Daily briefing
November 2, 2026
Executive summary
Drones and industry co-led today's 54-item feed with 15 stories each, followed by naval with nine and air with seven, while Europe accounted for 24 items including the Russia and Türkiye threads, against 14 for North America and 13 for the Indo-Pacific. The largest commitments were naval and strategic, as India's Ministry of Defence signed Rs 53,866.50 crore (about $6.5 billion) in contracts for eight Next Generation Corvettes split between Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers and Goa Shipyard, the US Air Force gave Raytheon a sole-source IDIQ with an $8 billion ceiling for nuclear command, control and communications terminals with only $800,000 obligated at award, and Safran was selected for navigation on France's third-generation SSBNs, the M51.4 missile and fifth-tranche Rafales while investing €120 million to triple HRG gyroscope output to 30,000 units a year by 2032. Drone mass production was the connective thread, as the Office of Strategic Capital extended a conditional commitment of up to $450 million to Neros toward one million drones a year by 2028, Quantum Systems set a second-quarter 2027 completion for 20,000 German-funded SPYS interceptors built inside Ukraine, Oshkosh Defense moved to industrialise Grid Aero's Lifter cargo aircraft, and Taiwan's navy budgeted NT$52.78 billion for 280 VTOL drones and 32 Albatross II aircraft. Counter-drone and directed-energy work ran in parallel, with Leonardo DRS joining production of AeroVironment's 30 kW LOCUST X3 for the Army's Enduring-High Energy Laser, MBDA Deutschland contracted by BAAINBw for an airborne laser demonstrator and Ericsson unveiling 5G-based drone detection, while uncrewed maritime systems multiplied through Australia's disclosure of mine, ALTIUS and logistics payloads for Ghost Shark, Saab's optionally crewed CB90 CX, Naval Group's armed SEAQUEST-S and Türkiye's 41-system TURNAs-2026 trials. Signals to watch include the Special Competitive Studies Project's finding that antimony, gallium, germanium or tungsten appear in more than 28,000 components across about 1,400 US weapon systems, the Space Force's November 2 request for information on a Cislunar Space System of up to five spacecraft, Japan's fighter scramble against two Chinese WZ-7 drone flights through the Okinawa–Miyako corridor the same day, the planned December first flight of South Korea's LOWUS collaborative combat aircraft, and further naval product introductions around Euronaval 2026.
◆ Articles covered
- AirDefence Industry EuropeFrance’s DGA receives Rafale aircraft for future F5 radar and weapons testing
France's DGA has delivered Rafale B374 to its flight-test centre as the first dedicated Rafale testbed for future F5 equipment and weapons trials. Delivered in the F4.1 configuration, the aircraft will initially receive reversible instrumentation before Dassault Aviation begins a major modification in the second quarter of 2027. It is expected to return to the test fleet in 2028 with permanent instrumentation and a dedicated test version of its mission computer. This configuration will support further F4 development and integration of future F5 sensors, including the RBE2 XG radar.
- DronesDefense NewsAustralia unveils secretive Ghost Shark underwater drone payloads
Australia has disclosed three payloads for Anduril's Ghost Shark autonomous underwater vehicle: naval mines, ALTIUS-series aerial drones (the precise variant has not been officially identified) and logistics caches. Revealed at Anduril's Sydney factory on October 19, the configurations include capacity for 12 mines and the release of ALTIUS swarms for reconnaissance or strike missions. Canberra is investing A$1.7 billion in a fleet described as dozens of vehicles, with the first handed over to the Royal Australian Navy earlier in 2026. The modular payload approach supports covert supply delivery and sea-denial missions, while additional undersea effectors remain under development.
- IndustryDefense DailyRTX Awarded $8 Billion Strategic Communications Terminal Contract
The US Air Force has awarded Raytheon, an RTX business, an indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity contract with an $8 billion ceiling for strategic communications terminal work. The scope includes terminal development and modernisation, production restart services and technical studies supporting the Air Force Nuclear Weapons Center's nuclear command, control and communications responsibilities. The sole-source award initially obligates $800,000 in fiscal 2026 research and development funding, with work in Massachusetts and Florida scheduled through October 12, 2036. The headline value is a maximum ordering ceiling, rather than an $8 billion expenditure committed at award.
