Private Paramilitary Organization Enhances Ukrainian Tank Defense with Steel Screens Amid Ongoing Drone Threats

In a significant development for Ukraine’s military capabilities, the private paramilitary support organization, Steel Front, has commenced the integration of advanced 430-kilogram steel grid screens into Ukrainian Leopard main battle tanks. This innovative defense measure aims to protect these critical vehicles from the increasing threats posed by first-person view (FPV) unmanned aerial systems, commonly used by Russian forces for drone attacks since the onset of the invasion in 2022.

The FPV technology allows drone operators to use video-based piloting systems, typically worn on headgear, to maneuver drones for surveillance and direct attacks on military hardware. Recognizing the urgent need for enhanced protection, Steel Front’s initiative comes in response to the persistent risks to ground-based military platforms.

According to Steel Front, the grid screens, sourced from Ukrainian mining conglomerate Metinvest, represent a cost-effective solution, priced at $20,000—approximately 0.03% of the value of a Leopard tank. Remarkably, these screens are being provided for free to support the Ukrainian military’s operational missions.

The steel grid screens are not limited to the Leopard tanks; they are also being fitted to several other military vehicles currently in service, including Soviet-era T-64 and T-72 tanks, American M1 Abrams tanks, and Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles. Multiple repair bases are equipped with hundreds of these screens, enabling rapid integration into frontline vehicles—a process that requires about 10 to 12 personnel and takes approximately 12 hours.

Olexander Myronenko, Chief Operating Officer of Metinvest Group, emphasized that the primary objective of these screens is to enhance the survivability of military equipment without compromising its operational efficiency, crew safety, or maneuverability. “The survivability of the equipment increases by 30-40%. In real cases on the battlefield, vehicles equipped with our screens have allowed crews to survive attacks unharmed, facilitating their safe evacuation and subsequent recovery of the vehicles,” he stated.

Metinvest, led by Ukrainian businessman and Steel Front head Rinat Akhmetov, initiated the production of these steel screens in May as part of its ongoing support for the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Previous contributions from Metinvest include the development of decoy weapons designed to mislead Russian forces and distract them from attacking actual military assets.

In July 2024, Metinvest also unveiled a counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) kit compatible with Kyiv’s Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles, further enhancing Ukraine’s defensive capabilities. The company’s commitment to supporting frontline operations continued with the recent inauguration of an underground medical center assembled by Metinvest for military personnel engaged in the ongoing conflict.

As drone warfare continues to play a critical role in the Ukraine conflict, initiatives like the integration of these steel grid screens into armored vehicles represent a proactive approach to safeguarding military assets and personnel in the face of evolving battlefield threats.

Red Cat Holdings Secures $1 Million Contract with U.S. Army for Advanced Drone Solutions

In a significant development for military technology, the Defense Logistics Agency has awarded Red Cat Holdings a $1 million contract to supply its Edge 130 Blue unmanned aerial systems to the U.S. Army. These tricopters will be distributed to the Army’s Communications-Electronics Command (CECOM) where they are set to enhance warfighter capabilities in the areas of command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C5ISR).

Designed specifically for tactical and federal government operations, the Edge 130 Blue is tailored for long-range intelligence, reconnaissance, mapping, and inspection tasks. The drone boasts a lightweight build, weighing just 1.2 kilograms (2.6 pounds), with a wingspan of 1.3 meters (4.2 feet). It can be hand-launched quickly—under one minute—by a single operator, enabling flights that exceed 60 minutes in medium-autonomous mode.

With a top speed of 100 kilometers (62 miles) per hour and a service ceiling reaching 3,650 meters (11,975 feet), the Edge 130 Blue positions itself as a versatile solution for modern combat operations.

“We are excited to deepen our relationship with the U.S. Army and contribute to CECOM’s mission of providing C5ISR systems that empower full-spectrum combat operations at the point of need,” stated Red Cat CEO Jeff Thompson. “Our commitment to supporting the U.S. Army’s modernization strategy aligns with its transformation into a multi-domain force, where portable unmanned aerial systems like Edge 130 increasingly play a crucial role in intelligence, maneuver, and strike activities across varied battlefield formations.”

