Browsing: World

Airbus will supply 25 additional Halcon Eurofighter Typhoons to Spain: Getafe, Spain – In a significant move to modernize its air force and solidify its position within NATO, the Spanish government has finalized a contract for 25 additional Eurofighter aircraft. The agreement, signed with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) based in Munich, Germany, marks a substantial investment in the nation’s defense capabilities and reinforces European industrial cooperation.  

Leonardo, Arbit Join Forces to Develop Advanced Cybersecurity Solution: Rome – Leonardo, a global high-tech company, has announced a strategic agreement with Arbit Cyber Defence Systems, a Danish specialist in data security solutions for Intelligence, Defence, EU, and NATO multinational and multi-domain operations. The collaboration aims to co-design, co-develop, and certify a cutting-edge cross-domain cybersecurity solution to meet the stringent security demands of complex, multinational, and multi-domain programs requiring high levels of interoperability.  

Rheinmetall-Blackned win Bundeswehr’s €1.2 Billion Digitalization Project: Berlin (December 19, 2024) – In a major push to modernize its land forces, the German Bundeswehr has awarded a €1.2 billion (gross) contract to Rheinmetall and its partner company, blackned, for a large-scale project within the “Digitalization of land-based operations” (D-LBO) program. The initiative aims to integrate cutting-edge IT systems into over 10,000 combat and support vehicles by mid-2030, significantly enhancing the operational capabilities and interoperability of the German Army.

Israel-IAI Unveil First Israeli Quantum Computer: Jerusalem, Israel – Israel has taken a significant step towards becoming a global leader in quantum computing technology with the unveiling of its first domestically built quantum computer. This milestone achievement, announced by a consortium consisting of the Israel Innovation Authority, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), and Hebrew University, marks a major leap forward in the country’s scientific and technological prowess.

Chilean National Police picks Schiebel’s Camcopter S-100 UAV for security operations: Santiago, Chile – Carabineros de Chile, the Chilean national police force, has recently acquired an advanced unmanned air system (UAS) to bolster its security operations in the challenging Araucanía region. This strategic move positions Chile as a pioneer in law enforcement drone technology within Latin America.

US MDA successfully intercepts ballistic missile off Guam Coast: Guam, USA – In a groundbreaking achievement for US missile defense capabilities, the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) successfully intercepted a ballistic missile target off the coast of Guam on Tuesday (December 10, 2024). This historic event marks a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to bolster its defense posture in the Indo-Pacific region.

Airbus A400M Transport Aircraft for Kazakhstan: Almaty, Kazakhstan – Airbus Defence and Space has marked a significant milestone in Kazakhstan’s military modernization efforts by delivering the first Airbus A400M transport aircraft. This strategic acquisition will significantly enhance the country’s tactical and strategic airlift capabilities.  

BAE Systems Wins Sweden-Denmark CV-90 Combat Vehicle Order: London, [December 6, 2024] – BAE Systems has secured a significant $2.5 billion contract with Denmark and Sweden for the delivery of new CV90 combat vehicles. This contract builds upon an initial agreement signed with Sweden in May 2024 and establishes a new three-party framework with Denmark’s Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) and Sweden’s Defense Materiel Administration (FMV).

ISRO Successfully Launches Proba-3 Mission: The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) achieved another significant milestone on December 5, 2023, by successfully launching the European Space Agency’s (ESA) Proba-3 mission. ISRO’s Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle (PSLV-C59) lifted off from the First Launch Pad at the Satish Dhawan Space Centre in Sriharikota, Andhra Pradesh, India, propelling the Proba-3 satellites into a highly elliptical orbit. This successful launch further solidifies India’s position as a reliable launch service provider and highlights its growing collaboration with international space agencies.

Elbit Systems will supply drones, autonomous systems to IMOD in $40 mn deal: Tel Aviv, Israel – The Israel Ministry of Defense (IMOD) has taken a significant step towards enhancing its military capabilities by awarding contracts worth approximately $40 million to Elbit Systems. The deal, which involves the procurement of advanced drones and autonomous systems, underscores Israel’s commitment to technological innovation and its role as a global leader in military technology.