- IndustryDefence Industry EuropeU.S. Navy selects Thales subsidiary for $53.9 million remote mine-hunting systems contract
The US Navy has awarded Advanced Acoustic Concepts, Thales' US subsidiary, a $53.9 million contract to produce two remote mine-hunting modules and provide engineering support. The systems allow naval personnel to detect, locate and classify underwater mines while remaining at a distance from the hazardous area. Additional procurement options could increase the agreement's cumulative value to approximately $196.2 million if exercised. The award covers mine-hunting equipment and associated engineering rather than complete new ships, supporting the navy's use of remotely operated systems to perform mine-countermeasures tasks without placing crews directly inside minefields.
- Dronesaviationweek.comSouth Korea Advances LOWUS Collaborative Combat Aircraft
Korean Air Aerospace Division has delivered two Low Observable Wingman UAV System prototypes to South Korea's Agency for Defense Development for ground testing. The LOWUS collaborative combat aircraft programme is preparing for a first flight in December 2026 and is intended to support operations alongside crewed combat aircraft. The design incorporates an active electronically scanned array radar and electro-optical/infrared sensors, with potential roles including reconnaissance, electronic warfare, decoy operations and strike. The handover advances prototype evaluation and flight preparation, rather than marking operational fielding or the start of a production fleet.
- IndustryJanesGreece signs for Millennium tanker-transport aircraft
Greece has signed for three Embraer KC-390 Millennium tanker-transport aircraft, with options for three more, through a government-to-government agreement with Portugal announced on November 2. The Hellenic Air Force is scheduled to receive its first aircraft in 2027, adding airlift and aerial-refuelling capacity as its ageing Hercules fleet requires replacement. The Millennium carries up to 26 tonnes and supports cargo and troop transport, medical evacuation, airdrops and operations from unpaved runways. Greece will also participate in European training, logistics and support arrangements associated with other operators of the type.
- DronesDefense WarRoomUS Army Flight-Tests 3D-Printed Heavy Fuel Rotary Engine on Hybrid-Electric VICTOR Drone
The US Army Research Laboratory has flight-demonstrated a 3D-printed heavy-fuel rotary engine in a series-hybrid propulsion system aboard the Group 3 VICTOR drone. The air-cooled engine drives a 400-volt motor-generator, supplying electrical propulsion designed to support vertical takeoff and landing without requiring a liquid-cooling circuit. Developed with industry partners including Griffon Aerospace, the aircraft demonstrated flight near Huntsville, Alabama, following research into fuel atomisation, vaporisation and sealing. The laboratory will make VICTOR and its associated PULSAR multi-aircraft concept available to military partners for further experimentation and development.
- IndustryDefense WarRoomLeonardo DRS Selected by AV to Power and Cool the US Army's First Production Anti-Drone Laser
AeroVironment has selected Leonardo DRS to provide integration, electrical-power management and thermal-management expertise for the US Army's Enduring-High Energy Laser production programme. The subcontract supports production of AV's 30-kilowatt LOCUST X3, a counter-drone laser designed for vehicle integration, including the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, or palletised deployment. The Army awarded AV the E-HEL production agreement in September 2026, moving the capability beyond prototype development. DRS will apply experience gained during earlier mobile directed-energy integration work and government live-fire evaluations conducted in 2024 and 2025 to the production effort.
- InstitutionalDefense DailyDoD Taking Equity Stake In Drone Manufacturer Neros With Planned $450 Million Loan
Neros has signed a conditional commitment for an Office of Strategic Capital loan of up to $450 million to expand US drone and component manufacturing. The company will contribute $165 million in equity, taking the planned project to $615 million and supporting vertically integrated production in Torrance, California. The expansion covers aircraft and critical components such as motors, radios, flight electronics, sensors and batteries, reducing dependence on imported supply chains. Neros targets annual output of one million drones by 2028, while the financing remains conditional rather than a completed loan disbursement.
