The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has awarded Parallel Works, an Illinois-based software company spun out of Argonne National Laboratory, a contract to provide a unified platform that connects military supercomputing centers with secure commercial cloud infrastructure.

The contract, granted under the department’s High Performance Computing Modernization Program (HPCMP), will allow scientists, engineers, and acquisition professionals across the DoD to access both on-premises and cloud-based computing resources through a single interface. The goal is to speed up the development and deployment of high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI) workloads used for defense research and operations.

Parallel Works said its ACTIVATE High Security Platform (HSP) will act as the control plane linking Defense Supercomputing Resource Centers (DSRCs) with commercial cloud services. The platform is designed to let users move workloads across environments while maintaining security requirements for sensitive data.

The company said researchers will be able to test and deploy workloads on emerging cloud infrastructure before those capabilities are integrated into the DoD’s supercomputing centers.

Connecting defense computing

The platform has been approved at Impact Level 5 (IL5), one of the highest security classifications for non-classified DoD cloud environments. According to the company, it is among a small number of software platforms approved to handle export-controlled workloads, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

The system is intended to address growing demand for computing power driven by AI development, simulation workloads, and digital modernization programs across the military.

“AI-driven warfare and the ramp to digital modernization are demanding far more model-sharing options than legacy infrastructure can provide,” said Keith Obenschain, Chief Technology Officer at HPCMP.

The platform offers on-demand access to cloud compute resources, allowing users to avoid traditional queue delays associated with shared supercomputing systems. It also enables organizations to expand computing capacity by distributing workloads across multiple environments and cloud providers.

Parallel Works said users will have access to cloud infrastructure from providers including Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, Google Cloud, and Oracle Cloud.

Accelerating mission deployment

As part of the contract rollout, the Naval Research Laboratory has already implemented the platform to support weather forecasting workloads.

According to the company, the system automates forecasting workflows while securely coordinating computing resources across defense and cloud environments. The approach is intended to improve reliability, speed up processing, and help redistribute workloads when demand spikes.

“The HPCMP contract allows our platform to support a broad range of mission-critical HPC and AI workloads across the DOD teams,” said Matthew Shaxted, CEO of Parallel Works.

The company said the environment can also serve as a secure testing ground for AI development tools and next-generation cloud architectures before they are adopted within the DoD’s existing supercomputing infrastructure.

The contract reflects a broader push by the U.S. military to combine traditional supercomputing resources with commercial cloud services as AI models and data-intensive applications continue to increase computing requirements across defense operations.

A German company’s advanced mobile air defense system is soon to showcase its battlefield power. Called the Skyranger 30, the mobile air defense system combines state-of-the-art sensor technology with enormous firepower.

Rheinmetall will showcase its Skyranger 30 system, based on the Lynx KF41 combat vehicle, at this year’s Eurosatory 2026 in Paris. The system offers an optimal combination of mobility, protection, flexibility and precision to meet the growing demands of challenging threat scenarios in the close and immediate vicinity.

Skyranger combines state-of-the-art sensor technology

The company also revealed that the Skyranger 30 addresses the urgent global demand for resilient and mobile close-range air defense. In light of modern threat scenarios—particularly the widespread use of drones and loitering munitions—the Skyranger closes a critical capability gap for Western armed forces.

The Skyranger combines state-of-the-art sensor technology with enormous firepower. At its core is the 30mmx173 KCE revolver cannon, which has an effective range of up to 3,000 meters. Through the use of programmable airburst munitions, the system achieves an extremely high probability of hit against micro-drones.

Optimal combination of mobility, protection

Numerous EU and NATO members, including Germany, have opted for Rheinmetall’s Skyranger 30 mobile air defense solution in recent years.

The system combines high-precision cannon and missile defense to protect mobile units against current airborne threats.

For longer ranges, the turret is modular in design and can flexibly accommodate short-range air defense missiles (SHORAD). An integrated search radar and electro-optical sensors enable seamless 360-degree reconnaissance and target tracking, allowing the system to operate completely autonomously or as part of a networked system, according to a press release.

Skyranger system represents Rheinmetall’s response to a rapidly evolving threats

The Skyranger system represents Rheinmetall’s response to a rapidly evolving battlefield environment in which traditional air defense architectures are increasingly challenged by low-cost unmanned aerial systems and highly maneuverable airborne threats. Designed to protect mobile forces and critical assets, the system combines advanced sensors, automated target engagement, and a powerful mix of cannon and missile-based interceptors.

The heart of the system is the high-rate-of-fire 30 mm cannon, which employs programmable airburst ammunition to effectively defeat small drones and other hard-to-hit aerial targets. Complementing the gun are short-range guided missiles that expand the engagement envelope against helicopters, aircraft, cruise missiles, and larger unmanned systems. This dual-effector approach significantly enhances battlefield survivability for maneuver forces operating in contested environments.

The strategic significance of the Skyranger has grown considerably across Europe. As nations reassess their air defence requirements in response to lessons learned from recent conflicts, particularly the extensive use of drones and loitering munitions in Ukraine, demand for mobile ground-based air defence systems has accelerated. Rheinmetall reports increasing adoption of the Skyranger by NATO and European partners seeking to close critical capability gaps in short-range and very-short-range air defense.

With its combination of mobility, precision engagement, and adaptability, the Skyranger stands as one of the most advanced solutions currently available for protecting troops and critical infrastructure against emerging airborne threats, reinforcing Rheinmetall’s growing role in the modernization of European air defense capabilities.

At Eurosatory 2026, German defense giant Rheinmetall showcased its Containerized Missile Launcher (CML), a dedicated multi-launcher for the platform. 

It is a fully autonomous, modular weapon system that turns ordinary civilian and military logistics networks into rapid-launch missile bases.

The CML acts as a force multiplier for the company’s new FV-014 Loitering Munition System (LMS). 

Operating as part of Rheinmetall’s integrated reconnaissance and strike network, this combined system blends long-range scouting with precise strike capabilities. 

Moreover, the newly introduced CML is a critical network element that enables forces to rapidly deploy and launch multiple FV-014 “kamikaze” drones to engage battlefield targets efficiently.

360-degree gimbal

The 20 kg FV-014 functions as a portable loitering munition, providing frontline troops with an immediate link between reconnaissance and organic artillery support.

It features an aerodynamic wing design powered by a quiet electric propulsion system, allowing for stealthy operations. To enable long-term target observation, the drone is equipped with a 360-degree swiveling nose gimbal that provides frontline forces with comprehensive situational awareness.

The system delivers a flight endurance of up to 70 minutes, with a maximum operational range of 100 kilometers and a 60-kilometer data link capacity.

To ensure precise target engagement, the FV-014 drone is armed with an in-house-developed High-Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP) payload manufactured by Rheinmetall. 

This specialized warhead provides a combat capability, combining anti-personnel fragmentation effects with deep anti-armor penetration. 

Despite the drone’s lightweight design, this highly effective payload can punch through more than 600 mm of armor plating, making it lethal against heavily armored combat vehicles and fortified enemy positions.

