KNDS introduced the Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 tank with a remote turret and increased cross-country capability

The KNDS consortium (Krauss-Maffei Wegmann and Nexter Defense Systems) has unveiled a new prototype of the Leopard 2A—RC 3.0 main battle tank. This modification, designated PT02, demonstrates a significant technological step forward, primarily due to a remotely controlled turret and improved firepower.

The main feature of the Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 is a fully automated turret controlled by the crew from inside the hull. This increases the survival rate of the crew, as there is no need for a traditional conning tower with hatches and armored weak spots. Fire control and surveillance are carried out using modern optoelectronic systems, which makes it possible to conduct combat operations with high accuracy in any conditions.

The tank is equipped with a 120 mm smoothbore cannon integrated into a modular turret, which provides increased rate of fire and flexibility in the selection of ammunition. The developers note the "expanded" firepower compared to previous versions, including the possibility of using new types of ammunition, including those with programmable fuses.

Overall characteristics of the PT02 prototype:

- Body Length: 7.95 m (26 ft)  

- Width: 3.73 m (12.24ft)  

- Height: 2.4 m (7.87 ft)  

- Total length with cannon: 11.17 m (36.65 ft)  

- Height with periscope: 2.84 m (9.32 ft)  

- Ground clearance: 0.5m (1.64 ft)  

Thanks to the increased ground clearance, the tank confidently overcomes difficult terrain, including trenches, rubble and other obstacles on the battlefield, maintaining high mobility even in conditions of intense combat.

Leopard 2A-RC 3.0 is positioned as a promising platform for future European tank forces, combining advanced technology, protection, firepower and increased survivability of the crew.

AI and nuclear buttons: Why artificial intelligence will inevitably enter command centers — and what it means for humanity

Artificial intelligence is no longer just helping to analyze data — it's heading straight for nuclear missiles. And the experts gathered at a conference in Chicago in July 2025, including Nobel laureates and leading nuclear safety experts, say the same thing: AI control over nuclear systems is not if, but when.  

As Bob Latiff, a retired major general in the US Air Force and a member of the Science and Security Council of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, said at the meeting.:  

 "It's like electricity —  it gets into everything."

And he's right. Already today, the nuclear arsenals of the leading powers are using early forms of AI and automation. The machines analyze satellite images, track the movements of enemy submarines, process radio signals and help commanders make decisions. This is necessary because the amount of data has become so huge that a person simply does not have time to process everything. Plus— AI, in theory, does not panic, does not get tired and does not make decisions under the pressure of emotions.

But that's where the most dangerous part begins.

What if the algorithm makes a mistake? What if he mistakes an ordinary weather balloon for a rocket or a supersonic plane for the beginning of a massive strike? In conditions of nuclear deterrence, where a decision must be made in minutes, one AI mistake can lead to a nuclear response — and without the possibility of cancellation. This is not fiction. This is a real risk, especially if the systems are implemented in pursuit of speed rather than reliability.

Right now, the AI is not pressing the start button yet. The person remains in the decision-making chain. But more and more functions, from threat detection to goal prioritization, are being transferred to machines. And experts are sounding the alarm: if we don't stop in time, we may find ourselves in a situation where a person will simply sign what the AI has already decided.

Therefore, the main slogan of the conference is "man must remain at the center of the solution." It is necessary to maintain human control at all key stages. And this means abandoning the practice of "warning launch", when missiles launch even before the impact is confirmed. It is necessary to give more time for analysis in order to avoid a disaster due to a false alarm.

In addition, it is required:

- Transparency in how algorithms work.

- Training for operators so that they understand when the AI is lying.

- International rules — agreements on how and where AI can be used in nuclear systems.

Because the problem is not only in technology. It's also about speed. Modern conflicts are moving faster: drones, cyber attacks, autonomous systems. AI accelerates everything from detection to response. And this, combined with misinformation and panic, can lead to an unintended escalation — when one mistake leads to another, and as a result, the world finds itself on the verge of nuclear winter.

So yes, AI can make weapon control more accurate and safer. But without strict supervision, ethics, and international cooperation, it is equally likely to be the trigger.  

As Latiff said, he will enter into everything. The task of humanity is to prevent it from entering a place where it cannot be mistaken.

