Boeing won a $14.2 million order against a previously issued basic ordering agreement. This order provides manufacturing, assembly and delivery of various peculiar support equipment in support of the F/A-18E/F program. Work will be performed in St. Louis, Missouri, and is expected to be completed in December 2026.
Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems won a $7.5 million deal for B-2 countermeasure receivers. This was a sole-source acquisition using justification 10 U.S. Code 2304 (c)(1), as stated in Federal Acquisition Regulation 6.301-1. This is a two-year, nine-month contract with no option periods. The performance completion date is February 1, 2026. The contracting activity is the Defense Logistics Agency Aviation, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.
Middle East & Africa
Moroccan defense website FAR-MAroc has published images of Elbit System’s PULS (Precise & Universal Launching Systems) artillery rocket systems, purchased by Morocco. Apparently, the Moroccan Army selected Tatra Trucks, a Czech vehicle manufacturer, to carry the rocket launchers – which are capable of launching multiple ammunition types to distances of up to 300 km. According to the publication, Morocco ordered the PULS launchers with Elbit’s Combat NG system, a fully-integrated modular artillery solution.
Europe
The US State Department has approved the sale of a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) to Ukraine. The potential $285 million sale includes one AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel Radar, a Fire Distribution Center, and canister launchers. Ukraine requested the Raytheon system to bolster its defenses against Russian aerial attacks, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated.
The Czech Republic has finalized negotiations to procure CV90 infantry fighting vehicles from BAE Systems Hägglunds in Örnsköldsvik. The decision builds on a memorandum inked in 2022 to purchase tracked combat vehicles from the government of Sweden. The agreement its valued $2.2 billion and will deliver 246 CV90 MkIVs in seven different variants.
Asia-Pacific
Boeing won an $9 million deal for new-build peculiar ground support equipment. Work will be performed in Mesa, Arizona, with an estimated completion date of December 31, 2027. Fiscal 2023 Foreign Military Sales (Australia) in the amount of $8,791,474 were obligated at the time of the award.
Today’s Video
WATCH: B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber in Action | Training
Rolls-Royce won a $21.5 million modification, which exercises an option for the production and delivery of eight AE1107C engines in support of the V-22 Osprey for the Navy. Work will be performed in Indianapolis, Indiana, and is expected to be completed in November 2024. Fiscal 2023 aircraft procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $21,473,824 will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.
Lockheed Martin won a $194.8 million contract for MK 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) modules and ancillary hardware in support of fiscal 2022-2027 MK 41 VLS production requirements. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $642,909,326. This contract combines purchases for the Navy (71%) and the governments of Canada (18%) and Australia (11%) under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. Work is expected to be completed by June 2027. If all options are exercised, work will continue through July 2030.
Middle East & Africa
According to Jane’s, Spain’s Escribano Mechanical and Engineering (EM&E) announced on May 22 that it has signed a contract to deliver its Guardian 30 remotely operated weapon stations (ROWSs) to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Armed Forces. A deal was inked at the beginning of this year covering 516 Guardian 30s to upgrade wheeled and tracked armoured vehicles in service with the UAE Armed Forces over an initial three-year period,
Europe
Poland is set to acquire early warning aircraft from Sweden, marking a significant step in enhancing the country’s air defense. Minister of National Defense Mariusz B?aszczak announced the decision, emphasizing its importance in fortifying Poland’s defense infrastructure. Poland’s acquisition of early warning aircraft signifies a strong commitment to bolstering its air defense. Detailed negotiations between Poland and Sweden, led by Minister B?aszczak, have been progressing well. The positive outcome of discussions held during the Northern Group Meeting in Legionowo, where Minister B?aszczak met with Swedish Minister of Defense Pale Jonson, highlights the shared dedication to enhancing defense cooperation.
Asia-Pacific
The United States said Wednesday it had reached a deal with Micronesia to extend decades-old political and security ties, forestalling Chinese efforts to build influence in the region. State Department officials said three documents were signed in Pohnpei, signaling the extension of a 20-year-old arrangement that gives the island nation security and budget guarantees.
Japan held a ceremony on Wednesday marking its planned donation of about 100 military vehicles to Ukraine, as Tokyo seeks to provide equipment that can be of broader military use than its earlier shipments of helmets and hazmat suits. In a ceremony at the Defense Ministry at which two half-ton trucks were on display, Japanese Vice Defense Minister Toshiro Ino handed a document to Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Korsunsky listing the three types of vehicles included in the donation.
