The Austrian company Schiebel has introduced an improved rotary-wing UAV S-300 with anti-submarine capabilities

At the Paris Air Show 2025, the Austrian company Schiebel demonstrated a new enhanced configuration of its unmanned aerial vehicle with an S-300 rotary-wing engine. The platform is now equipped with an L3HARRIS WESCAM MX-10 turret, an IMSAR NSP-3 radar, an additional optical system in the bow, and an anti-submarine warfare (ASW) sonar buoy. These innovations transform the S-300 from a traditional reconnaissance vehicle into a full-fledged system of multi-domain maritime surveillance and underwater warfare.

Technical features and capabilities

- The L3HARRIS WESCAM MX-10 turret provides high-quality electrostatic and infrared imaging, improving surveillance and targeting capabilities.

- The IMSAR NSP-3 radar with multifunctional operating modes (SAR, MTI, CCD) allows for effective detection and tracking of marine and ground targets in all weather conditions.

- A secondary optical system in the bow expands the range of reconnaissance capabilities and improves navigation accuracy.

- The ASW hydroacoustic buoy allows you to perform tasks of detecting and classifying submarines, which previously was the prerogative of only manned helicopters and large offshore platforms.

The extended payload and versatility of the S-300 make it a unique tool for maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare, especially for small naval forces that do not have the resources to operate manned ASW helicopters. The compactness and the possibility of vertical takeoff and landing make it possible to use UAVs from ships of small and medium tonnage without the need for an airfield.

With the new equipment, the S-300 meets the growing demand for multifunctional, cost-effective and efficient means of monitoring and combating underwater threats in the context of the escalating geopolitical situation in offshore areas such as the Baltic and Red Seas. The integration of advanced American and European sensors also ensures compatibility with NATO systems.

Can C-130 Hercules use heavy-duty GBU-57 munitions to destroy Iranian bunkers?

C-130 Hercules 

Heavy-duty Penetrating Ammunition GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator (MOP) It is considered one of the most effective means of destroying deeply buried and protected objects. Its mass is about  14 tons , and the warhead is almost  2.4 tons of explosives. So far, the only carrier capable of using this munition has been the B-2 Spirit strategic bomber.

However, in the face of the growing threat from Iran and its nuclear program, as well as the need to strike well-protected underground facilities such as the Fordo Research Center, military experts are increasingly considering the use of other platforms, including C-130 Hercules transport aircraft.

Theoretically, the C-130 has sufficient payload capacity to carry GBU-57, especially if we talk about the modifications of the C-130J Super Hercules family, which have reinforced landing gear, improved engines and advanced avionics. The problem lies not so much in the technical feasibility of the drop, but in  accuracy of guidance,  height of the drop, maneuverability of the aircraft and  vulnerability to air defense  when approaching the target.

Unlike the B-2, which can penetrate deep into enemy territory due to its unobtrusive characteristics, C-130 — subsonic transport aircraft with high radar visibility. This makes it extremely vulnerable when performing combat missions over an area with advanced air defense systems.

However, in certain scenarios the C-130 can act as a logistical carrier, delivering MOP ammunition to forward bases, from where they can be used by more suitable carriers such as B—1B Lancer or the promising B-21 Raider. Options for equipping specialized versions of the C-130 with guidance systems and automated drop equipment are also being considered, which could potentially expand their combat capabilities.

Thus, although the C-130 will not replace the B-2 as the main means of striking the most protected targets, it can become an important element in the logistical and operational support of such operations, especially in conditions of a limited number of stealth bombers.

The Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia approved the purchase of 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles

ASCOD

The Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia has decided to approve the proposal of the Ministry of Defense to purchase an additional 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles. This step is aimed at strengthening the country's defense capability and modernizing the ground forces.

Features of ASCOD Combat Vehicles

- Origin and characteristics: ASCOD is a modern infantry fighting vehicle developed jointly by Austria and Spain. The machine is characterized by high mobility, crew protection and the ability to equip various types of weapons.

- Multifunctional: ASCOD can be used for infantry transportation, fire support, and reconnaissance missions.

- NATO compatibility: The vehicles fully comply with NATO standards, which is important for the integration of Latvian troops into the collective defense.

The purchase of additional infantry fighting vehicles will allow Latvia to increase the combat readiness and efficiency of its armed forces, as well as strengthen its position in the framework of regional security against the background of growing challenges in Eastern Europe.