Stingray is an autonomous underwater drone that can wait for months at the bottom and turn on on command

Not just a drone, but an underwater ambush

The Stingray is not just another underwater vehicle that just floats and shoots. It is an autonomous machine designed to penetrate into hard-to-reach areas, anchor at the bottom and wait. To wait for weeks or even months in complete silence, without emitting a sound. And only on command — come to life, turn on the sonar, start reconnaissance or attack the target.

These drones are changing the rules of the game underwater.

What can he do — from intelligence to cable protection

The Stingray is positioned as a barrage autonomous underwater vehicle (ANPA) capable of operating at great depths. Its main tasks are:

• Conducting exploration in difficult waters
• Detection and tracking of submarines (PLO)
• Bottom mapping
• Protection of underwater infrastructures — cables, platforms, pipelines

It can carry up to 15 kg of payload, and modular — that is, the necessary sensors are installed for a specific mission: sonar, radar systems, or even weapons. This makes it universal.

How to launch and how to charge

You can launch Stingray from different platforms: from patrol boats, submarines, special vessels such as "Scan" or even from the shore. But the most interesting thing is the dock. Imagine an underwater "base" at the bottom, where the drone can return to recharge or transmit data.

The device is equipped with the possibility of underwater charging, and the standard battery lasts for 24 hours. With the additional module, the autonomy time increases. And in the "silent standby" mode, it consumes a minimum of energy, saving the charge until the right moment.

Why is this important for the Navy

Now more and more attention is being paid to underwater safety, especially after incidents involving damage to telecommunications cables. The fleet does not have enough resources to patrol all dangerous areas around the clock. And the Stingray can just lie on the bottom like a mine, but it's smart — and turn on only when it's needed.

It's not just about saving energy. This is a new level of control underwater.

Sources

1. Hi-Tech Mail.ru — testing the autonomous MQ-25 Stingray tanker
2. TenChat — Stingray underwater robot used on salmon farms
3. Korabel.ru — ANPA Stingray specs and mission profile
4. Oceanology — autonomous navigation and underwater robotics
5. RoboTrends — catalog of underwater robots including Stingray
6. Oceanos.ru — underwater gliders overview
7. 7ft.ru — discussion on Stingray-class vehicles
8. Korabel.ru — fleet information on Stingray systems
9. VK post — community notes on Stingray applications

Australia to order Japanese frigates: historic contract for Mitsubishi Heavy Industries

Japan's largest defense export contract

Earlier this month, Australia announced its decision to purchase modern frigates from the Japanese company Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. This has become the most significant defense contract for a Japanese manufacturer to date and an important milestone in expanding Tokyo's presence on the international arms market. The deal marks not only technological recognition, but also a strategic shift in Japan's defense policy.

How Japan got out of the arms export ban

For a long time, Japan has adhered to a strict policy of non-proliferation of weapons. The country's Constitution restricts the activities of the Armed Forces to self-defense, and in 1967, a complete ban on the export of defense products was actually introduced. However, in 2014, the government of Prime Minister Shinzo Abe radically changed course, relaxing the ban.

A new approach has been adopted: arms exports are allowed on a case-by-case basis, subject to strict compliance with the conditions. This allowed Japan to begin participating in international projects, including joint technology development and equipment supplies for the Allies.

Three principles of defense equipment transfer

The updated "Three Principles of Defense Equipment and Technology Transfer" define the framework for arms exports. The sale can only be approved if the following conditions are met:

The buyer is not under the UN embargo and is not involved in an active armed conflict.

The transfer clearly contributes to international peace, security, or the security of Japan itself.

Tokyo exercises strict control over end-use and retransmission, including mandatory prior consent for any transfer to a third party.

These principles allow Japan to maintain a responsible approach, avoiding weapons falling into the hands of unintended users and maintaining the trust of the international community.

The strategic importance of the deal for the region

The contract with Australia is not just a commercial success. It strengthens the strategic partnership between the two countries in the face of growing tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. Joint defense projects contribute to closer coordination, compatibility of weapons, and enhanced collective security.

For Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, this order opens the door to other international markets. The company demonstrates that Japanese technologies are able to compete with the world's leading manufacturers in the segment of modern warships.

The destroyer HMS Defender has received a new modular missile silo after extensive modernization

The first images of the British Type 45 destroyer HMS Defender, undergoing a deep modernization at the Portsmouth dock, have appeared. The ship, which is scheduled to return to service in the summer of 2026, became the first in the Royal Navy to receive a new modular missile silo. Instead of the original plan to expand the existing Sylver mine in the bow, the engineers abandoned the complex and risky integration on board. Instead, the new section was completely fabricated on land as a ready—made block and then installed on the ship using a heavy crane - this approach reduces work time and increases the accuracy of installation.

