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UNITED KINGDOM AND NATO
18 Feb 26. UK outlines steps to speed up Type 31 frigate build. The Ministry of Defence has outlined measures it says are helping to accelerate delivery of the Royal Navy’s Type 31 frigates, including major investment in Babcock’s Rosyth shipyard and the creation of a new integration facility to reduce risk on the programme. Responding to a written parliamentary question from Liberal Democrat MP James MacCleary, Defence Minister Luke Pollard said progress was being made on the Type 31 programme through “substantial investment” in Rosyth, where the ships are being built. Pollard said the work includes “digitising the shipyard, new manufacturing facilities and a new purpose-built Assembly Hall that enables two T31s to be built simultaneously.” He added that the MOD has also established a new Shore Integration Facility at Portsdown Technology Park, intended to support the integration of the ships’ combat systems and reduce risk before equipment is installed on the vessels. According to Pollard, the facility is designed “to mitigate risks to the integration of the combat system.” The minister said the MOD continues to work closely with Babcock as the prime contractor to ensure the programme meets requirements and delivers value for money, stating that officials are working to ensure the Type 31 programme delivers capability “at a value for money price, in a timescale that is competitive with other international warship procurement programmes.” The Type 31 frigate, officially known as the Inspiration-class, is designed to provide the Royal Navy with a flexible general purpose warship able to operate globally across a wide range of tasks, including maritime security, escort operations, forward presence missions, and defence engagement. The class is based on Babcock’s Arrowhead 140 design, itself derived from the Danish Iver Huitfeldt-class, and is intended to deliver a capable platform at a lower unit cost than more complex specialist warships such as the Type 26. Each ship is expected to displace around 5,700 tonnes and will be built around a modular design approach intended to support future upgrades over its service life. The frigates will be equipped with a Mk41 Vertical Launch System for missiles, a medium calibre main gun, and a mission bay capable of supporting additional payloads, boats, and unmanned systems, as well as a flight deck and hangar designed to operate a Merlin helicopter and support aviation operations. (Source: News Now/https://ukdefencejournal.org.uk/)
EUROPE
19 Feb 26. Germany seeks more F-35 jets as European fighter program falters, sources say.
- Summary
- Germany and France may abandon joint fighter jet project FCAS
- German F-35 purchase would follow 2022 order for 35 jets
- Move would buy Germany time to find an alternative to FCAS jet
Germany is considering ordering more U.S.-made F-35 fighter jets, two sources told Reuters, a move that would deepen Berlin’s reliance on American military technology as its joint next-generation fighter program with France falters. One source said Berlin was in talks that could lead to the purchase of more than 35 additional jets. A second source did not specify the number. Both sources cautioned the outcome was still uncertain. In 2022, Germany purchased 35 of the aircraft, which are due to begin delivery later this year. The potential acquisition of more Lockheed Martin (LMT.N) stealth fighters, at a cost of more than $80 m each, comes as Germany and France are deadlocked on their Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program. The 100-bn-euro-project, launched in 2017 to replace France’s Rafales and Eurofighters from 2040, has been stalled by industrial rivalries. Insiders expect Germany and France to abandon the development of a joint fighter jet but continue cooperation on drones and the so-called combat cloud, the digital backbone linking manned and unmanned platforms within the FCAS system. Purchasing more F-35 jets would buy Germany time to figure out a solution for the development of a sixth-generation fighter jet and finding a partner for such a project. Germany’s Defence Ministry did not immediately comment while a Pentagon spokesperson referred questions to Germany. A spokesperson for defence contractor Lockheed Martin (LMT.N) said the company was focused on building F-35s already ordered by Germany. Expansion of Germany’s F-35 fleet would mark a significant strategic shift toward deeper military integration with the United States and away from European defence autonomy, a priority for fellow European Union member France. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz questioned on Wednesday whether developing a manned sixth-generation jet, as FCAS has sought to do, still made sense for his country’s air force.