"Penicillin" in seconds: how the Russian complex calculates enemy guns

The Russian state corporation Rostec spoke about the powerful Penicillin intelligence complex, which, according to them, has become a real "secret weapon" in the area of a special military operation. His main task is to find and accurately determine the coordinates of enemy artillery firing positions as quickly as possible so that our batteries can destroy them immediately. And he does it literally in a matter of seconds.

What is so good about Penicillin? His strength lies in a unique combination of data. The complex simultaneously analyzes seismic waves from shots, thermal flashes during a shot, and visual data from cameras. All this information is automatically compiled, processed by the built-in system and instantly provides the exact coordinates of enemy guns, rocket launchers, as well as anti-aircraft and tactical missile launchers. The range is up to 25 kilometers.

One of the main features is full automation. A person is not required to analyze a picture or sounds — the system does everything by itself, which eliminates errors and negligence. But the most important advantage over Western analogues is that Penicillin does not emit radio waves. He works absolutely passively, only "listening" and "watching". This means that enemy electronic reconnaissance and suppression systems simply cannot detect or disable it. The complex remains invisible until it shows you where the enemy is sitting.

The complex itself is mounted on a KAMAZ chassis (although it may be on another one), and its "eyes and ears" — a reconnaissance module with a mast — rise up for a better view. Inside there is a whole network of sensors: four sound locators, twelve thermal imagers (conventional and high—speed) and optoelectronic equipment. It works stably in extreme conditions — from -40 to +50 degrees.

The first samples were received by the troops back in 2020, and by December 2022 they were already actively used in the SVO zone. With the Ukrainian Armed Forces receiving more and more Western artillery, the presence of such secretive and fast complexes among Russian troops provides a serious tactical advantage, allowing them to keep the enemy at constant gunpoint.

Penicillin

China's "Dark Factories": how AI and robots are building a future without people and light

 The industrial revolution is raging in China, which is not visible to the naked eye — because there are simply no lights in these factories. The country is accelerating the transition to "dark factories" — fully automated production facilities where only robots controlled by artificial intelligence work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, without breaks or shifts. People, lighting, heating — all this has become unnecessary ballast.

This trend is a response to serious challenges: demographic decline, rising salaries and the outflow of young people from factories. China can no longer rely on cheap labor, and its choice is to become a leader in high—tech manufacturing. "Dark factories" consume less energy, make fewer mistakes, and don't require lunch breaks.

The giants of the industry are already in action. Midea in Shenzhen has launched an air conditioner factory where not a single person in the workshop is visible. The result: +35% of productivity and -70% of rejection. Foxconn, the iPhone assembler, plans to fully automate the assembly of some components by 2027. The Geely plant in Chengdu uses robots for welding, painting and AI cameras for quality control. And Huawei commissioned two monsters in 2025: a fully robotic smartphone factory in Dongguan, where lines are rebuilt in minutes, and a giant automated electric car factory in Chongqing, where assembling a single car can take only 15 minutes, and the entire process is modeled in a digital twin.

The Chinese government sees this as a strategy of technological sovereignty. In the face of sanctions and trade wars, fully automated factories are sustainability. They can work even in isolation, without external shocks. The Ministry of Industry has set an ambitious goal: by 2035, most strategic industries (microelectronics, aircraft manufacturing, medicine) should switch to "smart" production.

However, there is also concern behind this progress: experts estimate that by 2030, up to 30% of manufacturing workers in China may be displaced by robots. The authorities are trying to soften the blow by investing in retraining personnel — the future belongs to AI, cybersecurity and robot maintenance engineers, not assembly line workers. China is building a new model of industrialization: without people, without electricity, but with unprecedented speed, quality and independence.

The US Air Force tested AI in combat: the machine chose targets for the pilots

The US Air Force has taken another step towards the future — for the first time they have tested a system in which artificial intelligence selects combat targets in conditions as close as possible to real combat.

This happened during a four-day exercise called Experiment 3 last month. According to the BBC, it was a real breakthrough — the debut of a "new methodology" that had never been used before. Simply put, they rewrote the rules of the game.