The new silo will accommodate additional cells of the universal launcher (VLS), which will significantly increase the ship's ammunition, especially in the context of the future deployment of attack missiles. Previously, there was an empty space three decks deep in the bow of the destroyer, which the team even adapted for a gym. Now it turns out that this place was originally intended to install longer VLS cells capable of carrying long-range cruise missiles, but the project was not implemented then. The current modernization can be a step towards restoring and realizing these capabilities, especially in light of the UK's strategic need to increase the strike potential of its destroyers. The updated HMS Defender will not only strengthen the fleet's air defense, but also gain the potential to conduct offensive operations.

Japan and the United States are collaborating on the development of new Aegis missile destroyers to replace the Congo class

 The Japanese Agency for Procurement, Technology and Logistics is indeed working with the US Department of the Navy to develop new missile destroyers with the Aegis combat system. According to the information, the contract with the US Department of Defense concerns a technical study on the replacement of Congo-class destroyers. As part of this program, Japan is upgrading its Aegis-equipped destroyers and plans to equip them with American Tomahawk cruise missiles with a range of more than 1,600 km. It is planned to increase the number of such destroyers from eight to ten by 2027. The move is part of Japan's new national security strategy aimed at strengthening countermeasures and defense in the region, including against threats from North Korea. Japan is also investing heavily in modernizing and expanding the capabilities of its maritime defense forces based on joint technologies with the United States. This initiative reflects the deepening of military-technical cooperation between the two countries and ensuring the high combat capability of the Japanese navy in the field of missile defense and strike capabilities.

Raytheon has received a $258 million U.S. Navy contract for the development and production of SM-2 missiles

Tucson, Arizona-based Raytheon has signed a major new contract with the U.S. Navy worth about $258 million. Under this contract, Raytheon will be engaged in the engineering development, production and refinement of Standard Missile 2 (SM-2) Block IIICU All Up Round missiles.

The SM-2 is considered one of the main anti-aircraft protection systems for US Navy ships. These missiles are effective for repelling attacks from enemy aircraft and anti-ship missiles at ranges up to 90 nautical miles and altitudes up to 20 kilometers.

Work under the contract is expected to be completed by September 2031. About 72% of the work will be carried out in Tucson, while the rest will be carried out at facilities in Connecticut, Great Britain, Utah and other places. The contract includes options to expand financing with a possible total of up to $263 million.

This project is in addition to the $344 million contract received by Raytheon in April this year, which was related to the integration and testing of the same SM-2 missile system. All of this highlights the continued interest and growing role of the SM-2 system as a key defense echelon for U.S. Navy ships.

SM-2 missiles are successfully used not only in the United States, but also by allies around the world, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan and other countries. This complex remains an important element of a multi-level marine protection system for several more decades.

New generation American submarines are running late — now wait until 2040

The US Navy's plans to launch a new generation of state—of—the-art submarines, the SSN(X) program, are not going according to schedule. Moreover, now we are talking about a serious delay — possibly until 2040. That is, instead of entering service in the late 2030s, the first boats of this class may enter service only in the next decade.

SSNs(X) are designed as a response to the growing threat from Russia and China — faster, quieter, with increased combat load and advanced systems. Simply put, it should be the main underwater weapon of the United States in the future. But now the program is stuck: design problems, overloaded shipyards, staff shortages, and simply bureaucratic brakes.

Experts are already sounding the alarm — every delay weakens the strategic advantage of the United States underwater. Meanwhile, Russian and Chinese submarines are not waiting. So while America is slow, competitors are actively building up their strength under the waves.

Coordinated deployment of aircraft carriers of Great Britain, France and Italy in the Indo-Pacific region: strengthening the presence of European fleets

In 2025, the Navies of Great Britain, France and Italy announced plans for the coordinated deployment of their aircraft carriers in the Indo-Pacific region, a step that marks the growth of European military interest in this strategically important area. This decision was a response to China's growing influence and increasing pressure from Russia, as well as part of a broader strategy to ensure freedom of navigation and strengthen international order in the Pacific Ocean.