“Will we still need a manned fighter jet in 20 years’ time? Do we still need it, given that we will have to develop it at great expense?” Merz said on the Machtwechsel podcast published on Wednesday.
The F-35 aircraft will succeed the Tornado jets in their role of carrying U.S. nuclear bombs stored in Germany in the event of a conflict. The F-35 is the only Western fighter jet certified to carry the most modern B61 nuclear bombs. German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius said last week the fate of FCAS would become clear within days. (Source: Reuters)
USA
18 Feb 26. US Navy seek vessel construction manager for new LSM programme. The chosen VCM will manage initial LSM construction at Bollinger Shipyards and Fincantieri Marinette Marine. The US Navy has released a Request for Proposal (RFP) seeking a Vessel Construction Manager (VCM) to supervise the procurement and construction of its new Medium Landing Ship (LSM) fleet. The Navy expects to award the contract in mid-2026. Under the acquisition plan, the selected VCM will oversee initial LSM production at two sites, namely Bollinger Shipyards and Fincantieri Marinette Marine. Bollinger Shipyards under a contract awarded in September 2025, will play a role in LSM long lead time procurement and engineering design, while Fincantieri Marinette Marine will be responsible for constructing four vessels. The VCM will determine the allocation strategy for the remaining three ships authorised under the base contract. In addition, the VCM will act as the primary contractor with the Navy, issuing and managing subcontracts directly with the shipyards. This direct contractual control is intended to streamline project oversight, and combined with a standardised design, aims to address cost and schedule risks. US Navy ships programme executive officer rear admiral Brian Metcalf said: “The VCM approach not only accelerates construction timelines but also strengthens our industrial base by engaging multiple shipyards.
“By providing a mature, ‘build-to-print’ design and empowering a VCM to manage production, we are streamlining oversight for this acquisition. This approach accelerates the timeline and strengthens our industrial base, ensuring we have the capacity and expertise needed for sustained maritime advantage.”
The acquisition strategy represents a shift from traditional Navy contracting and oversight practices in shipbuilding. The VCM will coordinate all phases of LSM construction, from design through delivery and post-delivery support, across several shipyards concurrently, utilising commercial shipbuilding procedures and requiring fewer Navy personnel than previous programmes. The Navy will supply a mature vessel design in a “build-to-print” format to reduce technical challenges and scheduling uncertainties. In December 2025, the Navy and Marine Corps jointly identified Damen Naval’s LST 100 as the baseline model for the LSM programme. The LSM is intended to bridge the operational gap between short-range landing craft and larger amphibious warfare vessels. The new ships will support Marine Corps operations by providing littoral mobility in contested areas and are expected to form a fleet of 35 vessels aimed at increasing agility in expeditionary logistics and distributed manoeuvre. In December last year, the US Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA) selected Damen Shipyards Group’s Landing Ship Transport (LST)100 design for its LSM programme.(Source: naval-technology.com)
18 Feb 26. DOD eyes commercial satellites that can spy on other satellites. The Pentagon is looking for cheap commercial satellites that can maintain surveillance on other satellites in orbit, including close-range inspections, according to a Defense Innovation Unit solicitation published Tuesday. The Geosynchronous High-Resolution Optical Space-Based Tactical Reconnaissance project — also referred to as “Ghost Recon” (as in the Tom Clancy novels and video games) — is intended to address a vulnerability in America’s space-monitoring capabilities. The problem is that DOD “lacks sufficient satellites capable of providing high-resolution space-to-space imagery and maintaining custody of both friendly and adversarial satellites in geosynchronous orbit (GEO),” according to the solicitation. Hence, the Pentagon is looking for commercial satellites that can be launched within two years after the contract begins. Within three years, those satellites would become government owned and operated. Within four years, they will have to demonstrate the ability to “perform at least one drive-by (Sub or Super Sync) or an inclined track design reference mission (DRM) per week through the first year of government operations,” the solicitation states. The goal is relatively inexpensive and scalable designs, including space vehicles, satellite buses and payloads that offer “high-resolution space-to-space imagery and accurate object characterization,” DIU said.
