Management on the Move

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

20 Oct 25. MilDef opens Bastionen. A strategic capacity increase for enhanced defense capabilities. MilDef is now opening the doors to a new property in Rosersberg, north of Stockholm, named Bastionen. The 6,500 square meter office and production space, tailored to the business, quadruples MilDef’s capacity in integration services and opens up for larger and more complex assignments for customers in defense and security. To meet the growing demand for integration services that strengthen defense capabilities in Sweden and for allied partners, MilDef decided last year to expand its production capacity in the Stockholm region. The purpose-built property has now been completed on schedule by LEJE Fastigheter AB. MilDef has moved in just as Sweden’s defense capabilities are being rapidly upgraded.

“This is undoubtedly a milestone in MilDef’s expansion, and we are seeing a sharp increase in demand for larger and more complex deliveries. The capacity increase in Rosersberg is a proactive step to future-proof our capabilities and enable us to deliver on a larger scale with high quality and delivery reliability,” says Daniel Ljunggren, President and CEO of MilDef.

Bastionen provides the conditions for conducting advanced system integration in high volumes, a key component for future deliveries in total defense and security-critical systems. The property offers business-adapted production and offices with a focus on business needs and an attractive working environment.

“Bastionen enables us to further scale up our ability to deliver complete, customized solutions. The market is increasingly demanding comprehensive solutions rather than individual components. This creates a natural hub for the part of the business that works with the Swedish market,” says Erik Buhre, Head of Delivery, MilDef Sweden.

MilDef’s initiative is part of the expanded Nordic defense cooperation, as well as a result of the company’s understanding of what Swedish NATO membership means for the growing need for technical solutions that are interoperable, standardized, and future-proof.

“We see great synergies in building capacity for cross-border collaboration. Bastionen is a concrete expression of our ambition to be a reliable industrial partner in both national and pan-Nordic projects,” says Magnus Hagman, VP Nordics.

 

MARITIME

 

21 Oct 25. ST Engineering today launched the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN)’s first Victory-class Multi-Role Combat Vessel (MRCV), Victory, at its Benoi Yard. The launch ceremony was officiated by Mr Chan Chun Sing, Singapore’s Minister for Defence. MRCV Victory is the first of six MRCVs to be built by ST Engineering under a detailed design and construction contract awarded by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) in 2023.

“The launch of MRCV Victory demonstrates the strength of our close collaboration,” said Mervyn Tan, President, Defence & Public Security, ST Engineering. “Through our partnership with the Republic of Singapore Navy and the Defence Science and Technology Agency, we have set the foundation for the successful delivery of future-ready first-of-class naval platforms that will strengthen Singapore’s maritime defence.”

MRCV Victory is a demonstration of the Group’s engineering depth across multiple domains – from detailed design and shipbuilding to the implementation of critical cyber-secured communication networks to the complex integration of multiple weapons systems. This complex undertaking reinforced ST Engineering’s position as a trusted partner capable of delivering advanced, multi-domain defence innovations for Singapore and beyond. Measuring 150 metres in length, the MRCV is designed to serve as a “mothership” for unmanned systems, enabling seamless operability across air, surface and subsurface domains. Incorporating state-of-the-art systems, the Victory-class MRCV supports a wide range of missions from maritime security and surveillance to high-intensity combat operations.

“Our extensive experience in turnkey naval shipbuilding gives us the capabilities to deliver large, complex vessels like the MRCV. Being the first of its class, MRCV Victory requires advanced engineering and design precision execution across every stage of construction, a level of expertise that is evident in the launch of the vessel today,” said Tan Leong Peng, President, Marine, ST Engineering. 2 www.stengg.com

Setting a benchmark for next-generation naval vessels

Leveraging 3D modelling and digital twinning, the vessel design was tested and refined virtually before actual construction began. The use of virtualisation technologies reduced the need for costly physical prototypes, minimised design rework, cut down material waste and shortened the delivery time required to deliver a mothership that is optimised to meet the Navy’s needs. The model-based approach in the development of the Victory-class MRCV has set a new engineering benchmark in the design of advanced naval vessels. After the launch, MRCV Victory will be transferred from Benoi Yard to Gul Yard, where it will undergo further outfitting, integration and sea trials. ST Engineering is on track to deliver the fleet of MRCVs to the RSN progressively from 2028 onwards. ST Engineering continues to invest in the automation and transformation of its two shipyards into an integrated smart hub. With smart yard management systems, automated panel lines, robotic welding and predictive maintenance capabilities, these enhancements will strengthen project coordination, improve resource allocation and drive overall productivity. The expanded capacity and better infrastructure at the two yards will enable ST Engineering to take on larger and more complex projects to meet the SAF’s evolving maritime defence needs.

 

PLANT CLOSURES, STRIKES AND JOB LOSSES

 

22 Oct 25. BAE Systems faces Unite strike after 3.6% pay offer rejected. Britain’s Unite union said on Wednesday its members are taking strike action at defence giant BAE Systems’ Warton and Samlesbury sites after rejecting a 3.6% pay offer that the union described as a real-terms wage cut. Unite members in four sections, including manufacturing and quality control, will take their first phase of strike action from the 5th to 25th of November, the union added. (Source: Reuters)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

22 Oct 25. Ms Leigh Stubblefield has been appointed British High Commissioner to the Republic of Malawi in succession to Ms Fiona Ritchie, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment. Ms Stubblefield will take up her appointment during November 2025.

 

22 Oct 25. Mr Neil Crompton CBE has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to Ukraine, in succession to Mr Martin Harris CMG OBE, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

 

17 Oct 25. Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Libya: Martin Reynolds. Following his appointment in December 2024 to succeed Dr Martin Longden CMG OBE as His Majesty’s Ambassador to the State of Libya, Mr Martin Reynolds CB CMG will now take up his new post during October 2025.

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

22 Oct 25. Anduril’s Kit-based Drones to be Assembled by Cobbs in Belgium. Anduril Industries and COBBS BELUX BV have signed an agreement to explore opportunities for the localisation of advanced defence technologies in Belgium. The partnership will initially focus on final assembly, maintenance and possible future developments, with the aim of strengthening Belgian industry and NATO capabilities. The agreement was signed in the presence of Belgium’s Royal highness Princess Astrid and Minister of Defense Theo Francken . According to Cobbs CEO Michaël Rummens, the company intends to start small, producing a few hundred drones per year before scaling up. Staff numbers will initially grow to about ten people, with plans to expand to around 25 employees next year.

“Anduril has developed a kit-based drone system – similar to what Ikea does,” Rummens told L’Écho. “With this system, you can build a drone of up to 600 kilos in just five hours.” He described Anduril’s drones as being “like Lego sets”, meaning few workers are needed for assembly.

In addition to assembly, Cobbs plans to develop research and development (R&D) activities focused on drones and counter-drone technology. “Gaining knowledge is the best way to stay competitive and ensures strategic autonomy,” Rummens said.

To support the collaboration, Anduril will open a Belgian office in Bonheiden, aiming to “strengthen local workforce training and sustainment capabilities for advanced defence technologies,” the company said in a statement.

Belgium’s new Minister of Defence, Theo Francken, reportedly visited Anduril’s facilities during the California mission and attended demonstrations of its Lattice platform — an AI system capable of autonomously identifying, tracking, and detecting individuals or vehicles over several kilometres. Francken called Anduril a “very interesting company” with “disruptive technology” that has drastically transformed the market. In just a few years, the firm has grown into a $30 bn company employing 9,000 people.

“This collaboration with Cobbs demonstrates the value of working with innovative defence technology companies willing to invest locally and support our long-term security, sovereignty, and commitments to NATO and our allies,” Francken said.

“Anduril is making a long-term commitment to Belgium,” added Brian Schimpf, CEO of Anduril Industries to L’Écho. “Together with Cobbs, we will ensure local assembly, maintenance, and training to enhance sovereignty, resilience, and cooperation with NATO.” (Source: UAS VISION/COBBS BELUX BV LinkedIn; The Brussels Times)

 

17 Oct 25.  Embraer Defense & Security and Mahindra Group, have signed a landmark Strategic Cooperation Agreement (SCA) to advance the C-390 Millennium solution for the Indian Air Force’s Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) programme. This agreement was inked alongside the inauguration of Embraer’s national office in Aerocity, New Delhi.  The agreement builds upon the Memorandum of Understanding signed in February 2024 at the Embassy of Brazil in New Delhi, deepening the scope of cooperation to include joint marketing, industrialisation and developing India as a hub for the C-390 Millennium. Since the signing, the C-390 Millennium aircraft has further increased its operator base globally. Embraer and Mahindra Group will work closely with stakeholders in the country and engage with India’s military and aerospace ecosystem to identify opportunities for local manufacturing, assembly facilities, supply chain and MRO activities. The long-term ambition is to position India as a manufacturing and support hub for the C-390 Millennium aircraft, serving both domestic and regional requirements. This partnership unites Brazil’s world-class aerospace innovation with India’s manufacturing prowess and contributes to the strengthening of ties between the two nations while positioning India as a potential hub for the C-390 Millennium aircraft in the region. Speaking at the signing ceremony, Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security said, “The agreement is a significant milestone in our relationship with Mahindra Group. India’s aerospace industry is dynamic and world-class, and together we aim to deliver the most advanced and reliable military transport solution to the Indian Air Force. This partnership is more than an aerospace deal – it reflects our commitment to ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ and the growing friendship between Brazil and India.”

Vinod Sahay, Member of Group Executive Board, Mahindra Group said: “The C-390 Millennium is unmatched in capability, efficiency, and versatility. By deepening our collaboration with Embraer, together we will ensure that the C-390 Millenium for the IAF’s MTA campaign will not only contribute to India’s security and aspirations but also supports the ‘Make in India’ philosophy and further self-reliance.”

The C-390 Millennium is the most modern military transport aircraft in its class and can carry more payload (26 tons) compared to other medium-sized military transport aircraft and flies faster (470 knots) and farther. It can perform a wide range of missions including cargo and troop transport, airdrops, medical evacuation, search and rescue], firefighting, and humanitarian operations. It can operate from temporary or unpaved runways. The aircraft can also be configured for air-to-air refuelling, both as a tanker and as a receiver. The current fleet, in operation, has demonstrated a mission completion rate of more than 99%, highlighting exceptional productivity in its category.  Already selected by air forces in Brazil, Portugal, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, South Korea, Czech Republic, Sweden, Slovakia, Lithuania and an undisclosed customer, the C-390 Millennium has the capability, versatility and performance to serve India’s strategic needs.

 

20 Oct 25. Embraer and South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA)[1] have signed a Memorandum of Understanding that will see both parties cooperating on new businesses and market development opportunities in the defense sector of South Korea. The MoU was signed on the opening day of ADEX 2025 between Air Force Brigadier General Kang Joong-hee, Director of the Aircraft Business Division at DAPA and Bosco da Costa Jr., President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security.

“This MOU will serve as a significant opportunity for Korea and Brazil to move beyond a simple buyer-seller relationship and toward a model of mutual growth cooperation,” said Air Force Brigadier General Kang Joong-hee, Director of the Aircraft Business Division at DAPA. “Through strategic cooperation with Embraer, the DAPA will actively support the entry of Korean companies into the overseas supply chain and the expansion of Korean defense exports.”

“The MoU reflects the growing partnership between Embraer and DAPA. It leverages on Embraer Defense & Security’s comprehensive capabilities across air, land, sea and space domains to explore avenues for collaboration, innovation and support South Korea’s evolving defense needs,” said Bosco da Costa Jr., President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security at the signing ceremony.

In 2023, South Korea’s Defense Acquisition Program Administration (DAPA) selected the C-390 Millennium for its Large Transport Aircraft (LTA-II) public tender, providing the Republic of Korea Air Force (ROKAF) with new military transport aircraft. The C-390 Millennium aircraft will be specially configured to meet ROKAF’s requirements, along with comprehensive services and support, including training, ground support equipment, and spare parts. Embraer has a global supply chain and has been partnering with Korean companies since the launch of its E-Jets E2 commercial aircraft program in 2013. Last month, Embraer and the Korea Trade-Investment Promotion Agency KOTRA held a week-long roadshow in Sacheon and Busan which included visits and seminars aimed at identifying areas of further collaboration between Embraer and Korean companies.

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

21 Oct 25.  D-Fend Solutions, the leader in field-proven radio frequency (RF) cyber-based, non-kinetic, non-jamming, counter-drone takeover technology, today announced that General Glen D. VanHerck (USAF, Ret.) has joined the company’s Advisory Board. General VanHerck’s decision to join D-Fend’s Advisory Board further validates the company’s pioneering role at the forefront of cyber counter-drone technology. General VanHerck retired from the U.S. Air Force in 2024 following a distinguished career, culminating as Commander of U.S. Northern Command (USNORTHCOM) and North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD), where he oversaw the defense of North America and the U.S. homeland, including defense of critical infrastructure, domains safeguarded by D-Fend Solutions’ advanced technology. He previously served as Director of the Joint Staff at the Pentagon and Commander of the USAF Warfare Center at Nellis AFB, NV. His deep strategy and policy background coupled with his operational experience matches the strategic mission and demanding requirements of D-Fend Solutions’ key customer sectors, including military, homeland security, law enforcement, and critical infrastructure protection. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

22 Oct 25. After 21 years of service to Howmet Aerospace Inc. (NYSE:HWM) and in turning 60, Ken Giacobbe, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, has decided to retire on December 31, 2025. Mr. Giacobbe has been a valued contributor to Howmet’s success. He has been a trusted partner to John Plant, Executive Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, and an invaluable resource to the Company’s Board of Directors and the businesses within Howmet. From December 1 to December 31, 2025, Mr. Giacobbe will serve as special advisor to Mr. Plant. The Company wishes Mr. Giacobbe well in his retirement. Effective December 1, 2025, Patrick Winterlich will join Howmet as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Winterlich most recently was Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Hexcel Corporation. He joined Hexcel in 1998 and has held roles of increasing responsibility in Finance, Operations and Information Technology, prior to assuming his current role as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer at Hexcel in 2017. Mr. Winterlich will be based at Howmet’s Global Headquarters in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

21 Oct 25. Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY) (“Teledyne”) announced today that Teledyne’s Board of Directors appointed Laura Black, Managing Director of Needham & Company, LLC, and George C. Bobb III, Teledyne’s President and Chief Executive Officer, to Teledyne’s Board of Directors. These additions raise the number of Board members to 12.

Ms. Black, age 64, has served as a Managing Director of Needham & Company, LLC, a full-service investment banking firm since 1999. At Needham, she has raised public and private equity capital for numerous technology companies and served as strategic financial advisor on multiple mergers and acquisitions transactions. From July 1995 to February 1999, she served as a Managing Director of Corporate Finance at Black & Company, a regional investment bank subsequently acquired by Wells Fargo Van Kasper. From July 1993 to June 1995, Ms. Black served as a Director for TRW Avionics & Surveillance Group where she evaluated acquisition candidates, managed direct investments and raised venture capital to back spin-off companies. From August 1983 to August 1992, she worked at TRW as an electrical engineer designing hardware for spread spectrum communication systems. Ms. Black currently serves as a board member of each of Viavi Solutions, Inc., a global provider of network test, monitoring and assurance solutions, since 2018, and Ichor Holdings, Ltd., a provider of critical fluid delivery subsystems and components for the semiconductor industry, since February 2019. Ms. Black earned a Master of Science degree in management from Stanford University Graduate School of Business. She holds a Master of Science in Electrical Engineering degree from Santa Clara University and a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering from the University of California at Davis.

Mr. Bobb, age 51, has been Teledyne’s President and Chief Executive Officer since April 28, 2025. Previously, Mr. Bobb was Teledyne’s President and Chief Operating Officer since January 1, 2024. Prior to that role, Mr. Bobb was President of Teledyne’s Aerospace and Defense Electronics Segment and had executive leadership responsibility for the Marine Instrumentation group, the Engineered Systems Segment, Teledyne Scientific & Imaging, LLC, and Teledyne’s Information Technology functions. First joining Teledyne in 2008, Mr. Bobb also held other executive and legal positions, including Chief Compliance Officer. Prior to joining Teledyne, Mr. Bobb was the Deputy Chief of Staff of the National Security Division of the United States Department of Justice. During his tenure at the Department of Justice, he also served as Counsel for National Security Law and Policy. Mr. Bobb holds a Bachelor of Science degree from the United States Coast Guard Academy and a law degree from Yale Law School. As an active-duty Coast Guard officer, he served as a Boarding Officer and Deck Watch Officer on the United States Coast Guard Cutter Vigilant, and then as Commanding Officer of the United States Coast Guard Cutter Marlin. Mr. Bobb subsequently served as a liaison for the Coast Guard to the United States House of Representatives. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

22 Oct 25. Textron taps insider Atherton as CEO, Donnelly to continue as chair. Textron chief executive Scott Donnelly will be succeeded by insider Lisa Atherton, effective January 4 next year, the aircraft maker said on Wednesday. Atherton served as the president and CEO of Textron’s Bell segment, which makes helicopters for military and commercial purposes. Donnelly will continue leading the board and will provide advice and counsel to the CEO, the company said. (Source: Reuters)

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

20 Oct 25. DroneShield announced the appointment of Angus Harris to the role of Chief Technology Officer (CTO). This appointment reflects the Company’s continued growth and organisational maturity as it scales to meet accelerating global demand across defence and government markets. Mr Harris brings a wealth of technical and leadership experience from his time at Thales and the Australian Department of Defence. Prior to the promotion, Angus Harris was leading DroneShield’s software engineering team. Over his career, he has delivered complex engineering and technology programs across defence, transport, and advanced AI domains. His track record includes overseeing national  communications and control system deployments including Sydney Metro, leading the development of enterprise-scale computer-vision solutions for major retailers, and driving innovation in software and sensor integration within defence and government applications. Angus Bean, a foundational member of DroneShield’s technology leadership team, will move into the position of Chief Product Officer (CPO). In this role, Mr Bean will concentrate on advancing the Company’s global product vision and long-term technology roadmap, ensuring that innovation, engineering capability, and customer outcomes remain tightly aligned. Having overseen the development of DroneShield’s core technologies from inception, he will continue to play a critical role in guiding the Company’s strategic direction and product evolution as it expands its global footprint

 

 

 

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

14 Oct 25. Assembly and maintenance facility for F-35 fighter jet engines completed in Linnavuori, Nokia. The assembly and maintenance facility for F-35 fighter jet engines, located in Linnavuori, Nokia in Finland, has been completed on schedule. The facility, constructed by Defence Properties Finland, has been handed over to Patria. As the strategic partner of the Finnish Defence Forces, Patria is responsible for assembling, maintaining, and servicing of F135 engines. The production facility will initially serve as assembly spaces for the engines and will later be converted for engine maintenance and overhaul. Finland’s first F-35A fighters will arrive at the Lapland Air Wing base in Rovaniemi at the end of 2026. Maintenance activities will continue in Nokia throughout the entire lifecycle of Finland’s F-35 fleet. The facilities were constructed in accordance with the objectives and high security requirements of the F-35 programme and the engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney, as part of the F-35 programme’s industrial cooperation.

“The purpose of the industrial participation led by the Finnish Ministry of Defence is to secure domestic security of supply and, at the same time, create employment. The production of F-35 components in Linnavuori is a significant and concrete step forward in the defence and security cooperation between Finland and the United States. It is also a recognition of Finnish expertise, which is trusted even in the most demanding projects. The F-35 will become the backbone of air defence for the entire democratic world, and with Linnavuori, an important centre of expertise will be established in Finland,” says the Minister of Defence for Finland Antti Häkkänen.

“The construction project successfully passed all security inspections by the United States. Strict security regulations must be observed throughout the supply chain, and both contractors and designers performed well in this demanding project. Thanks to close and effective cooperation between all parties, we were able to keep to the schedule precisely,” says Matias Warsta, CEO of Defence Properties Finland. Defence Properties Finland is responsible for the construction and maintenance of the infrastructure and properties required for Finland’s F-35 fighters. In addition to the Linnavuori facilities, Defence Properties Finland is constructing infrastructure in all Air Force bases during this decade.

“Cooperation between the parties during the Linnavuori construction project has been smooth. It’s great to see the results of our joint efforts, which help to build new capabilities for F-35 programme. The production facilities in Linnavuori and the growing Patria team play a key role in this and in the upcoming F135 engine assembly and maintenance work,” says Petri Hepola, Patria’s Chief Program Officer, F-35.

Under the agreement signed with Pratt & Whitney in 2024, Patria will assemble F135 engines and components from 2025 to 2030, followed by a transition to F135 engine Maintenance, Repair, Overhaul and Upgrade (MRO&U) operations, beginning in 2030. The direct employment impact of the agreement for Patria between 2025 and 2030 is estimated to be around 50 people. In addition to the production facilities, new area infrastructure and transport routes were built in Linnavuori.

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

13 Oct 25. The UK Defence Secretary, with the approval of the Prime Minister, has announced the appointment of Rupert Pearce as National Armaments Director (NAD) at the Ministry of Defence (MOD). Mr Pearce brings extensive leadership experience from the private sector, including 16 years at FTSE100 satellite telecommunications company Inmarsat, where he served as CEO for nine years.   He will take up the role of NAD on 14th October, with Andy Start, who has been establishing the new Group as National Armaments Director in an interim capacity, supporting him for the first few months of his tenure.

 

INDUSTRY

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

13 Oct 25. LightPath Technologies, Inc. (NASDAQ: LPTH) (“LightPath,” the “Company,” “we,” or “our”), a leading provider of next-generation optics and imaging systems for both defense and commercial applications, today announced the appointment of Mark Caylor to the company’s Board of Directors, effective October 9, 2025. Mark Caylor is a veteran defense industry executive with over 35 years of experience driving profitable growth, planning and executing technology and corporate strategy, managing capital structure and risk, and leading large organizations. Mr. Caylor recently retired as President of Northrop Grumman’s Mission Systems Sector, a supplier of advanced sensing, processing, and communications technologies for defense and intelligence customers, with operations in the U.S. and Europe. He was previously President, Enterprise Services and Chief Strategy Officer where he led Northrop Grumman’s shared services, corporate strategy, and mergers and acquisitions. He also served as Corporate Vice President and Treasurer, responsible for the company’s liquidity, insurance, and capital structure management. Earlier, Mr. Caylor held leadership roles in banking and capital markets as well as technology development. He joined Northrop Grumman in 2002. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

13 Oct 25. V2X, Inc. (NYSE: VVX), today announced the appointment of Jeff Cheatham as Vice President of Contracts and Subcontracts. In this role, Cheatham will oversee all contract strategy, negotiation, and administration activities across the enterprise, ensuring excellence in execution, compliance, and customer engagement in support of V2X’s global operations. He will report to V2X General Counsel, Jeremy Nance. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

06 Oct 25. Combat robotics firm and drone makers sign production deal for Dutch site. Estonian defence firm Milrem Robotics and several Dutch drone companies have signed deals to use space at a factory owned by Dutch industrial firm VDL, the Netherlands Defence Ministry said on Monday. The companies were expected to host hundreds of workers at the site in Born and fulfil orders for both the Dutch and Ukrainian militaries, a spokesperson said. Milrem, which makes unmanned ground vehicles, was joined by Dutch dronemaker DeltaQuad, a supplier to the Dutch Air Force, and Tulip Tech, which makes technology to improve battery efficiency and extend drone range. (Source: Reuters)

 

MARITIME

 

08 Oct 25. Initial sea trials for USS Massachusetts completed at NNS. The testing programme will proceed at NNS in anticipation of the vessel’s handover to the US Navy. HII’s Newport News Shipbuilding (NNS) division has completed the first set of sea trials for the Virginia-class attack submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798). The trials, which took place over several days at sea, were a collaborative effort between NNS and the US Navy. During this critical phase, the team tested various systems and components of the submarine. Key aspects of the evaluation included the vessel’s first submersion and execution of high-speed manoeuvres both on the surface and while submerged. The testing programme will advance at NNS as it prepares for the eventual handover of this potent vessel to the US Navy. NNS president Kari Wilkinson said: “Our entire team at Newport News Shipbuilding understands the importance of delivering capability to our fleet. Proving capabilities through this first sea trial for Massachusetts is an important step in demonstrating this and we are honoured to support the mission.” The Massachusetts is the 25th Virginia-class submarine and represents the 12th delivery by NNS. It was launched into the James River in February 2024. The Virginia-Class submarines are built by a partnership between NNS and General Dynamics Electric Boat. The Virginia-class submarines have a standard length of 377 feet (ft,) a beam of 34ft, and a submerged displacement of around 7,800 tonnes. The submarines come equipped with four 21-inch diameter torpedo tubes and have a payload capacity for about 25 torpedoes. Designed for a wide range of missions in both deep ocean and near-shore environments, these submarines are set to replace retiring Los Angeles-class submarines. The Virginia-class submarines incorporate technologies that boost their firepower, manoeuvrability, and stealth capabilities, significantly enhancing their combat effectiveness. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

06 Oct 25. Indian Navy commissions second anti-submarine vessel Androth. Built by GRSE in Kolkata, West Bengal, Androth incorporates more than 80% indigenous content. The Indian Navy has commissioned Androth, the second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, on 6 October 2025. The event was attended by Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Naval Command. Androth was built by Indian defence shipyard Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE), under the supervision of the Directorate of Ship Production and the Warship Overseeing Team in Kolkata. The vessel contains more than 80% indigenous content and has been constructed to meet the Classification Rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). The vessel was handed over to the navy on 13 September 2025. Androth is equipped with weapon and sensor suites, communication systems, and waterjet propulsion designed to detect, track and neutralise underwater threats. The ship is also configured for maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations and coastal defence tasks. Steel Authority of India Limited (SAIL) supplied the complete requirement of special grade steel for Androth. The public sector steel producer delivered all required HR sheets and plates for eight ASW-SWC, including both Arnala and Androth. SAIL produced and delivered the steel from its facilities in Bokaro, Bhilai, and Rourkela. The induction of Androth forms part of a series of recent ship additions to the fleet intended to enhance capability and increase indigenous production. The ASW-SWC vessels are intended to replace the Abhay-class corvettes that entered service in 1989. These ships measure about 77 metres and use a diesel engine–waterjet propulsion arrangement. The first vessel in the series, Arnala, was launched in December 2022; Androth was launched in March 2023 and a third ship in the series was launched in June 2023. The Ministry of Defence stated: “Together, these inductions in recent months — Arnala, Nistar, Udaygiri, Nilgiri, and now Androth — reflect the Navy’s balanced growth across the spectrum of maritime operations. Above all, they embody the spirit of Aatmanirbharta (self-reliance), with a high percentage of indigenous content, design expertise and home grown innovation coming from Indian shipyards and industries.” (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

AIR

 

06 Oct 25. UAC Delivered New Su-35S to the MoD of the Russian Federation. The aircraft is designed to gain air superiority, in particular in severe weather conditions and at long distances from the home airfield. Rostec’s United Aircraft Corporation has manufactured and delivered new Su-35S to the Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation under the state defence procurement program. The multifunction aircraft systems are intended for the Russian Air Force.