Today’s Video
WATCH: The V-22 Osprey: US Most Advanced Hybrid Aircraft Ever Built
Austal USA has received a $113.9 million deal to design the US Navy Auxiliary General Ocean Surveillance Ship (T-AGOS 25). The agreement includes a $3.2 billion option for the design and construction of up to seven T-AGOS vessels. Work on the first T-AGOS will take place at various US locations in partnership with L3Harris Technologies, Thoma-Sea Marine Constructors, TAI Engineering, and Noise Control Engineering.
The Vuzix Corporation won contracts to deliver augmented reality (AR) solutions and related engineering services for two defense customers. The first agreement is with a US-based partner specializing in situational awareness and personal protection solutions for defense forces. It seeks projectors and waveguides to integrate “smart” heads-up display technology with the customer’s helmet capability.
Middle East & Africa
Iran said on Sunday it is capable of ensuring the safety of the vital Gulf waters in cooperation with neighboring countries, following maritime tensions with the United States. “The Islamic Republic of Iran and the countries south of the Persian Gulf are capable of cooperating to ensure the security of the Persian Gulf, the Strait of Hormuz, and the Sea of Oman,” Iran’s Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces, Mohammad Bagheri said on Sunday.
Europe
According to Jane’s, the Portuguese Air Force (FAP) formally activated its new transport squadron on May 20. Five Embraer KC-390 Millennium multimission transport aircraft will be operated by 506 Squadron at Beja Air Base No 11. The aircraft were acquired in August 2019 under an $894 million contract to replace the C-130H Hercules aircraft of 501 Squadron. The first aircraft, which is undergoing final certification by the Portuguese National Aeronautical Authority, will be formally received in 2023. The final aircraft is scheduled for delivery in 2027.
The UK Royal Navy (RN) has revealed plans to install the Lockheed Martin Mk 41 vertical launching system (VLS) into its five new Type 31 Inspiration-class general-purpose frigates. The fit will expand the range of missiles and capabilities the ships can deliver. The Type 31s are already being built with the foundation structural seats for four 8-Cell Mk41 Strike-Length VLS modules.
Asia-Pacific
Thailand’s Defense Technology Institute (DTI) has delivered an unknown number of locally developed 8×8 amphibious armoured personnel carriers (AAPCs) to the Royal Thai Marine Corps (RTMC). The DTI, a research and development (R&D) agency under the Thai Ministry of Defence (MoD), said in a social media post on 19 May that the vehicles were delivered during the RTMC’s Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise (CALFEX) at a Royal Thai Navy (RTN) base in Ban Chanthaklem in Chanthaburi’s Khao Kitchakut district. The DTI has named the amphibious vehicle ‘Sea Tiger’.
Today’s Video
WATCH: 4K – Embraer KC 390 – Portuguese Air Force – OPO/LPPR
Sierra Nevada won a $56 million modification for the MC-130J Airborne Mission Networking program’s low-rate initial production. This modification provides for the procurement of production kits, spares, interim-contractor support, program management, and provisioning support. Work will be performed in Centennial, Colorado, and is expected to be completed May 19, 2023. Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, is the contracting activity.
NASA’s Armstrong Flight Research Center is nearing the flight certification of a rejuvenated F/A-18D aircraft, set to play a pivotal role in tracking the supersonic X-59 and capturing stunning visuals. This aircraft, NASA 862, underwent an impressive transformation at the US Air Force Corrosion Control Facility, known as the Paint Barn, before joining NASA Armstrong’s esteemed fleet. Under the guidance of Troy Asher, Director for Flight Operations, NASA Armstrong sought to replace older models with more advanced aircraft. After careful evaluation, the F/A-18D emerged as the perfect candidate due to its modern features and availability of parts.
Middle East & Africa
Regulus Cyber, an Israeli expert in software-based GPS/GNSS security, launched the fully-functional Ring ARM-V specifically designed to protect armored vehicles, convoys and deployed troops from drone attacks, including multirotor, fixed-wing, swarm and dark drones. The company announced that the Ring ARM-V system has recently been installed, integrated and certified in an armored vehicle.
