The US Army is installing new smart radios from BAE Systems on all helicopters

Why are old radio stations no longer trending?

If in the 90s a regular radio was enough for the "arrived at the point" report, now the picture is different. Modern battlefields are not only bullets and missiles, but also dense electronic warfare. Enemy systems jam frequencies, determine location by signal, and simulate transmissions. Older radio stations operating on fixed bands are becoming easy targets.

The US Army understood this. And now it's changing all helicopter communications to something smarter and more resilient.

MARS AN/ARC-231A is not just a communication, but a real—time adaptation

The new MARS (Multifunctional Advanced Radio System) AN/ARC-231A radio station from BAE Systems is not just a "voice transmission". It is a software-defined system that can change frequencies, modes, and protocols on the go. Imagine: a helicopter enters an area with strong interference — the radio station itself switches to a clear band, changes power, masks the signal.

It supports secure communication, operates in the UHF/VHF bands, is compatible with existing systems and, most importantly, allows you to transmit not only voice, but also data — coordinates, maps, video.

How a software-defined radio station works

The bottom line is that the hardware remains the same, but the brains are in the program. Instead of physically reconfiguring the circuit, the radio station changes its behavior using software. It's like a phone: it doesn't change the antenna when you switch from 4G to Wi-Fi, but just switches inside.

The AN/ARC-231A is able to work in conditions of strong signal suppression, use frequency hopping (FHSS), encrypt the channel, and even synthesize speech for automatic messages. All this is in one compact unit, which is already being installed on UH—60, CH-47, AH-64 and other machines.

Why is it necessary in battle

In a real mission, every second counts. The pilot cannot wait for the connection to "get better." He must speak, see, and transmit data — immediately and without interruption. MARS provides exactly this: a stable channel that does not disappear due to interference and does not give away the location.

In addition, when all helicopters are connected to one modern communication platform, they begin to work as a single network. One noticed the target and passed it on to the others. One came under fire — the system automatically redirects traffic. It's not just a connection anymore — it's part of a combat network.

Sources

1. Defence Industry Europe — U.S. Army deploys BAE Systems’ advanced MARS radios
2. Military Embedded — radio communications set fielded on U.S. Army rotary-wing craft
3. Wikipedia — AN/ARC-231
4. BAE Systems — mission-critical software-defined radios for rotary-wing fleet
5. BAE Systems — AN/ARC-231A RT-1987 datasheet (PDF)

The US Army is looking for contractors for the new Abrams M1E3 tank — production will be large-scale

What is changing in the new Abrams M1E3

The US Army has officially moved on to the next stage of creating the next—generation main battle tank, the Abrams M1E3. Instead of just updating old models, the military is now looking for industrial facilities capable of mass production. This means that we are not talking about dozens of cars, but hundreds. And not about another upgrade, but about a system that will differ in architecture, energy, and capabilities.

The new tank should be lighter, faster, with a powerful electrical network to pull lasers, active protection, and AI systems.

Who will be able to supply — and what is expected of him

The request has already been posted in the federal system through the office of PEO GCS (Program Contractor for Ground Combat Systems). Companies that want to participate must confirm their experience in the production of tracked combat vehicles — not just assembly, but a full cycle: from the hulls to the transmission and turrets.

General Dynamics (the creator of Abrams) and BAE Systems remain the main players, but now other manufacturers can join them. The main thing is to be ready for scale. The army doesn't want delays, as it did with other programs.

Why is it more important than just updating

M1E3 is not just a new version. This is an attempt to change the very logic of tank forces. Instead of driving more and more armor, the emphasis is on survivability: active protection, electronic suppression, optical masking. The new generation electrical system will allow for the installation of lasers and powerful radars in the future.

Another focus is maintainability. In a real battle, a tank must recover quickly on the field, rather than going to the rear for months.

What kind of tank will the army have in 10 years?

If all goes according to plan, the first M1E3S will enter service in the late 2020s. They will replace the obsolete M1A1 and partially replace the M1A2. The main goal is not just to keep up with Russian and Chinese tanks, but to stay ahead of them in terms of flexibility and adaptability.

The US Army understands that the future does not belong to heavy monsters, but to smart, resilient and quickly adaptable machines. And the Abrams M1E3 is the first step in this direction.