“To achieve the targets set out by the Minister of Defence of the Russian Federation concerning the provision of troops with ammunition and equipment, our special task fighter air group has received a new batch of the Su-35S multifunction fighters. The Su-35S fulfills all missions set out for us to the fullest extent and at the highest quality,” said a Su-35S pilot of the Russian Air Force.

The Su-35 is designed to gain air superiority, in particular in severe weather conditions and at long distances from the home airfield. It is a transition link to the fifth generation aircraft systems.

“Our aircraft plants operate at full capacity and consistently maintain high rates of combat aircraft delivery to the field. The Su-35S combines the modern ammunition power, advanced electronics and unique maneuverability, making it a ‘one man army’ for fulfillment of the most complex missions: from protection of aircraft groups and ground objects to killing air and ground enemy targets,” said Rostec’s representatives.  (Source: ASD Network)

 

PLANT CLOSURES, STRIKES AND JOB LOSSES

 

05 Oct 25. Hegseth fires USN chief of staff. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth listens as President Donald Trump speaks in the Oval Office of the White House, Monday, Sept. 15, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Alex Brandon) Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has fired the Navy chief of staff in a sudden shakeup following the confirmation of Hung Cao as the new Navy Under Secretary.

“Jon Harrison will no longer serve as the Chief of Staff of the Secretary of the Navy. We are grateful for his service to the Department,” a Pentagon spokesman told Military Times in a statement on Saturday.

At the time of publication, Harrison had not provided a comment about his ousting. Harrison was a political appointee of President Donald Trump who had worked with Navy Secretary John Phelan on efforts to streamline the Navy’s policy and budgeting offices after coming into their posts with many of the Navy’s biggest programs years behind schedule. Politico was first to report on the ouster. (Source: Defense News)

 

INDUSTRY

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

06 Oct 25. The International Institute for Strategic Studies announced the appointment of Dr Daniel Salisbury as Senior Fellow for Nuclear Arms Control, Non-Proliferation and Disarmament. Daniel joins the IISS–Asia team following previous positions as Senior Research Fellow at King’s College London, Stanton Nuclear Security Fellow at Harvard University and Postdoctoral Fellow at the James Martin Center for Non-Proliferation Studies, Middlebury Institute of International Studies at Monterey. Daniel will take up the position at IISS–Asia in Singapore and lead the Nuclear Arms Control, Non-Proliferation and Disarmament research programme from mid-October. The programme was established following a generous endowment from the Government of Japan to strengthen IISS research on global nuclear disarmament, non-proliferation and arms-control issues.

 

09 Oct 25. Christophe Muratet Joins Milrem Robotics to Drive Product Innovation and Growth. Milrem Robotics, a global leader in the development of autonomous robotic systems, is pleased to announce the appointment of Christophe Muratet as Chief Product Officer. In this new role, Muratet will oversee product strategy, development roadmaps, and execution across the company’s growing mission-critical robotics portfolio. Muratet is an experienced product leader and AI strategist with extensive expertise in innovation, digital transformation, and designing scalable B2B and B2G solutions. Most recently, he served as Managing Director of Thales Digital Factory North America, where he led ventures and product innovation in defence, aerospace, security, and artificial intelligence.

 

06 Oct 25. Santander has hired the former head of the British Army to boost defence lending amid a spending boom since the start of the Ukraine war. General Sir Patrick Sanders, who was chief of the general staff in the British Army from 2022 to 2024, will join Santander to help steer its approach to working with the defence industry. The former army chief will advise the bank on lending to arms companies at a time when European governments are looking to pour hundreds of bns into the defence industry to help protect against the threat from Vladimir Putin. (Source: Daily Telegraph)

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

28 Sep 25. Kratos appoints a new Chief Information Officer. Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a Technology Company in the Defense, National Security and Global Markets, recently announced that Brian Shepard has been appointed as Chief Information Officer of the Company and he will be responsible for all information technology of the Company, including information security, information compliance and data communications. Mr. Shepard has more than 30 years of experience in the information technology field, including the last 20 years working in various capacities at Kratos. Since 2021, Mr. Shepard has held the position of Vice President of Information Technology, where he has led the growth and maturation of the Company’s IT organization and has worked closely with Corporate personnel and each of Kratos’ business units to build results-focused IT solutions that align with the Company’s mission, vision and values. (Source: Satnews)

 

07 Oct 25. Redwire Corporation (NYSE: RDW) (“Redwire” or the “Company”), a global leader in space and defense technology solutions, today announced a planned Board of Directors refreshment. Redwire’s Board of Directors has appointed General (RET) James McConville and Dorothy D. Hayes as new independent directors. Jonathan Baliff and John S. Bolton, who joined the Board as part of Redwire’s combination with Genesis Park Acquisition Corp. in 2021, have stepped down from the Board. These Board changes are effective immediately. General McConville was previously the 40th Chief of Staff of the United States Army, leading an organization of 1.2 m personnel, an annual budget of $185 bn and operations in over 140 countries around the globe. He led combat organizations from the platoon to the division level and was the longest serving commander of the famed 101st Airborne Division (AASLT). He is currently an operating partner at AE Industrial Partners and is a Senior Fellow at the Belfer Center at Harvard University and a member of the Georgia Tech Research Institute External Advisory Council. Ms. Hayes brings extensive experience as a financial executive and seasoned board member. A former executive at Intuit, Agilent Technologies, Hewlett-Packard, and Apollo Computer, she is a recognized expert in audit, risk management, corporate governance, and financial controls, and currently serves on the board of BigBear.ai, where she chairs the Audit Committee. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

29 Sep 25. SEA Canada, part of SEA Group and Cohort plc Group, has today opened its new facility in Ottawa, Ontario. Strategically positioned in Canada’s capital, the cutting-edge facility is a demonstration of the company’s commitment to innovation and local manufacturing excellence. The state-of-the-art manufacturing site will be the cornerstone for SEA Canada’s launcher solutions, including its torpedo launcher system (TLS) and the Ancilia trainable decoy launcher, as well support the growth of Ottawa’s defence manufacturing offer.  A significant step forward for SEA Canada’s ability to serve both regional and international customers with agility and precision, the new facility features advanced production technologies and systems that align with SEA’s global environmental goals and renowned global standards for quality.

Keith Cunnane, General Manager at SEA Canada said: “The opening of this facility marks a major milestone for both SEA Canada and defence manufacturing in the nation’s capital. We’re proud to contribute to regional economic growth and job creation, while also supporting Ottawa’s reputation as a centre for innovation and advanced manufacturing. By increasing our capacity to deliver cutting-edge launcher systems with reduced lead times, this site will further cement our position as a trusted global supplier of innovative and flexible countermeasure capabilities.”

The Ottawa site was officially opened by Mark Sutcliffe, Mayor of Ottawa and British High Commissioner to Canada, Robert Tinline.

A centre of excellence for launcher technology, the company’s proven and reliable TLS will be manufactured at the site and supported by local suppliers and a Canadian supply chain. Initial work is focused on SEA Canada’s £15.1 m contract to deliver its TLS for a major Royal Canadian Navy vessel program but will be quickly followed by global export opportunities. A weapon-agnostic configurable solution, the launcher is able to fire NATO compatible standard lightweight torpedoes, helping ensure that navies retain supply chain control through a flexible choice of ammunition suppliers.

Richard Flitton, Managing Director at SEA Group, said: “The new Ottawa manufacturing site represents a significant step forward for SEA Canada – expanding our manufacturing capabilities and strengthening customer service and support offer across Canada and North America. The company’s rapid and continued growth is a testament to the strength of our partnerships with the local defence community and the dedication of our talented team. We’re proud to be a part of the defence manufacturing sector in Ottawa and look forward to playing an even greater role in the region’s defence and manufacturing landscape.”

The SEA Canada Ottawa facility opened on 29 September 2025. More information can be found here: https://www.canadasea.ca/

 

29 Sep 25. UK to fund £11m Clyde welding centre after SNP snub. Defence Secretary John Healey has confirmed that the UK Government will fund a specialist welding facility at the centre of an SNP “student union politics” row. The planned £11m facility by Rolls-Royce and the Malin Group at the Scottish Marine Technology Park in Clydebank almost collapsed because Scottish Enterprise was unable to provide a £2.5m support grant. They knocked back the firm’s request because the specialist skills centre was to support submarine manufacture and, at the time, the SNP Government had a long-standing ban on awarding taxpayers’ cash to companies involved in the manufacture of munitions. John Healey made the announcement in his speech to Labour conference The minister will use his speech to Labour conference in Liverpool to announce the Ministry of Defence cash for the centre.

Mr Healey said: “Labour is proud of Scotland’s maritime heritage, and we are taking action to ensure its success long into the future. Where the SNP will not back Scottish industry, young people or our national security, Labour will step in. With our record defence investment, and our record export deals, Labour is making Scotland a shipbuilding superpower once again. We will deliver good, well-paid jobs and opportunities across the Clyde, Rosyth, Methil and beyond. I am proud to work with Anas and Scottish Labour as we strengthen our national security in a more insecure world, while making defence an engine for growth across Scotland. This announcement shows we can turbocharge that work if the Scottish people elect a Scottish Labour government next May

Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar said the new welding facility was “proof that when Scottish Labour and UK Labour work hand-in-hand, we can deliver the new direction and the new opportunities that Scotland needs.” The funding will be delivered through the Government’s Unity contract with Rolls-Royce, an eight-year agreement worth approximately £9 bn to bolster support to the Royal Navy’s fleet of nuclear submarines. The centre will initially be operated by Rolls-Royce Submarines in partnership with Malin Group and Strathclyde University. Earlier this month, First Minister John Swinney dropped the Scottish Government’s ban on public cash for arms firms. He told MSPs the change in stance reflects the need to “recognise the reality of the importance of defence” in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

“In recognition of that changed international landscape, the Scottish Government will lift the restriction we have applied on the use of support for the production of munitions,” Mr Swinney said.

The earlier unwillingness to fund the welding centre saw the Scottish Government accused of hypocrisy, as publicly owned Ferguson Marine is subcontracted by BAE Systems to work on Royal Navy frigates. When details of the snub were first reported in June, Mr Healey told the BBC: “It really strikes me as student union politics. It’s not a serious government concerned about the opportunities for young people in the future.” However, Rural Affairs Secretary Mairi Gougeon said it was important to take a principled position.

She told the programme: “The project was not eligible for funding because of the long-standing policy position that we have, that we do not provide or support the use of public funding for the manufacture of munitions. I think the key difference between ourselves and the UK Government is that, when we have principles, we stick to them.” (Source: NewsNow)

 

MARITIME

 

25 Sep 25. Indian Navy to commission anti-submarine vessel Androth. Androth is designed to accurately detect, track, and neutralise underwater threats. The Indian Navy is preparing to commission Androth, its second Anti-Submarine Warfare Shallow Water Craft (ASW-SWC), on 6 October 2025. The commissioning at Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam will be overseen by Eastern Naval Command Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief Vice Admiral Rajesh Pendharkar. This event signifies the formal induction of the second vessel out of a planned fleet of 16 ASW-SWC ships. Androth, constructed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders and Engineers (GRSE) in Kolkata, India, incorporates more than 80% domestically sourced components. The vessel was built under the supervision of the Directorate of Ship Production and the Warship Overseeing Team in Kolkata. It was handed over to the Indian Navy on 13 September 2025. The name ‘Androth’ is derived from Androth Island in the Lakshadweep archipelago, highlighting India’s focus on “safeguarding its vast maritime territories”.   The new vessel follows in the footsteps of its predecessor, INS Androth (P69), which served for more than 27 years prior to its decommissioning. Equipped with advanced weaponry, sensor suites, and modern communication systems, Androth is designed to detect, track, and neutralise underwater threats effectively. Its capabilities extend to maritime surveillance, search and rescue operations, and coastal defence missions. The ship’s waterjet propulsion system allows it to operate efficiently in shallow waters. The ASW-SWC vessels are indigenously designed and constructed according to the Classification Rules of the Indian Register of Shipping (IRS). These ships are approximately 77 metres long and are among the largest Indian Naval warships powered by a diesel engine-waterjet combination. They feature lightweight torpedoes, indigenous ASW rockets, and advanced shallow water SONAR systems for effective submarine detection and engagement in littoral zones. The first vessel in this series, Arnala, was launched in December 2022, followed by Androth in March 2023. Anjadip the third vessel, and Amini, the fourth in the series, were launched in June and November of 2023, respectively. The fifth, Agray, and the sixth, Akshay, were launched in March 2024. In August 2025, the Indian Navy commissioned two of the seven Project 17A multi-mission stealth frigates into service at the Naval Base in Visakhapatnam on 26 August 2025. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

26 Sep 25. U.S. Navy Christened Future USS Louis H. Wilson Jr.. The U.S. Navy christened the future USS Louis H. Wilson Jr. (DDG 126), during a ceremony at General Dynamics Bath Iron Works (BIW) on Saturday, September 27, at 10:30 a.m. (EST). The principal address was delivered by Commandant of the Marine Corps, Gen. Eric Smith; Additional speakers include Governor of Maine, Janet Mills; U.S. Senator of Maine Angus King; Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisition, Jason Potter; Deputy Chief of Naval Operations for Integration of Capabilities and Resources, Vice Adm. Brad Skillman; Medal of Honor Recipient, Col. Harvey C. Barnum, Jr.; and President of General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, Chuck Krugh. In a time-honored tradition, ship sponsors Janet Wilson Taylor, daughter of the namesake and Susan J. Rabern, former Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Financial Management and Comptroller, will christen the ship by breaking a bottle of sparkling wine across the bow. The ship is named after Gen. Louis Hugh Wilson Jr., a World War II and Vietnam War veteran who was awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroism during the Battle of Guam. Following his service in Vietnam, he served as the 26th Commandant of the Marine Corps from 1975 to 1979. The christening of DDG 126 symbolizes the Navy’s 250-year commitment to innovation and maritime dominance. From seabed to space, the Navy delivers power for peace – always ready to fight and win. This milestone marks the Navy’s enduring legacy and commitment to shaping the future of maritime power. Arleigh Burke-class Flight III destroyers feature the AN/SPY-6(V)1 Air and Missile Defense Radar and incorporate upgrades to the electrical power and cooling capacity plus additional associated changes to provide enhanced warfighting capability to the fleet. Future destroyers Harvey C. Barnum Jr. (DDG 124), Patrick Gallagher (DDG 127), William Charette (DDG 130), Quentin Walsh (DDG 132), John E. Kilmer (DDG 134), Richard G. Lugar (DDG 136), and J. William Middendorf (DDG 138) are also in production at BIW.

 

AIR

 

01 Oct 25. Marshall Group future base now uncertain. The future location of an aerospace company is uncertain after a proposed move was deemed to be “no longer affordable”. Marshall Group announced plans in 2019 to leave Cambridge Airport, with 12,000 homes set to be built on the site. It agreed a “potential relocation” to Cranfield University’s base in Bedfordshire, but was now “actively exploring a number of alternative options”. The university’s chief executive and vice-chancellor, Dame Karen Holford, said it “isn’t the outcome we’d hoped for”. The company was founded in 1909 and in 2020 signed an option agreement providing it with “the right to take a 150-year lease” at Cranfield Airport. Its most recent accounts, published last week, said a strategic review last summer “concluded that all major components of the group’s engineering businesses, which currently occupy Cambridge East and the surrounding land, will vacate no later than 2028”. However, on Wednesday, Marshall said “after a lot of work and analysis, we have had to conclude that this proposed location is no longer affordable”. The group, which has more than 2,000 employees, did not expand on the costs involved.

“Our focus remains firmly on securing the long-term future of the business, and we are actively exploring a number of alternative options for relocation,” the statement continued. “Although commercial sensitivities mean we cannot share more detail at this stage, we are committed to providing updates as our plans continue to develop.”

The accounts said “2024 was a challenging year” and the group made a loss of £55.5m before tax. Cranfield boss Dame Holford said of the move’s collapse: “This isn’t the outcome we’d hoped for, however our airport remains an important asset for the university and a unique facility for research and innovation in the UK.

“The land proposed for development retains long-standing planning permission and we are actively exploring other options for the site.” (Source: Google/BBC)

 

01 Oct 25. Islanders take off again — built in Britain. Britten-Norman, manufacturer of the ‘iconic’ Islander aircraft, has reached a milestone in its programme to bring full aircraft production to the company’s facility in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight, when — supported by new investment and a wide-ranging transformation initiative — it reached the point of completing more than 50% of the first new UK-built Islander’s assembly, all while expanding its workforce and modernising its facilities. Previously, major assemblies were manufactured overseas before final assembly, but the new production line at Bembridge represents the return of full aircraft manufacturing to the UK. Wing assembly of the first UK-built Islander is expected to be finished later this year, with final assembly scheduled for early 2026 ahead of first delivery in spring 2026.

Grahame Stone, Britten-Norman’s commercial director, said: “This milestone marks the excellent progress by our team in relocating the Islander’s production to Bembridge. By bringing the full build to the UK, we are strengthening our capability and ensuring we can deliver new aircraft efficiently for operators worldwide.

“Since announcing our reshoring plans in 2023, we have invested in technologies that include advanced CNC equipment; we have also grown our workforce by more than 40% in the past 12 months. Moreover, our new production line is now well advanced, and development continues as the company prepares to ramp-up activity over the coming years to deliver new-build aircraft.’

Mr Stone also said that demand for the Islander remains strong, with confirmed orders and multiple Letters of Intent already secured. “With almost 1,300 Islanders delivered since the type first entered service, the aircraft continues to play a vital role in connecting communities and supporting essential services worldwide, from passenger transport and cargo to surveillance and special missions.” (Source: News Now/https://www.machinery-market.co.uk/)

 

INDUSTRY

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

30 Sep 25. The International Institute for Strategic Studies announced the appointment of renowned scholar Dr Erin Pobjie as its first Senior Fellow for Space. The role will lead the IISS space programme and also work with colleagues on delivering IISS assessments of space-related issues in our databases and publications. It will address the major risks to national and commercial space activity and support the development of norms, rules and principles to reduce space threats and prevent an arms race in outer space. Erin is an acclaimed researcher in the field of peace and security law and is a senior research affiliate at the Max Planck Institute for Comparative Public Law and International Law as well as a non-resident fellow at the UN Institute for Disarmament Research, contributing to their Space Security Program.  More recently, Erin was the inaugural British Academy Global Innovation Fellow (Technology & International Affairs) at the German Council for Foreign Relations where she worked in the Center for Climate and Foreign Policy.

 

29 Sep 25. Nicolas Chamussy to depart as CEO of KNDS France. KNDS France’s current chief financial officer Nicolas M, will serve as interim CEO until a permanent successor is appointed. European defence company KNDS has announced the upcoming departure of Nicolas Chamussy from his position as CEO of KNDS France. Chamussy will step down from the position effective 30 September 2025, after more than four years at the helm. Appointed in April 2021, Chamussy’s tenure has been marked by a strategic adaptation to the changing international and European defence landscape, said KNDS. (Source: army-technology.com)

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

28 Sep 25. IonQ (NYSE: IONQ), the leader in the quantum computing and networking industries, today announced the appointment of General John W. “Jay” Raymond to its Board of Directors. A globally recognized leader in space and national security operations, General Raymond most recently served as the first Chief of Space Operations for the U.S. Space Force. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

01 Oct 25. NUBURU, Inc. (NYSE American: BURU), a global leader in high-performance blue laser technology, announced the implementation of a dual-CEO structure, effective October 1, 2025. This strategic initiative complements Alessandro Zamboni’s role as Executive Chairman and supports the company’s ongoing transformation plan. The plan aims to achieve revenue growth starting in Q4 2025 through strategic acquisitions and international alliances, while also managing increased organizational complexity. Nuburu Strengthens its Leadership Team to Execute on Ambitious Transformation Plan through strategic acquisitions and international alliances with the appointment of Alessandro Zamboni and Dario Barisoni as co-Chief Executive Officers (“Co-CEOs”) The Board of Directors has appointed Alessandro Zamboni and Dario Barisoni as co-Chief Executive Officers (“Co-CEOs”). In their new roles:

• Alessandro Zamboni will continue to leverage his expertise as Executive Chairman and Co-CEO, overseeing corporate strategy and financing, treasury and financial reporting, public and investor relations, and market strategy. This appointment formalizes his strategic leadership role during this critical phase.
• Dario Barisoni will report to Mr. Zamboni and will focus on the operations of the Company’s business and subsidiaries, implementing acquisitions and post-merger integration operations, driving synergies across business units, and developing operational and investment strategies, particularly within the defense sector.

In addition, Alessandro Zamboni has been appointed Chairman and Dario Barisoni has been appointed CEO of Nuburu Defense LLC, a wholly-owned subsidiary of NUBURU Inc., signaling the company’s commitment to growth in this key market. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

LOCATIONS

 

MARITIME

 

22 Sep 25. His Majesty King Charles III has visited BAE Systems in Barrow-in-Furness to welcome the country’s newest attack submarine into the Royal Navy. During the ceremony, HMS Agamemnon – named after a mythical ancient Greek king – became the sixth of the seven Astute class boats that will be commissioned into service. The nuclear-powered vessel, which weighs 7,400 tonnes and is 97 metres long, will now complete her test and commissioning programme, before leaving Barrow for sea trials. Earlier in the day, Defence Secretary, John Healey, cut the first steel to officially start construction of the last of four Dreadnought submarines, HMS King George VI, which BAE Systems is building in partnership with the wider Defence Nuclear Enterprise to carry the UK’s nuclear deterrent.  The Dreadnought submarines, due to enter service from the early 2030s, are the replacement for the Vanguard-class submarines, which currently deliver the Continuous At Sea Deterrent (CASD) for the Royal Navy. The critical role underpins the nation’s defence as the ultimate security guarantee and sees at least one of the boats deployed in an unknown location at sea every minute of every day.

Steve Timms, Managing Director, BAE Systems’ Submarines business, said: “It’s a privilege to host these ceremonies at our shipyard. Cutting steel on the fourth Dreadnought submarine demonstrates the significant progress we’ve made on the programme, whilst the sixth Astute class boat, HMS Agamemnon, joins the long and distinguished list of Barrow-built vessels to be commissioned into the Royal Navy. The enduring partnership between our Barrow shipyard and the Navy dates back to the Victorian age and our role as the UK’s home of submarine design and build is something we’re incredibly proud of.”

General Sir Gwyn Jenkins, First Sea Lord and Chief of Naval Staff, said: “The commissioning of the sixth Astute class submarine, HMS Agamemnon, and the steel cut for the fourth Dreadnought-class submarine, HMS King George VI, mark significant milestones in the Royal Navy’s enduring commitment to safeguarding our nation. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the exceptional workforce at Barrow, whose dedication, skill, and innovation continue to drive forward these vital programmes, ensuring the Royal Navy remains at the forefront of global maritime defence.”

His Majesty also visited Barrow Town Hall to bestow Royal Port status on the town in honour of its 120-year history as the home of UK submarine construction.

 

AIR

 

26 Sep 25. V-22 programme officials envision full operations in 2026 while testing continues on upgraded aircraft communications. Joint Program Office (JPO) officials for the V-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft are still targeting 2026 for the full operational return of the aircraft, according to a recent Congressional Research Service (CRS) report. As the officials prepare for the operational return, they are still addressing some communication issues noted in a recent Director, Operational Test and Evaluation (DOT&E) report.

“The V-22 JPO has stated that it is working to return the Osprey to full operations in 2026 and is pursuing several upgrades to the aircraft’s parts and components to improve safety and reliability,” CRS said in its report V-22 Osprey Aircraft: Background and Issues for Congress , released 12 September 2025.

“The marine corps, air force, and navy are also modifying training and implementing new operating procedures,” CRS reported.

After recent mishaps, the navy halted V-22 operations and then reinstated the operations in 2024 with a restriction that the craft remain within 30 minutes of a landing site, CRS noted. “The navy and air force fleets remain restricted to that limit, which may not be lifted until 2026.” CRS also cited recent congressional testimony by Osprey programme officials that Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) is conducting engineering testing and analysis to establish criteria for a full unrestricted flight by the V-22. The US Navy (USN), V-22 JPO, NAVAIR, and Bell-Boeing were reviewing further risk reduction efforts, CRS said. (Source: Janes)

 

PLANT CLOSURES, STRIKES AND JOB LOSSES

 

25 Sep 25. 5,000 BAE Systems staff in Lancashire could go on strike over pay – threatening to bring production to halt Thousands of Lancashire aerospace engineers at BAE Systems could take strike action this autumn over pay. More than 5,000 members of the Unite union based at Warton and Samlesbury are in dispute, and specific groups will be balloted after rejecting the latest pay offer from the company. Unite say strike action could see a number of defence programmes grind to a halt on the factory floor.

• Protest outside BAE Warton as residents fear new wind farm cable poses risk to aircraft
• How a Lancashire company is revolutionising workplaces with their genius product – and scoops the Kings Award

They were offered 3.6 per cent, which is below the rate of inflation and represents a real terms pay cut. It is also below a pay offer made and accepted by BAE Systems shop floor colleagues, who received 4.5 per cent and an additional day of annual leave. (Source: News Now/https://www.blackpoolgazette.co.uk/)

 

18 Sep 25. Leonardo’s UK workers to vote on strike action, union says. About 3,000 UK workers employed by Italian defence firm Leonardo (LDOF.MI) are set to vote for strike action after rejecting a pay offer across multiple cities, British trade union Unite said on Thursday. The ballot at sites in Yeovil, Edinburgh, Newcastle, Luton and Basildon will run until early October, the union added.  (Source: Reuters)

 

19 Sep 25. Dozens of jobs lost at BAE Glasgow shipyard weeks after £10bn deal.  Dozens of jobs are set to be cut by BAE systems in Scotland it has been announced, just weeks after a £10 bn warship deal was struck. Management staff in Govan and Scotstoun were told there would be an organisational overhaul on the naval ships arm of the business, with 116 roles under threat across the whole UK. According to The Times, workers were emailed on Wednesday at 8am and told there would be an important announcement that morning, with Simon Lister, the managing director of the naval ships business at BAE systems, later telling staff that there would be redundancies. It comes after Norway placed a £10bn order for Type 26 frigates designed for anti-submarine warfare at the Glasgow yard. The UK Government said last month that the deal would support 2000 jobs at BAE Systems Glasgow shipyards “well into the 2030s”, with Prime Minister Keir Starmer saying the deal would support “well-paid jobs up and down the United Kingdom, from apprentices to engineers”. BAE confirmed management roles were being scrapped across the naval ships business, which includes sites in Portsmouth, Frimley and Filton.

“We’ve undertaken a review to consider how we reshape and modernise the operations of our naval ships business following considerable investment in our infrastructure in recent years,” a spokesperson from BAE Systems said. (Source: News Now/https://www.thenational.scot/)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

23 Sep 25. The Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport has appointed Professor Steven Gunn as Trustee of the Royal Armouries for a 4 year term from 1 March 2025. Steven Gunn is Fellow and Tutor in History at Merton College, Oxford and Professor of Early Modern History. He teaches and researches the history of later medieval and early modern Britain and Europe.