The Royal Navy of Great Britain, the second largest in tonnage in the world, is taking a key role in the new initiative. Despite the fact that only a third of the British navy's destroyers are operational, the country continues to demonstrate activity outside Europe. The British aircraft carrier HMS Queen Elizabeth is scheduled to be sent to the Indo-Pacific region to participate in joint operations. This will be a logical continuation of recent maneuvers, when British ships were already monitoring Russian maritime activity in May 2025.

In this context, special attention is being paid to the introduction of new technologies, such as the autonomous SWEEP system designed to detect naval mines — this increases the combat stability of the fleet in difficult conditions.

The French Navy, which is actively developing the Vortex hypersonic space aircraft project, also intends to demonstrate its projection of power in the Indo-Pacific region using the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier. The move underscores Paris' desire to expand its global influence, especially after massive investments in the defense industry.

Italy, which has experience in operations with the aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, has declared its readiness to participate in multinational exercises in the southern waters of the Pacific Ocean. The participation of all three countries in a single deployment indicates increased coordination between the European fleets and their desire to work together in a changing geopolitical environment.

This joint deployment is not just a demonstration of military might, but also a political signal to Moscow and Beijing. It recalls that European Powers remain involved in security issues at the global level, especially in light of the decline in the number of combat vehicles and equipment over the past two decades. In addition, it opens up opportunities for enhanced cooperation with countries such as Japan, South Korea and Australia, which are also concerned about the growing militarization in the region.

Turkey on the threshold of a new era: joint aircraft carrier project with Spain strengthens naval potential

On July 3, 2025, Turkey's naval ambitions took a decisive new turn. The Turkish Presidential Defense Industry Agency (SSB) has officially confirmed the launch of a joint project with Spain to develop a 300—meter-long aircraft carrier, a step that could significantly change the balance of power in the region and make Turkey one of the world's leading maritime powers.

This high-profile announcement was a logical continuation of the TCG Anadolu program, a multifunctional amphibious assault ship that was originally planned to be upgraded into an unmanned aircraft carrier. However, the new plans demonstrate a significant expansion of Ankara's strategic goals. The joint development with Spain indicates a desire for technological exchange and integration into European security structures, despite the difficult geopolitical realities of recent years.

The new aircraft carrier will become the flagship of the Turkish navy and will provide the country with the opportunity to project power far beyond its borders. Its size — 300 meters — allows us to talk about a full-fledged attack ship capable of carrying carrier-based aircraft, including fifth-generation fighters and new-generation drones. This makes it competitive both among its European counterparts and in comparison with the aircraft carriers of the United States and China.

Ankara is thus demonstrating its determination to strengthen its influence in the Mediterranean and Black Seas, regions where competition has intensified in recent years, especially after the events around Ukraine and the growing activity of NATO. The presence of a modern aircraft carrier will allow Turkey to play a more independent and assertive role in these waters, while strengthening its position as a key player in the region.

Cooperation with Spain in the framework of the Varyant aircraft carrier project (the name has not yet been specified) is an important element of the strategic partnership between the two countries. Spain, which has experience in operating aircraft carriers and building large ships, provides access to advanced technologies and know-how, which significantly speeds up the project implementation process.

In addition, this cooperation fits into a broad program of cooperation in the field of defense: previously, the parties had already worked on the creation of new UAVs and air defense systems, as well as participated in joint exercises. Such relations open up opportunities for Turkey to deepen its integration with the European Union in the field of defense, despite political differences in other areas.

The aircraft carrier project has become only part of a large-scale development plan for the Turkish navy. In early 2025, the Ministry of Defense announced the construction of 31 new warships, including frigates, submarines and corvettes, indicating a systematic approach to fleet modernization. Also in January 2025, the large-scale Mavi Vatan 2025 exercises were completed, designed to demonstrate the readiness of the Turkish fleet to operate on the high seas and promptly respond to external challenges.

It is also worth noting that the development of the country's maritime capabilities goes hand in hand with other ambitious projects.: The serial production of Altay tanks, the development of the SIPER-1 air defense system and the export of its own weapons, the volume of which increased by 67% in the first four months of 2025 compared to the previous year.

TKMS has signed the largest service contract with the Bundeswehr for the modernization of Type 212A submarines worth over 800 million euros

ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) has signed one of the largest service contracts in its history with the Bundeswehr's Federal Office for Equipment, Information Technology and Operational Support (BAAINBw). The official signing ceremony took place in Koblenz.

Under the contract, TKMS will act as the general contractor and provide comprehensive modernization and technical support services for six Type 212A submarines in service with the German Navy. The total order volume exceeds 800 million euros, and the agreement is valid for ten years.