Sources

1. Topwar.ru — M1E3 project after SEPv4 cancellation
2. Calibre Defence — U.S. Army 30-month fielding plan for the M1E3 upgrade
3. Overclockers.ru — PEO GCS seeks industry partners with tank-production experience for M1E3
4. HigherGov — official PEO GCS market-research announcement
5. Telegram “btvt2019” — additional commentary
6. VK post — community discussion
7. Dzen article — further analysis

Europe builds 7 million m2 of new military plants: a sharp increase in production after the war in Ukraine

The large-scale re-equipment of Europe's defenses is taking tangible forms. According to the Financial Times, the area of new and expanding military production facilities in Europe has reached 7 million square meters, which is three times more than before the outbreak of the war in Ukraine. These conclusions are based on the analysis of more than a thousand satellite images provided by the European Space Agency (ESA), which cover the activities of 37 defense concerns.

The growth driver was the European Union's ASAP (Act in Support of Ammunition Production) initiative, launched to increase production of ammunition and missiles in response to the depletion of NATO stocks. The program has already had a significant effect: at 88 key sites, the building area has grown from 790,000 m2 in 2020-2021 to 2.8 million m2 in 2024-2025.

The largest projects:

 Hungary: Rheinmetall, together with N7 Holding, is building a large-scale factory that will produce 1.1 million 155 mm shells per year by 2027, compared with 70,000 in 2022. It will become one of the largest artillery production facilities in Europe.

- Norway: Kongsberg has opened a new factory for the production of missiles, including anti-ship and anti-aircraft systems.

- Finland: Nammo expands facilities at the Vihtavuori test site to increase production of ammunition and solid-fuel engines.

- United Kingdom: BAE Systems has increased production of 155 mm shells 16 times in recent years.

The European Commission is preparing a new program designed to complement ASAP and stimulate the production of not only ammunition, but also missiles, drones, and air and missile defense systems. This is necessary to restore strategic reserves and ensure the long-term sustainability of Europe's defense.

This industrial renewal marks a fundamental shift: Europe is moving from decades of cutting military spending to a strategy of mass and sustainable weapons production, preparing for possible future crises.

American armored cars will get smart and drone protection: BAE Systems is racing for the future of war

American military vehicles will soon become smarter, faster and more dangerous — and all this not at the expense of a larger caliber, but thanks to new technologies. BAE Systems, one of the main suppliers of US military equipment, is actively modernizing the armored multipurpose vehicle (AMPV) — and it is doing it on a grand scale.

The bottom line is this: instead of just carrying soldiers or shooting, the new AMPVS will have autonomous systems capable of helping the crew make decisions, as well as protection from enemy drones — because today one small quadcopter can drop a grenade directly on armored vehicles. And this is no joke.

BAE Systems is investing serious money to turn AMPV into a real "smart platform" — a kind of tank of the future on tracks. The plans include the integration of advanced defense and attack systems that will allow vehicles to stay ahead of the enemy on the battlefield: react faster, see the enemy better and survive in an environment where drones and electronic warfare rule the ball.

As Bill Sheehy, BAE's head of ground technology, said: "AMPV is the proving ground for the future of tracked combat vehicles." That is, what is currently being tested on this armor will appear in dozens of other vehicles tomorrow.

Simply put, war is no longer just about bullets and steel. Artificial intelligence, autonomy, and drone protection are now important. And AMPV is becoming one of the first "digital soldiers" on wheels — or, more precisely, on tracks.

BAE Systems has invested in a British startup: how AI from Oxford will get on tanks and ships

BAE Systems, the largest British defense company, has bet on the future — and this is the future with artificial intelligence and robots. The company has announced a strategic investment in Oxford Dynamics startup, a young but ambitious Oxford-based company that specializes in artificial intelligence and robotics. The goal is not just to support innovation, but to introduce advanced technologies into real combat systems as quickly as possible.

First of all, Oxford Dynamics' AI will get into the Prophesea platform, a digital "brain" that monitors the state of military equipment. This system is already helping the Navy, the Army and the British Air Force to keep ships, tanks and aircraft on alert, predicting breakdowns and optimizing maintenance. Now, thanks to the new AI, Prophesea will become even smarter.: He will be able to analyze data faster, identify anomalies and give more accurate recommendations — literally like a technician who knows his car by heart.

