Shield AI has secured a U.S. Air Force production contract to deploy its Hivemind autonomy software as part of the service’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, marking a key step in the military’s effort to field autonomous wingmen alongside crewed fighters.

The award reflects the Air Force’s effort to build a common autonomy software foundation that can be integrated across multiple Collaborative Combat Aircraft designs instead of being developed for a single platform. Officials believe that approach can accelerate upgrades, lower integration costs, and allow new capabilities to reach operational units faster.

Shield AI’s Hivemind software will support the Air Force’s vision for autonomous aircraft that can operate in coordination with human pilots while handling increasingly complex missions.

Software-centric autonomy strategy

The Air Force has adopted a software-first model for its future autonomous fleet. Under this framework, mission autonomy software can evolve independently from the aircraft carrying it.

That separation allows developers to introduce new capabilities without redesigning airframes or modifying platform-specific hardware. The approach also enables the service to evaluate autonomy solutions on their own merits while preserving competition across the broader CCA ecosystem.

Christian Gutierrez, senior vice president of Hivemind at Shield AI, said mission autonomy will play a central role in future airpower operations. “The Air Force’s approach enables faster innovation, rapid capability deployment, and greater operational advantage for the warfighter,” Gutierrez said.

He added that Shield AI plans to continue working closely with the service to deliver collaborative autonomy capabilities at scale.

Multi-aircraft teaming focus

Under the production contract, Shield AI will concentrate on collaborative combat behaviors involving multiple autonomous aircraft operating together under human supervision. The company aims to reduce operator workload while enabling larger groups of unmanned systems to coordinate actions during missions.

Such capabilities could become increasingly important as the Air Force expands its use of autonomous platforms in contested environments. Rather than simply following predetermined routes, Hivemind allows unmanned aircraft to adapt to changing conditions.

The software can adjust flight paths, react to emerging threats, coordinate with nearby aircraft, and support mission objectives without constant operator input. The company says the platform is designed to function as a digital pilot, helping autonomous systems make decisions in real time while remaining part of a broader human-machine team.

Expanding CCA development

The latest award builds on Shield AI’s existing involvement in the Air Force’s CCA efforts. Earlier this year, the company earned selection as a mission autonomy provider during the program’s Technology Maturation and Risk Reduction phase. That work continues alongside the new production effort.

Hivemind is currently flying aboard Anduril’s YFQ-44A aircraft, one of the platforms supporting ongoing CCA development activities. The Air Force views collaborative combat aircraft as a cornerstone of its future force structure.

By pairing autonomous aircraft with crewed fighters, the service hopes to increase combat capacity, extend operational reach, and provide commanders with more flexible options during future conflicts. As development advances, software platforms such as Hivemind are expected to play a critical role in determining how effectively autonomous aircraft operate alongside human pilots.

The U.S. Army has awarded defense and technology company Palladyne AI two contracts to test its AI-powered swarm software and reusable strike drone with soldiers during field exercises in Colorado and California.

The contracts, awarded under the Army’s Disruptive Applications Broad Agency Announcement, will support operational validation of the company’s SwarmOS autonomy platform and the Gremlin-X unmanned aerial vehicle.

The technologies will be evaluated by soldiers from the Army’s 4th Infantry Division during reconnaissance and target acquisition exercises. Palladyne AI said the demonstrations will use Army-specified platforms and the Android Team Awareness Kit (ATAK), a command-and-control system widely used by U.S. forces.

The effort reflects the Army’s growing interest in autonomous systems that can operate in environments where communications are limited or disrupted.

One operator, many drones

SwarmOS is an autonomy software stack designed to allow a single operator to control multiple autonomous systems from different manufacturers at the same time.

According to the Utah-based company, the software runs on edge hardware and is designed to function in degraded or denied communications environments. Rather than relying on centralized control infrastructure, the platform enables autonomous systems to coordinate with one another while operating in the field.

“The hardest problem in autonomous systems isn’t making one platform smart, it’s making heterogeneous platforms from different manufacturers collaborate intelligently without dependence on centralized infrastructure that adversaries can target and defeat,” said Dr. Denis Garagic, Chief Technology Officer and Principal Investigator, Palladyne AI.

