F-35A and PDW C100 drone conducted joint airstrikes: a new era of air support

In July 2025, as part of a large-scale demonstration of the next-generation air warfare concept, a landmark event took place: the fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II stealth fighter carried out targeted airstrikes for the first time in close cooperation with the PDW C100 unmanned aerial vehicle developed by Performance Drone Works (PDW). This operation was an important step in the implementation of the strategy of joint fire support between manned and unmanned aircraft.

How it works: pilot and drone in a single network

During the tests, the PDW C100 drone, equipped with a laser designator, served as a scout and spotter. He approached the target at low altitude, providing stealthy detection and illumination of objects, while the F-35A fighter remained at a safe distance. After receiving data on the target, the F-35A aimed and dropped four GBU-12 Paveway II inert bombs, which hit the specified coordinates with high accuracy.

This format of interaction — when a drone "lights up" a target and a fighter strikes — demonstrates the transition to a new model of air operations, where artificial intelligence and autonomous systems become full-fledged partners of the pilot.

Significance for the future of war

This demonstration was conducted as part of the US Department of Defense's initiative to develop the Team Navy/Team Air Force concept, aimed at integrating UAS into combat formations. The use of drones in the role of "advanced observers" allows:

Reduce risks for manned aviation,

Increase the accuracy of strikes,

Expand the control zone in difficult air defense conditions.

Performance Drone Works, a company specializing in artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, has confirmed that the PDW C100 is capable of operating as part of a tactical network, exchanging real-time data with other platforms, including aircraft, ground stations and command posts.

What's next?

Successful tests pave the way for the mass implementation of such solutions in combat aviation. In the future, drones like the PDW C100 can accompany not only the F-35A, but also future sixth-generation fighters, forming hybrid air groups of manned and unmanned vehicles.

Militarization of Silicon Valley: Google, OpenAI, and Meta integrate into the U.S. military-industrial complex

 Major Silicon Valley technology companies — Google, OpenAI, Meta, as well as new players like Elon Musk's xAI — have actively engaged in cooperation with the US military and defense sector, which represents a large-scale militarization of the technology industry. After a long period when many of them refused to participate in military projects for ethical and reputational reasons, now economic and strategic incentives have changed the situation.

The reasons for this shift include:

- Huge expenses for the development of advanced AI technologies, which require significant funding. Defense contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) provide long-term and large-scale investments, with contracts of up to $200 million per company (Google, OpenAI, Anthropic, xAI), aimed at creating AI systems for national security and the armed forces.

- The strategic importance of AI for future conflicts and national security: The US Department of Defense considers AI as a key factor in ensuring technological superiority and has already created special structures to finance these developments.

- The weakening of companies' internal policies to limit cooperation with the military industry, partly under pressure from the political climate and economic benefits.

- A variety of military applications of AI, including data processing, cybersecurity, autonomous systems and battlefield decision support, which expands the capabilities of technology and gives companies new markets.

- Joint integration initiatives and pilot projects with military departments aimed at accelerating the implementation of AI in real military tasks.

Thus, the "militarization of Silicon Valley" is a shift in the relationship of technology giants with the military sector, where previously principled detachment was replaced by active involvement in defense—related projects. This reflects economic pressures, the strategic agenda, and the changing landscape of the AI and technology industry.

Lockheed Martin received 33.4 million to help Israel with the F-35 — all for the sake of the Block 4

Lockheed Martin has signed a new contract with the US Department of Defense in the amount of $ 33.4 million. The money will be used to support Israel's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program, or rather, to help develop its most advanced version, known as Block 4.

What does it mean? The F-35 is not just an airplane, but a flying computer, and its capabilities are constantly being updated with new versions of hardware and, especially, software. Block 4 is the largest upgrade in the history of the program: it will add new combat functions, improve sensors, enhance combat communication between aircraft and other systems, and expand the arsenal of compatible weapons.

Israel, as one of the key international partners of the F-35 program, wants not just to fly these fighters, but to deeply integrate them into its own defense ecosystem. Therefore, some of the design and software work is carried out directly in Israel, with the participation of local engineers and defense companies. This contract is designed to support the second stage of the development and design of systems on Israeli territory.

