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15 Jan 25. India completes Nag Mk 2 ATGM trials. India’s state-owned Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has completed field trials of the Nag anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) Mk 2 variant and a new version of the Nag Missile Carrier (NAMICA).
The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on 13 January that the Nag Mk 2 and the NAMICA version 2 underwent three field trials at the Pokhran range in the western state of Rajasthan.
The MoD said the Nag Mk 2 “destroyed precisely all the targets – maximum and minimum range” and that the ATGM is “now ready for induction into the Indian Army”. However, the MoD did not provide any information regarding the range or specifications of the Nag Mk 2.
The Nag Mk 2 is an improved version of the original Nag ATGM, which in 2023 completed testing by the DRDO and approval to be inducted into the Indian Army. In January 2023 the Indian Army’s 17th Mechanised Infantry Regiment also displayed the Nag ATGM during a Republic Day parade indicating the probable induction of the weapon. The NAMICA version 2 is a modified version of the original NAMICA.
The Nag ATGM has been developed by Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and the DRDO. The ATGM is mounted on the NAMICA, a variant of the BMP-2 Sarath infantry fighting vehicle (IFV) transportable by rail and air. The ATGM is tripod-mounted and can be deployed on helicopters as well.
According to Janes Land Warfare Platforms: Firepower, Survivability & Mobility, the Nag ATGM has a maximum range of 4 km. The ATGM features a fire-and-forget guidance system, which integrates an imaging infrared (IIR) seeker for guidance and a tandem high-explosive anti-tank (HEAT) warhead. (Source: Janes)
16 Jan 25. ISTEC selected to provide the Smoke Discharger System (SDS) for the British Army’s new MLRS A2. ISTEC Services Limited is a British company with 35 years of operationally proven experience in the design, manufacture and supply of complex weapon integration solutions and smoke discharger systems (SDS) for military platforms. ISTEC has been selected to provide the SDS for the British Army’s new M270 MLRS A2. At DVD, in September 2024, ISTEC announced the delivery of 65 GPMG gun mounts for MLRS A2 and the combined contract value supplied via the NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) catalogue exceeds £1.5m. ISTEC has a long history of delivering weapon integration solutions for crew-served weapons such as HMG and MMG across Land, Sea and Air domains and has an extensive operational pedigree having supplied gun mounts for key operational vehicles such as WMIK, Mastiff, Viking and Jackal used for Land operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. However, ISTEC has also been providing bespoke platform SDS since 2018 and their systems have been fitted to specialist light strike vehicles so also have an extensive operationally proven pedigree.
An effective SDS is essential to enhance the MLRS A2’s survivability by providing rapid and effective smoke screens to obscure the vehicle from enemy observation and targeting. The smoke can be deployed quickly from under protection to create visual and infrared concealment, disrupting the enemy’s line-of-sight and guidance systems. This protection capability is crucial during manoeuvres in contact, allowing the vehicle to re-position while reducing the risk of being hit.
The new MLRS A2 will be fitted with the ISL 66SD/4 which is a four-barrel vehicle-mounted SDS capable of firing all natures of UK in-service 66mm munitions. However, ISTEC SDS can come in multiple configurations as required by the platform including 2, 3 and 4 barrel setups. The ISL 66SD range has been designed to ensure both the base plate and canister connectors are compatible with the UK in-service 66mm No12 Mk8 smoke discharger (dual pole) to minimise the logistic burden. The system is supplied with the ISTEC Fire Control Unit which has 4 firing buttons, an arming safety cover and NVD compatible colour-coded LED indicators to show the status of each pod.
Adrian Webster, Operations Manager at ISTEC said, “We are extremely pleased to have won this important contract to help equip the UK’s new MLRS A2 platform with the best possible defensive suite of smoke dischargers. Our extensive experience in adapting solutions to meet vehicle geometry and architecture requirements, coupled with our long-standing history with both NSPA and the MLRS platform, makes this an exciting opportunity.” He added, “This project, combined with the weapons mount systems, further enhances the UK’s defence capabilities with cutting-edge technology, supporting national security and the operational effectiveness of the MLRS A2.”