But this is just the beginning. Oxford Dynamics, founded in 2020, develops autonomous systems that not only process information, but make decisions in real time. Imagine: drones that coordinate actions themselves, intelligence systems that understand themselves what is happening on the battlefield and tell commanders what to do next. These are the technologies needed for modern conflicts — fast, complex, and overloaded with data.

BAE Systems emphasizes: This is not just a purchase of technology, but a step towards the UK's sovereign defense power. By working with local startups, the country reduces dependence on foreign supplies and creates high-tech jobs. At the same time, Oxford Dynamics will remain an independent company, and investments will help it scale and bring its solutions to new platforms, from submarines to satellites.

In the long term, Oxford's AI could end up in every BAE system, from radars to fire control systems. The idea is simple — to give the armed forces a decisive advantage due to speed, autonomy and stability in an environment where every millisecond slip can cost victory.

British "missile drone": TRV-150 with APKWS system can strengthen the Armed Forces

TRV-150

A new potentially powerful player for the Ukrainian armed forces has appeared on the horizon — the British heavy quadcopter TRV-150, capable of carrying high-precision missiles. BAE Systems has successfully tested this drone in the United States, and the results are impressive: the device has demonstrated the ability to hit both ground and air targets.

The secret of his fighting power lies in his weapons. The TRV-150 is equipped with APKWS II (Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II) missiles. This system transforms conventional 70mm Hydra unguided aircraft missiles into laser-guided point weapons. Due to this, the drone can hit armored vehicles, fortifications and other important objects with a high probability, minimizing the risks to its forces.

Of particular interest is the fact that the TRV-150 is a modified version of the already famous Malloy T—150 drone, which, as you know, is already actively used by the Armed Forces of Ukraine, in particular, as part of the famous Baba Yaga group. This means that the integration of the TRV-150 into Ukrainian units can be much faster and easier, as logistics and basic skills have already been worked out.

The APKWS laser guidance system allows the drone to be used not only in offensive operations, but also in defensive ones, for example, to destroy enemy kamikaze drones. His appearance on the Ukrainian front could be a serious tactical reinforcement, adding to the existing solutions another universal and accurate tool for the fight.

Tempest: the British-Italian-Japanese "hurricane" of the sixth generation and the future of the war on AI

Tempest

 BAE Systems, the leading British defense giant, has unveiled a project that could change the face of aerial combat for decades to come — the sixth-generation Tempest fighter. This prototype, being created as part of a large-scale international project involving the United Kingdom, Italy and Japan, is positioned as a real breakthrough in military aviation, but at the same time it causes serious debate about the future of weapons controlled by artificial intelligence (AI) and a new global arms race.

Tempest is not just a new aircraft, but a whole combat system. Its key features are the integration of artificial intelligence and the "Loyal Wingman" concept. AI will assist the pilot in making decisions by analyzing huge streams of data in real time, as well as controlling accompanying unmanned "partners" who can act as advanced scouts, jammers or carriers of additional weapons. Tempest itself is designed to perform missions in both manned and fully unmanned mode, providing incredible flexibility.

Advanced technologies such as 3D printing and digital modeling are used to accelerate and reduce the cost of development and production. This allows for faster testing and implementation of new components.

The main goal of the project is not only to create an aircraft capable of dominating future air battles, but also to transform air warfare methods, making them more networked, autonomous and deadly. However, it is precisely this autonomy that causes concern: where is the line between an AI assistant and an AI killer? Nevertheless, the race for the sixth generation has already begun, and Tempest is one of the main contenders for leadership.

Italy buys "electronic shields": two new EA-37B Compass Calls for 300 million

EA-37B Compass Call 

The Italian Air Force has made a serious bet on modern technology — they have officially confirmed the purchase of two EA-37B Compass Call electronic warfare aircraft. These are powerful aerial platforms capable of jamming enemy radio signals, suppressing communications, interfering with drone control, and even disabling enemy air defense systems. Simply put, it is an "invisible weapon" of a new generation.

Rome is ready to invest about $300 million in this deal, and this is not just a fleet upgrade — it is a strategic step to enhance the electronic stability and combat effectiveness of the Italian Air Force. Aircraft based on the Gulfstream G550 business jet will be used both in combat operations and in support of allied missions, especially within the framework of NATO.

