2025 - Weeklydefencenews

To back up its F-35 jets, Canada is considering a fleet of fighter drones.

The Canadian Department of Defence is laying the foundation for the procurement of tactical unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to work alongside the nation’s future F-35 combat aircraft. Unclassified records...

July 15, 2025
Admin
Air Platforms
R&D

Mi-8/17 Helicopter Replacement Program Launched by Russia

A new multirole helicopter program has been launched in Russia to replace the long-serving Mi-8/17 fleet, according to national media sources. The rotorcraft, designated Mi-80, is based on the...

Spain Plans to Acquire More Than 200 Self-Propelled Howitzers

In a move to overhaul its artillery capabilities, the Spanish military is planning to procure more than 200 self-propelled howitzers to replace its aging M109 systems. The effort, worth...

XTEND Increases $30 Million to Expand AI-Powered Battlefield Robotics

To support the expansion of its AI-enabled tactical robotics systems, XTEND has secured an extra $30 million in funding. The funds will support increased production capacity, real-time AI integration,...

To aid in combined operations with its European allies, Denmark purchases 129 Patria 6×6 automobiles from Finland.

Denmark has solidified its commitment to the Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) programme by signing the final three agreements—covering R&D, framework governance, and life cycle management—completing its formal accession...

July 14, 2025
Admin
Unmanned Systems
New Product Launches

During the Bastille Day procession, the French Army highlights the accuracy of its artillery by using the DT-46 tactical drone.

The French Army has officially unveiled its DT46 artillery reconnaissance drone during the annual Bastille Day parade on the Champs-Élysées—an unprecedented public appearance. Integrated with the 68th African Artillery...

Eight Ukraine-Proven V-BAT Drones Purchased by Dutch Navy

To strengthen maritime ISR capabilities, the Dutch Ministry of Defence has procured eight V-BAT VTOL drones for use by the Royal Netherlands Navy and Marine Corps. Selected based on...

July 14, 2025
Admin
Unmanned Systems
New Product Launches

As Colombia’s first-ever indigenous military drone, “Dragom” takes to the skies.

In a move to boost indigenous defense technology, Colombia has introduced “Dragom,” its first homegrown military drone. Developed by CIAC, the system supports surveillance and strike operations and was...

July 14, 2025
Admin
Training and Simulation
Mergers & JV

The United States performs military maneuvers at the Panama Canal.

The U.S. military, in cooperation with Panamanian police forces, has launched a new set of joint exercises aimed at enhancing security around the Panama Canal. This move follows concerns...

July 13, 2025
Admin
Naval Platforms
New Product Launches

The BRP Miguel Malvar, a guided missile frigate belonging to the Philippine Navy, begins its trial phase in preparation for operational deployment.

The BRP Miguel Malvar (FFG-06), the Philippine Navy’s latest guided missile frigate, has entered the Operational Readiness and Capability Tests (ORACT) — a critical pre-service evaluation to confirm combat...