16 Jan 25. US Navy Begins Hypersonic Integration on USS Lyndon B. Johnson. Lyndon B. Johnson will be the second ship in the U.S. Navy to deploy hypersonics amid the service’s efforts to up-gun its Zumwalt-class destroyers with Conventional Prompt Strike. The U.S. Navy announced that the USS Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG-1002) dry-docked at Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Pascagoula Shipyard in Mississippi last Sunday to begin the integration process for Conventional Prompt Strike, making the Zumwalt-class destroyer the second vessel to receive the conventional hypersonic missiles.
“Lyndon B. Johnson (DDG 1002) will be the second ship of the class to receive the large missile vertical launch system and CPS. We’ve extended the combat system activation period by two years to accomplish this installation. The CPS work was placed on contract in August and we dry-docked the ship on Sunday in preparation for land-level production,” Capt. Clint Lawler, Program Manager, Zumwalt-class Destroyer program office, unveiled during a Navy Sea Systems Command presentation at Surface Navy Association 2025.
While USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) and USS Michael Monsoor (DDG-1001) will receive the hypersonic conversion through an additional back fit, lessons from the first project influenced NAVSEA to extend the fitting out period of Lyndon B. Johnson to accommodate CPS. According to Lawler, this will allow the fleet to keep Michael Monsoor in service for learning opportunities while the other two ships in the stealth destroyer class are fitted for the hypersonics.
“The Zumwalt class, with its advanced stealth design and integration of the Conventional Prompt Strike weapons system, will be the Navy’s premier offensive surface combatant, providing sea-based precision capabilities that can effectively engage strategic targets with long-range fires.”
NAVSEA photos detailing hypersonic integration on USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) between January and October of 2024. Photo by author
Also described by Lawler as a “key capability” of Chief of Naval Operations Project 33, a plan to have the U.S. Navy ready for a major conflict in 2027, CPS is envisioned to provide American forces with the ability to “penetrate air defenses to strike high-value, time-sensitive targets.” The Navy will field the missiles on the three Zumwalt-class destroyers and Block V Virginia-class nuclear attack submarines in 2029. U.S. Army Multi-Domain Task Forces will also deploy the system, dubbed Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon and Dark Eagle, in a ground-based role. An Army test last month was sucessfully conducted from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida.
The CPS installation work on Zumwalt lasted between January and October 2024. This project saw the stealthy warship lose one of two Advanced Gun Systems in exchange for four large tubes capable of launching three hypersonic missiles each for a total of 12. Zumwalt hit the water with its upgrades for the first time last month, and the Navy is looking at the destroyer to test CPS in 2027 or 2028. Lyndon B. Johnson is set to be commissioned in 2027, while hypersonic installation work on the Michael Monsoor is slated to begin in 2026. (Source: News Now/NavalNews)
15 Jan 25. RoK starts L-SAM II development. DAPA said it held a meeting to formally launch the L-SAM II project on 15 January. It said the programme will receive investment worth KRW567.7 bn (USD389 m) through 2028.
The programme is led by DAPA subsidiary, the Agency for Defense Development (ADD), and about 19 companies are expected to be involved in its development, DAPA said.
It added that L-SAM II will be capable of intercepting missiles at a higher altitude and at a longer range than the original L-SAM system, the development of which was completed in May 2024. The range of the L-SAM II will be “three–four times compared to L-SAM”, DAPA said.
In April 2023 DAPA approved funding worth KRW2.71 trillion to develop L-SAM II from 2024 to 2035. The capability consists of a gliding-stage interceptor missile that will be intended to counter some of North Korea’s most modern missile systems including new hypersonic weapons and intercontinental ballistic missiles (ICBMs).
L-SAM was developed by ADD and local firm LIG Nex1, with the company scheduled to start producing the system in 2025. Citing LIG Nex1, Janes has previously reported that L-SAM has a range of 150 km and that it is capable of intercepting targets at altitudes between 40 and 100 km.
An L-SAM battery consists of a multifunction radar; a command-and-control centre; a combat control station; and four truck-mounted launchers, two of which are equipped with anti-aircraft and the other two with anti-ballistic missiles. (Source: Janes)
15 Jan 25. The Italian Army has decided to introduce Skynex air defence systems from Rheinmetall. The order to supply a first system worth a total of €73m has now been placed at Rheinmetall Italia S.p.A., Rome. The contract includes an option to supply three additional systems worth €204m. A Skynex system consists of a sensor and tracking unit for air surveillance, a control station as a command-and-control centre and four 35mm firing units. Skynex systems are designed to counter threats from missiles, artillery and mortars, as well as drones and loitering munitions – both for national defence and for the protection of contingents in operational areas.