Of particular interest is the fact of the sale itself: This is the first time in history that the U.S. government has approved the transfer of such a high-tech electronic warfare platform to one of its foreign allies. Previously, EA-37B (and their predecessors EC-130H) strictly remained in the arsenal of the US Air Force. Now Italy will become the first foreign operator.

The project is being implemented in partnership between L3Harris, the main contractor and developer of electronic warfare systems, and BAE Systems, which is responsible for the integration and protection of onboard systems. Such cooperation ensures that Italian cars will receive the same level of technology as American ones.

The EA-37B is not just an aircraft with "loudspeakers". It is capable of purposefully attacking enemy communications, interfering with tactical networks, creating interference in the range from VHF to microwave and at the same time remaining at a safe distance from the front line. This makes them incredibly valuable in modern conflicts, where control over the electromagnetic spectrum decides the outcome of the battle.

For Italy, it is also a step towards greater independence in the defense sector and an opportunity to participate more effectively in international operations. The first planes are expected to enter service in the next few years.

BAE Systems tested point bombs from the Malloy T-150 drone

TRV-150

BAE Systems has recently taken a big step forward in the world of military drones: they have successfully tested precision-guided munitions launched from a multi-rotor drone. We are talking about a modified version of the Malloy T-150 quadcopter, which was renamed the TRV-150. This device has long attracted attention for its lifting capacity and stability in the air, but now it has also become shock-resistant.

What is impressive is that the drone was able to accurately drop small guided munitions on the target, demonstrating high accuracy and reliability. Such ammunition is designed specifically to minimize collateral damage — that is, to hit exactly the target and not cause havoc around. This is especially important in urban combat or when working near civilian facilities.

The TRV-150 is not just a toy. This is a heavy drone with the ability to carry a payload, and now it can also perform combat missions. Its advantage is vertical take—off and landing, like a helicopter, but with easier controls and less visibility. And the modular design allows you to quickly change the payload: from cameras to weapons.

BAE Systems is positioning this as part of a new concept of "hybrid mobility" — where a drone can both scout and strike while remaining flexible and responsive to changes on the battlefield. This is especially true for units that need to respond quickly to threats without using heavy machinery.

The tests were successful, and now the company is looking towards partnerships with armies and law enforcement agencies. The ability to use precision weapons from a relatively cheap and maneuverable drone can change the tactics of warfare at the tactical level.

In general, the world of drones is getting more serious — and the TRV-150 from BAE Systems clearly claims to be one of the main players.

Germany lifted the ban: Turkey is now allowed to buy Eurofighter Typhoon fighters

 

Eurofighter Typhoon

The long-awaited "good" has finally been received. Germany has officially lifted its veto on the sale of modern Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets to Turkey, a move that has long blocked the deal. Now the way for supplies is open, and Ankara can begin negotiations on the purchase of up to 40 aircraft.

Turkey used to be completely isolated on this issue. Despite the fact that the Eurofighter is produced by a consortium of four countries — Germany, Great Britain, Italy and Spain — the sale to each new buyer requires the consent of all participants. And Berlin has been the "brake" in recent years: due to disagreements with Ankara on a number of issues, including military operations in Syria, purchases of Russian weapons (like the S-400) and domestic policy, the Germans did not give the green light.

Now the position has changed. Most likely, this is due to common interests within NATO: Turkey is a key player on the southern flank of the alliance, and its strengthening with modern Western fighters (instead of Russian or Chinese analogues) is beneficial to everyone. Plus, there is pressure from other partners, especially the UK and Italy, who have been waiting for a lucrative contract for a long time.

The Eurofighter Typhoon is one of Europe's most advanced combat aircraft: super—maneuverable, with powerful radar and the ability to carry a wide range of weapons. This is a chance for Turkey to upgrade its aging F-16 fleet and strengthen its air defenses, especially amid tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.

So now that Germany has agreed, the deal can be finalized in the coming months. Turkey will receive a powerful strike resource, and Europe will be confident that one of its key allies remains on "our side" technologically.

The British Ministry of Defense supports the export of Typhoons due to the lack of new orders

Despite the fact that the UK has no plans to purchase new Eurofighter Typhoon fighters for its own Air Force, the country's Ministry of Defense actively supports export deals involving these aircraft. This is due to the fact that the aircraft manufacturing plant in Wharton, where the Typhoons are assembled, must remain busy, and the production lines must work without stopping.

