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.

A former coal mining site in central Illinois is now being used for renewable energy. Nexamp and TurningPoint Energy have finished two community solar projects in Woodford County, turning land that once produced coal into a solar power facility that provides electricity to local customers and businesses.

The site near Minonk was once part of the Colchester Coal Seam mining region, active from the late 1800s to the mid-1900s. Now, it has almost 17,000 solar panels that can generate 9.8 megawatts of electricity, enough for hundreds of subscribers and to add clean power to the local grid.

These projects are the first time Nexamp and TurningPoint Energy have worked together in Illinois. They are also the first Illinois Shines community solar projects in Woodford County.

Reclaimed mining land finds a new purpose

The solar panels were installed on a former coal mine that is considered a brownfield under Illinois Shines, the state’s solar incentive program. This certification encourages developers to use land that has already been disturbed, rather than farmland or untouched areas.

TurningPoint Energy handled project development, while Nexamp was responsible for construction and now owns and operates the facilities.

The solar farms together cover about 40 acres and send electricity straight into Commonwealth Edison’s network. Nexamp says all the solar panels were made in the United States, which supports local clean energy supply chains and brings new economic value to land that used to be tied to fossil fuels.

Advanced software helps manage solar generation

The Minonk projects also bring new grid management technology to the area. They are among the first projects on ComEd’s system to use Distributed Energy Resource Management Systems (DERMS).

This software enables utilities to monitor and manage energy resources, such as solar panels, in real time. As more renewable energy connects to the grid, it becomes harder for utilities to balance supply and demand. DERMS helps by providing better control and visibility into how energy flows.

Using this technology, the projects show that renewable energy can help keep the grid reliable and help utilities prepare for more clean energy in the future.

Hundreds of households already enrolled

Many people in the community have signed up. The projects are almost full, with over 650 customers already enrolled.

One of the solar farms provides power to about 450 homes. The other serves around 200 low-income households, making community solar more accessible and helping these families save on electricity costs.

Community solar is different from rooftop solar because customers can join a shared project and get credits on their utility bills without having to install anything at home. This makes solar power available to renters, apartment dwellers, and homeowners whose roofs are not suitable for solar panels.

Major institutions strengthen project economics

Big organizations are also helping make the projects successful. Rush University Medical Center and the College of DuPage have joined as customers and together use about 40 percent of the projects’ electricity.

Their involvement creates steady demand, supporting the community solar model and helping bring renewable energy to more people.

“This is exactly the kind of project we aspire to deliver with our partners and our customers,” said Nexamp CEO Zaid Ashai. “By turning a former coal mine into a pair of community solar farms, we are helping hundreds of subscribers reduce their energy costs today while strengthening their energy security for the long term.”

“By pairing that affordability with US-manufactured equipment and advanced grid tools like DERMS, these Minonk projects not only put clean power within reach for households and institutions; they also show how community solar can make the grid smarter, more resilient, and better prepared for Illinois’ clean energy future.”

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.

Sweden’s Videberg Kraft selected Rolls-Royce SMR to supply three small modular reactors (SMRs) for a planned nuclear power station on the Värö Peninsula near the existing Ringhals nuclear plant. The decision, announced by state-owned energy company Vattenfall, marks a key milestone in what is set to become Sweden’s first new nuclear power project in more than four decades.

The new plant is expected to add about 1.5 gigawatts of electricity to Sweden’s grid, with the first reactor planned to start running in the mid-2030s. By choosing Rolls-Royce SMR, Sweden becomes the third European country to select this technology, after the United Kingdom and the Czech Republic.

Three-year review narrows field to final two contenders

Videberg Kraft, owned by Vattenfall and Industrikraft, made its decision after three years of reviewing 75 possible reactor options. In the end, the decision came down to two technologies: the pressurized water reactor from Rolls-Royce SMR and the BWRX-300 reactor from GE Vernova Hitachi.

The new plant, called the Videberg Project, will be built next to the Ringhals nuclear power station, one of Sweden’s main electricity sources. When finished, the reactors should help secure Sweden’s energy supply and meet rising demand for electricity.

Desirée Comstedt, acting CEO of Videberg Kraft, pointed out the strong network of companies working with the British reactor developer.

“Rolls-Royce SMR offers a robust network of subcontractors, the majority of which are located in our geographical vicinity. By choosing to move forward with Rolls-Royce SMR, Videberg Kraft and its owner companies also become part of a European program, where we can benefit from shared experience.”

Familiar reactor technology seen as key advantage

Company leaders said that the proven track record of the chosen reactor technology was a key reason for their decision.

Anna Borg, Board member of Videberg Kraft and CEO of Vattenfall, said:

“Overall, the board’s assessment is that Rolls-Royce SMR is the supplier that can give Videberg Kraft the best prerequisites for delivering a successful project. The reactor, a pressurized water reactor (PWR), is the same type used at Ringhals today and is a well-proven technology. Moreover, Rolls-Royce SMR has a commercially attractive contractual set-up.”

Tom Erixon, a board member of Videberg Kraft and Industrikraft, also stressed the project’s focus on industrial methods.

“Rolls-Royce SMR offers an efficient and industrialized concept that reduces the risk of delays. Videberg Kraft, together with Rolls-Royce SMR, is now paving the way for a new nuclear power on the Värö peninsula – something that would not have been possible without a historically unique collaboration between Swedish industry and the energy sector.”

Rolls-Royce expands European nuclear footprint

The Swedish decision gives Rolls-Royce SMR even more momentum as it expands in Europe.

Chris Cholerton, CEO of Rolls-Royce SMR, said, “We are delighted to have been selected by Videberg Kraft as its partner to bring new nuclear power to Sweden. This is a strong endorsement of our transformational approach to the delivery of a standardized fleet of SMRs … [and] further demonstrates growing market confidence in our technology.”

The company’s reactor design can generate 470 megawatts of electricity and is built to provide steady power for at least 60 years. Much of the plant will be made in factories and then brought to the site for assembly. This method aims to reduce construction risks and accelerate the project. Nuclear energy is seeing a revival across Sweden.