He added: “We solved that.”

The Army exercises will evaluate how the software supports reconnaissance and target acquisition missions while integrating with existing military command-and-control tools.

Reusable strike drone

The second technology being tested is Gremlin-X, a Group 2 multirotor drone being developed as a reusable loitering munition.

Unlike traditional loitering munitions that are typically lost after striking a target, Gremlin-X is designed to return and be recovered after a mission. The company said this approach could reduce costs because only the munition payload would need replacement rather than the entire aircraft.

Gremlin-X is intended to operate in denied, degraded, intermittent, and limited communications environments, often referred to as DDIL conditions. The drone is being developed to support small, dispersed military formations that may need to engage targets without relying on centralized command networks.

Beyond the 4th Infantry Division exercises, Palladyne AI plans to demonstrate SwarmOS, IntelliSwarm, and Gremlin-X during Northern Strike 26-2, a large U.S. military training exercise involving more than 9,000 participants.

“This contract marks a decisive shift in how the U.S. Army is engaging with autonomous systems, moving from evaluation to funded operational use in the field,” said Doug Dynes, President of Palladyne Aerospace and Defense.

The company said the demonstrations will help validate the technologies in operational settings and could support future defense opportunities as the military continues exploring autonomous systems, drone swarms, and human-machine teaming concepts for battlefield operations.

Kelly Hammett’s departure comes as the Space Rapid Capabilities Office is being realigned under the Space Force

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The U.S. Navy has awarded defense technology startup Castelion its first production contract for the Blackbeard hypersonic missile. This $23.4 million deal includes 50 pre-production missiles and shows the Navy is ready to move the program past development and testing.

This contract comes as the Pentagon looks for faster, more affordable hypersonic weapons for long-range strikes. For Castelion, it is the first step toward making Blackbeard at a scale that could support future military missions.

Navy moves Blackbeard toward operational service

The contract helps further develop the Blackbeard weapon system and expands manufacturing at Castelion’s Project Ranger site in Rio Rancho, New Mexico.

Blackbeard is designed to be a low-cost, easy-to-produce hypersonic missile capable of exceeding Mach 5, or over 3,800 mph (6,100 km/h). At these speeds, it can cover long distances quickly and is much harder to intercept than traditional weapons.

Most of the work for this contract will happen in Rio Rancho, with some activities in Torrance, California. Castelion expects to finish the work in 2027.

This new contract shows increasing confidence in the program as it moves from flight testing to limited production and future deployment.

“Blackbeard was designed from the beginning to support our nation’s conventional deterrence,” Castelion Co-Founder and CEO Bryon Hargis said in a press statement.

“This award reflects the Navy’s continued commitment to rapidly advancing affordable, manufacturable long-range strike capability and moving Blackbeard toward early operational use.”

Series of major contracts accelerates program

This production contract comes after several major government deals Castelion has won this year.

In February, the company received a contract worth almost $50 million to accelerate development and produce prototypes of the Blackbeard system. This funding was intended to support testing and prepare the program for future needs.

Two months later, in April, Castelion landed another big contract worth $107 million. This deal aims to integrate Blackbeard with the Navy’s F/A-18 fighter jets, giving the missile more ways to be used.

These back-to-back contracts show the program is gaining momentum as the Navy looks for new ways to use hypersonic weapons on different platforms.

Expanding launch options beyond aircraft

The company is also working on new ways to launch Blackbeard, which could make it more flexible in operations.

The company has teamed up with defense tech firm Saronic to put the missile on the Marauder unmanned surface vessel. They plan a demonstration in 2027, which could be the first time a hypersonic weapon is launched from an unmanned surface ship.

If the test works, it will show a new way to use hypersonic weapons from unmanned naval platforms, without needing a crew.

Project Ranger becomes production hub

To support its long-term manufacturing plans, the defense firm has put over $250 million into Project Ranger, its large production campus in New Mexico.

The facility covers about 1,000 acres (405 hectares) and is the main site for Castelion’s push to make hypersonic weapons more cheaply and in bigger numbers than traditional methods. The new Navy contract will help grow production at the site and support the delivery of the first 50 pre-production missiles.

