Americas
The US Air Force has successfully flown an F-16 fighter jet equipped with a new electronic warfare system designed to counter advanced threats on the modern battlefield. The landmark first flight took place last month at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, marking a significant milestone for the Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite (IVEWS) program. IVEWS provides the F-16 with advanced electronic warfare capabilities, including digital radar warning and active jamming capabilities, enabling it to detect, identify, locate, and neutralize potential threats. This sophisticated suite of technologies elevates the F-16 to a “fourth generation plus” status, ensuring its relevance and effectiveness against modern adversaries. The system represents a leap forward in the F-16’s electronic warfare capabilities, bolstering its readiness to face increasingly complex aerial threats.
The US Navy has contracted General Dynamics to develop the Mining Expendable Delivery Unmanned Submarine Asset (MEDUSA) System for its submarine fleet. The deal is worth $15.9 million and includes program management, design, systems engineering, fabrication, testing, and integration through 2026. MEDUSA is a mining system that uses compact-size, expendable unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV). It is designed to be deployed from a submarine via torpedo tubes while integrating various payloads.
Middle East & Africa
Gilat Satellite Networks Ltd., an Israeli company specializing in satellite networking technology, solutions, and services, recently announced the award of multiple contracts from US security agencies valued at over $9 million. The US Department of Defense awarded Gilat’s U.S.-based subsidiary, DataPath, a contract exceeding $4 million for DKET 3421 terminals. These portable SATCOM hubs are designed to provide the flexibility, capacity, connectivity, and control needed to ensure mission success worldwide. Deliveries are expected during the first half of 2025.
Europe
The US State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Poland of Mobile Ground Control Approach Systems and related elements of logistics and program support for an estimated cost of $105 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale. The Government of Poland has requested to buy mobile Ground Control Approach (GCA-2000) systems, which consist of ultra high frequency radios; AN/UPX interrogators; radio navigation equipment; test equipment; precision navigation; spare and repair parts; consumables; accessories; warranties; publications and technical documentation; personnel training and training support; studies and surveys; US Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support.
Asia-Pacific
The US Army has awarded Sikorsky a $1.24 billion contract modification for foreign military sales of UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters. The aircraft will be delivered to Australia, Brazil, Greece, Sweden, and Thailand, with work expected to be completed by December 31, 2027.
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