Americas
Hydronalix won a $42 million contract for assets and technical support services of specialized technology supporting the Littoral Explosive Ordnance Neutralization program of record, a component of Force Design 2030, which aims to improve integrated warfighting capabilities using unmanned vehicles. The period of performance of the base award is October 24, 2024, through October 23, 2029. No funds will be obligated at the time of award. This contract was awarded as a sole-source acquisition pursuant to 15 US Code 638(r)(4). Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific, San Diego, California, is the contracting activity.
The US military carried out a significant airfield seizure exercise on the island of Palau as part of the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 25-01. The exercise, which took place from Oct. 10–11, involved the airfield seizure of Roman Tmetuchl International Airport in Palau. Phase I saw the 75th Rangers Regiment securing the airfield, a crucial first step in establishing a strategic foothold. Phase II brought the deployment of the High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) operated by the 17th Field Artillery Brigade.
Middle East & Africa
Italian firm Fincantieri has signed a memorandum of understanding with Qatari Barzan Holdings to jointly develop a short-range anti-drone radar. Dubbed “Omega360,” the program is part of broader strategic cooperation between the two countries. The deal is valued at 100 million euros ($108 million), with the first units expected to be produced by the end of 2026.
The PEGASUS aircraft, a modified Bombardier Global aircraft, has successfully completed its first test flight, marking a significant milestone for the Persistent German Airborne Surveillance System (PEGASUS) program. This modified business jet will play a crucial role in bolstering the German armed forces’ reconnaissance capabilities. The PEGASUS program is the result of a collaborative effort between three key players: HENSOLDT, Lufthansa Technik Defense, and Bombardier Defense. HENSOLDT, serving as the general contractor, is responsible for the integration of the “Kalætron Integral” signals intelligence (SIGINT) system. Lufthansa Technik Defense will handle the systems integration and aircraft certification, while Bombardier Defense supplies and modifies the Global 6000 aircraft.
Asia-Pacific
Indonesia said Thursday it drove a Chinese coast guard vessel from contested waters in the South China Sea twice in recent days, the latest move by a Southeast Asian nation against Beijing’s actions in the strategic waterway. Chinese vessels have occasionally entered Indonesia-claimed areas of the North Natuna Sea at the southern edge of the South China Sea, drawing protests from Jakarta.