Modern warfare demands speed, and this system is built to minimize reaction times.

According to the company, the FV-014 runs on an advanced software architecture that allows a single operator to command multiple drones in a coordinated swarm formation. 

Interestingly, the system strictly enforces a “human-in-the-loop” protocol, ensuring a human operator retains final authority over any lethal strike. 

Furthermore, this intelligent flight system is designed for high-interference battlefields, allowing the drone to navigate and operate reliably even when facing intense electronic warfare or signal jamming.

Mass-producible drone network

As per the company, the FV-014 is a central pillar of the Rheinmetall Reconnaissance Network (AWV), controlled via a user-friendly ground station.

In pooling data with other assets, such as the LUNA NG reconnaissance drone, the system creates a comprehensive battlefield picture that enables rapid target engagement.

Developed and produced entirely within the European Union, the FV-014 has been engineered from the ground up for high-volume industrial mass production. It would ensure rapid scalability for modern defense needs. 

The system’s strategic importance was validated in February 2026 during a successful live-fire demonstration for a NATO customer. This milestone culminated rapidly in a massive, multi-billion-euro framework agreement signed with the German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) in April 2026. It solidifies the drone’s position as a cornerstone of future European defense procurement.

With production lines ramping up, the future of distributed, autonomous artillery has arrived, and it comes packed inside a shipping container.

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Milrem Robotics has introduced a new plan that could change how NATO defends its eastern border. Before Eurosatory 2026 in Paris, the Estonian company shared its plan to establish robotic defense zones from Finland to Poland, using autonomous systems as the first line of defense.

The plan focuses on countering drones and improving border security. Instead of relying on large numbers of reserve troops, the firm suggests using unmanned systems to spot, track, and engage threats before they reach soldiers. The company says this could boost readiness on NATO’s eastern side, cut costs, and keep troops safer.

“The reality from Ukraine is clear: mass and readiness still matter, but how you generate them must change,” Milrem CEO Kuldar Väärsi said.

“Robotizing the Eastern Flank allows NATO to create a persistent defensive layer where unmanned systems make first contact, absorb losses, and buy time for decision-making — without immediately putting soldiers at risk.”

Robotic shield along NATO’s border

The concept is to set up Robotic and Autonomous Systems (RAS) zones along NATO’s eastern border, which is approximately 2,150 miles (3,500 kilometers). These zones would act as permanent defenses, ready to react quickly to any threats.

Milrem’s vision does not rely on one large group of robots. Instead, many unmanned systems would be spread out in secure spots and could be activated quickly when needed. The company believes this would help them survive longer and maintain strong defenses at all times.

According to the firm, these robotic zones would give NATO more time to react and plan before threats reach the front lines. The company also believes this setup could mean fewer reserve troops need to be called up during border incidents.

Networked sensors and autonomous vehicles

The plan brings together different unmanned systems. Ground robots, aerial drones, and current intelligence and surveillance tools would all work together through a shared communications network.

The ARCOS command-and-control platform is at the heart of the system. This software coordinates the autonomous units and links them to the larger battlefield management systems used by NATO.

Milrem’s plan also features some of its current robotic vehicles, like the THeMIS unmanned ground vehicle and the HAVOC robotic combat vehicle. These would handle tougher combat jobs, letting autonomous systems deal with threats in dangerous situations before soldiers are sent in.

Autonomous systems meet the enemy first

In the firm’s proposed battlefield model, robotic units would be the first to face an attacking enemy. They would provide direct-fire support and counter-drone operations, forming the first line of defense.

The company said this first layer would slow down attackers and give commanders more time to assess the situation. Traditional long-range weapons would still be used for deep strikes, while autonomous units handle risky frontline battles.

This setup aims to keep troops safer at the start of a conflict and help maintain their fighting strength for later operations.

Lessons from modern warfare

The plan is based on lessons from the war in Ukraine, where drones and autonomous tech have become key parts of fighting. Military planners in Europe are now looking more at how unmanned systems can support regular troops and boost readiness.

Milrem argues that robotic platforms can take losses that would otherwise affect soldiers. The company also thinks autonomous systems could help NATO stay better defended without needing a lot more troops.

The full concept is expected to be presented during Eurosatory 2026, where defense officials and industry leaders will review new technologies designed to make Europe safer in a more complex threat environment.

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U.S. military shipbuilder Huntington Ingalls Industries (HII) has delivered the first REMUS 130 unmanned underwater vehicle (UUV), a major milestone for one of the world’s most widely used autonomous underwater systems.

The delivery, announced Tuesday, brings the newest generation of the REMUS platform—a family of underwater drones that has supported naval, scientific, and commercial missions worldwide for over 25 years. Built by HII, this vehicle improves on the REMUS 100 series with better electronics, modular payloads, and an open-architecture design.

A new chapter for the REMUS fleet

The REMUS 130 is the third generation of the successful REMUS 100 platform. It keeps the main features that made earlier models popular, such as being easy to use, reliable, and effective for missions.

According to HII, the system is designed for more interoperability and flexibility, while still working with other REMUS models. It also shares its technology base with the larger REMUS 300 and REMUS 620 systems.

“The delivery of the first REMUS 130 represents an important step in the continued evolution of the REMUS family,” stated Duane Fotheringham, president of the Unmanned Systems group in HII’s Mission Technologies division.

“For decades, customers have relied on REMUS vehicles for their durability, ease of operation and proven performance. REMUS 130 builds on that legacy with a highly capable, modular platform that delivers greater flexibility, interoperability and value while leveraging common architecture across the REMUS fleet.”

Compact design built for rapid deployment

A main feature of the REMUS 130 is its portability. The company said a two-person team can transport and deploy the vehicle, allowing operators to quickly start missions without requiring large support equipment.

The UUV can operate to depths of up to 328 feet (100 meters) and remain underwater for up to 10 hours during a mission. Its batteries can be swapped in the field to cut downtime and keep missions on schedule.

The compact design targets organizations that need an underwater vehicle they can deploy quickly, while still supporting many types of sensors and mission packages. This could appeal to military, scientific, and commercial users working in remote areas.

Powered by advanced autonomous technology

The REMUS 130 uses HII’s Odyssey Autonomous Control System (ACS), a software setup already used on REMUS platforms in over 30 countries.

The system integrates navigation, communications, processing, and autonomous decision-making into a single framework. Its open design lets operators add commercial, government, or custom payloads without major redesign.

The firm pointed out that Odyssey ACS supports advanced features such as collaborative autonomy, sensor fusion, and enhanced environmental awareness. The system is also built to lower long-term costs and help the vehicle adapt to new mission needs over time.

Expanding roles beneath the surface

The REMUS 130 is designed for many types of underwater work. It can be used for ocean research, environmental monitoring, mapping the seabed, inspecting offshore energy sites, search-and-rescue, and mine countermeasures.