SAIL-John Cockerill India MoU: New Delhi, November 29, 2024 – In a strategic move to bolster India’s manufacturing and defense capabilities, Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) has announced a significant partnership with John Cockerill India to produce specialized steel products. The collaboration, formally unveiled yesterday, is set to enhance India’s self-reliance in the defense and aerospace sectors by producing high-quality steel tailored for critical applications, including defense-grade equipment, heavy industries, and high-end infrastructure projects.

Navantia Installs AIP on S-80 Submarine: Cartagena (Spain), November 26th, 2024.- Navantia’s shipyard in Cartagena has achieved a significant milestone by completing the installation of a Hydrogen-based Air Independent Propulsion System (AIP) into an S80 class submarine. This marks the first installation of a third-generation AIP in a submarine. The event was attended by Spanish National Armament Director, Admiral Aniceto Rosique Nieto.

EDGE-Fincantieri MoU for underwater solutions: Abu Dhabi, UAE / Trieste, Italy / Paris, France – November 5, 2024 – EDGE, a global leader in advanced technology and defense, and Fincantieri, a world-renowned shipbuilding powerhouse, have announced a strategic partnership to revolutionize the underwater sector. The two companies have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to collaborate on the design, development, and construction of cutting-edge underwater systems.

Rheinmetall, Croatia DOK-ING sign MoU for Unmanned Ground Systems (UGS): Düsseldorf, Germany – October 28, 2024 – Rheinmetall AG, a leading international technology group, and DOK-ING, a Croatian manufacturer of unmanned ground systems (UGS), have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint venture. This strategic partnership aims to develop and market advanced UGS solutions for military and civilian applications.

US approves $2 billion arms package for Taiwan: The United States has approved a significant arms sale to Taiwan, valued at approximately $1.988 billion, in a move aimed at bolstering the island nation’s defense capabilities against a backdrop of rising tensions with China. This marks the 17th arms sale authorized by the Biden administration to Taiwan and comes amidst increased Chinese military activity around the Taiwan Strait.

EDGE Group’s MALATH partners ERA RF Technologies: Abu Dhabi, UAE (October 26, 2024): EDGE Group’s MALATH, a company dedicated to facilitating trade with Turkish companies, has joined forces with ERA RF Technologies, a leading Turkish provider of advanced communication solutions. The partnership, formalized through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed at SAHA Expo 2024, aims to enhance satellite communication capabilities in critical sectors.

Rheinmetall delivers Marder IFVs to Ukraine: Düsseldorf, Germany (October 28, 2024) – Rheinmetall has continued its support for Ukraine’s defense efforts by delivering an additional 20 Marder infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) to the Ukrainian armed forces. This latest delivery brings the total number of combat vehicles supplied by Rheinmetall, both directly and through ring exchanges, to approximately 200.

India-China Agree to Disengage Troops in Ladakh: In a significant step towards easing tensions along their disputed Himalayan border, India Monday announced on that it has reached a mutual agreement with China to disengage their troops from several friction points in the Ladakh region. The decision, based on a statement made by India’s External Affairs Secretary, Vikram Misri, marks a crucial breakthrough in the ongoing border standoff that has been simmering for four-and-a-half-years.

Netherlands to buy Kongsberg’s NASAMS, NOMADS Systems: The Netherlands is taking a significant step towards strengthening its air defense capabilities with the planned acquisition of NASAMS and NOMADS systems from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (Kongsberg). This proposed deal, which has been valued at approximately NOK 11 billion ($1.1 billion, GBP 870 million), comes as part of the country’s comprehensive CITADEL program for integrated air and missile defense.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh opens 750 projects on China border: New Delhi, India – In a significant move to strengthen its border infrastructure and enhance national security, India has inaugurated 750 new projects undertaken by the Border Roads Organization (BRO). These projects, spread across 11 states and union territories, have been dedicated to the nation by Defense Minister Rajnath Singh.

