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15 Jan 26. Latvia eyes indirect-fires boost with new Archer howitzer acquisition. Latvia’s government has approved the planned purchase of Archer 155 mm self-propelled howitzers for the country’s armed forces. As part of the procurement, which are made by BAE Systems, Latvia aims to strengthen its cooperation with Sweden, the first customer to buy the Archer. Latvia and Sweden are advancing efforts to engage in long-term cooperation which will include joint training and the deployment of Sweden’s Archers in Latvia starting in 2026. The two countries will establish a joint Archer unit, enabling their militaries to conduct joint exercises, the Latvian Ministry of Defence said in a statement.
“The purchase of the artillery system is an important step in strengthening the capacity of the National Armed Forces,” Latvian Defence Minister Andris Sprūds said. “It will not only expand our indirect fire capabilities, but also promote closer cooperation with Sweden, ensuring joint training and exchange of experience.”
The purchase agreement covers 18 Archers. Officials did not specify the deal’s worth. The Latvian government’s approval for the program follows the signing of a letter of intent between Riga and Stockholm last June. Other Archer users include the Ukrainian military and the British Army, which acquired the weapon to replace AS90 donated to Ukraine. The howitzer buy comes shortly after Latvia’s parliament approved the country’s record-high 2026 defense budget, which foresees spending 4.91% of the country’s gross domestic product (GDP), or €2.16bn ($2.51bn), on the military. As part of the spending hike, ramping up Latvian indirect fire support capabilities has been identified as one of the “key capability development projects,” according to the nation’s defense ministry.
Latvia has accelerated its self-propelled howitzer acquisition plans following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, similar to its two Baltic State neighbors, Estonia and Lithuania. (Source: Defense News)
15 Jan 26. For the first time, Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) conducted a successful 90-degree launch of a Joint-Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) from the JAGM Quad Launcher (JQL) during a demonstration in China Lake, California.
THE BIG PICTURE
- In the demonstration, JAGM proved its ability to neutralize UAS threat systems.
- It also demonstrated the versatility of the JQL launcher, which was mounted to a Richard Childress Racing 6×6 Mothership vehicle.
WHY IT MATTERS
- Validating JAGM & JQL full vertical-launch capability: This demonstration validated JAGM’s full vertical‑launch capability across multiple platforms, including surface‑combatant vessels, which provides a 360‑degree defensive envelope for maritime vessels and other platforms. With JAGM’s advanced dual-mode seeker (SAL/MMW), this integration effort presents JAGM as the ideal munition solution for the U.S. Navy and its allies’ mission-critical needs.
- Showcasing counter-UAS technology: The successful engagement of a UAS threat with JAGM underscores the missile’s ability to detect, track and neutralize hostile threats including drones, unmanned surface vehicles (USVs) and other air threats. This is an increasingly vital capability that modern naval forces need to address emerging threats.
- Multidomain mission integration: The integration of JAGM with the JQL highlights Lockheed Martin’s ability to provide flexible, mission‑tailored deployment across air, sea and land environments. Operators can select from a range of engagement envelopes to meet specific user mission objectives.
EXPERT PERSPECTIVES
- “The successful JQL vertical‑launch demonstration confirms that JAGM can be rapidly deployed from a multimissile launcher across a variety of scenarios, while delivering the network‑centric integration our global users demand,” said Casey Walsh, program management director, Lockheed Martin Multi-Domain Missile Systems. “This milestone validates our vision of a unified missile architecture that seamlessly operates across air, land and sea domains, enhancing survivability and flexibility for future combat operations.”
- “Lockheed Martin continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in vertical launch system development, driving innovation and advancement in the field,” said Edward Dobeck, director, Lockheed Martin Launching Systems. “This proven combat-ready capability meets multidomain deployment objectives today, and provides the same reliability expected of all our launching systems.”
15 Jan 26. US Navy to deploy unmanned systems with surface forces this year. The U.S. Navy is moving swiftly to integrate and deploy unmanned surface vessels, with three USV divisions slated to be created next week and two medium USVs to be operating under fleet control this year. Capt. Garrett Miller, the commodore of Surface Development Group One, made the announcements Wednesday at the Surface Navy Association’s 38th National Symposium.