- NavalThe War ZoneNew CB90 CX Is Bigger, Optionally Crewed Evolution Of Saab’s Proven Combat Boat
Saab has unveiled the CB90 Capability X, a larger, optionally crewed combat boat offered in reconnaissance, anti-ship warfare and short-range air-defence configurations. The 18-metre craft uses Saab's Autonomous Ocean Core, with the surveillance version carrying a Giraffe 1X radar and the air-defence configuration incorporating an anti-aircraft cannon. Two 1,100-horsepower engines drive waterjets for a fully loaded speed exceeding 40 knots, while the enlarged hull increases payload capacity over earlier variants. Sweden is the launch customer, with production underway and the first vessel undergoing acceptance trials before delivery alongside the existing CB90 family.
- NavalDefense WarRoomUS Navy Receives 1,000th ESSM Block 2 Naval Air Defense Missile as Deliveries Double in 16 Months
The US Navy's NATO SeaSparrow programme has accepted the 1,000th ESSM Block 2 missile produced for the 12-nation consortium, rather than solely for American inventories. The milestone was marked on October 28 at Raytheon's Camden, Arkansas, facility, following the 500th delivery in June 2025. Block 2 combines active and semi-active radar guidance to engage aircraft and anti-ship missiles, reducing dependence on a ship's radar illumination during terminal interception. Cumulative deliveries therefore doubled in roughly 16 months, reflecting increased output for the participating navies without disclosing how the missiles were allocated among them.
- IndustryArmy RecognitionNetherlands orders Saab's Skeldar V-200 helicopter drones to strengthen anti-submarine warfare in North Sea
The Netherlands has reportedly awarded UMS Skeldar Sweden AB a contract for an uncrewed helicopter system intended to strengthen anti-submarine surveillance in the North Sea. The acquisition involves the Skeldar V-200, a rotary-wing drone capable of carrying mission equipment from ships or shore sites, and follows existing Dutch-Belgian cooperation on mine-countermeasures aviation. The reported ASW award does not disclose aircraft numbers, contract value, delivery dates or the selected sensor package. Its stated purpose is to improve maritime awareness around vulnerable offshore energy installations and subsea infrastructure, rather than establish a publicly specified operational configuration.
- Dronesasianmilitaryreview.comTaiwan plans UAV acquisitions to boost maritime domain awareness
Taiwan's navy plans to spend NT$52.78 billion on two UAV programmes to expand maritime surveillance and targeting, according to its latest defence-budget details. The proposed fleet comprises 280 vertical-takeoff drones, associated with Shield AI's V-BAT, and 32 domestically developed Albatross II aircraft, with procurement funding spread across 2026–2029. The VTOL package includes 140 control systems and 82 transport vehicles, while the Albatross programme covers eight control stations and 48 vehicles. These aircraft are intended to support shipboard and coastal reconnaissance, target identification and cueing for Taiwan's maritime strike forces.
- CyberDefense OneThe Pentagon’s IT agency wants to bridge network gaps in the Pacific
The Defense Information Systems Agency is working to close coalition-network gaps in the Pacific as US Indo-Pacific Command moves toward faster data sharing with partners. A recently deployed Pacific mission partner network consolidates previously separate national connections, with exercises showing improved coordination and fewer systems for personnel to switch between. Remaining work includes common identity management, data standards and zero-trust security as DISA transitions toward a data-centric environment. The objective is a flexible information-sharing architecture that can accommodate partners with differing technical capabilities and coalition arrangements, rather than relying on rigid networks built separately for each country.
- Dronesbairdmaritime.comVESSEL REVIEW | Sea Archer – Surveillance and logistics USV capable of long-endurance loitering
Leidos Australia has completed harbour and open-ocean trials of Sea Archer, an Australian-built unmanned surface vessel for surveillance, logistics and electronic-warfare missions. The 11.2-metre aluminium craft uses two 300-horsepower diesel outboards and carries up to 900 kg in an enclosed modular payload bay, with a stated range of 1,500 nautical miles. Trials followed harbour acceptance in Tasmania and subsequent operations from Darwin, while Leidos reports loitering endurance of up to 23 days. The programme remains company-funded without an Australian Defence Force contract, and proposed missile or loitering-munition configurations have not yet provided a demonstrated strike capability.
