Geopolitics & Defense
LeoLabs Deploys Mobile Radar to Track Space Objects
LeoLabs has successfully deployed its innovative mobile radar system, Scout Hawaii, which became operational in June 2026, marking a major milestone in tracking space objects. This transportable radar, fitting neatly into a standard container, is already providing valuable data to the company's space monitoring network.
Boeing Unveils Upgraded Ghost Bat Drone with Internal AMRAAM Capability
Boeing has unveiled the upgraded Ghost Bat Drone, now with internal AMRAAM capability, offering Germany a cutting-edge collaborative combat aircraft. The Block 3 iteration boasts a 25% larger wing and 20% more thrust, giving operators unparalleled flexibility to tailor their mission payload and endurance.
Germany Weighs Drone Options Amid FCAS Fallout
As Germany ramps up its military capabilities in an era of rapid change, all eyes are on which drone wingman will be chosen to support its bold new plans. The question hung over the Berlin Air Show, where vendors showcased their top picks for the role.
Nations Scramble to Build Critical Mineral Supply Chain Resilience
The conversation about critical minerals is no longer about "if" but "how" - and the Darwin Dialogue 2026 brought together global leaders to shift the focus from diagnosis to delivery. The big question now is why democratic economies struggle to build resilient supply chains at scale and speed.
China Warns Australia on Critical Minerals Push
China is hitting back at Australia's critical minerals push, slamming Treasurer Jim Chalmers' decision to force China-linked investors to sell their stakes in rare earths developer Northern Minerals as "irrational de-sinicisation". This move has significant implications for Australia's defence, manufacturing, and renewable energy sectors.
Lawmakers Urged to Override Trump's Anti-Union Order at Pentagon
The American Federation of Government Employees is urging House lawmakers to override President Trump's executive order that strips collective bargaining rights from most federal employees, a move that would undermine the rights of workers to negotiate for better working conditions.
Space Force Awards $437.7 Million for Anti-Jam Satellites
The US Space Force has awarded $437.7 million to Viasat and Intelsat to develop anti-jam satellites, a crucial component of its resilient communication architecture that will enable tactical warfighters to stay connected in denied environments. This move is a significant step towards countering emerging threats and ensuring secure communication.
Senate Appropriators Warn Against Defense Reconciliation Bill Reliance
Relying on a third reconciliation bill to fund defense programs is a risky move that could create instability, according to Senate Appropriators, who are instead pushing for base funding through the defense appropriations bill.
China Exports Type 59 Tanks to Cambodia
Cambodia is bolstering its military with 39 Type 59D main battle tanks from China, with a total of 93 tanks planned for delivery. This significant shipment showcases the enduring popularity of the Type 59 tank on the global market.
Lockheed Martin Offers HIMARS to France with Accelerated Timeline
Lockheed Martin is offering France a game-changing deal: get the advanced HIMARS system within just 18 months if a contract is signed, with a significant portion of launchers set to arrive by 2028.
US Pressures Oman, Risks Eroding Key Gulf Mediator Role
President Donald Trump's reported threat to blow up Oman has raised concerns that the US may be jeopardizing a crucial diplomatic channel with Iran, one that has helped prevent escalation for decades. By pressuring Oman to cut ties with Tehran, the US risks eroding its role as a trusted mediator in the Gulf.
US Navy Drone Boat Rescues Apache Crew Near Strait of Hormuz
In a daring rescue near the Strait of Hormuz, a US Navy drone boat sprang into action, saving two crew members from a downed US Army AH-64 Apache helicopter just two hours after the crash, with the soldiers now in stable condition. The incident is under investigation, but this heroic operation marks a groundbreaking milestone for the Navy's unmanned rescue capabilities.
NRO Boosts BlackSky Contract for AI-Optimized Satellite Imagery
The NRO is supercharging its partnership with BlackSky Technologies, pouring an 8-figure investment into AI-optimized satellite imagery to turbocharge America's intelligence edge. This fresh funding fuels the development of BlackSky's game-changing AROS satellites, blazing a trail for faster, smarter global monitoring.