“My command is really focused on operationalizing USVs for the fleet. We’re driving that really hard,” Miller said. He added that working with fully autonomous vessels requires a “completely different mindset.”
Miller confirmed to Defense News that three early command USV divisions will be formed, with assumption of command set to take place next week in San Diego. Miller said that the service’s long-anticipated Seahawk and Sea Hunter medium USVs will no longer be experimental and will be deployed this year, telling Defense News that the Seahawk will become part of a carrier strike group. The deployments will take place beginning in the next month. The Seahawk and Sea Hunter are the Navy’s first medium autonomous USVs, and are both nearly 135 feet long. They are primed for surveillance, equipped to send data to manned ships to aid in anti-submarine warfare and to increase reconnaissance capabilities. They were previously used in fleet exercises in 2022 and 2023. Miller said that the Navy grew the number of small USVs it had in the force from four to hundreds within 2025 alone, and has since established a warfare officer career path for unmanned systems. He added that the Navy will continue to acquire USVs that have containerized payloads, which could deliver a variety of kinetic effects. (Source: Defense News)
15 Jan 26. Saildrone, Lockheed to place missile launchers on naval drones. Saildrone will equip its unmanned surface vessels with strike missiles made by Lockheed Martin, the drone company announced this week. The collaboration comes in response to a call by global navies for more armed naval drones, according to Saildrone. The 20-meter Saildrone Surveyor vessel will boast the Joint Air-to-Ground Missile (JAGM) launcher manufactured by the U.S. defense giant.
“We expect this work to attract interest from customers who already depend upon Saildrone and are now thinking about layered maritime defense – for some navies, awareness alone is no longer sufficient, and they’re asking how unmanned systems can also contribute to deterrence and if necessary a response,” ret. Vice-Adm. John Mustin, Saildrone’s president, told Defense News.
Larger Saildrone USVs are also under consideration to carry Lockheed Martin weaponry, such as the Mk 70 Vertical Launching System, a containerized missile launcher, per a company press release. The new partnership will entail enhanced naval capabilities, including the use of artificial intelligence, which is part of Lockheed Martin’s $50 million investment in Saildrone. According to Mustin, while the company strives to integrate greater autonomy across its USVs to increase sensing and data processing abilities, it is not pursuing fully autonomous weapons. “Any strike capability would have a human firmly in the loop,” he added. Many global navies have envisioned a manned-unmanned hybrid fleet for their future requirements, including the United States. Former U.S. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Michael Gilday said the service’s ambition is to build up to 500 vessels, including 350 crewed ships and 150 large uncrewed surface vessels. Last year’s reconciliation bill known as the ‘One Big Beautiful Bill Act,’ passed by Congress, included investments of over $3 billion for the procurement of surface vessels: $1.5bn for the expansion of small USV production and $2.1bn for the development and procurement of medium ones.
A report from the U.S.-based Center for Maritime Strategy published in September noted that lawmakers were reluctant to approve the planned funding until the Navy was able to produce a concept of operations for their use. Saildrone has already planned proof-of-concept integrations and a live-fire demonstration to take place next summer. Arming naval drones was not a widely implemented practice a few years ago, primarily due to technological and political hurdles, which limited their use largely to surveillance missions. The Ukraine war has changed this, as the country’s naval forces demonstrated their ability to attack much larger targets using cheaper weaponized USVs. However, the Saildrone executive warned that the success may not replicate across different conflict zones.
“What the Ukrainians have shown is their incredible ability to inflict a cost curve on their adversaries, striking capital assets with significantly less expensive means – but different theaters around the world present different challenges over much larger distances and threats,” Mustin said.