This news comes as Sweden is working to speed up the development of its nuclear power. In 2022, the new center-right government became more supportive of nuclear energy. The next year, a roadmap was released calling for new nuclear capacity equal to at least two large reactors by 2035 and up to ten by 2045.

Government support programs introduced in August 2025 have already drawn interest from several developers. Videberg Kraft was the first to apply for state aid in December. More recently, Blykalla, a Swedish reactor developer, asked for funding for a six-reactor project in Norrsundet, and Studsvik submitted plans for up to 1,400 megawatts of new nuclear capacity in southern Sweden.

France is moving forward with its next-generation nuclear cruise missile, taking a big step in modernizing its airborne nuclear deterrent. The country’s defense procurement agency recently announced it had given MBDA a contract to develop the ASN4G hypersonic missile. This new weapon is expected to enter service around 2035 and will replace the current ASMPA-R missile.

This announcement comes after the Direction générale de l’armement (DGA) formally notified the framework agreement and development contract on June 2. The program is now moving from years of research and concept studies to full-scale development.

France advances next-generation nuclear missile

The Air-Sol Nucléaire de 4ème Génération, or ASN4G, will be the next airborne nuclear strike weapon for the French armed forces. MBDA, a European missile manufacturer, is developing the missile as a key part of France’s long-term defense modernization plans in the 2024-2030 military programming law.

MBDA is owned by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo. The company has worked for years with France’s national aerospace research center, ONERA, to study possible designs for the new weapon.

The ASN4G is meant to replace the ASMPA-R, the latest version of France’s nuclear-capable air-launched cruise missile. Although the ASMPA-R is still in use, defense planners have been preparing for its replacement as air defense systems worldwide improve.

According to the DGA, the new missile’s high speed will help keep France’s airborne nuclear deterrent effective and credible as threats become more advanced. The agency called the program a major technological leap that depends on specialized industrial skills found in only a few countries.

[#Programme ] La DGA commande le développement du missile hypersonique ASN4G à MBDA

La DGA a notifié, le 2 juin 2026 à @MBDAGroup, l’accord cadre de réalisation et le marché de développement du missile Air-Sol nucléaire de quatrième génération #ASN4G pic.twitter.com/4kRTzdNOh1

— Direction générale de l'armement (@DGA) June 12, 2026

Hypersonic approach selected after years of studies

French researchers evaluated two competing concepts before selecting the final direction for the ASN4G program. One idea was a stealthy ramjet-powered missile designed to be less detectable by radar. The other focused on hypersonic speed and advanced maneuverability. After many studies, the hypersonic option was chosen.

MBDA previously explained that extreme speed combined with the ability to maneuver in flight gives important advantages. These features can shorten warning times, make radar tracking more difficult, and make it harder for enemy air defenses to intercept the missile.

While the official details are still classified, defense experts think the ASN4G will use scramjet propulsion. It is also expected to fly much faster than the ASMPA-R, which can reach about Mach 3 and has a range of around 311 miles (500 kilometers).

The DGA also shared a new image related to the Thémis technology demonstrator. The picture showed a winged vehicle rising into the air with the help of two booster rockets. However, officials did not say when or where the test took place, and details about the Thémis program remain limited.

Conformément à la loi de programmation militaire, la DGA travaille à la modernisation de la composante nucléaire aéroportée

Le missile ASN4G remplacera le missile ASMPA rénové actuellement en service

— Direction générale de l'armement (@DGA) June 12, 2026

Rafale F5 to carry the new hypersonic weapon

The ASN4G is being developed together with the future Rafale F5 fighter, which is expected to enter service around 2030.

France chose to fund the Rafale F5 program on its own after talks about sharing costs with the United Arab Emirates ended in December 2025.

When it becomes operational, the missile will be used by both branches of France’s airborne nuclear force. These are the Forces Aériennes Stratégiques (FAS), which is the nuclear part of the French Air and Space Force, and the Force Aéronavale Nucléaire (FANu), which flies Rafale M fighters from the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle.

Nuclear deterrence gains greater strategic role

The ASN4G contract comes as France is placing greater emphasis on the airborne component of its nuclear deterrent strategy.

On March 2, 2026, President Emmanuel Macron announced a new deterrence plan that could see nuclear-capable Rafale aircraft deployed to allied bases across Europe. This idea shows France’s growing concern about regional security and the need for a more flexible deterrence approach.

France is also growing its nuclear aviation force. The FAS plans to double its number of nuclear-capable squadrons by 2035, aided by the return of a nuclear mission at Luxeuil Air Base.

A new mobile space surveillance radar is now active as military planners focus more on tracking potential threats in orbit, including satellites used for nuclear command, control, and intelligence. LeoLabs, a space monitoring company, announced that its latest radar, Scout Hawaii, began operating and will take part in the Valiant Shield 2026 exercise in the Pacific.

This is the first time the company’s Scout-S radar has been used in the field. It is designed to better track objects in low Earth orbit (LEO) and very low Earth orbit (VLEO).

Radar heads to major Pacific military exercise

Valiant Shield is a major joint military exercise held every two years by the United States in the Indo-Pacific. Since 2024, regional allies have also taken part.

This year’s exercise will take place from June 22 to July 1 in Hawaii, Guam, Japan, and nearby waters.

LeoLabs has not shared details about the contract for the radar’s participation. The company said the Scout-S program is funded by private investment and support from the US Space Force, including a Tactical Funding Increase (TACFI) award announced in 2025.

The company views the exercise as an opportunity to test the radar in real-world conditions and demonstrate how it can support military space awareness missions.

A new class of radar is here.

Scout-S delivers persistent custody, dynamic tracking, and deployable sensing for LEO and VLEO — extending coverage where mission demand is greatest.

It's more than a radar. It’s a new approach to space sensing.