- Navalbairdmaritime.comVESSEL REVIEW | ASC 1 – Beaching logistics craft prototype for US Marine Corps
The US Marine Corps Warfighting Laboratory has technically accepted ASC 1, the first Birdon-designed Ancillary Surface Craft prototype for landing personnel, equipment and fuel on unimproved shores. The approximately 150-foot roll-on/roll-off vessel can carry 46 tons of cargo and 40 combat-loaded Marines, with forward-looking sonar supporting navigation in shallow, unsurveyed waters. Acceptance validated operation in Sea State 5, while the design provides for survival in Sea State 7 and independent ocean transits. The prototype now supports technical assessments and tactical experimentation for dispersed littoral logistics, complementing the larger Medium Landing Ship concept.
- LandDefence BlogRussia’s new Filin cruise missile caught on camera
A newly circulated photograph shows Russia's Filin cruise missile on a ground launcher with a solid-fuel booster mounted beneath its fuselage. The booster provides launch acceleration before separating as the missile's R500 turbojet sustains flight, revealing a configuration not previously shown clearly. Ukraine's military intelligence agency attributes the weapon to NPO Molniya and describes a composite airframe approximately 3.5 metres long with a three-metre wingspan and alternative 50 kg or 100 kg warheads. Ukrainian authorities report Russian use since late summer 2026, while the photograph does not establish the location or date of the launch arrangement.
- LandArmy RecognitionFinland Prepares for Close-Range Armoured Warfare with German RGW 110 Heavy Anti-Tank Weapons
Finland's defence minister has authorised procurement of the RGW110 heavy disposable anti-tank weapon from Germany's Dynamit Nobel Defence in a package worth approximately €84.5 million excluding VAT. The acquisition includes the weapon system, training equipment and operator instruction, with deliveries and training scheduled to begin in 2027. Intended for soldiers engaging armoured vehicles at short range, the system will replace the Finnish Army's ageing APILAS heavy anti-tank weapons and complement other layers of anti-armour fire. The announcement establishes procurement authorisation and its scope without specifying the number of launchers to be purchased.
- IndustryArmy RecognitionPoland receives more M1110 Joint Assault Bridges from U.S. to support 366 Abrams tanks across battlefield obstacles
Poland's Armament Agency announced on October 29 that another shipment of M1110 Joint Assault Bridge vehicles had arrived to support its Abrams-equipped formations. The delivery forms part of a 25-vehicle acquisition associated with 250 M1A2 SEPv3 and 116 M1A1 FEP tanks, following the first bridge-layer arrivals in July. Based on an Abrams chassis, the M1110 deploys a Heavy Assault Scissor Bridge across gaps up to 18.3 metres wide, with MLC 115 normal-load classification. The latest shipment's quantity was not disclosed, and the vehicles will primarily support units of the 18th Mechanized Division.
- IndustryDefence Industry EuropeLithuania receives first Thales GM200 MM/C multifunction radar for its national division
Lithuania has received its first Thales GM200 MM/C multifunction radar under a cooperation programme with the Netherlands to equip the country's developing national division. The system's principal role is locating hostile indirect-fire weapons, while suitable configurations can also support air surveillance, air-defence integration and detection of small drones. The acquisition includes technical support and continued development, with Lithuanian company ELSIS TS participating as a Thales subcontractor in systems integration. Lithuania and the Netherlands plan further cooperation on maintenance and upgrades to sustain readiness and adapt the radar capability to changing operational requirements.
- DronesDefence BlogNorth Defence readies new UGV for NATO trials in Switzerland
North Defence Group is preparing its new unmanned ground vehicle for NATO trials in Switzerland after unveiling the platform at its Elland factory on October 9. The compact vehicle is designed to carry more than 1,000 kg and is offered with electric, diesel or hybrid propulsion, alongside autonomous following and waypoint navigation. Its modular load area can accommodate logistics equipment, a surveillance mast, weapon stations or the Slinger counter-drone system, while an armoured compartment supports protected casualty evacuation. The manufacturer expects a full market launch during the winter, following the planned evaluation programme.
- DronesJanesQuantum plans to deliver SPYS interceptor UAV package for Ukraine by second quarter of 2027
Quantum Systems expects to complete deliveries of its German-funded SPYS interceptor-drone package for Ukraine by the second quarter of 2027, the company said on October 28. Berlin announced financing for 20,000 interceptors within its winter military-aid package, although Quantum has not disclosed individual delivery-batch quantities. Production is taking place through Quantum WIY Industries in Ukraine, with capacity of several thousand interceptors monthly and further expansion planned as demand grows. The drones are intended to counter Russian attack UAVs and integrate with Quantum's Mosaic UXS software, alongside deliveries already underway under a separate Ukrainian National Guard contract.
