Royal Navy Successfully Demonstrates Drone Downing Capability with Wildcat Helicopter

Bristol Channel, UK – In a groundbreaking demonstration, the Royal Navy recently showcased its enhanced counter-drone proficiency by successfully downing a pilotless Banshee jet using a Martlet missile fired from a Wildcat HMA 2 helicopter. This event marks the first occasion on which a manned helicopter engaged and neutralized an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) independently.

The Wildcat HMA 2, equipped with advanced detection and tracking capabilities, executed the engagement over the Bristol Channel, illustrating the navy’s commitment to adapting to modern aerial threats. Commander James Woods of the 815 Naval Air Squadron expressed his enthusiasm for this achievement, stating, “This is a fantastic development for the Wildcat HMA 2 helicopter and a significant advancement in maritime strike capability for the Royal Navy that further refines our ability to deter and neutralize airborne threats.”

This demonstration follows closely after the Royal Navy’s successful test firing of the Sea Venom anti-ship missile from the same helicopter type, signaling a robust upgrade to the UK’s naval operational capabilities. The Wildcat HMA 2 plays a crucial role in various naval operations, including search and rescue, tracking down drug traffickers, and transporting troops and supplies from Royal Navy frigates, destroyers, and aircraft carriers.

The advancement comes in light of recent drone attacks faced by naval forces in the Red Sea and Gulf of Yemen, particularly from Houthi rebels, underscoring the necessity for enhanced air defense strategies.

The Martlet missile, previously known as the Lightweight Multirole Missile, is a versatile weapon system capable of being launched from numerous platforms across land, air, and sea. Weighing in at 13 kilograms (28.66 pounds) and capable of reaching speeds of up to Mach 1.5, the missile has an effective range of over 6 miles (9.65 kilometers) and is designed to target a variety of threats, including armored vehicles, fast-attack craft, and unmanned systems.

In a move to bolster defense capabilities, the UK Ministry of Defence placed an order for a significant number of Martlet missiles in July, aimed at enhancing both the British Army’s short-range air defense and the Royal Navy’s anti-surface warfare operations.

As the maritime landscape evolves, the Royal Navy’s commitment to developing advanced defense mechanisms is clear, reinforcing its position as a formidable force in protecting UK interests both at home and abroad.

US Navy Announces Life Service Extension for 12 Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyers

The U.S. Navy has revealed plans to extend the service life of 12 Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers beyond their anticipated 35-year operational lifespan. The selected ships, which comprise the Flight I systems commissioned between 1991 and 1997, will undergo upgrades to enhance their capabilities, especially in anti-submarine warfare helicopter support.

According to a navy press release, the decision to extend the life of these destroyers was informed by a comprehensive “hull-by-hull evaluation” focusing on the material condition, combat effectiveness, technical feasibility, and lifecycle maintenance requirements of each platform. After receiving the necessary upgrades, these ships are expected to remain operational from 2028 to 2035.

U.S. Navy Secretary Carlos Del Toro emphasized the significance of this decision, stating, “Extending these highly-capable, well-maintained destroyers will further bolster our numbers as new construction warships join the Fleet. It also underscores their enduring role in projecting power globally and their proven capability to defend against missile and drone threats."

The evaluations for the Arleigh Burke project took place over the last ten months, covering all Flight I hulls (DDG 51 to 71). Details on the specific destroyers selected for the service extension will be announced at a later date.

In a statement, Admiral Lisa Franchetti noted the importance of maintaining readiness within the Navy, saying, “Today’s budget-constrained environment requires the Navy to make prioritized investments to keep more ready players on the field. We are actively pulling the right levers to maintain and grow our Battle Force Inventory, which is essential for supporting U.S. global interests and ensuring decisive victory in conflict.”

Notably, the Navy had previously initiated a similar project for its Arleigh Burke destroyers stationed in Japan earlier this year. Furthermore, the service approved a life extension for the lead Arleigh Burke ship in 2023 and awarded BAE Systems a $107.7 million contract in 2022 to enhance the operability of the USS Ross (DDG 71), the last Flight I vessel, for an additional decade.

