Sponsored by Galvion
www.galvion.com
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28 Aug 25. Galvion celebrates significant head system sales with over 1.25 m helmets ordered by NATO and allied customers. Galvion, a world leader in the design and manufacture of innovative head systems, power and data management solutions, and integrated soldier systems, is celebrating the success of its Batlskin® head systems across NATO and allied nations with over 1.25 m helmets having been ordered in the last 10 years. Within that number, to date, over 150,000 Caiman® helmets have been shipped under the long-term NATO framework contract, establishing its flagship Caiman® helmet as the head system of choice for key European NATO members, and reinforcing Galvion’s position as a trusted partner in the delivery of modern, scalable protective headgear. This announcement comes in advance MSPO taking place in Poland, 2-5 September (booth 1-D02) and DSEI taking place in London, 9-12 September (booth N2-420). This achievement reflects ongoing global demand for Galvion’s integrated helmet systems and adds to a series of contract successes. Notable recent awards include the U.S. Marine Corps Integrated Helmet System (IHS) contract, built on Galvion’s Hellbender™ platform, follow-on orders for the Caiman helmet under Canada’s DICE program, and a federal agency contract for the Hellbender FE variant. As part of Galvion’s long-term NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) framework agreement, over 150,000 Caiman helmets have been shipped to Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Poland. Galvion continues to fulfill orders under this framework, with additional orders anticipated before the end of the year. The company also supports ongoing programs for military and security forces in the United Kingdom, Denmark, the Netherlands, Germany, and multiple Middle Eastern countries, among others. Orders from new, currently undisclosed customers are also underway. To support both immediate delivery and long-term sustainment, Galvion’s European production hub in Gdańsk, Poland has been fully operational since April 2025. The facility serves as a key node in Galvion’s regional strategy, delivering new head systems and supporting ongoing servicing, upgrades, and lifecycle sustainment for fielded equipment across the region. North American production remains centered at Galvion’s Vermont manufacturing facility, ensuring continued responsiveness to domestic program requirements.
All of Galvion’s head systems are engineered for seamless integration with modern mission equipment, including night vision devices, communications headsets, and wearable power and data solutions. Earlier this year, Galvion introduced Cortex™, a new category of modular, helmet-mounted computing and data networking systems that will offer advanced capability upgrades for both the Caiman and Hellbender platforms. The launch of Cortex reflects Galvion’s commitment to delivering future-ready technologies that evolve alongside user needs and operational environments.
Todd Stirtzinger, CEO at Galvion said: “This milestone reflects the depth of trust that global defence and security customers have placed in our Batlskin head systems and our team. With over 1.25 m helmets ordered in the past decade alone, significant recent wins and continuing key programs, we are incredibly excited about the future. Our success is a testament to focused design approach, disciplined execution, and collaborative relationships. It reinforces Galvion’s position as a leader in head systems and speaks to the reliability, agility, and future-forward vision we bring to every program.” He added: “With regional production now in place and our platforms evolving through technologies like Cortex, we’re well positioned to continue delivering advanced, scalable solutions that meet both today’s operational demands and tomorrow’s modernization goals.”
28 Aug 25. L3Harris Establishes Center of Excellence for Skyraider II Aircraft Production. L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) has increased production capacity at its Waco facility for the U.S. Air Force OA-1K Skyraider II and allied nations. The Waco site, with 40 years of experience in aircraft missionization, has expanded to serve as the hub for Skyraider II production and to support additional domestic and international operators. The aircraft will be developed in a newly outfitted hangar with advanced manufacturing tools and processes designed to enhance efficiency and agility. The production facility also allows technicians to streamline testing and provide rapid aircraft upgrades.
“This hangar brings together the talent and technology needed to rapidly advance the Skyraider II mission and deliver the OA-1K aircraft,” said Jason Lambert, President, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance, L3Harris. “The site, which supported the prototype aircraft development, flight testing and FAA certification, is uniquely positioned to carry this mission forward.”
“L3Harris is a strong partner to Waco, as demonstrated by their investment in the opening of the Skyraider II production facility. The innovation taking place here in Central Texas will not only revolutionize advancements on the battlefield, but also strengthen our local economy,” said Congressman Pete Sessions, R-Texas. “This achievement is a testament to the strong workforce we have in Texas, and it is clear that what happens in Waco has global implications.”