Europe
BAE Systems and Iveco Defence Vehicles have introduced the Amphibious Combat Vehicle (ACV) to international customers at a defense and security fair in Madrid, Spain. The companies displayed the platform’s base platform, the Personnel variant (ACV-P), at the event. “This is the first time the Amphibious Combat Vehicle has been shown outside the United States, and it is a point of pride that it is here in Spain, an important, long-term US and NATO ally,” BAE Systems Amphibious Programs Vice President Garrett Lacaillade said.
Asia-Pacific
The Australian government said it would provide surveillance drones and other high-tech equipment to the Philippines to boost its maritime patrol capabilities. The announcement was made following the visit to Manila of Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong to meet with her Filipino counterpart Enrique A. Manalo. The military aid package builds on the already deep and wide-ranging maritime security ties between the two allied countries, Wong said.
The Taiwanese government announced the acquisition of 18 additional M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) launchers to bolster its precision strike capabilities. The procurement is on top of the 11 launchers the island nation requested from the US in 2021, bringing the total to 29. According to Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defence, the additional order is covered by the Long-Range Precision Fire Strike System procurement project of the Taiwanese Army.
Today’s Video
WATCH: Meet the U.S. Air Force Special Ops MC-130J Commando II
Lockheed Martin won a $29.2 million modification for maintenance, additional tooling and equipment for Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) Lot 19/20. The modification brings the total cumulative face value of the contract to $1,090,980,036. Work will be performed in Orlando, Florida, and is expected to be completed by January 31, 2026.
Boeing is taking the lead in enhancing the capabilities of the B-1B bomber with its self-funded development of the Load Adaptable Modular (LAM) pylon. This game-changing innovation not only showcases Boeing’s commitment to advancing military aviation but also receives support from the United States Air Force (USAF) in the form of financial contributions towards testing. Boeing’s LAM pylon introduces a remarkable advancement for the B-1B bomber. By leveraging adjustable mounts and attach points that can be easily modified on the flightline, the LAM pylon allows for the seamless transition between different types of weapons.
Middle East & Africa
Qatar has received the fourth Al Zubarah-class corvette from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri at the company’s Muggiano shipyard. The “Semaisma” is the final corvette delivered under a $4.3 billion contract signed in 2016 for seven different surface vehicles. The latest Al Zubarah vessel was launched in March last year. The class’ first and second corvettes were delivered in 2021, while the third was handed over in 2022.
Europe
Elbit Systems has received a $305 million deal to supply Precise & Universal Launching System (PULS) artillery rocket systems to the Royal Netherlands Army. The award is part of an agreement supporting the ongoing military cooperation between the Israeli and Dutch defense ministries.
The Ukrainian military is revamping available commercial drones to help destroy Russian tanks and trenches. According to Reuters, a former IT programmer who is now with the Ukrainian Army can turn a four-rotor commercial drone into some kind of loitering munition. He said the unmanned systems bought over the counter for just $300 can be fitted with explosives to help neutralize Russian assets on the frontline.
Asia-Pacific
Spanish defense firm Indra announced Wednesday that it has begun installing a naval variant of its Lanza 3D surveillance radar on an Indian Navy warship. The Lanza 3D was developed based on the Lanza-N radar installed on the Spanish ship Juan Carlos I. It was modified to suit Indian Ocean conditions, ensuring “optimum performance” in high humidity and extreme heat conditions.
Today’s Video
WATCH: AGM-158 JASSM: A Large, Stealthy Long-Range Missile
Rockwell Collins won a $10 million modification against a previously issued basic ordering agreement (N0001919G0031). This modification provides non-recurring engineering for the development of hardware and software necessary to install Mission Computer Modernization into E-6B Block I aircraft. Work will be performed in Richardson, Texas, and is expected to be completed in February 2026.
US Air Force Airmen from the 509th Weapons Squadron recently conducted integration training at Hurlburt Field, where they tested a groundbreaking prototype known as the Pack and Transport Reloader (PATR) crane. Developed in collaboration with Fairchild Air Force Base’s innovation cell, this crane aims to enhance the capabilities of the KC-135 Stratotanker in terms of cargo loading and unloading. By retrofitting the fleet of KC-135s with the PATR crane, the Air Force can expand their operational reach while maintaining a smaller footprint.
Middle East & Africa
Rheinmetall and Elbit Systems have conducted a live-fire demonstration of an automated 155-millimeter L52 wheeled self-propelled howitzer at the Shivta desert range in southern Israel. The testing builds on a 2022 strategic cooperation deal to jointly develop, produce, and market an automated 155-millimeter wheeled howitzer. Through the partnership, Elbit’s fully-robotic artillery turret was integrated with Rheinmetall’s 155mm L52 gun and electronic components for the fire control unit and sensor suite. The weapon was then mounted onto a Rheinmetall HX 10×10 tactical military truck.