As the U.S. Navy continues to adapt and fortify its fleet amidst global security challenges, this decision reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a robust and capable naval presence.

BAE Systems to Supply Advanced Naval Gun Systems for Royal Netherlands and Belgian Navies

The Dutch Ministry of Defense has announced a significant contract with BAE Systems for the delivery of eight Bofors 40Mk4 naval gun systems for the Royal Netherlands and Belgian navies. The deal involves the installation of two advanced gun systems on each of the four anti-submarine warfare (ASW) frigates currently under construction.

This comprehensive contract, valued at a substantial amount, includes not just the gun systems, but also installation services, training for personnel, necessary documentation, spare parts, and tools. Additionally, there is an option to include BAE Systems’ state-of-the-art 3P programmable ammunition and extra guns intended for training purposes.

Delivery of the naval gun systems is scheduled to commence in 2026. Stefan Löfström, marketing and sales director at BAE Systems Bofors, emphasized the significance of this contract, stating, “This key milestone will ensure the new frigates have the cutting-edge capabilities they require, with the addition of our advanced 3P ammunition.” He further reiterated BAE Systems’ commitment to bolstering NATO allies’ defenses to enhance safety across Europe.

The Bofors 40Mk4 is a versatile weapon designed for both anti-aircraft and anti-surface warfare. With a capability to utilize a variety of ammunition, including the programmable 40mm Bofors 3P all-target ammo, it stands ready to confront various threats. This advanced ammunition can be programmed in six distinct modes, allowing it to engage a wide array of targets from aerial to surface and shore-based threats. Notably, it is effective against traditional threats such as anti-ship missiles and aircraft, and can even deal with modern challenges posed by fast maneuvering small boats and concealed targets.

This remotely-operated gun system has an impressive rate of fire of 300 rounds per minute and can effectively engage targets at a maximum range of 7.8 miles (12.55 kilometers).

The ASW frigate program, valued at 4 billion euros ($4.4 billion), is being designed and built by Dutch shipbuilder Damen Naval. According to timelines, the Royal Netherlands Navy is expected to begin receiving the frigates in 2029, followed by the Belgian Navy a year later.

In addition to the 40mm guns, these highly anticipated warships will be equipped with a 76-millimeter gun, Raytheon Mk54 torpedoes, Rolling Airframe Missiles, the Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile, and Kongsberg’s Naval Strike Missile. For complete force protection, the frigates will also feature remote weapon systems providing 360-degree coverage.

This collaboration marks a critical development in enhancing naval capabilities for both countries and reinforces BAE Systems’ ongoing support to NATO allies.

Peruvian Air Force Bolsters Medical Evacuation Capabilities with New Beechcraft King Air 360C

The Peruvian Air Force has received its first Beechcraft King Air 360C ambulance aircraft, marking a significant enhancement in the country’s aeromedical evacuation and disaster response capabilities. Acquired from US-based Textron Aviation, the aircraft is set to play a crucial role in medical missions, particularly in reaching remote areas of the nation.

Assigned to Air Group 8 in Lima, the Beechcraft King Air 360C will operate from Callao Air Base, allowing for swift access to regions that may be difficult to reach by ground. The versatile aircraft is designed to accommodate various mission configurations and can seat up to 15 passengers or transport a cargo load of 2,334 kilograms (5,145 pounds). It has a maximum operational altitude of 10,600 meters (34,700 feet) and boasts a cruising speed of 578 kilometers (359 miles) per hour, ensuring rapid responses during emergencies.

Shortly after its introduction, the Peruvian government announced the aircraft’s deployment on two medical missions, successfully transporting patients in critical condition from the northern and southern regions of the country to specialized hospitals in Lima. This immediate use underscores the aircraft’s potential impact on the health and safety of Peruvians, particularly those in urgent need of medical care.