Such localization is an important step. It gives Israel more control over technology, allows it to adapt the F-35 to its unique tasks (for example, countering enemy air defenses or operations in the dense airspace of the Middle East) and reduces dependence on supplies from abroad in the event of a crisis.

Lockheed Martin will coordinate these efforts by providing access to source codes, technical documentation, and simulation tools. The work ahead is extensive: from software architecture design to testing new combat algorithms.

As a result, although the contract was awarded to an American company, the whole system wins: the United States strengthens its alliance with Israel, and Israel gains more technological independence, and the F-35 becomes even smarter, more powerful and more deadly.

Pentagon gave Raytheon 32.5 million for the production of new missile systems for the Marines

MRIC (Medium-Range Interception Capability)

On July 24, 2025, the Pentagon officially announced that Raytheon Missiles and Defense had received a $32.5 million contract, and this was a serious bid for the future. The money will be used to support the MRIC (Medium-Range Interception Capability) program, a medium—range interception system that the US Marine Corps is actively developing.

What exactly did you buy? 44 sets of so—called LLI products with a long production time. Simply put, these are the key parts and components that take a long time to make, but without them you cannot assemble a full-fledged system. Now they are being purchased for future use, so that they can quickly launch mass production of MRIC without delay.

In addition, the contract includes an additional amount of LLI — some will be used for spare parts, some for the modernization of already delivered prototypes. That is, not just new systems, but the refinement of old ones so that everything works clearly and according to a single standard.

What does it mean? And the fact that the Marines are seriously preparing for a new generation of air defense. MRIC is a step towards autonomy: the ability to turn around quickly, detect a threat and destroy it at medium range, regardless of army or air force structures. Raytheon, as always, is at the center of events — and, apparently, we will hear more about MRIC in the coming years.

Northrop Grumman is testing space interceptors for the Golden Dome — the race for the contract is underway

The situation around the grandiose American program about the Golden Dome is heating up. Northrop Grumman said it has already begun ground tests of orbital interceptor missiles designed for this system. This is a serious step forward and a clear signal to competitors.: We're in the game, and we're not just drawing on paper anymore.

The Golden Dome program itself is an ambitious plan to create a multi—layered shield against missile threats, including sensors in space, interceptors and powerful control systems. The goal is to intercept ballistic and possibly hypersonic missiles at the earliest stages of flight, right in space. Northrop Grumman, as one of the key contractors, has already received a major contract for this program.

However, so far everything is not so simple. It turns out that the US military itself has not yet fully decided on exactly what characteristics these space interceptors should have. The requirements are still being clarified, which creates some uncertainty. That is why the competition between companies for the right to supply components for the Golden Dome is becoming especially heated. Everyone wants to take their place in this multibillion-dollar project until the rules of the game are finally fixed. It turns out that Northrop Grumman is already testing missiles, but the customer has not yet said exactly which missiles he needs. An interesting situation!

The Pentagon is striving to create a military space Internet, but the project is still far from being realized

The US military aims to transform satellite communications into something similar to the Internet — flexible, fast and providing seamless compatibility between different networks. However, as Pentagon representatives stated at the MilSatcom USA industry conference, this long-planned military space Internet project is still in its early stages and is far from being fully implemented.

In the modern era, there are significantly more commercial satellites than military ones, which creates a unique ecosystem that the US Department of Defense seeks to use for its needs. The main goal is to integrate military and commercial satellite networks into a single, reliable and scalable communication system capable of providing rapid data exchange in any environment.

Despite ambitious plans, the creation of such a system requires solving many technical, organizational and political problems. Pentagon officials noted that significant efforts are needed to standardize protocols, ensure cybersecurity, and ensure compatibility of equipment from various manufacturers.

The successful implementation of the military space Internet will significantly improve the efficiency of communications on the battlefield, ensure the stability of communications in conflict and cyber attacks, and improve coordination between various units and allies.

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.