This contract will significantly extend the service life and enhance the combat capabilities of the submarines, ensuring their compliance with modern safety and efficiency requirements.

The fourth nuclear submarine of the Barracuda class "De Grasse" left the construction workshop

Barracuda-class nuclear attack submarine

On May 27, 2025, the fourth Barracuda-class nuclear attack submarine, named De Grasse, was removed from the construction workshop for transfer to a DME-type floating platform. This submarine is part of a series of six Suffren-class submarines that will gradually replace the obsolete Rubis-class nuclear submarines in the French navy.

De Grasse is the fourth vessel under the Barracuda program, and her rollout marks an important milestone in the project's implementation. After being placed on a floating platform, the submarine will undergo final work and initial tests at the berth, which will prepare it for the start of sea trials scheduled for 2026.

The Barracuda program is aimed at modernizing and strengthening the French submarine fleet, providing increased combat capabilities and technological level of the submarine. The new boats are equipped with modern weapons systems, improved acoustic camouflage and enhanced capabilities to perform various combat missions.

The deployment of De Grasse to a floating platform is a key step that brings the French navy closer to upgrading its submarine forces and maintaining a strategic balance in the region. The successful completion of the sea trials will allow the submarine to be put into operation and increase the country's defense capability.

US nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz returns to disputed South China Sea

 

The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, one of the oldest operating aircraft carriers in the U.S. Navy, was spotted returning to the South China Sea, a region where China claims most of the maritime territories. This return comes amid escalating regional tensions and intensifying territorial disputes between China and its neighbors.

The USS Nimitz is located in the area of responsibility of the US Seventh Fleet, based in Japan, which maintains the presence of American naval forces in the western Pacific Ocean. The aircraft carrier provides a demonstration of strength and readiness for combat, which serves as a deterrent in a region where China is actively consolidating its territorial claims.

In early May, Nimitz conducted two weeks of operations in the South China Sea, after which it passed through the important Malacca Strait linking the South China Sea with the Indian Ocean. During this time, the aircraft carrier visited the ports of Malaysia and Guam, demonstrating international cooperation and the US presence in the region.

The return of the USS Nimitz coincides with increased activity by Chinese naval forces, including the aircraft carrier Shandong, which is also conducting exercises in the area. China considers the South China Sea as its exclusive economic zone and regularly conducts operations to protect its interests, which leads to frequent clashes with the naval forces of neighboring countries and the United States.

The presence of the Nimitz aircraft carrier in the region is an important element of the US strategy to ensure freedom of navigation and maintain international order in the Indo-Pacific region. It is also a signal to Beijing of Washington's readiness to defend the interests of its allies and deter aggressive actions.

Thus, the return of the USS Nimitz to the South China Sea highlights the ongoing rivalry between the United States and China for influence in the strategically important region and maintains tensions in international relations.

The Israel Defense Forces uses drones to protect economic waters and strategic facilities

 

Blue Whale unmanned submarine

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) is actively implementing unmanned aerial vehicles and underwater vehicles to monitor and analyze maritime threats in the country's exclusive economic zone. For the first time in recent weeks, the Israeli Navy has deployed unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) capable of creating a wide sea picture and tracking vessel movements in Israel's economic waters.

These drones collect and document data that is used to analyze threats and make decisions on the deployment of forces in the maritime theater of operations. Special attention is paid to the protection of strategically important facilities such as Israel's gas rigs, which are vital to the country's energy security.

The underwater unmanned vehicles developed by leading Israeli companies are equipped with modern navigation and reconnaissance equipment, which makes it possible to effectively monitor underwater space and identify potential threats, including hostile submarines and minefields. Israeli technologies in the field of UUV are recognized as one of the most advanced in the world, which is confirmed by the interest and cooperation with other countries, for example, Germany.

The use of unmanned systems significantly expands the capabilities of the Israeli Navy, reducing risks for personnel and increasing the effectiveness of maritime border protection. In the context of growing instability in the region and increasing maritime threats, such innovative solutions are becoming key elements of national security.

Thus, the integration of unmanned aerial vehicles and underwater vehicles into Israel's defense structure demonstrates the country's commitment to technological leadership and ensures reliable protection of important economic and strategic interests at sea.

French authorities have arrested a British fishing vessel for illegal fishing

  

French authorities have detained a British fishing vessel accused of illegally fishing in French territorial waters. The ship was stopped in the English Channel on Thursday evening by the French Navy and taken to the port of Boulogne, where it is under arrest. The crew of the vessel was allegedly engaged in fishing without the necessary license, which is a violation of French law.