Earlier this year, Red Cat launched a new line of surveillance and strike drones, which are being offered at competitive prices compared to traditional air defense solutions. In 2023, the company also partnered with autonomy industry leader Athena to integrate advanced artificial intelligence and machine learning software into its Teal 2 military drone.

This contract marks a strategic enhancement of U.S. military capabilities, emphasizing the growing importance of unmanned aerial systems in contemporary warfare.

GE Aerospace’s LM2500 Gas Turbine Engine Chosen for Indian Navy’s Next Generation Missile Vessels

In a significant boost to India’s maritime capabilities, GE Aerospace has been selected to supply its renowned LM2500 gas turbine engine for the Indian Navy’s upcoming fleet of Next Generation Missile Vessels (NGMV). A total of six engine kits are set to be delivered for assembly and testing at Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Industrial and Marine Gas Turbine Division in Bangalore.

Amy Gowder, President and CEO of GE Aerospace Defense & Systems, expressed pride in this collaboration, stating, “The LM2500 gas turbine’s proven power and reliability make it the ideal choice for the NGMV mission. We are proud to continue our collaboration with HAL to deliver this critical technology for India’s maritime defense.”

India’s Cochin Shipyard Limited is spearheading the construction of the six next-generation vessels, with a project budget exceeding $1 billion. The delivery of these advanced warships is slated to commence in March 2027. Designed for maritime strike, anti-surface operations, and sea-denial roles, the vessels will play a crucial role in both local naval defense and the protection of offshore development areas. They will be equipped with a range of anti-surface weaponry, including eight anti-ship or land-attack missiles like the BrahMos, alongside features such as stealth capabilities and a top speed of 35 knots (65 kilometers/40 miles per hour).

The LM2500 gas turbine, first deployed in 1969 on the US Navy’s GTS Admiral W M Callaghan cargo ship, produces a robust 25,060 kilowatts of power and is currently utilized by 33 navies worldwide, including the US Navy. HAL has a rich history of assembling and testing LM2500 engines, having outfitted the Indian Navy’s three P17 (Shivalik class) and six P17A (Nilgiri class) frigates, as well as the aircraft carrier IAC-1 Vikrant.

D. Sunil, Chairman and Managing Director of HAL, emphasized the longstanding partnership with GE Aerospace, stating, “GE Aerospace has been our valued partner for several decades in marine applications and aerospace. With the addition of the NGMV program, our partnership will further strengthen to greater heights.”

The selection of GE Aerospace’s LM2500 engine marks a significant step toward enhancing India’s naval prowess as it prepares to bolster its defenses against emerging maritime threats.

UK Deploys Brigade to Estonia Amid Rising Global Threats

Brussels, Belgium – A British Army brigade is set to be stationed in Estonia, bolstered by advanced weaponry including the newly-acquired Challenger 3 main battle tank. The commitment was announced during a NATO Defence Ministers meeting last week, underscoring the United Kingdom’s dedication to fortifying NATO’s eastern flank in response to escalating global security challenges.

The UK’s 4th Brigade will be placed on high readiness in the UK, ready to deploy during times of crisis or conflict. This move complements London’s existing presence in Estonia, which has included a permanent armored battle group since 2017, integrated within the 1st Infantry Brigade of the Estonian Defence Forces.

Regular readiness exercises will be conducted to prepare the brigade for deployment, with significant exercises planned, such as "Hedgehog" set for 2025. British Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized the UK’s unwavering commitment to NATO, stating, "As global threats increase, we are boosting our support for Estonia, with thousands of troops ready to deploy rapidly to the Russian border.”

The deployment will see a variety of combat platforms assigned to the brigade, including the recently acquired Archer self-propelled howitzers, Boxer infantry vehicles, Ajax armored personnel carriers, and the advanced Challenger 3 tanks. The British Army recently received its first Archer from Sweden, while the Boxer and Ajax vehicles are anticipated to achieve initial operational capability by 2025, and the Challenger 3 expected to follow by 2027 with full operational capability by 2030.

Estonian Minister of Defence Hanno Pevkur noted the growing defense cooperation between Estonia and the UK, stating, “The roadmap we signed today stems from the NATO regional plans, highlighting the United Kingdom’s long-term commitment to reinforce Estonia.”

