Elbit Systems is developing an aviation version of the Iron Beam laser system for Israeli fighter jets

Israel launches laser weapons into the air: Elbit is working on an aerial version of Iron Beam

The Israeli defense concern Elbit Systems has begun developing an aviation modification of the Iron Beam laser missile defense system. While the ground-based version of the system is already being tested as part of the Iron Dome ecosystem, its technology is now being adapted for installation on board Israeli Air Force combat aircraft.

This step marks the transition from ground-based laser systems to aerial platforms capable of protecting not only stationary objects, but also aircraft themselves from drones, missiles and other small-scale threats.

How does the Iron Beam work and why is it important to get it into the air

Iron Beam is a directed energy system that uses a high—power laser to destroy targets at short ranges. It is effective against:

Tactical Drones (UAV)

Rockets (like Qassam)

of Small cruise missiles

On the ground, the system complements Iron Dome radars and missiles, reducing the cost of interception. In the air, its task is to defend the fighter and protect a group of aircraft from drone attacks, especially in conditions of intense electronic warfare, where traditional means can be suppressed.

Possible platforms: F-16, F-15 and F-Although Elbit Systems does not officially disclose which aircraft will be equipped with the aerial Iron Beam, analysts suggest that potential carriers may be:

The F-16 Barak is the backbone of the Air Force fleet and is being actively upgraded

The F-15 Baz is a heavy fighter aircraft with high energy output

The F-35 Adir is a fifth—generation stealth fighter where compactness and stealth are critical.

For the F-35, laser integration is particularly relevant: it will allow maintaining low radar visibility without using external suspensions, and at the same time increase survivability in the face of growing threats from drones.

Technical challenges and prospects

Transferring a laser system to an aircraft is a difficult engineering task. She demands:

A compact but powerful laser module

Efficient cooling system

Reliable energy source

High-precision vibration and speed guidance system

However, advances in laser miniaturization and the development of solid-state systems make the project realistic. According to experts, the first tests on the pilot platform may begin as early as 2026-2027.

The US Army launches a new program of robotic combat vehicles: accessibility and innovation

The US Army is making a new attempt to introduce robotic combat vehicles (RCVS) to the market, but this time with an emphasis on accessibility. In a new request for information on unmanned ground-based commercial robotic vehicles, the service said it was eyeing platforms costing less than $650,000. This is a significant change in approach aimed at reducing costs and increasing the availability of advanced technologies for military needs.

New cost and functionality requirements

After two unsuccessful attempts to adopt combat robotic vehicles, the US Army decided to reconsider its requirements. A new notice to the industry indicates a desire to limit the cost of each unit to $650,000. This solution should encourage developers to offer more affordable and competitive solutions, which in turn can lead to innovations in the field of robotic systems.

Previous attempts and lessons

The US Army has previously attempted to introduce robotic combat vehicles, but they have not been successful. High costs and limited functionality were the main reasons for failures. This time, taking into account previous experience, the army is striving to create more flexible and accessible platforms that could be easily adapted to various military tasks.

Prospects and advantages of the new program

The new initiative opens up broad prospects for developers and manufacturers of robotic systems. Reducing cost constraints can attract more companies to participate in the program, which in turn promotes a competitive environment and innovation. For the army, this means access to more modern and effective technologies that can significantly increase combat readiness and efficiency.

Impact on the defense technology market

The introduction of new cost requirements for robotic combat vehicles may significantly affect the defense technology market. Companies developing and manufacturing such systems will be forced to rethink their strategies and find ways to reduce costs without compromising quality and functionality. This can lead to new partnerships and cooperation between companies, which ultimately will have a positive impact on the development of the industry.

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.

The Germans came with a "drone hunter": startup Alpine Eagle rushes to the UK

 

German startup Alpine Eagle from Munich has decided that it's time to conquer Britain — and not with Bavarian beer, but with serious defense technology. They are developing what they call the world's first anti-drone system... from the air. Does it sound like fiction? This is when one drone catches or knocks out another one — right in the sky.

Now the company has announced plans to expand its presence in the UK, where interest in such technologies has grown dramatically. The reason is simple: cheap but deadly disposable drones are increasingly flying on the battlefield, and conventional air defenses can't always handle them. And Alpine Eagle offers a fundamentally new approach — aerial drone hunting.

They appointed a serious man to the British division, Michael Golden, a former Royal Navy aerospace engineer. It's not just a personnel decision, it's a signal.: We are serious, we understand the military needs and we are ready to work with the army.

Their technology has already been tested — Alpine Eagle participated in the British Wanhai test project, which is being conducted by the Ministry of Defense. New methods of detecting and destroying UAVs were being tested there, including using advanced radars, electronic jamming, and aerial suppression systems.