“These systems must reduce costs compared to existing and planned programs of record while achieving high-resolution image collection, allowing for increased collection frequency and detailed characterization of resident space objects (RSOs) in GEO. The successful deployment of these capabilities will significantly improve GEO RSO Characterization, Battle Damage Assessment (BDA), Positive Identification (PID), and Combat Identification (CID),” the solicitation notes.
DIU envisions a spacecraft that can move close to other satellites. The result would be “fully resolved imagery of an ESPA Grande-sized spacecraft and its key subsystems (i.e. star tracker, communications payload, mission payload) from a distance of no closer than 10 kilometers,” according to the solicitation. Ghost Recon satellites would also need to maneuver above or below GEO altitude to maximize solar lighting of the target. Interestingly, DIU suggests satellites from other nations may be less than cooperative when it comes to having their picture taken, such as moving away from American space vehicles. The solicitation cites the possibility of using “several [space vehicles] to support collection of tasked RSO, [which are] used to support collection for uncooperative RSOs.” While Ghost Recon satellites would mainly track space objects that have already been detected, they may have to search for targets themselves, including “detection and localization of untracked or non-cooperative RSOs,” according to the solicitation. Contractors are asked to detail the capabilities of their designs, including the cost for a Ghost Recon satellite to revisit another space object every 30 days for 10 years. Companies must also specify slew rate, mission payload angular resolution and modular transfer function.Minimum requirements include the ability to “successfully perform rendezvous and proximity operations,” according to the solicitation. Satellites must also be capable of operating for at least three years in GEO, meet National Security Space Launch medium and large standards for launch integration, and use Unified S-Band protocols. Though DIU wants affordable spacecraft that can be deployed within two years, the solution mentions the possibility of refueling these platforms “to extend spacecraft lifespan, increase maneuverability for follow-on missions, and reduce replacement cadence.” The project deadline is March 3. (Source: Defense News)
13 Feb 26. Pentagon wants counter-drone sensors to protect US infrastructure — and fast. The Pentagon wants sensors that can detect small drones threatening military installations across the United States. And it wants them fast.
“Due to the urgency of the threat and the need to assess capability readiness,” the Defense Innovation Unit needs products in time for a spring 2026 demonstration a Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, according to a DIU solicitation. Invited companies may have 30 days or less between notification and execution of the demonstration,” the solicitation adds.
The project, titled “Counter UAS Sensing for Homeland and Mobile Defense,” seems aimed at both civil defense and battlefield protection. The first track is protection of installations in the U.S. In this case, the sensors must detect Group 1 UAVs — the smallest category, weighing less than 20 pounds — at a minimum range of 2 kilometers. A secondary attribute is the ability to spot Group 2 and 3 drones, or those weighing less than 1,320 pounds. Sensors should also be able to screen out ground clutter and birds, according to the request.
“Solutions may employ single or multimodal sensing to enhance the radar solution, however the solution must include a radar sensor as part of the total proposal,” the DIU solicitation states.
The goal appears to be deploying sensors that can be used for both detection and destruction of drones, including “rapid integration capability with government designated CUAS fire control systems.” The solicitation did not specify whether this would involve protecting military or civilian sites. However, it did state that systems must “operate safely near populated areas, within congested airspace, and across complex electromagnetic environments dominated by lawful emitters.” The DIU project’s second track aims to provide mobile counter-drone sensors for small military units that are on the move. Equally important, these sensors themselves have to avoid being detected and targeted by enemy fire, which has been a problem for electronic warfare emitters in the Ukraine war.
“The solution’s ability to deliver early warning, allowing units to take protective action, is critical and depends upon a low physical and spectral signature to prevent targeting by enemy forces,” said DIU. “All sensing modalities are welcome, with preference for passive approaches.”
Sensors must detect Group 1 and 2 drones flying below 50 meters. Other desired attributes include multiple and redundant sensors, minimal setup time and “broadspectrum RF [radio frequency] sensing (e.g., approximately 400 MHz–8 GHz) for passive solutions, including adaptability to evolving UAS data links.” DIU is also looking for robust systems that troops can maintain themselves.
