Articles tagged with "military-technology"
597 attack drones, 26 missiles: Russia's air strike on Ukraine kills six
Russia launched a massive air strike against Ukraine on July 12, 2025, deploying 597 attack drones—including over half identified as Iranian-designed "shahed" loitering munitions—and 26 cruise missiles. The attacks targeted multiple regions, including Kharkiv, Sumy, Lviv, Bukovyna, and Dnipropetrovsk, resulting in at least six deaths and dozens of injuries. Notably, two fatalities in the Chernivtsi region were caused by falling drone debris, while other casualties occurred from missile strikes in Dnipropetrovsk and Sumy. Despite the scale of the assault, Ukraine’s air defense forces successfully intercepted and destroyed 319 drones and 25 cruise missiles, mitigating further damage. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky praised the effectiveness of his country’s air defenses and called for tougher secondary sanctions against entities aiding Russia’s drone production and oil profiteering. He emphasized the need for more air defense systems and investments
dronesattack-dronesair-defensemilitary-technologymissile-interceptionkamikaze-dronesdrone-warfareChina's self-propelled howitzers deliver precision fire at high-altitude
China recently conducted a live-fire exercise using its PCL-181 155mm wheeled self-propelled howitzer in high-altitude, mountainous terrain likely near the Tibetan Plateau or Xinjiang region. This test demonstrated the system’s ability to deliver precise fire and maintain mobility under harsh conditions such as thin air, cold weather, and steep slopes—factors that traditionally challenge artillery performance due to impacts on engines and ballistics. The PCL-181, introduced in 2019 by NORINCO, is a modern, truck-mounted artillery system firing NATO-standard shells up to 25 miles, capable of speeds over 56 mph and an operational range exceeding 373 miles. Its advanced features include semi-automatic loading, digital targeting, satellite navigation, and rapid repositioning, enabling quick, accurate strikes with reduced crew fatigue. The deployment of the PCL-181 in regions bordering India reflects China’s strategic focus on enhancing military readiness following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. Unlike traditional to
robotmilitary-technologyautonomous-systemsdigital-communicationsprecision-targetingsatellite-navigationsemi-automatic-loadingHumanoid robot soldiers could cause 'indiscriminate killings': China's PLA
China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has issued a cautionary analysis regarding the deployment of humanoid robot soldiers, emphasizing the urgent need for ethical and legal frameworks to govern their use in warfare. Published in the PLA Daily, the article highlights that while humanoid robots offer tactical advantages—such as mechanical dexterity and the ability to perform complex military tasks beyond current unmanned systems—their use raises serious moral concerns. Specifically, the PLA warns that these robots could cause “indiscriminate killings and accidental deaths,” violating fundamental ethical principles like Asimov’s First Law of Robotics, which prohibits robots from harming humans. The PLA authors argue that military humanoid robots should be designed to obey commands, respect human life, and autonomously prevent excessive or unlawful violence. Despite their potential, humanoid robots are viewed as complementary tools rather than replacements for existing unmanned systems, due to their high cost and technological complexity. China is actively advancing in this field, with domestic tech firms unveiling versatile humanoid
robothumanoid-robotsmilitary-technologyrobotics-ethicsautonomous-weaponsPLArobot-soldiersRussia's satellite games are testing the boundaries of space deterrence
The article discusses recent developments involving Russia’s satellite Kosmos-2558, which has been shadowing a classified US reconnaissance satellite, USA 326, since 2022. On June 28, 2025, Kosmos-2558 deployed a smaller subsatellite (Object C, NORAD ID 64627) into a nearly identical orbit, raising concerns among US national security and space experts about potential space-based weapons or anti-satellite (ASAT) capabilities. While no aggressive actions have been observed, analysts speculate that the subsatellite may be maneuverable and possibly armed with kinetic ASAT technology capable of disabling or destroying other satellites. This move is viewed as either a deliberate show of strength or a covert test of space-based countermeasures, signaling a possible escalation in the militarization of low Earth orbit. The article highlights Russia’s history of similar behavior, noting previous “inspector” satellites (Kosmos-2519, 2542) that deployed subsatellites firing project