With the addition of the Beechcraft King Air 360C, the Peruvian Air Force is taking significant steps towards strengthening its light transport, medical evacuation, and disaster management capabilities, promising enhanced service to its citizens in times of need.

European Commission Selects Consortium for IRIS² Satellite Constellation to Enhance Connectivity and Sovereignty

PARIS — In a strategic move to bolster its autonomous satellite communication capabilities, the European Commission has appointed a consortium comprising SES, Eutelsat, and Hispasat to deploy the IRIS² satellite constellation. This initiative comes as the European Union seeks to reduce its reliance on foreign entities, notably Elon Musk’s Starlink, for broadband services.

The consortium is set to formalize a 12-year concession contract by December, according to a statement released by the Commission on Thursday. As part of the agreement, over 290 satellites will be launched into multiple orbits, with prominent subcontractors including Thales Alenia Space, Airbus Space and Defence, Italy’s Telespazio, and Thales SIX.

Transitioning to IRIS² is particularly urgent given that militaries worldwide have come to depend on Starlink, the first large satellite constellation facilitating low Earth orbit broadband, raising concerns of vulnerability associated with reliance on a private service provider. Key military stakeholders, such as the U.S. Air Force, use Starlink for essential command and control operations, while Ukraine has utilized the service for drone guidance and battlefield communications.

“IRIS² is an essential pillar of our resilience,” commented Christophe Grudler, a member of the European Parliament’s industry committee, via a post on social media platform X. “We need it fast.”

The EU envisions IRIS² as a sovereign alternative to other global satellite systems like Amazon’s Kuiper and OneWeb based in the U.K. With satellite-based connectivity emerging as a strategic asset for national security and resilience, the Commission emphasizes the need for reliable access that does not hinge on third-party services.

Under the terms of the contract, the SpaceRISE consortium will roll out governmental services by 2030, also enabling commercial usage over time. The IRIS² system will facilitate government operations including border and maritime surveillance, secure communications for embassies, and military missions. The consortium hailed the milestone as a critical step in forming a secure, resilient, and autonomous communications infrastructure for Europe, targeting full operational status by the early 2030s.

The projected timeline for IRIS² represents a setback from previous estimates, which suggested an initial deployment as early as late 2024 and full operational availability by 2027. The satellite system will encompass both low Earth orbit (LEO) satellites, providing low-latency connectivity, and medium Earth orbit (MEO) satellites, which can serve larger areas globally. The EU aims to extend broadband access to underserved regions across Europe and the Arctic.

Financially, the estimated cost of the constellation stands at €10.6 billion (approximately $11.6 billion). Funding will be a combination of public and private investments from the consortium. Last year, the EU allocated €2.4 billion for the IRIS² initiative, with €1.65 billion earmarked through 2027, subject to further European funding decisions post-2027 that may depend on parliamentary and member state backing of a successor program.

Concerns have been voiced by figures such as German Economy Minister Robert Habeck, who called for a re-evaluation of the IRIS² project in March, questioning the proposed €12 billion budget and the allocation of work between France and Germany.

IRIS² joins the ranks of other critical EU programs, including the Galileo navigation satellite system and the Copernicus Earth-observation program, as Europe strives to enhance its strategic technological autonomy.

Reporting by Rudy Ruitenberg, Europe Correspondent for Defense News.

Pakistan Signs MoU with Thailand for MRAP Vehicle Procurement

Islamabad, October 30, 2024 – In a significant move to bolster its military capabilities, Pakistan has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the Thai government for the procurement of 100 Chaiseri First Win Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles for the Pakistan Army.

The agreement also includes a transfer-of-technology scheme that will enable local production of the 4×4 vehicles on Pakistani soil through collaboration with Thai Defence Industry and Heavy Industries Taxila. This initiative aims to enhance Pakistan’s defense manufacturing capabilities while strengthening ties with Thailand.

A formal commercial contract to finalize the acquisition is anticipated to be established during a bilateral meeting later this year, or potentially at the upcoming international military convention hosted by the Pakistan Trade Development Authority in November in Karachi.