Europe
Elbit Systems has landed Greece’s first two M-346 training aircraft at the country’s recently-constructed Hellenic International Flight Training Center in Kalamata. The handover is part of a Hellenic Air Force’s program to train and familiarize pilots with the service’s modern fighter jets. The delivery also supports the Greek and Israeli defense ministries’ efforts to enhance strategic aerospace cooperation.
Denmark plans to equip its armed forces with a new mobile short-range air defense system based on Rheinmetall’s Skyranger. The Skyranger is equipped with anti-aircraft missiles and a 30-millimeter machine gun that can intercept ground-based and aerial threats at short and very short ranges. Once delivered, the turret will be mounted on the army’s Piranha 5 armored personnel carriers to maintain their mobility and protect them during combat.
Asia-Pacific
China has integrated “hidden technology” into its military drones to prevent enemies from using them to attack Beijing’s territories, according to South China Morning Post, citing a source close to the military. The device reportedly allows combat and reconnaissance drones to recognize an “electric geofence” enveloping China’s borders. When the geofence is detected, the technology will prevent Chinese-made drones from entering the country and attacking vital military and commercial assets.
Rolls Royce Marine North America won a $66.7 million deal in support of the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) for the global engineering and technical support of the Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) Freedom Variant MT30 gas turbine engines. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would not increase the cumulative value of this contract above $66,679,116. Work will be performed globally and will be defined in each delivery order. Fiscal 2023 operations and maintenance (Navy) funds, which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year, will be used for the base year delivery orders. No funding will be obligated at time of award.
In a recent incident at Kingsley Field in Klamath Falls, Oregon, a US Air Force F-15D encountered an unexpected situation during landing. During the landing on May 15, the F-15D veered off the runway and came to a halt in the Bureau of Reclamation irrigation canal located on the south side of the runway. Colonel Micah Lambert, the vice commander of the 173rd Fighter Wing, provided reassurance that the situation has been managed effectively, stating, “We don’t believe the aircraft is leaking any petroleum products based on our initial assessment of the water in the canal.” He emphasized that minimizing the environmental impact remains a top priority for the team. As a precautionary measure, absorbent booms have been placed around the aircraft to prevent the flow of fuel or other substances downstream in the event of a leakage.
Middle East & Africa
According to Israel Defense, the Greek Police has been using a “David” armored vehicle made by Israel’s Shladot in its activities along its Northern border. The David was presented in the Greek Police pavilion at the DEFEA 2023 exhibition which took place last week in Athens. The Greek Police’s “David” armored vehicles were built by Shladot utilizing the extensive knowhow and experience gained from the “Davids” used by the Israel Defense Force (IDF). The Greek “David” was tailored to police requirements, built as a 5-door SUV, unlike the IDF 3-door version. The “David” is equipped with a powerful 205 horse power engine, automatic transmission and a unique suspension system, enabling it to maneuver through mountains, forested areas and small villages.
Europe
Lockheed Martin won a $15.7 million for computer program development, shipboard testing and installation and live fire and test planning and execution in support of the Norway Program. This contract includes options which, if exercised, would bring the cumulative value of this contract to $48,201,842. This contract involves Foreign Military Sales to Norway. Work will be performed in Moorestown, New Jersey (94%); and Norway (6%) and is expected to be completed by July 2026. If all options are exercised, work will be completed by July 2026. Foreign Military Sales (Norway) funds in the amount of $15,651,498 will be obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year.
A recent missile barrage by Russia targeted a US-made Patriot air defense system in Kyiv, causing damage to the system. The extent of the damage is currently being evaluated, raising concerns about Ukraine’s defense capabilities against escalating Russian missile attacks, CNN reports. The Patriot air defense system appears to have sustained damage but remains intact. The severity of the damage will determine whether the system needs complete withdrawal or can be repaired on-site by Ukrainian forces.
Asia-Pacific
Australia will buy 78 Bushmaster protected vehicles for $106 million to replenish stockpiles sent to Ukraine for its war against Russia. Signed at Thales’ facility in Bendigo, the agreement covers the delivery of the Bushmasters in troop carrier and command variants over the next 18 months.