Canadian high-tech companies continue to cooperate with DARPA despite tensions

 Canadian high-tech companies continue to cooperate with the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), despite trade and political tensions between the two countries. The Washington-based Center for Security Research and Development recently selected four Canadian companies for major programs that give the agency an early look at the hardware they are developing. The founders of these firms say that cooperation with DARPA can open up significant financial and trade opportunities and does not jeopardize their ability to remain Canadians. At the same time, they urge Canadian governments to offer similar support to ensure that the country retains strategic technology. Four Canadian high-tech companies have joined programs designed to provide the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency with an opportunity to familiarize itself with the powerful computing systems of the future.

The founders of the firms say that recent tensions between the United States and Canada have not affected their work with the American agency. But they want Ottawa to step up support for critical technologies. Four Canadian firms struck deals with the agency after November's presidential election, which upended Washington's approach to critical technologies.

SBX-1: Giant floating radar and its impact on the environment

SBX-1

 Imagine a gigantic structure drifting in the middle of the ocean, like a giant oil platform, but with a huge white ball on top, the size of which is comparable to a football stadium. This is not a fantastic landscape, but a very real object – the Sea-Based X-band Radar, or SBX-1 for short. Despite the fact that there is no direct mention of meteorology in its name, its connection with the weather, as well as its impact on the environment, arouses interest and discussion.

At its core, the SBX-1 is a unique and powerful floating radar developed by the US Department of Defense as a key element of their missile defense system. Its main task is not to predict precipitation or study cyclones, but to detect, track, and classify ballistic missiles and their warheads in detail over vast distances. Thanks to its high-frequency X-band radar, this colossus is able to distinguish real threats from false targets and debris, which is crucial for making interception decisions. The platform is a modified semi-submersible oil rig, reaching more than 80 meters in height and having a displacement of about 50,000 tons. The heart of the radar, its antenna, is hidden under a giant dome with a diameter of more than 30 meters. The SBX-1 is capable of navigating the ocean on its own, and it is most often found in the Pacific Ocean, where it fulfills its strategic mission.

And although its main purpose is far from meteorology, there is a point of view that such a colossal structure, actively moving across the ocean, cannot but have a certain, albeit local, impact on the environment. Large objects that generate heat and change the flow of water or air around them can affect the formation of microclimates or currents. It is this fact that such a large-scale intervention in the marine environment must have some consequences that sometimes leads to assumptions about its indirect impact on meteorological processes. Any powerful and accurate radar, especially one operating in the high-frequency X-band, is extremely sensitive to the state of the atmosphere. Humidity, temperature, pressure, precipitation, and even the smallest air turbulence can distort, disperse, or absorb its radio waves, reducing accuracy and range. That is why the SBX-1 is equipped with a sophisticated environmental monitoring system that constantly measures air temperature and humidity, atmospheric pressure, wind speed and direction, as well as precipitation types and intensity. This data is vital for radar calibration, beam correction, and interference filtering, ensuring maximum accuracy when detecting missiles. Thus, the platform does not generate weather, but it is extremely dependent on it, and, in turn, its gigantic presence in the ocean may be the subject of study in terms of its complex impact on local natural processes.

The US Department of Defense's intelligence service notes the growing military use of quantum technologies by rivals

   

The U.S. Intelligence Agency's (DIA) Threat Assessment for 2025 warns that quantum technologies will soon be used for military purposes, with competing countries investing in sensor systems, secure communications, and computing to challenge U.S. strategic advantages.

Quantum sensors and communications are developing faster than computing technology: China and Russia are expanding urban-scale quantum networks and developing detection tools, which can bypass traditional stealth and GPS systems.

These advances are part of a broader convergence with AI, electronic warfare, and microelectronics, which increases the risk of technological surprise and prompts the Defense Intelligence Agency to recommend the integration of quantum readiness into U.S. defense planning.

The US Department of Defense is upgrading the M270 MLRS to enhance NATO's artillery capabilities

The US Department of Defense has taken a significant step towards strengthening NATO's artillery capabilities by signing a new contract with Lockheed Martin to upgrade existing M270 multiple launch rocket systems (MLRS) to an improved version of the M270A2. This initiative is aimed at improving the accuracy, range and operational effectiveness of the artillery units of the allies in the North Atlantic Alliance.

The updated M270A2 system is equipped with modern digital fire control tools, improved navigation and communication systems, which significantly improves the reaction speed and accuracy of strikes. In addition, the upgrade includes the integration of new types of ammunition with increased range and improved handling, which expands the tactical capabilities of artillery.

