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UNITED KINGDOM AND NATO
05 Mar 25. Cutting-Edge Research on AI Security bolstered with new Challenge Fund to ramp up public trust and adoption. AI security research and protecting critical systems will be the focus of the first grant fund created under the AI Security Institute.
* AI security research and protecting critical systems will be the focus of the first grant fund created under the AI Security Institute
* Researchers worldwide can access grants up to £200,000 for innovative research to harden critical industries, prevent AI misuse, and ensure oversight and control of these highly capable systems
* New work will increase public confidence in the technology, driving up adoption and boosting growth as part of the government’s Plan for Change
The first ever Challenge Fund launched under the AI Security Institute today (Wednesday 5 March) will focus on areas critical to the UK’s national security such as AI misuse, bolstering public confidence in the technology and leading to greater AI adoption across the economy as a central pillar of the government’s Plan for Change.
Researchers covering a range of AI security threats, such as protecting critical systems from failure and preventing AI misuse, can now apply for fresh funding to strengthen UK defences, as part of a £5 m programme. As AI capabilities advance, so do the risks, making investment in robust security research more urgent than ever. By tackling these risks head on, the government will also boost public trust in AI – helping to remove barriers for those looking to adopt the technology to drive forward growth, innovation, and new opportunities in all areas of the economy.
Led by the UK’s AI Security Institute, the Challenge Fund will award grants of up to £200,000 per project to address pressing, open questions in AI security and safety – with researchers being called on to put their proposals forward.
This initiative reinforces the Institute’s renewed security focus, building a strong evidence base to understand and mitigate the most serious threats posed by advanced AI systems. It will also ensure the UK’s critical infrastructure is protected as the government looks to unlock AI’s full potential and boost adoption across the economy – ramping up productivity and ensuring more innovative AI is developed on UK shores as part of the Plan for Change.
Minister for AI and Digital Government Feryal Clark said: “AI is at the heart of our Plan for Change – driving economic growth, creating jobs, and transforming public services for people across the country. But to unlock its full potential, we must ensure AI systems are secure, resilient, and trusted – with safety baked in from the start. This fund supports world-class research to tackle the toughest safety and security challenges in AI, protecting critical infrastructure and removing barriers to adoption. By addressing these challenges head-on, we’re laying the foundations for AI to boost productivity, strengthen public services and power a decade of national renewal. The fund will focus on supporting research tackling 4 critical AI security and safety challenges. As AI integrates into financial markets, healthcare and energy grids, failures or misuse could cause systemic disruptions and security risks – as such, the research will help boost confidence in AI and make sure our economy is better protected. Ensuring human oversight is another priority, as AI takes on complex decision-making roles. The fund will support research into robust controls which will allow humans to reliably monitor and intervene to prevent any emerging risks, even as AI systems operate autonomously. This funding will support research to strengthen protections and reduce these risks.”
AI Security Institute Chair Ian Hogarth said: “This fund directly supports researchers seeking to understand and address the most urgent AI risks – whether that’s ensuring AI systems remain resilient against misuse, ensuring human oversight over autonomous systems or strengthening our society against emerging threats. Making sure AI systems are aligned and operate with human oversight are 2 of the key open questions in technical AI safety. By funding high-impact research across these priority areas, we’re building the evidence base needed to develop a robust understanding of, and real-world solutions for, the most urgent security risks AI presents. By advancing AI security, the fund will bolster public confidence, drive long-term economic growth, and cement the UK’s leadership in responsible AI development. This aligns with the government’s Plan for Change, accelerating AI adoption to enhance productivity and improve public services nationwide. The AI Security Institute will provide grants to researchers and non-profit organisations worldwide with clear, tangible security solutions. Proposals will be assessed on their potential impact, with priority given to innovations that would not be realised without this support.”
Further information
Visit the AI Security Institute website for further details: https://www.aisi.gov.uk/
Applications open on 5 March 2025, with successful projects announced within 12 weeks.
DSIT media enquiries
Monday to Friday, 8:30am to 6pm 020 7215 300
(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
04 Mar 25. Defence Review to consider future of Typhoon procurement. The future of the UK’s combat air capability is under scrutiny as the Ministry of Defence (MoD) considers the export procurement of new Typhoon jets against the potential cessation of Typhoon final assembly at BAE Systems’ Warton facility, and the retention of skilled workers for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). During a series of parliamentary questions on March 3, Liberal Democrat MP Tom Morrison pressed the government on whether it planned to order additional Typhoon aircraft for the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Fleet Air Arm, as well as the broader impact of shifting to F-35A jets.