With the REMUS 130, HII’s autonomous maritime lineup now includes over 750 REMUS vehicles delivered worldwide. The company said 14 NATO navies use REMUS systems, which have built a strong reputation in defense, science, and commercial fields.

China’s R6000, one of the world’s largest uncrewed tiltrotor aircraft, has entered full free-flight testing, according to newly emerged video footage.

The new development marks a notable progression for developer United Aircraft, as it has now moved beyond earlier tethered hover trials. It also highlights Beijing’s push into advanced vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) technologies.

China’s ‘Steel Shadow’ drone

Footage circulating on Chinese social media (viewable below) shows the R6000 performing vertical flight maneuvers, including a pedal turn in hover, and transitioning to sustained forward flight with its twin proprotors fully tilted forward.

Unlike previous imagery, which was limited to ground-tethered tests, the new video demonstrates untethered operations. This is a critical milestone for validating the aircraft’s complex aerodynamics and flight control systems.

Developed by Shenzhen-based United Aircraft, the R6000—also known as the UR6000 or Lan Ying (Steel Shadow)—is a roughly 6-ton-class platform. It features fixed engine nacelles with hinged proprotors, a configuration similar to Bell’s MV-75A Cheyenne II rather than the pivoting nacelles of the V-22 Osprey.

全球首款6吨级倾转翼无人机试飞 pic.twitter.com/9oIZFq7taR

— DS北风 (@WenJian0922) June 15, 2026

The design combines helicopter-style VTOL capability with the speed and range of a fixed-wing aircraft.

The prototype was first photographed on the production line at United Aircraft’s facility in Wuhu, Anhui province, in October 2024. The company unveiled the concept at the 2024 Singapore Airshow, presenting both crewed and uncrewed variants. Tethered hover testing began in late 2025, with ground engine runs earlier that year.

Serving remote island locations

Officially, United Aircraft positions the R6000 for civilian roles including logistics, disaster relief, offshore support, and operations in areas lacking prepared runways. It can support cargo or passenger transport, with capacity for 6 to 12 people in crewed configurations. However, its capabilities align closely with the military needs of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).

According to a report from The War Zone, the craft would be particularly useful in resupplying remote island bases in the South China Sea, border outposts, and amphibious operations.

The drone could operate from large PLAN vessels such as the Type 076 amphibious assault ship, extending logistical reach. Beyond transport, the platform’s payload capacity could enable intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance (ISR), electronic warfare, communications relay, or strike missions.

The news of R6000’s progress comes amid broader Chinese investment in uncrewed systems, from small tactical drones to large autonomous cargo aircraft.

Challenges still remain when it comes to tiltrotor technology, as demonstrated by historical challenges in programs like the V-22. It’s worth noting as well that no detailed performance data for the R6000 has been released. Still, sustained free flight testing will provide further insight into its speed, range, and transition capabilities between hover and forward flight.

Continued testing of the R6000 will likely draw attention from military observers tracking Beijing’s vertical-lift modernization efforts. China’s goal is to advance aviation and develop versatile platforms for both commercial and defense applications.

Thales Australia has unveiled the next-generation Bushmaster Mulga utility variant at the Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris, marking the most significant evolution of the combat-proven Australian armored vehicle in years.

The Bushmaster 5.6 was officially revealed on the Team Defence Australia stand by Major General Jason Blain, Head of Land Systems for the Australian Defence Force’s Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group, alongside Thales Vehicles and Tactical Systems Vice-President Julien Assoun.

The unveiling forms part of a broader Thales announcement push at Eurosatory 2026, which also included the RapidStriker counter-drone system and a new AI-powered military training analytics platform.

From Bendigo to global market

The Bushmaster has built its reputation over nearly three decades of continuous service. Produced at Thales Australia’s Bendigo, Victoria facility since 1997, more than 1,300 units have been built and deployed in operations spanning East Timor, Afghanistan, Iraq, Mali, the Golan Heights, and, most recently, Ukraine.

The 5.6 variant is explicitly designed for global export. Its most visible change is a new left-hand-drive configuration — a departure from the right-hand-drive layout standard in Australian service, aimed squarely at international buyers across Europe, the Middle East, and other left-hand-drive markets. The redesign also introduces more user-friendly door access and vehicle entry systems, as well as enhanced digital displays in the cabin.

Built around connectivity and counter-drone integration

What distinguishes the 5.6 from earlier Mulga variants is not just cosmetic — it is architectural. Thales says the new version features systems that are more interconnected, supporting both autonomous and crewed operations, and is capable of integrating a range of different sensors, effectors, and mission systems depending on customer requirements.

Counter-drone capability sits at the center of that flexibility. The Bushmaster 5.6 has been designed to support electronic warfare measures, remote weapon stations, and laser-guided rockets — Thales separately unveiled a next-generation 70mm laser-guided rocket dedicated to counter-drone operations at the same event.

The vehicle was also showcased at Eurosatory as the demonstration platform for RapidStriker, Thales’s new mobile air defense system designed to detect and neutralize aerial threats — including drones and low-flying helicopters — within seconds using a combination of sensors, automated fire control, and multiple weapon options.

Thales Australia & New Zealand CEO Jeff Connolly framed the upgrade as a direct response to the changing character of modern warfare, particularly the lessons drawn from drone proliferation on the battlefield in Ukraine.

Already a trusted defender, he said, the Bushmaster 5.6 has been designed to provide greater flexibility for modern missions, particularly in counter-drone operations, sensing, communications, and electronic warfare.

Adaptable by design

Thales Australia Land Vice-President Andrew Downes described the underlying philosophy behind the redesign: a vehicle that allows customers to adapt it for different missions while retaining the protection, mobility, and reliability that made the original Bushmaster successful globally.

One operator may prioritize surveillance equipment; another may opt for missile launchers or electronic warfare payloads — the same chassis accommodating either configuration.

That modularity reflects a broader shift across modern armored vehicle design, where platforms are increasingly expected to function as adaptable mission carriers rather than single-purpose vehicles.

The existing fleet of more than 1,300 Bushmasters in service worldwide stands to benefit as well — Thales has indicated that select capabilities demonstrated on the 5.6, including counter-drone systems, can be retrofitted onto earlier platform variants already in operation.

As militaries worldwide reassess vehicle survivability requirements in light of the drone-saturated battlefields seen in Ukraine, the Bushmaster 5.6’s emphasis on connectivity, adaptability, and counter-drone integration positions it as Thales’s answer to a fundamentally changed combat environment — one where survivability now depends as much on sensor and electronic warfare integration as on armor plating alone.

German defense manufacturer Rheinmetall have officially unveiled its Containerized Missile Launcher (CML), a specialized multi-launcher platform engineered for the FV-014 Loitering Munition System (LMS).

Designed to expand frontline firepower and shorten critical tactical reaction times, the CML serves as a modular, fully autonomous, and digitally networked weapon system.

The new launcher integrates directly into modern multi-domain combat networks, bridging the operational gap between close-range reconnaissance and conventional artillery units.

