Trap of War

The Royal Australian Navy has expanded its arsenal of training tools by acquiring additional units of the AUV62-AT, an advanced autonomous underwater vehicle designed to simulate submarines and other underwater threats. This system plays a crucial role in anti-submarine warfare (ASW) exercises, allowing naval forces to conduct realistic training without the need for deploying actual submarines. By using AUV62-AT, the Navy significantly reduces operational costs and conserves valuable resources while maintaining high training standards. AUV62-AT. Photo: Saab The AUV62-AT is engineered to mimic the acoustic and movement profiles of submarines, torpedoes, and unmanned underwater vehicles. Its ability to replicate these threats with precision enables ASW teams to practice detection, tracking, and engagement in a controlled environment. This not only enhances readiness but also allows for repeated drills without the logistical complexity of involving manned submarines. One of the key advan...

The modernization of the F-35 Block 4 program has encountered significant delays, with the U.S. Department of Defense now projecting its completion no earlier than 2031. This marks a five-year setback from the original timeline, raising concerns about the program’s long-term viability and strategic implications. The delay reflects broader challenges in defense procurement and technological integration within complex weapons systems. F-35. Photo: af.mil In response to these challenges, the Block 4 program has undergone a major restructuring, resulting in the creation of several subprograms. These subprograms will feature a reduced number of capabilities compared to the initial plan, which originally included 66 distinct upgrades. The final acquisition planning document, expected in fall 2025, will determine which of these capabilities will be retained moving forward. The delay is further compounded by the dependency of certain advanced features on the upgraded F135 engine, which itself...

L3Harris Technologies has secured a pivotal contract from Austal USA to support the construction of the United States Navy’s next-generation ocean surveillance vessel, the T-AGOS-25 class. As the sole-source vendor for the ship’s electrical and propulsion systems, L3Harris will be responsible for integrating advanced technologies that ensure operational reliability and mission readiness. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the modernization of the Navy’s surveillance capabilities, particularly in the realm of anti-submarine warfare. T- AGOS -25. Photo: Austal USA The T-AGOS-25 class vessels are designed to detect and track submarines using sophisticated underwater acoustic data, employing both passive and active sonar systems. These ships play a critical role in gathering intelligence and maintaining situational awareness in contested maritime environments. Their ability to operate silently and efficiently makes them indispensable assets in the Navy’s strategic toolkit. ...

The United States military is preparing to test a cutting-edge laser defense system known as Laser Armor, developed by Thor Dynamics, during the upcoming DiDEX 25 field experiment. This system is specifically engineered to counter large-scale drone swarm threats, a growing concern in modern warfare scenarios. As unmanned aerial vehicles become more accessible and tactically versatile, the need for scalable and precise countermeasures has never been more urgent. Laser Armor. Photo: thordynamics.com Thor Dynamics has already garnered significant recognition from key defense institutions, including the U.S. Special Operations Command and the Army’s xTechOverwatch program. These endorsements reflect the system’s promising capabilities and its alignment with the strategic priorities of the U.S. military. The inclusion in such prestigious programs suggests that Laser Armor is not just a prototype, but a serious contender in the future of aerial threat mitigation. Laser Armor boasts a 5-kilo...

The Gabriel 5 missile system has officially entered operational service as the PTO2020 anti-ship missile of the Finnish Navy, marking a significant milestone in Finland’s maritime defense capabilities. This advanced missile system replaces the aging MTO 85M, also known as the Saab RBS15, which had been in service since the 1980s. The transition to Gabriel 5 reflects Finland’s commitment to modernizing its naval arsenal in response to evolving security challenges in the Baltic region. Mounted on the Hamina-class fast attack craft, the Gabriel 5 benefits from a platform that has undergone extensive modernization to accommodate next-generation weaponry and systems. These vessels, known for their agility and compact design, are now equipped to deliver precision strikes over long distances. The integration of Gabriel 5 into these ships enhances Finland’s ability to project power and defend its maritime interests with greater efficiency and accuracy. One of the standout features of the Gabr...

The David’s Sling air and missile defense system, developed by Israel, has recently completed a series of advanced live-fire tests aimed at enhancing its operational capabilities. These tests were designed to evaluate the system’s performance under realistic combat scenarios and to ensure its readiness against evolving threats. The successful completion of these trials marks a significant milestone in the system’s ongoing development and modernization. David’s Sling. Photo: rafael.co.il The testing phase focused on integrating upgraded components and validating their effectiveness in intercepting various types of aerial threats. By simulating complex attack patterns, the system demonstrated its ability to respond swiftly and accurately to incoming missiles and rockets. This achievement reinforces David’s Sling’s role as a critical layer in Israel’s multi-tiered defense architecture. David’s Sling is the result of a long-standing collaboration between the Israel Missile Defense Organi...