In response, Minister of State for Defence Maria Eagle confirmed that the MoD is conducting an ongoing Strategic Defence Review, which will determine the demand for combat aircraft in response to an increasingly complex threat environment. She stated: “To provide the UK with the most relevant and capable force, the Ministry of Defence continually reviews the demand for Combat Aircraft which will be required to operate in increasingly demanding and changing threat environments. The ongoing Strategic Defence Review is also examining this area.”
Typhoon Production at Risk?
Concerns over the potential end of final assembly for Typhoon aircraft at BAE Systems’ Warton facility have also been raised. Morrison asked whether the government had engaged with BAE Systems regarding the issue. Eagle confirmed that discussions with BAE Systems and other stakeholders had been ongoing for months, particularly regarding export campaigns for the Typhoon. However, she did not directly confirm or deny whether Typhoon production at Warton is set to cease. The prospect of Typhoon production ending raises serious questions about the sustainability of the UK’s defence industrial base, especially considering the workforce at Warton. The government has maintained that export orders remain key to sustaining the production line, but with future orders uncertain, the viability of keeping the assembly line running domestically is in question.
Ensuring Workforce Retention for GCAP
As the UK works on developing its sixth-generation fighter under the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), Morrison also questioned what steps the government is taking to ensure that the skilled workforce required for the programme is retained. Eagle confirmed that discussions are ongoing with stakeholders, but again, provided no clear commitments beyond stating that the issue is part of the Strategic Defence Review. Given that combat aircraft development is a long-term endeavour, retaining highly skilled engineers, designers, and production workers will be essential to delivering the next generation of air combat capability. With uncertainty surrounding Typhoon production and shifting procurement priorities, industry leaders will be looking for greater clarity on how the government intends to sustain the UK’s aeronautical engineering expertise.
What Next?
The UK government’s defence review will be key in shaping the future of its air combat capabilities and industrial base. The potential cessation of Typhoon final assembly, increased reliance on the F-35, and workforce retention for GCAP all present critical questions that must be addressed. (Source: News Now/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/)
28 Feb 25. Britain said on Friday it would launch an innovation hub that will work with defence firms to speed up the delivery of military technologies, in an effort to reform the sector and boost growth. The move comes days after Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced an increase in defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027, and a target of 3% for the next parliament due to start in 2029.
“In the world we face, national security and economic growth are going to go hand in hand,” finance minister Rachel Reeves said. “High-skilled, well-paid jobs across the UK will both make our country safer and put pounds in people’s pockets.”
Britain’s Labour government, elected last July on a promise to drive economic growth, views the defence industry as a driver of skilled jobs. The new unit will be officially launched alongside Reeves’ economic update on March 26 and is expected to support thousands of jobs, the government said. (Source: Reuters)
EUROPE
04 Mar 25. Airbus, Boeing angle for Polish tanker aircraft deal. The Polish Ministry of National Ministry is advancing plans to buy new transport and refueling aircraft, with major players Airbus and Boeing intensifying their rivalry for potential contracts. A Polish MoD spokesperson confirmed the ministry’s aircraft procurement plans, but also said the final scope of these purchases is yet to be defined.
“Poland is considering to accelerate the acquisition of air refueling capabilities. We are interested in acquiring aircraft capable of acting both as air tankers and transport aircraft under the Karkonosze program,” the spokesperson told Defense News.