The technological core of the system relies on a standardized, logistically flexible 20-foot shipping container. This tactical footprint allows the launcher to be transported seamlessly across various civilian and military logistics systems, including commercial trucks, trains, and maritime supply vessels.

By utilizing a universally recognized container format, the CML enables covert deployment strategies and rapid positioning across highly contested operational theaters, functioning either as a standalone ground asset or mounted directly onto land vehicles and seagoing units.

Autonomous swarm capabilities

The internal architecture of the CML accommodates up to 18 ready-to-launch FV-014 loitering munitions. Equipped with an onboard battery system and a dedicated low-power sleep mode, the launcher can remain operational in a standby state over extended periods.

When a fire mission is authorized, the system automatically transitions from standby to active mode, utilizing an integrated power supply and an optional auxiliary generator to sustain prolonged remote operations.

A central highlight of the design is its high degree of automation and minimized crew footprint. Utilizing advanced swarm coordination algorithms, the system allows a single operator to launch and manage multiple FV-014 “kamikaze drones” simultaneously in a single, coordinated salvo.

Network integration

The CML features integrated fire control systems and highly secure communication channels, allowing tactical units to execute remote launch sequences while keeping human operators safely isolated from counter-battery fire.

Digital command is anchored by the Rheinmetall Battlesuite, which provides an open software architecture that leverages standardized military protocols such as ROS2, MAVLink, and established NATO STANAGs.

This open framework is publicly available on GitHub alongside a dedicated digital test environment, enabling the system to be quickly integrated with existing electronic command, control, and reconnaissance systems across different global defense forces.

Specifications of the FV-014 strike system

The FV-014 munition housed within the CML is an EU-designed, 20-kilogram aerial platform built specifically for rapid, high-volume industrial mass production.

Featuring a quiet, low-signature electric propulsion system and folding wings that deploy immediately upon booster launch, the drone is highly optimized for survivability in heavily contested airspaces.

It features a maximum operational range of 100 kilometers (62 miles), a 60-kilometer (37 miles) real-time data link range, and a flight endurance window of up to 70 minutes.

For precise target engagement beyond the line of sight, the drone carries a 6-kilogram total payload capacity, which includes a highly potent High-Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP) warhead manufactured by Rheinmetall.

This warhead delivers a rated penetration capability exceeding 600 millimeters of rolled homogeneous armor (RHA), making it lethal against main battle tanks, heavy artillery emplacements, and protected military infrastructure.

Following a successful demonstration for a NATO client in February 2026, the German Armed Forces validated the system’s strategic importance by signing a multi-billion-euro framework agreement for the FV-014 in April 2026.

Russia’s Yasen-class and America’s Virginia-class submarines are among the most advanced nuclear-powered attack submarines in service today.

Both are designed to hunt enemy submarines, strike surface ships, gather intelligence, and launch cruise missiles against land targets. But they reflect very different naval priorities.

The Virginia class is built around numbers, flexibility, and long-term modernization. The Yasen class is built around heavy firepower and strategic intimidation.

In simple terms, the Virginia is a quieter, networked hunter; the Yasen is a heavily armed predator designed to threaten targets at sea and on land.

Two submarines, two naval doctrines

The Virginia class was developed after the Cold War as a more affordable successor to the extremely capable Seawolf class.

Instead of building a small number of very expensive submarines, the United States focused on producing a larger fleet of advanced boats that could be upgraded over time.

Virginia-class submarines are used for anti-submarine warfare, intelligence gathering, special operations support, and precision land attack.

Russia’s Yasen class, also known as Project 885, had a longer and more difficult birth. Its design roots go back to the Soviet period, but the first boat, Severodvinsk, entered service only in the 2010s.

The upgraded Yasen-M version is smaller, more modern, and believed to be quieter than the original. Russia does not have as many Yasen-class submarines as the US has Virginias, so each Yasen is treated as a high-value strategic asset.

That difference matters. The US Navy can deploy Virginia-class boats across multiple theatres at once. Russia uses the Yasen class more selectively, often as a way to project power into the North Atlantic, Arctic, Mediterranean, or near US waters.

Stealth and sensors

Submarine warfare is not mainly about speed or size. It is about who detects whom first. On that front, the Virginia class is widely regarded as one of the quietest attack submarines in the world.

Its design emphasizes acoustic stealth, advanced sonar, and the ability to work with other US naval assets. It also benefits from decades of American experience in undersea surveillance.

The Yasen class is also considered a major leap over older Russian submarines. It uses a large spherical sonar array, flank arrays, and a towed array, giving it strong detection capability.

Western officials have repeatedly treated the Yasen-M as a serious tracking challenge, especially because it can carry long-range cruise missiles while remaining difficult to locate.

Still, most open-source assessments give the Virginia class an edge in quietness and undersea networking. The Yasen is dangerous not because it is necessarily quieter, but because it combines stealth with a large missile load.

Firepower and mission profile

This is where the Yasen class stands out. It can carry a mix of Kalibr land-attack cruise missiles, Oniks anti-ship missiles, and newer Zircon hypersonic missiles on some boats.

That gives it the ability to threaten warships, naval bases, command centers, and infrastructure from long distances.

The Virginia class also carries Tomahawk cruise missiles and heavyweight torpedoes. Earlier Virginia boats have 12 vertical launch tubes, while Block V submarines add the Virginia Payload Module, significantly increasing missile capacity.

This makes newer Virginias more powerful land-attack platforms while keeping their traditional hunter-killer role.

So, who wins?

The Virginia class has the overall edge.

The Yasen class is extremely dangerous, especially because of its heavy missile load and ability to threaten ships, bases, and land targets from long range.

A single Yasen-M submarine can force NATO navies to spend major effort tracking it, which shows how serious the threat is.

But the Virginia class is the better all-round attack submarine. It is widely regarded as quieter, benefits from stronger undersea sensor networks, and is deeply integrated with the wider US Navy.

It is also being built in larger numbers and continuously upgraded, especially with newer Block V boats adding more missile capacity.

That gives the Virginia class an advantage not just in a one-on-one fight, but in real-world naval operations. Submarine warfare depends on stealth, detection, crew training, logistics, and fleet support, not just the number of missiles carried.

The Yasen class may be the more heavily armed submarine, but the Virginia class is the more complete weapon system. If one side has to be picked, America’s Virginia-class comes out ahead.

As militaries scramble to adapt to the rapid spread of battlefield drones, Thales has unveiled RapidStriker, a mobile air defense system designed to hunt and destroy aerial threats within seconds. Introduced at the Eurosatory defense exhibition in France, the new capability combines sensors, automated fire control and multiple weapon options in a package built to move alongside frontline forces.

RapidStriker can engage more than just drones. The system also provides protection against low-flying helicopters operating close to frontline forces.

Countering drone surge

Rather than relying on a single weapon, RapidStriker gives operators several ways to engage a target. The system pairs its sensors with automated fire control before cueing the most suitable effector for the mission.

Operators can deploy guided or unguided 68 mm and 70 mm rockets. Small-caliber cannons and remotely operated munitions can also be integrated depending on operational needs.