On August 27, 2025, the keel-laying ceremony for the USS Wisconsin (SSBN 827) was held at the General Dynamics Electric Boat facility in Rhode Island. This event marked a significant milestone in the construction of the second Columbia-class nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine, a vessel poised to play a pivotal role in the future of the United States Navy's strategic deterrence capabilities. The ceremony, steeped in naval tradition, symbolized the formal beginning of the submarine’s assembly and underscored the importance of the Columbia-class program to national security. Photo: U.S. Navy The USS Wisconsin is designed to replace the aging Ohio-class submarines, which have served as the backbone of the U.S. sea-based nuclear deterrent since the 1980s. As the second vessel in the Columbia class, it represents a leap forward in submarine technology, survivability, and operational endurance. Its construction is part of a broader modernization effort aimed at ensuring the ...

The Norwegian government has selected the British-made Type 26 frigate as the cornerstone of its future naval capabilities. This move signals a significant shift in Norway’s strategic posture, emphasizing long-term maritime security and deeper international collaboration. The choice reflects not only military priorities but also broader geopolitical considerations in an increasingly complex global landscape. HMS Glasgow. Photo: Ian Dick The selection of the Type 26 frigate was the result of a rigorous evaluation process involving four major contenders: France, Germany, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Ultimately, the British proposal was deemed the most compatible with Norway’s strategic needs, offering a balance of advanced technology, operational flexibility, and industrial cooperation. This decision underscores Norway’s commitment to aligning its defense infrastructure with partners who share its security vision and regional interests. Central to this acquisition is the e...

Charles Stark Draper Laboratories Inc. has secured a $68.4 million contract modification from the United States Department of Defense to continue its work on the guidance system for the Trident II (D5) missile. This contract underscores Draper’s longstanding role as a critical partner in the development and maintenance of strategic missile technologies for both the U.S. and its allies. The Trident II system remains a cornerstone of the U.S. Navy’s nuclear deterrence capabilities, and Draper’s expertise ensures its continued reliability and precision. Trident II. Photo: U.S. Navy Included in the scope of this contract is a Foreign Military Sales component to the United Kingdom, which operates the Trident II missiles aboard its Vanguard-class submarines. These submarines form the backbone of Britain’s nuclear deterrent, maintaining a continuous at-sea presence to ensure strategic stability. The collaboration between the U.S. and U.K. on Trident systems reflects decades of defense coopera...

Lockheed Martin recently conducted a groundbreaking test by mounting the Patriot M903 missile launcher onto the USS Montgomery (LCS 8), a littoral combat ship designed for agile operations in coastal waters. This initiative marks a significant step in evaluating expeditionary air defense capabilities for naval vessels operating in open seas. The test aims to address the growing threat of missile attacks in the Pacific region, where strategic deterrence is increasingly vital. Photo: Lockheed Martin The integration of the Patriot system onto a mobile naval platform reflects a shift in defense strategy, emphasizing flexibility and rapid deployment. Traditionally, the Patriot system has been land-based, but adapting it for maritime use allows the U.S. Navy to extend its missile defense umbrella far beyond fixed installations. This capability is especially relevant in contested zones where access to permanent bases may be limited or vulnerable. Prior to this test, the LCS platform had alre...

On August 28, the United States Navy officially accepted the delivery of the Landing Craft, Air Cushion (LCAC) 114 from Textron Systems, marking a significant milestone in its modernization efforts. This advanced vessel is part of the Navy’s next-generation Ship to Shore Connector (SSC) program, which aims to enhance the Navy’s amphibious capabilities. The acceptance follows a successful round of trials conducted by the Navy’s inspection team, confirming the craft’s readiness for operational deployment. LCAC. Photo: textronsystems.com LCAC 114 is engineered to transport heavy payloads ranging from 60 to 75 tons, including personnel, vehicles, equipment, and weapons systems. Its design allows it to travel directly from ship to shore, bypassing traditional port infrastructure and enabling rapid deployment in contested or remote environments. This capability is crucial for expeditionary missions, humanitarian assistance, and combat operations where speed and flexibility are paramount. De...

The IRON BEAM 450 represents a groundbreaking advancement in air defense technology, utilizing directed energy to neutralize aerial threats at the speed of light. This high-energy laser weapon system (HELWS) developed by Rafael offers a revolutionary alternative to conventional missile-based interception systems. Its ability to deliver rapid, precise, and cost-effective responses to incoming threats marks a significant shift in modern warfare strategy. IRON BEAM. Photo: rafael.co.il Unlike traditional missile interceptors that rely on explosive payloads and complex guidance systems, the IRON BEAM 450 uses concentrated laser beams to destroy targets mid-air. This method drastically reduces the cost per interception, making it a more sustainable solution for prolonged engagements. The system’s efficiency is further amplified by its minimal logistical footprint and reduced need for ammunition resupply. One of the most impressive features of the IRON BEAM 450 is its extended operational r...