satellite-technologyanti-satellite-weaponsspace-defensemilitary-technologyspace-warfarespace-securitymaneuverable-satellitesTurkey’s new airborne laser zaps heat-seeking missile in first test
Turkey’s defense firm Aselsan has successfully tested its YILDIRIM-100 Directed Infrared Countermeasure (DIRCM) system, designed to detect, track, and neutralize infrared-guided air-to-air and surface-to-air missiles using high-energy, multi-band laser beams. The live-fire trials demonstrated the system’s autonomous capability to identify incoming missile threats and disrupt their seeker heads, forcing missiles off course before impact. The YILDIRIM-100 offers 360-degree hemispherical coverage, can engage multiple simultaneous threats, and features a twin-head turret with fast-tracking sensors and a high-power laser. It integrates with ultraviolet and infrared missile warning systems, boasts low power consumption, reduced size and weight, and an open architecture compatible with NATO standards, making it suitable for both new and legacy aircraft in high-threat environments. Aselsan is also developing an advanced variant, the YILDIRIM-300, tailored for Turkey’s fifth-generation KAAN fighter jet, which is expected to enter
energylaser-technologydirected-infrared-countermeasuremissile-defensemilitary-technologyairborne-systemshigh-energy-lasersIs the Ekranoplan back? China might be reviving a Soviet-era legend
Leaked images suggest that China is developing a modern version of the Soviet-era Ekranoplan, a wing-in-ground effect (WIG) vehicle designed to fly just above the water’s surface by using a cushion of compressed air for efficient low-altitude flight. Nicknamed the “Bohai Sea Monster,” this craft was spotted near the Bohai Sea and appears similar in size to China’s AG600 flying boat. The original Soviet Ekranoplans were high-speed amphibious vehicles used for troop transport, anti-ship warfare, and could reach speeds up to 310 mph. The Chinese version may employ composite materials for stealth and weight advantages and could serve roles such as search and rescue, personnel recovery, light cargo transport, anti-submarine operations, and sea control in coastal zones. The U.S. is reportedly developing a comparable WIG aircraft called the “Liberty Lifter,” aimed at rapid logistics across the Pacific while remaining below radar detection. Although details about China’s WIG
materialsaerospace-technologycomposite-materialsmilitary-technologywing-in-ground-effectstealth-technologyaviation-innovationDrones obey F-16, F-15 pilots in USAF’s most advanced live tests yet
The US Air Force recently achieved a significant milestone in next-generation air combat by successfully demonstrating real-time manned-unmanned teaming during a high-fidelity training exercise at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. In this test, pilots flying F-16C Fighting Falcon and F-15E Strike Eagle jets each controlled two semi-autonomous XQ-58A Valkyrie drones, marking one of the most advanced operational evaluations of autonomous collaborative platforms (ACPs) to date. These low-cost, runway-independent drones are designed to operate with high autonomy under human supervision, performing missions such as strike, surveillance, and electronic warfare in contested environments, thereby reducing pilot workload and increasing mission survivability while maintaining ethical control over lethal effects. Developed by Kratos Defense, the XQ-58A Valkyrie serves as a leading testbed for Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programs, featuring a combat radius over 2,000 nautical miles and modular payload capabilities. Unlike traditional UAVs, these
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologymanned-unmanned-teamingartificial-intelligenceair-combat-systemsdefense-roboticsUS Air Force to fly F-22 Raptors with first 'loyal wingman' drones