BAE Systems, the British partner of the European consortium Eurofighter GmbH, has been promoting Typhoons on international markets for a long time. However, there have been no recent new orders from the British military themselves. Instead, all attention is focused on finding foreign buyers in order to preserve not only production, but also the jobs associated with this project.

The Typhoon is one of the most famous fourth—generation fighters created by the joint efforts of Great Britain, Germany, Italy and Spain. It combines the capabilities of both an air combat fighter and a carrier for striking ground targets. However, with a shrinking budget and growing interest in the more expensive and technologically advanced F-35, the Typhoon now needs external demand to remain relevant in the military aviation market.

Several countries are currently showing interest in a possible purchase, including:

- Indonesia — in 2023 , it signed a preliminary agreement for the supply of 42 aircraft .  

- Saudi Arabia and Qatar — both countries are already operating Typhoons and may expand the fleet.  

- Negotiations are also possible with Greece, which has recently renovated its fleet, but does not exclude further purchases.

The British authorities emphasize that the export of Typhoons is not just the sale of weapons, but part of a broader strategy: keeping the defense sector in working order, supporting the country's export potential and strengthening ties with allies.  

In addition, the Ministry of Defense sees this as an economic interest: saving jobs, developing a technological base and stimulating the defense sector, especially in regions where the aviation industry is one of the key employers.

If new contracts can be concluded, production at Wharton can continue until the 2030s, which will make it possible to safely plan the transition to new projects, including the upcoming sixth-generation Tempest fighter, which is under development.

Thus, the Typhoon remains an important part of the British aviation industry, even if the UK itself no longer buys them for itself. An active export policy allows not only to support business, but also to strengthen military cooperation with partners around the world.

Great Britain is building new SSN-AUKUS nuclear submarines

The British decided to upgrade their submarine fleet in a really serious way. They launched a program to create new multipurpose nuclear submarines — the project was named SSN-AUKUS. This is a replacement for the old Astute-type submarines, and they will be built as part of a large-scale cooperation within the AUKUS military-political bloc.

Work on this project began back in 2018, but it wasn't until 2023 that everything became more concrete — the first contracts, money, and plans appeared. The British government has allocated an additional 5 billion pounds to accelerate the development of the program.

The main players in the program are BAE Systems, Rolls—Royce and Babcock, which received about 4 billion pounds in design and pre-production alone.  

And in January 2025, a high-profile Unity contract was signed between the Ministry of Defense and Rolls-Royce worth about 8 billion pounds. The task is to develop and maintain nuclear installations for new submarines. Simply put, Rolls-Royce will focus on the most important technologies related to the new series of reactors.

The Babcock company also does not stand aside. She recently published a report where she announced two new orders.:

1. The first is related to the purchase of combat systems from the United States, including 36 launchers similar to those on the American Columbia submarines.

2. The second is the supply and maintenance of Tomahawk cruise missiles adapted for submarines.

This means that the British submarines will be equipped not just with modern weapons, but with proven combat systems that have already proven themselves in other countries.

Australia officially joined the project in 2023. She is ready to invest another 2.4 billion pounds to modernize production facilities in the UK and then get her own boats. In other words, the project is becoming not just a British, but a full-fledged international affair.

At first, the project was called Maritime Underwater Future Capability, then it was renamed the Submersible Ship Nuclear Replacement, and in early 2023 the SSN name was finally chosen-AUKUS — to emphasize its connection with the new union of Great Britain, the USA and Australia.

It is expected that new contracts will appear in the near future — it will be necessary to negotiate components, construction, testing. In fact, the foundation is now being laid for the future of the British submarine fleet, which should serve until the end of the 21st century.

Thus, SSN-AUKUS is not just new submarines, but a whole generation of marine technology that can change the balance of power in the oceans for the coming decades.

BAE Systems received $48 million for VLS MK 41 containers for the USA, Australia and Japan

 

BAE Systems Land & Armaments LP of Minneapolis, Minnesota, has received a $48 million amendment to an earlier contract for the production of containers for the MK 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) and auxiliary equipment. 

According to the Ministry of Defense, the contract includes purchases for the United States (78%), as well as for the governments of Australia (21%) and Japan (1%) under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program. The contract is supervised by the Naval Systems Command, based in Washington, DC.

Work under the agreement will be performed in Aberdeen, South Dakota (90%), and Minneapolis, Minnesota (10%), with an expected completion date of February 2028.