Aircraft inductions are already underway at the facility, with the first deliveries on track for this fall. L3Harris continues to deliver aircraft monthly to fulfill the Skyraider II program of record and support operational needs. (Source: ASD Network)
28 Aug 25. Last week, Global Military Products and Polaris Government and Defense were invited to participate in a live-fire demonstration on Marine Corps Base Quantico in conjunction with the Marine Gunners Symposium. On one of Quantico’s 43 live ranges, a group of Marine gunners witnessed the Scorpion Light mobile mortar system in action, demonstrating the shoot and scoot capabilities of the system. Mounted on the Polaris MRZR Alpha 6×6, the fully integrated platform provides mobility, lethality, operator safety and air transportability. The rapid-fire control system is designed to elevate operational efficiency, while the expanded payload of the MRZR Alpha 6×6 variant allows for 48 mortars to also be transported.
The Scorpion Light – known internationally as the Alakran – mobile mortar system has been combat proven across countries in Europe and the Middle East, showing its reliability and effectiveness in diverse and hostile environments. Built with durable materials and rugged construction to withstand extreme temperatures, dust, and harsh conditions, its robust design and resilient technologies make it a durable weapon that can withstand the rigors of combat and remain effective. The mobile mortar system can fire 8 rounds and relocate in under 2 minutes. The dual system can integrate 120mm and 81mm smoothbore or rifled mortars in a very simple operation, providing high firepower and making it a powerful tool for neutralizing enemy targets.
The MRZR Alpha 6×6 is a two-seat platform with a 65 percent larger cargo bed optimized for heavier systems and payloads, like the Scorpion Light. The vehicle has 3,600 lbs (about 1632.93 kg) of payload available, with 3,000 lbs (about 1360.78 kg) of that available in the extended cargo bed. The third axle and short wheelbase also have a positive impact on mobility, decreasing the contact pressure per tire for enhanced performance in soft soil, mud and bogs. The MRZR Alpha 6×6 maintains top speed and air transportability and has more than 90% parts commonality with the base MRZR Alpha. Expeditionary warfighters operating worldwide in austere environments require modular platforms that can adjust to multiple environments and modes of transport – tactical air, fixed wing plane and ship – now more than ever.
28 Aug 25. USAF Tests Helicopter Countermeasures Over Water in Total Force Exercise. The 129th Rescue Wing, based at Moffett Air National Guard Base in Mountain View; the 144th Fighter Wing, based at Fresno ANG Base; and the ANG Air Force Reserve Command Test Center have conducted a first-of-its-kind test evaluating helicopter and fighter aircraft engagements. The Naval Air Warfare Center at Naval Air Station Point Mugu also provided critical support, demonstrating interagency collaboration. The exercise evaluated the effectiveness of countermeasures in a maritime environment. An F-15D Eagle from the 144th FW engaged with an HH-60G Pave Hawk from the 129th RW and an HH-60W Jolly Green II from the 305th Rescue Squadron based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, Arizona. The tests, simulating real-world scenarios, evaluated the helicopters’ defensive capabilities against modern aerial threats.
“The HH-60W has never undergone this type of evaluation,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Don Smith, AATC HH-60 Division deputy director. “This test data will help us determine how effective U.S. countermeasures are against fighter aircraft over water.”
The test data will inform future training and equipment upgrades aimed at enhancing the survivability of rescue helicopters. Modern Technology Solutions Inc., based in Las Vegas, is providing electronic warfare analysis support. Electronic countermeasures disrupt enemy sensors and weapons systems, crucial for aircraft protection. This test is significant for the Air National Guard, which faces unique training limitations.
“Guard units execute the same critical missions as active duty but often have fewer specialized training opportunities,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Terry Parham, AATC HH-60 Division director. “This exercise enhances mission effectiveness and provides invaluable training for our Airmen.”