The US Air Force is set to enhance its fleet of F-22 Raptor stealth fighters by integrating them with "loyal wingman" drones, marking a significant advancement in manned-unmanned teaming capabilities. Beginning in Fiscal Year 2026, the Crewed Platform Integration (CPI) program will retrofit up to 142 combat-ready F-22s with tablet-based control kits, enabling pilots to command Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) drones in real time during missions. These control systems, likely utilizing the secure Inter-Flight Data Link (IFDL), will allow seamless communication between the F-22 and its drone wingmen, enhancing operational flexibility and lethality. Parallel to this, the Air Force is investing $870 million in FY26 to develop and procure an initial fleet of 100 to 150 CCA drones, with plans to expand to over 1,000 air vehicles in future increments. Prototype drones under development include General Atomics’ YFQ-42A and And
robotdronesmilitary-technologyautonomous-systemsunmanned-aerial-vehiclesdefense-technologycollaborative-combat-aircraftUS fears Iran could use mine-loaded vessels to choke Strait of Hormuz
US intelligence has assessed that Iran may be preparing to block the Strait of Hormuz by deploying naval mines on vessels in the Persian Gulf, following Israel’s missile strikes on Iranian military and nuclear sites in mid-June 2025. Although the mines were not deployed in the water, the preparations appeared deliberate and credible, raising concerns about potential disruption to a critical maritime chokepoint through which nearly 20% of the world’s oil supply passes. The US detected the mine loading via satellite and human intelligence but remains uncertain about the timing or current status of the mines on Iranian ships. In response to the strikes, Iran’s parliament passed a symbolic resolution supporting the closure of the Strait, reflecting domestic pressure, though the final decision rests with Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, which has not acted. Historically, Iran has threatened but never executed a closure of the strait. The US maintains naval presence through its Fifth Fleet based in Bahrain and credits recent operations, including Operation Midnight Hammer, with preserving freedom of navigation
energymaritime-securitynaval-minesStrait-of-Hormuzoil-supplymilitary-technologygeopolitical-riskUS Army develops 50kW laser-mounted tank to zap drones 5 miles away
The US Army has successfully demonstrated a 50-kilowatt (kW) class solid-state laser mounted on a Stryker A1 8×8 armored vehicle, known as the DE M-SHORAD “Guardian” system, during a live-fire exercise at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. This Directed Energy Maneuver-Short-Range Air Defense system integrates high-energy laser technology with traditional kinetic air-defense assets to counter aerial threats such as unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), rotary-wing aircraft, and incoming rockets or artillery shells. The laser’s precision thermal effects, guided by advanced electro-optical/infrared sensors and Ku-band radar, enable autonomous target tracking and rapid engagement up to five miles away, marking the Army’s first operational deployment of a mobile high-energy laser weapon. The exercise, led by the 4th Battalion, 60th Air Defense Artillery Regiment and the Army Rapid Capabilities and Critical Technologies Office (RCCTO), focused on integrating the laser system into existing
energydirected-energy-weaponslaser-technologymilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-systemsbattery-technologydefense-systemsFrance’s drone-killer gun fires up to take down UAV swarms in seconds
France’s new Rapidfire Land air defense system, developed by Thales and KNDS France in collaboration with the French Air and Space Force, is designed to counter modern aerial threats including drone swarms, light aircraft, helicopters, and rocket, artillery, and mortar (RAM) attacks. Central to the system is a 40mm Cased Telescoped Cannon, originally created for the Jaguar armored vehicle, which can carry 140 ready-to-fire rounds, enabling rapid engagement of multiple targets without reloading. A key upcoming feature is the integration of A3B airburst ammunition, set to become operational by 2027, which explodes mid-air to release tungsten sub-projectiles over a wide area, enhancing effectiveness against small and fast-moving threats. The Rapidfire Land system is semi-automated, requiring only two operators to manage weapon engagement and firing, and includes an advanced fire control system that continuously updates target locations for precise tracking and engagement up to 4 kilometers. It is offered in two