BAE Systems Collaborates with US Army to Develop M109-52 Self-Propelled Howitzer Prototype

M109-52

 BAE Systems is working with the U.S. Army to develop a prototype self-propelled howitzer (SPH) M109-52. This prototype uses the chassis and turret from the M109A7 and combines them with the Rheinmetall L52 155 mm cannon. This gun is the same as the one installed on the very successful PzH2000, which was largely used in Ukraine. 

The partnership is a Joint Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) between BAE and the U.S. Army Combat Capability Development Command (DEVCOM-AC) Weapons Center, which allows the two organizations to work together on system development.

The M109-52 was originally a project independently funded by BAE, which anticipated the army's interest. Previously, DEVCOM-AC managed the Extended Range Cannon Artillery program, which developed the XM1299 self-propelled artillery system with a record-breaking 58 caliber cannon. This system demonstrated a remarkable firing range, but problems with barrel wear and suspension deformation led to the cancellation in 2024, as a result of which the army began to look for a new self-propelled artillery installation.

BAE Systems has opened a new artillery factory in Sheffield worth 25 million pounds

 

BAE Systems has officially launched a new artillery factory in Sheffield, UK. This state-of-the-art 94,000 square foot facility was an important step in the restoration of gun barrel production in the country. Investments in the amount of 25 million pounds have created about 200 new skilled jobs, which will significantly strengthen the UK defense industry.

The new plant will become a British howitzer manufacturing center, which will reduce dependence on foreign supplies and increase the country's technological independence. Initially, the company will specialize in the production of barrels for light M777 howitzers, which are widely used by the British and Allied armed forces. Further expansion of production is planned to support other artillery and combat systems.

The opening of the plant took place with the participation of British Defense Minister John Healey, who emphasized the strategic importance of this project for national security and the economy. According to him, the creation of new jobs and the development of high-tech manufacturing in Sheffield is an excellent example of successful cooperation between the government and the defense industry.

The plant is planned to be put into operation by the end of this year. Once launched, it will play a key role in providing the British armed forces with modern artillery systems, as well as becoming a hub for innovation and advanced technology in the production of military equipment.

In addition to strengthening defense capabilities, the BAE Systems project will have a positive impact on the economy of the Sheffield region. The creation of 200 new skilled jobs will boost the development of local industry and increase employment. In addition, the plant will attract specialists and engineers, which will contribute to the development of scientific and technical potential and an innovative environment in the region.

The opening of the new BAE Systems artillery factory in Sheffield is a significant event for the UK defense industry. Investments in manufacturing, job creation and technology development will strengthen national security and provide the armed forces with modern and reliable weapons. This project demonstrates the country's commitment to technological independence and the support of highly skilled labor, which is the key to a successful future for the defense sector.

BAE Systems and Hanwha Systems join forces to create Azalea multi-sensor intelligence network

On June 10, 2025, BAE Systems and the South Korean conglomerate Hanwha Systems announced a partnership agreement to explore the possibility of integrating advanced technologies within the framework of the Azalea project, a planned grouping of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets by the British Ministry of Defense.

BAE Systems will provide its synthetic aperture radar (SAR) technology and ultra-broadband radio frequency (RF) technology, while Hanwha Systems will provide its expertise in search and rescue. Together, the companies plan to create a multi-sensor network that will use on-board satellite processors to ensure fast and reliable information exchange.

The Azalea project aims to increase the effectiveness of military operations and improve disaster response by integrating various data sources and creating a single information platform. Such a network will make it possible to quickly obtain accurate intelligence information in real time, which will significantly enhance the capabilities of the British armed forces and emergency response services.

The US Space Force has signed a $1.2 billion contract with BAE Systems for missile tracking satellites

The U.S. Space Force has signed a $1.2 billion contract with BAE Systems Space and Mission Systems to supply 10 missile tracking satellites. The contract was concluded on May 29 under a fixed price and other Transaction authority (OTA) agreement, according to a press release from the Space Systems Command on June 2.

This initiative is part of the Resilient Missile Warning Tracking Epoch 2 (RMWT Epoch 2) program, which represents the second phase of the US Space Force's efforts to create and develop a network of satellites tracking missile threats in medium Earth orbit (MEO).