“The system must reduce operator burden with intuitive controls for detection, tracking, and alert management,” the solicitation said. “It must be configurable and adaptable by tactical operators to the dynamic front-line RF environment without requiring support from engineering personnel.”
Interestingly, these C-UAS sensors seem aimed more at trucks and light vehicles than armored vehicles. The system, the solicitation states, must be capable of being mounted on the Infantry Squad Vehicle, Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, Family of Medium Tactical Vehicles and the Heavy Expanded Mobility Tactical Truck. (Source: Defense News)
12 Feb 26. Leidos (NYSE: LDOS) is accelerating the migration of eight additional Defense Agencies and Field Activities to DODNet, the Defense Information Systems Agency’s (DISA) modern network environment. Building on the successful transition of five agencies this year, this effort will help DISA enhance user experience and advance Zero Trust compliance while bolstering mission readiness. Over the next 18 months, Leidos is expected to transition more than 100,000 users to DODNet including the Defense Finance and Accounting Service, Defense Logistics Agency, Defense Manpower Data Center, Defense Media Activity, Defense Threat Reduction Agency, and Missile Defense Agency. This next phase of accelerated migration marks a significant step forward in the $11.5 bn, 10-year Defense Enclave Services program.
“Launching the next phase of transformation means executing faster, more seamless migrations to DODNet and advancing the Department of War’s goal to achieve greater savings and efficiencies through enterprise IT consolidation,” said Heidi VanNoy, vice president and division manager at Leidos. “This accelerated effort will help defense agencies realize the full potential of a unified and resilient network, strengthening security, data access and mission outcomes.”
Leidos has been leading operations for the DODNet program since February 2022, consolidating 26 separate networks and 12 help desks into a single, optimized environment. Digital modernization and cyber solutions are key elements of the company’s NorthStar 2030 growth strategy. (Source: PR Newswire)
16 Feb 26. US defence department seeks C-UAS for Spring 2026 demonstration. The United States defence department, through the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), is seeking counter-uncrewed aerial systems (C-UAS) products for a Spring 2026 test at Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona. Proposed solutions are organised into two Lines of Effort (LOE). LOE 1 solutions are intended to establish a persistent, high‑fidelity protective sensing layer over fixed installations within the United States. The solicitation calls for systems that will operate safely near populated areas, within congested airspace and across complex electromagnetic environments dominated by lawful emitters. The intended application includes replacement or augmentation of legacy fixed‑site sensing systems. Solutions may employ single or multi‑modal sensing to enhance the radar solution, however the solution must include a radar sensor as part of the total proposal. LOE 1 solutions must be able to consistently detect and track all Group 1 UAS types at ranges of 2 km or greater. Autonomous classification of detected tracks, distinguishing small UAS from non‑UAS objects is required, as is effective discrimination of biological clutter, ground clutter and false tracks to maintain a clean air picture. Systems should provide simultaneous detection and tracking of multiple UAS threats. They should also be capable of being rapidly integrated with government-designated C-UAS fire control systems. Additional, secondary capabilities are also desired and include the capability to detect, track and classify Group 2 and Group 3 UAS with actionable data on threat disposition. The second LOE solutions are intended to provide small units with resilient, mobile sensing capabilities while stationary and on the move. LOE 2 systems must function in GNSS‑denied or degraded environments and maintain low physical and spectral signatures to support survivability in contested battlespaces. “The solution’s ability to deliver early warning, allowing units to take protective action, is critical and depends upon a low physical and spectral signature to prevent targeting by enemy forces,” the solicitation states. All sensing modalities are welcome, with a preference for passive approaches. LOE 2 solutions should be able to rapidly adapt to evolving threats. The preference is for solutions with reduced set-up for initial operation including calibration time, reconfiguration time, mean time between failures and efficient operator level repairs. Simultaneous detection and tracking of multiple UAS threats is required and systems must discriminate from biological and ground clutter to maintain a usable air picture. Teaming is encouraged and the government may seek to team companies with AI/ML solutions with companies that are integrators in the C-UAS technology space or request collaboration between two or more solutions. Responses are due by February 26, 2026. (Source: www.unmannedairspace.info)