- AirJanesKazakhstan receives second and final A400M airlifter
Kazakhstan has received its second Airbus A400M Atlas military transport aircraft, completing the two-aircraft acquisition for its air-defence forces. The aircraft arrived in Almaty from Spain, expanding capacity to move troops, heavy equipment and humanitarian cargo over long distances while retaining access to short, unprepared runways. Kazakh flight crews and engineering personnel completed theoretical and practical training at Airbus' Seville training centre to prepare for operation and maintenance of the aircraft. The fleet, whose first A400M arrived in December 2024, will also support evacuations, emergency response and deployment of national peacekeeping contingents.
- SpaceDefence BlogHydrosat to build sovereign thermal satellites in Europe for NATO
Hydrosat has announced Nyktòs, a high-resolution mid-wave infrared satellite programme intended to provide taskable day-and-night tactical imagery for NATO members and allied governments. Development will be supported by additional European facilities and regional suppliers, extending the company's manufacturing and technology base for sovereign surveillance requirements. Nyktòs is designed to complement the Osiris wide-area thermal constellation, using broad-area detections to cue closer observation of selected locations. Osiris' first two satellites are planned for launch in 2027, while Hydrosat has not announced Nyktòs customers, satellite numbers, image resolution, launch dates or programme cost.
- DronesNaval NewsVideo: Naval Group Demonstrates Armed SEAQUEST-S USV
Naval Group subsidiary Sirehna has demonstrated its armed SEAQUEST-S unmanned surface vessel during the Euronaval 2026 press tour, showing a compact platform intended for deployment from frigates. The 9.3-metre composite craft uses a 475-horsepower engine and waterjet for speeds up to 35 knots, with a baseline range of 220 nautical miles. Its retractable sensor mast, modular forward payload bay and STEERIS mission-system integration support surveillance, target tracking and mission-specific weapons or sensors. The design uses existing shipboard launch-and-recovery arrangements and supports remote or autonomous operation, with line-of-sight and satellite communications available for control and data exchange.
- NavalDefense WarRoomUS Navy’s $4.47B Pearl Harbor Submarine Dry Dock Takes Shape as Norfolk Opens $134M Refueling Complex
The US Navy is advancing submarine-maintenance infrastructure at Pearl Harbor and Norfolk, including a $4.47 billion dry-dock project in Hawaii and Norfolk's completed $134 million refuelling complex. Pearl Harbor's new dock is intended to accommodate Virginia-class submarines that cannot be supported by the existing Dry Dock 3, with completion expected in March 2029. Norfolk marked completion of its Dry Dock 4 complex on October 29, adding reactor-servicing workspaces, radiological storage and training capacity. Both projects fall under the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program, supporting nuclear-submarine maintenance, defuelling and inactivation work across the public shipyards.
- AirDefence Industry EuropeF-35 Joint Program Office says new software enables transition to upgraded fleet maintenance system
The F-35 programme is introducing new software to advance the transition from the Autonomic Logistics Information System to the Operational Data Integrated Network. Initial operational ODIN software was installed at Nellis Air Force Base in late August 2026, following the fielding of upgraded computer hardware across the fleet. ODIN combines an integrated data environment and maintenance applications intended to reduce administrative workload, improve processing and support faster software updates. The change modernises the aircraft's ground-based sustainment infrastructure, including maintenance and logistics information, with capabilities being introduced progressively as the wider transition continues.
- Dronesbairdmaritime.comAustralian Border Force deploys aerial drones for anti-illegal fishing patrols
The Australian Border Force has deployed remotely piloted aircraft to Operation Broadstaff to strengthen surveillance against illegal foreign fishing in northern Queensland and the Torres Strait. Day-and-night optical and sensor feeds provide real-time views of difficult coastal terrain, complementing patrol vessels, crewed aircraft, land patrols and intelligence from partner agencies and local communities. The deployment extends an Australian northern-border rollout that already supports Operations Lunar and Leedstrum in the Northern Territory and Western Australia. Broadstaff began in February 2026, covering a region with more than 270 islands and reefs across approximately 48,000 square kilometres.