The exercises were held jointly with the British and American militaries, and this is part of a broader NATO strategy to adapt to the new reality of war, where drones play a key role. Ukraine's experience has shown that even an army with a budget can be paralyzed by a flood of cheap drones.

Now countries are looking for an answer — and Alpine Eagle offers one of the most daring: not to wait for the drone to arrive, but to meet it in the air. If it works, it could change the rules of the game in drone defense.

France has signed a major contract for the supply of microdrones with artificial intelligence for the modernization of the army

France has taken an important and very timely step in updating its armed forces. Paris-based startup Harmattan AI has received a multimillion-dollar contract for the supply of 1,000 microdrones with artificial intelligence. These small but very smart drones are designed to help the French army become even more prepared and combat-ready, especially ahead of the large-scale multinational Orion 2026 exercises.

What makes this deal special?

- Advanced technology in the service of the army  

These micro drones don't just fly — they are equipped with artificial intelligence programs that allow them to independently perform complex tasks: reconnaissance, surveillance and support of troops right on the battlefield.

- Preparation at a new level  

With the help of such drones, the military will be able to work out a variety of scenarios — from routine operations to complex combat situations. This means that the soldiers will be ready for any eventuality and will be able to act faster and more accurately.

- Strategic advantage  

In a world where technology is developing at breakneck speed, the introduction of AI is becoming not just a plus, but a necessity. France thus retains its leadership and prepares for the challenges of the future.

Why Harmattan AI?

- Trust in the young and innovative 

The French army is not afraid to work with new companies and supports domestic developers. This gives an impetus to the development of technologies within the country and helps to create unique solutions.

- Artificial intelligence is the future of defense  

Every year, AI penetrates more and more into the military sphere, making systems autonomous and efficient. This contract is a clear confirmation of that.

What's next?

- Orion-2026 exercises 

Micro drones will play a key role in the upcoming international exercises, helping to practice cooperation with allies and new tactics of warfare.

- Expansion of usage  

If everything goes according to plan, such AI drones will begin to be used in other parts of the army, making it even stronger and more mobile.

France confidently looks to the future, using the most advanced technologies to protect its country and its allies.

The Turkish company Aselsan has introduced the latest YILDIRIM-100 directional infrared counteraction system

YILDIRIM-100 in action

The Turkish defense company Aselsan, one of the leading companies in the field of development and production of high—tech solutions for the armed forces, announced the successful completion of tests of its latest Directed Infrared Countermeasures (DIRCM) system called YILDIRIM-100. The tests took place at the test site, where the system showed high efficiency in detecting and neutralizing threats, such as air-to-air missiles with infrared guidance and  ground-to-air.

The YILDIRIM-100 system is an advanced solution in the field of electronic warfare and active aircraft protection. It is designed to counter modern thermal homing missiles, which pose a serious threat to military aviation and civilian aircraft in conflict or terrorist threats. The principle of operation of DIRCM is to use powerful laser radiation to dazzle or disorient the missile's homing head, which allows it to be deflected from the target.

Successful tests demonstrate that Aselsan continues to strengthen its position as one of the key players in the international defense technology market. The company, founded in 1975 and one of the main contractors of the Turkish Armed Forces, has repeatedly been recognized for its innovative developments, including sonar, communications equipment and electro-optical systems.

Special attention should be paid to the fact that the development of YILDIRIM-100 was carried out with a significant share of the company's own investments. This confirms Aselsan's strategy to develop independence in the field of high technology and reduce dependence on imported components. In recent years, the Turkish defense sector has been actively developing, especially after restrictions on the supply of technology from other countries such as Canada, which prompted active import substitution.

In addition, Aselsan is also known for its work in the field of unmanned aerial vehicles. For example, the company develops specialized drones and UAV equipment, including optoelectronic systems, which are used by manufacturers such as Baykar, the creator of the famous Bayraktar TB2 drone. However, YILDIRIM-100 is another proof of its wide technical potential.

The test results of the YILDIRIM-100 system can be an important step in the modernization of the air forces not only of Turkey, but also of other countries that are considering the possibility of purchasing this system. It is also expected that the YILDIRIM-100 will be integrated into new promising projects, such as advanced fifth-generation multi-role fighters, which will ensure a high level of survival of aerial platforms in the face of countering modern air defense systems.

OpenAI has received a $200 million contract from the US Department of Defense to develop AI tools

Sam Altman

The US Department of Defense has signed a $200 million annual contract with OpenAI, under which the company will develop prototypes of artificial intelligence (AI) tools to solve critical national security tasks. The work will primarily be carried out in the Washington, D.C. area, with an estimated completion date of July 2026.

