Americas

The US Department of Defense has introduced a new strategy aimed at enhancing the protection of military facilities and personnel from the growing threat of drones. While the strategy itself is classified, an unclassified fact sheet details its broader scope, including expanding the Pentagon’s knowledge of emerging drone threat patterns. The strategy also emphasizes stronger collaboration with allies and industry partners to ensure the rapid, large-scale deployment of counter-drone solutions.

Northrop Grumman has been tapped to provide a significant upgrade to the US Marine Corps’ F/A-18 fleet, enhancing the aircraft’s targeting capabilities with its Advanced Tactical Data Links (ATDL) technology integrated into the LITENING targeting pods. This move marks a major leap forward in data transfer speeds, equipping Marine aviators with the ability to make decisions more swiftly and effectively in the heat of battle. The LITENING pod, a mainstay in various militaries worldwide, is an advanced electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) system designed for precision targeting and surveillance. The incorporation of ATDL elevates the pod’s capabilities by providing a secure, two-way, multi-band link for transmitting critical data, encompassing live video feeds, still imagery, and essential metadata.

Middle East & Africa

The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Tunisia of Javelin anti-tank missiles, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on 3 December 2024. The potential sale, which is worth $107.7 million, has been passed to the US Congress for final approval. Tunisia has requested to buy 184 Javelin FGM-148F missiles (including four fly-to-buy missiles) and 30 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units. Also included in the package is missile simulation round system integration and check-out; operator manuals; spare parts; indoor/outdoor trainers; and various aspects of technical, training, logistics and programme support.

Europe

The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Netherlands for AIM-120D3 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and related equipment, valued at up to $807 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of the proposed sale. The Netherlands has requested the purchase of up to 226 AIM-120D3 missiles, along with five AIM-120D3 guidance sections, an integrated test vehicle, and associated equipment. This package includes AMRAAM control sections, missile containers, support equipment, encryption devices, spare parts, software, classified documentation, and logistical services. The primary contractor for the deal will be RTX Corporation, based in Tucson, Arizona.