India Cabinet clears Nuclear Submarines, MQ-9B drones: New Delhi, India – The Indian government has given the green light for two major defense procurements: the indigenous construction of nuclear-powered attack submarines and the purchase of 31 MQ-9B remotely piloted aircraft from the United States. These acquisitions will significantly bolster the capabilities of the Indian Navy and Armed Forces.

Dassault Aviation’s UCAV to complement 5th Gen Rafale Fighter Jets: Saint-Cloud, France – The French government has announced the development of an unmanned combat aerial vehicle (UCAV) that will complement the future Rafale F5 standard after 2030. The announcement was made by Sébastien Lecornu, French Minister of the Armed Forces and Veterans Affairs, at a ceremony marking the 60th anniversary of the French Strategic Air Forces (FAS).  The UCAV will be a stealth combat drone designed to operate collaboratively with the Rafale fighter jet. It will incorporate advanced technologies such as stealth, autonomous control, internal payload capacity, and more. The UCAV will be highly versatile and capable of evolving to meet future threats.

Rafael displays C-UAS and Trophy APS at AUSA 2024:  Washington, D.C. – Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd., a global leader in aerospace and defense solutions, is set to showcase its latest capabilities at the Association of the United States Army (AUSA) 2024 conference, taking place from October 14-16. One of the highlights of Rafael’s display will be its unique modular Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) capabilities. This comprehensive solution combines advanced detection and interception technologies to provide ground forces with robust protection against a wide range of airborne threats, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

American Rheinmetall US Army’s S-MET Inc II Contract: Sterling Heights, Michigan – American Rheinmetall Vehicles has secured one of two contracts awarded in the U.S. Army’s Small Multi-Purpose Equipment Transport (S-MET) Inc II program. The company’s unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) will provide the Army with a versatile and resilient platform capable of efficiently transporting supplies and equipment over rugged terrain to support combat operations.

Leonardo acquires majority stake in GEM Electtronica: Rome, Italy – Global aerospace, defense, and security company Leonardo has finalized its acquisition of a controlling stake in GEM Elettronica, a leading Italian developer and manufacturer of navigation systems, situational awareness, radar sensors, optronic, and inertial sensors for military naval and coastal surveillance applications. The acquisition, valued at approximately €16 million, increases Leonardo’s ownership in GEM Elettronica from 30% to 65%. This strategic move aligns with Leonardo’s Industrial Plan, which prioritizes bolt-on acquisitions in key areas to strengthen its market position.

Tank Swap: Rheinmetall to supply Leopart MBTs to Czech Army to support Ukraine: Prague, Czech Republic – German defense contractor Rheinmetall has secured a new contract to supply main battle tanks and armored recovery vehicles to the Czech Republic as part of a broader effort to support Ukraine in its ongoing conflict with Russia.  The deal, valued at over €100 million, was signed in late July and marks the second such agreement between the two countries since October 2022.

DRDO tests Phase 2 of India’s Ballistic Missile Defence System: New Delhi, July 24: In a significant boost to its national security against long range ballistic missiles, India Wednesday successfully conducted the Phase II test of its indigenously developed Anti-Ballistic Missile (ABM) defence system. The trial, conducted at the Integrated Test Range (ITR) in Odisha’s Chandipur, marks a crucial milestone in India’s strategic deterrence capabilities.

Rheinmetall Ammunition Factory Ukraine: Rheinmetall will be responsible for the complete technical outfitting of the factory, including its commissioning. The company aims to begin construction shortly and anticipates completion within several years. Ammunition production is slated to commence within 24 months.

Global Combat Air Programme: Italy, UK and Japan, the partner nations of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), Monday unveiled new fighter jet concept at Farnborough International Airshow. This marks the first time the three nations have exhibited together, showcasing the substantial progress made towards delivering this cutting-edge fighter jet. The new concept model, on display at Farnborough International Airshow, represents a significant evolution from previous designs. Featuring a notably larger wingspan, the aircraft is optimized for improved aerodynamics, a crucial factor in modern aerial combat.

Leonardo RINA’s anti-corruption certification: Rome, Italy (July 19, 2024) – Leonardo, a global player in aerospace, defense and security technologies, has solidified its position as a leader in the fight against corruption. The company successfully renewed its Anti-Corruption System Certification, demonstrating its unwavering commitment to preventing bribery and upholding the highest ethical standards.