The scheduled delivery of the pilot system is to be completed during Q2/2026, while three follow-up systems, as option, could be contractualized within 2027. The distribution package includes the appropriate ammunition, training and maintenance services as well as spare parts.
Italy is the first NATO member state to opt for Rheinmetall’s Skynex technology Skynex technology including the Revolver Gun Mk3 35mm. The successful order is thus an important corner stone in Rheinmetall’s strategy of establishing a new standard in the field of cannon-based air defence for international armed forces. NATO member Romania also recently opted for Skynex in combination with another type of gun already in service there (GDF-009 twin guns). Skynex air defence systems are already proving their quality to the Ukrainian armed forces in the harsh conditions of war, protecting people and property from airborne threats.
Rheinmetall is also promisingly positioned in Italy in the field of heavy combat vehicles. Together with its partner company Leonardo, Rheinmetall is expecting large-volume orders to equip the Italian armed forces with combat vehicles, namely the Italian main battle tank (MBT) and the Lynx armored infantry combat system (AICS).
Rheinmetall already has a strong presence in Italy and generates sales of around €1bn with three subsidiaries – including Rheinmetall Italia – and a total of around 1,500 employees at five locations.
The Skynex Air Defence System
Skynex is a cannon-based air defence system and is therefore especially suitable for close-range protection where guided weapons cannot operate effectively. The 35mm Revolver Gun Mk3 cannons have a cadence of 1,000 rounds per minute and a range of up to 4 kilometres. The system uses programmable Ahead ammunition that is resistant to electronic countermeasures and ensures precise target engagement. In terms of cost-effectiveness, the ammunition is significantly more efficient than comparable missile-based systems.
Operational successes in the Ukraine underline the efficiency with which the cannon-based air defence system can defend against air targets – especially cruise missiles and drones.
Skynex is based on the concept of separating the airspace surveillance from the effectors. Italy has opted for the configuration with the XTAR 3D radar from Rheinmetall, which can monitor the airspace in a radius of up to 50 km.
Thanks to its existing modularity, the required resources can be connected to the command-and-control network depending on the mission. Skynex offers great autonomy in terms of sensors and effectors, as to integrating a wide range of modern air defence systems into the system. The only requirement is the presence of a dedicated tracking unit.
In addition to individual sensors and effectors, existing air defence systems such as Rheinmetall’s Skyshield and Skyguard families can also be integrated into the new architecture as firing units. The detected air situation is displayed in a remote command-and-control centre on a map with the sensors and effectors positioned in the field, thus easing a target assignment to the air defence assets connected to the system.
15 Jan 25. Hall & Watts Defence Optics and ARIS Partner to Supply Artillery Sighting Systems to the Italian Army. Hall & Watts Defence Optics, a leader in artillery sighting systems, in partnership with ARIS (Applicazioni Rielaborazioni Impianti Speciali), a renowned Italian company specializing in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of special vehicles and equipment, has been selected by the Italian Ministry of Defence (MOD) to supply up to 54 artillery sighting systems to the Land Forces’ FH70 15mm MLU program.
As 21st-century artillery platforms increasingly adopt advanced digital navigation and fire control systems, ensuring a robust manual backup has become essential for operational continuity. The Italian MOD recognizes this critical need, ensuring their FH70 howitzers are equipped with reliable manual artillery sighting systems as a fail-safe to complement their new digital technologies.
The collaboration between Hall & Watts and ARIS combines decades of expertise in manual sighting systems with ARIS’s extensive experience in vehicle and system upgrades for defense applications. Together, they offer the Italian MOD a comprehensive solution that ensures precision, reliability, and seamless integration with the upgraded artillery platforms.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with ARIS in supporting the Italian Army’s modernization efforts,” said Edward Hoskins, Managing Director of Hall & Watts Defence Optics. “Our sighting systems, combined with ARIS’s integration expertise, will ensure the FH70 howitzers maintain operational readiness, even in the most challenging scenarios.”
