AbramsX is not just a tank, but a robot with armor: how the United States is changing the face of tank troops

Fewer People, more AI — what's changed under the armor

The AbramsX tank is not another upgrade of the old Abrams. This is an attempt to rewrite the rules of the game. Instead of just installing new guns and armor, the Americans revised the concept itself. Now there are not three, but two people in the crew. Artificial intelligence takes over some of their functions: it monitors the situation, filters threats, helps target designation, and can even participate in fire control.

This is no longer just a car with a driver and a gunner — it's a combat module with a man inside.

Stealth that the radar does not see

One of the main advantages of AbramsX is its stealth technology. Yes, exactly like the F-35 fighter jets. The new tank was redesigned to reduce the radar and heat footprint. The shape of the hull, engine shielding, and special coatings all make it harder for the enemy to spot.

On a battlefield where every meter gives you an advantage, being invisible means surviving longer and hitting more accurately.

Cheaper to build and longer to serve

Old tanks are expensive. They are difficult to repair, maintenance swallows money, and spare parts are in short supply. AbramsX is made in a different way. Designers have moved away from monolithic solutions to modular architecture. The blocks can be changed, updated, and equipped with new weapons without redesigning the entire machine.

Plus— a new engine with a hybrid installation. It is quieter, more economical and provides more energy for electronics. All this reduces the cost of ownership and increases the service life.

Why is AbramsX not an upgrade, but a leap forward?

Previously, tanks developed linearly: the cannon was more powerful, the armor was thicker. AbramsX breaks this pattern. He's not just stronger—he's smarter, stealthier, and more adaptable. It can be used as a scout, as a strike platform, as a mobile command post.

The US Army does not want to repeat the mistake of having a fleet of outdated vehicles when the war has already changed. AbramsX is an attempt to get ahead of tomorrow's fight. And if it works, then the next decades of tank forces will be different.

Sources

1. Armored Warfare — AbramsX hybrid power-pack & combat potential
2. MensNow.ru — Weapons & tech overview of AbramsX
3. iXBT.com — Unmanned turret concept & AI integration details
4. Integral-Russia.ru — Special-variant AbramsX with advanced protection systems
5. BMPD — Demo models & future prospects round-up

China for the first time will show the J-20 fighter jet up close at the Changchun Air Show

J-20 on static display is an unprecedented step

For the first time, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLAAF) Air Force will allow the general public to see its most advanced fifth-generation fighter jet, the J-20, in close proximity. The aircraft will be on static display at the International Airshow, which will be held from September 19 to 23, 2025 in Changchun, Jilin Province.

Until that moment, the J-20, known by the nickname "Mighty Dragon," could only be observed in the air — during military parades, demonstration flights, or closed-door exercises. This step indicates China's growing confidence in its military and technical achievements.

Changchun Airshow: demonstration of strength and technology

The Changchun event will become one of the key platforms for the presentation of achievements of the Chinese defense industry. In addition to the J-20, other advanced systems are expected to be shown at the airshow, from drones to J-16 and J-10C multirole fighters.

Placing the J-20 in a static parking lot gives viewers and foreign observers the opportunity to study in detail its shape, lines, antenna groups and elements of stealth design, which was previously unavailable.

Symbolism of the event: 80th anniversary of liberation from Japanese occupation

The airshow is timed to coincide with an important historical date — the 80th anniversary of China's liberation from Japanese occupation at the end of World War II. This gives the event not only technical, but also deep ideological significance. The J-20, as a symbol of the country's modern power, juxtaposes the past, highlighting China's transformation from a weakened state into a technological and military leader.

This combination of memory and show of force is part of Beijing's strategic communication.

The evolution of the J-20's accessibility to the public

Since its first public appearance in 2011, the J-20 has gone from a closed project to a symbol of national pride. The gradual expansion of access to information and visual inspection of the aircraft indicates China's intention to use it not only as a combat unit, but also as a tool of soft power to strengthen its image in the eyes of both domestic and international audiences.

The static display may be the beginning of a new tradition — open demonstrations of advanced systems at national and international exhibitions.

