Americas
The US Space Force is upgrading its ability to track satellites and space junk with a $90 million contract awarded to L3Harris. This project will make the Advanced Tracking and Launch Analysis System (ATLAS) faster and more accurate. The upgraded system will better monitor satellites and debris in space, helping the Space Force to detect and respond to anything that could harm US satellites. These improvements will also give the Space Force more control over its operations in space. Essentially, L3Harris will provide the Space Force with new tools to keep a closer eye on space, protect our satellites, and stay ahead of any potential threats.
Raytheon has secured a $100 million contract to perform crucial maintenance on the AN/AAS-54 electro-optical/infrared (EO/IR) system for the US Air Force’s HC-130J Combat King II aircraft. This contract involves retrofitting and repairing the AN/AAS-54 system and its subsystems, which are essential for the aircraft’s mission capabilities. The AN/AAS-54 EO/IR system is a critical component of the HC-130J Combat King II, enabling it to effectively locate and track targets, downed aircraft, or personnel in distress, even in challenging environments. This capability is vital for the HC-130J’s primary mission of personnel recovery and combat search-and-rescue operations. As part of the contract, Raytheon will address issues related to diminishing manufacturing sources, material shortfalls, obsolescence, reliability, and maintainability. This work is crucial for ensuring the continued effectiveness of the HC-130J fleet, which depends on the proper functioning of its advanced systems like the AN/AAS-54.
Middle East & Africa
The United States is continuing its airstrikes against Houthi targets in Yemen, which began on March 15, 2025. These strikes, now in their tenth consecutive day, are part of a broader strategy by the Trump administration to undermine the Houthi rebels, who pose a threat to maritime commerce and Israel.The US has targeted Houthi command centers and other facilities
Europe
Switzerland has agreed to join the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) Patriot Support Partnership (PATRIOT SP). The initiative aims to enhance security and improve the availability of spare parts for the country’s Patriot ground-based air defense systems. The partnership includes maintenance, technical support, ammunition monitoring, training and transportation services. Bern emphasizes that the initiative aligns with its neutrality policy, with the option to withdraw from the partnership if any member country becomes involved in an international armed conflict.
Asia-Pacific
The Australian Defense Force has accepted its first M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) as part of a foreign military sale with the US. The handover is part of Canberra’s national defense strategy to bolster the military’s long-range strike capabilities against current and future threats. Investment in the HIMARS totals $1 billion and includes orders for up to 42 units. To complement the incoming air defense systems, the Australian government will inaugurate the domestic production of missiles for the HIMARS later this year.