The 129th RW is transitioning from the HH-60G to the HH-60W. The 305th RS’ HH-60W participation provided the 129th RW valuable experience with the new platform. The collaboration with the two California Air National Guard units and the Air Force Reserve’s 305th RS and 943rd Maintenance Squadrons, which are both part of the 943rd Rescue Group at Davis-Monthan AFB, demonstrates inter-unit and inter-service cooperation. Reservists from the 943rd RG overcame logistical challenges in preparing equipment for the test, highlighting their dedication. This exercise strengthens unit capabilities, improves interoperability and enhances overall force readiness. It emphasizes the importance of collaborative training and testing in today’s complex security environment. (Source: ASD Network)
28 Aug 25. U.S. Army and Polish Air Force Inspectorate Complete Joint SPIKE NLOS Live Fire Campaign from Apache AH-64E. The United States Army, in cooperation with the Inspectorate of the Polish Air Force and with support from Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, conducted a live fire campaign of the SPIKE NLOS (Non-Line-of-Sight) missile system from an AH-64E Apache attack helicopter at the Central Air Force Training Range in Ustka, Poland. The campaign was organized under the direction of U.S. Army, which deployed AH-64E Apaches from the 12th Combat Aviation Brigade, headquartered in Ansbach, Germany, to Poland for training and evaluation. The exercise was hosted by the Polish Ministry of National Defence (MoND) with participation from the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces and the Inspectorate of the Polish Air Force. Observers from over ten allied nations, attended the event, alongside senior commanders from multiple NATO air forces. During the campaign, two SPIKE NLOS missiles were launched from U.S. Army AH-64E Apaches at maritime targets, achieving direct hits at ranges of 26 kilometers. Senior U.S. and Polish military officials emphasized that integrating SPIKE NLOS onto the Apache platform enhances rotary-wing aviation with extended standoff engagement and precision strike capabilities. They further noted the potential of the system as part of Poland’s future AH-64E fleet. The successful campaign reflects over a year of close planning and coordination between U.S. and Polish forces, supported by industry partners. The demonstration underscored the growing cooperation between the United States and Poland in advancing allied interoperability and long-range precision strike capabilities. As the developer and manufacturer of SPIKE NLOS, Rafael provided technical expertise, integration support, and operational know-how throughout the campaign. The company emphasized its commitment to supporting the Polish Armed Forces in every capability-building process they choose to pursue, including through cooperation with Poland’s defense industry.
27 Aug 25. SIG SAUER applauds the USAF and the Global Strike Command in their diligence and expediency in the safety inspection related to the investigation into the tragic incident at F.E. Warren Air Force Base. We remain in direct contact with the Air Force Global Strike Command (AFGSC) leadership during this process and will continue to work with them as they return the M18 to service and provide Airmen with safe, reliable, and effective weapon systems. As affirmed by the AFGSC, the M18 was specifically designed and rigorously tested to meet stringent requirements unique to the military. The AFGSC command-wide inspection showed that no weapon discharges were attributed to a malfunction and the M18 can safely and reliably accomplish their missions across the globe. We value this further confirmation of the safety, reliability, and durability of the P320-based M18 and look forward to continuing our partnership with the USAF. The U.S. military selected the M18 and M17 pistols for their safety and extreme reliability. The AFGSC’s comprehensive M18 investigation and inspection validates the platform’s military suitability. SIG SAUER is hopeful the USAF’s thorough inspection and confirmation will satisfy the concerns of ranges, training facilities and organizations who temporarily suspended the use of P320 variants. The SIG SAUER P320 based M17 and M18 pistols are in service with all branches of the U.S. military and SIG SAUER is extremely proud to support the mission to protect the nation and defend freedom around the world. (Source: PR Newswire)