 

INDUSTRY

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

22 Sep 25. Chess Dynamics, part of the Cohort plc Group, has appointed Andy Smith as its new Managing Director. Andy brings more than 25 years of experience in the defence sector, including senior leadership positions at Leonardo and Marshall Land Systems. Andy succeeds David Tuddenham as Managing Director, who oversaw the company’s growth in recent years, and will continue Chess Dynamics’ commitment to delivering trusted solutions.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

25 Sep 25. AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV) today announced it has appointed Johnathan Jones to its leadership team as Senior Vice President of Cyber and Mission Solutions (CMS). In this role, Jones will lead the strategic direction and operations of CMS, strengthening AV’s advanced cyber, mission-enabling, and national security capabilities to United States government and defense customers. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

23 Sep 25. Palladyne AI Corp. (NASDAQ: PDYN and PDYNW) (“Palladyne AI”), a developer of artificial intelligence software for robotic platforms in the defense and commercial sectors, today announced that Stephen “Steph” M. Twitty has joined its Board of Directors. Twitty retired from the United States Army as a Lieutenant General after 40 years of distinguished service. General Twitty’s appointment underscores Palladyne AI’s commitment to bridging advanced embodied AI technology with real-world defense applications in the near term. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

23 Sep 25. TEKEVER Strengthens its Footprint in Ukraine With Appointment of Kateryna Bezsudna to Lead Local Expansion and Innovation. The move consolidates the company’s long-term commitment to the country, where it has been operating since 2022, and reinforces its strategy of developing innovation hand-in-hand with the Ukrainian Armed Forces. TEKEVER, Europe’s leading developer of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), today announced the appointment of Kateryna Bezsudna as Director of TEKEVER Ukraine. The move consolidates the company’s long-term commitment to the country, where it has been operating since 2022, and reinforces its strategy of developing innovation hand-in-hand with the Ukrainian Armed Forces. (Source: ASD Network)

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

LAND

 

18 Sep 25. Teledyne FLIR Defense, part of Teledyne Technologies Incorporated (NYSE:TDY), held an opening event yesterday for its new office in the Crystal City area of Arlington, Virginia, minutes from the Pentagon. The Teledyne FLIR Defense ‘Crystal City Experience Center’ is located at 1550 Crystal Drive, Suite 425, just two metro stops from the Pentagon and within close proximity to other defense primes, Capitol Hill, and Reagan National Airport. Designed to support the company’s engagement with D.C.-area representatives, the new space features multiple offices, plus a large conference and demonstration room. The facility’s open floor plan will allow customers, government officials, and other visitors to be hands-on with a wide range of FLIR Defense products. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

MARITIME

 

15 Sep 25. Spanish Navy launches F111 frigate Bonifaz ahead of schedule. Fitting out of the ship will resume at the shipyard until expected delivery in 2028. The ship is named after the first admiral of Castile, Ramón Bonifaz. Credit: Navantia. The Spanish Navy has officially launched the F111 frigate ‘Bonifaz’, marking the first unit of the F110 programme at the Navantia shipyards in Ferrol. The event took place on 11 September in the presence of President Pedro Sánchez and was sponsored by Queen Sofía. The ship, named after the first admiral of Castile, Ramón Bonifaz, was launched a month earlier than planned, with over 70% of its construction completed. Prior to the launch ceremony, Spain’s Minister for Defence Margarita Robles participated in the acceptance signing at Navantia facilities. Military and civilian leaders were present, including Chief of the Defence Staff Admiral General Teodoro López Calderón and Chief of Staff of the Armada (AJEMA) Admiral General Antonio Piñeiro.

Piñeiro said: “The frigate ‘Bonifaz’ is not just a new naval unit; it is a reflection of Spain’s commitment to innovation and technological sovereignty. This warship will give us a decisive strategic and deterrent advantage, and along with the guidelines described in the document ‘Armada 2050’, this unit will serve to anticipate future challenges.”

Following this launch, fitting out will continue at the shipyard until delivery is scheduled for 2028. In April 2019, the Spanish Ministry of Defence signed a contract with Navantia for five F110 frigates. Currently, three of these five F110 units are under construction in Ferrol. The F112 blocks are also progressing after their keel-laying in April 2025. The workshops are currently constructing the remaining blocks of the F112 and nine blocks of the F113. The F110-class frigate will feature an advanced design with significant automation. Each vessel will measure 145m in length, 18m in beam, and have a draft of 5m. The displacement will be 6,100 tons with a crew of 150 personnel. The frigate’s flight deck will support helicopters and unmanned aerial vehicles, with future provisions for directed energy weapons. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

15 Sep 25. JFD Global launches Stealth Multi-Role® rebreather, the next generation of mission flexibility and endurance

• Next-generation multi-role rebreather delivering operational capability and flexibility across the full spectrum of military diving
• Extends mission endurance to 12 hours and operational depth to 120m, one of the deepest defence rebreathers on the market
• Backed by 40 years of proven expertise and three years of innovation and product development, setting a new benchmark in diver safety and performance

James Fisher Defence (JFD Global), a global provider of specialist marine and defence solutions enabling mission success at sea, today announces the launch of the Stealth Multi-Role (SMR)® rebreather – incorporating the latest advances in multi-mission diving technology.

Stealth Multi-Role® represents the next generation of JFD Global’s trusted Stealth system, designed to meet the demands of today’s rapidly changing operational environment. Modern mission profiles increasingly require divers to transition seamlessly between depths and tasks – from long horizontal swims in special operations to complex tasks at depth.

The system is compact, ergonomic and configurable to fit a broad spectrum of diver physiques, ensuring consistent comfort and performance across a diverse global operator base. Combined with its modular, configurable and multi-role design, Stealth Multi-Role® enables uncompromising operational flexibility, sophisticated simplicity and exceptional safety to deliver critical mission success.

Peter Laughton, Head of Military Diving at James Fisher, said: “Today’s operational environment rapidly evolving and military divers need a rebreather that is as adaptable as the missions they face – from covert special forces operations to mine clearance in contested waters. Stealth Multi-Role® delivers that flexibility with optimum safety and performance. Built on four decades of frontline experience, it delivers a next generation capability designed to meet the harsh realities of military diving today and into the future.”

Rob Hales, Head of Defence at James Fisher, commented: “Stealth Multi-Role® is a step forward in military diving technology, building on decades of experience and the operational feedback of our customers around the world. It sets a new benchmark for military diving, with a software-driven design to enable continuous upgrades and integration with mission systems. We are very proud of our development team and are excited to deliver Stealth Multi-Role® for our customers.”

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

15 Sep 25. Mrs Su-Lin Garbett-Shiels has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Peru in succession to Mr Gavin Cook who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.  Mrs Garbett-Shiels will take up her appointment during January 2026.

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

15 Sep 25. ATEQ Aviation, the global leader in aviation testing equipment, announced a strategic distribution partnership with Pilot John International (PJi), a trusted provider of aircraft maintenance tools and ground support equipment. This alliance is set to enhance the global availability of ATEQ’s advanced products through Pilot John’s established marketplace, which offers top-tier GSE and tooling, avionics test equipment, aircraft parts, consumables, and pilot supplies.

Strengthening the Foundation for Global Growth

This partnership supports ATEQ Aviation’s growth strategy by expanding its reach through specialized distributors in the aeronautical maintenance sector. By reinforcing its international sales network, ATEQ demonstrates its commitment to innovation, adaptability, and delivering exceptional customer satisfaction around the world.

Together, ATEQ Aviation and Pilot John International will provide aviation maintenance professionals—including airlines, OEMs, military organizations, general aviation, and FBOs—access to cutting-edge test solutions wherever they operate. This agreement bolsters ATEQ’s existing global sales network, ensuring clients benefit from both technical excellence and responsive support.

Expanded Product Availability

As part of this agreement, Pilot John will now offer a comprehensive range of ATEQ Aviation products, including:

• The full ADSE product line (Air data test sets) with pitot adapter kits
• Battery testers and accessories
• Bond tester and accessories
• Aviation NiCad battery covers

This expanded availability enables maintenance professionals to access high-quality, precision testing equipment faster, with the added benefit of Pilot John’s industry expertise, customer service, and global logistics capabilities.

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

15 Sep 25. GSOA announced the appointment of Ali Al Hashemi, CEO of Space Services at Space42, as its new Chair of the Board, alongside two new Vice Chairs: Adel Al-Saleh, CEO of SES, and Jane Nkechi Egerton-Idehen, CEO of NIGCOMSAT. GSOA represents the full satellite ecosystem, from established operators to emerging innovators across all orbits and frequency bands. In an era of accelerating digital transformation, satellite technology has become a critical enabler of innovation, sustainability, and social inclusion – helping to connect the unconnected, power digital economies, and deliver resilient communications in even the most remote or underserved regions.

 

18 Sep 25. Roke has just named military and technology veteran Marc Overton as its new Managing Director. Marc is a Major General in the Army Reserve and currently serves as Assistant Chief of the Defence Staff (Reserves and Cadets). Marc joins from Dassault Systèmes where he has been Managing Director of Northern Europe delivering enterprise level transformation through the use of digital twins and advanced engineering tools. He has an extensive track record in growing transformative technology and telecoms companies, including BT, EE, Orange, Cisco and Sierra Wireless.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

17 Sep 25. Daymer Group, the consulting and fiduciary services firm has expanded into the United States with the hiring of veteran defense sector consultant Ronald Garrity. Ronald will head up Daymer’s operations in the U.S., focused on the strong government and defense contractor sector where he has over 20 years of experience. Launched in August 2025, Daymer Group advises investment management and growth stage companies, providing consultants and filling fractional c-suite roles to allow companies to scale quickly, without the administration associated with increasing permanent headcount. Daymer Group’s directors and consultants include former C-suite executives, partners and senior leaders from multiple sectors, providing independent insight and advice, ensuring improved governance standards and credibility for its clients. The firm has over 20 clients managing over $10Bn AUM, with three of over $2bn AUM.

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

08 Sep 25. USAF MG Kenyon K. Bell for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy chief of staff, Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Bell is currently serving as director of Logistics, Deputy Chief of Staff for Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

08 Sep 25. USAF MG Robert D. Davis for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as commander, Alaskan Command, U.S. Northern Command; commander, Eleventh Air Force, Pacific Air Forces; and commander, Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Region, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. Davis is currently serving as director, Operations, U.S. Northern Command, Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado.

 

08 Sep 25. USAF MG Brandon D. Parker for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy chief of staff, Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Parker is currently serving as director, Global Operations, U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska.

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

09 Sep 25. BMT and FDS Forge Partnership at DSEI 2025 to Deliver Modular Naval Solutions for Tomorrow’s Fleets.  Advancing the ELLIDA® STRIKE vision – BMT’s heritage in ship design and modular innovation, coupled with FDS’s engineering expertise as a leading provider of modular solutions to the Royal Navy, is unlocking agile, scalable capability for the future force

BMT and Force Development Services (FDS) are pleased to announce the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) at DSEI 2025, marking a major step forward in the development of modularity for future naval operations. This partnership will combine BMT’s vast expertise in naval architecture and sovereign ship design with FDS industry-leading innovation and experience in modular deployable systems engineered to enhance current and future platforms, solutions that are adaptable, support lifecycle efficiency and unlock higher levels of mission readiness for the modern naval force.

With the Royal Navy’s ambitions for containerised capabilities and modular mission delivery (reflected in its NavyPODS programme and the broader move toward ‘plug and play’ warship functionality) the timing and vision behind this collaboration could not be more relevant. Today’s announcement aligns with the UK’s drive to accelerate capability introduction and ensure ships can embark, interchange and support specialist equipment to match rapidly shifting threats and mission profiles. Drawing on proven approaches from both the commercial logistics and advanced naval fields, BMT and FDS intend to deliver scalable, interoperable and flexible modular solutions, designed for rapid deployment, supporting operations; realising the benefits of agility that the future force demands.

At 15.00 BST today, BMT Chief Executive OBE Sarah Kenny and FDS Managing Director Claire Hemmings will sign the MOU at The Defence Medical Service stand showcasing the Medical POD (N2-172), with the event followed by a tour of the capability. Delegates will then return to the BMT stand (S11-120), where the new ELLIDA® STRIKE vessel, BMT’s latest showcase in highly configurable, multi-purpose and modular platform design, will be on display. A drinks reception will follow, offering the chance to discuss the partnership’s shared vision in more depth.

Modern navies face increasing budgetary and personnel constraints alongside technological change at unprecedented speed. There is growing consensus that energy and resources must focus on a platform’s ability to re-role mid-deployment, rapidly integrating new equipment, and be maintained and supported for optimal availability ashore and afloat. With a system-of-systems mindset, the BMT–FDS partnership addresses the core challenges of today’s operational demands – delivering a robust framework for PODS lifecycle support, standardised integration onboard and ashore and managed readiness for all deployed capabilities. This shift is not just about adapting platforms, but about enabling the entire fleet to become more responsive, versatile and sustainable – a necessary response to the complexity and pace of the modern operational maritime environment.

Jake Rigby, Global Head of Innovation and Research at BMT, commented:

“This collaboration sets a new standard for modularity in naval operations. By blending BMT’s design, integration and support expertise with FDS’s practical know-how in modular systems design and construction, we are providing navies with a credible pathway to faster, more flexible responses and streamlined lifecycle management.”

Monty Long, Regional Business Director – UK/EU at BMT, added:

“ELLIDA® STRIKE and our full platform range are the result of BMT’s sustained investment in mission-tailored, modular and scalable solutions. Our partnership with FDS at DSEI demonstrates how industry can join forces to move from ambition to operational capability – enabling navies to do more, with greater speed and resilience.”

Claire Hemmings, Managing Director of FDS, said:

“We’re delighted to work alongside BMT, uniting PODS manufacturing and engineering with advanced naval design. Our shared commitment to readiness, integration and through-life support will help shape a more adaptable and effective future fleet, empowering commanders and crews for whatever the mission demands.”

BMT and FDS invite DSEI attendees and the wider defence and maritime community to join them in exploring the future of modular naval capability; one powered by collaboration, innovation and a framework for persistent readiness.

Visitors to DSEI in London (9–12 September) will be the first to see the digitised marine scale model of ELLIDA® STRIKE – the latest evolution in BMT’s proprietary-designed, modular ELLIDA® multi‑role platform family. The interactive model offers a detailed view of the vessel’s layout, demonstrating not only movement and design tailored to customer requirements, but also the flexible, containerised spaces enabling rapid mission reconfiguration. Drawing on the heritage of the ELLIDA® family and BMT’s thought leadership in scalable naval solutions, this debut at DSEI provides an engaging, hands-on showcase – and an immersive glimpse into the future of modular capability in UK littoral strike operations.

 

09 Sep 25. SEA, part of the Cohort plc Group, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with ACUA Ocean, a specialist in Uncrewed Surface Vessels (USVs), to explore the potential deployment of SEA’s towed array sonar systems aboard ACUA Ocean’s autonomous platforms for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations. The strategic agreement sets the framework for a collaborative evaluation of the technical integration of SEA’s cutting-edge underwater sensing product, KraitSense and ACUA Ocean’s long-endurance, high sea state capable USVs. The partnership aims to unlock new operational concepts, identify joint commercial and defence opportunities, and support the future development of a combined unmanned maritime capability.

Richard Flitton, Managing Director of SEA said, “In today’s rapidly evolving threat environment, the underwater battlespace is evolving quickly. While crewed platforms remain vital to ASW and ISR operations, uncrewed vessels hosting specialist KraitSense payloads will bring powerful complimentary capabilities, that enable persistent wide-area underwater sensing and situational awareness.

“As we explore the true potential of uncrewed ASW and ISR operations in partnership with ACUA Ocean, we’re proud to be delivering a future-ready solution designed to meet the demands of modern navies both now and in the coming years.”

The MoU highlights SEA’s ongoing commitment to pioneering adaptable, scalable defence technologies in collaboration with innovative platform developers like ACUA Ocean. The combined system will offer a modular, flexible, low-risk, and cost-effective solution for enhanced undersea surveillance and maritime situational awareness.

Together, the companies aim to deliver a next-generation autonomous maritime surveillance capability that is modular, flexible and scalable to meet evolving operational demands.

SEA will take a lead role in evaluating and supporting the integration of its acoustics sensor systems, providing the necessary technical information and assets for testing. The company will also work closely with ACUA Ocean to co-develop operational concepts that align with current and emerging ASW and ISR mission requirements. Neil Tinmouth, Chief Executive Officer at ACUA Ocean said, “Working closely with SEA shows the power of innovative UK businesses collaborating to deliver the cutting-edge and cost-effective capability needed by navies worldwide in these increasingly complex times. By combining our stable ocean-going unmanned surface vessels with SEA’s leading ASW/ISR technology, we will deliver an autonomous solution that compliments and extends the operational benefits of existing platforms, and delivers scalable capabilities that enhance existing ASW and ISR operations.”

As part of the collaboration, SEA and ACUA Ocean will jointly develop mission concepts and use-case demonstrations. They will also showcase the integrated capability to international customers, leveraging their combined networks and industry expertise to reach defence and maritime stakeholders worldwide.

 

09 Sept 25. Lockheed Martin Skunk Works® and BAE Systems’ FalconWorks® Announce Strategic Collaboration. Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems have announced a strategic partnership to develop a range of uncrewed autonomous air systems. The collaboration will see their advanced research and development divisions – Lockheed Martin Skunk Works and BAE Systems’ FalconWorks – work together on a common design that will be rapidly deployable and modular to deliver a range of effects, including disruptive capabilities.

Drawing on both organisations’ rapid design, prototyping and advanced manufacturing expertise, the collaboration will focus on producing a cost-effective and easily deployable system with multiple launch options. It will initially focus on delivering an electronic warfare and attack capability that would deliver disruptive capabilities and could complement and enhance the survivability of current crewed combat aircraft.

The initial system will be designed with modularity and adaptability for different missions, and offer multiple launch options such as air drop, ground launch, maritime launch and launch from a wide-body logistic aircraft.

The announcement comes at a time when nations are increasingly looking towards developing a mix of crewed and uncrewed assets to address the requirements of today’s rapidly evolving battlespace – and the need to be able to quickly develop and field affordable ‘combat mass’ to support existing frontline combat platforms.

“We’re pleased to join forces with BAE Systems, combining our expertise in rapid prototyping and advanced development to deliver game-changing capabilities,” said OJ Sanchez, Vice President and General Manager, Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. “By working together, we’re unlocking new possibilities for our customers and advancing the future of autonomous systems.”

Dave Holmes, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ FalconWorks division, said: “Through our collaboration with Lockheed Martin we’ll deliver disruptive capabilities that can make a real difference to our military customers at pace, enabling them to confront the operational requirements of today’s battlefield.”

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

08 Sep 25. J.F. Lehman & Company (“JFLCO”), a leading alternative asset manager focused exclusively on the aerospace, defense, government, maritime, environmental and infrastructure sectors, is pleased to announce several team additions and promotions. Team additions include Jonathan J. Holden to the Portfolio Operations team as well as Andrew E. Karmin and Sebastian A. Cai to the Investment team and Jessica Jung to the Administration team.  “These latest additions further highlight the firm’s ability to attract outstanding professionals to the organization, expanding our existing team of exceptionally talented individuals,” said Alex Harman, Partner.

The firm also announced the promotions of Michael P. Leber to Managing Director as well as Peter G. Kohler and Cianan E. Moore to Senior Associate. “We are thrilled to recognize the meaningful commitment and contributions that these highly respected individuals have made to the organization during their tenure thus far,” said Louis N. Mintz, Partner.

Team Additions

Jonathan J. Holden, Vice President, Portfolio Operations. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Holden was a Director in Alvarez & Marsal’s Private Equity Services Group. He started his career in manufacturing operations management at General Electric. Mr. Holden graduated from the University of Cincinnati, where he earned a B.S. in industrial management.

Sebastian A. Cai, Associate. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Cai began his career as an Investment Banking Analyst in Goldman Sachs’ Global Natural Resources Group. Mr. Cai graduated from Tufts University, where he earned a B.S. in quantitative economics with a minor in Chinese.

Andrew E. Karmin, Associate.  Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Karmin began his career as an Investment Banking Analyst at Jefferies in the Power, Utilities & Infrastructure Group. Mr. Karmin graduated from the University of Michigan, where he earned a B.B.A. with a concentration in finance from the Stephen M. Ross School of Business.

Jessica Jung, Administration. Prior to joining the firm, she held various executive assistant positions, most recently serving as Executive Assistant to the CIO at General Atlantic. Ms. Jung earned a B.A. in economics and psychology from Columbia University.

Recent Promotions

Michael P. Leber, Managing Director, Finance & Accounting. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Leber served as Vice President, Finance for Perpetual Capital Partners and held various senior finance and accounting roles for both Fortune 500 as well as growth companies. Mr. Leber began his career in public accounting at Arthur Andersen. Mr. Leber graduated with distinction from Pennsylvania State University, where he earned a B.S. in accounting. Mr. Leber is a Certified Public Accountant.

Peter G. Kohler, Senior Associate. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Kohler was an Investment Banking Analyst in Houlihan Lokey’s Aerospace, Defense & Government Group. Mr. Kohler began his career as an Investment Banking Analyst at KippsDeSanto & Co. Mr. Kohler graduated from the University of Virginia, where he earned a B.A. in economics.

Cianan E. Moore, Senior Associate. Prior to joining the firm, Mr. Moore began his career as an Investment Banking Analyst in J.P. Morgan’s Financial Sponsors Group. Mr. Moore graduated magna cum laude from Miami University, where he earned a B.S. in finance.

 

04 Sep 25. SciTec, a leader in the development of National Security solutions in missile warning, missile defense, and other warfighter-enabling capabilities, today announced the promotion of David Simenc to President. In his new role, Simenc will lead the company’s overall operations. Jim Lisowski, former President, will remain as CEO. (Source: PR Newswire)

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

10 Sep 25. Thales announced the appointment of Ankur Kanaglekar as Vice President for India, with effect from 10 September 2025. This strategic appointment underlines Thales’ commitment to expanding its footprint, strengthening local partnerships and accelerating innovation in support of the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. In his role, Ankur will oversee Thales’ strategy and operations in India, focusing on scaling up industrial collaboration, reinforcing local innovation and engineering capabilities, and delivering advanced solutions across defence, aerospace, and cyber and digital markets.

 

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

MARITIME

 

AIR

 

 

PLANT CLOSURES, JOB LOSSES AND STRIKES

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

 

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

MARITIME

 

AIR

 

 

PLANT CLOSURES, JOB LOSSES AND STRIKES

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

 

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

06 Sep 25. The King has been pleased to approve the following appointments:

• Rt Hon David Lammy MP as Lord Chancellor and Secretary of State for Justice. He will also be Deputy Prime Minister
• Rt Hon Darren Jones MP as Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster. He will remain Chief Secretary to the Prime Minister
• Rt Hon Yvette Cooper MP as Secretary of State for Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Affairs
• Rt Hon Shabana Mahmood MP as Secretary of State for the Home Department
• Rt Hon Steve Reed OBE MP as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government
• Rt Hon Pat McFadden MP as Secretary of State for Work and Pensions
• Rt Hon Peter Kyle MP as Secretary of State for Business and Trade and President of the Board of Trade
• Rt Hon Liz Kendall MP as Secretary of State for Science, Innovation and Technology
• Emma Reynolds MP as Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
• Rt Hon Douglas Alexander MP as Secretary of State for Scotland
• Rt Hon Jonathan Reynolds MP as Parliamentary Secretary to the Treasury (Chief Whip). He is a member of Cabinet
• Rt Hon Sir Alan Campbell MP as Lord President of the Council, and Leader of the House of Commons. He will attend Cabinet

Rt Hon Angela Rayner MP, Rt Hon Lucy Powell MP and Rt Hon Ian Murray MP have left the Government.

• Jason Stockwood as Minister of State (Minister for Investment) jointly in the Department for Business and Trade and HM Treasury
• Dan Jarvis MP as Minister of State in the Cabinet Office. He will remain Minister of State for the Home Department
• Rt Hon Baroness Smith of Malvern as Minister of State (Minister for Skills) in the Department for Work and Pensions. She will remain Minister of State (Minister for Skills and Minister for Women and Equalities) in the Department for Education
• Lord Vallance KCB as Minister of State in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. He will remain Minister of State in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology
• Michael Shanks MP as Minister of State jointly in the Department for Business and Trade and Department for Energy Security and Net Zero
• Alison McGovern MP as Minister of State in the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government
• Dame Angela Eagle DBE MP as Minister of State in the Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
• Rt Hon Dame Diana Johnson DBE MP as Minister of State in the Department for Work and Pensions
• Sarah Jones MP as Minister of State for the Home Department

His Majesty has also been pleased to signify His intention of conferring a Peerage of the United Kingdom for Life on Jason Stockwood.

Baroness Gustafsson CBE, Jim McMahon MP, and Daniel Zeichner MP have left the Government.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

05 Sep 25. USN Vice Adm. Richard A. Correll for appointment to the grade of admiral, with assignment as commander, U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska. Correll is currently serving as deputy commander, U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska.

 

05 Sep 25. USN Vice Adm. George M. Wikoff for appointment to the grade of admiral, with assignment as commander, U.S. Naval Forces Europe/commander, U.S. Naval Forces Africa/commander, Allied Joint Forces Command Naples, Naples, Italy. Wikoff is currently serving as commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Central Command/Commander, Fifth Fleet and Commander, Combined Maritime Forces, Manama, Bahrain.

 

05 Sep 25. USN Rear Adm. Heidi K. Berg for appointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as commander, Fleet Cyber Command/commander, Tenth Fleet/commander, USN Space Command, Fort Meade, Maryland. Berg is currently serving as deputy commander, Fleet Cyber Command/deputy commander, Tenth Fleet/deputy commander, USN Space Command, Fort Meade, Maryland.

 

05 Sep 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) Brad J. Collins for appointment to the grade of rear admiral.  Collins is currently serving as commander, 05 Sep 25. USN Region Hawaii, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

 

05 Sep 25. USMC Lt. Gen. Bradford J. Gering for appointment to the grade of general, with assignment as assistant commandant of the USMC, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Gering is currently serving as deputy commandant for Aviation, Headquarters, U.S. USMC, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

05 Sep 25. Army Lt. Gen. Jonathan P. Braga for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as commander, Joint Special Operations Command, U.S. Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Braga is currently serving as commanding general, U.S. Army Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

 

05 Sep 25. Army Lt. Gen. Michele H. Bredenkamp for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as director, National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Bredenkamp is currently serving as director’s advisor for Military Affairs, Office of the Director of National Intelligence, Washington, D.C.

 

05 Sep 25. USSF Lt. Gen. David N. Miller, Jr. for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general with assignment as deputy chief of Space Operations for Strategy, Plans, Programs, and Requirements, U.S. USSF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Miller is currently serving as commander, Space Operations Command, Peterson USSF Base, Colorado.