The Polish ministry plans to buy refueling planes to service the country’s growing fleet of fighters. Poland operates F-16 jets and FA-50 light attack aircraft, among others, and is awaiting the delivery of the first of its 32 ordered F-35 fighters in 2026. Local observers name Airbus’s A330 multi-role tanker transport (MRTT) as one of the forerunners for the potential order. The ministry is also considering to acquire the European group’s A400M transport aircraft, Germany’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said in January 2025 during a visit to the Airbus Defence and Space plant in Bremen, German specialist news site Hartpunkt.de reported. Meanwhile, as Poland’s government is mulling plans to purchase shares in Airbus, Warsaw could combine its investment with buying between two and four A330 MRTT aircraft and between six and eight A400M planes for the Polish military, according to French daily Le Monde. The European group will likely compete for the potential order against Boeing which has been heavily promoting its KC-46 tanker in Poland alongside the F-15EX fighter jet offer for the country’s Air Force. The Polish military is considering to acquire a further 32 fighter jets, and it is also assessing the Eurofighter Typhoon and buying more F-35s. In a major win for Boeing, in August 2024, Poland signed a deal worth about $10 bn to purchase 96 AH-64E Apache copters. The deal was followed by a $300m contract signed in February under which the Ministry of National Defence leased eight Boeing AH-64D helos from the United States this year. (Source: Defense News)
28 Feb 25. Polish MoD initiates AH-64D Apache helicopter lease with US. This interim solution allows Poland develop operational skills until the AH-64E Apache helicopters are delivered. The Polish Ministry of Defence has initiated a series of agreements with the US to lease the AH-64D Apache attack helicopters for the Army. The signing ceremony, held at Latkowo airport in Inowroclaw, included figures such as Deputy Minister of National Defense Pawel Bejda, US representatives, and personnel from Boeing. These agreements facilitate the transfer of eight AH-64D Apache helicopters from the US to the Polish Armed Forces. They also ensure the comprehensive management of their operation and the training of Polish personnel throughout the lease period. This interim solution allows Poland to develop the necessary operational skills until the delivery of the target AH-64E Apache helicopters, which have been previously ordered. The AH-64D Apaches are assigned for the 1st Land Forces Aviation Brigade, where a training programme for pilots, technical staff, and support personnel will commence. Following a training agreement struck in 2023 by the Air Force Inspectorate, the inaugural group of Polish pilots and engineers have completed training courses in the US and will serve as the future instructional cadre. This acquisition is a part of enhancing the combat prowess of the Land Forces Aviation. (Source: army-technology.com)
USA
05 Mar 25. Trump to launch new White House office focused on shipbuilding. As part of his sweeping national address on Tuesday night, President Donald Trump promised to establish a new office of shipbuilding within the White House to revitalize the industry and bolster American naval strength. The vow — which came during the national security section of Trump’s nearly two-hour speech — was included among broader plans to “boost our defense industrial base” for America.
“We are also going to resurrect the American shipbuilding industry, including commercial shipbuilding and military shipbuilding,” Trump said, eliciting applause from Republican lawmakers in the House chamber for the address.
“We used to make so many ships. We don’t make them anymore very much, but we’re going to make them very fast, very soon. It will have a huge impact to further enhance our national security.”
Trump also promised “special tax incentives to bring this industry home” but did not offer any more specifics. The White House did not immediately provide any other details of what the new office will oversee or who will lead the effort. Last month, during the confirmation hearing for John Phelan, Trump’s pick to serve as Navy Secretary, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Roger Wicker, R-Miss., lamented that “just about every major U.S. shipbuilding program is behind schedule, over budget or irreparably off track.” He called for a complete overhaul of Navy shipbuilding goals and processes.
“We must stabilize shipbuilding programs, adopt commercial best practices and incentivize the shipyards to address workforce and productivity issues in a collaborative rather than combative manner,” Wicker said. “And we can quickly inject innovation into naval procurement, particularly on unmanned ships.”
Phelan voiced support for that approach, but he did not mention any specifics related to the new White House office. Earlier this year, officials from the Congressional Budget Office said the Navy would need to spend more than $40 bn annually for 30 years for the U.S. Navy to fulfill its proposed plans to expand its battle force fleet. There are currently 295 battle force ships in the fleet, with that number expected to drop to 283 ships by 2027 because of planned retirements. The service has stated it hopes to grow the fleet to 381 ships by 2054. The new shipbuilding office would be a direct counter to the Chinese shipbuilding industry, the largest in the world. Industry officials estimate that Chinese firms have built nearly half of the world’s merchant vessels, and the country has publicly invested heavily in their own naval build-up. In Tuesday’s speech, Trump also promised to build a new missile defense shield to protect America and continue other military reforms to strengthen the armed forces. In a statement after the speech, officials from the Shipbuilders Council of America praised the announcement.