Fincantieri-Hera Group partnership for sustainable shipbuilding: Monfalcone, Italy (July 19, 2024) – Shipbuilding giant Fincantieri and Italian environmental leader Hera Group have announced a partnership to tackle waste management and promote sustainability in Fincantieri’s shipyards across Italy. This collaboration will see the creation of a new joint venture company specifically designed to handle the nearly 100,000 tons of industrial waste produced annually by Fincantieri. The key objective? Reduce waste generation and maximize recovery through the principles of a circular economy.

Indian Air Force Exercise Pitch Black 2024: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has deployed a contingent to Darwin, Australia, to participate in Exercise Pitch Black 2024, the largest iteration of the multinational drill in its 43-year history. The biennial exercise, hosted by the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF), will be held from July 12 to August 2 and will see the participation of 20 countries, over 140 aircraft, and 4,400 military personnel.

Saudi Arabia Airbus 1330 MRTT: Getafe, Spain – July 11, 2024-  The Royal Saudi Arabia Air Force (RSAF) has significantly bolstered its aerial refueling and transport capabilities by ordering four additional Airbus A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) aircraft. This marks the third contract between Airbus and Saudi Arabia for the A330 MRTT, solidifying the RSAF’s position as a leading operator of this versatile aircraft globally.

Hanwha Aerospace Romania K9-self-propelled howitzers: Hanwha Aerospace, a South Korean defense contractor, has secured a $1 billion contract to provide Romania with K9 self-propelled howitzers and K10 ammunition resupply vehicles. The deal, signed on July 9th, also includes ammunition and various support vehicles. This agreement marks Romania as the 10th member of the K9 user club, solidifying the K9’s position as a dominant force in the global self-propelled howitzer market with over 50% market share.

Dassault Avisation SA MRO facility India: French aviation giant Dassault Aviation is setting up a foothold in India with plans for a maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility near Jewar International Airport near national capital Delhi. This move paves the way for potential local manufacturing of the latest Rafale fighter jets, fulfilling India’s long-standing requirement for new warplanes.

Rheinmetall wins record order for military trucks: German defense company Rheinmetall signed a landmark contract with the Bundeswehr (German armed forces) for the delivery of up to 6,500 military trucks, valued at €3.5 billion (including VAT). This marks the largest order in Rheinmetall’s history for logistic vehicles. The agreement comes after the German Parliament approved funding in June 2024. The initial call-off includes over 610 vehicles worth €312 million, with 250 scheduled for delivery this year. Financing for this initial portion comes primarily from the Bundeswehr’s special funds.

General Upendra Dwivedi takes charge: The new Chief of the Army Staff, Gen Upendra Dwivedi, has operational experience along the frontiers with China and Pakistan. He has also served as Vice Chief of the Army and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Northern Command. General Dwivedi, who has vast operational experience along the frontiers with China and Pakistan, was serving as the Vice Chief of the Army.

SpacePixxel gets contract for IAF’s miniaturized satellites: India’s ministry of defence Tuesday signed a contract with SpacePixxel Technologies Pvt Ltd. for the design and development of a miniaturized satellite capable of carrying multiple advanced payloads weighing up to 150 kilograms. This project is specifically led by the Indian Air Force, highlighting the importance of this technology for national defence.

Adani-EDGE sign landmark defence cooperation agreement: Abu Dhabi, UAE / Ahmedabad, India – In a move that promises to reshape the landscape of defense technology, India’s Adani Group and UAE’s EDGE Group signed a landmark cooperation agreement on June 11, 2024. This collaboration marks a significant step forward for both companies and the defense industries of India and the UAE.

GRSE wins Advanced Dredger order from Bangladesh: India’s leading public sector defence shipyard, Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, has secured a $16.6 Million Contract for Advanced Dredger from Bangladesh. The advanced dredgeder to be built by the GRSE will be supplied to the Bangladesh Inland Waterways Transport Authority (BIWTA). The contract, signed on June 2nd in Dhaka, Bangladesh, marks another milestone for GRSE’s commitment to fostering international cooperation and delivering high-quality maritime solutions.