 

05 Sep 25. USSF Lt. Gen. Douglas A. Schiess for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy chief of Space Operations for Operations, Headquarters, U.S. USSF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Schiess is currently serving as commander, U.S. USSFs – Space/Combined Joint Force Space Component Commander, U.S. USSF, Vandenberg USSF Base, California.

 

05 Sep 25. Army MG Winston P. Brooks for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy chairman, NATO Military Committee, Belgium. Brooks served as commanding general, U.S. Army Fires Center of Excellence and Fort Sill, Fort Sill, Oklahoma.

 

05 Sep 25. USMC MG Joseph R. Clearfield for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as commander, U.S. USMC Forces Central Command, Tampa, Florida.  Clearfield is currently serving as the deputy commander, U.S. USMC Forces Central Command, Tampa, Florida.

 

05 Sep 25. USSF MG Gregory J. Gagnon for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as commander, U.S. USSF Combat Forces Command, Peterson USSF Base, Colorado. Gagnon is currently serving as deputy chief of Space Operations for Intelligence, U.S. USSF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

05 Sep 25. Army MG Joseph E. Hilbert for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as commanding general, Eighth Army/chief of staff, Combined Forces Command, Republic of Korea. Hilbert is currently serving as commanding general, 11th Airborne Division and U.S. Army Alaska, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.

 

05 Sep 25. Army MG James M. Smith for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as commanding general, Installation Management Command, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas. Smith is currently serving as deputy commanding general, Installation Management Command, Joint Base San Antonio, Texas.

 

05 Sep 25. USMC MG William H. Swan for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy commandant, Aviation, Headquarters, U.S. USMC, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Swan is currently serving as the inspector general, Headquarters, U.S. USMC, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

05 Sep 25. USSF MG Steven P. Whitney for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general with assignment as director, Force Structure, Resources and Assessment, J-8, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Whitney is currently serving as director of Staff, Headquarters, U.S. USSF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

05 Sep 25. USAF Col. Roderick T. Grunwald for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Grunwald is currently serving as mobilization assistant to Commander, Warner Robins Air Logistics Complex, Robins Air Force Base, Georgia.

 

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

PLANT CLOSURES, STRIKES AND JOB LOSSES

 

04 Sep 25. Boeing Defense plans to replace striking workers with new hires.

• Summary
• Boeing to hold job fair on September 16 for new hires
• Boeing has used non-union workers to maintain production
• Strike began August 4 after 3,200 IAM members rejected contract offer
• Union president urges Boeing to negotiate instead of hiring

Boeing Defense (BA.N), opens new tab plans to hire new workers to replace striking members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) who assemble munitions, fighters and other military aircraft in the St. Louis area, the company said in a message to employees on Thursday.

“Today, we’re starting the process to hire permanent replacement workers for manufacturing roles,” Boeing Defense Vice President Dan Gillian said in a message to employees on Thursday. “This will ensure we’re properly staffed to keep supporting our customers.” (Source: Reuters)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

02 Sep 25. Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton takes over from Admiral Sir Tony Radakin. Incoming Chief of Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton. Outgoing Chief of Defence Staff Admiral Sir Tony Radakin handed over today (2nd September) to his successor, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton. Sir Richard’s appointment was announced in June 2025, succeeding Admiral Radakin, who completed his four-year term, following his appointment in 2021.

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

03 Sep 25. Poland’s PGZ forms alliances with Babcock, Fincantieri. The new SCA expands Babcock and PGZ’s collaboration across sea and air domains. Polish Armaments Group (PGZ) has entered two collaborative ventures with defence companies Babcock International and Fincantieri during the MSPO defence industry exhibition in Kielce, Poland.  The strategic cooperation agreement (SCA) with UK-based Babcock is set to enhance joint efforts in naval and aerial defence sectors. Babcock and PGZ will combine their expertise in the design, maintenance, and management of maritime vessels, as well as in sustaining military aircraft and developing strategic asset management solutions for military use. Babcock’s existing operations in Gdynia and Warsaw are already working with PGZ on Poland’s Miecznik programme. In September 2024, Babcock extended its contract with PGZ to support the construction of Poland’s Miecznik-class frigates until the completion of the third and final vessel in 2031. Under this programme, Babcock will deliver three multifunctional frigates based on Arrowhead 140 design to the Polish Navy. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

03 Sep 25. JFD Global and Saab join forces to deliver enhanced naval capabilities.

• JFD Global and Saab sign strategic cooperation agreement to enhance naval capabilities
• The partnership combines local presence with global expertise to deliver advanced underwater solutions support
• Agreement supports growth of the company’s full defence portfolio in Sweden, including submarine rescue and life critical submarine capabilities

James Fisher Defence (JFD Global) a global provider of specialist marine and defence solutions enabling mission success at sea, has signed a Strategic Cooperation Agreement with Saab, a provider of world-leading products, services and solutions across defence.

The agreement combines the strengths and expertise of both organisations to deliver advanced, reliable and responsive support for customers in Sweden and across global markets. It will see the two companies collaborate on Swedish underwater programmes, and related submarine rescue solutions. The partnership will also extend to complementary areas of technology development in the underwater battlespace domain.  JFD Global has operated in Sweden together with Saab since 2010, primarily supporting the Royal Swedish Navy (RSwN) with its 55-tonne submarine rescue vehicle, URF. The company also maintains and supports an ANSTI breathing machine used for performance measurement of underwater breathing apparatus at the RSwN diving school. In recent years, the company has expanded its Swedish team to around 30 employees specialising in Tactical Diving Vehicles services at Rindö/Vaxholm in the Stockholm archipelago. Through this agreement JFD Global will accelerate its growth in Sweden by offering the full breadth of its defence capabilities while maintaining a strong local presence. The portfolio spans pressure chambers, military diving products inclusive of the recently launched Stealth Multi-Role rebreather, tactical diving vehicles, submarine platform and submarine rescue systems.

Thomas Ljungqvist, General Manager Sweden and the Nordics said: “This agreement with Saab strengthens our ability to support Sweden’s naval and diving community with the most advanced, reliable and responsive solutions available. By combining our in-country presence with the expertise from Saab, we can work even more closely with customers to meet their operational needs, address ongoing challenges and ensure that they have the safety, service and support they require – now and in the future.”

Joakim Mevius, Head of BU Submarines at Saab Kockums, commented: “Saab has entered a Strategic Cooperation Agreement with JFD to bring together complementary expertise with initial focus on submarine rescue systems. Together, we can offer integrated, reliable solutions that enhance safety and capability for missions in Sweden and around the world.”

 

02 Sep 25. Saab signs MoU with Polish company PGZ. Saab has entered into an agreement with the PGZ Group, Poland’s largest defence corporation. Both parties aim to establish cooperation as potential partners in projects supporting the security of Poland and Europe. m The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during the international defence industry exhibition MSPO in Kielce, Poland. It confirms the interest between the PGZ Group and Saab in exploring potential cooperation on projects related to the development of defence solutions for multi-domain operations. Both companies will also evaluate possibilities for joint initiatives supporting Ukraine, including cooperation with the Ukrainian industry.

“We are pleased to have signed this agreement today, and look forward to cooperating with the PGZ Group. This is another important milestone in strengthening the collaboration between the Polish and Swedish defence industries. There is great potential for expanding the existing partnership between our nations to ensure security and stability in Europe, including the Baltic Sea region,” says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.

The cooperation may include various projects across air, land, and naval domains. The goal is to build industrial relationships that could lead to a strategic partnership between the two companies and to play an active role in modernising the capabilities of the Polish Armed Forces.

 

02 Sep 25. Babcock and PGZ to expand relationship across sea and air domains. Babcock International Group (Babcock), the defence company, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement (SCA) with PGZ SA, the Polish Armaments Group, to expand their collaboration across sea and air domains. The SCA, signed during the defence industry exhibition MSPO in Kielce, Poland, will lead to enhanced co-operation between the two businesses: building defence systems and solutions to ensure cost-efficient and reliable through-life support solutions. The SCA will provide opportunities for the organisations to combine capabilities to design, build, repair and service naval assets, sustain military aircraft and co-develop solutions for strategic asset management for the armed forces. Babcock has an established presence in Gdynia and Warsaw, already working closely with PGZ SA as the platform design provider and technology partner for Poland’s Miecznik shipbuilding programme – with the ship design based on Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 platform. This program will provide the Polish Navy with three multi-role frigates, strengthening significantly its combat capabilities and ability to deter threats on the Baltic Sea and beyond.

David Lockwood, CEO, Babcock, who signed the SCA alongside Adam Leszkiewicz, CEO, PGZ SA said: “The UK and Poland has longstanding close ties, and this growing industrial partnership with PGZ SA will deepen our relationship and accelerate our support for the Polish armed forces, alongside our joint global ambitions across air and marine domains. The Miecznik programme is a great example of the benefits our relationship is already delivering. We look forward to building on these firm foundations.”

Adam Leszkiewicz, CEO, PGZ SA, added: “Building long-term partnerships with foreign partners is crucial to PGZ strategy. Our cooperation with Babcock demonstrates real partnership. Today’s agreement is a milestone in our cooperation, which we are building across various domains with decades in mind. Together, we strengthen not only the Polish Armed Forces but also NATO’s security and military potential”.

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

02 Sep 25. David King, appointed Indra Group’s director of United Kingdom and Ireland to drive its strategic expansion in the local markets. The company will reinforce its commitment to the UK and Irish markets, which currently account for 110 m euros in sales. David King has been appointed Indra Group’s new UK and Ireland director to reinforce and develop its local operations in the two high strategic value markets. Within the framework of the company’s “Leading the Future” Strategic Plan, the United Kingdom and Ireland have been identified as priority markets for enhancing its local structure and expanding operations. The business in the United Kingdom and Ireland currently accounts for 110 m euros in sales for the group, with growth chiefly based on exports of projects in areas such as air traffic management (ATM), mobility and defence.

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

02 Sep 25. Saab signs MoU with Polish company PGZ. Saab has entered into an agreement with the PGZ Group, Poland’s largest defence corporation. Both parties aim to establish cooperation as potential partners in projects supporting the security of Poland and Europe. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during the international defence industry exhibition MSPO in Kielce, Poland. It confirms the interest between the PGZ Group and Saab in exploring potential cooperation on projects related to the development of defence solutions for multi-domain operations. Both companies will also evaluate possibilities for joint initiatives supporting Ukraine, including cooperation with the Ukrainian industry.

“We are pleased to have signed this agreement today, and look forward to cooperating with the PGZ Group. This is another important milestone in strengthening the collaboration between the Polish and Swedish defence industries. There is great potential for expanding the existing partnership between our nations to ensure security and stability in Europe, including the Baltic Sea region,” says Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.

The cooperation may include various projects across air, land, and naval domains. The goal is to build industrial relationships that could lead to a strategic partnership between the two companies and to play an active role in modernising the capabilities of the Polish Armed Forces.

 

02 Sep 25. Babcock and PGZ to expand relationship across sea and air domains. Babcock International Group (Babcock), the defence company, has signed a strategic cooperation agreement (SCA) with PGZ SA, the Polish Armaments Group, to expand their collaboration across sea and air domains. The SCA, signed during the defence industry exhibition MSPO in Kielce, Poland, will lead to enhanced co-operation between the two businesses: building defence systems and solutions to ensure cost-efficient and reliable through-life support solutions. The SCA will provide opportunities for the organisations to combine capabilities to design, build, repair and service naval assets, sustain military aircraft and co-develop solutions for strategic asset management for the armed forces. Babcock has an established presence in Gdynia and Warsaw, already working closely with PGZ SA as the platform design provider and technology partner for Poland’s Miecznik shipbuilding programme – with the ship design based on Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 platform. This program will provide the Polish Navy with three multi-role frigates, strengthening significantly its combat capabilities and ability to deter threats on the Baltic Sea and beyond.

David Lockwood, CEO, Babcock, who signed the SCA alongside Adam Leszkiewicz, CEO, PGZ SA said: “The UK and Poland has longstanding close ties, and this growing industrial partnership with PGZ SA will deepen our relationship and accelerate our support for the Polish armed forces, alongside our joint global ambitions across air and marine domains. The Miecznik programme is a great example of the benefits our relationship is already delivering. We look forward to building on these firm foundations.”

Adam Leszkiewicz, CEO, PGZ SA, added: “Building long-term partnerships with foreign partners is crucial to PGZ strategy. Our cooperation with Babcock demonstrates real partnership. Today’s agreement is a milestone in our cooperation, which we are building across various domains with decades in mind. Together, we strengthen not only the Polish Armed Forces but also NATO’s security and military potential”.

LOCATIONS

 

MARITIME

 

27 Aug 25. India commissions two Nilgiri-class frigates. India has commissioned the two indigenously built multimission frigates that the Indian Navy received in July. The frigates, which are now in service as INS Udaygiri and INS Himgiri, were inducted into service at the Indian Navy’s base in Visakhapatnam on 26 August. Both warships are part of India’s Nilgiri (Project 17A)-class programme, and were constructed by two separate Indian shipyards, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL) and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers Limited (GRSE). Udaygiri was delivered to the Indian Navy on 1 July by MDL while Himgiri was handed over by GRSE on 31 July. Udaygiri’s keel was laid down in May 2019, and the ship was launched on 17 May 2022. Himgiri’s keel was laid down in November 2018 and launched in December 2020. While Himgiri is the second vessel in the programme in terms of pennant number sequence, the Indian Ministry of Defence has referred to this frigate as the third of class, with Udaygiri being the second of class. First-of-class INS Nilgiri was commissioned by the service in January 2025. The Nilgiri class has an overall length of 149 m, an overall beam of 17.8 m, and a hull draught of 5 m. It displaces about 6,700 tonnes at full load. (Source: Janes)

 

25 Aug 25. Admiral Nakhimov commences sea trials. Russian Kirov-class nuclear-powered cruiser Admiral Nakhimov commenced sea trials on 18 August 2025 following a lengthy modernisation programme at the Sevmash shipyard in Severodvinsk. Work officially began on the upgrade in December 2013, although the cruiser had been laid up in Severodvinsk since 1997. Originally commissioned as Kalinin in 1988, Admiral Nakhimov has undergone a substantial amount of work that has seen the 20 P-700 Granit (SS-N-19 ‘Shipwreck’) anti-ship cruise missiles (ASCMs), with which it was originally equipped, removed and replaced with a total of 80 UKSK vertical launching system (VLS) cells mounted in 10 eight-cell modules. The fitting of the UKSK VLS will bring considerably more operational flexibility as it will allow Admiral Nakhimov to launch all the weapons from the Kalibr family (the SS-N-27 ‘Sizzler’ anti-ship missile; the SS-N-30 ‘Sagaris’ land attack missile; and the SS-N-31 ‘Swordfish’ anti-submarine missile), plus the Oniks anti-ship missile (SS-N-26 ‘Strobile’) and the Tsirkon hypersonic missile (SS-N-33). In addition to new offensive weapons, the defensive suite has been upgraded. The original S-300F (SA-N-6 ‘Grumble’) long-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) system has been removed and replaced either with the navalised version of the S-300PMU1 (SA-N-20) or a new navalised S-400 (SA-21 ‘Growler’). Exactly which missile system is fitted is not currently clear, but new fire-control radars have been fitted fore and aft in place of the old Top Dome systems and these will likely provide more clues in time. (Source: Janes)

 

PLANT CLOSURES, STRIKES AND JOB LOSSES

 

22 Aug 25. In latest purge, Hegseth removes head of Pentagon intelligence agency, other senior officials.

• Summary
• Unclear why Kruse was fired, but he is latest official removed by Hegseth
• Democratic lawmaker slams move as politicizing intelligence
• Trump has gone after officials who are seen as at odds with himU.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth fired the head of the Pentagon’s intelligence agency and two other senior military commanders, three U.S. officials told Reuters on Friday, the latest move by President Donald Trump’s administration to purge officials at the Pentagon.

It was not immediately clear why Lieutenant General Jeffrey Kruse, who led the Defense Intelligence Agency, was fired. Hegseth’s purge broadened later on Friday. One U.S. official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, told Reuters that in addition to Kruse, Hegseth had also ordered the removal of the chief of U.S. Naval reserves and the commander of Naval Special Warfare Command. (Source: Reuters)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

25 Aug 25. Navy Installs 34th Chief of Naval Operations. Navy Adm. Daryl Caudle assumed the duties as the 34th chief of naval operations during an assumption of office ceremony, attended by over 300 Defense Department senior leaders, distinguished guests and families at the Washington Navy Yard today, in Washington.

 

25 Aug 25. Defense Innovation Unit head Doug Beck resigns. The director of the Pentagon’s commercial innovation hub, Doug Beck, has resigned from his post, Defense News has learned. First reported by Politico, the circumstances of Beck’s resignation from the Defense Innovation Unit were not immediately clear. A DIU spokesperson declined to comment, and the Pentagon did not immediately respond to a request for details. (Source: C4ISR & Networks)

 

INDUSTRY

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

25 Aug 25. Voyager Technologies, Inc. [NYSE: VOYG] appoints Paul Tilghman as Chief Technology Officer, effective August 25. Tilghman will spearhead Voyager’s technology strategy and innovation roadmap, accelerating the company’s mission-critical solutions across domains – ground, air and space. Tilghman’s career blends government, commercial and dual-use innovation at the highest levels. Most recently, as chief engineer of Connected Warfare at Anduril Industries, he launched a new Joint All-Domain Command and Control strategy, creating a Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations business area, new software products and fresh market opportunities. Tilghman also forged pivotal partnerships with the U.S. silicon technology base to bring entirely new categories of defense capabilities to market. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

15 Aug 25. MyDefence establishes new base in the UK. Counter-drone technology provider MyDefence has announced a new base in the United Kingdom as part of its commitment to strengthening United Kingdom–European Union defence ties.  “MyDefence systems are fully interoperable with the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) and are designed to support the United Kingdom government’s Strategic Defence Review, ensuring British forces receive immediate, field-ready capabilities to address emerging threats,” the company said in a press release. MyDefence has appointed former British Army officer, Liam Hutcheson, who has extensive experience in capability procurement and defence logistics.  (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

MARITIME

 

21 Aug 25. Strategic Marine and Eureka sign MoU for Aircat Bengal MC. The Aircat Bengal MC is designed to meet the needs of naval and maritime security operations. Singapore-based shipbuilder Strategic Marine has entered into a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Eureka Naval Craft for the production of Aircat Bengal MC modular attack surface craft. This collaboration unites Eureka’s Surface Effect Ship (SES) design with Strategic Marine’s shipbuilding proficiency. The aim is to create a new category of vessels that are not subject to International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and can serve both defence and civilian purposes. Non-ITAR are exempted from the regulations of the US International Traffic in Arms Regulations, which govern the export and import of defence-related articles and services.

Strategic Marine CEO Chan Eng Yew said: “We are proud to collaborate with Eureka on this groundbreaking project. Our Singapore shipyard is equipped with the latest technology and staffed by a highly experienced team, enabling us to deliver complex vessels quickly and at scale.”

The Aircat Bengal MC, extending 36 metres in length, builds upon the Aircat Crewliner 35 SES. It will be built at Strategic Marine’s advanced Singapore facilities. The vessel is tailored to meet the growing needs of naval forces and maritime security, as well as other sectors. It incorporates Greenroom Robotics’ GAMA maritime autonomy solution, which aligns with the US Navy’s Uncrewed Maritime Autonomy Architecture (UMAA) initiative for uncrewed surface vessels.

Eureka Naval Craft CEO Bo Jardine said: “Our collaboration also demonstrates the value of US-Singapore cooperation in driving innovation, strengthening supply chains, and supporting regional security. We are proud to contribute to the US DoD and US Navy’s vision for a more innovative, autonomous, and collaborative maritime force.”

As part of the MoU, both entities will work closely on finalising design details, construction plans, and project timelines for this vessel. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

20 Aug 25. Romanian defence minister confirms plan to acquire Hisar-class corvette. Romanian Minister of National Defence Ionuț Moșteanu confirmed on 15 August that the country’s Ministry of National Defence (MND) is awaiting parliamentary approval to purchase at least one of the Turkish-built Hisar-class offshore patrol vessels (OPVs).

“… next year we will have a new corvette. It is already completed in Türkiye, essentially turnkey, awaiting parliamentary approval in September. We have sent the request, since this is an acquisition of over EUR100m [USD117m],” Moșteanu said.

In September 2023, two Hisar-class OPVs, TCG Akhisar and TCG Koçhisar, were launched at Istanbul Naval Shipyard. Each vessel has a length of 99.56m with a beam of 14.42m, a draught of 3.77m, and a displacement of around 2,300 tonnes. They are based on a modified Turkish National Ship Project (Milli Gemi Projesi: MILGEM) corvette design. To support sustained operations, the ships employ a combined diesel-electric or diesel (CODELOD) propulsion configuration, in which four diesel generators supply power to two electric motors driving a pair of controllable-pitch propellers. This system allows for long-range, fuel-efficient cruising while still enabling a maximum speed of 24 kt. At an economical speed of 12 kt, the vessels can achieve a range of approximately 4,500 nm. Designed for multiple mission profiles, including intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR); search and rescue; counter-terrorism; maritime surveillance; and special operations, the ships are being constructed with a ‘fitted for but not with’ approach, which enables additional weapon and sensor systems to be integrated at a later stage according to operational requirements. (Source: Janes)

 

19 Aug 25. Pakistan Navy’s third Hangor-class submarine launched in China. Four of these submarines are being built in China and the remaining four will be built domestically. The third submarine in Pakistan Navy’s Hangor-class series, PNS Mangro (Desig), was launched at Wuchang Shipbuilding Industry Group Company’s Shuangliu Base in Wuhan, China. This event marks a significant step in the agreement between the Government of Pakistan and China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Company (CSOC) for the acquisition of eight Hangor-class submarines. As per the contract stipulations, half of these submarines are being constructed in China. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

AIR

 

19 Aug 25. Five more S-70i Black Hawks enter Philippine Air Force. This builds on the 32-strong fleet that Lockheed Martin’s Polish subsidiary have been tasked to deliver to the service since 2022. The Philippine Air Force (PAF) have inducted five more S-70i Black Hawk multirole helicopters from Lockheed Martin’s Polish subsidiary PLZ Mielec. This order builds on the 32-strong fleet the company is building for the service since 2022. The PAF’s S-70i Black Hawks are used for a range of military missions and operations across the diverse archipelago – from tactical exercises and humanitarian response, to jungle warfare support, and security operations. In April 2025, the manufacturer recalled that the PAF deployed the S-70i helicopters as part of a joint training exercise through the 205th Tactical Helicopter Wing in cooperation with the Philippine Navy aboard the BRP Davao del Sur. In May, the PAF and the US Air Force conducted the joint Cope Thunder Philippines exercise, which involved aircraft from both navies in the air and on land.

“As Poland’s largest arms exporter, each delivery is a testament to the skills and commitment of our Polish employees,” commented Janusz Zakręcki, president of the management board and general director of PZL Mielec. “We remain focused on delivering reliable and versatile platforms that enhance the operational readiness of our partners worldwide.” (Source: airforce-technology.com)

 

PLANT CLOSURES, STRIKES AND JOB LOSSES

 

21 Aug 25. Boeing Defense workers hold out for better deal, keeping fighter jet production idle.

Summary

• Striking workers want deal closer to 38% wage hike, IAM official says
• Boeing executive defends company’s last offer as strong
• F-15, F/A-18 fighter production lines remain shut down

Top machinists union officials and a Democratic congressman joined striking workers outside a Boeing Defense facility near St. Louis on Thursday, pressing the company for a contract closer to an agreement reached with its Seattle-area workers. However, Boeing’s (BA.N) top St. Louis executive, Dan Gillian, on Thursday defended the company’s offer that was rejected by the 3,200 members of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) District 837. (Source: Reuters)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

15 Aug 25. U.S. Africa Command held a change of command ceremony Aug. 15, 2025, at Kelley Barracks, Stuttgart, Germany, as Marine Corps Gen. Michael E. Langley formally transferred command to Air Force Gen. Dagvin R.M. Anderson.

 

19 Aug 25. Gen. David Allvin, the Air Force’s chief of staff, will retire this November after two years as the service’s highest-ranking uniformed officer. In a surprise announcement Monday, the Air Force said Allvin plans to continue serving as chief of staff until his successor is nominated and confirmed, to minimize disruption during the leadership change. (Source: C4ISR & Networks)

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

20 Aug 25. Terma and Boeing sign MoU to explore P-8 maintenance collaboration in Denmark. The agreement reinforces both companies’ long-term partnership and shared ambition to strengthen Denmark’s national defense capabilities through local MRO solutions for the P-8 aircraft. Terma and Boeing have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) aimed at exploring cooperation on Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) support for the P-8 maritime patrol aircraft in Denmark. The announcement was made during a signing ceremony at this year’s DALO Industry Days, underscoring the importance of industrial collaboration in enhancing national defense readiness. By joining forces, Terma and Boeing are not only addressing immediate operational needs, but also laying the groundwork for a more resilient and self-sufficient defense support structure in Denmark – one that enhances national security while fostering long-term industrial growth.

“This agreement marks an important step in our ambition to strengthen Denmark’s position in critical sustainment capabilities. We believe that robust MRO infrastructure is essential to ensuring operational availability of key assets such as the P-8. If the Danish Defense decides on acquiring the P-8 as a new military platform, we – as the industry, stand ready to support By formalizing our intent to collaborate with Boeing, we are not only deepening an already strong relationship – we are also aligning our industrial capabilities to strengthen national resilience,” states Thomas Flarup, Chief Commercial Officer at Terma

As industry leaders, Terma and Boeing share a vision to support allies through innovation, local expertise, and robust sustainment services. By exploring options for a dedicated P-8 MRO capability in Denmark, the two companies aim to contribute meaningfully to Denmark’s operational resilience.

“Terma is an enduring supplier to Boeing’s P-8 program and we have collaborated together for over a decade to advance Denmark’s aerospace ecosystem on projects such as the Harpoon Missile Simulator, a realistic training environment for the operation of advanced missile systems,” said Maria Laine, president of Boeing United Kingdom, Ireland, and the Nordics.

“In the face of global challenges, this MoU fortifies our shared vision for a stronger, more capable defense industrial base, and we are proud to stand beside Denmark’s largest defense company to deliver enhanced sovereign fleet support if Denmark selects the P-8 for its maritime patrol aircraft requirement.”

Terma has been a long-standing supplier to Boeing’s P-8 program. This MoU builds on that foundation, reflecting both companies’ commitment to deepen cooperation and deliver added value to customers.

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

18 Aug 25. AllClear Aerospace & Defense, a leading global distributor of critical aftermarket components and provider of mission ready sustainment solutions and services for military aircraft, announced today the appointment of Bill Boucek to be the company’s Chief Executive Officer. Together with the recent completion of AllClear’s recapitalization, which included the significant deleveraging of its balance sheet and the provision of additional funding by the company’s lenders, the appointment of new corporate leadership marks a critical milestone in the ongoing transformation of the company’s operating and financial profile. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

18 Aug 25. Comtech Telecommunications Corp. (NASDAQ: CMTL) (“Comtech” or the “Company”), a global communications technology leader, today announced that its Board of Directors (the “Board”) has appointed Lloyd A. Sprung as an independent director, effective August 18, 2025. Mr. Sprung possesses more than three decades of corporate finance and capital markets experience, having held senior executive roles at leading investment banks including Evercore and UBS. He is currently the managing member of LAS Advisors, an independent financial and strategic advisory firm.