“Since the founding days of our nation, the U.S. shipyard industry and industrial base has played a central role in national and domestic security, and remains steadfast in its commitment to maintaining our nation’s security vessels while building the fleet of the future,” said Matthew Paxton, president of the group. “By fully utilizing the existing domestic shipyard capacity, the shipyard industrial base can meet the growing demands of national defense, restore American competitiveness, and create thousands of skilled jobs in communities across the nation.” (Source: Defense News Early Bird/Defense News)
04 Mar 25. Lockheed out of Navy’s F/A-XX future fighter competition. A source with knowledge of the program told Breaking Defense that Lockheed submitted a bid for the next-gen fighter effort, but the proposal did not satisfy the Navy’s criteria, leaving Boeing and Northrop Grumman as the remaining competitors. Lockheed Martin is out of the running for the Navy’s sixth-generation fighter jet program, known as Next Generation Air Dominance or F/A-XX, Breaking Defense has learned. A source with knowledge of the program told Breaking Defense that Lockheed submitted a bid to the Navy, but the proposal did not satisfy the service’s criteria. The company is now no longer proceeding with the bid. The Navy previously told Breaking Defense in November that the service was evaluating proposals, but it is unclear when Lockheed was knocked out of the competition. The outcome leaves a horse race between Northrop Grumman and Boeing to replace the venerable F/A-18 and E/A-18 with a new air superiority fighter. At stake for Northrop is its first fighter contract since the F-14 Tomcat, famed for its appearance in the original Top Gun movie; at stake for Boeing is the future of its fighter arm, which has seen a massive investment in its St. Louis facility on a gamble that the company will win a sixth-gen contract from the US military. Lockheed referred a request for comment to the Navy. The Navy did not respond to requests for comment by deadline. Lockheed, which cornered the market on fifth-generation fighters through its ubiquitous F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and the F-22 Raptor, still has a shot to build a sixth-generation jet through the Air Force’s separate fighter competition, also known as Next Generation Air Dominance, where the company is facing off against Boeing. The F/A-XX program is the highest-profile aircraft competition in the Navy in two decades, but the service has kept the effort highly secretive. Little is known about the capabilities or requirements of the aircraft, aside from the fact that it will be built to complement the F-35 aboard the service’s warships and will have a different airframe and engine than the Air Force’s sixth-gen fighter effort.
John Phelan, the Trump administration’s pick to become the next Navy secretary, characterized F/A-XX as a “next-generation aircraft, offering significant advancements in operational reach and capacity within contested environments” in written answers to questions from lawmakers published last week.
The program “is intended to enable Carrier Strike Groups to outpace adversaries while maintaining naval air dominance,” and will involve collaboration with the Air Force and Marine Corps on autonomy, mission systems, communication architectures, and autonomous combat drones, he wrote [PDF]. In its fiscal 2025 budget request, the Navy delayed about $1 bn of research and development funding that had been slated for F/A-XX in order to fund other readiness priorities while keeping the service’s budget within the constraints of the Fiscal Responsibility Act.
“We’re absolutely committed to the capacity and lethality of the carrier wing,” Rear Adm. Ben Reynolds, deputy assistant secretary of the Navy for budget, told reporters in March 2024. “The capacity [and] the firepower of the air wing is orders of magnitude above anything else that [the Defense Department] has.”
Navy officials have publicly remained committed to awarding an F/A-XX contract this year, a contrast with the Air Force, which put its NGAD program on hold last year as it assessed the program. The Air Force conducted an internal analysis last year, which supported the development and fielding of a manned sixth generation fighter, but officials punted a decision on whether to continue the program to the Trump administration. Stephen Feinberg, the nominee for deputy defense secretary, told the Senate Armed Services Committee last week that the decision on the Air Force program could be made by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth or President Donald Trump. (Source: Breaking Defense.com)
04 Mar 25. Cuashub.com said today that US Navy seeks information on counter-UXS solutions. On Wednesday Feb 26, the United States Navy (USN) issued a Request for Information (RFI) survey for counter-UXS solutions. The RFI was issued by Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane, a component of Naval Sea Systems Command. It reveals the USN is seeking industry solutions to enhance their market awareness and identify potential partners for future test events and demonstrations. The survey specifically seeks capabilities that are TRL 5 or higher with systems below this level not eligible for assessment. Having met this criteria, there are then 129 potential questions for respondents to answer. The full list of questions, which can be found here, provide interesting insight into the USN’s thinking regarding counter-UXS solutions. The nature of these questions range from determining system interoperability, ability to detect multiple threats, system cost, collateral damage and operational considerations. The RFI’s reference to counter-UXS as opposed to counter-UAS acknowledges the threat posed surface and subsurface drones in addition to airborne threats. This has been demonstrated both during the War in Ukraine and by Houthi operations in the Red Sea, where surface and sub surface drones have both been used extensively and have caused significant damage. The challenge of tackling this threat is exacerbated by the fact that existing C-UAS solutions are not necessarily equipped to handle surface and subsurface drones, or even operate in the maritime environment at all. The RFI is not NSWC Crane’s first entry into the C-UAS field- they previously awarded CACI an $80.5m contract back in Dec 21. It is to be hoped this survey provides both the USN and industry with an opportunity to advance this vital field. https://cuashub.com/en/content/us-navy-seeks-information-on-counter-uxs-solutions/ (Source: https://cuashub.com/)
REST OF THE WORLD
05 Mar 25. Australia launches nuclear sub build strategy. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles and Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Minister Pat Conroy have announced the launch of the AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy to support the delivery of Australia’s nuclear-powered submarines. The Albanese government has unveiled a major initiative aimed at strengthening Australia’s defence industry, with a focus on the country’s role in the AUKUS security partnership. The newly launched AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy will provide Australian businesses with clearer pathways to participate in a multibillion-dollar, multi-decade effort to build, operate and maintain conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines. The strategy aims to give Australian businesses confidence to invest in their technical capabilities, workforce and infrastructure by outlining a prioritisation framework for industry participation. To support this, the government has committed $262 million to uplift the local defence sector as part of Australia’s broader nuclear-powered submarine program, announced earlier this year. Minister Marles described the initiative as one of the most significant industrial transformations in Australian history.