Elbit Systems’ Red Sky Air Defense System: Elbit Systems, a leading Israeli defense technology company, has been awarded a $50 million contract for its innovative air defense system, “Red Sky.” This Tactical Very Short-range Air Defense (VSHORAD) system is designed to specifically counter low-altitude aerial threats, offering a comprehensive solution for border and strategic asset defense. The Red Sky system incorporates both electronic warfare (EW) and hard-kill defense capabilities, providing a multi-layered approach to aerial threat neutralization.

US Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) project: The future of air combat took a significant step forward with the US Air Force’s selection of General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Inc. (GA-ASI) and Anduril to develop and manufacture Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) prototypes. This program aims to revolutionize aerial warfare by deploying fleets of low-cost, modular, and highly autonomous unmanned aircraft alongside manned fighter jets.

Anduril Industries USAF’s CCA Programme: The US Air Force (USAF) has taken a bold step towards the future of aerial combat with the selection of Anduril, a non-traditional defense company, to participate in the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. Announced on April 24, 2024, this selection marks a significant shift in the defense industry landscape and opens doors for innovative approaches to unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Nirbhay Cruise Missile with Indian Engine: India successfully test-fired its indigenously developed Nirbhay cruise missile on Thursday, marking a significant step towards bolstering its long-range precision strike capabilities. Launched from Chandipur in Odisha, the Nirbhay missile boasts a range of 1,000 kilometers and is designed for conventional (non-nuclear) attacks. This time Nirbhay missile has been tested with an indigenous engine, reducing the country’s reliance on foreign vendors and partners.

Operation Meghdoot and Indian Air Force: Operation Meghdoot, launched in 1984, stands as a testament to the remarkable collaboration between the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force (IAF) in securing the strategically vital Siachen Glacier. This unforgiving terrain, known as the world’s highest battlefield, has witnessed decades of unwavering commitment from the IAF in ensuring India’s dominance in the region.

Rheinmetall Mission Master SP Unmanned Ground Vehicle: American Rheinmetall Vehicles, in collaboration with Rheinmetall Canada, has successfully conducted a live-fire capability demonstration for the U.S. Marine Corps (USMC) at Fort Clinton, Ohio. The demonstration showcased the unique capabilities of the Rheinmetall Mission Master SP autonomous, unmanned ground vehicle (A-UGV) paired with the Fieldranger Remotely Controlled Weapon Station (RCWS).

Saab’s defence factory in Jhajjar, Haryana: Saab, a Swedish aerospace and defense company, has been a trusted supplier for India’s defence and security forces for over four decades. In a significant move, Saab, after receiving approval for 100% foreign direct investment, has established a new company, Saab FFVO India Pvt Ltd. This company will fully own a new manufacturing facility and produce the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon.

Saab-MBDA join hands for anti-tank, air defence weapons: Two leading major European powers France and Sweden have decided to strengthen their defence co-operation under a new strategic partnership signed on 30 January as part of French President Emmanuel Macron’s state visit to Sweden. According to a press statement issued by Swedish defence company Saab, Anti-tank and air defence have been identified as priority areas for co-operation.

India-US 2+2 meeting: Amid the ongoing global turbulence, India and the US are scheduled to hold the 2+2 meeting in New Delhi around November 9-10. The US Secretary of Defence Lloyd J Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken are scheduled to meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in the national capital, officials told media.

Australia orders Rafael’s Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles: Australia has finalized a finalised a substantial acquisition contract with Israel’s Rafael’s Australian subsidiary Rafael Australia for supply of the Rafael’s Spike LR2 anti-tank guided missiles to Australian Defence Forces (ADF) under the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) systems programme, Rafael Australia said on Tuesday.

Elbit Systems’ ReDrone Counter-UAS: Israel’s leading defence company Elbit Systems Limited Monday (August 21) said that it has won a contract worth approximately $55 million to supply multi-layered ReDrone Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) to the Netherlands. The contract will be performed over a period of four years. As part of the contract, Elbit Systems will supply several mobile, stationary and deployed configurations of the ReDrone integrated Counter-UAS solution along with a logistic support package and training.