Deploy Where the Mission Demands. pic.twitter.com/If1pt0N2E9

— LeoLabs (@LeoLabs_Space) June 10, 2026

Built for rapid deployment anywhere

One of the key features of the Scout-S system is its mobility. The radar fits in a standard 20-foot shipping container, so it can be moved by truck, plane, or ship.

The system uses 3D scanning, direct-radiating-array technology, and a modular S-band electronic system. LeoLabs said these features help the radar find and track objects in busy orbital areas.

A company spokesperson said the improved design greatly increases how long the radar can observe a satellite as it passes by.

From snapshots to continuous tracking

Traditional tracking systems usually watch satellites for only short periods before waiting for the next pass. LeoLabs said Scout-S is built to provide much longer observation periods, helping operators track objects in orbit more continuously.

The company thinks this feature is more important now that military and commercial satellites can maneuver more often.

“The acceleration of adversarial activity in space is challenging U.S. and Allied Space Superiority. Tracking objects periodically to predict orbits is no longer enough. What matters now is the ability to maintain persistent custody of maneuverable payloads so our customers can respond to emerging threats,” said LeoLabs CEO Tony Frazier in the release.

The design also allows multiple units to be deployed quickly, helping to cover surveillance gaps that fixed radar sites cannot easily reach.

Tracking Chinese satellites and future expansion

Scout Hawaii is already sending data to LeoLabs’ global monitoring network. The company said the radar has consistently tracked Chinese intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance satellites, including the Yaogan military spacecraft.

According to the firm, the system has tracked China’s reusable spaceplane in low Earth orbit. The radar has also shown it can monitor objects flying at very low altitudes. The company reported successfully tracking an object orbiting at 143 miles (230 kilometers) above Earth.

The firm plans to keep the Hawaii-based radar running after Valiant Shield ends, using it for more experiments and testing new features. The company also said a second Scout-S unit should be built by early 2027, with more production expected later that year.

A possible agreement to end the war between the United States and Iran was announced late Sunday by U.S. President Donald Trump and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

The deal includes stopping military actions, reopening the Strait of Hormuz, and eventually lifting U.S. restrictions on Iranian ports. Still, Iran’s nuclear program, a key issue, has not been settled and will be discussed in future talks.

The agreement is expected to be officially signed in Switzerland on Friday. News of the deal quickly affected global markets, sending oil prices down and Asian stock markets higher.

Ceasefire framework signals end to active fighting

The U.S. president announced the agreement on his Truth Social platform at about 5:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, saying, “The Deal with the Islamic Republic of Iran is now complete.” His statement came after Sharif spoke, as Pakistan has helped mediate the talks.

Although all the details have not yet been shared, Sharif said the agreement includes “the immediate and permanent termination of military operations on all fronts, including in Lebanon.”

Iran’s Supreme National Security Council later confirmed that military operations would stop for good starting Monday night. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Kazem Gharibabadi said negotiators will use a 60-day ceasefire to work toward a broader agreement that could include easing sanctions and other long-term measures.

This announcement follows months of fighting that have killed thousands, mostly in Iran and Lebanon. After U.S. and Israeli attacks on Iran on February 28, Tehran struck Israel and Gulf countries with U.S. bases. Iran also blocked shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, and the U.S. responded by restricting Iranian ports.

A major result of the agreement is the planned reopening of the Strait of Hormuz, which is a key route for global oil and gas shipments. Trump said the waterway will reopen on Friday and that he has ordered the U.S. blockade of Iranian ports to end.

“Ships of the World, start your engines. Let the oil flow!” Trump wrote.

Nuclear dispute remains the biggest challenge

Even with this diplomatic progress, negotiators have delayed decisions about Iran’s nuclear activities.

According to Iranian officials, discussions during the ceasefire period will focus on sanctions relief and the future of Tehran’s nuclear program. Sources indicate that the issue remains among the most difficult issues facing both sides.

The dispute goes back years. During Trump’s first term, the U.S. withdrew from the 2015 nuclear deal negotiated under President Obama. After that, Iran increased its uranium enrichment and built up more than 400 kilograms (about 900 pounds) of uranium close to weapons-grade.

Former Biden administration State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller criticized the framework, saying: “We have no assurances the nuclear program will ever be addressed, but Iran has shown the world it can take the global economy hostage and get something from the U.S. in return.”

Republican Senator Lindsey Graham welcomed the ceasefire but stressed that future nuclear talks will be watched closely. “Under our law, any nuclear deal with Iran will be sent to Congress for review and a vote,” he said. “Congratulations to all on getting us to this point.”

As negotiators prepare for formal talks in Switzerland, the focus is now on whether the ceasefire will last and if both sides can agree on Iran’s nuclear future.

Saronic and Castelion, two defense technology companies, have announced plans to combine an autonomous warship with a hypersonic strike weapon. They said this is the first attempt to put a hypersonic vehicle on an unmanned surface vessel.

Castelion’s Blackbeard hypersonic system will be launched from Saronic’s Marauder medium unmanned surface vessel, with a demonstration at sea planned for 2027.

By combining an unmanned vessel with a hypersonic strike system, the companies hope to give commanders more choices for future naval missions.

Autonomous vessel meets hypersonic firepower

According to the agreement, Saronic’s Marauder unmanned vessel will launch Castelion’s Blackbeard hypersonic vehicle. The companies said this is an important step toward creating strike systems that work without crews on board.

“Launching a Castelion hypersonic from a Marauder MUSV significantly changes the approach for any adversary calculating where and how the U.S. can strike,” Dino Mavrookas, co-founder and CEO of Saronic, said in a statement. “Deterrence is ultimately a function of capability, capacity, and credibility. Saronic and Castelion are working to increase all three by combining autonomous maritime and hypersonic strike capabilities that are more scalable, more affordable, and faster to field.”

The idea is to equip autonomous ships with advanced weapons that can operate across large areas of the ocean. These ships could offer more launch points for weapons and help keep people out of danger.