Previously, pilots and analysts spent hours poring over data to decide where to fly, who to attack, and in what order. AI now analyzes information flows in seconds, from satellites to radars and intelligence, and suggests priority targets on its own. And not just "there's a tank there," but: "this object poses the greatest threat, it has weak protection, and destroying it will give a strategic advantage."

In the exercises, the AI not only found targets, but also helped to build an attack plan: calculated routes, assessed risks, and suggested optimal weapons. All this is in real time, when the situation is changing every minute.

Because in a real battle, especially against a strong opponent like China or Russia, the military will not have time for long planning. You need to make decisions faster than the enemy. AI allows you to "win at pace."

So far, the final decision remains with the human — the pilot or commander can agree with the AI or reject its recommendation. But one thing is clear: the pilots of the future will work in tandem with artificial intelligence, as with a smart partner who sees everything and thinks faster.

This is no longer fiction. This is Experiment 3, and it has shown that the war of the 21st century will be smart, fast... and controlled by algorithms.

China has revealed how its VU-T10 combat robot is causing hell on the battlefield

 

VU-T10

China continues to actively increase the pace in the development of robotic systems for the army — and the latest striking example is the new tracked unmanned ground vehicle (UAV) VU-T10, which recently passed field tests. Footage from these tests was published by China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), one of the leading Chinese weapons developers.

Imagine: an 11-ton combat robot that maneuvers through difficult terrain without human intervention, accurately identifies targets and strikes them. All this is within the framework of the Chinese strategy for the introduction of robotics in modern and future scenarios of warfare. The VU-T10 is not just a toy, but a full—fledged participant in the battle.

The device is equipped with a remote—controlled modular combat turret armed with a serious 30-mm cannon, which is excellent for both fighting with manpower and for hitting lightly armored targets. A twin 7.62 mm machine gun is mounted next to it, an additional tool for suppressing enemy infantry.  

But that's not all. For self-defense, the VU-T10 has electric smoke grenade launchers, which allow the device to hide from observation or distract the enemy at a critical moment.

The VU-T10 is not just an experimental prototype. This is an important step forward in China's plans to modernize its army. Such vehicles can be used as scouts, firing points accompanying infantry, or even as autonomous attack platforms.  

In addition, all this suggests that Chinese engineers are actively working to make robots not just auxiliary tools, but full—fledged participants in combat operations - without risking the lives of soldiers.

The VU-T10 is a prime example of how rapidly military robotics is developing in China. And if such devices begin to en masse to the troops, it can seriously change the face of modern combat.

China is testing a new SH16 self-propelled howitzer with a robotic turret and record-breaking range shooting

SH16

The Chinese army has begun field trials of the new 155-mm SH16 self-propelled howitzer, which has already attracted the attention of military analysts as one of the most advanced artillery systems of the new generation. Information about the howitzer has been kept secret for a long time, but recent photos and publications on Chinese social networks have confirmed its active testing.

The SH16 is built on a tracked chassis with a total weight of about 32 tons. The main advantage of the system is a fully robotic modular turret weighing less than 14 tons, which significantly reduces the crew to two people: a driver and a gunner/commander. This became possible thanks to the introduction of automated loading and modern fire control systems, which increases the rate of fire and effectiveness of combat use.

The howitzer is equipped with a 52-caliber (155 mm × 52) long barrel, which significantly increases the initial velocity of the projectile and, consequently, the firing range. According to the data, the maximum range reaches 53-56 kilometers with the use of ERFB-BB active-rocket projectiles and up to 100 kilometers with the use of specialized precision—guided munitions - this makes the SH16 comparable in range with the world's best analogues.

The high level of automation allowed not only to reduce the number of crew, but also to increase the speed of deployment and position change. To stabilize the howitzer when firing in a combat position, special recoil-compensating frames are installed. The tower is equipped with its own radar station for measuring ballistic data and an optical system for direct fire.

Additionally, the SH16 can be equipped with a remote-controlled machine gun module for protection against infantry and smoke camouflage. In the spring of 2025, this system is expected to be demonstrated at the military parade of the Chinese People's Liberation Army on September 3, which will confirm its status as the main artillery innovation of the PLA.