Over the last year, Saildrone platforms have totaled over 10,000 cumulative days on the water, covering more than 380,000 nautical miles and detecting 2,376,583 vessels, according to the company. (Source: Defense News)
14 Jan 26. Kratos Opens New 55,000-Square-Foot State-of-the-Art Hypersonic System Manufacturing and Payload Integration Facility in Princess Anne, Maryland. Kratos Continues to Demonstrate Commitment to Growing the U.S. Defense Industrial Base with this Announcement of Its Sixth New Facility in a Year. Kratos Defense & Security Solutions, Inc. (Nasdaq: KTOS), a technology company in defense, national security, and global markets, announced today the grand opening of its new 55,000-square-foot state-of-the-art hypersonic and “Other” system manufacturing and payload integration facility in Princess Anne, Maryland. The advanced facility will significantly enhance Kratos’ capabilities to support launch operations and hypersonic testing for the Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonics Test Bed (MACH-TB) 2.0 program and other customers from agencies including the U.S. Navy, US Air Force, DARPA, and the Missile Defense Agency.
“This strategic investment in Princess Anne represents Kratos’ commitment to expanding our nation’s hypersonic testing infrastructure and capabilities,” said Dave Carter, President of Kratos Defense & Rocket Support Services Division. “The new facility enables us to increase production capacity, streamline payload integration processes, and respond even more rapidly to the growing demand for affordable hypersonic flight testing. The Princess Anne facility will play a crucial role in supporting our $1.4 bn MACH-TB 2.0 contract and other critical programs, enabling increased test cadence and more affordable flight test opportunities for hypersonic technologies.
The Princess Anne facility features advanced manufacturing capabilities, specialized integration areas, and enhanced testing equipment designed to support Kratos’ expanding role in hypersonic testing and launch operations. The location was strategically chosen for its proximity to NASA Wallops Flight Facility, optimizing logistics and operational efficiencies.
“We are excited to welcome Kratos to Princess Anne and look forward to the opportunities it will bring. Kratos’ contributions will help strengthen our local economy and business community,” stated Jay Prouse, Princess Anne Town Manager.
Danny Thompson, Executive Director for the Somerset County Economic Development Commission (EDC), remarked, “We are thrilled that Kratos will be locating to the Princess Anne Industrial Park. The collaboration efforts between Kratos, the Town of Princess Anne, and Somerset County EDC, continues to foster expansion in the Aerospace Engineering field and provide job retention and economic growth.”
Eric DeMarco, President and CEO of Kratos, said, “This new facility is another example of Kratos’ strategy of making upfront commitments to rapidly develop and field relevant national security hardware, products and systems, and invest in growing the U.S. defense industrial base. Similar to other Kratos facilities, Princess Anne is directly tied to either customers, programs, contracts, partners and specific hardware, products and systems, resulting in a tailored, efficient, manufacturing, integration or production facility, resulting in low cost, efficient rapid execution and delivery to the warfighter.”
The Princess Anne facility is expected to create new high-skilled jobs in the region and further strengthen Kratos’ capabilities to support the Department of War’s initiatives to accelerate hypersonic technology development and testing. (Source: ASD Network)
14 Jan 26. LM Successfully Completes 1st Flight Test of NGSRI.
First flight test positions the U.S. Army for future air defense needs
Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) successfully completed the first of a series of flight tests to demonstrate its Next-Generation Short-Range Interceptor (NGSRI) capability, a potential replacement for the Stinger missile. This milestone demonstrates the company’s commitment to advancing technology and prioritizing customer needs to address emerging threats.
THE BIG PICTURE
The flight test, which took place at the U.S. Army White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico, validated the interceptor’s performance and marked the maturation of key interceptor subsystems. The test represented a significant step forward in the development of this advanced missile system.
- Lockheed Martin’s NGSRI offering is being developed as a 21st Century Security® solution that meets all soldier safety and performance needs.
- The system continuously evolves through modern open systems architecture and system modularity.
- NGSRI is designed to be highly effective against unmanned aerial systems, rotary- and fixed-wing aircraft.
- In many cases, NGSRI more than doubles the capability of the legacy system.
- Lockheed Martin has taken the missile from concept to flight in just 26 months since the initial contract award in 2023.
- It leverages Lockheed Martin’s extensive experience in air and missile defense and uses advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning to deliver a truly innovative solution.