Castelion is also increasing production of the Blackbeard system and plans to make several thousand missiles each year. Last October, the company said Blackbeard had won several awards to help it work with both Army and Navy platforms.

Blackbeard production ramps up

By producing more Blackbeard missiles, Castelion hopes to deploy the weapon across more branches of the military. The company says using Blackbeard with Marauder could make operations more flexible and easier to deploy.

“Blackbeard and Marauder will give our warfighters more shots, from more places, with fewer constraints,” Bryon Hargis, co-founder and CEO of Castelion, said in a statement.

This partnership comes as defense leaders look for ways to use more precision strike systems without raising costs. Autonomous ships capable of carrying advanced weapons are becoming an important part of this plan.

Marauder advances toward operational testing

The announcement arrives during a busy period for Saronic. The company is currently expanding a shipyard in Louisiana, a project expected to be completed by the end of this year. Once finished, the facility will have the capacity to produce up to 20 Marauder vessels annually.

Late in May, Saronic revealed that the 180-foot-long Marauder had entered on-water trials. The vessel is designed to carry payloads weighing up to 150 metric tons, giving it the capacity to support a range of military missions.

The U.S. Navy is also evaluating the platform. Last month, the service confirmed that Saronic was among seven companies selected for its MUSV marketplace initiative. Participants will conduct at-sea testing this summer, and those who successfully complete the evaluation phase by October will receive $15 million and become eligible for future production contracts.

Growing role for unmanned naval systems

Beyond Marauder, Saronic has developed several autonomous surface vessels, including the Corsair. According to the company, the vessel can transport payloads of up to 1,000 pounds over distances exceeding 1,000 nautical miles.

The Navy’s Task Force 59, which focuses on unmanned maritime operations in Bahrain, began fielding Corsair vessels in March. The platform recently played a role in a real-world rescue mission.

On Monday, U.S. Central Command said Navy units, including Task Force 59, assisted in rescuing two crew members from a US Army AH-64 Apache helicopter that went down near the coast of Oman.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins in North America, Hyundai Motor Company has launched its biggest mobility and robotics operation for a global sporting event. The company has sent over 1,500 vehicles and advanced robots to support logistics, security, and facility management in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

This project is a big step forward in Hyundai’s partnership with FIFA and shows how robotics and autonomous technology are becoming more common at large public events. Four custom Spot robot dogs from Boston Dynamics, which is owned by Hyundai Motor Group, are leading the effort.

Spot robot dogs head to World Cup venues

The main technology on show is four Spot robot dogs working at two key tournament locations. Hyundai confirmed the robots will be at the International Broadcast Center in Dallas and at stadiums in New York and New Jersey.

These robot dogs can navigate busy, complex spaces independently while performing different tasks. According to Hyundai, Spot will patrol, carry out real-time inspections, and help monitor areas where large crowds are expected during the tournament.

This is the first time Spot robot dogs are being used at a FIFA World Cup, making it an important milestone for Hyundai as FIFA’s Official Robotics Partner.

The company views the tournament as an opportunity to demonstrate how robots can help venue staff and security teams manage large crowds and complex event setups.

Wherever the game goes.

Hyundai is ready for the FIFA World Cup 2026 with its most advanced mobility fleet ever. From mobility solutions to SPOT, our four-legged security patrol, we're ready for kick-off.@FIFAWorldCup @BostonDynamics #Hyundai #NextStartsNow #Robotics pic.twitter.com/dUK6dZrFUq

— Hyundai Worldwide (@Hyundai_Global) June 5, 2026

Testing robotics beyond factory floors

Industrial robots have long been used in factories, where conditions are highly controlled. But event venues are much more unpredictable and challenging.

World Cup stadiums and broadcast centers will welcome thousands of visitors, staff, and media. These busy places are always changing, so robots need to move around people, obstacles, and ongoing events.

The tournament is a real-world test for autonomous technology in places where safety, reliability, and constant monitoring matter most. Experts see this as a key step in bringing robots into new roles beyond factories.

This move is part of a larger trend, as more tech companies look for practical ways to use autonomous systems in public places.

Fleet of more than 1,500 vehicles

In addition to its robotics program, the company is managing a large transportation effort to support logistics across all 16 host cities.

It is providing a fleet of 994 passenger vehicles and 506 buses. These vehicles transport teams, tournament officials, media representatives, and operational staff throughout the competition.

The fleet features a variety of Hyundai and Genesis models, so organizers can choose vehicles that meet their specific needs.

Selected vehicles are also available in hybrid versions as part of Hyundai’s broader push toward electrified mobility technologies.

Supporting the largest World Cup ever

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to be the biggest edition of the tournament in history, creating unprecedented transportation and operational demands across three countries.

Managing movement between venues, training facilities, hotels, and media centers will require extensive coordination. Hyundai’s combined deployment of vehicles and robotics is intended to help address those challenges while showcasing technologies that could play larger roles in future global events.

A recently released photograph offers a clear view of the construction of the future USS District of Columbia (SSBN-826), the first of the U.S. Navy’s new Columbia-class ballistic missile submarines. Shared online by Ashley Cowen, Lead Photographer at Newport News Shipbuilding, the image shows major parts of the submarine as work continues toward its planned delivery in 2029.

The photo shows both the bow and the stern sections under construction. These are key parts of the submarine and show that work on the Navy’s top-priority strategic deterrence program is making steady progress.

Key submarine sections take shape

The new image shows clear progress on the bow and stern sections of the submarine. The stern will later house the propulsion system and the unique X-shaped control surfaces, designed to help the submarine move and perform better underwater.

The sections seem to be inside General Dynamics Electric Boat’s South Yard Assembly Building or another large facility at the main shipyard in Groton, Connecticut.

The image arrives months after the arrival of the massive “Atlas” dry dock, which reached the shipyard in January 2026. This dry dock was built to support the construction, maintenance, and future servicing of Columbia-class submarines.

Ongoing deliveries of major submarine parts, hull sections, and support equipment indicate the program is on schedule as builders work to complete the first submarine in the class.