The Challenger 3 main battle tank represents a significant upgrade, featuring enhanced capabilities such as a 120mm L55A1 smoothbore gun, which offers improved accuracy over its predecessor, the Challenger 2’s rifled gun. Innovations in armor, the Trophy Active Protection System, and advanced communications further establish the Challenger 3’s role in modern warfare, though the exact number to be deployed in Estonia remains uncertain as the British Army prepares to phase out Challenger 2 models.

This strategic military cooperation is a crucial response to the changing security landscape in the region and underscores NATO’s collective defense assurance.

Australia Pledges 49 M1A1 Abrams Tanks to Ukraine in Show of Support Against Russian Aggression

CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand — In a significant reaffirmation of the importance of heavy armor in modern warfare, Australian defense officials have announced a commitment to provide Ukraine with 49 second-hand M1A1 AIM Abrams tanks. This decision, made on October 17, follows the recent arrival of new M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks from the United States, further emphasizing Australia’s focus on armored capabilities.

The Australian military never deployed its 59 M1A1 Abrams tanks in combat, but these vehicles are now set to play a critical role in Ukraine as they confront ongoing Russian hostilities. The M1A1 Abrams, equipped with a 120mm main gun and advanced armor and sensors, remains a potent force on the battlefield.

An Australian Department of Defence spokesperson stated, “There are no other current or emerging technologies – or combination of technologies – that can yet deliver the capability currently provided by a main battle tank.” Brigadier James Davis, the Australian Army’s director general of Future Land Warfare, highlighted the enduring relevance of traditional warfare skills, emphasizing the importance of training and tactics amidst modern battlefield threats.

The donation, valued at approximately A$245 million (US$164 million), aims to enhance Ukraine’s defense capabilities against Russian aggression, with Australian Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy stating, “These tanks will deliver more firepower and mobility to the Ukrainian armed forces.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed gratitude for Australia’s decision, affirming the significance of the tanks in the fight against Russian forces. American approval was necessary for the transfer, but Ukrainian crews are already accustomed to the Abrams platform following the U.S. commitment to provide 31 M1A1 SA Abrams earlier this year.

Australia will maintain a stockpile of ten M1A1 tanks for its future transition to the M1A2 model as part of its ongoing military modernization efforts. Under Project Land 907, the Australian Army will receive a comprehensive suite of armored vehicles, including 75 new M1A2 SEPv3 tanks.

This latest support reinforces Australia’s commitment to Ukraine, with total military assistance exceeding A$1.3 billion, including various armored vehicles and artillery systems. Amid increasing tensions in the region, the Australian military’s strategic focus on heavy armor reflects an acknowledgment of its critical role in contemporary and future conflicts.

Leidos Secures $331 Million Contract to Enhance US Army’s Global Unified Network

Leidos, a leading defense technology company, has been awarded a substantial $331 million contract aimed at optimizing the US Army’s Global Unified Network (AGUN). This crucial network serves as the Army’s primary standard for transmitting classified and unclassified data, voice, video, and other vital information across various bases and deployed units.

The contract will see Leidos implementing the AGUN at multiple locations to create a consistent network infrastructure that is designed to be “accessible, trusted, and interoperable” on an international scale. This initiative is expected to bolster the Army’s existing Network Modernization Strategy and Army Unified Network Plan by introducing an enhanced, zero-trust network architecture. The upgrade will contribute to a more secure communication system across all operational areas.

Steve Hull, President of Leidos Digital Modernization Sector, articulated the significance of this achievement, stating, “Winning this $331 million contract is a significant milestone for Leidos and underscores our commitment to supporting the US Army’s modernization efforts.” He added, “We are proud to partner with the Army in deploying the Global Unified Network, which will enhance interoperability and security across all levels of operations.”

The optimization of the AGUN aligns with the Army’s long-term vision to advance military communication capabilities amidst an increasingly complex global landscape.

This contract follows a notable task order Leidos accepted in July 2024, worth $823 million, to provide operational support and maintenance for the US Department of Defense Network, which serves a user base ranging from 30,000 to 160,000 personnel. Earlier this year, the company also secured a contract to supply information hardware solutions tailored for the US Army, cementing its role as a vital partner in military modernization initiatives.