According to Thales, RapidStriker can identify a threat within seconds of detection before maintaining a track and initiating an engagement sequence. The heavy use of automation reduces the burden on crews during high-pressure situations.

That speed has become increasingly important as armed forces confront swarms of inexpensive drones designed to overwhelm conventional defenses. The rocket systems add another layer of flexibility. Beyond counter-drone missions, they support precision strikes against ground targets and provide saturation fire when troops require broader area effects.

Bushmaster upgrade

Thales designed RapidStriker to work across multiple combat vehicles instead of confining it to a dedicated platform. At Eurosatory, the company demonstrated the capability aboard the newly unveiled Bushmaster 5.6 utility vehicle from Thales Australia.

Known as the Mulga variant, the latest Bushmaster builds on a platform already proven in combat. The vehicle can accept different mission packages based on customer requirements. One operator may prioritize surveillance equipment, while another may choose missile launchers or electronic warfare payloads.

The redesign also introduces a left-hand-drive configuration aimed at overseas buyers. Thales says the upgraded Bushmaster better reflects the realities of modern warfare, where adaptability often matters as much as protection.

Bigger network

RapidStriker was developed to plug into wider air defense architectures rather than function as a standalone asset. The company says the system remains fully compatible with SkyDefender, Thales’ integrated air and missile defense network. That interoperability allows commanders to share information across multiple assets and build a more complete picture of the battlespace.

“With RapidStriker, Thales takes a decisive step forward in the fight against drones,” Julien Assoun, vice president of Vehicles and Tactical Systems at Thales, said in a statement. He said the company moved from concept to delivery within months to address urgent operational demands. The resulting system can also be adapted for use across a broad range of combat vehicles.

RapidStriker marks the latest addition to Thales’ expanding counter-drone portfolio. Earlier at Eurosatory, the company introduced a next-generation 70mm laser-guided rocket developed specifically for anti-drone missions. Together, the launches signal a growing emphasis on affordable defenses against threats that increasingly define today’s battlefield.

The US military is launching an ambitious effort to develop a new generation of rechargeable batteries capable of delivering up to ten times the energy density of today’s systems, a breakthrough that could dramatically extend the range, endurance, and effectiveness of future drones, robots, sensors, and battlefield electronics.

Led by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the initiative aims to overcome one of the biggest limitations facing modern military systems: the tradeoff between storing large amounts of energy and delivering it rapidly when needed. According to DARPA’s newly announced Expeditionary Power- and Energy-Dense Implementations (ExPEDitions) program, researchers will explore advanced battery chemistries, materials, and architectures capable of achieving five to ten times the energy density of current rechargeable technologies. 

Industry reporting suggests the agency is targeting systems that exceed 2 kilowatt-hours per kilogram (kWh/kg), far beyond the performance of most lithium-ion batteries in service today. Sources: DARPA, Defense Blog.

Why batteries are becoming a critical battlefield tech

For decades, military planners focused on weapons, sensors, and vehicles. Increasingly, however, the limiting factor is energy.

“Energy has long been the fundamental currency of the battlespace,” DARPA notes in its program description. Whether powering drones, communications equipment, autonomous vehicles, electronic warfare systems, or future directed-energy weapons, military platforms are becoming more dependent on portable power than ever before.

The challenge lies in balancing two competing requirements. Energy density determines how long a system can operate before recharging, while power density determines how quickly that energy can be delivered.

A surveillance drone may need to remain airborne for hours while continuously operating cameras and communications systems. A strike drone, meanwhile, may require sudden bursts of power to maneuver aggressively or execute attacks. Most existing battery technologies force designers to compromise between endurance and performance.

DARPA’s ExPEDitions program aims to eliminate that compromise by developing batteries capable of delivering both.

The logistics advantage

The military value of better batteries extends well beyond longer flight times. Every battery, fuel convoy, generator, and charging station deployed to the battlefield creates a logistical burden. In many conflicts, supply lines become some of the most vulnerable targets.

A battery capable of storing five to ten times more energy could dramatically reduce the number of resupply missions required to sustain drones, sensors, robotic systems, and dismounted troops.

For autonomous systems, the benefits could be even greater. Longer-lasting batteries would allow drones to remain on station for extended periods, enable robotic vehicles to travel farther, and reduce dependence on fixed charging infrastructure that could be targeted by adversaries.

Why China is part of the conversation

The initiative also reflects growing concern in Washington over global battery supply chains. Analysts at the Atlantic Council recently argued that batteries are no longer merely an energy technology. They have become a strategic military capability. The think tank warned that China’s dominance across battery manufacturing, critical mineral processing, and supply chains could eventually influence future military competitiveness.

China currently occupies a commanding position in much of the global battery ecosystem, from lithium processing and cathode production to large-scale cell manufacturing. As militaries increasingly electrify vehicles and deploy autonomous systems, access to advanced battery technology is becoming a national security issue.

The Atlantic Council argues that maintaining a technological edge will require not only better battery designs but also domestic manufacturing capacity and resilient supply chains.

Beyond drones and robots

Although unmanned systems are among the most obvious beneficiaries, a breakthrough in battery performance could affect nearly every aspect of military operations. Future soldier-worn electronics, portable radar systems, autonomous underwater vehicles, communications networks, and even directed-energy weapons could all benefit from lighter and more energy-dense power sources.

DARPA’s program is scheduled to run for 36 months across two phases beginning in 2027, with multiple prototype awards planned under Other Transaction Agreements. Whether researchers ultimately achieve the agency’s ambitious fivefold-to-tenfold improvement remains to be seen. But if successful, the effort could reshape not only military technology but also the future of robotics, aerospace, and electric transportation far beyond the battlefield.

Countering small drones has become as much a financial challenge as a military one. Armed forces increasingly find themselves using costly interceptors against targets that are cheap to build and easy to deploy. Thales says its newest guided rocket was developed to restore that balance.

The company has unveiled the LGR275 Proxy, a 70mm laser-guided rocket designed specifically to intercept small unmanned aerial systems. Unlike traditional air defense interceptors, the new weapon aims to bring down drones without imposing unsustainable costs on military budgets.

Designed for drone hunts

At the heart of the LGR275 Proxy is a proximity sensor designed to improve engagements against aerial targets, adding a new capability to Thales’ established 70mm guided rocket family.

Instead of relying solely on direct impact, the sensor increases the chances of neutralizing fast-moving drones by triggering the rocket at the optimal moment. Thales paired the sensor with a military-grade warhead engineered to engage smaller airborne threats.

The result is a weapon designed to strike a balance between effectiveness and affordability. Modern militaries often deploy expensive missiles against low-cost drones. That mismatch can drain inventories and stretch defense spending during prolonged operations. Thales says the LGR275 Proxy addresses that problem by offering a more economical interception option.

The rocket supports both surface-to-air and air-to-air missions, giving commanders greater flexibility in how they deploy it. Forces could integrate the system into layered defense networks to engage threats before higher-end interceptors become necessary.