At the moment, the vessel is unable to leave the port while the French law enforcement authorities are considering whether to open a criminal case. The incident has caused tension between France and the UK, given the importance of fishing for both countries and the ongoing disputes over maritime borders and fishing quotas after Brexit.

The French navy carefully controls its water borders and actively suppresses any attempts at illegal fishing. The detention of the vessel in the English Channel demonstrates France's determination to protect its economic interests and natural resources.

The further development of the situation will depend on the results of the investigation and possible diplomatic negotiations between the two countries. However, this case already highlights the importance of strict compliance with international and national fishing regulations.

North Korea's new frigate Choi Hyon: the power of ballistic missiles at sea

 

View of the main melee system (CIWS) closer to the rear of the ship's superstructure

North Korea has officially unveiled its new Choi Hyon air combat frigate, causing a wide response in military circles. This ship, equipped with 74 vertical launchers, is capable of launching cruise and ballistic missiles, as well as anti-aircraft missile systems. The new frigate has become a symbol of the DPRK's ambitions in the field of naval construction and demonstrates significant progress in the development of the country's offensive and defensive capabilities.

The Choi Hyon frigate has the tail number 51, which may be a reference to the DDG-51 Arleigh Burke class destroyers of the US Navy. Although there are some external similarities between the ships, Choi Hyon differs significantly in its characteristics and tasks. According to preliminary data, the ship's displacement is about 5,000 tons, but the exact parameters remain in question.

A powerful deck gun, presumably 127 mm caliber, is mounted on the bow of the ship, designed to destroy both surface and ground targets. Closer to the rear of the superstructure, close combat systems (CIWS) are visible, which provide protection from enemy missiles and aircraft. However, Choi Hyon's main feature is its vertical launchers, which make the ship a versatile combat platform.

The main focus is on the number and variety of weapons on board the Choi Hyon. 74 vertical launchers allow the ship to carry various types of missiles, including:

- Ballistic missiles: capable of hitting targets at long range.

- Cruise missiles: designed for precision strikes against land and sea targets.

- Anti-aircraft missile systems: providing air defense of the ship and surrounding areas.

Such equipment makes Choi Hyon one of the most powerful ships of its class, capable of performing a wide range of tasks — from air defense to striking strategic targets.

Choi Hyon's appearance underscores North Korea's desire to strengthen its naval forces and demonstrate technological independence. This ship can be used to increase pressure on neighboring countries, as well as to protect strategically important waters. Experts note that the presence of ballistic missiles on a ship of this size is an unprecedented step that could change the balance of power in the region.

Although Choi Hyon looks impressive on paper, the question remains about the ship's actual effectiveness in modern naval combat. Its success will depend on the level of integration of control systems, radars and communications equipment, as well as on the training of the crew. In addition, the international community is closely monitoring the development of the DPRK's naval programs, fearing further destabilization of the region.

The Choi Hyon frigate has become a symbol of North Korea's military ambitions, demonstrating significant progress in the creation of multi-purpose warships. Equipped with advanced weapons systems, it can become an important element of the DPRK's strategy to strengthen its position in the region. However, its real impact on the balance of power will become clear only after testing and possible use in real operations.

Lockheed Martin is negotiating with Japan on the licensed production of the Mk70 system

Mk70

Lockheed Martin has announced the start of preliminary negotiations with the Japanese industry regarding the possible licensed production of the latest Mk70 vertical launch system. This system, also known as the Payload Delivery System, is an innovative development that combines proven technologies and state-of-the-art solutions to enhance naval combat capabilities.

The Mk70 is based on the Mk41 VLS (Vertical Launcher), designed and manufactured by Lockheed Martin. The Mk41 system has already established itself as a reliable and versatile tool for launching rockets of various types and classes. It has been adopted by the navies of 15 countries, including the US Navy. The new Mk70 system adapts this technology for use in a 40-foot container, making it a mobile and easily deployable platform.

A special feature of the Mk70 is the ability to place a four-section vertical launcher inside a container. The container is equipped with a tilting mechanism that rises to launch rockets. This provides flexibility in deployment and allows the system to be used even on ships not equipped with traditional launchers.

For Japan, which is actively modernizing its naval forces in the face of growing threats in the region, licensed production of the Mk70 could be an important step. This will allow the country not only to strengthen its defense capabilities, but also to develop its own defense industry through advanced technologies.