Rheinmetall’s Lynx IFV plant in Hungary: German defence company Rheinmetall officially opened its new factory in Zalaegerszeg in Hungary on Friday (August 18).  The new plant marks a major milestone for Rheinmetall and underscores the Group’s commitment to the country. Rheinmetall said this cutting-edge facility will produce the Lynx infantry fighting vehicle, the world’s most advanced Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV). 

Hanwha Defence selected for Australian Army’s Land 400 project: Israeli defence company Elbit Systems Wednesday (August 16) announced that its partner in the Australian Land 400 Phase 3 project, Hanwha Defense Australia has been downselected by the Australian Government, as the preferred tenderer for the project, with final Government approval to be sought at the conclusion of contract negotiations. Hanwha further reported that Elbit Systems is a key partner to Hanwa to deliver the Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV) under the Australian Army’s Land 400 Phase 3 Project.

Rafael wins maintenance contract from Asian Navy: Israeli defence company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. is announcing that it has won a new contract with an Asian nation to provide comprehensive maintenance support services for operational systems employed by its navy, the company announced on Wednesday (August 9). The multi-year agreement is estimated at 100 million Shekels (30 million dollars) and will include maintenance services for the navy’s TYPHOON and MINI-TYPHOON remotely-controlled naval weapon stations, Naval SPIKE ER and NLOS missile systems, EO surveillance systems, as well as EW Integrated Decoy Systems (IDS).

The ISO Bill 2023 for Theatre Commands: The lower house of Indian Parliament, the Lok Sabha, Friday cleared the Inter-Services Organisation (Command, Control and Discipline) Bill, 2023 that seeks to empower the Commander-in-Chief and Officer-in Command of Inter-Services Organisations with all disciplinary and administrative powers with respect to personnel serving in or attached to such organisations, a Defence Ministry statement said. Once passed by the Rajya Sabha, the upper house of India’s bicameral Parliament, the law will pave the way for providing rules and regulation for Indian military’s theaterization.

India’s first military drone testing centre in Tamil Nadu: India’s ministry of defence has the country’s first ever testing centre for Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAVs) under the Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS) will be established on five acres of land at Vallam Vadagal in Kancheepuram district in southern state of Tamil Nadu. The Rs 50 crore ($6 million) facility was granted approval by the Ministry of Defence after a bid was submitted by Keltron-led consortium in collaboration with Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO).

Rheinmetall acquires Expal Systems: German defence company Rheinmetall AG has completed its takeover of all shares in Expal Systems S.A.U. of Madrid. First announced last November, the acquisition follows final approval by the relevant authorities. The transfer of Expal S.A.U.’s business activities to Rheinmetall took place on 1 August 2023, the company said on Tuesday (August 1).  

Naviris bags contract for mid-life upgrade of Horizon class destroyers: OCCAR (Organisation for Joint Armament Cooperation) has awarded Naviris and eurosam a contract for the Mid-Life Upgrade (MLU) of the French and Italian Horizon frigates. The two co-contractors, Naviris and eurosam, will work in close relationship with their shareholders, Fincantieri and Naval Group for the frigate, MBDA Italia, MBDA France and Thales for the new generation of Principal Anti-Air Missile System & Long-Range Radar (PAAMS & LRR), Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri said in a statement on Monday (July 31).

Leonardo bags 18 research and development project under EDF: Leonardo, a leading global high-tech company in Aerospace Defence and Security, has been awarded 18 research and development projects (R&D), including ten capacitive development and eight research projects, under the European Defence Fund (EDF) WP22 (Work Program 2022). The EDF is the European Commission’s flagship for promoting defence cooperation through competitive and collaborative projects that cover the entire R&D cycle.

India gifts INS Kirpan warship to Vietnam Navy: In a significant move to enhance its strategic and military relations in China’s backyard, India Saturday handed over a fully operational warship of Indian Navy to its close military ally Vietnam. This is for the first time when India offered a fully operational missile corvette to Vietnam as Indian Navy first decommissioned INS Kirpan and handed it over to Vietnam People’s Navy (VPN).