Designed to replace the Ohio-class fleet

The Columbia-class submarines are being built to replace the older Ohio-class ballistic missile submarines, which started service in the early 1980s. As the Ohio-class submarines retire through the early 2040s, the Columbia-class will take over the sea-based part of America’s nuclear deterrent.

Design work for the USS District of Columbia started in 2007, after the U.S. Navy partnered with General Dynamics Electric Boat to create a new class to follow the Ohio-class fleet.

The Navy describes the Columbia-class as being designed to survive better, be available for operations more often, and last longer than the previous class. These submarines are expected to stay in service until at least the 2080s.

This program is seen as one of the most important defense upgrades happening in the United States, since ballistic missile submarines are the most secure part of the country’s nuclear defense system.

Advanced technologies and larger design

The Columbia-class brings several big improvements over the Ohio-class submarines. These include quieter engines, better sonar, upgraded sensors, and new electronic controls for steering the submarine.

These submarines will also be larger than the Ohio-class submarines. When finished, each Columbia-class submarine will weigh more than 20,000 tons.

Even though the new submarines are larger, they will carry fewer missiles—16 UGM-133 Trident II D5 Life Extension submarine-launched ballistic missiles instead of the 24 Trident missiles on the Ohio-class. This change aligns with new strategic needs while maintaining a strong nuclear deterrent.

Each submarine will have four missile compartments, each holding four ballistic missiles.

Massive industrial effort supports construction

The Columbia-class submarines are built using a modular approach. Different contractors build large sections separately, and then these parts are put together at Electric Boat’s Groton facility.

Work is currently underway at Quonset Point, Rhode Island, with help from over 3,000 suppliers across the country. Newport News Shipbuilding makes the main bow and stern parts before they are sent to be added to the final hull.

The Navy plans to build a total of 12 Columbia-class submarines. Boats four through eight will be procured at a rate of one submarine per year over the next five years, with the program costing about $62 billion.

According to current plans, the USS District of Columbia will enter service in 2029, and the last submarine in the class should join the fleet around 2041 or 2042. Together, these submarines are expected to provide America’s sea-based nuclear deterrent for many years.

China has completed its largest offshore project, which combines solar power, hydrogen production, and energy storage. This marks a big step in the country’s efforts to create more reliable renewable energy systems. The project, off the coast of Rudong in East China’s Jiangsu Province, was reported as completed on Wednesday, according to China Media Group.

Funded by CHN Energy Guohua Energy Investment Co., the facility is described as China’s largest offshore solar demonstration project that combines solar power, hydrogen production, and energy storage.

Massive offshore facility combines multiple energy technologies

The Rudong project features 400,000 kilowatts (400 MW) of solar capacity and a new 220-kilovolt onshore booster station. It also includes a hydrogen production station capable of producing 1,500 standard cubic meters of hydrogen per hour, along with an electrochemical energy storage station.

According to Chinese media reports, this is the first project in China to combine power generation, hydrogen production, energy storage, full energy use, and coastal ecological management in one development.

The facility has been designed around what officials describe as an integrated “electricity-storage-hydrogen” model. Solar power made offshore can go to the grid, be stored in batteries, or be used to make hydrogen from water. This setup lets energy be used in different ways based on demand and conditions.

The project is built on coastal tidal flats, which are often considered suitable sites for large renewable energy projects. It also uses advanced solar technology and smart control systems to improve energy conversion and management.

China's largest integrated PV-hydrogen-storage project has completed construction in east China's Jiangsu Province. The project, with a total photovoltaic capacity of 400,000 kW, includes a newly built 220 kV onshore booster station, a hydrogen production facility with a… pic.twitter.com/gd2KuSPBkA

— People's Daily, China (@PDChina) June 10, 2026

Green hydrogen plays a central role

One important feature of the project is that it can make green hydrogen using electricity from renewable sources. By using solar power to split water into hydrogen and oxygen, the facility can store energy as hydrogen for later use.

The Nantong Daily reported earlier this year that the solar power station achieved full-capacity grid connection on April 29, 2025. When the whole project is running, the energy storage station will be able to supply 120,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity during peak demand each day.

Meanwhile, the hydrogen production facility is expected to generate up to 180 tons of green hydrogen each year. This hydrogen can be used by nearby industries, such as chemical manufacturing and transportation, that are looking for cleaner fuel options.

Officials say the finished solar, hydrogen, and storage facilities will operate as a closed-loop energy system covering generation, storage, use, and backup.

Experts highlight stability advantages

Lin Boqiang, director of the China Center for Energy Economics Research at Xiamen University, said that adding hydrogen and storage technologies can help address the problem of solar power’s volatility. He said the project shows that renewable energy is moving beyond just adding more power generation.

“Its completion marks a further step forward for China in the field of new-energy multi-energy complementarity,” he stated. He added that the project is now focused on energy conversion efficiency, integrating different energy sources, and making the system more stable, rather than just increasing capacity.

He also said that coastal regions often have strong wind and solar resources but still face inconsistent energy supply.

China scales up renewable hydrogen production

This project comes as China is rapidly expanding hydrogen production from renewable energy across the country. The National Energy Administration says the industry is moving from pilot projects to large-scale commercial use.

As of the end of March, completed and ongoing renewable hydrogen projects in China had a total production capacity of over 1 million tons per year. More than 250,000 tons per year are already in operation, which is more than double the capacity at the end of 2024. Projects under construction will add over 900,000 tons of annual capacity.

Lin noted that the long-term value of projects like Rudong will depend on reducing development costs and improving the efficiency of hydrogen production. Still, the new facility is one of the best examples to date of how solar power, energy storage, and hydrogen production can work together in a large-scale clean energy system.

A U.S. Navy unmanned surface vessel successfully rescued two Army pilots after their AH-64 Apache helicopter crashed near Oman on Monday. Officials describe it as the first known use of a drone boat in a real-world military search-and-rescue mission.