27 Aug 25. Czech Army prepares to receive MSHORAD air-defence system. The Czech Army’s 25th Anti-Aircraft Missile Regiment in Strakonice is preparing to integrate Mobile Short-Range Air Defence (MSHORAD) systems with RBS 70 NG (New Generation) missiles that the Czech Ministry of Defence ordered from Saab Dynamics on 25 July. The unit is currently equipped with manportable air-defence system (MANPADS) versions of the RBS 70 and RBS 70 NG, with Tatra offroad trucks used to transport the weapons and crew. The MSHORAD system for the Czech Army uses a Saab remote-controlled weapon station with a triple launcher for guided missiles and an RBS 70 NG targeting/guidance unit capable of operating day or night or in adverse weather conditions with automatic target tracking. The MARS 4×4 vehicle, developed and manufactured by Czech company SVOS in Přelouč, will serve as the carrier platform. In addition to the crew, the vehicle will carry additional missiles and a tripod mount and related equipment from the MANPADS version. The targeting unit can be removed from the turret and together with the missile be placed on a standard 22 kg tripod for use as a MANPADS, a capability required by the Czech Army. The SEK1.86bn (USD195m) contract covers the purchase of 24 MARS 4×4 wheeled armoured vehicles in mobile fire unit (MFU) configuration with RBS 70 NG turret assemblies. The Czech Republic will also receive eight additional RBS 70 NG portable systems, 80 RBS 70-series missiles, training equipment, spare parts, and personnel training services. (Source: Janes)
27 Aug 25. US Army selects Spike NLOS for mobile, long-range precision strike. Lockheed Martin will apply the missile to US Army applications through a teaming arrangement with Israeli company Rafael. The US Army have down-selected the Spike non-line-of-sight (NLOS), anti-armour missile system for its mobile, long-range precision strike capability to be used from ground vehicles by infantry brigade combat teams (IBCTs). Lockheed Martin, an American defence prime teaming with the Israeli manufacturer Rafael, bringing the capability to the US defence market, demonstrated the performance of the munition system at Dugway Proving Grounds in Utah. Operators fired three shots, all of which resulted in direct hits, including one unobstructed and two obstructed targets. The shots were ground-launched from an unspecified vehicle and verified Spike’s NLOS capability, which means that the missile offers a stand-off strike capability against distant or geographically concealed targets outside of the direct line-of-sight. It is said that this sixth-generation Spike NLOS missile has a range of up to 50 kilometres (km) from a helicopter and 32km from the ground. While many observers of the Russia-Ukraine conflict point to the rise of first-person view (FPV) uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) as a more cost-effective anti-armour solution, experts from the Royal United Services Institute in London have argued that FPVs have an unreliable effect on armoured targets, requiring multiple hits to kill.
“Operational data from Ukraine demonstrates that only approximately one in five of these munitions reaches a target, because of the manufacturing quality and reliability, the pilot skills required and the effect of EW [electronic warfare] on their control channels,” the authors weighed in a report on Mass Precision Strike (2024).
It does not help that main battle tanks and armoured vehicles are kitted with additional protective layers against the proliferation of these cheap drones. During the IDEX 2025 exhibition in Abu Dhabi, for example, the Russian state-owned defence company Rostec peddled its export version of the T-90, boasting add-on slat armour, “taking into account [ongoing] combat experience” in Ukraine. In this backdrop, the US Army must enhance its IBCT design now that the Department of Defense have ceased procuring the M10 Booker, which would have provided the necessary mobile firepower. Thus, Lockheed suggest that having a man-in-the-loop concept allows the user to “guide” the missile to its target while receiving real-time video so soldiers can make critical targeting decisions, or even abort the mission, while the missile is still in flight.
Transition to the US defence market
Lockheed Martin first partnered with Rafael in 2012 to bring Spike NLOS to US customers. While defining their final requirements for a long-range precision strike missile (LRPM) programme of record, the US Army named Spike as the interim LRPM solution and will evaluate the system on AH-64E Apache helicopters. Furthermore, Lockheed fired Spike NLOS from light combat vehicles such as the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) – so prevalent in the US Army’s ground portfolio – at a range of up to 32km. Although the service has operated nearly 4,000 different JLTV types since 2021, according to GlobalData intelligence, the US Department of Defense still recommended cancelling future orders of the vehicle in its FY25-26 budget proposal. This decision, one of many to constitute the efficiency plans at the heart of the Trump administration, comes as automotive manufacturer AM General prepares to deliver 20,000 units of the latest JLTV A2 variant, along with 10,000 trailers. (Source: army-technology.com)
27 Aug 25. Lockheed Martin seeks to have missiles produced by Rheinmetall, WiWo reports. U.S. defence contractor Lockheed Martin is seeking to have German peer Rheinmetall manufacture missiles including ATACMS and Hellfire types in Germany, business magazine WirtschaftsWoche cited a Lockheed executive as saying.