“This is an opportunity to build a future made in Australia, by Australians, delivering world-leading maritime capability, advanced manufacturing, well-paid skilled jobs and long-term industry growth. Australian industry will be at the forefront of our conventionally armed, nuclear‑powered submarine program – helping to build, operate and maintain this crucial capability,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
The AUKUS initiative is expected to create around 20,000 direct jobs across government and industry over the next three decades. This includes:
* Between 4,000 and 5,500 jobs in South Australia to support submarine construction.
* Up to 4,000 roles dedicated to designing and building infrastructure at Osborne’s submarine construction yard.
* Around 3,000 direct jobs over the next decade for the expansion of HMAS Stirling in Western Australia.
* A further 3,000 roles for contingency and depot-level maintenance at the Defence Precinct in Henderson once established.
“Our work does not stop here. As a multi-decade, multi-generational undertaking which will create around 20,000 jobs across the country, the strategy will continue to evolve in line with industry and capability requirements as the AUKUS pathway progresses,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
To ensure Australia’s industry is ready for this transformation, the strategy focuses on five key areas:
* Providing clarity on industry demand.
* Enhancing investment attractiveness in critical sectors.
* Streamlining regulations.
* Expanding the skilled workforce.
* Integrating Australian businesses into the US and UK supply chains.
The government’s commitment to developing Australian industry – particularly small and medium-sized enterprises – aligns with broader efforts to bolster the country’s sovereign maritime industrial base. This strategy, developed in consultation with industry, unions and academia, will evolve as Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine program advances.
Minister Conroy expanded on the Deputy Prime Minister’s comments, saying, “The opportunities presented for Australian industry through our nuclear-powered submarine program are immense, and the strategy further explains the Australian government’s commitment to create the opportunities for industry and to support them in accessing them.”
The AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy forms a key part of the 2024 Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Plan and represents a landmark step in Australia’s defence and manufacturing future.
“Australian industry has incredible access to new and unique opportunities beyond our own submarines, now being able to be work with our AUKUS partners and contribute to the sustainment and build of their submarines as we develop a strong, resilient trilateral submarine industrial base. This is our greatest ever industrial undertaking and this strategy will underpin our success,” Minister Conroy said.
AUKUS – an alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom and the United States – was established to enhance security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. A key element of this partnership is the development of Australia’s sovereign nuclear-powered submarine capability, which will be supported by extensive industry investment and workforce expansion. https://www.asa.gov.au/business-industry/australias-aukus-submarine-industry-strategy (Source: Defence Connect)
06 Mar 25. France could open a new Rafale fighter jet assembly line in India to fulfill large-scale contracts. As reported by L’Usine Nouvelle on March 5, 2025, the French company Dassault Aviation is assessing the possibility of establishing a final assembly line for the Rafale fighter jet in India to manage increased production demands following anticipated large orders. CEO Éric Trappier stated, “India is preparing major orders, and we could certainly open a final assembly line in that country to be able to absorb this new workload.” The company is already working to increase its production capacity, with ongoing efforts to ramp up monthly Rafale deliveries while managing supply chain constraints. Dassault is in the process of increasing the production rate of the Rafale fighter jet from two to three aircraft per month, and is aiming to reach four aircraft, with a potential of five depending on future orders. Dassault is in the process of increasing its Rafale production rate, especially given India’s expected procurement of additional Rafale-M carrier-based fighters. The company has transitioned from delivering two aircraft per month to three and aims to reach four, with the potential for five depending on future orders. In 2023, 13 Rafales were delivered, increasing to 21 in 2024, with a target of 25 for 2025. Dassault’s order book includes 230 Rafales, comprising 164 for export customers and 56 for the French Air and Space Force. In 2024, the company secured €8.3bn in military contracts, compared to €6.5bn in 2023. These contracts include orders for 12 aircraft from Serbia and 18 from Indonesia. The total backlog of Dassault military aircraft, including Rafales and Falcon jets, has reached €43.2bn, up from €38.5bn in 2023. Despite efforts to increase production, Dassault is facing supply chain limitations, with certain subcontractors encountering