Analysis & Reports

Global Defence Technology examines various military technologies, including European armor, global fighters, and loitering munitions. It also explores synthetic training methods in its second part.

Diehl Defence unveiled the IRIS-T SLS MK 4 air defense system in Berlin on June 9, 2023, enhancing its engagement range to 12 km and altitude to 6 km. The new system allows for eight times the missile readiness compared to previous models, optimizing it for rapid repositioning and close-in protection. It is designed to integrate with other air defense systems and can utilize additional munitions like the CICADA for counter-drone operations.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced that Germany is exploring options for next-generation fighter jets following the termination of the FCAS program. One option includes purchasing an additional 15 F-35 jets from the U.S., while other possibilities involve joining an international fighter program or initiating a domestic program with Airbus. The decision comes after challenges in collaboration with French industry over intellectual property and military requirements.

Switzerland signed a contract for 32 DONAR wheeled howitzers as part of its artillery modernization effort. This procurement aims to enhance the capabilities of the Swiss Armed Forces.

Scania France commenced production of the V3P/Vampire multipurpose carrier vehicle at its Angers facility, designed for the French Army's Very Short Range Air Defence units. The production began a few weeks ago, with a target of 100 vehicles by year-end. The Vampire will replace older models and support the new Mistral missile system, along with additional weaponry.

The British Army is restarting trials of the Ajax armored reconnaissance vehicle under controlled conditions as part of a two-phase improvement plan. The first phase involves limited trials, while the second phase aims to implement significant enhancements, including air filtration and crew heating. The Ajax program has faced numerous delays and issues, including serious injuries to crew members due to noise and vibration during previous trials.

Swarm Aero selected Honeywell Aerospace’s TPE331 turboprop engine for its Group 5 multi-mission unmanned aircraft system on June 9, 2023. This decision marks a significant step in the hardware integration of their drone program, which aims to utilize proven technology for military applications. The aircraft, which has not yet been publicly revealed, is expected to be unveiled in 2026, emphasizing the importance of the propulsion choice in the overall development.

The Pentagon announced the winners of the Lethality Prize Challenge, aimed at developing cost-effective munitions for drones. Five companies, including Northrop Grumman, were recognized for their innovative payloads. The initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance drone capabilities and reduce costs, with a target of acquiring 300,000 drones by 2028.

Picket Defense Systems was selected by the Defense Innovation Unit to advance its Inferno RTC autonomous weapon system in Phase II testing this month. The system aims to address aiming latency issues in counter-drone operations, featuring a rotating turret design that allows for rapid targeting of multiple threats. This selection confirms the system's technical claims and moves it closer to potential fielding after successful evaluations.

Airbus showcased its new uncrewed collaborative combat aircraft and UAS portfolio at the ILA Berlin on June 9, 2026. The highlights include the U145, an uncrewed version of the H145 helicopter, and the U760 Ravenstorm combat drone, designed for multi-domain missions. The U950 Eurodrone is also set to provide strategic ISTAR capabilities by 2029, while the Bird of Prey drone interceptor aims to counter aerial threats for armed forces.

Raytheon is investing $100 million to expand its Portsmouth facility in Rhode Island to enhance production and testing of the LTAMDS and Patriot GEM-T missile systems. This expansion, announced on June 8, 2023, aims to meet the growing demand for advanced air defense capabilities amid increasing global threats. The facility will support the U.S. Army and international partners, including Poland, as they enhance their air defense systems.

HENSOLDT and SE3 Labs signed a memorandum of understanding in Berlin on 09 June 2026 to collaborate on integrating AI capabilities into HENSOLDT's MDOcore platform. This partnership aims to enhance military decision-making through advanced AI technologies, providing a strategic advantage in multi-domain operations. The agreement includes specific programs and ongoing tenders, leveraging SE3 Labs' expertise in spatial and agentic AI.

Australia signed a A$72m ($50m) contract with Rheinmetall NIOA Munitions to establish a new forging capability for manufacturing large calibre ammunition in Maryborough, Queensland. This initiative aims to enhance the ammunition supply for the Australian Defence Force.

Smart Shooter secured a $3.4 million follow-on contract from the U.S. Marine Corps for SMASH 2000LE fire control systems on June 9, 2026. The contract includes options that could raise the total value to $5.8 million, with deliveries expected by the end of 2026. This contract reflects increasing operational demand for Smart Shooter's solutions in response to evolving battlefield threats, particularly from drones.

Russian President Vladimir Putin offered India the opportunity for joint production of the Su-57 stealth fighter jet during the St. Petersburg International Economic Forum. This proposal comes as India faces a significant gap in its airpower capabilities, lacking a fifth-generation fighter. The offer includes technology transfer and integration with Indian systems, amid concerns over India's own domestic fighter jet program and regional security dynamics.

Bittium Corporation launched the Tough SDR Unmanned radio solution at Eurosatory 2026, integrating unmanned land, air, and sea systems into a resilient tactical communications network. This new system enhances command and control capabilities, allowing real-time sensor data transmission and bridging communication gaps in contested environments. It is designed for reliability and jam resistance, supporting modern military operations.

The Sudanese Armed Forces used a Turkish-made HİSAR-A surface-to-air missile to repel a drone attack in Khartoum. Photographic evidence of missile debris was published by OSINT analyst Rich Tedd, confirming the missile's deployment. This development highlights the SAF's efforts to counter the RSF's drone warfare capabilities amid an ongoing conflict that has displaced millions.

The U.S. Marine Corps awarded a $5.8 million contract to Smart Shooter for AI-powered rifle scopes, enhancing their capability to engage small drones. This contract includes soldier-portable SMASH 2000LE systems and options for additional equipment. The SMASH system integrates advanced technology to improve targeting accuracy, reflecting a growing need for effective counter-drone solutions across U.S. military branches.

MKU Limited will showcase its integrated defence technologies at Eurosatory 2026 from 15th to 19th June 2026. The company, which protects over 3 million soldiers and has delivered solutions for over 3,000 military platforms, will present advancements in night enablement, platform survivability, and soldier systems. MKU's technologies include thermal imaging systems, ballistic helmets, and composite armouring solutions.

Ukraine's commander-in-chief approved a new artillery doctrine that aims to develop domestic weapons and achieve a strike capability of 2,000 kilometers by 2030. This plan includes phasing out Soviet-era artillery and emphasizes the production of Ukrainian-designed ballistic and cruise missiles. The doctrine also highlights the importance of improving artillery reconnaissance capabilities to enhance operational effectiveness.