The satellites supplied under this contract will provide more stable and reliable detection and tracking of ballistic and other missile threats, which will enhance the early warning and defense capabilities of the United States and its allies.

The placement of satellites in medium Earth orbit makes it possible to expand coverage and reduce the vulnerability of the tracking system compared to traditional geostationary platforms.

The RMWT Epoch 2 program is a key element of the modernization of the US space infrastructure and reflects the growing importance of outer space in ensuring national security.

The upgraded F-15E will be able to destroy up to 42 UAVs per flight using APKWS II missiles

 The US Air Force is experimenting with new weapons for the F-15E Strike Eagle fighter-bomber, planning to equip them with inexpensive, high-precision guided missiles to combat UAVs in the future, including laser-guided APKWS II projectiles. Thus, in the future, the payload increases to 42 guided munitions. Combined with the standard arsenal of air-to-air missiles, this expands the Strike Eagle's capabilities to combat drones and low-flying cruise missiles.

The Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II (APKWS II), also known as the AGR-20, was developed in the early 2000s to turn standard Hydra 70 unguided missiles into precision-guided weapons. Created by the BAE Systems team in collaboration with Northrop Grumman and General Dynamics, the system retained most of the rocket's parts — the engine, warhead and fuse — but added a guidance unit. Designed to improve accuracy and efficiency, the APKWS II helps reduce collateral damage and reduces logistical burden by 50% due to compatibility with the Hydra 70.

In early 2025, BAE Systems released an upgraded version of the APKWS II rocket, equipped with an infrared homing head. This addition allows the missile to capture the target's thermal signature after laser illumination, which increases its ability to hit fast or maneuverable objects, such as certain types of barrage munitions, IE reports.

The new weapons are designed for situations where traditional air-to—air missiles — each costing hundreds of thousands of dollars - may prove unsuitable or too expensive for large-scale battles.

The APKWS II is already used as an armament for many aircraft and helicopters, including the F-16, A-10, F/A-18 and Apache. The F-15E aircraft provides greater range and payload compared to the light multi-role F-16 fighters. With the APKWS II system, it turns into a multi-purpose target destruction platform capable of carrying more ammunition and staying in a combat zone for longer.

Last month, China unveiled its new sixth-generation fighter jet, the J-36, which is significantly larger and heavier than existing fifth-generation aircraft. According to Chinese media, the length of this new stealth aircraft is about 23 meters, and its weight ranges from 45 to 54 tons.

 F-15E Strike Eagle fighter-bomber

BAE Systems unveiled the CV90 combat vehicle at DEFEA 2025 in Athens

 

CV90

At the international defense exhibition DEFEA 2025, which took place from May 6 to May 8, 2025 at the Metropolitan Expo exhibition center in Athens, BAE Systems presented a wide range of solutions for land, sea and air forces.  

One of the key exhibits was a model of armored vehicles, the CV90 infantry fighting vehicle, which demonstrates advanced technologies and combat capabilities in demand in modern conditions. BAE Systems' participation in the exhibition highlights its strategic cooperation with Greece and other allies to modernize the armed forces and enhance the region's defense capabilities.  

The presence of the CV90 at DEFEA 2025 is particularly relevant in the context of Greece's plans to upgrade its fleet of armored vehicles. The country is actively working on army modernization programs, including the purchase of modern infantry fighting vehicles, which makes such events an important platform for evaluating possible technological partners.  

The DEFEA 2025 exhibition brought together the world's leading defense industry players from Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, becoming a significant event for establishing new contacts, demonstrating innovations and strengthening international military-technical cooperation.  

BAE Systems and WZM sign license agreement to support M88A2 armored recovery vehicles

BAE Systems has announced a licensing agreement with Wojskowe Zakłady Motoryzacyjne S.A. (WZM), a leading Polish defense company, to provide maintenance and support services for M88A2 armored recovery vehicles in service with the Polish Ground Forces.

Details of the agreement

- Objective: The agreement is aimed at increasing the operational readiness of the fleet of armored repair and evacuation vehicles (BREM) M88A2 of the Polish Ground Forces.

- WZM's Role: WZM, part of PGZ Capital Group, will use BAE Systems' intellectual property to perform maintenance, repair, and overhaul tasks.

- Support for the Polish Defense Industry: The Agreement highlights the importance of the Polish defense industry in supporting the newly acquired assets and contributes to strengthening the local economy.