- DronesJanesSpecial Report: Ukrainian defence manufacturers showcase UAVs to UK
Twelve Ukrainian drone manufacturers demonstrated their systems to British industry, investors and military officials at Larkhill Garrison on Salisbury Plain on October 30. The inaugural Ukraine Drone Demonstration Day was supported by the UK Ministry of Defence's National Armaments Director Group and combined live demonstrations with discussions on investment, co-development and production partnerships. Participants included Airlogix, Ukrspecsystems, Vyriy Industries and UForce, presenting technologies shaped by operational experience in Ukraine. The event sought to connect Ukrainian developers with UK industrial capacity and defence users, building cooperation opportunities without itself constituting a procurement award.
- DronesDefence Industry EuropeEricsson introduces 5G drone detection system for defense and critical infrastructure protection
Ericsson has introduced an Integrated Sensing and Communication system that uses sensing-capable 5G radios, edge computing and signal processing to detect and track drones. The technology analyses reflected radio signals, allowing it to follow aerial objects that are not connected to the mobile network and complement dedicated surveillance sensors. Demonstrations with AT&T in Texas and Erillisverkot in Helsinki have tested drone detection and tracking across different network configurations. Small-scale sensing-only commercial pilots are planned for selected customers in 2027, followed by wider deployments from 2028, with integrated communications capabilities to evolve toward 6G.
- DronesDefence BlogTürkiye tests unmanned naval capabilities in TURNAs-2026
Türkiye evaluated the integration of unmanned aerial, surface, underwater and ground systems with crewed naval platforms during TURNAs-2026, held from October 19–27 around Antalya and the Eastern Mediterranean. Seventeen defence companies contributed 41 systems, alongside at least 18 vessels, 11 aircraft and approximately 1,300 personnel. Trials covered autonomy, mine countermeasures, target engagement and communications, including a Pirana surface drone directed toward a target through a Bayraktar TB2 control link. Havelsan's Advent common-operating-picture software combined participating-platform data, while the navy will use the exercise findings to refine tactics, coordination procedures and operational concepts.
- DronesJanesChina’s WZ-7 High-Altitude Reconnaissance Drone Flights Near Okinawa Put Japan’s Air Defenses on High Alert
Japan scrambled fighters after detecting two Chinese WZ-7 reconnaissance-drone flights through the corridor between Okinawa and Miyako Island on November 2. The aircraft flew from the East China Sea into the Pacific, operated south of Japan's southwestern islands and returned toward the Chinese mainland along the same passage. Japanese authorities described separate morning-to-afternoon and afternoon activity, with aircraft from the Southwestern Air Defense Force responding to monitor the flights. The WZ-7 is a high-altitude, long-endurance surveillance platform, allowing reconnaissance over maritime areas beyond the immediate reach of shorter-range tactical drones.
- InstitutionalArmy RecognitionThese Are The U.S. Weapons Most At Risk In The Looming Rare Earths Supply Crisis
A Special Competitive Studies Project assessment identifies US weapon-production exposure to Chinese supplies of critical minerals, using Exiger data covering almost nine million parts and 3,000 weapon systems. More than 28,000 unique components across approximately 1,400 systems contain antimony, gallium, germanium or tungsten, materials used in electronics, optics and specialised hardware. Virginia-class submarines are among the platforms highlighted, with more than 300 component identifiers dependent on these four minerals, including 190 involving germanium. The findings concern manufacturing and sustainment vulnerabilities from constrained material availability, alongside bottlenecks in casting, forging and extrusion capacity.
- IndustryThe War ZoneFrench Navy turns to domestic shipbuilder for 16-vessel tug order
France's DGA has awarded Piriou a contract for four firm RP30NG harbour and coastal tugs, with options for 12 additional vessels and associated in-service support. The 26-metre design displaces 370 tonnes fully loaded and provides 30 tonnes of bollard pull for handling nuclear submarines and major surface combatants. The first four will be built at Concarneau, with arrivals at French naval bases expected from 2028. Adapted from Piriou's civilian tug range, the vessels will also support firefighting, pollution response and maritime-assistance missions up to 200 nautical miles offshore for several days.