robotautonomous-weaponsdrone-defensemilitary-technologyair-defense-systemautomationadvanced-ammunitionPutin escalates hypersonic missile production amid US-Iran-Israel war
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered the serial production of the Oreshnik hypersonic intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) amid escalating tensions linked to the US-Iran-Israel conflict. The Oreshnik, unveiled in November 2024 and operationally tested in Ukraine, is a road-mobile, solid-fueled missile with an estimated range of 5,500 km (3,415 miles) and speeds exceeding Mach 10. It can carry both conventional and nuclear warheads, including multiple or maneuverable reentry vehicles designed to penetrate missile defenses, and boasts high precision with a circular error probable of 10 to 20 meters. This missile expands Russia’s strike capabilities following its 2019 withdrawal from the INF Treaty and is seen as a counter to US long-range precision fire deployments in Europe and Asia. Putin framed the missile’s production as part of Russia’s 2027–2036 State Armament Program, emphasizing modernization across all military branches, including upgrades to the nuclear
materialsenergymilitary-technologyhypersonic-missilesmissile-guidance-systemsdefense-technologystrategic-weaponsThales turns drones into electronic spies with 11-pound EW payload
Thales has developed a lightweight electronic warfare (EW) payload weighing under 11 pounds (5 kg) and consuming less than 40 watts, designed for integration with small drones, including tethered and free-flying unmanned aerial systems (UAS). Unveiled at the 2025 Paris Air Show, this compact sensor system enables frontline forces to autonomously detect, locate, and geolocate enemy radio-frequency (RF) emitters over tens of miles. It operates passively, collecting intelligence without emitting detectable signals, which is crucial for stealthy surveillance in contested electromagnetic environments. The system is user-friendly, requiring minimal training, and addresses a capability gap by extending EW tools to conventional maneuver units, supporting distributed operations, electronic order of battle generation, and battlefield spectrum management. The payload was developed under a proof-of-concept contract awarded by France’s Defence Innovation Agency (AID) after a competitive European selection process and has been successfully tested by multiple French defense units in land and sea scenarios
droneselectronic-warfareunmanned-aerial-systemsradio-frequency-detectionmilitary-technologyautonomous-sensorselectronic-surveillanceUS Army unleashes fusion-powered jammers, smart radar to kill drones
The U.S. Army has initiated Project Fly Trap at Germany’s Hohenfels Training Area to field-test advanced counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) designed for frontline infantry use rather than fixed installations. This initiative aims to provide infantry squads with portable, versatile drone defense tools, including fusion-powered jammers, smart radars, and wearable detection devices. Systems such as the EchoShield cognitive radar mounted on Stryker vehicles deliver real-time drone detection and location updates directly to soldiers’ Nett Warrior devices, enhancing situational awareness without cumbersome equipment. Foot soldiers are equipped with devices like Pit Bull jammers and Wingman detectors, while some troops integrate the Smartshooter SMASH 2000L attachment on their M4 carbines to simultaneously engage drones and ground threats. The exercise incorporates layered detection methods, combining acoustic sensors (Titan, Skyview), portable radar, and acoustic panels (Squarehead) to create overlapping coverage for tracking and neutralizing drone threats. British forces from the Royal Yorkshire
energyIoTradar-technologydrone-defensemilitary-technologywearable-techcounter-UAS-systemsChinese military unveils mosquito-sized drones for battlefield missions