delays following the pandemic. The company has opened a new facility in Cergy-Pontoise to support higher output and is considering additional infrastructure expansion. CEO Éric Trappier has stated that increasing production rates requires approximately two years for each incremental step. Dassault is also monitoring potential changes in U.S. trade policy, as a proposed 25% tariff on aircraft imports could impact Falcon business jet sales. The U.S. accounts for one-third of Falcon deliveries, and price adjustments may be necessary if tariffs are implemented. India has received 36 Rafales under a 2016 contract, with deliveries completed by 2022. The Indian Air Force is considering further orders, while the Indian Navy is finalizing the acquisition of 26 Rafale Marine aircraft for operations from the aircraft carrier INS Vikrant. The potential establishment of an Indian final assembly line would be consistent with the country’s “Make in India” policy, which aims to expand domestic defense manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Dassault has increased its industrial involvement in India since the mid-2010s, setting up production partnerships and maintenance infrastructure to support the Rafale fleet. In addition to procuring additional aircraft, India is integrating the Astra Mk1 missile into its Rafale fleet. The Indian Air Force has demonstrated the Rafale’s ability to intercept targets at high altitudes, including simulated reconnaissance balloons at 16.7 km altitude. These developments are part of broader efforts to enhance the aircraft’s operational capabilities within India’s defense strategy. The Rafale is a twin-engine, canard delta-wing, multirole fighter developed by Dassault Aviation. It is designed for air superiority, deep strike, reconnaissance, and nuclear deterrence missions. The aircraft is equipped with the Thales RBE2 AESA radar, SPECTRA electronic warfare suite, and a range of guided munitions, including Meteor and MICA air-to-air missiles, SCALP cruise missiles, and Exocet anti-ship missiles. Powered by two Snecma M88 turbofan engines, the Rafale has a maximum speed of Mach 1.8, a combat range of 1,850 km, and the ability to sustain supercruise at Mach 1.4. (Source: Google/armyrecognition.com)
06 Mar 25. DroneShield Welcomes Reforms to Australian Procurement Rules.
* New definition of Australian business will help government accurately direct policies involving defence and government procurement.
* Updated guidance on Broader Economic Benefits in Procurement considerations will help Government better understand the positive economic impacts generated from government expenditures with industry.
Canberra – DroneShield Ltd (ASX:DRO), (DroneShield or the Company), as part of the Sovereign Australian Prime Alliance (SAPA), welcomes the Albanese Government’s announcement of much needed reforms to the Commonwealth Procurement Rules to define an Australian business, in the context of the Commonwealth procurement framework as:
- “a business, including any parent business, that:
- has 50% or more Australian ownership or is principally traded on an Australian equities market; and
- is an Australian resident for tax purposes; and
- is a business that has its principal place of business in Australia.”
DroneShield maintains that definitions are an essential building block for defence procurement when designing and implementing industry policies. “The importance of sovereign capability cannot be overstated at times of geopolitical uncertainty,” said Oleg Vornik, CEO of DroneShield.
“As a proud sovereign defence technology company, DroneShield – alongside its Sovereign Australian Prime Alliance (SAPA) partners – welcomes the important procurement reforms the Australian Government has announced to redefine what constitutes an Australian business. Government will now be able to make accurate assessments of policies affecting Australia’s industrial base – both local and international – and direct future policies with confidence.”
SAPA also welcomed the additional reform to Commonwealth Procurement Rules, introducing the Broader Economic Benefits in Procurement metric when making value judgements in government tendering. This reform will require future government procurement to consider a broader range of weightings, priority outcomes, and contracting considerations when assessing submissions for government contracts. Along with multiple industry peak bodies, SAPA participated in the Ministerial Working Group (Working Group) to help shape this important bipartisan reform. We look forward to working with Commonwealth government departments as this new reform gets embedded in future procurement and tendering processes, and we encourage state/ territory governments to adopt this commonsense solution which has been led at the Federal level. SAPA acknowledges the work of everyone involved in the Working Group and pays particular mention to representatives of the Department of Finance, and the Department of Industry, Science & Resources, as well as the offices of Minister for Finance, Sen. the Hon. Katy Gallagher and Minister for Industry, Science & Resources the Hon Ed Husic MP for their commitment to reaching this positive outcome. SAPA would also like to thank Senator for ACT David Pocock and his office for their advocacy for this important reform.
