TR-3 reverification systems requirements document, airworthiness related flight testing of 3F+ software on TR-3 enabled aircraft, and weapons certification updates for use with TR-3 aircraft. Work will take place in Texas, California, Missouri, Arizona, Florida and Israel. Expected completion date is in March 2024.

 

Europe

The US State Department gave the green light for a potential Foreign Military Sale to the government of the United Kingdom of Ballistic Missile Defense Radar (BMDR) and Command and Control Battle Management and Communications (C2BMC) and related equipment for an estimated cost of $700 million. The government of the United Kingdom (UK) had requested to buy one (1) Ballistic Missile Defense Radar (BMDR); and two (2) Command and Control Battle Management and Communications (C2BMC) user nodes (with network capability required to connect to the C2BMC System to support radar operations).  Also included are design and construction of a combined radar-equipment shelter;  encryption devices, secure communication equipment, and other required COMSEC equipment to support radar operations; spare and repair parts, support and testing equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, US Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistical and program support.

According to the website “Soldat und Technik”, German small arms manufacture Heckler & Koch recently received a number of orders from the Baltic States. The Latvian Army ordered additional HK417 sniper rifles worth 3,433,878 euros. Latvia already uses the HK417 in a semi-automatic version as a sniper rifle, equipped with a Schmidt & Bender ZF 3-20 x 50 PMII.

Asia-Pacific

Pakistan showcased its latest defense equipment at its annual Pakistan Day Parade on Wednesday. This highlighted ongoing efforts to maintain a credible conventional deterrent against India. One notable element of the parade including aerial displays, which this year began with an F-16C Block 52 escorted by a pair of newly inducted Chinese J-10C Firebird fighters.

Today’s Video

WATCH: Brazilian Navy A 4 Skyhawks

Americas

The US Space Force wants to send a satellite to the moon in order to help detect, track and identify artificial objects operating there. A draft Request for Proposals was published recently for the spacecraft, called the Cislunar Highway Patrol System (CHPS) satellite. The satellite will expand the Space Force’s space domain awareness by one thousand times. The Air Force Research Laboratory’s (AFRL) Space Vehicles Directorate will be in charge of developing CHPS.

The Defense Department (DoD) is ending a study on how to streamline and better protect its vast array of often incompatible ground terminals for satellite communications to introduce some changes next year, the DoD’s SATCOM chief was quoted by Breaking Defense.

Middle East & Africa

Lockheed Martin and IAI partnered up to jointly promote a Ground Based Air Defense (GBAD) system, which is centered around the Lockheed Martin United Kingdom SkyKeeper and the BARAK MX system. As part of the partnership, Lockheed Martin and IAI will promote their technological and manufacturing expertise in air defense solutions that protect military forces and high value assets from missile threats around the world.

Europe

Thales has demonstrated its anti-drone system, Horus Shield, to the Spanish Army a few weeks ago at the airfield of the Segovia town of Marugán. The demonstration was part of the Spanish Army’s Fuerza 2035/BRIEX 2035 initiative and was coordinated and supervised by the Spanish Army’s Head of Information Systems, Telecommunications and Technical Assistance (JCISAT).

The US State Department approved the sale of up to eight MH-60R multi-mission helicopters to Spain in a deal potentially worth $950 million. The deal would also include a range of weapons and systems — Hellfire air-to-surface missiles, Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) II guidance sections, communications equipment, Airborne Low Frequency Sonars, sonobuoys and more — to enable surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare and electronic warfare by these ship-based helicopters.

Asia-Pacific

South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) launched a new 2,800-ton frigate with enhanced anti-submarine capabilities. Launching ceremony for the Chuncheon took place at the shipyard of Hyundai Heavy Industries Co. in Ulsan, some 410 km southeast of Seoul, according to the state arms procurement agency.

Today’s Video

WATCH: HUNTER C-UAS in SPAIN

Americas

Foster Miller won a $10.7 million contract modification to exercise Option Year One for production, engineering support and post production support of the MK 2 Man Transportable Robotic System (MTRS) series systems and Talon systems. The services under this contract cover the production of systems, depot level repair parts, initial spares kits, consumables, repair parts and approved accessories. Engineering support services such as configuration management, engineering enhancements, reviews, reporting and shipping are also included. The MTRS MK2 provides a man-transportable capability to remotely perform reconnaissance. Estimated completion will be by March 2026.