 

20 Aug 25. QinetiQ US  announces the appointment of Donna M. Wilson as Chief Financial Officer, strengthening the company’s financial leadership as it pursues strategic growth initiatives across defense and national security markets. Wilson joins QinetiQ US with more than 30 years of leadership experience in federal government contracting and international markets. She most recently served as CFO at Top Aces Corp, where she successfully developed and led a new U.S. finance organization while overseeing company integration into a unified U.S. corporate structure. Her previous roles include CFO at ST Engineering iDirect, directing financial operations across U.S. and international entities, and leading her own consulting firm. Earlier in her career, she spent 15 years at Unisys Federal Systems in finance leadership positions, including Division CFO, P&L leader, and Controller.  (Source: PR Newswire)

VACANCIES

 

11 Aug 25. UK MoD pushes the boat out for Spain-based FSS oversight roles. Job descriptions mention management of “trade-offs” and “design compromises” among a range of other responsibilities. The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) is recruiting for three roles to be based at Navantia’s Cadiz shipyard in Spain as part of the programme to construct three Fleet Solid Support (FSS) vessels for the UK Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA), the civilian-led logistics and supply arm of the Royal Navy. All told, the salaries for the three roles total between £149,700 and £162,600, with the seniormost role, that of the Constructive Engineering Lead, commanding a top salary of £64,200. The roles, fixed for a period of two years, also come with a range of other benefits including an average employer pension contribution of 28.97%. All three roles will be under Defence Equipment & Support, itself part of the MoD. Broadly similar in terms of job description, the positions are tasked with “ensuring that the aft sections of the FSS ships being constructed at the Navantia Puerto Real shipyard in Spain meet the highest standards of quality, design, and operational excellence”. Among the listed responsibilities include the need to “own trade-offs” with other subsystem teams and specialists “over technical requirements and design compromises to maximise successfully system implementation and delivery”. In October 2024 the FSS programme completed its Preliminary Design Review, marking the transition to detailed design work. According to the job descriptions, the build strategy for the FSS is for the aft section of each ship, including machinery spaces, accommodation areas, and the bridge, to be built in Spain, with full assembling and commissioning in Belfast at Harland & Wolff. Construction planned to begin at the end of 2025, broadly on track with the initial timelines, although the first of the three vessels is not expected to enter service until 2031. The current fleet solid support vessel, RFA Fort Victoria, is due to be removed from service in 2028, although it could be extended if the vessel is found to be in good enough condition. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

08 Aug 25. Bittium Strengthens Its Operations in the United Kingdom. Bittium has established a legal entity in the United Kingdom (UK). Local presence in the UK strengthens the company’s position and supports operational activities with local customers and partners. To manage the UK company’s operations, Bittium has appointed Mr. Dean Aldridge. Mr. Aldridge is responsible for the Defense & Security business segment’s sales operations in the UK. He transfers to Bittium from Wind River Aerospace & Defense, where he was responsible for sales. Prior to this, Mr. Aldridge has been acting in various business and sales management positions in the defense industry. Prior to his civilian career, Mr. Aldridge served as a commissioned officer in the UK military (Royal Navy Fleet Air Arm) for over 22 years.

”The decision to strengthen our operations in the UK is part of our strategic target to grow in the European market. Over the last few years, we have been building up our cooperation network with significant players in the defense industry. Growing the local presence in strategically important areas is necessary for international growth. Local presence in the UK also supports our objective to participate in tactical communication tenders together with BAE Systems. I am very happy to be able to share the announcement about Mr. Aldridge starting to lead our UK operations. His extensive experience both in the UK military and in exporting defense technology products and solutions to international markets strengthens our position”, says Mr. Tommi Kangas, Senior Vice President, Defense & Security Business Segment at Bittium.

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

13 Aug 25. Cubic Defense announces strategic partnership. The collaboration offers Cubic with exclusive rights to offer VIPER and DART MAX products to clients in the Middle East and Singapore. Cubic Defense has established a strategic partnership with ShootHouse and Digimation to deliver “cost-effective” simulation training solutions to customers in the Middle East and Singapore. The collaboration offers Cubic with exclusive rights to offer VIPER and DART MAX products to clients in the Middle East and Singapore. The EST4000 Standard (S) is built on ShootHouse’s VIPER software and can be equipped with various add-ons such as tetherless recoil systems, shootback simulation, live fire options, and weapon handling data capture. The EST4000 Live, Virtual and Constructive (LVC) also uses VIPER software but incorporates Cubic’s LVC training technology. The LVC platform offers a comprehensive range of proficiencies and introduces capabilities that were previously unavailable in simulation shooting ranges. These include UAVs, indirect weapon effects, electronic warfare, ISTAR capabilities, helicopters, and CCTV systems. In addition, the EST4000 Advanced is based on Digimation’s DART MAX software. It features 4K resolution CGI, extensive AI use, Arabic language models, and allows users to create and save unlimited scenarios for training purposes. This platform is specifically designed to provide game-changing technology to the Middle East and Singapore markets with significant AI growth opportunities. The realistic and portable training solutions replicate real-world scenarios, enabling personnel to enhance their decision-making, marksmanship, and tactical skills without the need for physical ranges, said Cubic. Additionally, Cubic will deliver customised operational and maintenance support within these regions to address specific customer needs. Cubic Defense vice president and general manager Alicia Combs said: “This collaboration reflects a shared commitment to equipping global law enforcement and military teams with the most advanced and effective training solutions. The EST4000 capability delivers a tailor-made, cost-effective way to experience and learn from life-threatening situations in a safe environment to improve firearm proficiency and critical decision-making skills.”  In April 2025, Cubic Defense secured a position on an eight-year indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract to provide services to the US Army’s Program Executive Officer (PEO) Simulation, Training and Instrumentation (STRI) programmes.  (Source: army-technology.com)

 

13 Aug 25. Lockheed Martin [NYSE: LMT] is expanding its industrial collaboration package for the Philippines as part of its F-16 Block 70 solution for the country’s Multi Role Fighter program. The enhanced offer includes a strategic partnership with Southern Methodist University (SMU) to drive digital innovation, intellectual property creation, and workforce development with Philippine universities and industry. The partnership will provide a comprehensive platform for technology and knowledge transfer, including funding for business incubation, government initiatives, and academic programs. A world-class research lab and training space will be established, enabling Filipino professionals to develop innovative solutions and prototypes that can be applied in various industries.

“We are committed to investing in the development of new capabilities and intellectual properties in close collaboration with leading universities and companies in the Philippines,” said Jess Koloini, Lockheed Martin F-16 Business Development. “This partnership will not only support the country’s Self-Reliant Defense Posture (SRDP) but also create a lasting impact on the Filipino workforce, driving economic growth and prosperity.”

The partnership will leverage the expertise of SMU’s Center for Digital and Human-Augmented Manufacturing (CDHAM) and Deason Innovation Gym (DIG) to significantly enhance the Philippines’ research and development capacity in digital modeling, simulations, virtual and augmented reality, robotics, automation and Artificial Intelligence.

Key components of the partnership include:

• Access to state-of-the-art innovation tools and equipment located at SMU, enabling Filipino professionals to develop innovative solutions and prototypes
• Funding for business incubation, government initiatives, and academic programs
• Establishment of a world-class research lab and training space
• Collaboration with leading universities and companies in the Philippines to develop new capabilities and intellectual properties

“This partnership is an investment in the strength of the Filipino workforce,” said Dr. Ben Zoghi, Southern Methodist University Associate Dean for Advanced Studies and Industry Partnerships. “These projects will significantly boost the Philippines’ academia and industry, enabling them to leverage digital innovation technologies to drive economic growth and global industrial competitiveness.”

The F-16 Block 70 is the most advanced version of the F-16 fighter jet, offering unparalleled capabilities and performance. Lockheed Martin’s industrial collaboration package is designed to support the Philippines’ economic development and SRDP goals, while also enhancing the country’s security capabilities.

 

12 Aug 25. Rohde & Schwarz Australia and STS Defence team up for Hunter Class Frigate Program. Rohde & Schwarz Australia has selected STS Defence to supply the critical communications masts that will enable the Royal Australian Navy’s new Hunter class frigates to communicate effectively across a range of frequency bands. Rohde & Schwarz Australia has awarded a contract to STS Defence to provide the twin integrated main configurable communications masts for the Royal Australian Navy’s first three Hunter class frigates being delivered under the Hunter Class Frigate Program (HCFP). As a key partner in the HCFP program, Rohde & Schwarz Australia has selected STS Defence to supply the critical communications masts that, when integrated with NAVICS Multi-Level Security (MLS) systems, will enable the Royal Australian Navy’s new Hunter class frigates to communicate effectively across a range of frequency bands.

“We are delighted to have STS Defence on board as a key supplier for the HCFP,” said Gareth Evans, Managing Director of Rohde & Schwarz Australia. “STS Defence’s expertise in the design and manufacture of high-quality communications masts will be essential in ensuring the success of the Hunter program.”

Ben Stancliffe, Managing Director of STS Defence, added: “We are thrilled to be a part of this flagship program for STS Defence, which showcases our technology, design, and integration capabilities. We are immensely proud to be providing this mission-critical system to one of the most advanced warships in the world. Our team has worked closely with Rohde & Schwarz Australia to ensure that the communications masts meet the Royal Australian Navy’s requirements, and we look forward to delivering high-quality products that will support the success of the Hunter Class Frigate Program.”

STS Defence is the Design Authority for the masts and has successfully completed scoping, risk reduction, and detailed design studies, leading to Lloyd’s Certification. The design is based on the main communications mast that STS Defence supplied for the UK Royal Navy’s Type 26 frigates.

“We are confident that STS Defence will deliver high-quality communications masts that integrate with the ship and the NAVICS MLS system meet the Royal Australian Navy’s requirements,” concluded Mr. Evans. (Source: ASD Network)

 

08 Aug 25. Embraer (NYSE: ERJ / B3: EMBR3), a global leader in the aerospace industry, signed today several Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with key Lithuanian partners, marking a significant step toward long-term cooperation in aerospace, defense and innovation. The agreements were signed with eight prominent Lithuanian institutions and companies including Kaunas University of Technology (KTU), Vilnius Gediminas Technical University (Vilnius Tech), Aktyvus Photonics, J&C Aero, Nordic Aircraft Systems, Brolis Defence, DAT, and Baltic Institute of Advanced Technology (BPTI).

“These partnerships reflect Embraer’s commitment to fostering innovation and strengthening global industrial and defense capabilities through strategic cooperation. Lithuania’s growing aerospace ecosystem and technological expertise make it an ideal environment for Embraer’s long-term vision in Europe,” said Fabio Caparica, Vice President of Contracts at Embraer Defense & Security.

The MoUs encompass a wide range of high-value areas, including:

• Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO)
• Engineering and Innovation
• Technological Development
• Supply Chain Management

Today’s ceremony follows the selection in June 2025 of Embraer’s C-390 multi-mission aircraft by Lithuania to enhance its defense capabilities and interoperability. This selection aligns with European and NATO allies—including Portugal, Slovakia, Hungary, the Netherlands, Austria, the Czech Republic, and Sweden—that have also selected this new generation aircraft to modernize their air forces. Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the Portuguese Air Force in 2023 and, most recently with the Hungarian Air Force in 2024, the C-390 Millennium has proven its capability, reliability, and performance. The current fleet in operation has demonstrated a mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%. The C-390 can carry more payload (26 tons) compared to other medium-sized military transport aircraft and flies faster (470 knots) and farther, being capable of performing a wide range of missions, such as transporting and dropping cargo and troops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting and humanitarian missions, operating on temporary or unpaved runways, such as packed earth, soil and gravel. The aircraft configured with air-to-air refueling equipment, with the designation KC-390, has already proven its aerial refueling capacity both as a tanker and as a receiver, in this case by receiving fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed under the wings.

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

31 Jul 25. NP Aerospace, the global vehicle integrator and armour manufacturer, has appointed Richard Smith as Chief Operating Officer (COO) of the company. This addition to the Senior Executive Team (pictured) further strengthens the company’s growth strategy which includes the recent opening of the new 5.73-acre NP Aerospace UK Defence facility in Coventry. Bringing 25 years of operational leadership experience in complex manufacturing environments, Richard is a Chartered Mechanical Engineer with specialist expertise gained during an extensive career. Having previously worked as Chief Manufacturing Officer at Helix, Group Managing Director at Ricor Group, Senior Operations Director at Norma Group, and Chief Operating Officer at Tharsus Vision the new COO is an asset to NP Aerospace at a time of rapid growth. This period of expansion is being backed by NatWest, who is providing NP Aerospace with a multi-m-pound funding package to grow its global business. NatWest is a proud supporter of customers operating in the defence sector.  In his new role, Richard will focus on global operational capability to support the company’s growth trajectory. With NP Aerospace having achieved mid-tier company status, with a turnover of over £50 m, taking on increasingly more complex projects from a portfolio of large contracts, the newest member of the Senior Executive Team will play a crucial role in powering the next phase of growth.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

07 Aug 25. KBR (NYSE: KBR) announced today the appointment of Huibert H. Vigeveno to its board of directors effective August 5, 2025. Mr. Vigeveno, 55, brings a wealth of energy and industrial sector expertise to KBR’s board, a result of his 30 years of distinguished service with Shell. Mr. Vigeveno joined Shell in the U.K. in 1995 and gained significant sales, marketing, strategy and general management experience across the enterprise. Mr. Vigeveno also has substantial experience with mergers, acquisitions and similar strategic transactions. From January 2020 to March 2025, he served as a member of Shell plc’s executive committee and as director of Downstream, Renewables and Energy Solutions. From 2017 to 2019, Mr. Vigeveno was executive vice president of Global Commercial. Prior to that role, from 2015 to 2016, he led the integration and served as transition CEO of BG Group in the U.K. following its acquisition by Shell. Other roles include executive chairman of Shell China (2012 to 2015) and vice president of Shell Supply and Distribution in Europe and Africa (2009 to 2012). Mr. Vigeveno will officially step down at Shell in September 2025 to pursue other opportunities. He holds a Master of Business Administration degree from Erasmus University Rotterdam in the Netherlands.

 

11 Aug 25. Peraton announced the appointment of Ravi Dankanikote as its new chief growth officer (CGO). In his role, Ravi will spearhead Peraton’s enterprise growth strategy, lead business development across all markets, build and strengthen strategic customer relationships, and ensure alignment between the company’s capabilities and customer challenges. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

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JOB VACANCIES

 

04 Aug 25. Join the Future Combat Air System programme at Dstl. Play a pivotal role in safeguarding the UK’s future and shape the next generation of combat air technology, by joining the FCAS programme. The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) encompasses a series of highly integrated and aligned programmes and military capabilities. This system will have a crewed aircraft at its heart. It will network and collaborate with a range of wider air and broader domain capabilities, including F-35, and use information systems, weapons and uncrewed collaborative combat air platforms to complete the capability.

Be part of a joint international programme

The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is a trilateral acquisition programme launched with Japan and Italy to develop the core platform (aircraft) which will be at the heart of the UK’s and our partners’ future Combat Air systems. This joint international programme is a jointly funded and delivered international programme to develop and deliver a new fighter aircraft. To put this challenge into context, when the current UK constructed fast jet, the Eurofighter (a fourth generation type) was being designed in the 1980s, the European car of the year was the Ford Escort. Our other current fast jet, the US-Built F-35 Lightning II (a fifth generation type) was designed in the 1990s, when the Fordo Mondeo was car of the year. The F-35 though has been described as a ‘Flying Software Testbed’ with significant PE and approximately 8 m lines of code.

What’s at the core of FCAS and GCAP

Programmable Elements (PE), especially software, are at the heart of FCAS and GCAP. The ability to perform frequent, sometimes rapid, software updates is also a critical part of achieving and sustaining operational effectiveness.

What the MOD PE team do

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) PE team has wide ranging responsibility, covering:

• artificial intelligence (AI) and data
• applications
• operating systems
• virtualisation
• complex electronic hardware

Working with industry and international partner governments, they also strive to create and promote the environment in which quality PE are effectively delivered at pace.

Be part of building the sixth generation fast jet

GCAP will be a sixth generation fast jet, which will build on fifth generation properties, such as, low observability and systems integration, adding autonomy, but the key will be fast adaptability. And the only way to achieve this is through its PE quality to do so. If you are interested in a challenging opportunity to use your PE skills to benefit one of the MOD’s highest priority acquisition programs and help get the UK’s next manned and unmanned fast jets flying safely and securely, we want to hear from you. As part of the FCAS team, you’ll contribute to one of the most complex and fast-paced acquisition defence programmes to date. With the groundbreaking GCAP collaboration between the UK, Japan, and Italy, this initiative is set to deliver the state-of-the-art fighter jet, Tempest, by 2035. This is an unparalleled opportunity to be part of a programme that is revolutionizing the UK’s combat air industry, supporting national security and economic growth. You’ll work at the cutting edge of technology, surrounded by a passionate team committed to excellence.

Apply to work for the FCAS programme

We will keep this page updated with the latest available roles.

Sensing, Communications and Non-Kinetic Effects

1 x Positioning & Timing Scientists & Engineers, L6

Airframe, Shaping and Flight Systems

1 x Flight Control Systems Engineer

Benefits of working at Dstl

As well as a rewarding career in defence science and technology, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) offers a wide range of benefits and training opportunities in a supportive, encouraging and flexible environment. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

 

LOCATIONS

 

MARITIME

 

05 Aug 25. Italian Navy receives tenth FREMM frigate ‘Emilio Bianchi.’ Emilio Bianchi can achieve speeds exceeding 27 knots and has the capacity to accommodate a crew of up to 200 personnel. The Italian Navy has taken delivery of Emilio Bianchi (F 589), its tenth FREMM (European Multi-Mission Frigate) multi-mission frigate from Orizzonte Sistemi Navali, a joint venture owned by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and Leonardo. The Emilio Bianchi, constructed at Fincantieri’s Integrated Shipyard in Riva Trigoso and Muggiano, features advanced systems from Fincantieri, Leonardo, MBDA, and Elettronica. The vessel is designed to offer high operational flexibility and perform effectively across a wide range of tactical scenarios. With a length of 144 metres (m) and a width of 19.7m, the frigate displaces approximately 6,700 tonnes when fully loaded. It can achieve speeds exceeding 27 knots and has the capacity to accommodate a crew of up to 200 personnel. This tenth FREMM unit was commissioned from Orizzonte Sistemi Navali under an Italy-France international cooperation agreement managed by Organisation Conjointe de Coopération en matière d’Armement (OCCAR). The FREMM programme was launched in 2005, with the first ship delivered in May 2013. FREMM frigates feature high automation, advanced onboard systems and reduced maintenance requirements, stated Fincantieri. The ten units under this programme include four in general purpose configuration, four anti-submarine warfare, and two anti-submarine enhanced. The handover of the Emilio Bianchi marks the completion of the anti-submarine enhanced configuration naval units under the programme.

In a statement, Orizzonte Sistemi Navali said: “This is a significant milestone for the programme, which remains one of the most important European industrial cooperation initiatives in the field of naval defence.

“We are proud to have played a key role in consolidating a strategic and excellent naval asset, aimed at meeting the future challenges of maritime security.”

In April 2025, Fincantieri commenced construction of two next-generation “EVOLUTION” frigates, known as FREMM EVO, with expected delivery dates in 2029 and 2030. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

PLANT CLOSURES, STRIKES AND JOB LOSSES

 

04 Aug 25. Over 3,000 Boeing fighter jet workers go on strike after rejecting contract offer. More than 3,200 union members who assemble Boeing’s (BA.N) fighter jets in the St. Louis area and Illinois went on strike on Monday after rejecting a second contract offer the previous day. Boeing Defense said it was ready for the work stoppage and it will implement a contingency plan that uses non-labor workers. According to the company, the rejected four-year contract would have raised the average wage by roughly 40% and included a 20% general wage increase and a $5,000 ratification bonus. It also included increasing periodic raises, more vacation time and sick leave. (Source: Reuters)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

06 Aug 25. Space Scotland  has appointed Dr Natasha Nicholson as its new Chief Executive Officer, following an extensive and highly competitive recruitment process. Dr Nicholson returns to not-for-profit Space Scotland after playing a key role during its formative phase as Cluster Manager. She brings a strong track record of delivery and stakeholder engagement, alongside scientific expertise and deep understanding of Scotland’s space ecosystem.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

04 Aug 25. USAF Brig. Gen. Christopher M. Blomquist for appointment to the grade of major general. Blomquist is currently serving as chief of staff, Minnesota Air National Guard, Saint St. Paul, Minnesota.

 

04 Aug 25. USAF Brig. Gen. Gary R. Charlton II for appointment to the grade of major general.  Charlton is currently serving as assistant adjutant general, New York Air National Guard, Latham, New York.

 

04 Aug 25. USAF Brig. Gen. James D. Cleet for appointment to the grade of major general. Cleet is currently serving as deputy director of Operations for Information Operations, Cyber Operations, Integrated Air and Missile Defense, and Nuclear Command, Control and Communications, U.S.  European Command, Stuttgart-Vaihingen, Germany.

 

04 Aug 25. USAF Brig. Gen. Christopher A. Jarratt for appointment to the grade of major general.  Jarratt is currently serving as acting director, Programs and Requirements, National Guard Bureau, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

04 Aug 25. USAF Brig. Gen.  Jason W. Knight for appointment to the grade of major general. Knight is currently serving as deputy director, Space Operations, National Guard Bureau, Air National Guard Readiness Center, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

 

04 Aug 25. USAF Brig. Gen.  Gregory A. Krane for appointment to the grade of major general. Krane is currently serving as deputy director, Homeland Defense and Hemispheric Affairs, J-5, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

IN MEMORIAM

 

06 Aug 25. I was saddened to hear of the passing of Lt. Col John Hoskins Chairman of Hall & Watts today. John was the first person I ever met in the MoD in 1985 when he was Head of the Defence Sales Artillery Team at Larkhill. His future wife Karen was in the same office. He very kindly 6×6 SMC Sandringham 136” Gun Tractor at Larkhill for demonstrations. He was very understanding when a Middle East delegation overturned the gun on a slope and it rolled down the hill! He was a mine of information and also an excellent host loving his food and drink. I was honoured to attend his annual party last month. A true friend, he will be missed, my condolences to Karen, Ed, David and the rest of the family. He and Hall & Watts wedre also huge contributors to the Chepstow Military Raceday

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

25 Jul 25. USAF Col. Kimberly A. McCue for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. McCue is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, Air Force Medical Agency Bravo, Defense Health Headquarters, Falls Church, Virginia.

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

28 Jul 25. Strategic Cooperation in Defense Technologies Between HAVELSAN and Karel Europe. HAVELSAN, a leading Turkish technology company delivering high-tech software and integrated system solutions in defense (especially C4ISR, command & control, simulation, and cybersecurity) and information technologies, with a strong global presence, and KAREL EUROPE, the Romania-based subsidiary of Karel—a company active in electronics, communication technologies, and the defense industry—have signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at the IDEF 2025 International Defense Industry Fair. This strategic partnership reinforces the commitment of both organizations to develop solutions based on advanced technologies in the defense sector and aims to provide integrated, high-tech solutions to meet the needs of the Romanian defense industry. Under the signed MoU, the parties have agreed to carry out joint business development activities and collaborate operationally on projects in the fields of defense and information technologies.

Sevket Ünal, Vice President of International Business Development and Marketing at HAVELSAN, noted that last year, for the first time, the company exported its products to a European Union country, delivering high-tech solutions to Romania in the field of e-maritime. He stated: Market Dynamics, Impact and Opportunity Analysis, and Leading Companies

“The ongoing business opportunities and bilateral meetings in the Romanian market could soon lead to the realization of new projects. In this regard, we continue to engage with companies based in Romania. The Memorandum of Understanding we signed with Karel Europe, one of these companies, will also open doors to potential new military or civilian business opportunities in Romania.”

Commenting on the strategic cooperation, Yavuz Bayiz, Head of Karel’s Defense Technologies Group, said:

“The Memorandum of Understanding we signed with HAVELSAN is a significant step towards expanding the presence of our defense industry in Europe through high-tech transformation projects. As Karel Europe, by combining Karel’s engineering strength in military communications and electronic systems with HAVELSAN’s software-intensive solutions, we aim to deliver integrated and high value-added solutions for the Romanian defense industry. We hope that such collaborations, which create synergy in the defense industry, will continue to grow in number.” (Source: ASD Network

 

LOCATIONS

 

MARITIME

 

23 Jul 25. RFA Stirling Castle transferred to Royal Navy. Acquired in 2023 for the Royal Fleet Auxiliary, RFA Stirling Castle has been officially redesignated as a fully commissioned warship of the Royal Navy fleet – therefore becoming HMS Stirling Castle. (Crown Copyright) The UK’s Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) minehunting mother ship RFA Stirling Castle has been officially transferred to the Royal Navy (RN), the service has confirmed. In a ceremony held at West Float Dock, Birkenhead, on 21 July, the White Ensign was raised and the ship was redesignated as a fully commissioned RN warship, becoming HMS Stirling Castle. During the event, the ship’s company of 45 sailors and officers also boarded the vessel. Stirling Castle will be based at His Majesty’s Naval Base (HMNB) Portsmouth, and there are plans in the future to repaint it grey. The move will enable the ship to be “committed 100 per cent of its time” to front-line operations protecting UK waters from underwater threats, the RN said, while freeing RFA personnel to focus on their primary task of the fleet’s tankers and support ships. Stirling Castle (ex-MV Island Crown) was purchased second-hand by the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) from Island Offshore Management in early 2023 to serve as a host platform for offboard autonomous mine-countermeasures (MCM) payloads previously procured under Project Wilton and Block 1 of the RN’s Mine Hunting Capability (MHC) programme. (Source: Janes)

 

PLANT CLOSURES, STRIKES AND JOB LOSSES

 

22 Jul 25. UKRN decommissions last Trafalgar-class submarine. The introduction of the Astute-class submarines has led to the gradual retirement of the Trafalgar-class fleet. The UK Royal Navy (UKRN) has formally decommissioned HMS Triumph, the last Trafalgar-class nuclear submarine at Devonport Naval Base. The event saw personnel, who served in the submarines HMS Talent and HMS Triumph, along with former crew assemble to hold Divisions at HMS Drake in Devonport. Captain Dave Burrell, who served as the executive officer of both Talent and Triumph, said: “They are the last of the Cold War warriors, although the Cold War never went away. We continued to play our dangerous game.” Designed initially for anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, the Royal Navy’s seven Trafalgar-class submarines evolved to undertake additional tasks such as covert surveillance and inshore reconnaissance. The names of the seven vessels are Trafalgar, Turbulent, Tireless, Torbay, Trenchant, Talent and Triump. Designed primarily for Cold War operations to protect the UK’s nuclear deterrent forces, these vessels have demonstrated exceptional adaptability. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

23 Jul 25. His Majesty the King has approved three new senior appointments in the Defence Medical Services. His Majesty the King has approved the following three senior appointments in the Defence Medical Services (DMS):

• Brigadier Phil Carter KHP OStJ as the next Surgeon General (SG), in the rank of Major General, from August 2025
• Brigadier Antony Finn as the next Director Medical Personnel and Training in the rank of Major General, from November 2025
• Air Commodore Darren Ellison KHP as the next Director Defence Healthcare in the rank of Air Vice-Marshal, from June 2026

All three have had long and distinguished careers delivering health care to the Armed Forces as part of the Defence Medical Services.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

22 Jul 25. General Guetlein to Lead the Office of Golden Dome for America. On Thursday, July 17, the Senate confirmed Gen. Mike Guetlein to be the first Golden Dome for America Direct Reporting Program Manager (GDA DRPM) reporting directly to the Deputy Secretary of Defense, the Honorable Steve Feinberg. In this role, Gen. Guetlein will be responsible for developing the Golden Dome portfolio of capabilities.