05 Mar 25. Australia launches nuclear sub build strategy. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Richard Marles and Defence Industry & Capability Delivery Minister, Pat Conroy have announced the launch of the AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy to support the delivery of Australia’s nuclear powered submarines. The Albanese Government has unveiled a major initiative aimed at strengthening Australia’s defence industry, with a focus on the country’s role in the AUKUS security partnership. The newly launched AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy will provide Australian businesses with clearer pathways to participate in a multi-bn dollar, multi-decade effort to build, operate, and maintain conventionally armed, nuclear-powered submarines. The strategy aims to give Australian businesses confidence to invest in their technical capabilities, workforce, and infrastructure by outlining a prioritisation framework for industry participation. To support this, the government has committed $262 m to uplift the local defence sector as part of Australia’s broader nuclear-powered submarine program, announced earlier this year.
Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister, Richard Marles described the initiative as one of the most significant industrial transformations in Australian history.
“This is an opportunity to build a future made in Australia, by Australians, delivering world-leading maritime capability, advanced manufacturing, well-paid skilled jobs, and long-term industry growth. Australian industry will be at the forefront of our conventionally armed, nuclear‑powered submarine program – helping to build, operate and maintain this crucial capability,” the Deputy Prime Minister explained.
The AUKUS initiative is expected to create around 20,000 direct jobs across government and industry over the next three decades. This includes:
* Between 4,000 and 5,500 jobs in South Australia to support submarine construction;
* Up to 4,000 roles dedicated to designing and building infrastructure at Osborne’s submarine construction yard;
* Around 3,000 direct jobs over the next decade for the expansion of HMAS Stirling in Western Australia; and
* A further 3,000 roles for contingency and depot-level maintenance at the Defence Precinct in Henderson once established.
“Our work does not stop here. As a multi-decade, multi-generational undertaking which will create around 20,000 jobs across the country, the Strategy will continue to evolve in line with industry and capability requirements as the AUKUS pathway progresses,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.
To ensure Australia’s industry is ready for this transformation, the strategy focuses on five key areas:
* Providing clarity on industry demand;
* Enhancing investment attractiveness in critical sectors;
* Streamlining regulations;
* Expanding the skilled workforce; and
* Integrating Australian businesses into US and UK supply chains.
The government’s commitment to developing Australian industry—particularly small and medium-sized enterprises—aligns with broader efforts to bolster the country’s sovereign maritime industrial base. This strategy, developed in consultation with industry, unions, and academia, will evolve as Australia’s nuclear-powered submarine program advances.
Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery, Pat Conroy expanded on the Deputy Prime Minister’s comments, saying, “The opportunities presented for Australian industry through our nuclear-powered submarine program are immense, and the Strategy further explains the Australian Government’s commitment to create the opportunities for industry and to support them in accessing them.”
The AUKUS Submarine Industry Strategy forms a key part of the 2024 Naval Shipbuilding and Sustainment Plan and represents a landmark step in Australia’s defence and manufacturing future.
“Australian industry has incredible access to new and unique opportunities beyond our own submarines, now being able to be work with our AUKUS partners and contribute to the sustainment and build of their submarines as we develop a strong, resilient trilateral submarine industrial base. This is our greatest ever industrial undertaking and this strategy will underpin our success,” Minister Conroy said.
AUKUS—an alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States—was established to enhance security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. A key element of this partnership is the development of Australia’s sovereign nuclear-powered submarine capability, which will be supported by extensive industry investment and workforce expansion. (Source: Defence Connect)
03 Mar 25. Singapore to buy new submarines, infantry fighting vehicles and maritime patrol aircraft for the SAF. Singapore plans to procure two new submarines, new infantry fighting vehicles with anti-drone capabilities, and replace its maritime patrol aircraft in the coming years. These hardware upgrades are part of the Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF) plan for a military that is fit for Singapore’s security purposes, especially amid a fast changing global order, said Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen on Feb 3 during the debate on Mindef’s budget. Mindef’s projected expenditure for FY2025 is around $23.4bn, or 12.4 per cent higher than the year before. Dr Ng said this is due to the ministry catching up on projects deferred or disrupted due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and is expected to taper down from FY2026 and keep within 3 per cent of GDP over the next decade. On the submarines, Dr Ng noted that the Republic of Singapore Navy’s (RSN) submarine programme is on track, with all four German custom-made submarines to be operational around 2028. In April 2024, Singapore launched the fourth Invincible-class submarine at the thyssenkrupp Marine Systems shipyard in the German port city of Kiel. But four submarines are not optimal for a submarine fleet, said Dr Ng. This is due to the vessels requiring more rigorous and frequent maintenance cycles as they operate under intense pressure. Operational time is conversely relatively reduced, and is why most navies that operate submarines – such as Australia, Indonesia, and Vietnam – have more than four, he added.
