R&D - Weeklydefencenews

February 9, 2026
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Unmanned Systems

New Red Cat USV Adds Stand-Off Strike

Red Cat Holdings has unveiled the V7 unmanned surface vessel, reinforcing its strategic push into autonomous maritime strike systems. Produced by its Blue Ops division, the 26-foot USV is...

February 7, 2026
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Unmanned Systems

US Marine Corps 3D-Printed FPV Drone (HANX)

The Marine Corps’ approval of the 3D-printed HANX FPV drone marks a significant step toward secure, in-house unmanned system development. Designed by a Marine and built to meet NDAA...

February 6, 2026
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Communication and Electronics

New Ranger Radar Line Unveiled by FLIR

FLIR’s enhanced Ranger radar variants now provide higher scan rates and reduced blind spots, boosting response time and tracking accuracy for critical security and counter-UAS operations.

February 6, 2026
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Air Platforms

CH-53K Helicopters Get Elbit Systems Boost

Elbit Systems will equip Israel’s future CH-53K heavy-lift helicopters with advanced command-and-control, avionics, and directional infrared countermeasure systems under a $130-million agreement. The upgrades aim to enhance survivability and...

February 6, 2026
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Naval Platforms

Columbia Sub: Backbone of US Nuclear Deterrent

America’s next-generation Columbia-class SSBN will sustain the sea-based leg of the nuclear triad as older Ohio-class boats retire. Equipped with advanced acoustic quieting, secure communications, and a reactor that...

February 5, 2026
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Air Platforms

Private Firms Invited to India Fighter Program

India has advanced its AMCA fighter program by selecting three private-sector-led consortia to compete for prototype development, marking a structural shift away from sole reliance on state-owned aerospace production....

February 3, 2026
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Missile & Missile Defence

Next-Generation Raytheon Short-Range Interceptor Passes Key Test

Raytheon has announced that its Next Generation Short Range Interceptor, intended as a replacement for the US Army’s Stinger missile, has successfully completed a ballistic test. The internally funded...

February 3, 2026
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Communication and Electronics

New Systems Enhance Threat Awareness Across US Naval Fleet

US Navy ships could soon benefit from improved threat awareness as DARPA contracts RTX’s Raytheon to develop an advanced sensing and targeting system. The planned capability will integrate electro-optical/infrared...

February 2, 2026
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Land Platforms

Thales UK Rolls Out New Sensor Suite for Armored Platform Awareness

DARPA is developing an advanced robotic medical concept designed to operate within the human body, enabling it to locate critical injuries and deliver immediate treatment—significantly improving survival prospects for...

February 2, 2026
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Missile & Missile Defence

THAAD Production to Surge Fourfold as Lockheed Martin Scales Up

Lockheed Martin has joined with the US Department of Defense to dramatically expand production of THAAD interceptors, responding to rising demand for advanced missile-defence capabilities across the United States...