2026 - Weeklydefencenews

Marines Add Shoot-and-Scoot Mortar

The US Marine Corps is enhancing expeditionary firepower through the acquisition of the Scorpion Light mobile mortar platform. Developed as a lightweight automated indirect fire system, it combines mobility...

Dutch Consider Multi-Billion Vehicle Buy

Dutch defense planners are moving toward a major modernization decision involving the acquisition of hundreds of armored combat support vehicles. Van Halteren Technologies has reportedly emerged as a leading...

March 2, 2026
Admin
Land Platforms
New Product Launches

First Australia-Built AS9 Huntsman Debuts

Australia has taken another step toward sovereign artillery capability with the rollout of locally manufactured AS9 Huntsman howitzers produced by Hanwha Defence in Victoria. Part of the LAND 8116...

March 2, 2026
Admin
Air Platforms
R&D

F130 Engine Tests Advance B-52J Program

The modernization of the US Air Force’s B-52 bomber fleet reached a new milestone after Rolls-Royce completed operational testing of its F130 propulsion system. Trials verified durability, stability, and...

March 2, 2026
Admin
Missile & Missile Defence
R&D

NASAMS Air Defense Set for Antwerp

Belgium is strengthening homeland air defense by introducing NASAMS missile systems to defend the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, one of Europe’s most strategically important economic hubs. Scheduled for installation in...

Royal Navy Downs Drones in Live Exercise

HMS Duncan has demonstrated advanced counter-drone warfare capabilities after successfully completing a demanding multi-domain exercise involving live and simulated threats. Conducted near Aberporth, the event challenged the Type 45...

Macron Outlines Nuclear

At France’s Ile Longue naval base, Emmanuel Macron will detail plans for strengthening Europe’s nuclear deterrence posture. Discussions include closer coordination with allies and possible deployment arrangements involving French...

February 28, 2026
Admin
Air Platforms
Procurement & Contracts

UK to Grant $1.3B Helo Deal to Leonardo

Britain is poised to sign a £1 billion deal with Leonardo for 23 support helicopters, ensuring continued operations at the Yeovil production site. With Airbus and Lockheed Martin exiting...

February 27, 2026
Admin
Unmanned Systems
Procurement & Contracts

Army Buys More Switchblade Drones

The US Army has placed a $186-million order with AeroVironment for Switchblade 600 and 300 drones, marking the introduction of the upgraded 600 line with an armor-penetrating warhead. The...

February 27, 2026
Admin
Naval Platforms
Mergers & JV

Fincantieri, Navantia Form Corvette JV

Fincantieri and Navantia plan to form a joint venture for the European Patrol Corvette program, aiming to deliver next-generation modular warships by 2030. The collaboration will oversee detailed design...