2026 - Weeklydefencenews

February 25, 2026
Admin
Land Platforms
New Product Launches

New German Defense Stops Close Drones

Mehler Protection is advancing battlefield survivability with SCILT, a compact counter-UAS solution mounted on vehicles. The system merges onboard detection sensors with integrated effectors capable of engaging approaching drones...

February 25, 2026
Admin
Naval Platforms
Procurement & Contracts

Freire to Build 4 Swedish Support Vessels

Stockholm is enhancing maritime logistics with an order for four ice-capable support ships from Spain’s Freire. Built for severe Nordic conditions, the vessels will combine fuel-efficient diesel-electric systems with...

February 25, 2026
Admin
Air Platforms
R&D

Black Hawk Overhaul to Extend Service Life

Seeking to extend the service life of its UH-60M Black Hawks past mid-century, the US Army has issued a request for industry input on large-scale airframe modernization. The program...

February 24, 2026
Admin
Soldier Systems
New Product Launches

New Modular Helmet and Armor System

Rheinmetall’s new combat helmet and modular body armor system combine advanced materials with ergonomic design to enhance comfort, mobility, and protection. The system allows tailored protection configurations, enabling troops...

February 24, 2026
Admin
Missile & Missile Defence
R&D

Taipei Boosts Air Defense Missile Fleet

Taiwan’s interest in acquiring additional NASAMS units underscores its efforts to modernize national air defenses and enhance layered protection. The advanced radar and missile architecture enables simultaneous engagement of...

February 24, 2026
Admin
Unmanned Systems
R&D

General Atomics Expands MQ-9B Firepower

General Atomics’ plan to integrate long-range standoff missiles onto MQ-9B unmanned aircraft significantly expands their operational role. By equipping drones with precision-guided munitions capable of striking targets hundreds of...

$73.5M Contract for Tank Engine Systems

Rolls-Royce Solutions America’s agreement to supply power-pack kits for Israel’s Merkava tanks strengthens the sustainment infrastructure of Israel’s armored forces. The modular design enables rapid replacement of major propulsion...

February 24, 2026
Admin
Naval Platforms
R&D

Norway Upgrades Fast-Attack Missile Boats

Norway’s contract with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace marks a significant step in the modernization of the Royal Norwegian Navy’s Skjold-class fast attack vessels. The comprehensive combat system upgrade introduces...

February 24, 2026
Admin
Air Platforms
Procurement & Contracts

Engine Selected for Expendable Combat Drone

The GEK1500 expendable engine program led by GE Aerospace and Kratos aims to deliver a cost-effective propulsion solution for future unmanned combat aircraft and missile platforms. Leveraging experience from...

February 24, 2026
Admin
Unmanned Systems
Mergers & JV

General Atomics Reveals Dark Merlin UAV

The Dark Merlin unmanned aircraft from General Atomics is being developed as a loyal wingman system capable of operating alongside manned fighter jets. With advanced autonomy, extended range, and...