 

18 Jul 25. USAF Gen. Thomas A. Bussiere for reappointment to the grade of general, with assignment as vice chief of staff, U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.  Bussiere is currently serving as commander, USAF Global Strike Command, Barksdale USAF Base, Louisiana.

 

18 Jul 25. USAF Lt. Gen. Stephen L. Davis for appointment to the grade of general, with assignment as commander, USAF Global Strike Command and commander, USAFs Strategic – Air, U.S.  Strategic Command, Barksdale USAF Base, Louisiana.  Davis is currently serving as inspector general of the Department of the USAF, Office of the Secretary of the USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

18 Jul 25. USAF Lt. Gen. Andrew J. Gebara for reappointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as director of staff, U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.  Gebara is currently serving as deputy chief of staff, Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration, Headquarters U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

18 Jul 25. USAF Brig. Gen. Max E. Pearson for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy chief of staff, Intelligence, Headquarters U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.  Pearson is currently serving as deputy director, Operations, National Security Agency, Fort George G. Meade, Maryland.

 

18 Jul 25. Army LG David M. Hodne for appointment to the grade of general, with assignment as commanding general, U.S. Army Transformation and Training Command, Austin, Texas.  Hodne currently serves as deputy commanding general, futures and concepts, U.S. Army Futures Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

 

18 Jul 25. Army MG Mark S. Bennett for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as military deputy for Budget, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Financial Management and Comptroller), Pentagon, Washington, D.C.  Bennett is currently serving as director of Army Budget, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Army (Financial Management and Comptroller), Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

18 Jul 25. Army MG Marcus S. Evans for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as director of the Army Staff, U.S. Army, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.  Evans currently serves as commanding general, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.

 

18 Jul 25. Army MG Joseph F. Jarrard for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy commander, U.S. Northern Command/vice commander, U.S. Element, Northern American Aerospace Defense Command, Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado.  Jarrard currently serves as the special assistant to the chief, National Guard Bureau, Arlington, Virginia.

 

18 Jul 25. Army MG Kevin C. Leahy for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as commanding general, U.S. Army Central Command, Shaw USAF Base, South Carolina.  Leahy is currently serving as commander, Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, Operation INHERENT RESOLVE, Iraq.

 

18 Jul 25. USMC LG Michael J. Borgschulte for reappointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as superintendent, U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland. Borgschulte is currently serving as deputy commandant, Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Quantico, Virginia.

 

18 Jul 25. USMC MG Christian F. Wortman for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force, Camp Pendleton, California.  Wortman is currently serving as the commanding general, 3d Marine Division, Okinawa, Japan.

 

18 Jul 25. USN Vice. Adm. Yvette M. Davids for reappointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as deputy chief of Naval Operations for Operations, Plans, Strategy, and Warfighting Development, N3/N5/N7, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.  Davids is currently serving as superintendent, U.S. Naval Academy, Annapolis, Maryland.

 

18 Jul 25. USN Rear Adm. Jeffrey J. Czerewko for appointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as deputy chief of Naval Operations for Personnel, Manpower, and Training, N1, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations and Chief of Naval Personnel, Arlington, Virginia. Czerewko most recently served as commander, Naval Education and Training Command, Pensacola, Florida.

 

18 Jul 25. USN Rear Adm. John E. Dougherty IV for appointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as commander, Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland.  Dougherty is currently serving as commander, Naval Air Warfare Center, Aircraft Division/ chief engineer, Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland.

 

18 Jul 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) Michael S. Sciretta for appointment to the grade of rear admiral.  Sciretta is currently serving as director, Maritime Operations, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Norfolk, Virginia.

 

18 Jul 25. Space Force LG Shawn N. Bratton for appointment to the grade of general, with assignment as vice chief of space operations, U.S. Space Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.  Bratton is currently serving as deputy chief of Space Operations for Strategy, Plans, Programs, and Requirements, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

18 Jul 25. Marshall and Romaero, a leading European aerospace maintenance and manufacturing specialist, today announced a strategic collaboration providing a broad framework for programmed depot maintenance (PDM) of current and future C-130 Hercules aircraft operated by the Romanian Air Force (RoAF). As Romania seeks to expand its sovereign airlift capability, the nation’s Ministry of National Defence has embarked on an ambitious modernisation programme for RoAF’s fleet of legacy C-130 aircraft, including the replacement of existing airframes. These plans will substantially increase the scope and scale of inservice support work to be undertaken towards the upkeep of the aircraft. The new agreement establishes a comprehensive framework for Marshall and Romaero to deliver all anticipated aspects of sustainment for RoAF’s C-130 fleet. Working together, Marshall and Romaero will develop and present plans for programmed depot maintenance, including supply chain management for equipment and materials. Marshall will also provide engineering support on repairs, airworthiness assessment and technical publications, enhancing Romaero’s in-country work to keep the RoAF aircraft mission-ready and missioncapable.

“Following a thorough selection process, we are pleased to be collaborating with Marshall for the sustainment of the RoAF C-130 fleet,” said Romaero Director General Bogdan Costas. “The Marshall team stands out for its depth of experience, full transparency, breadth of technical knowledge and impressive heritage of working on the C-130 platform.”

The framework of the collaboration has been defined in an initial memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two companies, signed at Marshall’s headquarters in Cambridge, UK. Maintenance work on the first aircraft is anticipated to commence in 2026.

“We are excited to work alongside the Romaero team and contribute to their delivery of high-quality and timely service to RoAF,” said Mark Hewer, Director of Aero Engineering Services for Marshall.

“For Marshall, this collaboration isn’t just a chance to work with a new C-130 operator; it’s about building a long-term relationship around a vital national defence programme undertaken by a key NATO member.”

Romaero will conduct in-country maintenance and engineering work on the aircraft from its hangarage located adjacent to Bucharest Băneasa airport.

 

PERSONNEL

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

23 Jul 25. Fortem Technologies, a pioneer in radar-powered autonomous counter-drone systems and advanced air mobility, today announced the appointment of Shane Shamblin as Senior Vice President of U.S. Sales Operations. With more than 25 years of leadership in defense technology, sales, and business development, Shamblin will oversee Fortem’s domestic go-to-market strategy and unify its federal, defense, critical infrastructure, and commercial sales operations under a cohesive national approach. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

21Jul 25. DTC, a Codan Company, is significantly expanding its operations in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region — a move that underscores the company’s long-term strategic commitment to high-growth, high-impact markets. The appointment of retired U.S. Army Colonel Brady Crosier as Vice President of Business Development for Asia-Pacific signals a bold step forward in delivering advanced communications capabilities across the region’s defense, government, and commercial sectors.Based in Taiwan, Crosier will directly support DTC’s growing presence in the region and serve as a senior liaison to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command (USINDOPACOM), U.S. embassies, and other key government and commercial stakeholders. His appointment comes at a time when APAC is rapidly becoming a center of geopolitical importance and economic dynamism — making it a vital part of DTC’s global growth strategy.

 

21 Jul 25. MDA Space (TSX: MDA), a trusted mission partner to the rapidly expanding global space industry, today announced the appointment of Rabindra (Rob) Singh as Vice President, Strategic Solutions, effective immediately. A distinguished leader in the space industry with more than 30 years of experience defining and delivering complex space solutions and service strategies for customers, Mr. Singh joins MDA Space at a pivotal time as the space market and the company expand globally. (Source: PR Newswire)

LOCATIONS

 

MARITIME

 

07 Jul 25. France commissions third Barracuda-class nuclear submarine. The fourth submarine, De Grasse, was rolled out of the construction hall in late May this year. French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu has commissioned the third Barracuda-class nuclear-powered attack submarine, SSN Tourville, into active service. The Barracuda-class programme will see the delivery of six nuclear-powered attack submarines by 2030. The programme aims to replace the Rubis-type SSNs, which were commissioned in the 1980s.

“The Tourville presents prodigious technological and thus operational advances. If one stands out, it is the ability to be deployed twice as long,” Minister Lecornu said.

Works on Tourville started on 28 June 2011, with the first steel cut at Naval Group’s Cherbourg shipyard. Named after vice admiral Anne Hilarion de Costentin de Tourville, the submarine took its first dive on 17 July, following sea trials that began on 12 July 2024. Tourville underwent technical adjustments in Cherbourg before being officially handed over to the French Navy on 16 November 2024. The fourth submarine, De Grasse, rolled out of the construction hall in late May 2025. The first and second vessels are named Suffren and Duguay-Trouin. The French Navy’s Barracuda-class submarines will be equipped with MBDA’s naval cruise missiles (NCM), granting them deep strike capabilities. Additionally, these vessels will be armed with the F21 heavyweight torpedo, manufactured by Naval Group, and the SM39 anti-ship missile, also provided by MBDA. According to Naval Group, approximately 2,500 individuals are involved in the design and production of the Barracuda-class submarines, with around 800 of these contributors working for subcontractors associated with the company. Additionally, Lecornu presided over the inauguration of the newly constructed Missiessy Dock No 2 (MY02) in Toulon, an infrastructure project designed to house the new Suffren-class SSNs.

“This dock represents an industrial feat and a symbol: that of a living, modernised naval base, capable of supporting the growth of our fleet,” the minister said.

MY02 has been upgraded to accommodate two nuclear attack submarines at the same time, a critical enhancement in anticipation of the fleet’s expansion by 2028. With a budget allocation of €3bn over 15 years, Barracuda Support Infrastructure Program (ASB PI) encompasses upgrades to docks, utility networks, support buildings, and nuclear safety infrastructure at Toulon. The ASB PI project is structured into three phases with the first phase already completed and facilitated the arrival of the first two Suffren-class submarines. The second phase is underway and will continue until 2030; it includes delivering five berths, modernising two maintenance docks (MY01 and MY02), constructing a logistics building, and completely revamping the secret basic nuclear facility (INBS). The final phase is set to manage major technical shutdowns for the Suffrens. (Source: naval-technology.com)

 

04 Jul 25. Fincantieri Delivers the PPA “KRI BRAWIJAYA-320” to the Indonesian Navy. The vessel is the first of two multi-mission combat units destined for Indonesia. The delivery ceremony of the MPCS (Multipurpose Combat Ship/PPA) KRI BRAWIJAYA-320 vessel to the Indonesian Navy was held yesterday at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Muggiano (La Spezia). The ceremony was attended by Biagio Mazzotta, Chairman of Fincantieri, Admiral Muhammad Ali, Chief of the Indonesian Navy, H.E. Prof. DR. Junimart Girsang, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Indonesia to the Republic of Italy, Admiral Enrico Credendino, Chief of the Italian Navy, and Admiral Giacinto Ottaviani, National Armaments Director. Their presence underscored the strong defense collaboration between the two nations. KRI BRAWIJAYA-320, built and delivered by Fincantieri in a very short time to the Indonesian Navy, thanks also to the new construction synergies implemented by the Group, is the first of two MPCS/PPA units and, together with its sister vessel, the KRI PRABU SILIWANGI-321, represents an important milestone in the development of the strategic partnership between Fincantieri and the Indonesian Ministry of Defense. These vessels will represent the largest combat ships in the Indonesian Navy, strengthening stability in the Indo-Pacific region and safeguarding Indonesia’s national interests. The MPCS/PPA is a highly versatile class of ship designed to perform a wide range of missions, including frontline combat operations, maritime patrol, rescue, and civil protection activities.The vessel is also capable of operating high-speed boats  such as RHIB (Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat) through lateral crane or a hauling ramp located at the stern.

• Overall length: 143 meters
• Speed: more than 31 knots
• Crew: 171 personnel
• Equipped with a combined diesel and gas turbine propulsion plant (CODAG) and an electric propulsion system

(Source: ASD Network)

 

04 Jul 25. Rosoboronexport Hands Over Project 11356 Frigate Tamal, built at Yantar USC shipyard in Russia, to Indian Navy. Currently India is already operating 7 Project 11356 frigates. The commissioning ceremony took place on July 1, 2025 in Kaliningrad. The eighth Project 11356 frigate, built in Russia for the Indian Navy, was christened Tamal, which means “Sword” in Sanskrit.

“The successful completion of construction, testing and delivery of the frigate Tamal to India demonstrates Rosoboronexport’s readiness to effectively fulfill any naval contracts, taking into account current global market trends. The eighth Project 11356 frigate is a model of technology cooperation. It incorporates more than 20 Indian-made ship systems, including the BrahMos supersonic missile system, an automated communications system, a surface search and target acquisition radar, and a sonar station,” – said Alexander Mikheev, Director General of Rosoboronexport JSC. – “Today the Company is actively developing partnerships with Indian public and private enterprises to jointly develop and manufacture military products on the partner’s territory. We are discussing 50+ projects for all services of the armed forces and are already working on a number of them”.

Tamal is a frigate that meets all the current requirements of the global naval shipbuilding market. Its radars are capable of timely detecting all types of air attack weapons, including advanced low-flying anti-ship missiles. The ship has a reliable air defence system based on the Shtil-1 vertical-launch SAM system developed and manufactured by Almaz-Antey Air and Space Defence Corporation. The ship’s armament is sufficient to counter current and emerging threats. Its artillery armament, consisting of 100mm and 30mm artillery systems, together with an EW system, can repel UAV attacks and effectively counter unmanned surface vehicles. The ship has a reinforced helipad, enabling it to operate a Ka-31 long-range early warning helicopter. The delivered frigate Tamal has excellent seaworthiness: it is able to travel 4,850 miles without refueling and stay at sea for 30 days without resupply. Currently India is already operating 7 Project 11356 frigates. In December 2024 a commissioning ceremony for frigate Tushil took place in Kaliningrad. In addition, India’s Goa Shipyard Limited launched the ninth and tenth frigates of this project, which are being built by Indian shipbuilders with the assistance of Rosoboronexport. Rosoboronexport aims to strengthen the Russian defence industry’s positions in the Indian arms market through unique technology cooperation proposals that none of its competitors can make today. Issues related to the continuation of ongoing projects in the field of joint development and production of naval equipment, aircraft, armored vehicles, small arms, ammunition are being actively considered, and new ones are also being discussed.  (Source: ASD Network)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

02 Jul 25. New AMD leadership announced. The Aerospace, Maritime and Defence Industries Association of South Africa (AMD) has announced a new Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson following the departure of former SA Air Force Chief Fabian Msimang. Msimang was elected as the Chairperson of AMD earlier this year, but left with effect from 5 June following “a change in personal circumstances”. He was no longer eligible to serve on the AMD board after he stopped representing Swatek Aerospace and Defence and was therefore no longer part of the defence industry. In a letter to all AMD members and stakeholders on 7 July, AMD Executive Director Sandile Ndlovu announced the appointment of Nico Troostheide and Isaac Motale as the new Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson, respectively, of the Board of Directors. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

 

INDUSTRY

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

10 Jul 25. DroneSense and MatrixSpace have partnered to accelerate the safe expansion of beyond visual line of sight (BVLOS) drone operations for Drone as First Responder (DFR) programs. The integration brings MatrixSpace Radar’s real-time object detection and airspace awareness capabilities directly into DroneSense Remote (DSR), the leading operational software platform for public safety drone missions. This enables radar tracking across urban and rural settings enhancing safety, responsiveness and mission success. MatrixSpace Radar delivers affordable, AI-powered situational awareness in all conditions, including low-light and low-visibility environments. With AiEdge software for real-time classification and expandable centralized sensor fusion, agencies can scale DFR operations confidently.

“DroneSense is committed to building an open ecosystem that incorporates the best available drone hardware and detect-and-avoid (DAA) technologies,” said Aydin Ghajar, Chief Operating Officer at DroneSense. “This integration with MatrixSpace represents the first of several partnerships to unlock BVLOS operations for public safety agencies. By bringing real-time radar awareness into our OpsHub interface, we’re enhancing both mission execution and safety.”

This capability has already supported some major milestones:

Palm Springs Police Department (PSPD) expanded its Drone as First Responder (DFR) program, establishing the largest first responder agency coverage area (37 square miles) monitored by radar sensors instead of humans in the United States. Campbell Police Department (CPD) became the first law enforcement agency in California to receive FAA authorization for single-operator BVLOS missions under a Part 91.113(b) waiver using radar instead of human visual observers. The waiver enables safer and more effective drone operations, even during night or adverse weather conditions.

“The partnership between two exceptional technologies—DroneSense and MatrixSpace—is a game-changer,” said Chief Charles L. Werner (Emeritus-RET), Director of DRONERESPONDERS Public Safety Alliance. “It delivers critical situational awareness to real-time crime centers, fusion centers, and command staff through a single mission platform.”

As more public agencies, regional consortiums, and critical infrastructure providers turn to drones for real-time intelligence, the integration of ground-based radar is essential to scaling safe and effective BVLOS operations.

“DroneSense is leading the charge in advancing operational best practices and technology for public safety,” said Lori DeMatteis, Chief Revenue Officer at MatrixSpace. “Together, we’re delivering a turnkey radar and software solution that supports next-generation airspace awareness, including nighttime and low-visibility BVLOS operations.”

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

09 Jul 25. Comtech Telecommunications Corp. (NASDAQ: CMTL) (“Comtech” or the “Company”), a global communications technology leader, today announced three key leadership appointments within its Satellite and Space Communications (“S&S”) segment. These appointments include Steve Black as the new Chief Operating Officer (“COO”), Mark Dale as the new Chief Technology Officer (“CTO”) and Brent Norman as the new Chief Financial Officer (“CFO”); each reporting to Daniel Gizinski, President of Comtech’s S&S segment.

VACANCIES

 

25 Jun 25. Join the Future Combat Air System programme at Dstl. Play a pivotal role in safeguarding the UK’s future and shape the next generation of combat air technology, by joining the FCAS programme. The Future Combat Air System (FCAS) encompasses a series of highly integrated and aligned programmes and military capabilities. This system will have a crewed aircraft at its heart. It will network and collaborate with a range of wider air and broader domain capabilities, including F-35, and use information systems, weapons and uncrewed collaborative combat air platforms to complete the capability.

Be part of a joint international programme

The Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is a trilateral acquisition programme launched with Japan and Italy to develop the core platform (aircraft) which will be at the heart of the UK’s and our partners’ future Combat Air systems. This joint international programme is a jointly funded and delivered international programme to develop and deliver a new fighter aircraft. To put this challenge into context, when the current UK constructed fast jet, the Eurofighter (a fourth generation type) was being designed in the 1980s, the European car of the year was the Ford Escort. Our other current fast jet, the US-Built F-35 Lightning II (a fifth generation type) was designed in the 1990s, when the Fordo Mondeo was car of the year. The F-35 though has been described as a ‘Flying Software Testbed’ with significant PE and approximately 8 m lines of code.

What’s at the core of FCAS and GCAP

Programmable Elements (PE), especially software, are at the heart of FCAS and GCAP. The ability to perform frequent, sometimes rapid, software updates is also a critical part of achieving and sustaining operational effectiveness.

What the MOD PE team do

The Ministry of Defence (MOD) PE team has wide ranging responsibility, covering:

• artificial intelligence (AI) and data
• applications
• operating systems
• virtualisation
• complex electronic hardware

Working with industry and international partner governments, they also strive to create and promote the environment in which quality PE are effectively delivered at pace. Be part of building the sixth generation fast jet GCAP will be a sixth generation fast jet, which will build on fifth generation properties, such as, low observability and systems integration, adding autonomy, but the key will be fast adaptability. And the only way to achieve this is through its PE quality to do so.

If you are interested in a challenging opportunity to use your PE skills to benefit one of the MOD’s highest priority acquisition programs and help get the UK’s next manned and unmanned fast jets flying safely and securely, we want to hear from you. As part of the FCAS team, you’ll contribute to one of the most complex and fast-paced acquisition defence programmes to date. With the groundbreaking GCAP collaboration between the UK, Japan, and Italy, this initiative is set to deliver the state-of-the-art fighter jet, Tempest, by 2035. This is an unparalleled opportunity to be part of a programme that is revolutionizing the UK’s combat air industry, supporting national security and economic growth. You’ll work at the cutting edge of technology, surrounded by a passionate team committed to excellence.

Apply to work for the (FCAS) programme

We will keep this page updated and add links when roles are available to apply for.

Sensing, Communications and Non-Kinetic Effects

1 x Positioning & Timing Scientists & Engineers, L6

Software

1 x Deputy Chief Technologist, L7

1 x Complex Electronic Hardware Lead, L7

1 x Software Delivery Pipelines Lead, L6

1 x Complex Electronic Hardware (CEH) Specialist L6

2 x Software Engineers, L5

Mission Systems (inc. Cockpit)

1 x Aircrews Systems Engineer, L6

Benefits of working at Dstl

As well as a rewarding career in defence science and technology, the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) offers a wide range of benefits and training opportunities in a supportive, encouraging and flexible environment. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

 

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

23 Jun 25. Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE: NOC) opened a new 100,000 square foot integration facility to scale the delivery of ground system capabilities that deliver mission-critical data to American and allied warfighters. Fixed and mobile ground system technology solutions enable warfighter missions at the tactical edge, where forces operate in challenging environments, often facing limited connectivity while still relying on the right information at the right time to make the right decisions rapidly, with resiliency in any mission. These capabilities support space surveillance, missile warning and defense, satellite operations and data processing in operational environments, anywhere at any time.

“Northrop Grumman’s Highfield Integration Facility adds to our existing one m square feet of Colorado infrastructure and further enables our production of innovative ground systems that provide the Department of Defense and intelligence communities with any data, at any place, at any time, for any mission,” said Murali Krishnan, vice president, payload and ground systems, Northrop Grumman. “This is another proof point in how the company continues to scale facilities across the U.S. to drive innovation at unprecedented speeds.”

 

MARITIME

 

 

25 Jun 25. A cutting-edge new ship build hall transforming shipbuilding on the Clyde has officially opened at BAE Systems’ shipyard in Glasgow. Named in honour of one of the many women who stepped into vital industrial roles during the Second World War, the opening ceremony of the Janet Harvey Hall in Govan paid tribute to the past and outlined the exciting future the multi-million-pound investment heralds for the city. At the end of the ceremony, Janet’s nieces joined the Lord Provost to cut the ribbon across the towering hall door – a symbolic gesture officially opening the facility and marking a new era for shipbuilding in Scotland. The hall has capacity for two Type 26 frigates to be constructed side-by-side, the hall measures 170m long and 80m wide, with two 100-tonne cranes and a further two 20-tonne cranes inside. Currently, HMS Belfast and HMS Birmingham are being built in the hall, HMS Glasgow and HMS Cardiff are being outfitted at BAE Systems’ Scotstoun site further up the River Clyde and steel has been cut on HMS Sheffield.

Simon Lister, Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Naval Ships business, said: “The Janet Harvey Hall marks a major step forward for shipbuilding in Glasgow and will help enable efficient and safe shipbuilding for decades to come. It’s a symbol of pride not just for our skilled workforce who bring these ships to life, but for the entire city.”

Designed to accommodate up to 500 workers per shift, this new facility will boost BAE Systems’ shipbuilding capacity, enabling warships to be built in Glasgow fully undercover for the first time, ensuring that work is unaffected by adverse weather. The hall, which will help improve schedule performance and reduce the time between ship deliveries, forms a central part of the £300m modernisation and digitalisation of BAE Systems’ facilities in Glasgow, playing a vital role in the delivery of eight Type 26 frigates for the Royal Navy.

Stephen Charlick, MOD DE&S Type 26 Resident Project Officer, said: “Protecting the United Kingdom and its interests from evolving global threats requires state-of-the-art vessels like the Type 26 frigate and the investment by our industry partner, BAE Systems, underscores the commitment to equipping our armed forces.

“The Janet Harvey Hall brings an improved approach to warship assembly and outfit, driving quality throughout the build, and this approach supports regular delivery of vessels in line with the Royal Navy need.”

• Each Type 26 will be equipped with a range of capabilities including the Sea Ceptor missile defence system, a five-inch medium calibre gun, flexible mission bay, Artisan 997 Medium Range Radar, powerful bow and towed array sonars and a vertical launch silo capable of hosting a variety of weapons.
• The Commonwealths of Australia and Canada have selected the Type 26 reference design, which together with the UK, provides the basis for an anticipated 29-ship programme across the three nations. Sharing build and transition into service lessons across all three programmes will benefit all parties in this multinational effort.
• The Type 26 is also one of the platforms under consideration for Norway’s new frigate programme, with BAE Systems shortlisted to provide the design for the Royal Norwegian Navy’s replacement for its Fridtjof Nansen-class frigates.

 

20 Jun 25. MHI delivers eighth Mogami-class destroyer to Japan. The 3,900t destroyer was christened and launched in November 2023 at the shipbuilder’s Tamano yard. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Maritime Systems has delivered the 3,900 tonne Mogami-class destroyer, the JS Yubetsu, to the Japanese Ministry of Defence. The handover was completed at the shipbuilder’s Tamano yard in Okayama. The event marked the delivery of the second vessel of its class from this location, with “Kumano” being the prior delivery. The JS Yubetsu is the eighth Mogami-class vessel to join the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force fleet. The previously delivered ships under the class are JS Mogami, Kumano, Noshiro, Mikuma, Yahagi, Agano, and Niyodo. The JS Yubetsu destroyer was contracted by the Ministry of Defense in fiscal year 2021. The ground-breaking was held on 30 August 2022. The ship was christened and launched in November 2023. It is named after Yubetsu River in Hokkaido. In 2023, the company said that the ship was slated for handover in fiscal year 2024. At that time, the company was working on a comprehensive outfitting that encompassed hull work as well as installation and testing of engines, electrical systems, and armaments. Measuring 133 metres (m) in length, 16.3m in width, and 9m depth, the destroyer can reach a maximum speed of approximately 30 knots. It is powered by one gas turbine and two diesel engines and is equipped with advanced weapon systems, including a 5in 62 calibre gun, one SeaRAM, two SSM devices, an anti-submarine system, a mine countermeasure system, and a vertical launcher. In June 2022, MHI launched the fifth Mogami-class multi-role frigate, named Yahagi. Furthermore, the fourth frigate ‘Mikuma’ was launched in December 2021. The name ‘Mikuma’ is inspired by the Mikuma River in Oita Prefecture, Kyushu, Japan. In November 2024, the Australian Government downselected Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries as finalists for its future general purpose frigates (GPF). Thyssenkrupp proposed the Meko A-200 design, while Mitsubishi offered the Mogami future frigate multirole (FFM) platform.