EXPERT PERSPECTIVE
- “Our team’s shared mission, innovative approach and agility were essential to achieving this milestone,” said Randy Crites, vice president, Lockheed Martin Advanced Programs. “Lockheed Martin is driving the future of integrated air and missile defense, advancing technologies that safeguard our warfighters and allies from evolving threats.”
- “The successful completion of this first flight test is a testament to our team’s agility and drive to deliver critical capabilities on an accelerated timeline. We completed our controlled flight test series in less than six months, demonstrating the speed and agility the Lockheed Martin team brings to this exciting competition,” said Chris Murphy, business development lead, Lockheed Martin Advanced Programs. “Lockheed Martin is committed to the rapid delivery of highly capable, manufacturable and affordable systems that meet the Army’s needs today. Our team has a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions that protect people, infrastructure and nations around the world.” (Source: ASD Network)
13 Jan 26. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and the U.S. Navy continue to expand the Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) capability of the MQ-9B SeaGuardian® Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS). Flight test was performed on December 17 and featured Sonobuoy Dispensing System (SDS) pods, more than previously tested, doubling the number of sonobuoys available.
“Expanding sonobuoy capacity, including Multi-static Active Coherent (MAC) technology for SeaGuardian, has been an integral part of our advanced ASW strategy to broaden and enhance search areas,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “The wider maritime coverage our MQ-9B’s ASW capability provides is extremely valuable to our customers.”
Sonobuoys are naval sensors that drop from an aircraft into the ocean and help detect submarines. The SeaGuardian deployed AN/SSQ-36 Bathythermal, AN/SSQ-53G Directional Frequency Analysis and Recording (DIFAR) (passive), and AN/SSQ-62F Directional Command Activated Sonobuoy System (DICASS) (active) buoys. This was the first time Multi-static Active Coherent (MAC) buoys have been dispensed from an uncrewed aircraft. The MAC buoys are better at detecting submarines over large areas and require fewer buoys compared to using DIFAR and DICASS. Sponsored by the U.S. Navy, the flight tests were specifically aimed at certifying the SDS. This flight testing supports the Commander, U.S. Pacific Fleet’s Operational Evaluation deployment to SEVENTH Fleet and enjoyed additional support and governmental supervision from the Naval Air Warfare Center Aircraft Division (NAWCAD) AIRWorks. Upon completion of the testing and data review, the U.S. Navy is expected to give GA-ASI deployment flight clearance for ASW operations using MQ-9B SeaGuardian in January 2026. SeaGuardian has also been used by the U.S. Navy in various recent exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, RIMPAC, and Group Sail.
14 Jan 26. Rheinmetall and EM&E Group show national alternative to Spanish SILAM programme. EM&E Group and Rheinmetall Expal Munitions, the Spanish subsidiary of Rheinmetall, have submitted their joint proposal to the Ministry of Defence for the SILAM High Mobility Rocket Launcher System (Sistema Lanzador de Alta Movilidad), representing a national alternative to the existing programme. With the goal of defining a viable Spanish solution in the shortest possible time, the joint venture formed by both companies has maintained intense and continuous coordination with the Directorate General of Armament and Material of the State Secretariat for Defence. This joint effort has allowed for an in-depth analysis of the operational needs for this programme and the existing capabilities, laying the foundations for a system fully aligned with the strategic interests of Spain. As a result of this coordinated effort, the UTE SILAM (joint venture between Rheinmetall Expal Munitions and EM&E) has submitted a phased proposal for the development of a rocket artillery system, conceived from the outset as a fully national programme in Spain. This proposal includes the delivery of operational and test launchers, as well as ammunition, reconnaissance, and command post vehicles, along with the development and qualification of training and guided rockets. This approach will allow for progressive advancement toward the system’s full technological maturity, ensuring its suitability for operational requirements and its long-term sustainability.