Rheinmetall’s Marder Infantry Fighting Vehicle for Ukraine: German defence company Rheinmetall is supplying another 20 Marder Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) to Ukrainian Army as per a direction from the German government, the company said on Saturday. The contract for these 20 Marder IFVs was awarded last month while the value of the order has been estimated in the lower-two-digit million-euro range. The Marders are due to be delivered this summer.

India DRDO Agni Prime Missile: The first pre-induction night launch of the missile with a strike range of 1,000 to 2,000 km was carried out on Wednesday by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the elite strategic forces command, officials said. The defence ministry said the test-firing met all the desired objectives and that it paved the way for induction of the system into the armed forces.

Rheinmetall said the current order was the last call-off from a framework contract signed in 2018 for the delivery of up to 137 SaZgM 70t mil trucks. Under the framework agreement, which had a 7-year lifetime, eighty tractor units have already been ordered and delivered to the Bundeswehr. Since 2018, Rheinmetall has supplied the Bundeswehr with over 4,000 military trucks. Together with the UTF and WLS, the SaZgM 70t tractor unit forms the logistic backbone of the Bundeswehr.

India-US GE Fighter Jet Engine Deal: Indian and US authorities are working to finalise a fighter jet manufacturing deal during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the country. The deal involving US figher get manufacturer General Electric (GE) will be a government to government deal as GE is already supplying its F-404(IN) engines for India’s home grown light combat aircraft LCA Tejas manufactured by the state owned aircraft manufacturer Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.

EDGE Group High Lander Universal UTM Investment: The UAE based leading defence company, the EDGE Group Tuesday announced a strategic investment in High Lander. The Tel Aviv based High Lander is an air traffic management company which offers Universal UTM, a drone-agnostic unmanned traffic management solution. The Universal UTM provides automation, coordination, and safety much needed in increasingly crowded skies.

India-France Air Force Garuda Military Exercise: In order to improve synergy between the two air forces and enhanced understanding of each other’s processes, the Indian and French air forces are undertaking an 18-day military exercise in Jodhpur in western state of Rajasthan. This is the seventh edition of biannual war games that involves combat jets of Indian, Russian, French and British origin.

German Field Hospitals for Ukraine Military: German defence compay, Rheinmetall will soon be supplying the Ukrainian armed forces with a turnkey modern field hospital. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence awarded the €9 million order to Rheinmetall subsidiary Zeppelin Mobile Systeme GmbH (ZMS) in September 2022. The package includes training on the system. Delivery is scheduled to take place in 2023.

Just two years after the placement of the order, Rheinmetall AG CEO Armin Papperger presented the key to Hungarian Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky. The handover took place during an oath-taking ceremony of new military service volunteers of the Hungarian Defence Forces at the Petöfi Sándor Barracks in Budapest. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán also attended the ceremony. Lynx will become the backbone of Hungary’s mechanised infantry forces.

IAI’s Multi-Mission Mode Radar for Czech Republic: Israel’s state owned defence company – Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) – has supplied the Czech Republic with the first air defense Multi-Mission Radar (MMR), as part of a deal signed in December 2019 by the Ministries of Defense of both the Czech Republic and Israel, the company said on Tuesday.

Leonardo Cyber Security Academy Genoa: Italian defence company Leonardo Monday unveiled its Cyber & Security Academy, the new high-level training center established by the company to provide Defense, public administrations, critical infrastructures and businesses the skills and capabilities necessary to support the digital transition and face threats to national security.

Rheinmetall Oerlikon AESA AMMR Radar: German defence and high technology company Rheinmetall Monday unveiled the Oerlikon AMMR, the Group’s latest radar system. The Oerlikon AESA Multi-Mission Radar (AMMR) was developed entirely at Rheinmetall Italia in Rome, underscoring once again the subsidiary’s role as Rheinmetall’s radar centre of excellence. Rheinmetall says the new radar is now ready for series production.