ARIS’s MD G.Bellezza added: “Partnering with Hall & Watts on this critical project exemplifies how innovative collaboration can deliver unmatched solutions to modern defense challenges. Together, we are proud to support the Italian MOD’s vision for a modern, resilient artillery force.”
The Italian MOD’s upgrade of their FH70 platforms reflects their commitment to integrating cutting-edge digital systems while ensuring operational safeguards through reliable manual systems. This forward-thinking approach enhances their artillery units’ effectiveness and guarantees mission success in diverse combat scenarios.
About Hall & Watts Defence Optics
Hall & Watts Defence Optics has been a manufacturing military optics and sighting systems for over 50 years. The company’s products are trusted by armed forces worldwide for their accuracy, reliability, and adaptability in demanding operational environments.
About ARIS
Founded in 1946, ARIS (Applicazioni Rielaborazioni Impianti Speciali) specializes in the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of special vehicles and equipment, system upgrades, and vehicle fittings for both military and civil applications. With a strong presence in the defense sector, ARIS is a trusted partner of the Italian Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Interior.
14 Jan 25. Leonardo DRS Awarded $99m Contract to Modernize U.S. Army’s Mortar Fire Control System. Leonardo DRS, Inc. (NASDAQ: DRS) announced today it has been awarded a contract to provide the U.S. Army with next-generation Mortar Fire Control Systems (MFCS). The firm fixed-price IDIQ contract is worth more than $99m. Under the contract, Leonardo DRS is responsible for the production and delivery of fire control systems and fielding services to support mortar Weapons and Fire Control programs.
The MFCS modernizes the U.S. Army’s current mortar fire control capability, linking mortar fires with the digital battlefield. MFCS combines a highly accurate weapon pointing device, an inertial navigation/position system, and a digital communications capability embedded in a rugged fire control computer to create a highly responsive and accurate fire control system. The system allows mortar crews to send and receive digital call for fire messages, determine the pointing and position of the weapon, and calculate ballistic solutions.
“Leonardo DRS is uniquely qualified for this program because of its extensive catalogue of technology and experience in providing advanced, ruggedized and networked computing systems across the U.S. Army inventory,” said Dennis Crumley, senior vice president and general manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit. “We are proud to have been selected for this important contract supporting Army modernization and look forward to partnering with the program offices to support our warfighters with this enhanced next-generation mortar and fire control computing capability,” he said.
Network computing is a key strategic focus for the DRS as it continues to be the leading provider of advanced C5 technologies, enabling increased data and communications needed for targeting, situational awareness and Battle Management Systems (BMS) in multi-domain battlefield operations. The company is investing in the future of C5 for the Department of Defense through the development of the next generation of tactical computing Systems, AI processing solutions and advanced C5ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards/ Sensor Open System Architecture (CMOSS/SOSA) aligned mounted systems – all aimed at enabling future network and platform processing to improve sensor fusion, situational awareness, and reduce the cognitive burden for commanders and crews.
14 Jan 25. Ukraine to be the first to receive RCH 155 artillery system. In total, Ukraine will gain 54 howitzers, the first six systems are scheduled for 2025. Ukraine will be the first nation to deploy the Remote Controlled Howitzer-155 (RCH-155) self-propelled artillery system, developed by the German armaments manufacturer KNDS. Germany’s Defence Minister Boris Pistorius took delivery of the first unit at the KNDS site in Kassel on 13 January 2025, where he passed it on to Ukraine’s Ambassador to Germany, Oleksii Makeiev. In total, Ukraine will gain 54 howitzers, the first six systems are scheduled for 2025. However, the two countries were initally contracted for the delivery of 18 RCH 155s in July 2022, though the order increased in 2023 for a further 36 units. This corresponds to three artillery battalions. This transfer comes nearly a year after the German Armed Forces had begun testing the howitzer. The weapon combines a new development of the Panzerhaubitze (PzH) 2000 L52 gun, with its automated firepower of nine rounds per minute, and a range of 54km+ depending on the ammunition, alongside the armoured protection of a Boxer vehicle. Only two crewmen are needed to operate this long-range artillery system. The support comes even before the Bundeswehr has acquired its own systems, which Makeiev noted, stating “that’s how allies treat each other: they close security gaps, especially when these gaps are bleeding wounds.” This transfer demonstrates the greater sense of European unity and the continental policy of collective defence against Russia. However, it also offers users the chance to see how the system operates sooner. The RCH platform is not unlike other forms of security aid partners have donated, says GlobalData defence analyst James Marques.