China has developed "invisibility" technology for AWACS aircraft — the signals have become elusive for air defense

Vulnerability of AWACS aircraft: a challenge requiring innovation

Long-range radar detection and control (AWACS) aircraft, such as the Chinese KJ-2000 and KJ-500, play a key role in modern air operations, acting as "air command centers." However, their powerful radar radiation, which is necessary to survey vast territories and control groups, makes them easily detectable. This makes them high-priority targets for air defense and interceptor fighters.

For a long time, this vulnerability remained a weak point in the Air Force's strategy. Now China, according to scientists, has found a technological solution.

A new method of masking radio signals

The Chinese Air Force and leading research institutes have developed an innovative method that makes the radio signals of AWACS aircraft virtually invulnerable to interception and geolocation. Instead of emitting a single, easily identifiable signal, the system distributes radiation between multiple antennas, each operating at a slightly different frequency.

This approach dramatically reduces the likelihood of enemy aircraft detection and tracking.

How does a "chaotic" signal work?

The method can be compared to a choir of hundreds of singers singing the same melody, but each with a slight deviation in tone. At close range, the chorus sounds harmonious and clear, but with distance, the sound becomes chaotic and unintelligible to the listener. Similarly, the signals from the antennas of the AWACS aircraft, coordinated on board, merge at a distance into "radio noise", which is extremely difficult to decode or use to determine the direction to the source.

For electronic warfare and air defense systems of the enemy, such a signal is lost against the background of natural interference, which provides a high degree of secrecy.

Strategic advantage in electronic warfare

This breakthrough gives Chinese aviation a significant advantage. AWACS aircraft will be able to stay in the combat zone longer without risking being shot down, and continue to coordinate the actions of fighters, attack drones and ground forces. This increases the stability of the entire air operating network.

The technology can also be adapted to other platforms such as reconnaissance aircraft, drones, and ground—based radars, enhancing the overall electronic protection of the PLA Armed Forces.

A mysterious invisible aircraft with a "flying wing" design was filmed over China

Mysterious drone in satellite images: the first mentions

At the beginning of the year, analysts and enthusiasts tracking military installations using satellite images discovered an unusual aircraft in China. In the images taken over one of the test sites, a large drone with a "flying wing" configuration was seen — without a tail and with smooth outlines typical of stealth aircraft.

Then the device was seen on the ground, which allowed us to estimate its size and shape. However, there have recently been reports that a similar aircraft has already been spotted in the air, indicating that the project is moving to the flight test stage.

The "flying wing" design: what does it mean

The "flying wing" design is an aviation scheme in which the fuselage and wing are combined into a single lifting surface. This shape reduces radar visibility, improves aerodynamics and increases flight range. This design is actively used in strategic aviation, for example, in the American B-2 Spirit and B-21 Raider bombers.

Given that the Chinese device has a similar shape, it can be assumed that it is being developed using advanced stealth technologies. Its large dimensions indicate the possibility of long-term missions at high altitudes, which is typical for strategic reconnaissance or strike platforms.

Comparison with previously seen samples

The new aircraft shows a clear resemblance to the drone found in satellite images earlier this year. Both objects have a similar shape, wingspan and lack of vertical tail. However, current observations confirm that the device is not just built — it is already being tested in the air.

This indicates significant progress in China's unmanned systems development program. If the initial images raised doubts about the reality of the project, it is now obvious that China is actively developing its own line of large, inconspicuous drones.

Possible purpose of the new aircraft

Although there is no official data on the purpose of the device, experts suggest several options.:

Strategic reconnaissance is a long flight at high altitudes using radar and optical systems.

Long—range attack drone - the ability to carry cruise missiles or precision weapons.

A communications repeater or control node is a role in network warfare and coordination of other drones.

Such a device can become an important element of Chinese military aviation, especially in potential conflicts in the Pacific region, where the ability to operate over long distances with minimal risk is important.

European MBDA Develops New Attack UAV: Simplicity and Mass Character are the Key to Success

The European company MBDA is developing a promising unmanned aerial vehicle called One Way Effector. The goal of the project is to create the simplest and cheapest UAV that could be mass—produced and used in combat conditions. This approach promises new opportunities and advantages.

The course of simplification

MBDA recently presented its new project at the Paris International Air Show. They revealed its goals and features, and also showed an advertising image demonstrating the group use of these UAVs.