Europe-based ArianeGroup has unveiled a new family of strike weapons with ballistic and hypersonic delivery vehicles. The team behind the strike weapons includes Soframe and Thales, which are also developing the X-Fire rocket system.

The B-Strike weapon will come in two variants, one capable of hitting targets up to 621 miles (1,000 kilometers), and the other an extended-range version with a range of 1,553 miles (2,500 km). The missile family was unveiled at Eurosatory 2026.

B-Strike weapon suite capabilities

The ballistic missiles aim to provide Europe with indigenous deep-strike capabilities that can foil advanced defenses and engage targets from an extended range. Reports state that both versions of the missile would include maneuverable reentry vehicles (MaRVs).

Moreover, the 1,553-mile-range variant could also incorporate hypersonic glide vehicles (HGVs) that can enhance the survivability of the weapon against modern air defense systems. Although yet to be tested, the preliminary figures state that the 621-mile-range version would have a flight time of less than 10 minutes, and it will be approximately 15 minutes for the other.

The company says that both missiles could be deployed by the X-Fire launcher. Soframe developed the X-Fire launcher in partnership with Thales; it is mounted on the proven Daimler Truck Zetros platform.

The two missiles will complement the FLP-t 150, a 93-mile (150 kilometers) range munition, which ArianeGroup has developed with Thales. The 93-mile-range missile system is designed to meet the requirements of the French forces for high-intensity combat.

According to reports, the companies are ready to move quickly into the testing phase. They are pitching the missile to the French procurement agency, the DGA, to start the program.

More about FLP-t 150 and French M51 missiles

In May 2026, Thales and ArianeGroup successfully conducted the first firing of the new ballistic munition FLP-t 150. It had been carried out with support from the Missile Testing Division of the French Defense Procurement Agency (DGA EM) at the Ile du Levant test site.

While Thales was responsible for the overall system, including the ground launcher, fire control, and launch system, ArianeGroup developed the propulsion and guidance systems for the munition.

The missile has the ability to reach supersonic speeds, and its propulsion, guidance, and control are derived from ballistic missile systems.

Moreover, ArianeGroup is also the prime industrial contractor for the M51 intercontinental ballistic missile system on behalf of the French DGA for the French Navy. The M51 is a sea–surface submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) with a length of 39 feet (12 meters) and a weight of over 55 tons (50 metric tons).

The missile can be launched from a submerged French nuclear ballistic missile submarine (SSBN). It reaches a top speed of Mach 20 upon re-entering the atmosphere and serves as the naval pillar of France’s nuclear deterrent force.

The company plans to deliver a fuel-transfer vehicle to the U.S. Space Force by 2028

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At the Eurosatory 2026 defense exposition, Franco-German defense consortium KNDS officially introduced its Long-Range Artillery System (LORAS), a 155mm self-propelled howitzer featuring a barrel longer than any current NATO production standard.

Engineered to push the boundaries of conventional unguided fire, the system achieves a baseline range of exactly 60 kilometers (37 miles) using standard, non-rocket-assisted high-explosive ammunition.

The strategic design goal is to provide frontline units with deep-strike capabilities while completely avoiding the high financial costs associated with specialized precision-guided or rocket-assisted projectile (RAP) munitions.

The physical architecture of the LORAS platform represents a collaborative integration of French and German armored vehicle technology. The base vehicle uses a tracked variant of the Boxer armored chassis, paired with KNDS Germany’s fully automated, unmanned Artillery Gun Module (AGM) turret.

Housed within this remote turret is the system’s core innovation: a specialized 58-caliber gun tube developed and manufactured by KNDS France at its specialized metallurgy facilities in Bourges.

Overcoming internal ballistic wear bottleneck

Increasing the length of an artillery barrel historically creates severe engineering bottlenecks, particularly in managing internal pressure and preventing rapid barrel wear. As the length moves from the current European standard of 52 calibers up to 58 calibers, the friction and thermal stress generated by expanding propellant gases can rapidly degrade the interior rifling of the gun tube.

To mitigate this issue, KNDS engineers designed a significantly larger internal combustion chamber compared to previous long-range experimental platforms, such as the U.S. Army’s canceled Extended Range Cannon Artillery (ERCA) program.