Today’s Video
WATCH: UK and Dutch pledge fighter jet support for Ukraine | DW News
US Hardware Supply ($12.6 million) and Worldwide Equipment ($12,3 million) each won a deal for M1A1 Abrams tank parts kits. These are three-year contracts with no option periods. This was a competitive acquisition with three offers received. The performance completion date is May 14, 2026. Using military services are Army and Marine Corps.
Computer Technology Associates won a $26.3 million for F/A-18 EA-18G Integrated Product Team Management Information System Suite consisting of multiple applications and tools supporting business operation efforts to include planning, estimation, risk management, event scheduling (including flight test events), event tracking, project execution, project monitoring and control, and reporting. Work will take place in Colorado, Texas, Arizona, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Maryland, Colorado, Oregon, California, Indiana, Florida, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Utah, Indiana. Expected completion date will be in May 2028.
Middle East & Africa
Elbit Systems has received a $21.8 million contract to supply mortar munition systems and training solutions to Montenegro. The agreement is part of the ongoing Israili government’s efforts to enhance its military cooperation with the Balkan government. Under the contract, Elbit will deliver 120-millimeter mortar munition systems compatible with 4×4 armored vehicle mounts.
Europe
Northrop Grumman has delivered key Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) components to Poland for its new medium-range air defense program. According to company vice president Rebecca Torzone, the IBCS will provide the country’s air defenders with the ability to make faster, better-informed decisions to defeat a wide variety of threats.
Romania has retired its MiG-21 fighter fleet during ceremonies at the 71st and 86th Air Bases. The MiG-21 LanceR jets embarked on their final flights at a ceremony on Monday. During the communist regime, Romania had around 400 MiG-21s. The current number is confidential, but unofficial estimates say it now stands at around 25.
Asia-Pacific
The United States Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has delivered the highly advanced SM-3 Block 2A interceptor to Japan. This collaborative effort between the two nations marks a significant milestone in bolstering their defense alliances and enhancing regional security. The delivery took place in March, and it is set to reinforce Japan’s capabilities to counter evolving ballistic missile threats. Japan’s Aegis ships, operated by the Maritime Self-Defense Force, will be equipped with the advanced SM-3 Block 2A intercept missiles. The deployment of SM-3 Block 2A missiles on Japan’s Aegis ships will take place in a sequential manner. As per the plans, the Maya and Atago-class ships, based in Yokosuka (Kanagawa Prefecture), Maizuru (Kyoto Prefecture), and Sasebo (Nagasaki Prefecture), will be among the first to receive these advanced intercept missiles.
Today’s Video
WATCH: Northrop Grumman delivers first Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS) to Poland
On May 14, 2013, the Northrop Grumman X-47B made history by completing the first-ever catapult launch of an unmanned aircraft from an aircraft carrier. The successful launch from the USS George H.W. Bush marked a major milestone in the development of unmanned aerial vehicles for military operations. The X-47B had previously conducted numerous landings and takeoffs on an aircraft carrier, but this catapult launch was the first time that the drone had been launched from a carrier using the same system used to launch manned aircraft. The successful launch demonstrated that unmanned aerial vehicles could operate alongside traditional manned aircraft in carrier-based operations.
Canada and Latvia will jointly provide combat leadership training to Ukrainian junior officers starting as early as next week, their defense minister announced Wednesday. The training, which will take place in Latvia, builds on Canadian military deployments and training throughout Britain and Europe to bolster NATO defenses and support Ukraine.
Middle East & Africa
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has canceled its $879 million deal with Airbus for 12 H225M Caracal multirole helicopters. The cancellation was confirmed by Muammar Abdulla Abushehab, defense and security industry affairs sector chief for the Tawazun council, in an exclusive interview with Breaking Defense. Abushehab stated that the UAE found it difficult to continue with the contract due to the high lifecycle cost, limitations in adapting to modular designs of future mission requirements, and the complex technical proposal. He clarified that the decision was not politically motivated, but was based on financial and technical reasons.