The SH16 is designed to replace outdated models and enhance the combat capability of the Chinese ground forces. The increased firing range and high level of digital integration will make it possible to effectively suppress well-concealed targets, carry out pinpoint strikes from a long distance and quickly maneuver on the battlefield.

Special attention is paid to combining the system with modern means of communication and fire control within an integrated network, which makes the SH16 part of the digital army of the future.

The adoption of the SH16 by 2027 will significantly enhance the artillery capabilities of the People's Liberation Army of China. The combination of high firepower, precision, automation and mobility will make this howitzer a serious challenge in the global artillery market.

Lockheed Martin is modernizing Javelin production, increasing output by 50%

The American defense corporation Lockheed Martin is actively modernizing the Javelin anti-tank missile production line. The company currently produces about 2,400 rockets per year, but by the end of 2026 it plans to increase the volume to 3,960 units, which is almost 50% more.  

For this purpose, new technologies, equipment and testing systems are being introduced, which will speed up and improve the production process. For example, in May 2025, a new component quality control station was launched at a plant in Troy, Alabama. It replaces the old systems and allows you to more accurately check how the individual parts of the rocket interact. Modern software solutions such as SystemLink are also used to help analyze data and improve product quality.

The company is installing 24 new test stations at three key locations:

- 14 in Troy,  

- 8 — in Ocala (Florida),  

- 2 — to Huntsville (Alabama).  

This will reduce equipment downtime, speed up production, and increase throughput. It is also important that the new stations are protected at a level that meets modern cybersecurity requirements.

Modernization affects not only the plant itself, but also the supply chain. The company works closely with suppliers to improve the quality of components and speed up production. This is especially important given the growing demand for Javelin both in the United States and abroad, especially in Europe and Ukraine.

Lockheed Martin has signed a major contract with the US Army, which could amount to up to $7.2 billion in the period 2023-2026. The terms of the contract include the supply of an unlimited number of missiles, which underlines the strategic importance of Javelin for future military operations.

Javelin production modernization is not just about increasing volumes, but updating the entire system: from automation and testing to quality control and cybersecurity. This will reduce costs, increase missile reliability, and accelerate deliveries to both the U.S. Army and FMS partners, including Ukraine.  

This approach confirms that the Javelin remains one of the key elements of modern anti-tank weapons in the world.

Sikorsky relies on AI and automation in manned helicopters: future technologies are already in development

The heads of the American aircraft manufacturer Sikorsky, part of Lockheed Martin, said that artificial intelligence (AI) and automation systems will play an increasingly important role not only in unmanned aerial vehicles, but also in traditional manned helicopters. This announcement marks an important shift in the approach to aircraft engineering, where humans remain in the control center but receive powerful support from autonomous systems.

One of Sikorsky's key achievements in this area is the Matrix technology, which is an autonomous flight control system capable of integrating into existing helicopter models, including the well-known UH-60 Black Hawk. Matrix combines advanced algorithms, sensors and computing modules, allowing the helicopter to perform tasks such as:

- automatic takeoff and landing;  

- navigation in difficult conditions;  

- avoiding obstacles;  

- Real-time route planning;  

- reducing the burden on the crew by partially or fully automating the flight.

Matrix technology is considered as an important step towards the realization of the concept of "flying taxi", as well as as the basis for the creation of hybrid helicopters combining the capabilities of manned and unmanned aircraft. It can be used for both civilian and military purposes, from delivering cargo to hard—to-reach areas to rescue operations and strike missions.

The future of helicopter aviation

According to Sikorsky experts, the introduction of AI into helicopter control is not a replacement for a pilot, but rather an enhancement of his capabilities. In conditions of high threat or difficult weather conditions, automation can improve the safety and accuracy of the mission. Such technologies are especially relevant for the modern battlefield, where the reaction speed and awareness of the crew can decide the outcome of an operation.

In addition, autonomous functions can be used within the framework of the "Loyal Wingman" concept, in which one pilot controls not only his helicopter, but also a number of accompanying UAVs performing reconnaissance or strike missions.

With the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning, such systems will become even more adaptive and intelligent, capable of making decisions in real time and minimizing the risk of human error.