The contract covers not only the American army, but also key NATO allies — Finland, Italy and the United Kingdom. Such cooperation demonstrates a joint commitment to strengthening Europe's defense capabilities in the face of growing geopolitical challenges. Expanding long-range precision strike capabilities will allow the alliance to more effectively deter potential threats and ensure the safety of its members.

Upgrading the M270 to A2 also contributes to the standardization of weapons among NATO countries, facilitating the sharing and logistical support of systems. This is especially important in the context of multinational operations and joint exercises, where the effectiveness of cooperation directly affects the combat capability of the combined forces.

Thus, the contract with Lockheed Martin for the modernization of the M270 MLRS is a strategically important project that strengthens NATO's artillery potential and increases the level of collective security in Europe.

General Atomics confirms the development of an aerial laser for MQ-9 drones

General Atomics has officially confirmed the existence of a new program aimed at creating airborne laser weapons for MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicles. The program was presented at the Sea Air Space 2025 exhibition and is part of a joint initiative of the US Department of Defense. Its goal is to equip the MQ-9 fleet, which is in service with the US Air Force and Marine Corps, with advanced laser weapons.

The MQ-9 Reaper has long established itself as a reliable drone capable of performing surveillance, reconnaissance, and strike missions. However, the integration of on-board laser weapons can significantly expand its capabilities. Laser weapons will allow drones to effectively destroy air and ground targets with high accuracy and minimal resource expenditure.

The program is aimed at developing compact and powerful laser systems that can be installed on the MQ-9 without significant design changes. This will make it possible to use drones to counter enemy drones, destroy lightly armored vehicles, and even protect against missile attacks.

Onboard lasers have a number of advantages over traditional weapons. They provide almost instant destruction of targets, do not require ammunition and can be used repeatedly. In addition, laser weapons reduce the risk of collateral damage, as they allow precise focus on specific objects.

For the US Air Force and Marine Corps, the introduction of this technology will be an important step in modernizing their fleet. Drones with laser weapons will be able to perform tasks that were previously unavailable for standard weapons systems.

The development of airborne laser weapons for the MQ-9 reflects the United States' desire to maintain technological leadership in the field of weapons. In the face of the growing threat from drones and other high-tech enemy assets, lasers are becoming a key element of modern defense.

The successful implementation of the program could set a precedent for equipping other types of aircraft, including fighter jets and transport aircraft, with laser weapons. It also demonstrates the Pentagon's willingness to invest in innovative solutions to counter future threats.

Despite the promising prospects, the program faces a number of technical and financial challenges. The main issues remain the energy efficiency of lasers, their weight, and their ability to operate in various weather conditions. However, the success of General Atomics in developing similar systems such as HELIOS (High-Energy Laser with Integrated Optical dazzler and Surveillance) is encouraging.

The completion of the program and the start of deliveries of laser weapons for the MQ-9 is expected in the coming years. This event may become a turning point in the development of unmanned technologies and change the rules of modern warfare.

The United States creates the first fuel storage in space: a revolution in the satellite industry

 

The space race is entering a new phase. The United States is launching an ambitious project to create the world's first orbital refueling station, which could fundamentally change the rules of the game for the satellite industry and national security. Astroscale US, a company specializing in servicing orbital objects, has announced its readiness to carry out a historic mission in the summer of 2026.

This project is funded by the US Department of Defense, which underlines its strategic importance. As part of the operation, the 660-pound (about 300 kg) spacecraft will not only refuel satellites directly in orbit, but also test refueling technology using intermediate storage. This will solve one of the key problems of modern space exploration — the limited life of satellites due to lack of fuel.

"If you run out of fuel, your life will end," is how Astroscale representatives figuratively describe the importance of the new project. The technology involves the use of hydrazine, one of the most common fuels in the space industry. The first mission will be a pilot phase, where the refueling facilities are still kept secret by the US Space Force.

Why is this important?

