Americas
The US Navy has announced a life service extension for 12 Arleigh Burke-class (DDG 51) guided-missile destroyers beyond their expected 35-year operability. Ships selected involve Flight I systems commissioned between 1991 and 1997, which incorporate older designs and components, particularly in their primary anti-submarine warfare helicopter support capabilities.
The Peruvian Air Force has received the first of two Beechcraft King Air 360C air ambulance aircraft for medical evacuation missions. Acquiring the jets will strengthen the country’s light transport, aeromedical evacuation, disaster response, and risk management capabilities. The aircraft is assigned to Air Group 8 in Lima and will operate from Callao Air Base to be able to reach remote areas.
Middle East 6 Africa
The The JLTV (Joint Light Tactical Vehicle), manufactured by Oshkosh Defense, has entered operational service in the IDF, as part of the effort to replace the aging Humvees with more modern and better-armored vehicles. In November 2023, it was reported that the U.S. would provide Israel with 75 JLTVs as part of the large military aid package initiated by the Biden administration. The vehicles, each valued at approximately $400,000, feature armor produced by Israeli company Plasan through its subsidiary, Plasan North America, bringing the total deal to around $30 million.
Europe
Ukraine and Lithuania have signed a memorandum of understanding to produce unmanned systems and their components, as well as electronic warfare and technological solutions. Under this defense cooperation, the two countries are also planning joint research projects and joint development of advanced technologies. Ukraine’s Minister of Strategic Industries Herman Smetanin signed the document together with Lithuania’s Minister of Defense Laurynas Kas?i?nas and his Ukrainian counterpart Rustem Umerov.
Asia-Pacific
As India eyes the prospect of more Chinese and Pakistani warships and submarines traversing the Indian Ocean, Delhi is boosting its nuclear-powered submarine fleet. India is now working on a new class of attack submarines (SSN) after the government approved $4.8 billion for the construction of an initial two 6,000-ton boats.