“In terms of calibre and ammunition, the RCH is already similar to other artillery given to Ukraine – it’s the PzH 2000 mounted on a wheeled chassis, and with a new remote and automated fire control system. It’s not changing the shape or nature of the artillery fighting, but does what it needs to do a lot faster.” James Marques, GlobalData defence analyst
International partners have already delivered 36 PzH 2000s to Ukraine, of which Germany alone has supplied 25 units.
“It can shoot, move and respond to requests for fire much more efficiently. It’s not changing the shape or nature of the artillery fighting, but does what it needs to do a lot faster. I think this is also a good choice for the UK’s replacement for AS90.”
Other RCH 155 users
Many nations are interested in the system, and a handful already intend to adopt RCH 155. The latter include Germany and the UK, while Switzerland will integrate the RCH Automatic Gun Module to its Piranha IV vehicles.
Notably, the UK ditched its competitive acquisition process in which the South Korean K9A2 artillery system was formerly in the running against the RCH.
However, since the RCH selection in April 2024 the British user has gone back on its claims that the RCH platforms will reach Minimum Deployable Capability by 2029. Currently, the Ministry of Defence have no timeline for platform delivery. (Source: army-technology.com)
13 Jan 25. UK Defence probes industry over FADS capabilities. A new range of maritime threats will shape the solutions embedded in the Future Air Dominance System (FADS). The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) issued a Request for Information (RfI) in mid-December 2024 to gain a clearer understanding of the current maritime capabilities available for its Future Air Dominance System (FADS) programme.
Speaking with suppliers, the government aims to flesh out FADS through numerous one-to-one sessions in its second market engagement event over three days at the end of Janaury 2025.
At present, the MoD suggests that this Integrated Air and Missile Defence (IAMD) concept will employ a ‘system-of systems’ approach, combining various diasggregated sensors and effectors in the battlespace.
Besides naval aircraft, weapons, and emerging uncrewed systems, at the centre of this integrated network are the future Type 83 destroyers that are scheduled to replace the Royal Navy’s six existing Type 45 warships in the late 2030s.
In particular, the RfI also points to innovation in Long Range Precision Strike (LRPS) capabilities to overcome “the hardest of targets in air, land, and maritime domains.”
Armed to the teeth
A new range of maritime threats faced over the past few years will doubtless shape the solutions embedded in the FADS. However, it must be noted that the Type 83 destroyer is in a pre-conceptual stage so any solutions are speculative.
Nevertheless, William Freer, National Security fellow at the Council on Geostrategy, a think tank, observes growing threats from various aerial weapons.
“Warships over the last two decades were operating in a relatively benign environment and were equipped to do so. This is no longer the case.” William Freer, Council on Geostrategy.
“The maritime component of FADS will have to contend with small but growing numbers of hypersonic missiles, the proliferation of anti-ship ballistic missiles, the potential of large saturation attacks by cruise missiles, as well as the potential of drone swarms,” he observed.
“One thing is becoming clear, warships over the last two decades were operating in a relatively benign environment and were equipped to do so. This is no longer the case. But the Royal Navy has not been sitting still.
“Although developing shipborne ballistic missile defences (BMD) has been slow, the missile defences will be significantly upgraded in the coming years,” suggested Freer.
By the end of the decade Type 45 destroyers should each receive an extra 24 missile cells (taking the total to 72) as well as BMD capability.
Depending on how the Type 26’s Mk41 VLS cells are loaded it could carry more than double the missiles (and a greater variety of missiles) than the current Type 23.
It has also been decided that the Type 31 will be equipped with up to 32 Mk41 cells instead of the original plan of just eight cells for Sea Ceptor missiles.
Red Sea crisis
Nowhere are these threats more prevalent than in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
In 2023-4, the Type 45 destroyer HMS Diamond and Type 23 frigate HMS Richmond, have respectively operated in the Red Sea as part of an allied force under Operation Prosperity Guardian to defend maritime shipping against Houthi strikes in the crucial chokepoint.
There is a considerable cost gap between Sea Viper/Ceptor and attritable uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). For that reason, the Royal Navy has made good progress with a cheaper counter-UAS solution with its development of a directed-energy weapon system, DragonFire, which will be fielded by 2027.