The One Way Effector project is being created by order of the French armed forces, who were impressed by the Russian massive strikes using the Geranium series UAVs. Last year, the French military conveyed its wishes to MBDA, and the company began working on a new concept. By now, the shape of the future UAV has already been formed, and technical work is underway.

Simplicity and mass character

The OWL UAV will be as simple and cheap as possible, which will allow for its mass production and group use. Due to the large number of UAVs, it is planned to break through and suppress the enemy's air defenses. Massive OWL raids will help uncover enemy radar and firepower positions, which will be used to suppress them. Some of the UAVs will take over the fire, use up enemy ammunition, and the remaining drones will be able to reach their targets with less risk. After the enemy's air defenses are weakened, other forces, such as tactical aircraft with their air-to-ground ammunition, will take part in the strikes.

Plans for the future

The design of the OWL began at the end of last year and is nearing completion. The first flights of the prototype are scheduled for this fall. In the near future, MBDA plans to present the results to the French Ministry of Defense and begin negotiations on possible purchases. Upon receipt of the contract, the company is ready to launch mass production no later than 2027, assembling up to 1,000 OWL products per month.

MBDA is also in talks with an unnamed automotive company about joint production of UAVs, which may be related to the OWL project.

The suggested look

MBDA showed what the promising OWL UAVs will look like. The device will have a torpedo-shaped fuselage and a mid-mounted triangular wing with V-shaped tips. The airframe will be made of plastic and composites. It is assumed that the UAV will have limited radar visibility due to the use of some "stealth technologies".

The UAV will be equipped with a small-sized short-life turbojet engine with an air intake on the upper surface of the fuselage. Flight characteristics have not yet been announced, but the propulsion system will achieve high subsonic speeds and a range of hundreds of kilometers.

Control and launch

The UAV control system will be simple and cheap, using satellite navigation to plot a course to the target. Communication with ground facilities and the formation of a "swarm" are not provided. The UAV will launch from a catapult or an inclined guide mounted on suitable self-propelled platforms, which will ensure rapid and massive launch preparations.

Borrowed ideas

Russian attack UAVs "Geran-2" have become one of the main novelties used during the Special Operation to protect Donbass. Their successes attracted the attention of foreign armies, and France decided to create its own version of an attack drone similar to Russian and Iranian models.

The concept of an inexpensive and simple OWL attack UAV looks promising and has a great future. However, its real prospects depend on MBDA's ability to create a design that meets all specific requirements. The tests will begin in the fall, and then it will be possible to draw the first conclusions about its success.

South Korean K3 tank with AI and active protection is moving into mass production

South Korea continues to work on its new promising K3 tank, which should replace the already well-known K2 Black Panther. The ambitious program is steadily moving forward — Hyundai Rotem has recently successfully tested an updated 130 mm cannon, developed a new generation of armor, advanced active protection systems and the integration of artificial intelligence.

The main highlight of the K3 will be the improved 130mm cannon, which Hyundai Rotem has just successfully tested. This gun should provide the tank with a significant advantage over the current 120mm systems installed on most Western tanks. It is expected that the new gun will have increased armor penetration and accuracy at long range.

The new K3 armor has been developed using advanced materials and technologies that have reduced its weight while maintaining a high degree of protection. This is especially important, because the lighter the armor, the more maneuverable and faster the tank becomes, which is critical in modern combat conditions.

In addition, an active protection system (SAZ) will be installed in the tank, which will be able to intercept anti—tank missiles and ammunition even before they collide with the hull of the vehicle - this will significantly increase the survival rate of the crew and equipment in combat.

The K3 tank is being created using artificial intelligence, which will help in targeting, pointing weapons, and even making tactical decisions. The project also uses technologies to reduce visibility, including reducing the thermal signature and reducing radar reflectivity, which makes the tank a difficult target for the enemy.

So far, the tank is under active development, but if everything goes according to plan, the K3 should become the flagship of the South Korean Army, replacing the aging but still modern K2 Black Panther. Given the pace of modernization and the scale of investments, South Korea is clearly aiming to create one of the most technologically advanced tanks of the new generation.

K3 tank

The United States and Saudi Arabia are discussing a potential deal for the supply of F-35s: a possible turn in regional policy

The United States and Saudi Arabia have held talks on Riyadh's potential purchase of Lockheed F-35 fighter jets, two sources familiar with the discussions said. According to the interlocutors, the kingdom has been showing interest in these advanced fifth-generation aircraft with stealth technology and high combat effectiveness for many years.