“We are already actively discussing additional manufacturing – including for ATACMS and Hellfire missiles,” Lockheed’s Europe head Dennis Goege told WirtschaftsWoche, adding that it would take place at Rheinmetall’s expanding Unterluess site in northern Germany.
The two companies said in April they would expand their cooperation beyond a memorandum of understanding signed in 2024, with the U.S. group providing missile and rocket technology and Rheinmetall manufacturing and selling missiles in Europe. Goege also told the magazine that the final list of missiles had yet to be determined. (Source: Reuters)
25 Aug 25. Finland seeks demining robots amid exploding focus on combat robotics. The Finnish military has launched a tender to procure mixed-sized military robots that will help ground forces in disposing explosive threats, as more armed forces in Europe refine their combat robotics requirements. The Nordic country is seeking two models of robots, a large and a smaller variant, that will equip the Finnish Defense Forces’ explosive ordnance and improvised explosive device teams.
“Robots will be used in all standard EOD/IEDD operations, mainly in Finnish terrain, but shall also be capable of operating in international crisis management missions around the world,” a notice published last month by the military’s Logistics Command said.
The initial planned purchase is for four platforms, including spare parts and training, but a follow-on order could entail a total of eight. The tender envisions vehicles that weigh less than 300 kilograms (662 lbs), move on tracks, can be operated wirelessly, and can be fitted with at least two disruptors, which are typically used for disabling explosive devices. In addition, a human operator must be able to use the system’s remote control or interface to activate the disruptors. The estimated value of the purchases is 14,3 m euros (16,7 m USD). Ukraine has been at the forefront of unmanned ground vehicle technologies over the last few years, contributing to fast-track interest in them. The country recently announced the creation of the world’s first UGV battalion. The development of such platforms has previously been slower, as militaries were gradually fine-tuning their plans to field them as a complement – or outright replacement – of legacy systems. In July 2023, only a few months after Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the Estonian Defence Forces organized a demonstration for vendors to show off their vehicles’ abilities. At the time, one of the event’s organizers told Defense News that for the systems to be deployed in operational scenarios like what was unfolding in Ukraine, they required much more robustness and testing. Since then, UGV manufacturers have multiplied contracts both within and outside of Europe. The Estonian-based producer Milrem Robotics, which was acquired by the Emirati conglomerate Edge Group, has over a dozen of its THeMIS UGVs in various configurations to Ukraine and received orders from the Japanese and Emirati militaries last year. In June, the Dutch Ministry of Defense signed a contract on behalf of the Ukraine Task Force with Rheinmetall Defense Nederland to supply 20 UGVs to the Ukrainian forces. France is currently testing the Aurochs 4×4 UGV as it plans to field combat-ready robotic capabilities by 2040. Similarly, last month, Italy hosted the first EU-wide OPEX operational experimentation, in partnership with the European Defense Agency, where six European defense companies demonstrated the capabilities of drones and robotic ground systems. (Source: Defense News)
26 Aug 25. LM Tests New Training Rocket to Boost Army Readiness and Cut Costs. Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) has successfully showcased its new prototype Joint Reduced Range Rocket (JR3) solution, a reusable pod and affordable training round to replace the current Low-Cost Reduced Range Practice Rocket for the U.S. Army and global partners. During a flight demonstration conducted at White Sands Missile Range, Lockheed Martin successfully launched the training round for the first time, demonstrating range, trajectory and reusability. After firing, the test team reloaded a new rocket into the same tube – highlighting the ability for soldiers to reuse the same rocket tube and pod in the field. This advancement provides more training rockets per pod and saves time and resources.
“Our new prototype training round offers a scalable, cost-effective solution built on mature rocket motor technology,” said Dave Griser, vice president of Precision Fires Rockets at Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control. “With a pod capacity of more than 20 rockets, it meets the Army’s demand for increased training volume and affordability without sacrificing performance.”
