Americas
The US Marine Corps has acquired its first MQ-9 unmanned air vehicle (UAV) and assigned it to VMU-1. The transfer took place at MCAS Yuma, Arizona on August 30 and the aircraft is currently operated by the contractor.
The US Navy has awarded BAE Systems a $26 million contract for Identification Friend-or-Foe (IFF) spares for the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye aircraft. Under the contract, BAE Systems will provide Beamforming Networks (BFNs), an integral part of antenna control for the AN/APX-122A IFF Interrogator system, onboard the carrier-capable tactical aircraft.
Middle East & Africa
During the last few weeks, the US has removed its most advanced air defense system, the Terminal High Altitude Air Defense (THAAD) system, as well as Patriot missile batteries from Saudi Arabia. Spokesmen for the Pentagon and the Saudi Defense Ministry confirmed the removal of the air defense systems. According to AP, images taken on Friday by satellite imagery company Planet Labs showed that the area of the air base where the systems were previously located is now empty, and there is no activity of any kind.
Europe
Greece has ordered six more Rafale fighters, bring the total number ordered to 24. The announcement was made by French Defense Minister Florence Parly. It is said that the fighters ordered are the F3R variant.
Ukrainian Zorya-Mashproekt Gas Turbine Research and Development Complex, a state-owned enterprise inked a contract with India’s Goa Shipyard Limited for supply of two latest generation M7H2 engines to power warships of the country’s Navy. The turbo-power units are to be installed in new multi-purpose frigates, which will soon be built at the Indian shipyard.
Asia-Pacific
North Korea’s state-run media disclosed that the country has tested a new type of long-range cruise missile on September 11 and 12. Information from North Korea says the new weapon can fly for more than two hours and a range of over 1,500 km.
Today’s Video
Watch: How Do Tomahawk Cruise Missile Work?