Class 1 and Class 2 drones have emerged as some of the most persistent threats on contemporary battlefields. They conduct reconnaissance missions, direct artillery fire, and carry explosive payloads. Their low cost and widespread availability make them difficult to counter using traditional methods alone.

Production set to expand

Thales Belgium plans to significantly increase the output of its guided rocket family over the next several years. The company expects production capacity to triple between 2026 and 2028. It also intends to strengthen its industrial footprint to support international customers seeking faster deliveries and dependable supply chains.

The production ramp-up reflects growing global demand for counter-drone capabilities. Recent conflicts have shown how quickly drone attacks can overwhelm traditional defenses and deplete interceptor stockpiles.

For defense manufacturers, production capacity has become almost as important as technical performance. Armed forces increasingly seek suppliers that can deliver at scale while maintaining consistent quality and shorter lead times.

Part of a broader shield

The LGR275 Proxy will also reinforce SkyDefender, Thales’ multi-layered Integrated Air and Missile Defence architecture. By adding a lower-cost interception layer, the company aims to provide customers with more sustainable protection against evolving aerial threats. Layered defenses allow operators to match the right weapon to the right target rather than relying on a single interceptor type.

Alain Quevrin, Country Director for Thales Belgium and Luxembourg, said the company developed the new rocket to help nations strengthen their readiness against the expanding drone threat.

He said Thales Belgium remains a leading producer of NATO-standard rockets and noted that the planned production increase would help meet the operational requirements of armed forces facing increasingly complex security environments.

The US Department of Defense has a lot of congressionally mandated homework to do every year involving hundreds of required reports on various national security topics. But Pentagon officials have been proudly describing a new shortcut—using generative AI tools to write such reports for Congress.

Pentagon Chief Technology Officer Emil Michael highlighted AI-generated reports to Congress as a key example of how the Department of Defense—stylized as the Department of War under the Trump administration—has adopted generative AI during an event hosted by the Hudson Institute think tank in Washington, DC, on June 12. The Pentagon has made AI tools, starting with Google Cloud’s Gemini for Government, widely available to members of all six military branches through the department’s bespoke GenAI.mil platform since December 2025.

“I have to report to Congress every year on this thing,” Michael said. “Let me load all the papers onto it and have it draft me a congressional report that would otherwise take 200 hours of staffing time and do it in five hours.”

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European missile manufacturer MBDA has unveiled a new long-range strike weapon that could significantly expand Europe’s ability to hit targets deep behind enemy lines without relying on US-made systems.

Introduced at the Eurosatory defense exhibition in Paris, the new Naval Cruise Missile–Land Cruise Missile (NCM-LCM) Mk2 combines MBDA’s combat-proven Naval Cruise Missile with a mobile ground-launch capability, creating what many analysts describe as Europe’s closest equivalent to the US Tomahawk cruise missile.

The company says the missile can strike targets at ranges exceeding 1,000 kilometers (621 miles) while maintaining precision even in heavily jammed electronic warfare environments. A first operational ground launch system is expected to become available from 2029.

Why the new missile matters

The unveiling comes as European militaries seek greater strategic autonomy and long-range strike capabilities amid growing geopolitical tensions.

Long-range cruise missiles allow militaries to destroy command centers, air-defense systems, logistics hubs, and critical infrastructure far behind enemy lines without exposing aircraft or troops to enemy defenses.

While Europe already fields air- and sea-launched deep-strike weapons such as SCALP/Storm Shadow and the Naval Cruise Missile, it has lacked a dedicated ground-launched cruise missile with comparable range and operational flexibility. The LCM Mk2 is designed to fill that gap.

Unlike conventional artillery systems, which typically reach tens or hundreds of kilometers, the new missile can engage targets more than 1,000 kilometers away, allowing commanders to project firepower across entire theaters of operation.

Built for GPS-denied warfare

One of the most significant upgrades in the Mk2 variant is its ability to operate in highly contested electronic warfare environments. Modern battlefields increasingly feature GPS jamming and spoofing systems designed to disrupt precision-guided weapons. Rather than relying solely on satellite navigation, the NCM-LCM uses multiple guidance methods.

The missile uses a combination of inertial navigation, terrain-reference navigation, satellite positioning, and an imaging infrared seeker. In the terminal phase of flight, the seeker compares the target area against stored reference imagery, helping maintain precision even when satellite navigation signals are degraded or unavailable.

This multi-layered approach allows the weapon to maintain accuracy even in GPS-denied environments. MBDA has also equipped the Mk2 with a new-generation anti-jamming system, upgraded avionics, and enhanced mission electronics designed for high-intensity conflict scenarios.

How the missile survives enemy defenses

Unlike hypersonic weapons that rely on extreme speed, the NCM-LCM survives by remaining difficult to detect.

The missile flies at low altitude, closely following terrain features such as hills, valleys, and coastlines to remain below enemy radar coverage. MBDA says the Mk2’s redesigned nose section and updated electronics allow even lower-altitude flight, further improving survivability.

The missile also incorporates stealth features that reduce its radar signature, making interception more difficult. MBDA has also showcased a complementary concept known as Deluge, a low-cost expendable drone designed to saturate enemy air-defense networks and create opportunities for long-range missiles to penetrate contested airspace.

A mobile launcher designed to disappear

The land-based version is designed for rapid deployment and survivability. According to MBDA, a launcher vehicle can move into an unprepared location, deploy, and have four missiles ready to fire in under 15 minutes. Once launched, the battery can relocate before enemy forces identify its position. 

This “shoot-and-scoot” capability has become increasingly important in modern conflicts, where drones and counter-battery systems can rapidly detect and target static launch sites. The company also notes that the missile can be integrated into synchronized multi-domain strike operations, enabling launches from ships, submarines, and ground batteries to coordinate attacks on the same set of targets.

NCM-LCM Mk2 signals Europe’s growing ambition to field sovereign long-range strike systems capable of operating in the highly contested battlefields of the future.

Will AI robot soldiers take over the battlefield? If your image of a robot soldier comes from The Terminator, the answer is probably no. If your image is a swarm of AI-guided drones, autonomous ground vehicles, robotic tanks, and software making battlefield decisions faster than humans ever could, then the answer is that it is already happening.

There is no doubt that warfare in our times is increasingly becoming a contest between machines. The war in Ukraine has demonstrated this more clearly than any conflict in history. Millions of drones are now being produced annually by both Ukraine and Russia, transforming reconnaissance, logistics, artillery spotting, and strike missions. 

Unmanned systems already outnumber human combatants in active zones like Ukraine, where tens of thousands of drones and autonomous platforms are deployed. While this conflict points to a future in which sensors, drones, and weapons are integrated into unified, AI-assisted networks, the US-Israel war on Iran highlights a the economic reality of modern warfare. 

Cheap drones and missiles costing tens of thousands of dollars have repeatedly forced defenders to launch interceptors worth hundreds of thousands, or even millions, of dollars, proving that future conflicts may be determined as much by cost-exchange ratios as by technological superiority.