Strengthening the national industrial and technological base
The SILAM programme is also integrated into the Industrial and Technological Plan for Security and Defence as a strategic initiative aimed at strengthening the national industrial and technological base in Spain. In this context, the project not only addresses the operational requirements of the Spanish Armed Forces while contributing to the development of defence capabilities for the European Union and NATO, but also reinforces key industrial capabilities, national supply chains, and technological innovation. The development of this system represents a significant step forward in the leadership of the Spanish defence industry, positioning it in a highly specialized technological field currently dominated by very few countries. This initiative consolidates the national industry as a reliable and capable strategic partner, able to undertake complex programs, thereby increasing its competitiveness and future prospects. Furthermore, the programme will enable the independent acquisition of national expertise in the design, development, and manufacture of guided rockets, guaranteeing sovereign control of critical knowledge and the complete system lifecycle. This technological autonomy strengthens national sovereignty, increases the resilience of the defence system, and constitutes a fundamental pillar of strategic autonomy.
13 Jan 26. Northrop Grumman (NYSE: NOC) will manufacture and deliver to the U.S. Navy a new advanced lightweight torpedo with a custom-designed warhead to increase its lethality. Northrop Grumman will draw upon decades of production expertise to deliver a weapon that fires from multiple naval platforms.
- Northrop Grumman will perform the integration and initial proof of manufacturing at the company’s facility in Plymouth, Minnesota, and Allegany Ballistics Laboratory (ABL) in Rocket Center, West Virginia.
- The contract, worth $233 m, covers the proof of manufacturing and qualification phases, as well as delivery of multiple torpedoes for qualification testing.
- Northrop Grumman’s state-of-the-art facilities and technologies allow for rapid delivery of this urgent U.S. Navy requirement.
Expert:
Dave Fine, vice president, armament systems, Northrop Grumman: “Northrop Grumman is leveraging over 80 years of innovative torpedo technology, combined with our capacity and speed in delivery, to accelerate the design qualification and manufacturing for the advanced lightweight torpedo. This new weapon will provide U.S. and allied sailors with a next-generation response to counter the most advanced undersea threats.”
Details on the Advanced Lightweight Torpedo Program:
The MK54 MOD 2 was designed under a cooperative development agreement with the Australian Defence Force, led by the U.S. Navy. This upgraded torpedo will enhance the existing inventory of MK54 MOD 0 and MOD 1 variants with Northrop Grumman’s advanced warhead and processing capabilities, resulting in increased performance and lethality. Capable of tracking, classifying, and attacking underwater targets, MK54 MOD 2 will operate in all ocean environments. These capabilities are part of Northrop Grumman’s broad offerings in advanced weapons that includes missiles, components, armaments, electronics, and interceptors to defeat and deter threats. In addition, Northrop Grumman’s expertise in deep ocean engineering and undersea vehicles will further enhance successful integration and testing of these systems. (Source: ASD Network)
14 Jan 26. GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE) and Lockheed Martin (NYSE: LMT) completed a series of engine tests demonstrating the viability of a liquid-fueled rotating detonation ramjet for use in hypersonic missiles, the first initiative between the companies under a broader joint technology development arrangement.
WHY IT MATTERS
This fuel-efficient rotating detonation ramjet promises to fly missiles faster—including at hypersonic speeds—and farther while decreasing costs compared to other ramjet options. Here’s how:
- The compact design enables increased fuel or payload capacity and lowers the cost of production.
- Improved fuel efficiency and thrust generation extends range.
- Ignition is achieved at a lower speed, so smaller boosters can be used for ramjet start.
HOW IT WORKS
- The rotating detonation ramjet combusts fuel and air through detonation waves instead of the traditional combustion methods used in ramjet engines today.
- This propulsion system generates high thrust for super- and hypersonic speeds to engage high-value, time-sensitive targets, with a smaller engine size and weight that boosts range.
STRATEGIC PERSPECTIVES
“GE Aerospace’s hypersonic capabilities continue to advance at a rapid pace, and this collaboration with Lockheed Martin is another step forward in our journey,” said Mark Rettig, vice president and general manager of Edison Works Advanced Programs at GE Aerospace. “The testing on the rotating detonation ramjet and inlet exceeded expectations, and we are excited about this collaboration to continue maturing our advanced air-breathing hypersonic propulsion technologies.”
“Following two years of internal investment, this demonstration is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation and joint commitment to get affordable capability into the hands of warfighters at the speed of relevance,” said Randy Crites, vice president and general manager at Lockheed Martin Advanced Programs. “This compact ramjet applies Lockheed Martin’s expertise in ramjet inlets and offers extended range at extreme speeds. We’re committed to delivering a propulsion system that advances America’s hypersonic capability in an intensifying threat environment.”