China’s National University of Defence Technology (NUDT) has developed a mosquito-sized drone designed primarily for covert military operations such as surveillance and reconnaissance in complex or sensitive environments. The drone mimics insect flight with two flapping leaflike wings and features three hair-thin legs for perching or landing, enabling it to operate discreetly in urban combat, search and rescue, or electronic surveillance scenarios. Its extremely compact size and advanced integration of power systems, control electronics, and sensors make it difficult to detect, though miniaturizing these components presents significant engineering challenges. This development reflects a broader global trend toward micro-UAVs, with countries like the U.S. and Norway also investing in similar technologies. For instance, Norway’s “Black Hornet” microdrone is already in use for close-range scouting, and its latest version boasts improved durability, range, and battery life. Beyond military uses, microdrones hold promise in various civilian fields, including medical applications like surgery and drug delivery, as
robotdronemicro-UAVmilitary-technologysurveillancereconnaissanceminiaturizationUS firms unveil sixth-gen F-47's wingmen drones at Paris Air Show
At the 2025 Paris Air Show, US defense firms Anduril Industries and General Atomics unveiled full-scale models of their autonomous loyal wingmen drones—YFQ-44A "Fury" and YFQ-42A respectively—designed to operate alongside the sixth-generation F-47 fighter jets currently under development by Boeing for the US Air Force. These drones, part of the Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, are expected to have a combat radius exceeding 700 nautical miles and will be capable of air-to-air combat, reconnaissance, and other missions to extend the operational range and capabilities of manned aircraft. The Air Force plans to make a production decision by 2026, with around 1,000 drones operational by 2029, complementing over 185 F-47 fighters ordered for delivery in the 2030s. The development of these autonomous drones reflects a strategic focus on maintaining air superiority in the Indo-Pacific region amid rising tensions
robotautonomous-dronesmilitary-technologydefense-innovationair-combatunmanned-aerial-vehiclesUS-Air-ForceUS taps ‘struggling’ Boeing to turn dead F-16s into supersonic drones
Boeing has been awarded a $10.2 million contract modification, part of a $318.7 million effort, by the US Air Force to convert retired F-16 fighter jets into QF-16 full-scale aerial target drones. These supersonic drones will replace the aging QF-4 Phantoms, enhancing the realism of missile testing against modern fourth-generation aircraft. The work, conducted primarily at Boeing’s St. Louis avionics factory, involves installing telemetry, scoring systems, flight-termination safety gear, and uncrewed avionics. The Air Force plans to operate up to 210 QF-16s from Jacksonville, Florida, integrating them into the fleet by December 2026. This program continues a longstanding practice of converting manned fighters into uncrewed targets for live-fire exercises dating back to the 1960s. This contract win comes amid significant challenges for Boeing, which is facing scrutiny over recent safety incidents, including a fatal 2025 crash of
robotdronesaerospaceavionicsunmanned-systemsmilitary-technologyBoeingUS brings out rare nuclear sniffer jet amid Iran-Israel war
The U.S. Air Force has deployed its rare WC-135R "Constant Phoenix" aircraft, known as the "nuclear sniffer," amid escalating tensions between Iran and Israel, particularly following reports of Israeli strikes on Iranian nuclear sites and Tehran’s threats of retaliation. The WC-135R is the only airborne platform globally dedicated to atmospheric collection missions under the Limited Nuclear Test Ban Treaty of 1963. Operated by the 45th Reconnaissance Squadron and supported by the Air Force Technical Applications Center, the aircraft is equipped with specialized sensors and sampling devices to detect radioactive particles and gases, enabling the U.S. to monitor nuclear detonations or radiological incidents worldwide. The WC-135R's capabilities include flying at altitudes up to 40,000 feet with a range exceeding 4,000 nautical miles, allowing it to conduct extended surveillance missions over diverse regions. Historically, the Constant Phoenix series has played a critical role in nuclear monitoring since the Cold War, including detecting Soviet nuclear
energynuclear-detectionairborne-surveillanceatmospheric-samplingmilitary-technologyradiological-monitoringnuclear-test-ban-treatyUK Air Force deploys first-ever combat drone with 5,750-mile range
