Americas
Silent Arrow has clinched a $1.8-million Direct to Phase II SBIR contract from the US Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) to build and test six CLS-200 drones. The CLS-200 is an unmanned aerial system (UAS) known as a Contested Logistics System designed to carry 227 kilograms over 230 miles/370 kilometers.
The US Navy has commissioned the 14th Freedom-class littoral combat ship, the USS Nantucket (LCS 27), in Boston, Massachusetts. The event followed the vessel’s acceptance trials in 2022 and delivery in July 2024. Lockheed Martin and Fincantieri Marinette Marine began construction in 2017 as part of the US Department of Defense’s objective to modernize its warship fleet.
Middle East & Africa
European powers and the US have submitted a resolution censuring Iran for its poor cooperation with the UN nuclear watchdog, diplomats told AFP on Wednesday, as Tehran warned of a “proportionate” response if it passes. As a board meeting by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) kicked off in Vienna, diplomats told AFP that Paris, Berlin, London and Washington formally tabled a censure motion critical of Iran.
Europe
NATO took control of the Aegis Ashore Missile Defense System (AAMDS) in Redzikowo, northern Poland, earlier this month. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk used the November 13 activation ceremony to announce his country would boost investments in domestic artillery ammunition production capacities amid Russia’s continuing invasion of neighboring Ukraine.
Asia-Pacific
Kuala Lumpur has awarded Italian defense provider Leonardo a contract to lease helicopters to the Malaysian Armed Forces. Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin confirmed during a closing remark at the bill panel’s hearing that the 16 billion Malaysian ringgit ($3.5 billion) deal will distribute 28 helicopters for 15 years, local news agency Utusan reported. Under the framework agreement, Leonardo will supply 12 aircraft for the Royal Malaysian Air Force, four for the Maritime Enforcement Agency, and two for the Navy.