DIVE DEEPER
- The ramjet features GE Aerospace’s rotating detonation combustion system and Lockheed Martin’s tactical inlet that enables high-speed airflow to the combustor.
- The companies conducted direct connect tests in ramjet ignition and cruise conditions at the GE Aerospace Research Center in Niskayuna, New York, to demonstrate the operation of an air-breathing rotating detonation ramjet for missile applications.
- Engineers injected air into the inlet to represent supersonic flight at various speeds and altitudes, including high cruising altitudes where the thin air challenges robust combustion.
WHAT’S NEXT
GE Aerospace and Lockheed Martin will continue ramjet maturation in 2026.
13 Jan 26. Team Wendy Ceradyne, a leading US-based developer and manufacturer of advanced combat helmets for the Department of Defense, and Theon International, a global company specializing in electro-optical systems including night vision, thermal imaging, and augmented reality (AR) technologies, have announced a strategic partnership under a US Army Combat Capabilities Development Command (DEVCOM) Soldier Center (SC)-funded initiative. Together, the companies are developing a next generation Integrated Multi-Threat Headborne System (IMHS) designed to enhance Soldier protection, situational awareness, and lethality across multi-domain operations.
“With Army support and strong industry partnerships, we’re advancing head protection into a fully integrated helmet system — combining ballistic protection with enhanced situational awareness,” said Erik Cobham, President of Team Wendy Ceradyne. “This shift fundamentally changes how Soldiers perceive, decide, and respond on the battlefield.”
Conducted under a shared-cost model between the US government and industry partners, the program integrates Team Wendy Ceradyne’s proven ballistic protection technologies with Theon’s advanced electronic systems. The result will be a modular head borne architecture capable of delivering tailored, mission critical technologies – including seamless communications integration – adaptable to future operational requirements.
“We are honored to partner with the exceptional Team Wendy Ceradyne on this critical US Army initiative,” said Dr. Michalis Kolotos, Director of US Operations for THEON. “This collaboration is a prime opportunity to integrate our advanced THEON NEXT opto-electronic solutions, which are a direct result of our technological knowhow and our strategic investments in the US. We are focused on delivering head borne power and data solutions that could enable next-generation capabilities, such as advanced day-and-night Head-Up Displays (HUDs) and Augmented Reality (AR), all seamlessly connected to the soldier’s Power and Battle Management System. This integration is key to enhancing situational awareness and decision-making for the US warfighter.”
The DEVCOM SC-sponsored team also includes Invisio, providing lightweight tactical communications and hearing protection, and Revision, contributing ballistic and laser protective eyewear. The IMHS prototype developed in this project will be evaluated by the DEVCOM Soldier Center in Fourth Quarter, FY26, during a Soldier Touchpoint to assess performance and gather user feedback for future design phases. (Source: ASD Network)
12 Jan 26. X-Bow Systems Inc (X-Bow), the leading non-traditional producer of advanced manufactured solid rocket motors (SRMs) and defense technologies announced today that it has successfully completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR) for its Mk 72 booster and Mk 104 dual-thrust SRM development contracts for the United States Navy’s Standard Missile program. This milestone represents a crucial step in demonstrating the design maturity and reducing risk for critical technologies within the program.
“X-Bow Systems is proud to be a partner in addressing the nation’s critical need for more solid rocket motors,” said Jason Hundley, X-Bow CEO. “We have assembled a nationwide, experienced and talented team that is revolutionizing the approach to conventional manufacturing: enabling speed, performance, flexibility, scaling, affordability, and reliability.”
Under these two contracts, X-Bow Systems is developing new designs for the Mk 72 and Mk 104 SRMs using its state-of-the-art design tools and unique patented advanced manufacturing approaches for the first and second stage propulsion of the Navy’s Standard Missiles. These efforts are in collaboration with the Navy’s Program Executive Office Integrated Warfare Systems (PEO IWS) 3.0, Naval Air Warfare Center – Weapons Division at China Lake, Naval Surface Warfare Center at Indian Head, and Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Lab. The successful completion of the PDR marks a significant step forward, validating the program’s design maturity and accelerating X-Bow’s commitment to expanding the domestic industrial base for solid rocket motors and enhancing the Navy’s capabilities.