While the programme cost the MoD £100m ($125m), the government noted after the success of its demonstrator that the cost of operating the weapon is typically less than £10 per shot.
What will the surface fleet look like?
Recent research suggests that the Royal Navy will need to determine how it will disperse its capabilities across the surface fleet, especially when it comes to deciding what platform will take on the role of a ‘radar picket’ to get the most efficient response times against aerial threats.
However, this must also be considered within the context of a reduced force structure. Due to the decommissioning of several ships in 2024 and the capability gaps to come, the Royal Navy will be operating a more nimble service with ships operating a persistent forward presence around the world.
While little can be said about Type 83, major decisions regarding other surface fleet programmes are expected to come in the spring with the release of the all-encompassing Strategic Defence Review according to the Minister of Defence Procurement, Maria Eagle, in a parliamentary written response on 9 January 2025. (Source: naval-technology.com)
19 Dec 24. 713285451 – Future Air Dominance System (FADS) – RFI – Market Engagement.
Ministry of Defence
Published date: 19 December 2024
Last edited date: 19 December 2024
Open early engagement – This means that a procurement idea is currently active, it is in the early stage of development and judging interest from potential suppliers.
Contract summary
Industry
- Warships – 35510000
Location of contract BS34 8JH
Procurement reference tender_473601/1436909
Published date 19 December 2024
Closing date 17 January 2025
Contract is suitable for SMEs? Yes
Contract is suitable for VCSEs? No
Description
The Future Air Dominance System (FADS) Team within Defence Equipment & Support (DE&S), part of the UK Ministry of Defence (“the Authority”) is seeking to engage with suppliers for the purposes of gaining a clearer understanding of current market capabilities and potential offerings which may be relevant to FADS.
FADS is a transformative multi-domain programme that will provide Maritime Integrated Air and Missile Defence (M-IAMD) against the toughest of threats in the air and space domain, and Long-Range Precision Strike (LRPS) against the hardest of targets in air, land, and maritime domains. The FADS programme will align itself with a ‘system of systems’ approach and brigade around the themes of; SENSE, DECIDE, EFFECT, CONNECT, HOST and ENABLE.
FADS will deliver Air Defence of the Carrier Strike Group and Littoral Strike Group from the mid-2030s; a role currently being provided primarily by the Royal Navy’s Type 45 Destroyers.
Following the issuance of a Prior Information Notice (PIN), dated 18 November 2024 (Ref. 2024/S 000-037234), the Authority would like to sincerely thank all suppliers who have expressed an interest in the FADS programme. If you attended the brief on 03 December and would like to provide some feedback, the Authority would be grateful if you could complete the questionnaire linked here
https://forms.office.com/e/9K96GW0B7g
– to provide feedback that will help us improve how we engage with you in the future.
The slide pack shared at the brief is available for viewing via AWARD. To access the documentation, interested suppliers will have to register to AWARD and pass necessary checks in a security gateway. To register, please follow this link – https://award.commercedecisions.com/dsp/web/project/c681dabd-6f69-4130-a815-9a82d6902ca3/register
– and follow the instructions when prompted.
This second notice serves to provide further information regarding the next Market Engagement Event 2 (MEE2): One to Ones.
These sessions will be held on 28, 29 and 30 January 2025.
Previous notice about this procurement
713285451 – Future Air Dominance System (FADS) – RFI – Market Engagement
- Early engagement
- Published 19 December 2024
Attachments
- 20241219_FADS- MEE2- RFI_O.pdf
- n/a
About the buyer
Address
Ministry of Defence, Defence Equipment and Support
Bristol
BS34 8JH
England
(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
07 Nov 24. 712372454- UK DEFENSIVE AIDS SYSTEM – VTN
Ministry of Defence
Published date: 7 November 2024
Open opportunity – This means that the contract is currently active, and the buying department is looking for potential suppliers to fulfil the contract.
Contract summary
Industry
- Electronic warfare systems and counter measures – 35730000
Location of contract
Any region
Value of contract £100,000,000
Procurement reference tender_457248/1423024
Published date 7 November 2024
Closing date 31 March 2025
Closing time 12pm
Contract start date 30 June 2025
Contract end date 30 June 2028
Contract type Supply contract
Procedure type Single tender action (below threshold)
What is a single tender action (below threshold)?