 

AIR

 

24 Jun 25. Indian Air Force to receive six Tejas aircraft by March 2026. Tejas is single-engine fighter jets, suitable for air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and various strike missions. HAL is responsible for the production of these single-engine fighter jets, which are suitable for air defence, maritime reconnaissance, and various strike missions. In a conversation with PTI Videos, Sunil revealed that the delay in deliveries is due to GE Aerospace not meeting their engine supply deadline. “Unfortunately, in the case of LCA Mark 1A, we have built the aircraft. As of today, we have six aircraft lined up. But the engine deliveries have not happened from GE Aerospace. They were to deliver the engines in 2023. Till date, we have got only one engine,” he said. Air Chief Marshal A P Singh has expressed his concerns regarding the delay in the F404 engines, which has affected the production timeline for HAL’s Tejas Mk-1A jets. The production issues at GE Aerospace started during the Covid pandemic and were exacerbated by the departure of key engineers, leading to supply chain challenges.

Sunil added: “Every company goes through its fair share of criticisms. It does happen. I can assure you that as of today, six aircraft are ready. There is no let-up from our side. We are building those aircraft and getting them ready and we will be in a position to deliver (by this fiscal).”

HAL will move forward with the jet deliveries as GE Aerospace is anticipated to deliver 12 engines within the current financial year. The Indian aircraft manufacturer aims to manufacture 16 Tejas Mk-1A jets in the next year. In February 2021, HAL signed contract worth Rs 480bn ($5.5bn) with the Indian Defence Ministry for 83 Tejas Mk-1A jets. Additionally, plans are underway to procure another 97 aircraft for roughly Rs670bn. Domestically produced Tejas jets will replace IAF’s MiG-21 fighters. In December 2024, the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) and HAL formalised an agreement for the acquisition of 12 Su-30MKI aircraft with related systems. (Source: airforce-technology.com)

 

23 Jun 25. Somalia receives T-129 attack helicopters from Turkey. Somalia has taken delivery of three T-129 attack helicopters from Turkey as part of growing Turkish support for the East African country’s military.  Three T-129 Atak helicopters arrived in Somalia in the first week of June, along with two unnamed utility helicopters for the Somali navy as part of a defence agreement signed between the two nations in February 2024, which allowed Turkey to establish a naval presence in Mogadishu. Six Turkish A400M Atlas and a single Qatari C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft were observed flying into Mogadishu in the first week of June in what are believed to be the delivery flights. Turkey has apparently been training Somali pilots to operate the T-129s for the last year. Soon after arriving in Somalia, the T-129s were apparently used to strike al Shabaab targets, giving the Somali military a precision strike capability. The aircraft have been seen flying over Mogadishu and other areas of the country.

“The delivery of the Atak helicopters to Somalia is an indication that Ankara is not only aiming to transfer weapons but also to build up an integrated war capacity for Somalia,” a source told Türkiye Today.

The T-129 Atak is based on the Agusta A129 Mangusta but features Turkish-developed avionics, mission software, and weapons systems. The T129 is powered by two LHTEC CTS800-4A engines and equipped with a 20 mm three-barrel rotary cannon. It can carry missiles such as the Roketsan UMTAS anti-tank missile and CIRIT 70 mm laser-guided missiles. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan told Somali President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud that Turkey’s support to Somalia in counter-terrorism efforts would continue and be further expanded, according to a statement released by the Turkish presidency. Al Shabaab has stepped up its activities in recent months, with the stated aim of toppling the Somali government. Turkey has some 500 troops in Somalia as part of efforts to support the Somali military. Several Turkish Bayraktar TB2 and Akinci unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are used in support of Turkish and Somali forces. At least two Akinci UAVs were delivered in March while TB2s have been in service with the Somali National Army since 2022 and been used against al Shabaab. Turkey continues to strengthen its role in Somalia, recently signing an energy exploration agreement with the country. It has trained thousands of Somali troops and aims to train a third of the country’s military forces. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

27 Jun 25. His Majesty The King has approved the appointment of Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton KCB ADC FREng to take over from Admiral Sir Tony Radakin KCB ADC as the next Chief of the Defence Staff, with effect from September 2025.

 

27 Jun 25. Ms Helen Fazey has been appointed the United Kingdom Ambassador to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) in Jakarta, in succession to Ms Sarah Tiffin.

 

20 Jun 25. Ms Alicia Herbert OBE has been appointed British High Commissioner to Jamaica in succession to Ms Judith Slater. Ms Herbert will take up her appointment during September 2025.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

26 Jun 25. Army LG Thomas M. Carden Jr. for appointment to the grade of general, with assignment as vice chief of the National Guard Bureau, Arlington, Virginia. Carden currently serves as deputy commander, U.S. Northern Command, Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado.

 

26 Jun 25. Army MG Bobby L. Christine for appointment as judge advocate general, U.S. Army, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Christine currently serves as general counsel, National Guard Bureau, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

24 Jun 25. David J. Bligh for appointment as judge advocate general of the Navy. Bligh is currently serving as the staff judge advocate to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, Headquarters, Marine Corps, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

20 Jun 25. USMC Gen. Christopher J. Mahoney for reappointment to the grade of general, with assignment as vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Mahoney is currently serving as assistant commandant of the Marine Corps, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

20 Jun 25. USMC LG Gregory L. Masiello for reappointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as director, Joint Strike Fighter Program, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Masiello is currently serving as director, Defense Contract Management Agency, Fort Lee, Virginia.

 

20 Jun 25. USMC LG Benjamin T. Watson for reappointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy commandant, Training and Education and commanding general, Training and Education Command, Quantico, Virginia. Watson is currently serving as commanding general, Training and Education Command, Quantico, Virginia.

 

20 Jun 25. USMC MG Jay M. Bargeron for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy commandant for Plans, Policies, and Operations, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Bargeron is currently serving as director, J-5, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, Hawaii.

 

20 Jun 25. USMC MG William J. Bowers for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Quantico, Virginia.  Bowers is currently serving as commanding general, USMCRecruiting Command, Quantico, Virginia.

 

20 Jun 25. USMC MG Stephen E. Liszewski for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as director, Joint Force Development, J-7, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Liszewski is currently serving as vice director, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

20 Jun 25. USMC MG David L. Odom for appointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as director for operations, J-3, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Odom is currently serving as director, Joint Capabilities Integration Directorate, Headquarters, U.S. Marine Corps, Quantico, Virginia.

 

INDUSTRY

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

26 Jun 25. Steen Hommel, former State Secretary and COO at the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs, will join Terma as Executive Vice President for Public Affairs, Communication and Partnerships on 1 August 2025, bringing decades of diplomatic and strategic experience to strengthen the company’s external engagement amid growing geopolitical complexity. The appointment reflects Terma’s ambition to strengthen its ability to navigate a more complex geopolitical and commercial environment. The role covers responsibility for public affairs, external communication, and strategic partnerships.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

20 Jun 25. Allient Inc. (Nasdaq: ALNT) (“Allient” or the “Company”), a global designer and manufacturer of speciality Motion, Controls and Power products and solutions for targeted industries and applications, is pleased to announce the appointment of Greg Kraus as Director of Strategic Operations for its Allient Defense Solutions (ADS) business unit.

 

26 Jun 25. Boeing has hired a former Northrop Grumman  executive, Steve Sullivan, to lead its Air Force One program, according to two people briefed on the matter. Sullivan, who previously worked on key Northrop programs including the B-21 bomber, replaces Gregg Coffey, who is moving to another role at the U.S. planemaker. (Source: Reuters)

 

REST OF THE WORLD APPOINTMENTS

 

26 Jun 25. Calian® Group Ltd. (TSX: CGY), a mission-solutions company focused on defence, space, healthcare and strategic growth critical infrastructure sectors, today announced that Chris Pogue will join the company as President, Defence & Space, effective July 7, 2025. In this newly created role, Pogue will lead a high-performance organization that brings together Calian’s Advanced Technologies and Learning business units—leveraging the synergies of its communications and manufacturing solutions alongside its immersive training and simulation expertise to accelerate mission success for defence and space customers alike.

 

23 Jun 25. Serobe asks to leave as Denel board chair. Now ex-Denel chair Gloria Serobe and Minister Angie Motshekga at a March 2025 “strategic migration” meeting ahead of Denel officially moving to Motshekga’s Cabinet portfolio. Denel chair Gloria Serobe has asked to be released from her duties, bringing to an end the current term of office of the defence and technology conglomerate’s board of directors, according to trade union Solidarity. (Source: https://www.defenceweb.co.za/)

VACANCIES

 

16 Jun 25. Royal Military Academy of Belgium seeks C-UAS researcher for COURAGEOUS2 project. The Royal Military Academy, Belgium (RMA) is looking for a Counter-Drone Researcher to join its Robotics & Autonomous Systems unit and play a key role in the EU-funded COURAGEOUS² project. COURAGEOUS² is a policy-driven initiative aimed at supporting the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Migration and Home Affairs (DG-HOME) in implementing an EU-wide counter-drone strategy.  The successful applicant will work with international stakeholders including INTERPOL and numerous government ministries, national police departments and universities. They will lead large-scale test campaigns at critical infrastructure sites in Belgium, Greece, and Spain. The Researcher will also contribute to EU-wide standardisation and policy shaping. The role is based in Brussels with travel across Europe. RMA is looking for candidates with a Master’s degree who are capable of operating in interdisciplinary environments and comfortable working at the interface between technical validation, regulatory frameworks and large-scale system evaluation campaigns. Applications are invited by July 6. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

16 Jun 25. High Tech Smart Infrastructure Start-Up | Mechanical Engineer | Cardiff | £40,000 + Share Options + Benefits. About the Company: Our partner is a fast-scaling startup developing next-generation, air-deployable water storage systems. Designed for sectors like emergency response and agriculture, their product is already gaining traction in global markets. With production scaling up, they’re hiring engineers to help build and refine core technology. About the Role: As a Mechanical Engineer, you’ll be responsible for taking projects from concept to reality. This means spotting problems, developing briefs, running calculations, creating CAD models, and sourcing manufacturers. The role requires someone who’s hands-on, creative, and can own complex mechanical challenges.

Responsibilities:

• Design and iterate core mechanical systems, equipment, and processes.
• Deliver full CAD models and technical documentation.
• Oversee prototype builds and liaise with suppliers and fabricators.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams on integration and manufacturing.
• Contribute to continuous improvement and cost-effective engineering.

Requirements:

• Degree in Mechanical or Mechatronics Engineering.
• 2+ years’ relevant experience in mechanical design and/or manufacturing.
• Strong CAD skills (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, etc.) and ability to present a portfolio.
• Knowledge of actuator systems, materials, and dynamic design.
• Comfortable working hands-on with prototypes and manufacturing tools.
• Cardiff-based or willing to relocate (this is an on-site role)..

Benefits:

• £40,000 salary + share options.
• Opportunity to lead mechanical development in a fast-paced startup.
• Real-world impact and ownership of end-to-end engineering work.
• Career growth and learning in a supportive technical environment.

Contact: Ollie Gordon Brown <>

 

16 Jun 25. Leading Innovative Smart Materials Start-Up | Senior Civil Engineer | Cambridge | £45-60K

About the Company:

Our partner, a leading Cambridge spin-out, is dedicated to revolutionizing the construction industry through the development and commercialization of innovative self-healing concrete technology. Their groundbreaking solutions aim to automatically repair concrete cracks, minimizing structural damage and reducing the need for costly repairs and replacements. By extending the lifespan of concrete structures and optimizing construction practices, their technology contributes to a sustainable future by reducing carbon emissions. They are now expanding their team and looking for a talented Senior Civil Engineer to join their team in Cambridge.

About the Role:

As a Senior Civil Engineer, you will have the chance to work with cutting-edge technology and to construct a huge range of projects from conception to completion. You will work closely with the development team and strategize testing approaches, explore technology and identify potential applications.

Key Responsibilities:

• Manage, design, develop, create and maintain small-scale through to large-scale construction projects in a safe, timely and sustainable manner.
• Conduct on site investigations and analyze data (maps, reports, tests, drawings and other). – Carry out technical and feasibility studies and draw up blueprints that satisfy technical specifications.
• Assess potential risks, materials and costs.
• Provide advice and resolve any emerging problems/deficiencies.
• Oversee and mentor staff and liaise with a variety of stakeholders.
• Handle over the resulting structures and services for use.
• Monitor progress and compile reports in project status.
• Manage budget and purchase equipment/materials.
• Comply with guidelines and regulations including permits, safety etc and deliver technical files and other technical documentation as required.

Requirements

• Prior experience in a Civil Engineering role.
• Holds a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Civil Engineering, demonstrating a solid understanding of fundamental civil engineering principles.
• Shows a strong interest in working in a dynamic start-up environment and embodies an entrepreneurial spirit.
• Strong communication skills and willingness to work in a team setting.
• Problem solving and critical thinking skills.

Contact: Ollie Gordon Brown <>

 

16 Jun 25. Precision Engineering & Advanced Optics Company | Commercial & Technical Manager | East Sussex | £30-35K + bonus

About the Company:

Our partner is a UK-based manufacturer at the forefront of precision engineering, specialising in ultra-high vacuum optics, thin film coatings, and scientific components for demanding applications. Supplying to leading research institutes, universities, and OEMs across the globe, they combine technical excellence with innovative design to deliver custom-engineered solutions from their advanced, cleanroom-equipped facility.

About the Role:

We are seeking a commercially astute and technically capable Commercial & Technical Manager to lead customer project delivery from initial enquiry through to design and support. This cross functional role will suit an experienced engineer with strong leadership skills and a background in design, analysis, and client engagement. You will manage technical support engineers, develop non-standard quotations, drive design innovation, and ensure seamless communication between engineering, quality, and sales functions.

Responsibilities:

• Oversee standard and bespoke customer enquiries, ensuring accurate and timely responses.
• Lead mechanical design projects, including Finite Element Analysis (FEA), to validate performance and reliability.
• Create and review detailed technical drawings to meet client and production specifications.
• Prepare custom quotations involving non-standard components, working closely with suppliers and internal teams.
• Provide expert technical support to clients and internal stakeholders across the full project lifecycle.
• Line-manage Technical Support Engineers—delegating tasks, mentoring, and driving team development.
• Collaborate with the Quality Department to investigate issues, lead root cause analysis, and implement corrective actions.
• Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives in design, production processes, and technical standards.
• Coordinate cross-departmental communication to align project timelines and business goals.

Requirements:

• Degree-qualified in Mechanical Engineering, Product Design, Physics, or a related technical discipline.
• Proven experience in a senior engineering, applications, or technical management role within a manufacturing or scientific environment.
• Proficiency with CAD (e.g. SolidWorks) and FEA tools.
• Strong commercial awareness and experience producing technical quotations.
• Team leadership experience with the ability to develop and manage high-performing technical staff.
• Excellent problem-solving, documentation, and communication skills.
• Familiarity with vacuum systems, optical components, or cleanroom practices is a plus.

Compensation and Benefits:

• Salary commensurate with experience + bonus.
• Comprehensive training and development support.
• Work on cutting-edge engineering challenges and bespoke customer projects.
• Collaborative and supportive team environment in a high-spec facility

Contact: Ollie Gordon Brown <>

 

LOCATIONS

 

LAND

 

12 Jun 25. Racal Acoustics relocation to a new facility effective 1 September 2025. Our Harrow office will close on 19 September 2025 at 1:30 PM, and we will open our Croxley office on 22 September 2025 at 8:00 AM. This move reinforces our commitment to innovation and supply chain collaboration as we transition to a light manufacturing centre.

 

16 Jun 25. Patria celebrates opening of F-35 production facility in Jämsä, Finland. Patria hosted the opening ceremony of the F-35 production building on Friday 13 June, 2025 at Patria’s Halli facility in Jämsä, Finland. The production line will provide large-scale assembly of F-35 forward fuselages as part of the global F-35 supply chain. The new production facility, which will be completed during the autumn of 2025, will be part of the industrial cooperation of Finland’s F-35 fighter programme. The F-35’s industrial participation solution in Finland creates strong capabilities and competences in terms of security of supply and is also significant for the Finnish national economy.

“The construction of the F-35 forward fuselage production line in Finland as part of the industrial cooperation package is a sign of trust in Finnish expertise. With this production line, Patria becomes a significant part of the global F-35 supply chain. Industrial cooperation is essential for developing the technological foundation, security of supply, and capabilities. For Finland’s security and defence, this cooperation is important far into the future,” comments Finland’s Minister of Defence Antti Häkkänen.

“Collaboration on the Halli production facility project has been continuous and we are on schedule. We at Patria are proud to be developing new F-35 capabilities together with Ministry of Defence, Finnish Defence Forces and Lockheed Martin, commemorated by today’s opening ceremony,” says Petri Hepola, Chief Program Officer, F-35 at Patria.

“The Lockheed Martin team was honoured to participate in the facility’s opening ceremony, bringing Patria into the global supply chain and marking a significant milestone for the Finnish F-35 programme,” says Nick Drazic, Vice President, Aeronautics Operations, Lockheed Martin. “Combining the best skills and expertise from the United States and its global partners boosts capacity, creates and sustains jobs and delivers positive economic impact for all countries involved. We are looking forward to continuing our close partnership with Patria and Finnish industry to support the strong global supply chain enabling allied deterrence around the world.”

The employment impact for Patria will be up to 150 people after the ramp-up period. Production is planned to start during spring of 2026.

 

MARITIME

 

18 Jun 25. Singapore breaks cover on swimmer delivery vehicle. The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) has operationalised a swimmer delivery vehicle that can be used to covertly insert troops from its special forces. Known as the combatant craft underwater (CCU), existence of the equipment was announced via a social media video that was released on the RSN’s official social media channels on 10 June. Details provided in the video indicate that the CCU has been operationalised by the special boat group of the RSN’s special forces formation known as the Naval Diving Unit (NDU). In the video, a masked CCU operator from the unit described the vehicle as one that is being used to counter “any potential terrorist threats”. No details on the CCU were provided in the video but visuals indicate a craft with an overall length of about 10.5 m and an overall beam of about 2.3m. These dimensions, and the vehicle’s overall form factor including the position of its control surfaces and thrusters, correspond with that of the Carrier Seal product from UK-based underwater capability provider JFD. This swimmer delivery vehicle can accommodate a crew complement of eight including six fully equipped divers and two pilots and can be operated in surface, semi-submerged, and submerged modes. (Source: Janes)

 

15 Jun 25. HMS Venturer, the first of five Type 31 frigates we’re delivering for the Royal Navy, has completed her first entry into the water. Sir Nick Hine, Chief Executive of Babcock’s Marine Sector, said: “In a complex and uncertain world, our ability to design, build and support advanced warships in the UK is more important than ever. HMS Venturer’s first entry into the water is a clear demonstration of UK sovereign capability in action and the depth, resilience and expertise within Babcock’s Marine business. This latest milestone exhibits the excellent progress being made across our multi-build programme, which will see us deliver five complex warships for the Royal Navy within a decade. This is engineering at its best, delivered, together with our partners, with pride, purpose and precision. HMS Venturer is just the beginning.”

 

AIR

 

18 Jun 25. Netherlands Advances C-390 Capabilities With Innovative Aeromedical System Including Options for Allied Nations.

• Comprehensive roll on/roll off modular and flexible system will instantly transform any C-390 into a mobile hospital
• New capability is a testament to the outstanding evolution potential of this next-generation multi-mission aircraft

Embraer (NYSE: ERJ/ B3:EMBR3), a global leader in the aerospace industry, and the State of the Netherlands have signed a landmark contract today to deliver a cutting-edge Aeromedical Evacuation System for the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s C-390 Millennium fleet. The contract, which comprises one firm order plus seven purchase orders, was signed today by Vice Admiral Jan Willem Hartman (MSc), Commander of the Materiel and IT Command, and Bosco da Costa Junior, President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security, during a ceremony at the Paris Air Show. At the heart of the aeromedical system is a roll-on/roll-off medical module – a self-contained, air-transportable unit that functions as a mini hospital. It supports the treatment and transport of patients, including those requiring full life support. Its design also allows for the transport of infected patients, protecting the medical staff and the crew. All components of the aeromedical system are fully compatible with the C-390’s Cargo Handling System (CHS) and can be rapidly installed through the aircraft’s rear ramp, ensuring seamless integration and deployment. This innovative system will significantly enhance the Netherlands’ ability to conduct humanitarian, disaster relief, and military medical operations.

“This system will expand the operational capabilities of our C-390 Millennium fleet, transforming them into a modular airborne medical facility capable of delivering life-saving care both in the air and on the ground. With these new capabilities, we will be able to provide vital assistance when it is needed most,” said Vice Admiral Jan Willem Hartman, Commander of the Materiel and IT Command, Royal Netherlands Air Force.

“The integration of this aeromedical system represents a major step forward in the evolution of the C-390 Millennium,” said Bosco Da Costa Junior, President & CEO of Embraer Defense & Security. “We are proud to support the Netherlands in strengthening their aeromedical response capabilities with this innovative and mission-ready solution. This modular medical system, which will enable the saving of many lives throughout the aircraft’s operational life, is a powerful example of the C-390’s remarkable evolution potential.”

Since entering operation with the Brazilian Air Force in 2019, the Portuguese Air Force in 2023 and, most recently with the Hungarian Air Force in 2024, the C-390 Millennium has proven its capability, reliability, and performance. The current fleet in operation has demonstrated a mission capability rate of 93% and mission completion rates above 99%. The C-390 can carry more payload (26 tons) compared to other medium-sized military transport aircraft and flies faster (470 knots) and farther, being capable of performing a wide range of missions, such as transporting and dropping cargo and troops, medical evacuation, search and rescue, firefighting and humanitarian missions, operating on temporary or unpaved runways, such as packed earth, soil and gravel. The aircraft configured with air-to-air refueling equipment, with the designation KC-390, has already proven its aerial refueling capacity both as a tanker and as a receiver, in this case by receiving fuel from another KC-390 using pods installed under the wings. (Source: ASD Network)

 

MILITARY AND GOVERNMENT

 

17 Jun 25. Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman, Sean Parnell on the Unified Command Plan. The President recently ordered a change to the Unified Command Plan. This change shifts Greenland from the U.S. European Command area of responsibility to the U.S. Northern Command area of responsibility. Consistent with the President’s intent and the Interim National Defense Strategic Guidance, this change will strengthen the Joint Force’s ability to defend the U.S. homeland, contributing to a more robust defense of the western hemisphere and deepening relationships with Arctic allies and partners. As required by Congress, the Department of Defense reviews the UCP every two years and as needed to ensure that each combatant command is properly structured and has the right resources to carry out its assigned missions and protect U.S. interests around the world. (Source: U.S. DoD)

 

PERSONNEL

 

19 Jun 25. 1,500 jobs created at UK nuclear weapons headquarters as sector boasts above average wages

Thousands of high-skilled jobs and hundreds of apprenticeships have been created to help keep the United Kingdom protected around the clock, with newly published figures highlighting the economic benefits of the defence nuclear industry.

• New figures reveal that 1,500 skilled roles have been created in the last year at the UK’s nuclear weapons technology centre AWE.
• Government study shows that people working in defence nuclear industry receive 20% above average UK salary.
• Defence Secretary visits top secret site as £15 bn investment in sovereign UK nuclear warhead supports the Plan for Change with nearly 10,000 jobs across the UK.

It comes as the government’s delivers a landmark £15 bn investment in this parliament into the renewal of the UK’s sovereign nuclear warhead – confirmed through the recent Strategic Defence Review – to keep the British people safe while supporting almost 10,000 UK jobs.  The figures from government analysis published today also show that average salaries in the defence nuclear industry reach £45,500 – 20% higher than the UK average.   Over the last year, 1,500 new skilled staff, and double the number of apprentices and graduates, have joined AWE in Aldermaston, Berkshire – the UK’s nuclear weapons technology centre – all vital to the success of the nuclear deterrent by playing a critical role in the development and maintenance of the nuclear warhead stockpile.   It comes as John Healey was the first Defence Secretary to visit AWE since 2018, and he hailed the economic growth impact for the local area, as AWE celebrates its 75th anniversary.   The AWE workforce of 9,500 staff, including 3,000 engineers and 1,500 scientists, demonstrates the defence nuclear sector as an engine for economic growth, backing the government’s Plan for Change. This milestone year reflects AWE’s crucial contribution to the UK’s independent nuclear deterrent – keeping a nuclear-armed submarine at sea continuously – ensuring the security of the nation and our NATO allies around the clock. (Source: https://www.gov.uk/)

 

18 Jun 25. Statement by Chief Pentagon Spokesman, Sean Parnell, on the Memorandum for the Establishment of the Military Service Recruitment Task Force. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth has directed the establishment of a Military Service Recruitment Task Force to ensure that the Department of Defense (DoD) continues to attract the brave men and women needed to address existing and emerging force requirements. Since November 2024, the U.S. military has seen the highest recruiting percentage of mission achieved in the last 30 years. The Department seeks to capitalize on the gains made in recruiting since the election of President Trump. At the same time, changing environmental factors demand a targeted and strategic approach to strengthen recruitment efforts across the Department.  The Recruitment Task Force, jointly chaired by the Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness and the Assistant to the Secretary of Defense for Public Affairs, will work swiftly to position the Services to overcome recruiting obstacles, remain competitive, and build on recent recruiting momentum. This group, comprised of subject matter experts from across DoD and the Military Services, will develop an integrated recruiting strategy that aligns policy, communication, and outreach initiatives; provide innovative, actionable, and timely recommendations to the Secretary; and leverage data-driven insights to optimize recruiting efforts, remove related barriers, and secure military talent. The Recruitment Task Force will provide the Secretary with an initial report and an assessment of the current recruiting environment within the next 30 days. It will then develop a list of policy recommendations and legislative proposals within 60 days, and a comprehensive communication and engagement plan within 90 days. The Department remains focused on rebuilding the military to support our evolving and critical national defense mission. Strengthening recruiting efforts to deliver energized, engaged, and patriotic new warfighters is a fitting tribute to the historic 250th anniversaries of the U.S. Army, U.S. Navy, and U.S. Marine Corps in 2025. (Source: U.S. DoD)

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

19 Jun 25. Mr Justin McKenzie Smith has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to Hungary in succession to Mr Paul Fox, who will be retiring from the Diplomatic Service. Mr McKenzie Smith will take up his appointment during October 2025.

 

17 Jun 25. Mr Javed Patel has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Croatia in succession to Mr Simon Thomas OBE. Mr Patel will take up his appointment during August 2025.