About X-Bow Systems
X-Bow Systems is disrupting the aerospace industry with innovative and cost-effective advanced manufactured energetics for the solid rocket motor and launch vehicle market. X-Bow is also designing and building a suite of modular solid rocket motors and small launch vehicles for both orbital and suborbital launch services. X-Bow is led by CEO Jason Hundley, Chairman Mark Kaufman, CTO Max Vozoff, CRO Maureen Gannon, General Counsel John Leary, COO Mike Bender and a growing team of seasoned industry veterans and new space entrepreneurs. X-Bow is a dual-use technology company with investment from: Crosslink Capital, Razor’s Edge Ventures, Balerion Space Ventures, Boeing, Arkenstone Capital, The Capital Factory, Upsher Management Company, Event Horizon Capital, and Lockheed Martin Ventures. Headquartered in Albuquerque, New Mexico, X-Bow has additional presence in California, Alabama, Colorado, Texas, Utah, Maryland and Washington, DC. For more information visit XBowSystems.com.
09 Jan 26. Northrop launches redesigned ICBM target vehicle. The redesigned ICBM target achieved all test objectives, confirming its suitability for future missile defence tests. Northrop Grumman supplies target vehicles for testing and verifying missile defence systems. Credit: Around the World Photos/Shutterstock.com. Northrop Grumman has completed the first launch of its redesigned Intercontinental Ballistic Missile (ICBM) target vehicle, meeting “all performance goals” during a missile defence test event. The new version incorporates a second stage motor from a decommissioned Peacekeeper ICBM, supplied by the Space Force’s Rocket Systems Launch Program (RSLP), to enhance capability and operational lifespan for future testing. The updated target vehicle features an integrated digital ecosystem, including a digital twin that provides a synchronised virtual model of the system to streamline manufacturing, testing, and integration processes. Virtual reality simulations supported factory integration and stacking operations, assisting planners in identifying potential issues before actual implementation.
In addition, the use of augmented reality during interstage integration reduced assembly time.
Northrop Grumman targets and interceptors director Robin Heard said: “By embedding digital technology into every phase of the ICBM target redesign and new integration processes, we have streamlined field operations, enhanced operational safety and driven cost-effectiveness for our customers.
“The significant efficiencies identified during the redesigned target’s first pathfinding and maiden launch will positively impact future flight tests.”
The vehicle achieved a 25% reduction in field execution time during Pathfinder operations preceding the successful launch.
Northrop Grumman’s redesigned ICBM target is aligned with advanced front ends to simulate evolving ballistic missile threats for evaluation by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA).
These vehicles are used in tests of systems such as the Aegis Ballistic Missile Defense System and Ground-based Midcourse Defense System. To date, Northrop Grumman has delivered 27 ICBM target vehicles, and since 2011 has supported 12 successful launches. The current model uses a repurposed Peacekeeper SR119 solid rocket motor as its first stage, increasing range, peak altitude, and payload capacity. In October last year, Northrop Grumman and the US Air Force conducted a critical design review for the Sentinel Launch Support System (LSS). (Source: airforce-technology.com)
09 Jan 26. L&T and Indian Army partner for Pinaka MLRS upgrades. The programme will address obsolete components, upgrade key sub-systems, and offer technical support to the Army Base Workshops. Larsen & Toubro (L&T) has secured a supply contract from the Corps of Electronics and Mechanical Engineers (EME) of the Indian Army to overhaul, upgrade, and manage obsolescence for the Pinaka multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS). The initiative begins with a joint pilot overhaul of the Pinaka Launcher and Battery Command Post involving L&T and 510 Army Base Workshop (ABW) EME. If this pilot phase concludes successfully, 510 ABW will take on further overhauls of remaining systems, while L&T will continue supplying critical spare parts, technical assistance, and quality assurance. This model may serve as a framework for lifecycle management and upgrade programmes for other defence platforms. The approach supports the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Make in India) initiative by utilising domestic design, manufacturing, and systems integration capabilities. The collaboration with the Corps of EME of the Indian Army is intended to improve the long-term operational readiness and modernisation of Pinaka regiments presently in service. It also introduces a public-private partnership model focused on managing outdated components, upgrading key sub-systems, and shifting towards a structured, lifecycle-based approach to system support. L&T’s involvement includes providing parts and supporting sub-system upgrades in close cooperation with Army Base Workshops.