Contract is suitable for SMEs? No
Contract is suitable for VCSEs? No
Description
VOLUNTARY TRANSPARENCY NOTICE (VTN) TO PLACE A SINGLE SOURCE CONTRACT FOR UK DEFENSIVE AIDS SYSTEMS (DAS) PROCURE, SUSTAIN AND ENHANCE (PSE
Air Platform Systems Delivery Team (APS DT), part of the Ministry of Defence (“the Authority”), intends to place a three (3) year contract with Leonardo UK Ltd (LUK) for the procurement of LUK supplied Defensive Aids Systems (DAS) hardware, software, ancillaries and a train-the-trainer service for users and maintainers. This contract will also include in-service support for the hardware in the form of maintenance, technical engineering, software support, training, and associated software updates. Additionally, LUK, as the Design Organisation (DO), will be responsible for a programme of enhancements covering hardware/software modifications to the DAS design to allow it to meet evolving threats. These enhancements may include the integration of additional subsystems to the DAS. UK DAS is essential for the provision of critical operational capability to Defence.
The Authority intends to include further options to the contract to allow for the extension of contract duration by up to an additional two (2) years in the form of two (2) twelve (12) month extensions.
The Authority has determined this single source contract is excluded from Defence and Security Public Contracts Regulations 2011 under Regulation7(1)(a) in conjunction with Regulation 6(3A) (a). In addition, a “Warlike Stores” exemption under regulation 6(3A) (b) applies.
About the buyer
Address
MOD Abbey Wood, BS34 8JH,
Bristol
BS34 8JH
England
(Source: https://www.gov.uk/)
13 Jan 25. Nammo and JUNGHANS Defence announce strategic partnership for advanced 30mm ammunition. Nammo, a leading global provider of specialised ammunition and rocket propulsion systems, has entered into a strategic partnership with JUNGHANS Defence, a renowned expert in fuze technology. The collaboration aims to develop cutting-edge 30mm medium-calibre ammunition with integrated proximity fuzes, enhancing precision and effectiveness in modern defence applications. The agreement was signed on 9 January 2025 in Raufoss, Norway, by Nammo Executive Vice President Vegard Sande and JUNGHANS Defence CEO Dr Kim Eduard Lioe. The partnership combines Nammo’s expertise in ammunition development with JUNGHANS Defence’s advanced fuze technologies to deliver high-performance solutions for air defence and drone countermeasures. The new 30mm ammunition will leverage advanced proximity fuze technology to improve accuracy and operational efficiency. This innovation addresses the growing demand for cost-effective and reliable defence capabilities against drones and other threats in increasingly complex operational environments. Both companies expressed optimism about the partnership. JUNGHANS Defence highlighted the dedication of both teams in achieving this milestone agreement, which promises to optimise the synergy between ammunition and fuze systems. Nammo, headquartered in Raufoss, Norway, operates across 27 production sites in 11 countries and employs over 3,600 personnel. JUNGHANS Defence, rooted in precision mechanical engineering from its origins as a watch factory, continues to set benchmarks in fuze safety and innovation. (Source: Google/https://defence-industry.eu/)
13 Jan 25. Oshkosh Defense Advances Next-Gen Autonomous Technology for ROGUE-Fires. Oshkosh Defense LLC, an Oshkosh Corporation [NYSE: OSK] business, was awarded a $29.9m contract modification to integrate next-generation autonomous technology into the Remotely Operated Ground Unit for Expeditionary Fires (ROGUE-Fires) with deliveries beginning in 2025. This award from the Marine Corps Systems Command reflects Oshkosh’s commitment to delivering advanced solutions that enhance operational capabilities and align with the Marine Corps’ mission to seize and defend key maritime terrain. Oshkosh will execute the award with ground-based autonomy partner, Forterra. ROGUE-Fires enhances the Marine Corps’ sea denial capabilities by furthering multi-domain dominance against adversaries and rapid expeditionary employment of Marine forces. The advanced self-driving technology of ROGUE-Fires provides the Marine Corps with increased flexibility, scalability and resilience in contested environments. By reducing the need for human driving in high-risk combat environments, this technology enhances battlefield lethality critical to success in the United States Indo-Pacific Command.