According to technical specifications released by KNDS France, this enlarged chamber volume creates a much gentler internal pressure curve during detonation. This design choice maintains high muzzle velocity while minimizing destructive thermal erosion inside the tube.

To safely feed this system, KNDS overhauled the automated ammunition-handling layout. While the mechanism borrows mechanical components from the proven Panzerhaubitze 2000, the overall electronics, internal sensors, and modular charge loaders are entirely new.

Custom ammunition ecosystem

To achieve its targeted 37-mile range, the LORAS howitzer requires a distinct propulsion configuration. The system accommodates up to eight modular propellant charges simultaneously, outclassing the six-charge maximum limit of the wheeled Caesar system.

While the 58-caliber barrel remains fully backward-compatible with legacy 52-caliber NATO ammunition, firing older rounds will not yield the extended range benefits. Consequently, KNDS France is self-funding the development of a complete family of proprietary 58-caliber conventional shells, spanning high-explosive, smoke, and illumination variants.

Looking forward, KNDS has already conducted successful live-fire trials using an early prototype layout. While the program is currently self-funded, it received early design validation from France’s Directorate General for Armament (DGA).

Project managers state that while the barrel can theoretically hit ranges of 100 kilometers when paired with future ramjet or precision-gliding shells, the company is prioritizing standard unguided munitions to keep high-volume artillery operations economically sustainable. KNDS targets full serial manufacturing readiness for the system between 2032 and 2035.

Australia is accelerating efforts to protect frontline troops from the growing threat of small drones, awarding a contract to defense technology firm OpenWorks under the Australian Defence Force’s Land 156 counter-drone program.

The company will supply its Vision Guard intelligent optics system for evaluation as part of the ADF’s AU$1.3 billion initiative to strengthen defenses against uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). Military planners intend to use the compact platform as an early-warning capability for dismounted soldiers operating in contested environments.

The move reflects a broader shift among Western militaries toward distributed counter-drone systems. Recent conflicts have highlighted how inexpensive commercial and military-grade drones can threaten troops far from traditional air defense coverage.

Frontline use

OpenWorks designed Vision Guard to give soldiers rapid situational awareness without adding significant weight to their equipment. The system combines panoramic surveillance with artificial intelligence-driven detection software to identify and track small drones at extended distances.

Operators can deploy the system in less than two minutes, allowing units to establish surveillance positions quickly. OpenWorks says troops can carry the core equipment and supporting sensors inside a standard military backpack.

The platform supports multiple sensor configurations. Users can integrate active and passive detection technologies, including radar and acoustic sensors, depending on mission requirements. OpenWorks’ software then fuses data from those sensors to improve detection accuracy and reduce operator workload.

The company developed the system with strict size, weight, and power requirements in mind. That approach allows small units to operate independently while maintaining awareness of nearby aerial threats.

AI-powered drone detection

At the center of Vision Guard is OpenWorks’ proprietary artificial intelligence engine. The software analyzes incoming sensor data and automatically classifies potential threats. The system focuses on detecting and identifying Class 1 drones, which are among the smallest categories of military and commercial unmanned aircraft.

Despite their size, these drones have become a persistent battlefield challenge because they are inexpensive, difficult to detect, and increasingly capable. By providing early warning, Vision Guard aims to give troops additional time to respond before a drone can conduct surveillance or deliver an attack.

Defense organizations across Europe and the United States have already tested or deployed the technology. The system also participated in Project Vanaheim, a joint U.K.-U.S. experimentation effort that examined future approaches to interoperable counter-drone operations.

Growing counter-drone demand

The Australian contract comes as militaries worldwide increase investment in layered counter-UAS networks. Rather than relying solely on large strategic assets, defense planners increasingly seek portable systems that can move with frontline forces.

James Cross, chief commercial officer at OpenWorks, said the company recognizes the responsibility associated with supporting the Australian military’s modernization efforts. He described Vision Guard as a compact system designed to improve situational awareness for dispersed units. Cross added that OpenWorks is proud to support Australia’s efforts to strengthen counter-drone capabilities.

As drone threats continue to evolve, defense programs such as Land 156 are expected to play a key role in shaping the next generation of battlefield surveillance and force protection technologies.

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.

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.

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.

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.