Market forecasts by Region, Component, Simulator, Type, Service, Software, Hardware, and by End-User. Market and Technology Overview, Market Dynamics, Impact and Opportunity Analysis, and Leading Companies The JR3 rocket is designed to be used with HIMARS and MLRS M270 launchers, which will provide realistic live-fire practice for crews on constrained ranges. The new round enables training exercises to be conducted in a variety of environmental conditions, during day or night, at multiple facilities. Lockheed Martin’s JR3 is not only a cost-effective solution; the technology can also be transferable to future evolutionary efforts such as Direct Support Fires Technology (DSFT) – an Army-led initiative focused on low cost, mass producible rockets compatible with HIMARS and M270 launchers. “With our unique precision fires experience, advanced manufacturing and infrastructure, we’re positioned to offer scalable solutions in that space as well,” said Griser. (Source: ASD Network)
22 Aug 25. India successfully test fires Agni-5 missile. Agni-5 is India’s longest-range operational missile with range of 5,000km. India has successfully test-fired the Agni-5 intermediate-range ballistic missile (IRBM) under the Strategic Forces Command’s supervision. The test was conducted on 20 August 2025,m from the Integrated Test Range at Chandipur in the Indian state of Odisha.
“Intermediate Range Ballistic Missile ‘Agni 5’ was successfully test-fired from the Integrated Test Range, Chandipur in Odisha on August 20, 2025. The launch validated all operational and technical parameters,” a statement from Ministry of Defence reads.
With its 5,000km range, the Agni-5 is stated to be India’s longest-range operational missile. Its coverage include complete Asian continent and extends to parts of Europe, an Economic Times report said. It is part of the Agni missile series, which also comprises earlier versions, Agni-1 through Agni-4. These have already been deployed and feature ranges spanning from 700km to 3,500km. Capable of carrying nuclear warheads, Agni-5 is launched from mobile platforms and the Integrated Test Range. The missile’s advanced guidance systems reportedly provide high precision, and it is powered by a three-stage solid-fuel rocket. The previous trial of the Agni-5 took place on 11 March 2024, when it was successfully tested with Multiple Independently Targetable Re-entry Vehicle (MIRV) technology by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). In 2018, India had conducted a cannister-based test firing of the Agni-5 from Dr Abdul Kalam Island off the Odisha coast. Currently, the DRDO is said to develop the Agni-VI, which is expected to have a range of approximately 10,000km. In July 2025, DRDO completed two successful flight tests of India’s Pralay surface-to-surface missile. Pralay is an indigenously developed quasi-ballistic missile with a solid propellant. Earlier, in April 2025, four successful test launches were conducted for the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) by the DRDO and Indian Army. Data and analytics company GlobalData projected India’s defence spending to reach $543.1bn over the period from 2026 to 2030. (Source: army-technology.com)
25 Aug 25. Finland conducts first test-firing of Gabriel V SSM from Hamina class. The Finnish Navy has conducted a first-of-class test-firing of the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) Gabriel V (known in Finnish service as the PTO2020) surface-to-surface missile (SSM) from a Hamina-class fast attack craft. In a post on the Finnish Navy’s website on 22 August, it said that exercises with the new SSM had been conducted over the boreal summer and that the missile had entered operational service. The PTO2020 replaced the RBS15 SSM on the Hamina class following a mid-life upgrade (MLU) programme, which saw all four ships of the class modernised between 2018 and 2023. Janes assesses that the Gabriel V, also known as the Advanced Naval Attack Missile (ANAM), has a length of 5.5 m and an estimated launch weight of 1,250 kg. The SSM can reach a maximum speed of Mach 0.8 and has a range of over 200 km. According to the Finnish Defence Forces, PTO2020 can also be used for land attack and is equipped with a radar seeker, while also using global navigation satellite services (GNSS) positioning and inertial navigation. PTO2020 is to also equip the Finnish Navy’s four future Pohjanmaa-class corvettes, while land-based versions of the missile are scheduled to replace Finland’s truck-mounted MTO 85M anti-ship missiles for coastal defence before 2030. The Commander of the Finnish Navy, Rear Admiral Tuomas Tiilikainen, said that “by installing the missile system [PTO2020] on several different platforms, we will achieve combat durability and a wide-area strike capability on land and sea”. (Source: Janes)
22 Aug 25. L3Harris Expands Florida Facility to Support America’s Golden Dome. L3Harris Technologies (NYSE: LHX) has completed a $100 m expansion at its satellite integration and test facility in Palm Bay to support the Department of Defense’s (DOD) urgent need for on-orbit technology for the Golden Dome for America. L3Harris’ new investment in Florida adds to the existing capability of the Space Coast and will enable key components for this strategic capability to be delivered during President Trump’s second term. Elected officials, customers and business leaders participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony today for the expanded 94,000-square-foot facility, designed to produce next-generation satellites that will identify, track and defend against hypersonic and advanced missile threats.