Boeing won a $95 million contract modification, which increases the contract ceiling to provide depot level maintenance and modification efforts support for F/A-18 E/F and EA-18G aircraft inspections, modifications, and repairs, as well as F/A-18 E/F and EA-18G inner wing panel modifications and repairs. Work will take place in Florida, California, Missouri, Washington and California. Estimated completion will be by December 2022.

Middle East & Africa

It has been disclosed that Uganda has chosen India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) to provide maintenance and technical support for its fleet of five Su-30 fighters. A Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Uganda Air Force chief Lt. Gen. Charles Lutaaya at the Indian High Commission in Kampala on March 4.

Europe

Hungarian Defense Ministry Undersecretary Gaspar Maroth said that 40 units of Turkish-built ‘Gidran’ tactical wheeled armored vehicles were delivered to the country’s Armed Forces. Gidran is the name given to Turkish company Nurol Makina’s Ejder Yalç?n 4×4 Mine Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles, which are being produced under licenses.

Hanwha Defense partnered with Lockheed Martin UK bidding on a key British Army artillery program. The South Korean defense contractor announced March 21 that Lockheed had become the latest industry member to join Team Thunder, the group bidding to secure a $1 billion) deal to supply 155mm self-propelled howitzers to the Army.

Asia-Pacific

Boeing subsidiary Insitu Pacific has been selected by Australia’s Department of Defence to supply the Australian Army with 24 Integrator unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) under an A$650 million investment programme aimed at addressing LAND 129 Phase 3 project requirements. According to the DoD, the initial contract period with Insitu Pacific – which includes deliver and support of the UASs as well as associated ground systems and prime systems integrator services – will be worth A$307 million. Production has already commenced, with delivery expected between 2023 and 2024.

Today’s Video

WATCH: Turkey deploys Gidran armored vehicles in Hungary

Americas

Northrop Grumman won a $17.3 million deal for depot level repair.  This follow-on contract includes: maintenance, modifications, repairs, alteration, upgrades of systems and spares for the AN/AQS-24 Sonar Detecting Set (all variants), Common Post Mission Analysis and Intermediate Level Test Equipment to support the Navy for the currently deployed airborne mine countermeasures legacy systems. The AQS-24A is a helicopter towed airborne Sonar mine countermeasure detection system equipped with a side scan sonar to detect and classify underwater mines. Work will take place in Maryland. Expected completion is in October 2026.

The UH-60V variant has been inducted into service with the 106th Aviation Regiment at the Illinois Army National Guard. Around 60 pilots were trained to operate the V variant and they did that by first undergoing six weeks of training on the UH-60M before spending another two weeks for a training support plan to be qualified.

Middle East & Africa

Israeli Steadicopter and Smart Shooter have unveiled the Golden Eagle – an unmanned helicopter with precise hit capabilities. Based on the Black Eagle 50E platform, the Golden Eagle incorporates AI-based technology and Smart Shooter’s SMASH Dragon system. The AI-based technology enables superior situational awareness and autonomous multi-target classification and tracking. The SMASH Dragon, a remotely-operated robotic weaponry payload, locks on the target, tracks it and ensures precise target hit.

UAE Minister of State for Defense Affairs, Mohammed Ahmed Al Bowardi, visited South Korea and the UAE has expressed interest in KAI’s T-50. The UAE had recently announced its decision to buy the L-15 advanced jet trainer from China.

Europe

Defense News reports that according to Defense Minister Jana Ernochová, the Czech Republic plans to buy more UH-1Y Venom and AH-1Z Viper helicopters for the military because Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has shown that the country’s current fleet is “insufficient.” “At the Ministry of Defence, we have all the prerequisites to catch up as soon as possible in terms of defence spending,” ernochová was cited as saying in a statement released by the ministry. The minister was alluding to Prague’s ambitions to increase military spending to 2% of GDP in order to meet its NATO obligation.

Asia-Pacific

Australia will designate the Boeing Loyal Wingman unmanned aircraft as the MQ-28A Ghost Bat, Defense Minister Peter Dutton announced. “The introduction of the new popular name is a rare and special moment in aviation history for our RAAF partners and industry team of over 35 Australian suppliers,” said Glen Ferguson, director Airpower Teaming System Australia and International.

Today’s Video

WATCH: UH-60 Black Hawk: The Front Line Utility Helicopter