However, as one of the informants noted, it remains unclear whether Washington will give the green light to this deal, since the F-35 is also used by Israel, a key US ally in the Middle East. The delivery of such aircraft to Saudi Arabia could change the balance of power in the region and cause concern in Tel Aviv.

If the agreement is approved, it will become part of broader strategic cooperation between the countries, including defense contracts, energy and space projects. Recall that on May 13, 2025, the parties signed a record agreement worth about $142 billion, including arms supplies and infrastructure development.

The potential F-35 deal is seen as an important step in strengthening Saudi Arabia's position in the face of growing geopolitical challenges in the Persian Gulf and the country's desire to modernize its aircraft to modern fifth-generation standards.

F-35

Turkey makes a breakthrough in unmanned technologies: the KIZILELMA fighter jet will join the aircraft carrier fleet by 2026

Bayraktar KIZILELMA

The Turkish developer Baykar, known for its successful UAVs such as Bayraktar TB2, presented a new stage in the development of the national aerospace program — the KIZILELMA unmanned fighter aircraft. As expected, this high-tech attack drone will join the aircraft carrier fleet of the Turkish Naval Forces by 2026, which will be an important step towards the country's strategic defense independence.

KIZILELMA (Kalemli İHA Stealth Test Aircraft) is a promising fifth—generation attack drone with elements of stealth technology. Its main characteristics:

- Take—off weight is about 4.5 tons  

- The maximum speed is over 900 km/h  

- Range — over 1,500 km  

- Vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capability  

- Integration of air-to-air and air-to-surface guided missiles

Thanks to these parameters, KIZILELMA can perform the tasks of interception, reconnaissance and pinpoint strikes, competing with modern manned fighters.  

According to the plans of the Turkish Ministry of Defense, KIZILELMA will be based on the new Turkish aircraft carrier type TGC Anadolu, which has already been upgraded to work with unmanned systems. This will create a unique air group combining deck helicopters and attack drones, providing flexibility and autonomy of operations on the high seas.  

In addition, the integration of UAVs into the aircraft carrier structure opens up new opportunities for joint operations with allies, especially given the growing interest in automated combat platforms in NATO.

The launch of KIZILELMA into mass production and its adoption by 2026 symbolize Turkey's transition to a new level of technological sovereignty. The country demonstrates the ability to develop and produce sophisticated military equipment without dependence on Western suppliers.  

It also strengthens the export potential of the Turkish defense industry. Given the success of Bayraktar TB2 on the international market, KIZILELMA may become a sought-after solution among countries seeking to modernize their air forces without the involvement of traditional suppliers from the United States or the EU.

The KIZILELMA program highlights Turkey's ambitions not only in the region, but also on the global stage. The creation of its own unmanned fighter allows Ankara to strengthen its military presence in the Black Sea, the Aegean Basin and the Eastern Mediterranean.  

In addition, the development of the domestic aerospace sector reduces dependence on external factors, such as restrictions on the supply of American F-35 fighter jets, which previously included Turkey.

New photo of a sixth-generation Chinese fighter jet: details about the J-XDS (J-50)

J-XDS (J-50) 

 New photos of a promising sixth-generation Chinese fighter aircraft being developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC) have appeared online. These images, considered the highest quality at the moment, give a clearer picture of the design of the aircraft, known as the J-XDS (or J-50).  

Analyzing the latest images, experts suggest that the fighter may be equipped with thrust vector deflection engines. Similar power plants were demonstrated at the Airshow China Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai in 2022. Such engines will significantly increase the fighter's maneuverability, making it even more competitive against analogues such as the American NGAD or the Russian Su-57 project of the next generation.

  The J-XDS design demonstrates the use of advanced technologies, including stealth technology, the integration of artificial intelligence and the ability to control unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as part of the so-called "drone packs". The aircraft is also likely to be equipped with hypersonic weapons and next-generation electronic warfare systems.  

Although the exact specifications and completion dates of the program remain classified, the appearance of new photographs confirms the seriousness of China's intentions in developing sixth-generation fighters. This event highlights the country's desire to take a leading position in the air force technology race.  