“Accelerating the production of proven hardware for national missile warning and defense remains a priority as we align resources across the enterprise to support the President’s vision for America’s Golden Dome,” said Christopher E. Kubasik, Chair and CEO, L3Harris. “We continue to deliver advanced space-based technology with the speed and agility required to protect our homeland from advanced threats while bolstering U.S. manufacturing and continued investment in Florida.”
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L3Harris currently provides crucial missile warning and missile defense capabilities with five satellites on orbit and 34 satellites being developed for hypersonic missile tracking in support of the DOD’s current missile warning and missile defense architecture.
“Thank you for what you do every day for our country. It’s so exciting to see a new facility opening in Palm Bay, Florida,” said U.S. Rep. Mike Haridopolos. “L3Harris is an instrumental leader, not just in space, but national defense, as you’re a vital part of the Golden Dome.”
L3Harris has invested hundreds of ms of dollars in infrastructure and manufacturing processes across the United States to deliver national defense capabilities at the pace and scale required.
“Palm Bay is honored to be the home of this advanced facility, which plays a vital role in strengthening our national security and sustaining the technological edge that keeps our country safe,” said Palm Bay Mayor Rob Medina. “The investment by L3Harris not only supports key defense and space missions but also drives economic opportunity here at home through high-skill, high-wage jobs. We’re proud that Palm Bay is helping lead the way in supporting our nation’s readiness and innovation. L3Harris remains a valued partner in that mission and in the continued growth of our city.”
L3Harris’ investments translate to more than 900,000 square feet of new and renovated advanced manufacturing space nationwide to support the production of space-based missile warning and defense technologies, precision fire-control sensing, targets, and propulsion and control systems for interceptors. (Source: ASD Network)
22 Aug 25. New Facility at SNI Doubles Target Launch Capacity. Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division leaders, joined by Naval Surface Warfare Center – Port Hueneme Division, Naval Facilities Command, and Naval Base Ventura County leaders, cut the ribbon Aug. 20 on a new facility at San Nicolas Island that doubles the command’s capacity for launching supersonic targets on the Point Mugu Sea Range. The ground-launched GQM-163A Supersonic Sea Skimming Target is capable of maneuvering to simulate current threats facing the fleet and is a critical test and training asset for the Navy. NAWCWD’s Threat/Target Systems Department operates two launchers on SNI that together can launch four targets simultaneously, allowing sailors to train and qualify against multiple incoming threats – a more realistic scenario than single launches. That more complex training is especially critical given the escalating tensions abroad.
“The threat environment is changing every day, and we must change and grow with it,” said Rear Adm. Keith Hash, NAWCWD commander. “Being able to present multiple, realistic threats is critical to ensure we deliver our warfighters a decisive advantage so they can deter aggression and, if necessary, win in conflict and return home safely.”
“For the past two years, our surface Navy has been taking the fight, taking the shots, on the other side of the world,” said Capt. Anthony Holmes, commanding officer for NSWC-PHD. “Our warfighters are being asked to fight and use their ships and weapons in ways they never thought they would.”
The new facility, a high explosive magazine, paired with a recently completed missile assembly building, allows NAWCWD to build and store eight GQM-163 targets every eight weeks, doubling the previous capacity of four targets. The Coyote, as the target is called, is nearly 20 feet in length, 30 with its booster attached. That extended size necessitated a much larger storage facility than previously existed at SNI.
“We started this project in 2016 when PEO (IWS) came to us looking to do 30-plus launches a year. At the time, our assembly buildings could only build two each – so a maximum of four,” said Kevin Gross, TTSD director. “We began what became known as MILCON P-586 for both facilities, but due to funding it was split into two phases. The increase in capacity and capability with this project was only possible because of the funding and support from OPNAV N94.”