The development and deployment of the Mk70 demonstrate Lockheed Martin's commitment to offering innovative solutions for modern naval challenges. The system can be used to launch various types of missiles, including anti-ship, anti-aircraft and cruise missiles, making it a versatile tool for maritime safety.

Chinese low-frequency detector technology is causing alarm in the US

The United States has declared a nationwide alert after Chinese scientists unveiled a revolutionary acoustic technology capable of detecting low-frequency sound sources at extreme depths of the ocean. This achievement is intended to significantly enhance China's submarine warfare capabilities and change the balance of naval forces in strategically important regions such as the Beaufort Sea in the Arctic.

Technology Details

- Low-frequency detector: Chinese scientists have developed an acoustic technology capable of detecting low-frequency sound sources at depths up to 1,000 meters.

- Efficiency: The technology can detect underwater objects, including submarines, at a distance of up to 100 kilometers.

- Application: This allows China to more effectively control underwater space in strategically important areas such as the Beaufort Sea in the Arctic.

US reaction

- National Alert: The United States has issued a national alert, expressing concern that new technology could threaten the country's security.

- Strategic implications: Experts point out that this could change the balance of naval forces in the region and require new security measures.

French and British carrier groups change to the Mediterranean

 

Flagship aircraft carrier CSG 25 HMS Prince of Wales

After a 105-day deployment east of Suez, the French aircraft carrier FS Charles de Gaulle (R91), accompanied by the Horizon-class frigate FS Forbin (D620), the FREMM Provence (D652) and Alsace (D656) class frigates and the tanker Jacques Chevallier (A725) passed north through the Suez 

Canal on April 7. The Clemencau 25 Carrier Strike Group (CSG) now appears to be heading home to Toulon, and it likely includes a nuclear-powered attack submarine, the type of which has not been identified.

While the French are returning home, the British CSG 25 is preparing to sail from Portsmouth for an eight-month round trip to the Yokosuka Naval Base in Japan, including transit through the Suez Canal and the Red Sea. CSG 25 flagship HMS Prince of Wales (R09) has completed the Tamber Shield exercise in the North Sea, a 20-day deployment preparation, and has loaded from an ammunition depot in Scotland. A detailed deployment schedule has not been released, but CSG is scheduled for April 22.

Based on a similar deployment to the Pacific Ocean of its sister ship HMS Queen Elizabeth (R08) in 2021, the Prince of Wales CSG is likely to pass through the Red Sea in May and return in November. It is unclear whether this plan was coordinated with the United States, for which the simultaneous maintenance of two aircraft carriers in the CENTCOM zone puts a strain on resources.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian is undergoing sea trials: images from the sky

 

The image from the sky shows the Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian practicing maneuvers.

Commercial satellite images appear to show the vessel during its seventh sea trials, which are known to be taking place in the Bohai Sea.

The images, which were reportedly taken on Friday and Saturday over the Bohai Bay in northeastern China, show that the focus of the tests was on the steering and maneuverability of the Fujian.

China expands nuclear fleet: six Jin-class ballistic missile submarines

 The US Strategic Command has officially assessed that the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) operates six Jin-class ballistic missile submarines (Type 094), which constitutes China's first reliable sea-based nuclear deterrent, as each vessel is equipped with up to 12 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs). This capability provides China with a second-strike capability and is part of a broader expansion of its strategic forces, in line with President Xi Jinping's directive on military readiness for a potential operation against Taiwan by 2027, which has led to investments in land-based missiles, strategic bombers, and naval assets.

Chinese Jin Class Submarine (Type 094)

New Danish Fleet Development Plan: capacity building and modernization

 

The Danish Ministry of Defense has presented a new fleet development plan, which includes a short-term plan to rapidly strengthen certain key capabilities, as well as a long-term plan aimed at major surface ships.

The short-term plan centers around the need to strengthen mission capabilities in Danish inland waters, including pollution control, mine warfare, patrol duties, and surveillance of critical underwater infrastructure. This will include the arrival of five larger vessels of two different classes, as well as the replacement of the main Marinehjemmeværnet (Naval Home Guard) class MHV 800 patrol vessel. The MHV 800 class is a conventional design with a displacement of 83 tons, with a total of 18 units under construction. Distributed throughout the country, they maintain a local naval presence in many places where military vessels would otherwise rarely be seen. The class also includes the extended MHV851 Sabotøren, which is called the MHV 850 subclass, and must also be replaced. A total of 21 new patrol vessels will be purchased to provide the force with a modern platform.