The First Win MRAP vehicles, designed by Chaiseri in Pathum Thani, Thailand, are specifically engineered to withstand improvised explosive device (IED) attacks and ambushes, making them a critical addition to modern military operations. The vehicle is built with an all-welded v-hull chassis to enhance protection and features NATO-standard armor capable of enduring blasts from grenades and even 155-millimeter artillery shells.

In addition to the Pakistan Army, the First Win MRAP has gained traction among other militaries, currently being used by the Royal Thai Army, Malaysian Army, Indonesian Army, and various UN peacekeeping missions in the Eastern Himalayas, particularly in Bhutan. As of 2024, the Philippines is also expected to purchase approximately 900 units of the First Win.

The vehicles offer a top speed of 110 kilometers (68 miles) per hour and can accommodate up to 10 passengers, making them a versatile option for both combat and transportation needs.

Through this procurement, Pakistan aims to enhance its operational readiness and improve the safety of its personnel in challenging environments.

Naikai Zosen Launches Japan’s First Landing Craft Utility Vessel "Nihonbare"

On October 29, Naikai Zosen Corporation celebrated a significant milestone with the launch of the Japan Self-Defense Force – Maritime Transport Group’s inaugural Landing Craft Utility (LCU) vessel, named "Nihonbare," in Onomichi City, Hiroshima Prefecture. The event, attended by Deputy Defense Minister Kinikubo, marked the official naming and first contact with water for the LCU, which is a crucial component of Japan’s strategy to enhance military logistics.

The Nihonbare, constructed at a cost of approximately 4.1 billion yen ($26.9 million), measures 80 meters (262 feet) in length and is designed to transport troops and supplies, particularly in shallow-water port areas among Japan’s many islands. With a payload capability of several hundred tons, it can accommodate up to 30 personnel, 12 tactical vehicles, or standard 20-foot containers. The vessel has a top speed of 15 knots (28 km/h or 17 mph), enhancing its operational readiness.

The acquisition of the Nihonbare is part of Japan’s broader initiative to bolster its military logistics capabilities, particularly in the southwestern islands, further strengthening the nation’s island defense system. The launch of this vessel is being overseen by Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency, with plans to integrate various personnel from the joint forces stationed at the Kure Naval Base next year.

Looking ahead, the Nihonbare is the first of a series of vessels, with nine additional ships scheduled for completion by 2028. This future fleet will consist of three more LCU platforms based on its hull design, four maneuver support vessels, and two medium-sized transport vessels. The first of these medium-sized vessels is expected to be launched later this November.

As Japan continues to modernize its naval capabilities, the introduction of the Nihonbare symbolizes a commitment to enhancing maritime security and operational efficiency in the region.

US Approves $941 Million Military Sale to Argentina, Including 34 F-16 Aircraft

The US State Department has given the green light for the sale of 34 F-16 fighter jets to Argentina, alongside a comprehensive military equipment package valued at $941 million. This significant arms deal also encompasses Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles, general-purpose bombs, components for laser-guided weapons, and fuze systems.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) highlighted that this proposed sale aims to enhance Argentina’s military capabilities, enabling the country to effectively address both current and future threats. The deal will provide Argentina with increased capacity for air defense, offensive counter air operations, and close air support missions.

Lockheed Martin has been designated as the prime contractor for this transaction; however, it still awaits approval from the US Congress.

Argentina is considered a “Major Non-NATO Ally” by the United States, a designation that underscores the strategic partnership between the two nations. The DSCA noted that this sale is aligned with US foreign policy goals and national security objectives, seeking to bolster the security of Argentina, which is viewed as a stabilizing force in South America.

In a related development, the US recently announced $40 million in foreign military financing to enhance Argentina’s defense capabilities. This funding is aimed at supporting the acquisition of the F-16s and marks the first instance in 20 years that Argentina has benefited from such military financing from Washington.

The approval of this military sale signals a continued commitment to strengthening the defense relationship between the US and Argentina, reflecting the latter’s role in promoting political stability and economic progress in the region.