The robot takeover has already begun

The first generation of battlefield robots does not look human. Instead, it looks like first-person-view drones carrying explosives, autonomous reconnaissance aircraft, robotic ground vehicles delivering ammunition, and uncrewed boats attacking warships.

In April, Ukraine announced that one operation to capture a Russian position was conducted entirely using unmanned systems, including aerial drones and robotic ground vehicles, without direct human assault troops. While humans still planned and supervised the mission, the operation offered a glimpse into how future battles may unfold.

This is where military investment is currently focused. The United States, China, Russia, Ukraine, and many NATO countries are developing autonomous aircraft, robotic vehicles, uncrewed submarines, and AI-powered targeting systems designed to reduce risk to soldiers while increasing battlefield effectiveness.

What about humanoid robot soldiers?

That future remains much further away. One of the most closely watched examples is the Phantom MK-1, a humanoid robot developed by the US company Foundation. In early 2026, two units were sent to Ukraine for battlefield evaluation, primarily for reconnaissance and logistics missions. The deployment marked one of the first known attempts to test a humanoid robot in an active war zone. But the tests also highlighted the technology’s limitations.

The Phantom MK-1 can carry only modest payloads, has limited battery endurance, and still struggles with many tasks humans perform effortlessly. Reports from the Ukrainian trials suggest the robots were mainly useful for logistics and support missions rather than combat.

Even Foundation’s leadership argues that humanoid robots are more likely to serve as a first line of defense, reconnaissance platform, or force-protection system than as replacements for infantry soldiers. The company’s philosophy is simple: “Don’t send a human where you can send a robot first.”

Why do humanoids still struggle

The problem is that battlefields are among the most demanding environments imaginable. A humanoid robot must walk over rubble, mud, snow, trenches, stairs, and debris. It must manipulate unfamiliar objects, survive electronic warfare, operate for hours without recharging, and make decisions in rapidly changing environments.

Robots may need to master household chores before they master warfare. Folding laundry, loading dishwashers, cleaning kitchens, and navigating cluttered homes require many of the same perception, manipulation, and reasoning capabilities that would eventually allow robots to operate independently on a battlefield.

That is one reason why companies such as Tesla, Figure, Agility Robotics, and Unitree continue to focus heavily on factories, warehouses, and logistics operations rather than combat applications.

The real future of AI warfare

The future battlefield is unlikely to be dominated by armies of humanoid robots carrying rifles. Instead, it will probably consist of human soldiers working alongside large numbers of autonomous systems. AI software will process intelligence, drones will conduct surveillance and strikes, robotic vehicles will handle dangerous missions, and uncrewed platforms will increasingly take on tasks once assigned to humans.

The biggest transformation may not be robotic bodies at all. It may be AI becoming the invisible operating system behind military decision-making. In other words, robot soldiers are coming. They just may not look anything like the ones in Hollywood movies.

The startup uses probabilistic reasoning to diagnose spacecraft anomalies

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India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has completed three back-to-back flight tests of its Phase 2 Ballistic Missile Defence (BMD) system, marking a major step in the country’s effort to build a credible multi-layered missile shield.

The trials were carried out on June 10 and 11 and saw interceptors destroy targets in both the endo-atmospheric and exo-atmospheric regions.

In simpler terms, the system demonstrated its ability to engage incoming missile threats both within Earth’s atmosphere and outside it.

The Phase 2 shield is designed to counter faster and longer-range ballistic missiles than the earlier version of the program. It is also expected to eventually scale up toward intercepting intercontinental ballistic missile threats.

“The interceptors successfully engaged their respective targets. The systems are designed and developed with the latest technologies to address the emerging missile threats,” the ministry stated.

“These tests have put the country in the elite group of nations having BMD capability to engage up to Intercontinental Ballistic Missiles.”

Designed for longer-range threats

The Phase 2 system includes two interceptors, AD-1 and AD-2, which are meant to destroy ballistic missile threats during different phases of flight. The system is network-centric, relying on launchers, long-range radars, launch control centers, and a mission control center.

While the Ministry of Defense said the system can engage threats up to the ICBM class, the latest demonstrations reportedly involved targets in the 2,000 to 5,000-kilometer range.

Missiles in this range are generally classified as intermediate-range ballistic missiles, while ICBMs are usually defined as missiles with ranges above 5,500 kilometers.

The trials still represent a significant step up from the earlier Phase 1 system, which was developed to defend against shorter-range ballistic missile threats.

Two decades in the making

India’s BMD program began in the late 1990s, after Pakistan’s 1998 nuclear tests. Its first major success came in 2006, when a Prithvi-II ballistic missile target was intercepted in an endo-atmospheric test at an altitude of around 48 kilometers.

Phase 1 of the missile shield was completed in 2019 and was designed to protect key cities such as Delhi and Mumbai.

It used the Prithvi Defense Vehicle for high-altitude interception and the Advanced Air Defense interceptor for lower-altitude engagements.

Phase 3 eyes hypersonic weapons

DRDO is already working on the next stage of the program. Phase 3 is expected to focus on more complex threats, including hypersonic glide vehicles and missiles carrying Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicles, or MIRVs.

Hypersonic glide vehicles are especially difficult to intercept because they travel above Mach 5 and can maneuver during flight. MIRV-equipped missiles pose another challenge because a single missile can release multiple warheads aimed at different targets.

The next-generation interceptors, reportedly designated AD-AH and AD-AM, are still at an early conceptual stage, with flight testing yet to begin.

The latest BMD trials come as China continues to field advanced missile systems and Pakistan develops longer-range and MIRV-capable weapons. For New Delhi, the tests mark another step toward a more advanced defensive shield against evolving missile threats.

US firm Aurelius Systems has completed live testing of its Archimedes autonomous directed-energy system for the Pentagon, demonstrating the laser weapon’s ability to counter unmanned aerial system threats in a live exercise.

The test was held at Camp Atterbury in Indiana and formed part of a broader evaluation effort involving nearly 60 platforms being assessed for their potential to improve warfighter protection, operational effectiveness, and next-generation defense capabilities.

During the exercise, Archimedes engaged more than 20 quadcopter drones and five U.S. Army-supplied unmanned aerial systems. According to the company, the event marked the first time the system was tested against military-provided targets.

Laser tested against army drones

The California-based defense firm said Archimedes successfully neutralized the simulated aerial threats during the demonstration.

The result, it said, validated the system’s readiness as a counter-drone tool at a time when small unmanned aircraft are becoming a growing concern for military bases, frontline units, and critical infrastructure.

The live test also showed the system’s ability to autonomously detect, identify, track, and defeat drone threats without relying on traditional missile-based interceptors.

“Archimedes proved that autonomous directed energy systems are ready to play a meaningful role in modern air defense operations,” said Michael LaFramboise, CEO of Aurelius Systems.

Built for Group 1 and 2 UAS

Archimedes is designed to counter Group 1 and Group 2 unmanned aerial systems.