Experts note that the J-XDS can become a key element of the modernization of the PLA Air Force, strengthening China's ability to counter the United States and other potential adversaries. Serial production of the fighter is expected to begin in the coming years, although the exact timing remains a matter of speculation.  

Latest achievements in the field of the Chinese tailless stealth fighter J-50

J-50

Recently, the Chinese aviation industry has once again attracted the attention of military enthusiasts and experts around the world. On April 5, 2025, new images of China's sixth-generation J-50 stealth fighter, developed by Shenyang Aircraft Corporation (SAC), were published. This happened three months after this type of aircraft was first spotted in the sky on December 26, 2024. Despite the fact that the cockpit canopy is barely visible in the image, more and more evidence indicates that this is a manned fighter jet.

The design of the J-50 is aimed at achieving a number of combat advantages. The shape of the fuselage is optimized to minimize the radar signal. The fighter's design uses advanced stealth technology, including sharp corners, smooth surfaces, and the absence of protruding antennas. In addition, the wings and fuselage of the J-50 are combined into one "flying platform", which further reduces the likelihood of radar signals being reflected. The fighter's engines are also designed to reduce the infrared signal, which is achieved through internal installation or the use of heat shields to reduce thermal radiation.

The nose of the J-50 has an unusually smooth surface, which may indicate the presence of an advanced active electronic scanning array (AESA) or a radar capable of operating in several ranges and providing stealth. Such a radar system is capable of detecting and tracking targets at long range, even in electronic warfare conditions. In addition, the J-50 is likely to be equipped with optoelectronic sensors with a 360-degree all-round view, which is extremely important for modern air combat.

The tailless layout of the J-50 is one of its key features. This design helps to increase aerodynamic efficiency, reduce drag and, therefore, possibly increase flight range and supersonic cruising capability. However, this approach may worsen maneuverability somewhat, but the developers seem willing to sacrifice this for the sake of stealth and other combat characteristics. Along with the J-50, images of the J-36 tailless fighter jet developed by Chengdu Aircraft Industrial Group were also released. These two aircraft demonstrated China's accelerated development in the field of stealth and aviation technology.

The appearance of the J-50 marks significant progress by China in developing the sixth generation of fighter jets. It not only demonstrated China's achievements in stealth technology, advanced aviation systems, and artificial intelligence integration, but also showed that China has the ability to develop advanced platforms capable of competing with American sixth-generation fighter designs. With each new detail revealed, the potential of the J-50 becomes more and more obvious, and its role in the future Chinese military strategy raises more and more expectations.

China paves the way for space dominance with more than 100 satellites under control

 

China continues to strengthen its position in the space sector, taking control of more than 100 huge satellites. This significant step paves the way for China's dominance in space and challenges the long-standing leadership of the United States. China's ambitious successes in space exploration are rapidly changing the global power dynamics in this area.

Chinese space achievements in recent years have been impressive. From pioneering orbital refueling to the development of stealth technology, China is making rapid progress. These successes also include aspirations to explore the Moon and Mars, which highlights the country's ambitions in the space race.

Control of more than 100 satellites allows China to significantly expand its capabilities in space. This includes improved navigation systems, enhanced communications and intelligence, and the development of new technologies. This dominance in space gives China a strategic advantage and allows it to influence global power dynamics.

For a long time, the United States has been a leader in the space sector, but China's successes pose a serious challenge to this dominance. Chinese space programs are developing rapidly, and this is causing concern in Washington. The United States is forced to rethink its strategies and increase investments in space technology in order to maintain its leadership.

China is actively developing programs to explore the moon and Mars. Successful missions such as Chang'e-4 to the Moon and the planned mission to Mars demonstrate the country's technological capabilities. These aspirations underscore China's ambitions to become a leading space power and play a key role in future space missions.

The development of stealth technology is another important achievement of China. These technologies allow satellites and spacecraft to remain invisible to radars and other detection systems, which significantly increases their survival and efficiency in space.

China continues to rapidly develop its space programs, taking control of more than 100 satellites and demonstrating ambitious successes in space exploration. These achievements challenge the long-standing dominance of the United States and change the global dynamics of power in space. In the face of increasing competition, China is striving to become a leading space power, influencing the future of space research and technology.