The Royal Air Force (RAF) has officially inducted the Protector RG Mk1 drone, marking the UK's first Remotely Piloted Air System (RPAS) certified to operate across all classes of domestic airspace. This new platform replaces the older MQ-9A Reaper with the more advanced MQ-9B SkyGuardian, offering enhanced endurance, intelligence gathering, and precision strike capabilities. The Protector can operate for over 30 hours at altitudes up to 40,000 feet and has a range exceeding 5,750 miles, enabling it to patrol entire continents without landing. It carries advanced weaponry, including 500lb Paveway IV laser-guided bombs and Brimstone 3 missiles, and integrates sophisticated sensors such as the Lynx Multi-mode Radar and electro-optical/infrared suites. The drone’s certification for safe operation within civilian airspace, enabled by GA-ASI’s Detect and Avoid System, represents a significant advancement over legacy platforms, allowing it to operate in
robotdroneunmanned-aerial-vehiclemilitary-technologysurveillanceremote-pilotingaerospaceSpotify’s Daniel Ek just bet bigger on Helsing, Europe’s defense tech darling
Spotify CEO Daniel Ek has led a €600 million investment round in Helsing, a Munich-based defense technology company now valued at €3 billion, making it one of Europe’s most valuable private firms. Helsing, founded four years ago, specializes in AI-driven battlefield visualization software that integrates data from military sensors, radars, and weapons systems to provide real-time, intuitive situational awareness across various military units. The company has expanded beyond software to develop strike drones, aircraft, and unmanned mini submarines aimed at enhancing naval surveillance. This investment reflects a broader European push to build strategic autonomy in defense amid growing geopolitical tensions, particularly following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and shifting U.S. defense policies under former President Trump. European governments are increasingly prioritizing digital and AI-driven military capabilities, moving away from traditional hardware like planes and tanks. Helsing’s funding round, backed by investors including Lightspeed Ventures, Accel, and Saab, is part of a larger defense tech boom in Europe, signaling a shift toward self
robotdefense-technologyAIdronesunmanned-vehiclesmilitary-technologysurveillance-systemsUS hypersonic aircraft to soar at Mach 5+ with new upgraded engines
The U.S. aerospace company Ursa Major has secured a $32.9 million contract to supply 16 upgraded Hadley H13 rocket engines for Stratolaunch’s Talon-A hypersonic test vehicle over several years. These new engines are designed to be more reusable, supporting more flight starts and thus reducing the cost per test. The H13 engine is an evolution of the existing Hadley engine, featuring advanced metals and an oxygen-rich staged combustion cycle that provides higher thrust (5,000 lbf) and longer operational lifespans. This upgrade aims to enhance Talon-A’s performance and durability, facilitating more frequent and cost-effective hypersonic flight tests. Talon-A is a reusable hypersonic vehicle capable of flying at speeds exceeding Mach 5 and is air-launched from Stratolaunch’s large carrier aircraft. It serves as a Pentagon test platform for military hypersonic technologies and recently completed its second successful Mach 5+ flight test in May 2025. The
energyaerospacehypersonic-technologyrocket-enginespropulsion-systemsreusable-enginesmilitary-technologyIran claims it confused Israel’s defenses in Monday’s missile strike
On Monday, Iran launched a significant missile strike targeting Israeli cities including Tel Aviv and Haifa, resulting in the destruction of residential buildings, damage to infrastructure such as a power plant near Haifa’s port, and casualties with at least five dead and over 100 wounded. The attacks were reportedly in retaliation for Israel’s earlier airstrikes on Iranian nuclear and ballistic missile facilities, which killed key Iranian military leaders and caused substantial damage. Iran’s Revolutionary Guard claimed to have employed a “new method” that confused Israel’s missile defense systems into targeting each other, achieving successful hits despite Israel’s advanced technology. Israel has not officially commented on the missile strikes but has previously acknowledged vulnerabilities in its defense systems. The conflict has escalated rapidly, with Israel continuing to target Iranian military and Revolutionary Guard command centers, resulting in heavy Iranian casualties—over 220 killed and more than 1,200 injured, mostly civilians according to Iranian sources. Iran has vowed major retaliation, warning of opening “the gates of hell.”