“Through our trusted partnership with the Marine Corps and collaboration with industry leaders like Forterra, Oshkosh Defense remains committed to equipping the U.S. Marine Corps with advanced solutions that establish dominance across all domains,” said Pat Williams, chief programs officer at Oshkosh Defense. “ROGUE-Fires not only enhances mission flexibility and lethality but also directly supports the USMC’s modernization priorities, including sea denial capabilities, innovative formations, and optimized force design to meet evolving threats.”
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This award underscores Oshkosh Defense’s strategic partnership with Forterra, leveraging cutting-edge autonomous technology integrated with existing platforms, to achieve unparalleled interoperability while advancing Force Design 2030 objectives. This collaboration reflects Oshkosh’s commitment to equipping Marines with innovative solutions that outpace evolving threats and secure mission success in the most challenging environments. (Source: ASD Network)
07 Jan 25. US Army to award nearly USD5bn PrSM Inc 1 follow-on. Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control will build the next lots of early operational capability (EOC) Precision Strike Missiles Increment 1 (PrSM Inc 1), according to a US Army notice on 6 January. The indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity award could be worth up to USD4.9bn, according to the notice. The contract is to produce approximately 634 PrSM surface-to-surface missiles, according to a sources sought notice released in May 2024. Launched from a M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) or M270A2 Multiple Launch Rocket System, the PrSM munition has a threshold range of 400 km and may have achieved greater than 450 km in range. It replaces the Army Tactical Missile System (ATACMS), which the US has sent to aid Ukraine. Officials have said they would increase the pace of PrSM deliveries depending on how many ATACMSs were used in Ukraine. Strategic and Operational Rockets and Missiles (STORM) – inside of Program Executive Office Missiles and Space – oversees PrSM, including future increments. Currently, there are four additional increments in development. They include a seeker for sea-based targets and one with an increased range. The munitions will be employed by the army’s Multi-Domain Task Forces (MDTFs), a new unit that will take charge of several of the emerging precision-strike technologies. (Source: Janes)
08 Jan 25. Erdogan doubles range of Türkiye’s ballistic missile programme. Türkiye is developing a missile with a range of 2,000 km, President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan said in a televised speech on 6 January. This is twice the range he has previously given for his country’s missile programme.
“We have decided to both strengthen our missile stock with a range of 800 km and above and to accelerate our missile development programme with a range of 2,000 km and above,” he said in a part of a speech listing major achievements made by the Turkish defence industry in 2024.
Erdoğan previously said Türkiye was working on a missile with a range of 1,000 km. “The range of the Tayfun missile was announced as 560 km; we do not find even 560 [km] sufficient. I had a meeting last week. I asked what the final situation was, [and] they said we will reach 1,000 km,” he said in an 18 December 2022 speech.
Erdoğan noted the previous month that the Tayfun ballistic missile being developed by Roketsan had achieved a range of 561 km and said a missile called the Cenk was being developed alongside the Gezgin, which is a long-range cruise missile. A test of the Tayfun ballistic missile was publicised for the first time on 18 October 2022, when a video was released showing a twin launcher firing a missile westwards from Rize-Artvin Airport on Türkiye’s Black Sea coast. Roketsan announced what it said was a second Tayfun test on 23 May 2023, releasing a video showing a missile being launched from the same location. (Source: Janes)
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About Galvion:
Galvion designs, develops, and delivers mission critical head, face, and torso protective solutions as well as intelligent power and data management systems for the world’s most demanding military and tactical teams. Founded in 2002 as Revision Military, a foundational belief in calculated investment and capability expansion led to a strategic refocus, resulting in the divestiture of the protective eyewear business, along with the Revision name, in 2019. Rebranded as Galvion, the company’s products and technology continue to evolve beyond purely passive protection, focusing instead on active systems that enhance performance and survivability, with an eye to the ever-changing demands of the modern battlefield. Through advanced design, keen end-user insight and intelligent integration, Galvion engineers uniquely customized solutions that go beyond what was once thought possible.
Privately owned with ISO 9001:2015 certified facilities in Vermont, Massachusetts and New Hampshire in the US, Montreal in Canada and Bristol in the UK, Galvion’s team of 400+ employees work proactively to solve the problems left unsolved by others.
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