The rescue happened near the Strait of Hormuz, an important shipping route that has been a focus during the conflict between the United States and Iran. According to U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM), the two crew members were found in about two hours and are in stable condition.

The incident quickly got attention after President Donald Trump posted on social media that Iranian forces shot down the helicopter during a patrol. He also said the U.S. launched strikes against targets in Iran.

This rescue shows that autonomous systems are becoming more important in military missions, especially in dangerous areas at sea where quick action is needed.

Autonomous vessel takes on rescue role

A Corsair drone boat from the U.S. Navy’s Task Force 59 handled the rescue. This Bahrain-based group was set up to use more autonomous technology with regular military forces in the Middle East.

According to the U.S. Navy Captain Tim Hawkins, the drone boat found the two soldiers after they had been in the water for about two hours. CENTCOM said the rescue finished at 7:33 p.m. EDT on Monday.

“Rescue efforts were led by US Naval Forces Central Command and the 82nd Airborne Division, with support from US Air Force and Navy units including US 5th Fleet’s Task Force 59,” the statement added.

This operation demonstrated how unmanned vessels can help with missions usually done by helicopters, ships, or rescue teams. Military leaders have been looking into using autonomous systems for surveillance, logistics, and security, but this is the first time their use in rescuing people has been made public.

"I have just been informed by our Great Military that last night the Iranians shot down one of our highly sophisticated Apache Helicopters while patrolling over the Strait of Hormuz. There were two pilots involved, both are safe and uninjured. Nevertheless, the United States… pic.twitter.com/yMGXqG89ax

— The White House (@WhiteHouse) June 9, 2026

Corsair drone designed for long-range missions

The Corsair drone boat is made by Saronic Technologies, a defense company in Texas. It is 24 feet long, looks like a speedboat, and is designed to work at sea for long periods.

The company said the vessel can travel over 1,000 nautical miles while carrying up to 1,000 pounds (453.5 kilograms). It can also reach 35 knots.

The U.S. Navy has invested heavily in the platform. In December 2025, Saronic received a $392 million contract to provide Corsair autonomous vessels.

Task Force 59 started using the drones in the Middle East in late March, according to Hawkins. Since then, the vessels have been used in security operations throughout the region.

Growing importance of unmanned systems

This successful rescue comes as the U.S. military is increasingly using autonomous platforms in CENTCOM’s area of operations. Task Force 59 uses both sea- and air-based drones to improve surveillance and give commanders a clearer view of what is happening in the region.

Senior military leaders have often said unmanned systems help track threats and watch busy sea routes. Since the U.S.-Iran conflict began in March, commanders have stressed how drones help improve awareness at sea. The Apache rescue now adds another milestone to that record. 

NASA’s experimental X-59 quiet supersonic aircraft hit a major milestone. During a test flight over California’s Mojave Desert, it broke the sound barrier for the first time. This achievement brings NASA closer to changing the future of commercial supersonic travel.

The X-59 took off from Edwards Air Force Base at 11:08 a.m. PDT, piloted by NASA test pilot Jim “Clue” Less. After flying for 81 minutes, the aircraft landed safely, finishing its first supersonic flight and starting a new phase of testing.

First supersonic flight validates aircraft performance

During the June 5 flight, the X-59 climbed to 43,400 feet and went faster than the speed of sound. It reached Mach 1.077, almost Mach 1.1, which is about 713 mph.

An F-15 chase plane flew alongside the X-59 during the flight, watching its behavior and gathering data. Although the main goal of breaking the sound barrier was met, researchers could not record the X-59’s sound signature. The F-15’s sonic boom was too loud for the sensors, so they could not pick out the X-59’s unique sound.

Still, this flight was a big achievement for NASA and its engineers. Since its first flight in October, the X-59 has done 16 test flights at lower speeds. This latest mission showed that the aircraft works as expected when it goes supersonic.

Aircraft built to reduce sonic boom noise

The X-59 was built to solve a key problem of reducing the loud sonic booms that have prevented supersonic travel over land.

The X-59 looks different from other supersonic planes. It has a long, narrow body and a sharp, stretched-out nose. Engineers designed it this way to spread out the shock waves, rather than letting them combine into a single strong pressure wave.

Traditional supersonic planes make a loud boom when their shock waves hit the ground. The X-59 is designed to be much quieter. Instead of a thunderous noise, people on the ground should hear a softer sound, like a car door closing in the distance. That quieter acoustic footprint is central to NASA’s broader goals for the aircraft.

Data could influence future aviation regulations

The X-59 is part of NASA’s Quesst mission, which aims to collect real flight data and hear what the public thinks about quieter supersonic flights.

Current U.S. regulations prohibit commercial supersonic flights over land due to the sonic boom issue. These rules have been in place since 1973, when technology could not solve the noise problem.

NASA hopes the X-59 will show that quieter supersonic planes can fly without disturbing people on the ground. If regulators agree the noise is low enough, these results could help change old aviation rules. If the rules change, passenger planes could one day fly faster over land while still keeping noise at acceptable levels.

Next test flight targets higher speeds

NASA worked with Lockheed Martin Skunk Works to design and build the X-59. One of its standout features is an external vision system that replaces the usual forward cockpit view, which is blocked by the plane’s long nose.

Every flight provides engineers with new insights into how the plane flies and performs. This data will help shape future programs to make supersonic travel more efficient and quieter.

The next test flight is expected in a few days and will push the X-59 even further. NASA plans to fly it at about Mach 1.4 and 55,000 feet, which is closer to what commercial flights might look like.

This flight will also give NASA another chance to record the X-59’s unique sound using special sensors on the chase plane and microphones on the ground.

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After months of investigation, more than 20 independent battery experts have found that the battery technology promoted by Finnish startup Donut Lab is not the breakthrough solid-state sodium-ion battery the company claimed. These findings raise serious questions about a technology that attracted about $25 million from over 1,300 investors and pushed the company’s value up to $1.25 billion.