energymissile-defensemilitary-technologyhypersonic-missilespower-plantregional-conflictdefense-systemsIran's nuclear, military sites hit by 200 Israeli jets, IDF claims
Israel launched a large-scale airstrike against Iran on Thursday night and Friday morning, deploying over 200 fighter jets to target more than 100 nuclear and military sites, including the Natanz nuclear facility. The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) claimed the strikes hit the "heart" of Iran’s nuclear program, aiming to disrupt Tehran’s production of enriched uranium, which Israel says is bringing Iran closer to developing nuclear weapons. Iranian state media reported significant casualties, including the deaths of Hossein Salami, chief of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps, and six nuclear scientists, though these claims have not been independently verified. Iran denied any radiation increase at Natanz and stated that the Bushehr nuclear power plant was not targeted. The strikes occurred amid ongoing nuclear negotiations between the US and Iran, with the sixth round scheduled in Muscat, Oman. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) recently accused Iran of breaching its non-proliferation obligations by failing to disclose details about undeclared nuclear material
energynuclear-energymilitary-technologydronesdefense-systemsuranium-enrichmentMiddle-East-conflictSecret SONGBOW: World-first 400kW laser from US to fry drones in blink
The US Navy has initiated the highly classified SONGBOW program to develop a groundbreaking 400-kilowatt laser weapon system capable of destroying drones, missiles, and other aerial threats mid-air. The Department of Defense awarded a $29.9 million contract to Coherent Aerospace & Defense to design, integrate, and test this advanced directed-energy subsystem for deployment on naval vessels and potentially land platforms. The system will combine multiple 50-kilowatt laser modules into a single, high-powered beam with precision beam control, enabling higher power output without sacrificing accuracy or beam quality. This represents a significant advancement compared to existing naval laser systems, which typically operate between 30 and 100 kilowatts. The SONGBOW laser aims to enhance the Navy’s layered defense strategy by providing a rapid, cost-effective response to evolving threats such as drone swarms and hypersonic missiles, which can overwhelm traditional missile defenses like the Aegis Combat System. Coherent Aerospace & Defense, experienced in high-energy lasers and
energydirected-energy-weaponslaser-technologymilitary-technologydefense-systemshigh-power-lasersfiber-lasersUS unleashes smart rifle scopes that shoot enemy drones on their own
The US Army has begun deploying the SMASH 2000L, an AI-enabled smart rifle scope developed by Israeli defense firm Smart Shooter, designed to counter small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS). This advanced fire control system integrates electro-optical sensors, computer vision, and proprietary target acquisition software to detect, lock on, and track small aerial targets such as quadcopters or fixed-wing drones. The system only permits the rifle to fire when a guaranteed hit is calculated, effectively eliminating human error in timing and enabling soldiers to engage drones with high precision. The SMASH 2000L was recently demonstrated during Project Flytrap, a multinational live-fire exercise in Germany, where US soldiers successfully used it mounted on M4A1 carbines. The SMASH 2000L is a lighter, more compact evolution of earlier SMASH variants already in use by NATO partners and combat forces, weighing about 2.5 pounds and fitting standard Picatinny rails. It offers real-time image processing
robotartificial-intelligencesmart-rifle-scopesdrone-defensemilitary-technologycomputer-visionautonomous-targetingUS Air Force reveals new nuclear cruise missile for B-21, B-52 planes
The US Air Force has unveiled the AGM-181A Long-Range Standoff (LRSO) missile, a new nuclear-armed cruise missile developed by Raytheon to replace the aging AGM-86B Air-Launched Cruise Missile. Designed to arm the B-21 Raider stealth bomber and upgraded B-52 Stratofortress, the LRSO features advanced stealth capabilities, resilience against electronic warfare, and precise navigation to operate effectively in contested environments. Armed with the W80-4 thermonuclear warhead, the missile is optimized for low observability, autonomous threat avoidance, and adaptive targeting, enabling it to penetrate advanced air defenses and strike high-value targets from standoff distances. The LRSO is part of a broader integrated strike architecture involving space-based sensors, command-and-control systems, and potentially classified escort aircraft, aimed at enhancing US nuclear deterrence amid growing strategic challenges from Russia and China. Its standoff range offers flexible deterrent options, including forward deployment and mission recall, which are critical for escalation control during crises. Flight testing is underway under secrecy, with operational deployment expected in the latter half of the decade. The program is projected to cost $16 billion for over 1,000 missiles plus $7 billion for lifecycle support, with a unit cost of about $14 million. Plans for a conventional variant have been dropped, leaving the AGM-158 JASSM family to fulfill non-nuclear strike roles. The LRSO addresses a crucial gap in US nuclear capabilities and underscores continued American resolve in great power competition.