These include smaller drones and UAS platforms weighing up to 1,320 pounds (599 kilograms), with speeds of up to 250 knots, or around 288 miles per hour (463 kilometers per hour).

The system combines high-energy laser output with advanced sensing technology, allowing it to repeatedly engage targets at ranges beyond 1,000 meters, or about 3,281 feet.

Unlike missile interceptors, which can be expensive and limited by magazine depth, directed-energy systems offer a different approach.

They use concentrated energy to disable or destroy threats and can potentially deliver multiple shots at a much lower cost per engagement.

That cost advantage is becoming increasingly important as relatively cheap drones are being used in large numbers across modern battlefields.

Low-cost air defense option

Aurelius Systems has positioned Archimedes as a compact, scalable counter-UAS system that can support force protection missions.

The company says the platform offers low size, weight, power, and cost characteristics, making it easier to deploy than larger air defense systems.

“The ability to autonomously acquire, identify, track, and defeat aerial threats in a compact, [low size, weight, power, and cost] platform at a significantly lower cost than traditional systems provides America with a powerful new option for protecting military forces,” La Framboise said.

The demonstration comes as the Pentagon continues to search for faster, cheaper, and more sustainable ways to defeat drones.

Small UAS threats can be difficult to detect and expensive to counter with conventional weapons, especially when launched in swarms or used repeatedly.

With its latest live test, Archimedes has now shown that it can operate against both commercial-style quadcopters and Army-supplied targets, giving Aurelius Systems a stronger case for the laser weapon’s role in future layered air defense.

The US Army has awarded General Atomics Electromagnetic Systems (GA-EMS) a contract to advance a next-generation 155 mm artillery projectile capable of hitting targets at significantly greater distances than conventional shells while maintaining accuracy even when GPS signals are unavailable.

The award falls under the Army’s Extended Range Artillery Projectile (ERAP) program, an effort to develop a new class of long-range precision munitions that could dramatically increase the reach of existing artillery systems. 

According to General Atomics, the project will fund a series of flight demonstrations to validate the projectile’s performance before the Army moves toward achieving initial operational capability by fiscal year 2030.

The announcement follows earlier testing that demonstrated the munition’s potential. During trials conducted at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona, a version of the projectile successfully struck targets more than 74 miles (119 kilometers) away after being fired from an M777 howitzer, far beyond the range of standard 155 mm artillery rounds.

Extending artillery range without rockets

One of the most notable aspects of the GA-EMS design is its ability it achieve extended range without relying on rocket assistance. Most modern long-range artillery rounds use rocket motors to extend their reach after launch. General Atomics has instead developed a glide-based approach that employs deployable wings and advanced aerodynamic design to travel farther while remaining compatible with existing artillery systems.

According to the company, the projectile can be fired from legacy cannons and loaders already in service, potentially allowing the Army to increase battlefield range without replacing large portions of its artillery fleet.

The design also incorporates redundant guidance systems and maneuvering capabilities. Unlike conventional artillery shells that largely follow a fixed ballistic trajectory, maneuvering projectiles can alter their course during flight, improving accuracy and increasing survivability against countermeasures.

Designed for GPS-denied battlefields

Future conflicts may occur in environments where satellite navigation systems are degraded, jammed, or entirely unavailable. The new projectile must retain the ability to engage targets even when GPS signals cannot be used. General Atomics says its munition includes advanced guidance technologies designed to maintain precision under those conditions.

That capability is becoming increasingly important as high-tech electronic warfare systems have the ability to disrupt navigation, communications, and targeting networks across large areas of the battlefield.

According to reports, the Army’s 2024 ERAP solicitation stated that future projectiles should be capable of engaging a broad range of targets, including infantry fighting vehicles, self-propelled artillery, multiple-launch rocket systems, air defense systems, main battle tanks, and even maritime targets.

Significance and broader push of long-range artillery   

Over the past decade, the service has invested heavily in programs designed to increase the range of cannon artillery, missiles, and hypersonic weapons. The goal is to allow US forces to strike targets from greater distances while reducing exposure to enemy fire.

General Atomics has also attracted interest from other branches of the military. In late 2024, the US Navy selected the company to continue development of a maritime version of the projectile, highlighting the technology’s potential beyond traditional land warfare.

In a major structural realignment aimed at maximizing rapid deployment capabilities, the United States Army has officially converted a key cold-weather cavalry unit into a dedicated airborne assault force.

The strategic transition, executed within the 11th Airborne Division based in Alaska, shifts the unit’s operational focus from ground-based reconnaissance to high-mobility vertical insertions.

This pivot is specifically designed to project power across two highly challenging environments: the frozen terrain of the Arctic and the sprawling, island-dotted waters of the Indo-Pacific region.

The restructuring centers on the inactivation of the 1st Squadron, 40th Cavalry Regiment, a unit long trained in specialized cold-weather scouting and ground reconnaissance. In its place, the Army has activated the 3rd Battalion, 509th Infantry Regiment.

While the personnel remain stationed in the critical sub-Arctic theater, their core tactical mandate has been completely overhauled, turning them into a light, paratrooper-driven infantry asset that can be air-dropped into austere locations at a moment’s notice.

Shifting focus to vertical mobility

Traditional cavalry units rely heavily on ground vehicles, such as light armored transports and tactical trucks, to scout ahead of main forces and screen large geographic sectors. However, the unique geography of the Arctic—defined by extreme permafrost, shifting mountain ranges, and a lack of developed road infrastructure—frequently limits the mobility of heavy wheeled or tracked vehicles.

Similarly, the Indo-Pacific theater demands a force that can bypass vast oceanic stretches to quickly seize isolated airfields or secure contested coastal bridgeheads.

By transitioning into an airborne light infantry configuration, the battalion eliminates its dependence on heavy ground transport. The unit can now pack its entire operational footprint into long-range military transport aircraft, allowing forces to deploy via parachute directly onto objectives.

This vertical mobility ensures that the 11th Airborne Division can insert a combat-ready force into remote regions without roads, providing commanders with a rapid-response option for sudden regional crises.

Strategic alignment and global readiness

The re-designation is more than a change in naming conventions; it represents a comprehensive overhaul of the unit’s training pipeline and logistics. The transformed battalion will undergo rigorous airborne qualification cycles, focusing on cold-weather parachute operations and small-unit tactics tailored for high-altitude or sub-zero environments.

This specialized preparation ensures that the soldiers can operate effectively immediately after landing, maintaining structural cohesion despite harsh environmental stressors.

Military leadership noted that this transformation directly aligns with the broader defense strategy of maintaining a highly agile, lethal force capable of multi-domain operations. As global interests intensify across both the Arctic shipping lanes and Indo-Pacific maritime borders, the availability of a modernized, air-droppable infantry unit based in Alaska bridges a critical logistical gap.

The successful activation of the 3rd Battalion, 509th Infantry Regiment establishes a flexible, highly scalable framework for projecting American military readiness into the world’s most isolated geographic corridors.