- Navalbairdmaritime.comSpain’s Indra introduces next-generation Prisma-S naval radar
Indra has unveiled Prisma-S, a fully digital four-dimensional active electronically scanned array radar intended for the next generation of European and allied naval vessels. The multifunction sensor provides range, bearing, altitude and target-velocity information for simultaneous air and surface surveillance, trajectory tracking and long-range target designation. Indra says the architecture is designed for congested electromagnetic environments and resistance to hostile countermeasures, with radar information supporting wider shipboard combat functions. Presented ahead of Euronaval 2026, Prisma-S is a new product introduction, with no ship-specific procurement or installation announced as part of the unveiling.
- LandDefence Industry EuropeProject Grayburn: UK SA80 replacement remains in concept
Britain's Project Grayburn to replace the SA80 rifle family remains in its concept phase, which is scheduled to finish in the second quarter of 2027. A November 2 parliamentary answer said requirements, scope and procurement approach are still being developed and remain subject to further approvals. Preliminary market engagement announced on October 23 will inform potential delivery models before decisions on the supplier, weapon and contractual structure are made. Earlier planning identifies UK manufacture as an intended priority, linking the future rifle acquisition to domestic supply chains, employment and possible exports.
- NavalArmy TechnologyNavantia UK opens new Belfast fabrication hall to build three Royal Fleet Auxiliary support ships
Navantia UK has opened the expanded Resurgent Hall at its Harland & Wolff Belfast yard to support construction of three Royal Fleet Auxiliary Fleet Solid Support ships. The facility adds 5,000 square metres of fabrication space with new cranes, robotic plasma cutting and a mechanised panel line. Belfast accounts for approximately £100 million of Navantia UK's £157 million investment across four British shipyards, supporting around 900 skilled jobs and apprenticeships locally. The ships will carry ammunition, provisions and other stores for deployed naval groups, with sections built at several yards before final integration in Belfast.
- SpaceDefence Industry EuropeU.S. Space Force Cislunar Space System Under Consideration
The US Space Force is seeking industry information on a possible Cislunar Space System comprising up to five spacecraft to seed a future distributed constellation beyond geosynchronous orbit. The concept covers spacecraft buses hosting government-provided payloads, launch services, ground control, system integration and operational support. An initial launch-ready capability is contemplated for late 2029, with initial operations by 2031, and the government is considering preliminary fixed-price design-study contracts. The November 2 request is market research rather than a satellite production award, intended to assess rapid, low-risk approaches to sustained operations between Earth and the Moon.
- NavalDefense DailySafran’s NGDS Decoy Launcher Spotted Aboard JMSDF Test Ship JS Asuka
Safran's New Generation Dagaie System decoy launcher has been spotted aboard JS Asuka, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's dedicated equipment-test ship. NGDS uses a stabilised launcher that rotates in azimuth and elevation to place countermeasures against anti-ship missiles, with configurations supporting radar, infrared and other decoy payloads. Safran has also qualified a variant for NATO-standard 130 mm ammunition, although the sighting alone does not establish Asuka's selected munition configuration. The installation concerns a research vessel used to evaluate naval equipment and does not by itself demonstrate a fleetwide procurement or operational deployment.
- AirDefense DailyHas the Pakistani military bought 30 Z-10ME attack helicopters from China?
An image circulated by a Chinese military blogger suggests Pakistan's Z-10ME attack-helicopter procurement covers 30 aircraft, but the quantity has not been officially confirmed. The post attributes the purchase to a July 11 contract between China National Aero-Technology Import and Export Corporation and Pakistan's Ministry of Defence Production, including associated products and services. Pakistan formally inducted the Chinese-built type in August 2025, establishing that deliveries have occurred without resolving the total order size. The Z-10ME is an export development of Changhe's attack helicopter, and the reported 30-aircraft figure remains a claim based on the circulated image.
- Airscmp.comRussia Upgrades Yak-130M with New Tactical Data-Sharing System for Integrated Combat Network Operations
Russia's Yak-130M combat trainer is receiving a KSS-130 communications suite designed to exchange tactical information with other aircraft and ground command posts in real time. The system adds digital data transmission to voice communications, supporting target designation, mission updates and coordination within a wider combat network. The upgrade forms part of a broader modernisation that also introduces improved navigation, radar, weapons and defensive equipment while preserving training continuity with the original Yak-130. Prototype testing is continuing, with Russian authorities planning initial customer deliveries in 2028 rather than announcing an operationally fielded fleet.