The first facility completed was a Missile Assembly Building in December 2022. That allowed more targets to be assembled on site, but storing so many targets was still an issue until the HEM was completed in June 2025 and obtained its final explosives safety certification Aug. 13. The HEM’s ability to store up to 10 assembled targets and boosters significantly reduces the timeline for conducting final tests and acceptance prior to launches. The team can conduct two quad launches in a 24-hour period with two back-up targets ready to launch into the Point Mugu Sea Range, the Department of Defense’s largest and most extensively instrumented overwater test range.
“The Range is so valuable to the Surface Navy and the Navy writ large. Threats are getting more complex, and the expanded capabilities this new facility brings are critical to ensuring our Sailors are ready to face them” said Capt. Anthony Holmes, NSWC-PHD commanding officer.
Naval Base Ventura County, which encompasses Point Mugu, Port Hueneme, and SNI, also hosts three warfare centers including NAWCWD and NSWC-PHD. The partnerships between the warfare centers, particularly on the Range, are critical to ensuring effective, efficient weapons testing and surface fleet training.
“The unique capabilities here at NBVC are force multipliers that ensure our Navy’s research and development, test and training, and deployable forces are equipped to meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges,” said. Capt. Daniel Brown, NBVC commanding officer.
The HEM is already in use, just in time for fleet training this fall. (Source: ASD Network)
22 Aug 25. Australia, UK Partner on Guided Weapons R&D. The adoption of novel weapons and tactics in today’s battlespace is happening at an extremely rapid rate. To build competitive advantage, Australia is pursuing greater defence technology cooperation with international partners to accelerate the delivery of advanced military capabilities for the warfighter. A new partnership between Defence Science and Technology Group (DSTG) and the United Kingdom’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) will bring together cutting-edge technologies from both countries to develop affordable, next-generation guided weapons systems. Signed in February 2025, the Copperhead Project Arrangement (PA) aims to accelerate weapons development with innovative ‘plug and launch’ modular technology to deliver advanced, yet low-cost, guided weapons subsystems. Copperhead leverages Australia’s existing Sharktooth technology and combines it with the United Kingdom’s Modular Weapons Testbed – capitalising on both nations’ shared expertise to bring concept to capability faster. Led by DSTG, Sharktooth is a small guided missile project that enables rapid integration of components like sensors, warheads, guidance systems and propulsion units. DSTG Research Leader Dr Michael Sharp said ‘plug and play’ modular technology offered the Australian Defence Force an effective and agile response to evolving threats and countermeasure on the battlefield.
“The pinnacle of which could be ‘plug and launch’ enabling the soldier in the field to adapt to the mission at hand by combining weapon components or a mix of weapons,” Dr Sharp said.
“The disruption that this offers over more conventional weapons approaches has the potential to confer asymmetric advantage, contributing to a strategy of deterrence.”
The PA will also grow sovereign manufacturing capability through research and development (R&D), central to the Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) Plan to deliver the Government’s Future Made in Australia agenda. Under the GWEO research and development program, the Australian Government has invested nearly $60 m for domestic industry to partner with DSTG on GWEO sub-systems technologies. Copperhead will boost this effort by driving new Australian defence industry bases in sub-systems where there is currently limited or no capability in Australia. For example, it will support the creation of future capabilities including rocket motors and propulsion modules, modular warheads and fuzes, advanced seekers and innovative guidance, navigation and control technologies.
“The agreement expands our ability to leverage new technologies from a more diverse range of industry partners and will speed development by integrating technology for test and evaluation in weapons realistic test beds,” Dr Sharp said.
Chief Defence Scientist Professor Tanya Monro said Copperhead combined the strengths of DSTG and Dstl to deliver asymmetric advantage in a deteriorating strategic environment.
“In an increasingly challenging and contested global security environment, Australia must strengthen its industrial and technology cooperation with international partners to pool resources and give Australia a genuine competitive edge,” Professor Monro said.
“Our ability to deliver advanced defence capabilities is underpinned by international partnerships like this one, enabling game-changing ideas and cutting-edge science to be developed with speed into capabilities that provide the ADF an advantage.”
The groundbreaking partnership illustrates how Defence is prioritising innovation, science and technology (IS&T) to deliver a focused, integrated and more lethal ADF under the 2024 National Defence Strategy and Defence IS&T Strategy: Accelerating Asymmetric Advantage – Delivering More, Together. (Source: ASD Network)
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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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