The report, led by battery researcher Ziroth, looked at electrochemical tests, company records, and interviews with industry experts. All the evidence suggests the widely publicized battery is actually a regular lithium-ion cell rather than the revolutionary chemistry unveiled at CES 2026.

Experts say test results match lithium-ion chemistry

Questions surrounding Donut Lab’s claims began soon after the company announced a battery that could deliver 400 watt-hours per kilogram, last through 100,000 charge cycles, and recharge in just 5 minutes.

These numbers quickly caught the battery industry’s attention. Independent tests followed, but the main performance claims were not verified. Several tests by Finland’s VTT Technical Research Center could not confirm the advertised energy density or the long cycle life.

The latest investigation reviewed data from those tests and spoke with over 20 battery experts. The report says every expert agreed: the tested cell acts like a lithium-ion battery.

A key clue was in the voltage measurements. The battery ran at about 3.7 to 3.8 volts at 50 percent charge, which is typical for high-nickel lithium-ion batteries with nickel-manganese-cobalt chemistry. Sodium-ion batteries usually operate at lower voltages and rarely exceed 3.5 volts at the same charge.

Expansion patterns reveal the battery’s true identity

Researchers say the most convincing evidence came from measuring how the cell expanded during charging.

When a battery charges, ions move into the anode, causing it to expand. Graphite anodes have a unique expansion pattern because of changes in graphite’s layered structure. The Donut Lab cell showed this exact pattern.

This finding matters because sodium ions are too big to fit into graphite the way lithium ions do. According to investigators, the graphite expansion pattern clearly shows that lithium is the active ion in the battery.

The report described the evidence bluntly: “It’s like we have a slightly noisy fingerprint and a picture of the suspect’s face. And yet again, it’s a match.”

Based on the data, investigators estimated the battery’s energy density at about 298 watt-hours per kilogram. This is good for a modern lithium-ion battery, but far below the company’s claimed 400 watt-hours per kilogram.

German supplier emerges at center of technology chain

The investigation found that the battery technology came from the German company CT Coatings, which supplied it to Nordic Nano and Donut Lab.

In this setup, CT Coatings provided the technology, Nordic Nano was supposed to make the cells, and Donut Lab took care of selling them. Investigators said Nordic Nano has never made a battery cell for the market.

Industry experts who met with CT Coatings representatives doubted their technical skills. Julian Zanau from the Fraunhofer Research Institute recalled concerns following discussions with company officials.

“The first impression I got was that these people have no idea how a battery actually works. They were talking about no rare earth metals in their batteries and therefore no lithium, and to any chemist lithium has nothing to do with rare earth minerals.”

Former Nordic Nano executive Lauri Peltola also criticized the decision to rely solely on internal evaluations rather than independent battery experts to assess the technology.

Investor scrutiny grows as authorities investigate

The report also questions Donut Lab’s public statements about its vehicle-making efforts. The company said the first production motorcycle left the assembly line in early 2026. However, an internal video reportedly said the motorcycles would first stay in Verge’s own fleet to improve manufacturing before being delivered to customers.

Investigators argue that these vehicles should be seen as pre-production units, not products ready for customers.

More doubts came up when CEO Marko Lehtimäki reportedly admitted that the much-publicized 400-watt-hour-per-kilogram cells were not actually in the motorcycles. Leaked messages also suggested Donut Lab was still looking for proof of the battery’s advertised performance from CT Coatings.

The financial impact is significant. Over 900 shareholders reportedly hold 50 shares or fewer, indicating many are small investors. Investor messages reportedly promised big returns and encouraged more investments as excitement about the battery grew.

According to the investigation, Finnish financial regulators and criminal authorities are now looking into the case. This could become one of the most closely watched technology investment cases in the Nordic battery industry.

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China’s shipbuilding industry reached another major milestone on Monday as Hudong-Zhonghua Shipbuilding, a subsidiary of China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC), officially began construction of what it says will be the world’s first and largest 271,000-cubic-meter (9.6 million-cubic-foot) QC-Max liquefied natural gas (LNG) carrier.

This project marks a big step for China’s role in high-end shipbuilding. Experts say building this vessel comes at a time when global energy markets and trade are uncertain, so reliable LNG transport is more important than ever. The ship should boost confidence in the LNG supply chain and help move cleaner energy around the world.

Massive jump in LNG transport capacity

The new carrier can carry much more cargo than today’s standard LNG ships. It is 1,129 feet (344 meters) long and uses the latest NO96 Super+ membrane system to store and transport liquefied natural gas at very low temperatures.

According to the company, the ship can carry 271,000 cubic meters (9.6 million-cubic-foot) of LNG, making it the largest LNG carrier ever built. This is 57 percent more than the common 174,000-cubic-meter (6.15 million-cubic-foot) LNG carriers used today.

With its larger capacity, shipping companies can move more LNG in fewer trips, making long-distance trade more efficient. The ship is also built to work with most major LNG terminals worldwide, so it can travel many international routes.

Designed for lower emissions and efficiency

Besides being bigger, the ship uses new technology to cut fuel use and lower its impact on the environment. It has a dual-fuel engine that can run on multiple fuels, making the ship more energy-efficient.

Engineers improved the ship’s hull design to reduce drag in the water, which helps cut costs and emissions during trips. Hudong-Zhonghua claims that the carrier meets the International Maritime Organization’s Tier III environmental standards, which are some of the strictest rules for commercial ships.

The company said the ship offers high cargo capacity, uses less energy, produces fewer carbon emissions, and is safer and more reliable. These features matter more now as shipping companies try to cut emissions and stay profitable.

China strengthens position in LNG shipbuilding

LNG carriers are considered among the most technically challenging commercial ships to build. Making them needs advanced engineering, special containment systems, and expert manufacturing skills.

LNG container ships are often called the “crown jewel” of shipbuilding. They are hard to research and build, and they need complex supply chains.

Hudong-Zhonghua said it has built its position through independently developed technologies, localized supply chains, and extensive production experience. The company currently holds orders for almost 60 LNG carriers and reports that its production schedule is fully booked through 2030. Based on total cargo capacity, its order book ranks first globally.