“Having proven that the Invincible-class submarines can perform to expectations in tropical waters, the SAF plans to procure two more, to make up a total of six, as the steady state for our submarine fleet,” he said.
On land, the Army will be fielding a new Infantry Fighting Vehicle. Named the Titan, the new vehicle will be wheeled like the Terrex that is currently in use, but will have significantly enhanced firepower in the form of a 30mm cannon and counter-drone capabilities.
The Army’s High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (Himars) will also be upgraded to integrate newer and more capable rockets.
MINDEF
Meanwhile, the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) will replace its Fokker-50 maritime patrol aircraft, which has been in operation since 1993. Mindef is currently evaluating options that include the Boeing P-8A Poseidon and the Airbus C295, said Dr Ng.
Dr Ng also updated the House that the acquisition of eight more F-35A fighter jets that he announced in 2024 has been confirmed, which will add to the 12 F-35Bs that Singapore had earlier purchased.
“These moves reflect the strength of our defence relationship with the US, and the continued commitment to a multi-decade partnership,” said Dr Ng. “And we thank the US for their support.”
With these added capabilities for air, land, and sea, the SAF as a relatively small military would have transformed itself with state-of-the-art platforms comparable to advanced militaries elsewhere, and be fit for Singapore’s security purposes, said Dr Ng.
Strengthening partnerships
While the Republic must be self-reliant in defence, Dr Ng said Singapore also needs to expand and strengthen its network of friends and partners, where interests align.
This includes historical relationships such as the Five Power Defence Arrangements with Australia, Malaysia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom, which is now in its 54th year, and partnerships with close neighbours such as Indonesia and Malaysia.
Singapore’s defence relations with the United States and China also continue to grow, with high-level exchanges with both countries, he added.
Dr Ng noted that he had co-chaired the Singapore-China Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in May 2024 alongside China’s defence minister Admiral Dong Jun, on the sidelines of the Shangri-La Dialogue.
Dr Ng also spoke at the 11th Xiangshan Forum in Beijing, and had a dialogue with senior People’s Liberation Army (PLA) commanders at the PLA National Defence University (NDU). He also met with Vice Chairman General Zhang Youxia of the Central Military Commission (CMC).
Chaired by President Xi Jinping, the CMC is the highest military decision-making body in China, with operational authority over all its armed forces, while the defence ministry primarily handles China’s defence diplomacy and military exchanges.
“My delegation and I acknowledge and appreciate the privileged access to both Vice Chairman Zhang and the pinnacle commander class at their NDU,” said Dr Ng. “During these meetings, we affirmed the good military-to-military interactions that we have through various exercises, and high-level meetings and plans to step-up further interactions.”
With the US, Singapore is a Major Security Cooperation Partner that has extensive collaborations with its military and the Department of Defence. While the Republic is not a treaty ally, it is plain that military engagements and mutual benefits between both countries have grown over the years, he added.
Dr Ng noted that all the RSAF’s high-end fighting platforms, such as the F-15s and the coming F-35s, are manufactured by and purchased from US companies, alongside other high-end weapon platforms.
“Singapore invests heavily into our own defence and the US appreciates this fact,” he said.
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Noting that President Donald Trump and then-prime minister Lee Hsien Loong had in 2019 renewed a key defence pact which allows American forces to use Singapore’s air and naval bases, Dr Ng said he looked forward to further strengthening defence relations with the US under the current Trump administration.
Separately, Dr Ng said the SAF is making concrete plans to provide medical assistance to the people in Gaza.
While it is not safe to deploy SAF medical facilities in Gaza now, given the high risks to SAF soldiers and civilian volunteers from such a deployment, he said there are other options that include working with Egypt, Jordan and the United Arab Emirates to provide medical care to civilians from Gaza.
Medical teams from the SAF and the Ministry of Health may be able to deploy to such places in the coming months, said Dr Ng.
In sum, Singapore must keep constant its commitment to strengthening its own defence as the world changes, he said.
“We are not a threat to anyone and wish all to be friends. But as the saying goes, strong fences – and I would add defences – make good neighbours,” he said.
While Singapore’s defence budget is expected to keep within 3 per cent of GDP over the next decade, Dr Ng said this is barring any major conflicts or severe economic uncertainty.
“Given the rapid changes in our external environment, I think we will have to continually monitor the situation closely, and if the need arises, we must be prepared to invest more to further strengthen our capabilities,” he said. (Source: News Now/https://www.straitstimes.com/)
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