R&D - Weeklydefencenews

March 3, 2026
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Training and Simulation

XR Platform Debuts for Finnish Forces

Varjo is expanding immersive defense training capabilities with its Integrated XR Systems solution tailored for military users operating in remote or restricted locations. The all-in-one platform integrates hardware, software...

March 2, 2026
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Missile & Missile Defence

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...

March 2, 2026
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Air Platforms

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
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Naval Platforms

Italy Begins Construction of U212 Sub

Construction of Italy’s next-generation U212 NFS submarine fleet has progressed with the keel-laying of the first vessel at Fincantieri’s La Spezia facility. Designed to modernize the Italian Navy’s underwater...

February 27, 2026
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Land Platforms

Babcock Starts 4th Type 31 Build

Babcock International advanced the Type 31 frigate build schedule by cutting steel for HMS Bulldog and finalizing assembly of HMS Active. The modular shipbuilding approach allows systems installation before...

February 26, 2026
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Naval Platforms

Barracuda Sub Begins French Sea Trials

France has moved a step closer to modernizing its undersea fleet as Naval Group commenced sea trials of De Grasse, the fourth submarine in the Barracuda program. The trials...

February 26, 2026
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Communication and Electronics

Israel Boosts Combat Intelligence With AI

Israel has expanded its military artificial intelligence capabilities by assigning 20 newly certified AI specialists to frontline and intelligence units. The personnel graduated from an intensive training program conducted...

February 26, 2026
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Unmanned Systems

MANDRILL UGV Targets Multi-Mission Roles

At Enforce Tac 2026, Quantum Systems revealed the MANDRILL unmanned ground vehicle, highlighting Germany’s growing focus on autonomous land warfare technologies. Designed as a multi-role robotic platform, MANDRILL performs...

February 25, 2026
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Air Platforms

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
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Naval Platforms

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...