REST OF THE WORLD
18 Feb 26. Australia seeks venture capital partners to co-invest in Australia’s defence innovation. Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy has moved to unlock new sources of private capital for the nation’s defence industry, calling for proposals from the venture capital market to co-invest in Australian companies developing next-generation defence and dual-use technologies. In a move aimed at accelerating sovereign industrial capability, the Australian government has opened a request for expressions of interest (REOI) seeking one or more private capital partners to help channel investment into Australia’s growing defence innovation ecosystem. The initiative comes as the Albanese government continues to lift defence spending and deliver record investment in domestic industry, as part of a broader effort to strengthen Australia’s ability to design, build and sustain critical capabilities at home. Under the proposal, the government is considering co-contributions of up to $500 m, to be invested alongside private capital into Australian businesses developing advanced and export-ready technologies. Final investment decisions and terms would be determined in partnership with the selected fund manager or managers and remain subject to further government consideration.
Minister Conroy said the move recognised the strategic importance of mobilising private capital in an increasingly contested global environment, saying, “Australia’s current strategic environment tells us that we need to do all we can to drive investment in new capabilities. Joint investment between the government and private sector has enormous potential to unlock Australian jobs and innovation.”
Targeted capability areas include cyber security, artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, electronic warfare, quantum technologies and undersea warfare – all seen as critical to Australia’s future military edge and increasingly central to allied defence supply chains.
Defence officials said investing in advanced capabilities with export potential is key to building a larger, more resilient defence industrial base. By backing Australian firms early, the government aims to grow local supply chains, support high-skill jobs and reduce dependence on overseas suppliers in strategically sensitive areas. The REOI is now open via AusTender, with interested private capital firms invited to submit proposals outlining how they would manage and deploy the co-investment funding. Once selected, successful firms will work closely with Defence to further develop an investment proposal for government consideration, including governance arrangements, investment focus areas and mechanisms to support Australian small and medium enterprises.
Minister Conroy added, “In developing potential options for co-investment, the government is looking for ways to grow Australia’s defence industry and put money back into Australian pockets. The government will explore options to partner with private capital to invest in eligible Australian small and medium enterprises that are developing the capabilities we need.”
The initiative directly reflects commitments made in the Defence Industry Development Strategy 2024, which emphasises deeper collaboration with venture capital and institutional investors to scale Australian businesses developing critical defence technologies. (Source: Defence Connect)
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Since 1946, Industrial Electronic Engineers, IEE, has specialized in the design, test, support and fielding of display products for use in demanding military and aerospace applications throughout the world. IEE has developed an extensive product portfolio that today includes enhanced flat panel displays, smart displays and handheld devices.
From rapid prototyping of custom designs to full-scale production runs, IEE, produces displays with advanced features like low-latency video processing, high-bright and NVIS backlighting, and lightweight rugged enclosures. Their SWaP-C products employ the latest lightweight composite materials; low power, high performance integrated ARM processors; standard Ethernet and USB communication, in a low cost, highly producible design.
In-house California facilities include optical bonding, clean rooms for display assembly, a dark room for optical measurements and environmental chambers for pre-compliance and customer acceptance testing. On-site manufacturing includes PCB assembly and flow soldering. IEE has manufactured handheld, in-vehicle, airborne and naval LCD displays for all military branches as well as leading aerospace firms both domestically and internationally.
IEE is ISO 9001:2015 and AS9100D certified.
IEE’s Advantage:
- Direct control of critical process steps that reduce cost, decrease production lead times and improves life-cycle management
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- Leading the next generation avionics efficiencies by leveraging open architectures and common software standards
- Field-proven, pre-engineered displays minimize lead-time and non-recurring engineering costs.
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