- DronesArmy RecognitionU.S. Marines Build Combat Readiness With New MADIS Counter-Drone Weapon System
US Marines from the 2nd and 3rd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalions have conducted live-fire training with the Marine Air Defense Integrated System at Twentynine Palms, California. Activity at Range 500 on October 21–22 included firing the system's 30 mm cannon and practising coordinated employment of sensors and weapons against aerial threats. MADIS distributes radar, electro-optical sensing, electronic warfare and kinetic effectors across two complementary Joint Light Tactical Vehicle configurations, with Stinger missiles and an M240B machine gun among its weapons. The training develops crew proficiency and combat readiness for mobile short-range air defence against drones and low-flying aircraft.
- IndustryJanesChess Dynamics secures sensor contract for Indonesian frigates
Chess Dynamics has secured an approximately £3 million contract from Indonesia's PT Len to supply SeaEagle electro-optical fire-control systems for two Bung Tomo-class frigates. The equipment will replace legacy sensors and integrate with the ships' 76 mm OTO Melara guns and upgraded Thales TACTICOS combat-management systems. Announced on October 28, the order follows an initial 2023 contract for the first ship and extends the planned upgrade across the entire three-vessel class. The work forms part of the Indonesian Navy's refurbishment of these light frigates, improving gun-control equipment while retaining the existing warships.
- AirNaval NewsRafale M Conducts Maiden Trials onboard Indian Aircraft Carrier INS Vikrant
A French Rafale M completed its first landing aboard India's aircraft carrier INS Vikrant on October 29, beginning shipboard integration trials ahead of Indian deliveries. The activity followed shore-based testing in Goa and supports the April 2025 agreement for 26 Dassault fighters, comprising 22 carrier-capable Rafale M aircraft and four land-based twin-seat Rafale DH trainers. Deliveries under the $7.5 billion procurement are scheduled to start in 2029. Integration work includes accommodating the fighter's non-folding wings on Vikrant's aircraft elevators, with detachable wingtip missile rails and shipboard modifications being examined.
- NavalDefense WarRoomChina Builds Type 071 LPD Amphibious Ships at a Second Shipyard in Guangzhou for the First Time
Satellite imagery shows two Type 071 amphibious transport docks under construction at COMEC's Longxue Island facilities in Guangzhou, expanding production beyond Hudong-Zhonghua in Shanghai. Imagery dated October 4 depicts adjacent hulls at advanced stages, matching the approximately 210-metre dimensions and characteristic configuration of the class. The roughly 22,000-tonne ships use a well deck and aviation facilities to move landing craft, troops, vehicles and helicopters. The Guangzhou construction adds a second production location for a design previously built exclusively at Hudong-Zhonghua, where additional Type 071 vessels are also being assembled.
- IndustryArmy TechnologyRheinmetall delivers first Caracal 4x4s to Germany and Netherlands
Rheinmetall handed over the first series-production Caracal vehicles to Germany and the Netherlands at its Ede production site on October 29. The air-assault 4x4 combines a Mercedes-Benz G-Class 464 chassis with an ACS Armoured Car Systems body and final integration by Rheinmetall Defence Nederland. The initial joint order covers 1,505 vehicles, comprising 1,001 for Germany and 504 for the Netherlands, within a larger framework agreement. The modular vehicles will support light and specialised forces, including Germany's Division Schnelle Kräfte and the Netherlands' integrated 11 Airmobile Brigade, with common equipment simplifying training and logistics.
- IndustryDefense DailyBWXT Has Strong Third Quarter Thanks to Janus and Other Contracts
BWX Technologies reported third-quarter 2026 revenue of $953 million and net earnings of $102 million, compared with $866.3 million and $82.2 million respectively a year earlier. Government Operations operating income increased to $122.6 million, supported by special-materials and advanced-nuclear growth despite lower naval-propulsion volume. The company highlighted nuclear-development opportunities including the Army's Janus programme at Fort Campbell, alongside other government and commercial contracts contributing to its pipeline. BWXT reaffirmed approximately $3.8 billion in full-year revenue guidance, while the results describe financial performance and programme progress rather than the operational deployment of a military microreactor.