L&T stated: “This latest partnership between the Indian Army and L&T is a paradigm shift in sustenance of defence systems, showcasing closer industry-Indian Army collaboration.”
The group had previously worked with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Indian Army for the design and supply of Pinaka systems. In November last year, the Indian Army signed a contract with L&T for BvS10 Sindhu armoured vehicles, which will be manufactured at its Armoured Systems Complex in Hazira, Gujarat. Industry data from GlobalData estimated that India’s defence spending may reach $543.1bn from 2026 to 2030 due to the country’s ongoing military modernisation effort. (Source: army-technology.com)
13 Jan 26. Department of War Announces $1bn Direct-to-Supplier Investment to Secure the U.S. Solid Rocket Motor Supply Chain. The Department of War (DoW), working in partnership with L3Harris Technologies, today announced the signing of a letter of intent outlining agreed-upon investment terms pivotal to expanding the production capacity of U.S. solid rocket motors. The announcement marks the first direct-to-supplier partnership of this kind, with the DoW committing to a $1 bn convertible preferred equity investment in L3Harris’ Missile Solutions business, which will become a separate company as part of this transaction. This partnership positions the DoW and L3Harris to negotiate multi-year procurement framework agreements for solid rocket motors, vital to several critical munitions, pending Congressional authorization and appropriations. An Initial Public Offering (IPO) is planned in the second half of 2026, providing the US government the opportunity to benefit on this unique investment framework. This investment will expand production capacity of a critical node to national security and the munitions industrial base. The terms of the agreement scale up the domestic supply chain for solid rocket motors by providing the upfront investment and stability needed to increase production, modernize facilities, and bolster industrial resilience. This is a direct outcome of the Department’s new Acquisition Transformation Strategy and its “Go Direct-to-Supplier” initiative. The strategy calls for the Department to negotiate and invest directly with critical suppliers to save money and time, while proactively managing the single points of failure. Under the framework of this unique strategic investment model, the Department of War will make a $1bn convertible preferred equity investment as the anchor investor in L3Harris’ new Missile Solutions company. The terms of the agreement establish the basis for the creation of the new, publicly traded company focused purely on missile solutions. This direct investment from the Industrial Base Analysis and Sustainment (IBAS) authority resources solid rocket motor production, a critical node in the munitions supply chain. Since its acquisition of Aerojet Rocketdyne, now Missile Solutions, L3Harris has significantly increased solid rocket motor capacity. The investment from the DoW, along with sustained, long-term demand, will support Missile Solutions’ rapid expansion of capacity for the DoW’s critical missile programs, such as PAC-3, THAAD, Tomahawk, and Standard Missile.
“We are fundamentally shifting our approach to securing our munitions supply chain,” said Michael Duffey, Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment. “By investing directly in suppliers we are building the resilient industrial base needed for the Arsenal of Freedom. This direct-to-supplier model is a crucial step toward replenishing stockpiles, rebuilding our military, and reestablishing deterrence by ensuring the availability of critical components.”
This partnership with L3Harris marks another critical achievement for the Department’s Munitions Acceleration Council, which was established to rapidly identify and remove structural barriers, like supply chain vulnerabilities, to scaling weapons production and to translate urgent operational demand into executable, long-term industrial capacity. Collaboration between a number of DoW components continue to drive forward and advise unique investment approaches to strengthen our industrial base, including the Office of the Under Secretary of War for Acquisition and Sustainment, the Economic Defense Unit, the Office of Strategic Capital, and the Military Departments. (Source: U.S. DoD)
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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.
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