Airbus Unveils Ravenstorm Combat Drone in Expanded Portfolio
Meet the Ravenstorm, a cutting-edge combat drone that's part of Airbus' bold new lineup of uncrewed systems designed to supercharge air power. With its expanded portfolio, Airbus is empowering nations to defend their skies like never before.
Oshkosh Seeks to Fill Marine JLTV Readiness Gaps with New Bid
Oshkosh Defense is stepping up to help the Marine Corps bridge critical readiness gaps with its combat-proven JLTV A1, a production-ready vehicle that can be delivered quickly. By leveraging its existing production capabilities, Oshkosh aims to provide a reliable solution to the Marines' urgent need for a trusted vehicle.
Ukraine Unleashes AI-Powered Drone Strikes on Russian Logistics
Meet the game-changing AI-powered drones taking the fight to Russian logistics, striking at the heart of their supply chain with precision and stealth. Ukraine's innovative tactics are redefining modern warfare, one targeted hit at a time.
Defense Funding in Jeopardy as Reconciliation Bill Fades
Defense funding is in limbo after Senate leaders, including Appropriations Chairman Susan Collins and Senator Mitch McConnell, effectively ruled out a third reconciliation bill, dashing Pentagon hopes for a boost in next year's budget. This development puts crucial defense funding in jeopardy.
US Navy Deploys Drone Boat in High-Stakes Rescue of Downed Apache Crew
In a daring rescue off the coast of Oman, a cutting-edge drone boat called the Saronic Corsair played a crucial role in saving the lives of two US Army aviators whose Apache helicopter had gone down. This 24-foot autonomous vessel, capable of reaching speeds of 35 knots, proved its worth in a high-stakes operation.
Coast Guard Deploys Saildrone USVs to Bolster Northern Border Surveillance
This year, the Coast Guard will deploy 16 Saildrone Voyager unmanned surface vessels to enhance border surveillance in the Great Lakes and North Atlantic, helping to close gaps in visibility and support critical rescue and interdiction missions. The Saildrone Voyagers will monitor for suspicious activity, flagging potential threats and empowering Coast Guard personnel to respond quickly and effectively.
AUKUS Revitalizes Australia-Britain Ties Beyond Submarines
As Australia and Britain strengthen their historic ties through AUKUS, it's time to shift the conversation beyond submarines and explore the deeper connections that unite these nations. By embracing shared values and collective resolve, the partnership can unlock a brighter future for both countries.
Navy Drone Boat Rescues Downed Helicopter Crew at Sea
In a groundbreaking rescue, a Navy drone boat swiftly came to the aid of a downed AH-64 Apache helicopter crew at sea, showcasing the game-changing potential of manned-unmanned teaming. The Corsair unmanned surface vessel, operated by Task Force 59, expertly retrieved the crew and transferred them to safety.
US Launches Retaliatory Strikes Against Iran After Apache Downed
Tensions escalate in the Middle East as the US launches retaliatory strikes against Iran after a sophisticated Apache helicopter was shot down by an Iranian drone while patrolling the Strait of Hormuz. Fortunately, the crew was safely rescued in a daring operation involving a drone boat.
CENTCOM Chief Warns of Duty to Shield Civilians in Conflict Zones
As a professional fighting force, protecting civilian life is deeply ingrained in our culture and guides every aspect of our operations, from planning to execution. CENTCOM leaders are now being urged to prioritize this duty, making it clear that shielding civilians isn't just a restraint, but a fundamental part of the mission.
Trump Order Strips 8,000 Federal Workers of Civil Service Protections
In just one week, 8,000 federal workers face a major shake-up that could strip them of their civil service protections, a change that's sparked fierce opposition from unions, employees, and watchdogs. The Trump order requires agencies to reclassify these workers into a new category that leaves them vulnerable to removal without the usual safeguards.