The Helsing Lura artificial intelligence anti-submarine system

 

The German company Helsing, known for its unmanned aerial vehicles, has now switched to underwater technology. Recently, she introduced a promising underwater monitoring system designed to search for various objects. It includes a new uninhabited underwater vehicle SG-1 Fathom, developed by a partner company, as well as the original Lura control and data processing system.

The development of a new anti-submarine defense system was carried out behind closed doors. The company announced the existence of such a project only on May 13, 2025. By this time, she, along with her subcontractors, had managed to carry out the necessary design work and bring the new equipment to the assembly stage and the first tests.

It is reported that when creating a new system for the naval forces, the experience gained in creating ground and aerial unmanned systems, as well as a number of new solutions, was used. First of all, we applied developments in the field of artificial intelligence.

The system includes two main components — the SG-1 Fathom autonomous uninhabited underwater vehicle and the Lura control system. Helsing independently developed a software and hardware management system, while the necessary ANPA with hardware was ordered from the Australian company Blue Ocean Marine Tech Systems.

The Lura complex is based on modern computing technology and uses artificial intelligence. It must process data from sonar stations, identify underwater or surface objects, and provide ready-made information. The system will also have to carry out targeting for various anti-submarine weapons.

The developers claim that an anti-submarine system of this kind is characterized by increased flexibility of use, high performance and high speed. In addition, its further improvement and improvement of the main characteristics are simplified in a certain way.

Judging by the disclosed materials, the Lura/SG-1 project has already reached the stage of manufacturing and testing experimental equipment. In particular, it shows the discharge of ANPA "Fatom" into the water with subsequent operation and the output of results.

Probably, in the near future, the development company will begin to promote its anti-submarine system on the international market. It is still unknown what kind of advertising the new products will be, and whether it will be possible to convince potential customers.

One of the main tools of the Lura complex is the SG-1 Fathom ANPA ("Fathom" or "Sea fathom"). It is a multifunctional underwater platform capable of carrying payloads for various purposes. When used as part of an anti-submarine complex, such a device receives the appropriate software and hardware.

SG-1 has a tubular body 1.95 m long and 280 mm in diameter. In the central part, a vertical stabilizer is located on top, and in the stern there is a swept—back "wing" that provides movement underwater. The weight of the device is 60 kg.

Fatom has an electric power system, but it does not have its own engine. The movements are carried out according to the principle of the so-called underwater glider. The device has a device for controlling buoyancy, due to which it can maneuver in depth. At the same time, the "wing" allows it to move horizontally and perform smooth maneuvers along the course.

This method of movement does not allow for high travel speeds — they do not exceed 1-3 knots. At the same time, the device is highly economical. Even with limited battery capacity, it is able to stay at sea and work for up to 3 months.

Sensors of a passive sonar station are located in the head of the hull, which collect information about the underwater situation. The SG-1 is also equipped with an on-board computer with elements of the Lura system, which is responsible for primary data processing. Communication facilities are provided for transmitting data to the control station.    In turn, Lura is a software and hardware complex designed for use at ANPA and control stations. It is built on the basis of computers with the required performance and the required dimensions. The software part is made using artificial intelligence.

The Lura system uses the Large Acoustic Model. In fact, it is a database that includes acoustic signatures of various surface and submarine ships, vessels and submarines. It is claimed that this base has been assembled for several decades and covers the fleets of various states.

During operation, Lura must analyze incoming signals and recognize their source. It is claimed that modern equipment and artificial intelligence make it possible to increase the sensitivity of the complex 8-10 times in comparison with other sonar systems. In addition, target recognition is 40 times faster than human recognition.

Some of the components of the Lura system are placed on board the underwater vehicle. Others are intended for land-based or ship-based control stations. The station also has operator workstations and devices for communication with other anti-submarine defense components. It is noted that AI makes it possible to increase the degree of automation of the station and the entire system as a whole. One person will be able to manage a "fleet" of hundreds of ANPA.

The developer company has revealed the general principles of the new monitoring system. So, a control station should be located on land or on a carrier ship. In addition, the required number of SG-1 ANPS is deployed on other ships or other platforms. With their help, the devices are delivered to a given area and launched.

Fathoms must independently conduct patrols along specified routes within the required area. During the patrol, they will have to use standard gas and receive various acoustic signals.