Europe
Ireland’s air defenses have been a topic of discussion among national security sources due to a significant gap in the country’s air defenses. The Irish Air Corps lacks an aircraft to respond to almost all incoming suspicious and threatening aircraft, and the state is also completely blind to what is in its airspace due to a complete lack of primary military radar. To fill this gap, Ireland depends on the Royal Air Force (RAF) and other countries to respond to flights. Opposition TDs have demanded an answer from Tánasite Micheál Martin and Taoiseach Leo Varadkar regarding a supposed secret deal with the RAF to police Irish skies, which has caused a ripple through the political ranks. However, Martin has denied that Ireland relies on an agreement with the British and claimed the reporting was inaccurate, while Varadkar stated that Ireland does depend on international partners to assist in national security measures. Senator Gerard Craughwell has issued proceedings in the High Court to determine if the deal exists.
The US State Department has approved the sale of 34 AN/AAQ-33 Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods and related equipment to Poland. The proposed $124.7 million sale will improve the tactical effectiveness of FA-50 fighter jets Poland is acquiring from South Korea. Warsaw has purchased 48 FA-50 light combat jets from Seoul for $13 billion, expecting the first tranche of 12 aircraft this year.
The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Slovakia of M1278A1/A2 Heavy Gun Carriers Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs), and related equipment and services for an estimated cost of $250 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today. The JLTVs will replace Soviet-era personnel carriers and improve Slovakia’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing increased mobility and enhanced protection for ground units.
Germany announced its intent to buy 60 Chinook heavy-lift helicopters from Boeing last year to replace its ageing CH-53 fleet. The package includes 140 engines including 20 spares, missile warning systems, radios, transponders, navigation systems, a suite of modifications and technical support, the Pentagon said.
Asia-Pacific
China has completed the delivery of four warships to the Pakistan Navy as part of an agreement signed in 2018. The delivery, which took place last week, reportedly signified a deepening military cooperation between Beijing and its Asian ally. Two Type 054A frigates were featured in a commissioning ceremony at the Hudong Zhonghua Shipyard in Shanghai, with Pakistan Navy chief Amjad Khan Niazi in attendance.
Today’s Video
WATCH: Sling-load! CH-47 Chinooks Carry the M777 Howitzers
Lockheed Martin won a $34.7 million modification, which provides program management, software engineering, software engineering transformation, and cyber support to develop the Beyond Line of Sight F-35 Capability. Work will be performed in Fort Worth, Texas (50%); and San Diego, California (50%), and is expected to be completed in February 2026. Fiscal 2023 research, development, test and evaluation (Air Force) funds in the amount of $200,000 will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.
Huntington-Ingalls Industries won a $9.4 million to procure material in support of planning yard services for Littoral Combat Ships. Work will be performed in San Diego, California, and is expected to be completed by December 2025. Fiscal 2023 other procurement (Navy) funding in the amount of $9,445,800 will be obligated at time of award and will not expire at the end of the current fiscal year. The Supervisor of Shipbuilding, Gulf Coast, Pascagoula, Mississippi, is the contracting activity.
Middle East & Africa
Israel’s David’s Sling air and missile defense system intercepted a rocket fired from the Gaza Strip on Wednesday afternoon. It was the system’s first operational intercept since its induction in 2017. The rocket was one of three fired at Tel Aviv as Islamic Jihad launched a barrage of projectiles toward Israel in response to an Israeli forces raid a day before, The Times of Israel wrote. The remaining two fell in open areas, including the sea.
Europe
Germany is preparing a new weapons package for Ukraine worth $2.9 billion, reportedly Berlin’s largest since Russia invaded last year, the defense ministry said Saturday. “We all hope for a rapid end to this terrible war by Russia against the Ukrainian people, but unfortunately this is not in sight,” Defense Minister Boris Pistorius said in a statement. “This is why Germany will supply all the help that it can, for as long as necessary,” he said.
In a recent announcement, Czech President Petr Pavel confirmed that the Czech Republic will hand over two SA-6 air defense systems and corresponding missiles to Ukraine. In addition, he suggested that donating Czech L-159 fighter planes to Ukraine would also be appropriate. Pavel highlighted the importance of providing Ukraine with the necessary equipment and ammunition to prepare for the decisive phase of the war. “Securing enough armored vehicles and ammunition is crucial for Ukraine,” he said, adding that “the decisive part of the battle will have to take place on the ground.”
Asia-Pacific
The Indian Air Force has completed the maiden flight of its first C295 tactical transport aircraft. The milestone was announced by aircraft manufacturer Airbus, adding that the C295 undertook a three-hour flight to assess its various onboard systems. The test was reportedly conducted in Spain late last week.
Today’s Video
WATCH: First C295 for India completes its maiden flight
aircraft carrier