 

17 Jun 25. The Civil Nuclear Constabulary (CNC) welcomes new leadership to our Professional Standards Department (PSD) as two new officers join, bringing a wealth of experience. Superintendent Alastair Stenner served for over 30 years with Gloucestershire Constabulary. During his career he has worked both in uniform and as a detective, on Counter Terrorism policing and most recently as the Head of Professional Standards, Vetting, Anti-Corruption and Public Feedback. Reflecting on his approach to building standards, Alastair said: “How people treat one another is key to me. It is the foundation to how we build the right environment and culture.  Alongside this, the organisation has to provide the right leadership and support so that all can flourish. Chief Inspector Aidan Donohoe first served in the Royal Air Force before beginning his policing career at the City of London Police, then Thames Valley Police (TVP) where the majority of his 31-year career was spent.

 

16 Jun 25. Mrs Carine Robarts has been appointed His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Republic of Senegal and His Majesty’s non-resident Ambassador to the Republic of Guinea-Bissau, in succession to Ms Juliette John, who will be transferring to another Diplomatic Service appointment.

 

16 Jun 25.  Blaise Metreweli CMG MI6 appointment. The first ever female Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) has been announced by the Prime Minister today. The first ever female Chief of the Secret Intelligence Service (MI6) has been announced by the Prime Minister today. Blaise Metreweli CMG will be the 18th Chief in the organisation’s history and the first woman to hold the role, at a time when the United Kingdom faces increased threats from our adversaries.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

18 Jun 25. USSF Gen. Michael A. Guetlein for appointment to the grade of general, with assignment as direct reporting program manager for Golden Dome for America, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Guetlein is currently serving as vice chief of Space Operations, U.S. Space Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

18 Jun 25. USAF LG Adrian L. Spain for appointment to the grade of general, with assignment as commander, Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. Spain is currently serving as deputy chief of staff, Operations, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

18 Jun 25. USAF LG Case A. Cunningham for reappointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as deputy chief of staff, Operations, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Cunningham is currently serving as commander, Alaskan Command, U.S. Northern Command; commander, Eleventh Air Force, Pacific Air Forces; and commander, Alaskan North American Aerospace Defense Region, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.

 

18 Jun 25. USAF LG John J. DeGoes for reappointment to the grade of lieutenant general, with assignment as surgeon general of the Air Force and commander, Air Force Medical Command, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. DeGoes is currently serving as surgeon general of the Air Force, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

18 Jun 25. Adm. Daryl L. Caudle for reappointment to the grade of admiral, with assignment as Chief of Naval Operations, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Caudle is currently serving as commander, U.S. Fleet Forces Command, Norfolk, Virginia.

 

18 Jun 25. Rear Adm. Michael P. Donnelly for appointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as commander, Seventh Fleet, Yokosuka, Japan. Donnelly is currently serving as director, Air Warfare Division, N98, Office of the Chief of Naval Operations, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

18 Jun 25. Rear Adm. Thomas M. Henderschedt for appointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as director of Intelligence, J-2, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Henderschedt is currently assigned as director of Integration, Associate Director of Military Affairs, Central Intelligence Agency, Washington USN Yard, Washington, D.C.

 

18 Jun 25.  USN Vice Adm. Frederick W. Kacher for reappointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as director, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Kacher is currently serving as commander, Seventh Fleet, Yokosuka, Japan.

 

18 Jun 25. Rear Adm. Elizabeth S. Okano for appointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as principal military deputy assistant secretary of the USN (Research, Development and Acquisition), Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Okano is currently serving as Commander, Naval Information Warfare Systems Command, San Diego, California.

 

18 Jun 25.  Rear Adm. Curt A. Renshaw for appointment to the grade of vice admiral, with assignment as commander, U.S. Naval Forces, Central Command/commander, Fifth Fleet and commander, Combined Maritime Forces, Manama, Bahrain. Renshaw is currently serving as director of Operations, J-3, U.S. Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) Kristin Acquavella for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Acquavella most recently served as commander, Naval Supply Systems Command Weapons Systems Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) David M. Buzzetti for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Buzzetti is currently serving as deputy joint staff surgeon/director, Reserve Medical Readiness Operations and Affairs, Joint Staff, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) Matthew Case for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Case is currently serving as deputy to the Assistant Director Health Care, Defense Health Agency/chief, Medical Service Corps, Falls Church, Virginia.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) David J. Faehnle for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Faehnle is currently serving as commandant, Naval District Washington, Washington USN Yard, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) Joaquin J. Martinez de Pinillos for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Martinez de Pinillos is currently serving as reserve director, Maritime Operations, U.S. Pacific Fleet, Pearl Harbor, Hawaii.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) Donald M. Plummer for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Plummer is currently serving as reserve vice director, Joint Force Development, Joint Staff (J-7), Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Rear Adm. (lower half) Christopher D. Stone for appointment to the grade of rear admiral. Stone is currently serving as director, Strategy, Policy, Programs, and Logistics, J-5/4, U.S. Transportation Command, Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Frank J. Brajevic for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Brajevic is currently serving as chief of staff, Naval Medical Forces Pacific USN Reserve, San Diego, California.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Sharif H. Calfee for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Calfee most recently served as senior military advisor to the Secretary of the USN, Office of the Secretary of the USN, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Christopher A. Carter for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Carter is currently serving as commander, USN Reserve Naval Special Warfare Task Force Eighteen, San Diego, California.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Kevin M. Corcoran has for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Corcoran is currently serving as deputy commander, USN Expeditionary Logistics Support Group, Williamsburg, Virginia.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Matthew A. Hawkins for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Hawkins is currently serving as chief of staff, USN Reserve U.S. Naval Forces Europe/Africa, Naples, Italy.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Jonathan J. Jettparmer for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Jettparmer is currently serving as director, USN Reserve Program Office, Naval Sea Systems Command, Washington USN Yard, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Suzanne J.M. Krauss for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Krauss is currently serving as commanding officer, USN Reserve Commander Sixth Fleet Headquarters, Naples, Italy.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Anthony L. Lacourse for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Lacourse is currently serving as force surgeon, USN Reserve U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Central Command, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Kristin L. McCarthy for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). McCarthy is currently serving as director, Legal Services, USN Reserve Office of the Judge Advocate General Headquarters, Washington USN Yard, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Lester Ortiz for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Ortiz is currently serving as commodore, USN Reserve Seventh Naval Construction Regiment, Gulfport, Mississippi.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Quinton S. Packard for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Packard is currently serving as a military fellow at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Rigel D. Pirrone for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Pirrone is currently serving as commanding officer, USN Reserve N5/N7, U.S. Naval Forces Europe/Africa, Naples, Italy.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Kimberly M. Sandberg for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Sandberg is currently serving as chief of staff, USN Reserve Naval Medical Forces Support Command, Houston, Texas.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Michael J. Thornton for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Thornton is currently serving as force surgeon, USN Reserve Naval Forces Korea, Busan, Korea.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Jonathan R. Townsend for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Townsend is currently serving as commanding officer, Naval Support Activity South Potomac, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USN Capt. Kelly C. Ward for appointment to the grade of rear admiral (lower half). Ward is currently serving as Reserve chief staff officer to commander, USN Expeditionary Combat Command, Virginia Beach, Virginia.

 

13 Jun 25. USMC Col. Christopher G. Tolar for appointment to the grade of major general, with assignment as staff judge advocate to the Commandant of the Marine Corps, Pentagon, Washington, D.C. Tolar is currently serving as command judge advocate, U.S. Africa Command, Stuttgart, Germany.

 

13 Jun 25. Army BG John B. Hinson for appointment to the grade of major general.  Hinson is currently serving as commanding general, U.S. Army Sustainment Command, Rock Island, Illinois.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG David M. Castaneda for appointment to the grade of major general. Castaneda is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, Ninth USAF, Southwest Asia.

 

13 Jun 25.  USAF BG Michael P. Cruff for appointment to the grade of major general. Cruff is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the chief of USAF Reserve, Headquarters U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG Aaron D. Drake for appointment to the grade of major general.  Drake is currently serving as special assistant to the director, Defense Intelligence Agency, Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG Leslie S. Hadley for appointment to the grade of major general. Hadley is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, USAF Special Operations Command, Hurlburt Field, Florida.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG Jennie R. Johnson for appointment to the grade of major general. Johnson is currently serving as director, USAF Reserve Personnel, Headquarters U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG Lori C. Jones for appointment to the grade of major general. Jones is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, Sixteenth USAF, Lackland USAF Base, Texas.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG Preston F. McFarren for appointment to the grade of major general. McFarren is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, USAF Reserve Command, Robins USAF Base, Georgia.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG Stacey L. Scarisbrick for appointment to the grade of major general. Scarisbrick is currently serving as director, Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection, Headquarters USAF Reserve Command, Robins USAF Base, Georgia.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG Stephen E. Slade for appointment to the grade of major general. Slade is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, Space Operations Command, Peterson USSFBase, Colorado.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF BG Dean D. Sniegowski for appointment to the grade of major general. Sniegowski is currently serving as special assistant to the commander, USAF Reserve Command, Robins USAF Base, Georgia.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF BG Robert J. Hutt for appointment to the grade of major general. Hutt is currently serving as deputy program manager, Golden Dome of America, Office of the Deputy Secretary of Defense, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF BG Anthony J. Mastalir for appointment to the grade of major general. Mastalir is currently serving as commander, Space Forces, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, U.S. Space Force, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF BG Brian D. Sidari for appointment to the grade of major general. Sidari is currently serving as director of Intelligence, U.S. Space Command, Schriever USSF Base, Colorado.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Keolani W. Bailey for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Bailey is currently serving as director, Air National Guard Pacific USAF, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Chad W. Biehl for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Biehl is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the Director of Operations, Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration, Air Mobility Command, Scott USAF Base, Illinois.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Jeremy S. Bergin for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Bergin is currently serving as chief of staff, Headquarters USAF Special Operations Command, Hurlburt Field, Florida.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Gregory D. Buchanan for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Buchanan is currently serving as commander, 439th Airlift Wing, Westover Air Reserve Base, Massachusetts.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Connie L. Clay for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Clay is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the deputy assistant secretary of the USAF for Acquisition Integration, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the USAF for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, Headquarters U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Charles D. Cooley for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Cooley is currently serving as commander, 36th Wing, Pacific USAFs, Andersen USAF Base, Guam.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Lauren Courchaine for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Courchaine is currently serving as senior military advisor to the Under Secretary of the USAF, Office of the Under Secretary of the USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Kevin M. Crofton for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Crofton is currently serving as commander, 52nd Fighter Wing, U.S. USAFs in Europe–USAFs Africa, Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Laura S. DeJong for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. DeJong is currently serving as commander, 5th Field Investigations Region, USAF Office of Special Investigations, Office of the Inspector General of the Department of the USAF, Ramstein Air Base, Germany.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Daniel C. Diehl for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Diehl is currently serving as chief of staff, Headquarters USAF Global Strike Command, Barksdale USAF Base, Louisiana.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Allen E. Duckworth for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Duckworth is currently serving as director, Operations, Strategic Deterrence and Nuclear Integration, Headquarters USAF Reserve Command, Robins USAF Base, Georgia.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Mark J. Estlund for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Estlund is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the Director, Cyberspace Operations and Warfighter Communications, Headquarters U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. David A. Fazenbaker for appointment to the grade of brigadier general.  Fazenbaker is currently serving as executive officer to the commander, U.S. Transportation Command, Headquarters U.S. Transportation Command, Scott USAF Base, Illinois.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. John P. Flint for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Flint is currently serving as director, Air National Guard Forces, Air Combat Command, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Jeremy R. Ford for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Ford is currently serving as director of Operations A-3, National Guard Bureau, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Ryan J. Garlow for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Garlow is currently serving as commander, 100th Air Refueling Wing, U.S. USAFs, Europe–USAFs Africa, Royal USAF Mildenhall, United Kingdom.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Kristin K. Haley for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Haley is currently serving as special assistant to the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Legislative Affairs, Office of Secretary of Defense, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Ethan P. Hinkins for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Hinkins is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the director of Operations, USAF Special Operations Command, Hurlburt Field, Florida.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Michelle K. Idle for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Idle is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, Space Systems Command, Los Angeles USAF Base, California.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Kevin M. Jamieson for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Jamieson is currently serving as deputy director, Operations, Strategic Deterrence, and Nuclear Integration, U.S. USAFs in Europe–USAFs Africa, Ramstein Air Base, Germany.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Henry R. Jeffress for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Jeffress is currently serving as division chief, Futures and Concepts, Deputy Chief of Staff, USAF Futures, Headquarters U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Terrence M. Joyce for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Joyce is currently serving as senior official inquiry officer, Office of the Inspector General of the Department of the USAF, Office of the Secretary of the USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF USAF Col. Shariful M. Khan for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Khan is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, Space Training and Readiness Command, U.S. Space Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. Col. Stacy A.M. Kihara for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Kihara is currently serving as commander, National Security Agency-Texas, San Antonio, Texas.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Patrick R. Launey for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Launey is currently serving as commander, 635th Supply Chain Operations Wing, USAF Materiel Command, Scott USAF Base, Illinois.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Bernadette Maldonado for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Maldonado is currently serving as Air National Guard advisor to the Commander, USAF Personnel Center, Randolph USAF Base, Texas.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. James C. McFarland for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. McFarland is currently serving as senior executive officer to the Vice Chief of Staff of the USAF, Headquarters U.S. USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Kenneth C. McGhee for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. McGhee is currently serving as senior military assistant to the Secretary of the USAF, Department of the USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Michael C. Mentavlos for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Mentavlos is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the commander, Office of Special Investigations, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Quantico, Virginia.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Angela F. Ochoa for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Ochoa is currently serving as commander, 89th Airlift Wing, Air Mobility Command, Joint Base Andrews, Maryland.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Amanda L. Okeson for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Okeson is currently serving as senior materiel leader and sentinel system program manager, USAF Nuclear Weapons Center, USAF Materiel Command, Hill USAF Base, Utah.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. William L. Ottati for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Ottati is currently serving as program executive officer for Presidential and Executive Airpower, USAF Life Cycle Management Center, USAF Materiel Command, Wright-Patterson USAF Base, Ohio.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Michael B. Parks for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Parks is currently serving as commander, 94th Airlift Wing, Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Todd E. Randolph for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Randolph is currently serving as military fellow on the Council on Foreign Relations, New York, New York.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Matthew R. Reilman for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Reilman is currently serving as chief of staff, 9th USAF, USAFs Central, Shaw USAF Base, South Carolina.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Ryan E. Richardson for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Richardson is currently serving as director, Human Capital Directorate, Headquarters U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt USAF Base, Nebraska.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Nathan L. Rusin for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Rusin is currently serving as military assistant to the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, Office of the Secretary of Defense, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. George H. Sebren, Jr. for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Sebren is currently serving as deputy commander, USAF Sustainment Center, USAF Materiel Command, Tinker USAF Base, Oklahoma.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Athanasia Shinas for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Shinas is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the Director, Logistics, Engineering, and Force Protection, Pacific USAFs, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Xaviera Slocum for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Slocum is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the Director, Legislative Liaison, Office of the Secretary of the USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Anthony L. Smith for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Smith is currently serving as commander, 87th Air Base Wing, Air Mobility Command, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Kristoffer R. Smith for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Smith is currently serving as deputy director, Plans, Programs, and Requirements, Headquarters Air Combat Command, Langley USAF Base, Virginia.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Molly A. Spedding for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Spedding is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the director of Logistics, Engineering and Force Protection, Headquarters Air Mobility Command, Scott USAF Base, Illinois.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Gavin  D. Tade for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Tade is currently serving as mobilization assistant to the director of Plans, Programs and Requirements, Air Combat Command, Langley USAF Base, Virginia.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Joseph C. Turnham for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Turnham is currently serving as vice director, Operations, Headquarters North American Aerospace Defense Command and U.S. Northern Command, Peterson USSFBase, Colorado.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Scott P. Weyermuller for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Weyermuller is currently serving as senior executive officer to the Commander, U.S. Strategic Command, Headquarters U.S. Strategic Command, Offutt USAF Base, Nebraska.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Joshua P. Williams for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Williams is currently serving as program executive officer, Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Special Operations Forces, USAF Life Cycle Management Center, USAF Materiel Command, Wright-Patterson USAF Base, Ohio.

 

13 Jun 25. USAF Col. Constance H. Young for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Young is currently serving as director, Office of Secretary of the USAF and Chief of Staff of the USAF Executive Action Group, Department of the USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF Col. Casey M. Beard for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Beard is currently serving as senior executive officer to the Chief of Space Operations, Headquarters U.S. Space Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF Col. Todd J. Benson for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Benson is currently serving as director of Strategy and Requirements, Headquarters U.S. Space Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF Col. Robert W. Davis for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Davis is currently serving as program executive officer, Space Sensing, Space Systems Command, Los Angeles USAF Base, California.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF Col. Christopher A. Fernengel for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Fernengel is currently serving as director, Combatant Commander’s Action Group, U.S. Space Command, Schriever USSFBase, Colorado.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF Col. Nikki R. Frankino for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Frankino is currently serving as chief house liaison officer, Office of the Secretary of the USAF, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF Col. Tyler N. Hague for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Hague is currently serving as pilot, SpaceX Commercial Crew Vehicle/astronaut, National Aeronautics and Space Administration, Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center, Houston, Texas.

 

13 Jun 25. USSF Col. Matthew E. Holston for appointment to the grade of brigadier general. Holston is currently serving as director, Personnel Management Act Integration Office, U.S. Space Force, Pentagon, Washington, D.C.

 

INDUSTRY

 

INDUSTRY TEAMINGS

 

19 Jun 25. Thales, a global technology leader for the Defence, Aerospace and Cyber & Digital sectors, and Danish defence and aerospace manufacturer for both civilian and military applications, Terma, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding at Paris Air Show.

• The MoU covers future cooperation within three core domains – Air and Air Defence, Naval and Space.
• The agreement is a formal commitment by Thales and Terma to work together and is fully aligned with Thales’s strategic focus on partnering with local companies to the benefit of both local and international defence industry players and customers.

Paris Air Show, Paris: Thales and Terma have signed a Memorandum of Understanding signaling their commitment to local industrial cooperation and a potential strategic partnership within the three key domains of Air and Air Defence, Naval and Space. This cooperation and strategic partnership will help to strengthen the European industrial and technological base to the benefit of local and international defence industry.

“Thales is a leading global provider in these three domains and partnering with Terma provides an opportunity to join forces in the development of future cooperation to build our companies’ potential and position the Danish defence industry as a key European player. Thales is committed to working with local industries to create value for our customers. Terma is a worldwide player and this partnership will offer exciting new opportunities for both companies in Denmark and internationally.” Pascale Sourisse, Senior Executive Vice-President, International Development, Thales.

“At Terma, we are committed to strengthening European security through trusted partnerships and industrial collaboration. Thales is one of the world’s leading defence companies, and we are proud to formalize and expand our long-standing relationship. With this agreement, we are deepening cooperation across air, naval, and space domains – areas where both our companies bring unique strengths. Together, we can support the development of a more integrated and resilient European defence and technology base, for the benefit of our customers and allies.” Henriette Hallberg Thygesen, CEO Terma.

 

18 Jun 25. Safran Electronics & Defense, a leader in high-tech defence solutions, and the defence company Babcock International Group (Babcock) , have announced plans to increase collaboration across multi-domain mission systems, aircraft engines, space systems, tactical and strategic communications. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), signed at the Paris Air Show, aims to combine the world-class expertise of Safran and Babcock to deliver advanced, competitive, and innovative solutions for the UK, France, and international defence markets. It builds on a longstanding and trusted partnership between two key players in the defence sector, whose capabilities support products from submarines to satellites and will involve the companies jointly pursuing major defence programmes in land, naval, and air domains, and accelerating the development and integration of new technologies. The MOU also supports the shared ambitions of the British and French governments to enhance bilateral defence ties through the Lancaster House Treaties. It reflects a common commitment to strengthening European security and building a resilient, sovereign industrial base for future defence challenges. Cooperation under this agreement will include joint research and development opportunities, sharing best practices across engineering, manufacturing, and support, and bolstering supply chain resilience to protect sovereignty and security of supply. Both companies are dedicated to supporting government strategies that drive economic growth and create high-value jobs in both nations.

Franck Saudo, President of Safran Electronics & Defense, stated: “This new step embodies the deep trust and enduring relationship between France and the United Kingdom. By pooling our expertise and resources, we are better positioned to address evolving defence needs and support the ambitions set by our governments to reinforce Franco-British leadership in the sector.”

David Lockwood, CEO of Babcock, added: “Our defence customers need the assurance that industry is working together to develop and deliver the best, and most innovative, products and services.  Babcock and Safran will develop our relationship to increase military support, while strengthening the partnership between France and UK.”

Through this strengthened alliance, Safran and Babcock reaffirm their commitment to advancing Franco-British cooperation for the benefit of national security, economic prosperity, and European defence leadership.

 

PERSONNEL

 

EUROPE APPOINTMENTS

 

17 Jun 25. Deutsche Aircraft announces the next step in its strategic evolution. Nico Neumann, currently co-CEO, has been appointed Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Deutsche Aircraft and Deutsche Aircraft Leipzig, with effect from July 1st, 2025, marking a natural progression in the company’s leadership journey. Dave Jackson, who has led the company as CEO for over 19 years, will focus his leadership at the group level, as CEO of Deutsche Aircraft Group, supporting Nico and the team in the operative entities.

 

16 Jun 25. The International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS) announced the appointment of Lord Sedwill as the new Chair of the Trustees. Lord Sedwill will assume the role on 16 July 2025. He replaces Bill Emmott, who assumed the role of Chair in January 2019.  Mark Sedwill, Baron Sedwill of Sherborne GCMG FRGS LLD, was Cabinet Secretary and Head of the UK Civil Service (2018–20), National Security Adviser (2017–20), Permanent Secretary at the Home Office (2013–17), and British Ambassador and NATO Representative in Afghanistan (2009–11). Before that he had a diplomatic and security career serving in Egypt, Syria, Jordan, Cyprus and Pakistan. He became a Trustee of the IISS in February 2024.

 

U.S. APPOINTMENTS

 

16 Jun 25. BWX Technologies, Inc. (NYSE: BWXT) announced today the appointment of Kevin M. McCoy as the company’s chief nuclear officer. In this role, McCoy will support the Department of Defense and Department of the Navy to accelerate the pace of Columbia and Virginia Class submarine production programs for the U.S. Navy. Since 2022, McCoy has served as president of BWXT’s Government Operations segment where he was responsible for overseeing BWXT’s Nuclear Operations and Technical Services Groups and its subsidiary Advanced Technologies, LLC. McCoy has over 40 years of leadership experience in shipyard operations, nuclear industrial operations and senior engineering positions in the U.S. Navy and private sector. He served as chief engineer of the U.S. Navy from 2005 to 2008 and as commander of the Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) from 2008 to 2013. He retired with the rank of Vice Admiral. Before joining BWXT, McCoy served as president of Irving Shipbuilding Inc. in Nova Scotia, Canada, from 2013 to 2021. With extensive shipbuilding and ship repair related experience, McCoy’s accomplishments include the design, procurement, construction oversight, maintenance, modernization and engineering support of the U.S. Navy’s fleet of submarines, surface ships, aircraft carriers and weapon systems. He served in leadership positions in five of the U.S. Navy’s nuclear shipyards and commanded the Portsmouth Naval Shipyard from 2001 to 2004. With McCoy’s new role, BWXT is also making the following leadership announcements: Joseph K. Miller succeeds McCoy as president of Government Operations. Since 2021, Miller has served as president of BWXT Advanced Technologies. Under Miller’s leadership, Advanced Technologies achieved 10x growth in program content and successfully contracted two federally funded first-of-a-kind prototype programs for advanced nuclear microreactors. Miller joined BWXT in 2011 as an engineer working on advanced commercial energy solutions, had advanced into managerial roles by 2013, became the program manager for advanced nuclear applications in 2017, and general manager of Advanced Technologies in 2020. Before joining BWXT, he was a mechanical test engineer for new construction of Virginia-class submarines at Newport News Shipbuilding and a semiconductor equipment engineer at Samsung Austin Semiconductor. Miller began his career serving in the U.S. Navy onboard the USS Norfolk (SSN 714). (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

16 Jun 25. D-Fend Solutions today announced two strategic hires to its executive leadership team. Uri Nisani has been hired as Vice President, R&D and Pini Gvili as Vice President, Operations. As Vice President of R&D, Uri Nisani will drive the development of D-Fend Solutions’ RF-cyber technology. With over 25 years of hands-on experience, Uri has a strong record in enhancing security infrastructure and managing large scale engineering teams. Prior to D-Fend Solutions, Uri was VP of R&D at Radware and KayHut and held leadership roles at Cisco, which he joined via its acquisition of Class DATA Systems, focusing on advanced monitoring technologies and cybersecurity solutions. Uri’s leadership will ensure D-Fend continues to set new standards in RF-cyber based drone mitigation. As Vice President of Operations, Pini Gvili will oversee the company’s operational activities, including supply chain, procurement, production, and quality. Prior to joining D-Fend Solutions, Pini held global executive leadership and management roles in a variety of public and private companies, such as Allot and Terayon, with a focus on operational excellence, strategic planning, and building operations for scale. Pini’s expertise will help D-Fend Solutions optimize delivery and support for clients operating in demanding, sensitive, and complex environments. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)

 

19 Jun 25. IFS, the leading provider of enterprise cloud and Industrial AI software, today announced the appointment of Mark Buongiorno as President, Aerospace & Defence. Based in North America, Buongiorno joins the IFS executive leadership team, bringing with him over three decades of Aerospace & Defence leadership, operations, and engineering experience. Buongiorno was most recently CEO of Tsunami Tsolutions, a privately held engineering and IT services company focused on the Aerospace & Defence industry. He succeeds current president Scott Helmer, who transitions into the role of Chairman of IFS Aerospace & Defence. As Chairman, Helmer will focus on strategic customer pursuits and relationships, mentoring, M&A activity, and special projects.

 

13 Jun 25. nLIGHT, Inc. (Nasdaq: LASR), a leading provider of high-power lasers for mission critical directed energy, optical sensing, and advanced manufacturing applications, today announced the appointment of Mark Hartman to its Board of Directors as a Class III director with a term expiring at the Company’s 2027 annual meeting of stockholders. Mr. Hartman also was appointed to serve on the Audit Committee of the Board of Directors and is replacing Doug Carlisle, who resigned effective June 12, 2025. Mr. Carlisle served as a director of nLIGHT since 2001. (Source: BUSINESS WIRE)

 

18 Jun 25. SIXGEN announced the appointment of Lieutenant General (Ret.) Scott Howell, former Commander of Joint Special Operations Command (JSOC), to its Board of Directors. As the digital battlespace grows more contested, this appointment supports SIXGEN’s ongoing efforts to enhance the nation’s security apparatus and collaborate with the U.S. defense and intelligence communities. In his new role, Lt. Gen. Howell will lend his extensive experience to further SIXGEN’s impactful mission. (Source: PR Newswire)