Americas
Bell Textron has selected Integris Composites to supply armor systems for the US Army’s Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program. Integris highlighted that its contribution will focus on enhancing the upcoming rotorcraft’s durability, speed, range, and payload capabilities. The new aircraft will contribute to “our nation’s warfighters have the decisive edge in any theater where they are operating,” Integris Composites President Andrew Bonham.
The US Army has awarded Lockheed Martin a contract to expand production capacity for the Patriot Advanced Capability – 3 (PAC-3) missile to 650 units annually. Lockheed emphasized that this initiative is a crucial step in meeting the growing global demand for “the world’s most advanced missile.” This year, missile production increased by 30 percent, with projections indicating a further 20 percent rise next year.
Middle East & Africa
Elbit Systems announced that it has secured contracts worth approximately $335 million to supply defense systems to a European country. The contracts, to be executed over three and a half years, include advanced PULS™? rocket launchers and accompanying missiles, as well as Hermes™? 900 unmanned aerial systems (UAS) equipped with advanced payloads. Elbit’s PULS™? launchers offer versatile and advanced operational capabilities, enabling the launch of unguided rockets, precision-guided munitions, and missiles with varying ranges. The system, which is adaptable to existing wheeled and tracked platforms, delivers significant cost savings in maintenance and training while maintaining high efficiency and meeting diverse operational needs.
Europe
Germany will deliver the sixth planned IRIS-T air defense system to Ukraine by the end of this year, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy last week. Also discussed was next year’s supply of air defense systems to Ukraine from Germany. “During the conversation, the leaders focused on other efforts needed to ensure the best possible defense and political support for Ukraine; they also coordinated joint steps for the near future,” a press release from the President of Ukraine office stated. “In particular, they agreed that the Ramstein format should be maintained.”
Asia-Pacific
China’s premier defense exhibition, Zhuhai Airshow, was headlined by the J-35A fifth-generation fighter as well as a J-15T fighter designed for catapult operations aboard aircraft carriers. The People’s Liberation Army (PLA) is a secretive organization, but it uses events like the Zhuhai Airshow to unveil new equipment for the armed forces. This applies to the J-35A, which appeared emblazoned in PLA Air Force (PLAAF) markings.