energymilitary-technologymissile-technologynuclear-weaponsstealth-technologyaerospace-engineeringdefense-systemsUS Air Force's new unit to test drone and fighter jet coordination
The U.S. Air Force has officially established the Experimental Operations Unit (EOU) within the 53rd Wing at Nellis Air Force Base, upgrading it from a detachment to a full squadron-equivalent unit. The EOU’s primary mission is to rapidly develop and operationalize next-generation air combat concepts, focusing on the integration of uncrewed systems like the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) with manned fighter jets. This initiative supports the Department of the Air Force’s goal to deploy the CCA under Increment 1 by the end of the decade, advancing manned-unmanned teaming to enhance airpower capabilities. The EOU leads efforts to simulate, test, and validate tactics that enable coordinated operations between crewed fighters (such as F-35s and F-22s) and autonomous drones, which leverage AI for missions including electronic warfare, surveillance, communications relay, and strike roles. The CCA concept allows a single pilot to control multiple drones, increasing combat power, survivability, and reducing pilot risk. This approach is critical for countering the growing drone capabilities of strategic competitors like China and Russia. The unit employs both virtual simulations and live-flight exercises, collaborating with centers at Nellis AFB to refine human-machine teamwork, inform training programs, and develop deployment strategies. The creation of the EOU represents a strategic shift from platform-centric warfare to a capability-focused, networked, and adaptive force structure. By emphasizing flexible integration of autonomous systems with human control, the Air Force aims to build a more resilient and responsive joint force capable of addressing evolving threats across diverse mission environments. The EOU’s work is foundational to operationalizing future air combat systems that are affordable, scalable, and tactically effective from the outset.
robotautonomous-systemsdronesmilitary-technologyAI-in-defenseunmanned-aerial-vehiclesmanned-unmanned-teamingUS Army creates 3D-printed skin to heal combat wounds, fight bugs
materialsbioprintingbiomaterialsbiomedical-technologies3D-printingmilitary-technologytissue-engineeringPorton Man: Humanoid robot to test chemical gear for US Army in real-world conditions
robothumanoid-robotchemical-testingmilitary-technologyroboticsprotective-gearadvanced-roboticsBlack Hawk successor: US virtually flies tiltrotor aircraft of future
robotIoTdigital-twinvirtual-prototypeaviation-technologytiltrotormilitary-technologyUS Air Force may deploy student-made robot snake to scare wildlife
robotAir-Forcewildlife-managementstudent-innovationroboticsenvironmental-solutionsmilitary-technologyNew thermobaric robot tank burns enemies in half-a-mile range
robotunmanned-ground-vehiclethermobaricmilitary-technologydrone-warfareelectric-motorsbattlefield-innovationChina's aerial mothership can launch 100 drones over 4,500 miles
robotdronesUAVmilitary-technologyaerial-warfareChinadefense-technologyLiên Hợp Quốc bàn về quản lý vũ khí AI và 'robot sát thủ'
robotAIautonomous-weaponsUNmilitary-technologyinternational-regulationsdefense-spendingNhóm giảng viên ứng dụng AI sáng chế robot chiến trường
robotAIautonomous-systemsmilitary-technologybattlefield-roboticssensor-technologyunmanned-vehiclesAnduril is working on the difficult AI-related task of real-time edge computing
IoTedge-computingmilitary-technologyautonomous-systemscomputer-visiondata-processing