1. Satellite Expansion: Satellites will be able to work longer without needing to be replaced.

2. Cost reduction: Launching new vehicles is more expensive than maintaining them in orbit.

3. Safety in orbit: The project will help to prevent collisions of failed satellites with existing vehicles.

4. Strategic Advantage: The United States will receive an advanced solution to protect its assets in space.

Astroscale has already established itself as a leader in space services. Its technologies can become the basis for future commercial projects, such as the creation of satellite gas station networks for private companies and government organizations.

The 2026 mission is just the beginning. The success of this project can open up new horizons for space exploration, making it more accessible and safer for humanity.

Northrop Grumman Signs Contract with the US Department of Defense to Develop Autonomous Underwater Systems

 

Manta Ray Drone

In the latest contract announcement, the U.S. Department of Defense announced that Northrop Grumman Systems Corp. Headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland, has awarded a cost- and fixed-fee contract to promote the "Innovative Naval Prototype Autonomous Underwater Operation of a Full Range of Underwater Warfare" initiative.

The program, which is led by the Office of Naval Research (ONR), aims to conduct advanced research and development focused on autonomous underwater capabilities.According to the announcement, the contract specifically covers technology research., designed to enhance the Navy's ability to perceive and respond to underwater threats autonomously. This research includes the development of complex autonomous systems capable of conducting underwater exploration, detection and operation.

F-35B and Meteor missile: A milestone in the integration of British weapons onto an advanced American platform

The F-35B fighter successfully conducted the first test flights with the Meteor air-to-air missile

In the world of modern aviation, the achievement associated with the successful test flights of the F-35B fighter jet with the MBDA Meteor air-to-air missile represents an important step in the development of international cooperation and technological progress. These tests, carried out from the Patuxent River Naval Air Station, opened a new chapter in the integration of British weapons systems onto one of the most advanced aviation platforms in the world.

The event, held at the Patuxent River base, was the culmination of a long-term project to adapt the British Meteor missile for use on the fifth-generation F-35B fighter jet. During the tests, an inert version of the rocket was launched, which was used to collect environmental data and verify the compatibility of the system with the aircraft's on-board computers. This stage of testing is part of a broader program aimed at ensuring the full combat readiness of the complex.

Meteor is a long—range supersonic missile developed by the European consortium MBDA. It is equipped with an active radar homing head and a ramjet jet engine, which allows it to maintain high speed and maneuverability even over long distances. The integration of this missile on the F-35B significantly expands the fighter's air combat capabilities, especially against modern threats.

The successful completion of the tests demonstrates the effectiveness of cooperation between the United Kingdom and the United States in the field of defense technology. The F-35 program is one of the largest international projects in the history of the aviation industry, and Britain's participation in it underscores the strategic partnership between the two countries.

For the UK, the integration of the Meteor missile into the F-35B means strengthening its own air defense and attack capabilities. It also strengthens the country's position as one of the key developers of advanced weapons systems in Europe. For the United States, this event shows the flexibility and versatility of the F-35 platform, capable of working with various types of weapons from various partner countries.

This success was made possible by close cooperation between several parties.:

- The British Ministry of Defense: Provided financial and organizational support to the program.

- MBDA: Was responsible for the development and adaptation of the Meteor rocket for installation on the F-35B.

- Lockheed Martin: Performed work on the integration of the missile with the aircraft's onboard systems.

- The US Department of Defense: Provided access to the necessary resources and infrastructure for testing.

Such a partnership serves as an example of how international efforts can lead to the creation of truly global solutions in the defense sector.

Taking into account Meteor's unique characteristics, such as a range of up to 100+ km, high maneuverability and the ability to intercept targets at extreme speeds, the F-35B gets a significant advantage in aerial battles. This makes it an even more dangerous opponent for potential threats, especially in a complex electronic warfare environment.

Moreover, the use of a British missile on an American fighter jet opens up new horizons for other countries operating the F-35. Now they can consider installing similar systems to adapt the aircraft to their specific requirements.

The integration of the Meteor missile into the F-35B has become an important milestone in the development of modern aviation technology and international defense cooperation. This project demonstrates how technologies can be combined to create powerful and flexible systems capable of ensuring the security of allies in a changing world. The success of the tests not only strengthens the position of the UK and the USA as leaders in the defense industry, but also underlines the importance of collective efforts to address global challenges.