ANPA's on-board computer analyzes incoming signals using elements of the Lura system, as well as determines their nature and source. If the AI recognizes the received vibrations as noise from a ship or submarine, then the device must surface and communicate with the control station.

After that, the Lura equipment at the control station is connected to the noise analysis. After confirming the existence of a real goal, the operator determines further actions. It can redirect additional SG-1s to the target area to clarify the situation or immediately transmit target data to anti-submarine complexes.

It is assumed that an anti-submarine system of this kind will be able to perform monitoring, search and targeting tasks with high efficiency. It should show high performance and reliability, recognize targets of all expected types with increased accuracy, etc.

In addition, the system based on the Lura complex has the potential for further upgrades. It will be possible to improve its characteristics by replacing hardware or software components, using new underwater platforms, etc. It is likely that the development company will be able to develop new application principles in the future.

Predictably, Helsing talks about its new development in an exclusively positive way. The developers give the Lura system a high rating and claim that it has a great future and good commercial prospects. In addition, the company has recently started testing such a system and has probably already received the first positive results.

Nevertheless, the real prospects of the new anti-submarine system remain uncertain. The proposed project is characterized by complexity, which can lead to increased technical risks. Because of this, the actual results of the project may not meet expectations. In addition, it is not known how potential customers will react to the Lura project and whether they will want to buy similar products.

The Ukrainian Armed Forces unveiled the Sky Sentinel autonomous machine-gun air defense turret

The Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) have introduced a new development — an autonomous machine-gun air defense turret called Sky Sentinel. Equipped with a 12.7mm M2 Browning machine gun, this system is designed for automated protection against aerial threats.

Sky Sentinel uses an infrared camera and an artificial intelligence-controlled computer to detect and target targets. The main feature of the turret is its autonomy: minimal human involvement is required — only to replenish ammunition and refuel the electric generator that powers the system.

The developers claim that Sky Sentinel is capable of effectively hitting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other aerial targets at low altitudes, making it a valuable asset for protecting critical facilities and positions. The estimated cost of the turret is about 150 thousand US dollars.

The introduction of Sky Sentinel can significantly increase the effectiveness of the air defense of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, especially in the context of the active use of drones in modern military conflicts. Automation and autonomy can reduce the burden on personnel and increase the speed of response to emerging threats.

GDELS presents a new self-propelled artillery system at FEINDEF 2025

Company General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) preparing to present its new self-propelled artillery system at the upcoming International Defense and Security Exhibition FEINDEF 2025, which will be held in Madrid. This system combines advanced technologies of modularity, mobility and automation, offering a modern solution for fire support on the battlefield.

The novelty is based on the well-proven ASCOD tracked chassis, which has been adapted and integrated with a fully automated 155 mm/52 caliber Artillery Module (AGM). This combination was made possible by GDELS' collaboration with the KMW + Nexter Defense Systems (KNDS) concern.

The central element of the system is the AGM tower, based on the design of the legendary German self-propelled gun PzH 2000, but modified to meet new combat requirements. It is characterized by a high degree of automation of loading, fire control and reloading, which significantly increases the rate of fire and reduces the reaction time to a change in the situation.

One of the key advantages of the new platform is its ** mobility and lower weight compared to traditional heavy artillery systems**. This makes it particularly attractive for rapidly changing theaters of war, where efficiency and maneuverability are important.

The creation of this system marks an important step in the development of modular solutions in ground-based weapons, allowing the armies of European countries to flexibly adapt their forces to modern challenges.

France is developing a new AI-powered artillery system to counter drones

 

CAESAR

France is actively working on the creation of a new artillery system that will replace the legendary CAESAR self-propelled howitzer. The new system will be equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) and is designed to maintain a tactical advantage in modern conflicts dominated by unmanned technologies. A detailed technical and operational study aimed at preparing a successor to CAESAR is scheduled for launch in 2025.

Despite the fact that CAESAR remains one of the most effective artillery systems in the world, the French defense ministry expresses concern about its ability to meet future requirements. Even an upgraded version of the CAESAR Mk2 will not be able to fully meet the strategic and operational objectives expected by the 2040s. 