This contract became the first OpenAI project within the framework of the new OpenAI for Government initiative, which unites all the company's government projects, including the ChatGPT version for civil servants — ChatGPT Gov, as well as cooperation with NASA, the National Institutes of Health, the US Air Force Research Laboratory and the Ministry of Finance. The aim of the initiative is to transform the administrative operations of departments using advanced AI technologies.

In December 2024, OpenAI announced a partnership with defense startup Anduril Industries aimed at creating AI systems to protect against drones. This cooperation complements the contract with the Department of Defense and demonstrates the expansion of OpenAI's role in the US defense sector.

Sam Altman, CEO of OpenAI, emphasized that the company strives to create technologies that support democratic values and ensure the safety of citizens, while helping the armed forces and national security.

Turkish Hürkuş aircraft reached an important milestone at the Anatolian Phoenix-2025 exercises

During the Anatolian Phoenix-2025 international exercises held in Konya, the Turkish light combat training aircraft Hürkuş demonstrated significant progress by successfully deploying a 1-ton bomb. This achievement was a crucial step in expanding the aircraft's operational capabilities and highlighted Turkey's growing mastery of defense technology.

Hürkuş, developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries (TAI), is a multifunctional turboprop aircraft with two pilots designed for training and light combat missions. The Hürkuş-C variant, which participated in the exercises, is capable of carrying up to 1.5 tons of external load, including guided missiles and laser-guided munitions. The successful use of a 1-ton guided bomb, probably an HGK-84 with GPS/INS guidance, demonstrates the aircraft's ability to effectively deliver pinpoint strikes in various weather conditions.

This event strengthens Turkey's position as a manufacturer of modern and economical combat aircraft capable of performing tasks of close air support and combating asymmetric threats. In addition, Hürkuş may become an attractive option for foreign buyers, given the already existing interest from countries such as Niger and Chad.

The Anatolian Phoenix-2025 exercises, which were attended by military personnel from the United States, Germany, Qatar and other countries, allowed us to demonstrate not only the combat capabilities of Turkey, but also a high level of coordination and interaction between the allied forces. This success reflects Turkey's strategic goal of developing its own defense industry and achieving technological independence.

Thus, the successful use of the 1-ton bomb in the exercises became an important stage in the development of Turkish aviation and confirms the potential of Hürküş as an effective and universal combat weapon.

Ukraine and Thales Launch Joint Venture to Develop Advanced Defense Technologies

 

The Ukrainian defense industry and the French company Thales International SAS, one of the world leaders in the development of information systems for the aerospace and military industries, have signed an agreement to establish a joint venture. This partnership opens up new horizons for the development of the Ukrainian defense industry and strengthening its technological potential.

The signing of the agreement between Ukraine and Thales is an important step towards modernizing the Ukrainian defense infrastructure. The joint venture will develop advanced technologies aimed at solving key tasks in the areas of air defense, radar systems, electronic warfare, tactical communications and optoelectronic systems.

Thales, known for its innovative security and defense solutions, will provide Ukrainian specialists with access to advanced technologies and expertise. In turn, the Ukrainian side will offer a wealth of experience in the practical application of modern systems in real conditions, which will make it possible to adapt developments to the specific requirements of modern combat space.

According to the terms of the agreement, the joint venture will focus on several key areas.:

1. Air Defense: Development and production of modern air defense systems capable of effectively countering various aerial threats, including drones, cruise missiles, and airplanes.

2. Radar systems: Creation of high-precision radar complexes for monitoring airspace and ensuring timely detection of targets.

3. Electronic warfare (EW): The development of means of defense and attack in the electronic sphere, allowing to neutralize the electronic systems of the enemy and protect their own assets.

4. Tactical communications: Creation of reliable and secure communication networks to coordinate the actions of troops on the battlefield.

5. Optoelectronic systems: Design and manufacture of surveillance and targeting devices using advanced optical and electronic technologies.

This cooperation is of strategic importance not only for Ukraine, but also for the whole of Europe. Strengthening the Ukrainian defense potential through the introduction of advanced technologies helps to stabilize the situation in the region and strengthen collective security.

The partnership with Thales also demonstrates the international community's trust in the Ukrainian defense industry and its ability to develop innovative projects. This can be an impetus for attracting additional investments and technologies from other countries.

The creation of a joint venture will become a platform for long-term cooperation between Ukraine and Thales. It is expected that this partnership will lead to the emergence of new technological solutions that will not only meet the needs of the Ukrainian army, but also be offered on the international market.

Thus, the signing of the agreement between Ukraine and Thales opens a new page in the development of the country's defense industry. This cooperation symbolizes the desire to modernize, innovate, and strengthen security at both the national and international levels.