China now makes over 30 percent of the world’s LNG ships, ending many years of foreign dominance. Experts see this growth as a key step for China’s energy and industry.

First vessel expected in 2028

This building program should help address the shortage of LNG shipping as global demand for natural gas transport continues to rise. More ships of this size could also strengthen international energy supply networks.

Hudong-Zhonghua said work on the lead ship has started, and it should be delivered in 2028. The company plans to finish and deliver all the ships on time.

China’s efforts to secure a key material for solar panels and semiconductors have taken a big step forward. Researchers have found a promising new source of high-purity quartz in Tibet.

High-purity quartz is a key raw material for advanced manufacturing. It is used to make semiconductors, solar panels, optical parts, and many types of electronics. Even though China is a major manufacturer, it has mostly depended on foreign suppliers, especially the United States, for high-grade quartz.

Tibetan granite emerges as a valuable resource

The study looked at leucogranites from the Dinggye area in Tibet. These pale granites have a lot of quartz, which could be used to make very pure silica materials.

“This study evaluates Tibet leucogranites as a potential raw material for high-purity quartz,” according to the paper published in April.

After studying the minerals and the rocks’ purification potential, the researchers found that these deposits could yield very high-quality quartz.

“Our results demonstrate that these leucogranites hold considerable potential to produce high-purity quartz with [silica] contents above 99.995 percent,” the team from the University of Science and Technology of China and the China Geological Survey wrote.

The researchers found that impurities in the quartz can be removed during processing. Improving purification methods could make the quartz even purer.

Critical ingredient for solar and chip industries

Quartz is the second most common mineral in Earth’s crust, but quartz that meets high-tech standards is much rarer. High-purity quartz has at least 99.9 percent silica and special qualities needed for advanced industries.

Because it resists heat and corrosion, insulates well, and expands very little with temperature changes, high-purity quartz can handle the tough conditions in semiconductor and solar manufacturing.

The material is used to make polysilicon, which helps solar panels turn sunlight into electricity. It is also needed to make quartz crucibles, which are essential for manufacturing semiconductor wafers, electronic components, optical equipment, and solar cells.

As the world needs more clean energy and advanced electronics, finding steady supplies of high-purity quartz is becoming more important.

Supply risks drive domestic exploration

According to the Chinese researchers, there is not much high-purity quartz in the world, and most of it is found in just a few places. “Global high-purity quartz resources are scarce and highly unevenly distributed, leading to significant supply chain risks,” the team noted.

China is currently the world’s largest importer of the material. A significant portion of global supply originates from the famous quartz deposits in Spruce Pine, North Carolina, which have long served as a major source of high-grade quartz for industries around the world.

Depending on imports has become a strategic issue for Chinese leaders, especially as competition grows in the semiconductor and renewable energy fields.

China expands search for strategic minerals

China has recently accelerated its search for domestic sources of high-purity quartz. In 2020, it found its first mineable deposit in Henan province, and another was found in Xinjiang in 2021.

After these discoveries, China’s Ministry of Natural Resources officially listed high-purity quartz as the country’s 174th mineral to be developed in 2025. This move shows how important the material is becoming for China’s industry and technology goals.

The new quartz deposits found in Tibet could play a key role in this plan. Researchers think the area’s many leucogranite formations could support future resource development.

“The widely distributed leucogranites in the Tibet region of China provide an ideal research target for achieving breakthroughs in high-purity quartz resources and ensuring national resource security,” the team wrote.

The study was published in the European Journal of Mineralogy.

A new radio frequency weapon designed to counter drone threats has successfully taken down 80 drones in recent tests in the United Kingdom. Defense technology company Thales announced that its RapidDestroyer system completed a series of trials in April at Pershore, Gloucestershire, demonstrating its ability to quickly and reliably defeat unmanned aerial threats.

The tests show that there is more interest in directed energy weapons as militaries look for better ways to stop advanced drone attacks. Unlike traditional missile defenses, radio frequency systems can target several drones at once without using costly interceptors.

Designed to tackle drone swarms

The RapidDestroyer is a radio-frequency directed-energy weapon (RFDEW) manufactured in the UK. Rather than using physical force, it emits powerful radio waves that interfere with the electronics inside enemy drones.

The weapon disrupts critical systems inside the drones, rendering them inoperable and unable to complete their missions. The firm mentioned the effects occur immediately and prevent the drones from recovering or flying again.

The most recent tests examined how the system handles single drones and showed that it can reliably stop threats. The company said these tests let engineers closely study each encounter and assess how well the weapon performs.

“The trials took place in April at Pershore, Gloucestershire, in partnership with Teledyne E2V and marks another milestone in advancing RFDEW technologies,” the firm revealed in a press statement.

Upgraded design boosts effectiveness

One key improvement in the latest version is its upgraded four-panel effector. Thales said this new setup focuses more energy on targets than earlier versions.

The new design focuses energy more effectively and improves targeting accuracy, allowing the weapon to hit threats from farther away. By sending more power to enemy drones, the system can disrupt their electronics more quickly and effectively.

The company also said that the thorough testing showed the system can reliably disable drones almost right away.

“This extensive testing enabled a forensic analysis of each engagement, demonstrating consistent, near-immediate defeat of each drone, removing the chance that the drones could re-engage,” the company stated.

AI-assisted command system

RapidDestroyer integrates the RF weapon with Thales’ command-and-control and weapon-control software. The system also uses artificial intelligence to spot and respond to threats more quickly.

The AI helps with finding, tracking, and deciding how to handle targets, but people still oversee the process. Operators watch what happens and approve actions, so humans stay in control during operations.

According to Thales, this combination of advanced software, AI, and RF technology enables RapidDestroyer to offer a flexible way to defend against new drone threats. As drone swarms become more common in battle, systems like RapidDestroyer could give armed forces another option for stopping many unmanned aircraft without relying solely on traditional weapons.