The main challenge lies in the growing role of drones and other high-tech means of warfare. Modern conflicts show that traditional artillery systems are losing their effectiveness against new technologies. France is striving to create a system capable of adapting to these changes and ensuring superiority on the battlefield.

The new system will be developed taking into account advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence. Main features of the project:

- Process automation: AI will automate targeting, fire correction, and data analysis from drones.

-**Drone control**: The system will be integrated with anti-drone technologies to effectively counter threats.

- Mobility and survivability: The new artillery complex will be more mobile and protected from modern weapons.

- Network-centric architecture: The ability to interact with other elements of the combat network to coordinate actions.

This initiative aims to create a universal platform capable of adapting to the rapidly changing conditions of modern warfare.

France considers this project as a key element of its defense strategy for the coming decades. The new system should provide the country with a tactical advantage in an environment where the role of technology is becoming increasingly important. It also highlights France's desire to maintain its independence in the defense sector and not depend on arms imports.

In addition, the project could be an important step towards strengthening France's position in the global arms market. The successful development and implementation of the new system may attract the attention of NATO allies and other countries interested in modern artillery solutions.

The launch of a feasibility study in 2025 will be the first stage of the project. At this stage, the key requirements for the new system will be determined, including its tactical and technical characteristics, integration capabilities with existing platforms, and development costs. The study will also take into account the experience of using CAESAR and other artillery systems in real conflicts.

The success of this project largely depends on the ability of French defense companies to integrate advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence into artillery systems. If France can create an effective and universal platform, it will be an important step in the development of modern weapons.

However, the implementation of such ambitious projects requires significant investments and time. Therefore, the key success factor will be the support of the government and international partners.

The development of a new artillery system with artificial intelligence demonstrates France's desire to maintain leadership in the defense sector. This project is aimed at addressing the current challenges of modern warfare, such as the threat of drones and the need to automate combat operations. The introduction of the new system by the 2040s may be an important step to ensure the country's security and strengthen its position on the world stage.

Hanwha Aerospace presents the K9A3 concept design: a new evolution of the self-propelled howitzer

 

K9A3

South Korean defense company Hanwha Aerospace has released new promotional materials demonstrating the next stage in the development of its flagship K9 self-propelled howitzer. The new conceptual design, dubbed K9A3, promises to be a revolutionary step in the field of artillery systems thanks to advanced automation technologies and improved combat performance.

The K9A3 is an upgraded version of the legendary K9 self-propelled howitzer, which has already established itself internationally. According to promotional materials, the new system will be equipped with many innovative features that will significantly increase its effectiveness on the battlefield. Key features of the K9A3 include:

- Manned and unmanned control: The possibility of both traditional crew control and remote control via operator interfaces.

- Autonomous Driving: Integration of autonomous technologies to navigate and complete tasks without human intervention.

- New Turret Design: The improved turret provides increased firepower, accuracy, and protection.

- Improved Automation: Fully automated loading and firing processes reduce response time and increase productivity.

The K9A3 is designed to meet modern requirements for artillery systems, where speed, accuracy, and survivability are key factors. Thanks to the manned and unmanned control modes, the system can be used in a variety of conditions — from classic ground operations to complex urban battles. Autonomous driving also minimizes the risk to personnel, especially in high-risk areas.

In addition, the new turret design and improved automation provide a significant increase in the rate of fire and accuracy. This makes the K9A3 an ideal choice for supporting ground troops and performing strategic missions.

Hanwha Aerospace continues to strengthen its position as one of the leaders in the development of artillery systems. The K9A3 could become an important product on the international market, attracting the attention of countries seeking to modernize their armed forces. Experts point out that the demand for highly automated and multifunctional systems such as the K9A3 will only grow with the development of technology and the increasing complexity of military threats.

The presented conceptual design of the K9A3 demonstrates how future technologies are changing traditional ideas about weapons. Autonomous and unmanned solutions are becoming an integral part of modern warfare, and systems like the K9A3 set new standards for efficiency and versatility.

However, the successful implementation of the project will require significant investments in research and development, as well as close cooperation with international partners. If the K9A3 is successfully implemented, it will become a symbol of technological progress in the defense industry.