L3Harris has launched a groundbreaking initiative called Counter-Unmanned Systems (C-UxS), aimed at addressing the growing threat posed by small, agile, and increasingly sophisticated drones. These unmanned systems are becoming more affordable and easier to produce, making them accessible to a wide range of actors, including hostile forces and non-state entities. As the battlefield evolves, the need for rapid, adaptive, and integrated countermeasures has become more urgent than ever. VAMPIRE. Photo: l3harris.com The proliferation of drone technology has been accelerated by advancements in 5G connectivity, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning (ML). These innovations have enabled drones to operate with greater autonomy, precision, and coordination, often rendering traditional defense systems too slow or ineffective. In response, defense companies must rethink their approach and develop solutions that can match the speed and complexity of modern threats. Central to the init...

Raytheon, a division of RTX, has successfully completed the first live maritime test of the AN/SPY-6(V)4 radar system in collaboration with the United States Navy. This milestone marks a significant advancement in naval radar technology, demonstrating the system’s ability to detect and track both aerial and surface targets under diverse environmental conditions. The test was conducted at the Pacific Missile Range Facility in Hawaii, a location known for its strategic importance and challenging maritime environment.  AN/SPY-6(V)4. Photo: rtx.com The AN/SPY-6(V)4 radar is part of the broader SPY-6 family, which represents the next generation of naval radar systems designed to enhance situational awareness and threat response capabilities. Unlike its predecessors, the (V)4 configuration is tailored specifically for integration into Flight IIA Arleigh Burke-class destroyers, which form a critical component of the U.S. Navy’s surface fleet. By equipping these vessels with advanced radar...

The U.S. Navy is taking significant steps to enhance the capabilities of its Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS), aiming to make it more effective in countering aerial threats such as drones and cruise missiles. This initiative reflects a growing need for cost-efficient and agile solutions in modern warfare, where traditional interceptors can be prohibitively expensive. By upgrading APKWS for air-to-air missions, the Navy is positioning itself to respond more flexibly to evolving threats in contested airspace. APKWS. Photo: Marine Corps by Cpl. Theodore W. Ritchie Central to this upgrade is the integration of a new software algorithm known as True Pulse Logic, developed by defense contractor BAE Systems. This algorithm improves the guidance system of APKWS, allowing it to more accurately track and engage fast-moving airborne targets. The software enhancement is expected to significantly boost the system’s hit probability while maintaining its affordability and ease of deploym...

The Eurodrone program, a collaborative effort among Germany, France, Spain, and Italy, officially entered the Critical Design Review (CDR) phase on August 25, 2025. This milestone marks a significant achievement in the development of a fully European unmanned aerial system, following the confirmation that the industrial design has reached maturity. The companies leading the project—Airbus, Leonardo, and Dassault Aviation—have worked in close coordination to ensure the design meets the complex demands of modern defense operations. Eurodrone. Photo: OCCAR The CDR phase is a crucial step in the lifecycle of any advanced aerospace system, as it validates whether the design satisfies all technical and operational requirements. In the case of Eurodrone, over 2,000 specific criteria have been laid out by the participating nations, encompassing everything from structural integrity to mission adaptability. Successfully passing this phase will pave the way for the construction of three prototype...

Swedish defense and security company Saab has entered into a new agreement with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to develop a cutting-edge autonomous underwater platform. The contract, valued at 60 million Swedish kronor, marks a significant step in Sweden’s efforts to enhance its maritime surveillance and underwater operational capabilities. The project centers around the creation of LUUV, or Large Uncrewed Undersea Vehicle, a next-generation autonomous submarine designed to operate without human intervention. LUUV. Photo: Saab LUUV is envisioned as a large-scale, unmanned underwater vehicle that will serve primarily as a sensor platform. Its core mission is to support underwater reconnaissance, mapping of seabed infrastructure, and the detection of potential threats beneath the surface. Unlike traditional submarines, LUUV is not intended to carry weapons in its initial phase, emphasizing its role as a strategic decision-support tool rather than a combat asset. The d...

Japan has officially submitted its largest-ever defense budget request for the fiscal year 2026, totaling ¥8.8 trillion, or approximately $60.2 billion. This unprecedented move reflects the country’s growing concern over regional security threats, particularly from China, North Korea, and Russia. The proposed budget signals a significant shift in Japan’s defense posture, emphasizing deterrence, modernization, and strategic readiness. Photo: JMSDF/Japan MoD The increase in defense spending is part of Japan’s broader effort to enhance its military capabilities in response to escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. China’s assertive maritime activities, North Korea’s missile tests, and Russia’s unpredictable behavior have all contributed to Japan’s reassessment of its national security strategy. By allocating more resources to defense, Japan aims to bolster its ability to respond to emerging threats and maintain regional stability. One of the most ambitious components of the budg...

Saab has unveiled its latest innovation in battlefield defense technology: the Nimbrix missile, a low-cost solution specifically engineered to counter the growing threat of Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. As drone warfare becomes increasingly prevalent, particularly with the emergence of swarm tactics, the need for agile and affordable countermeasures has never been more urgent. Nimbrix represents a strategic leap forward in addressing this evolving challenge. Nimbrix. Photo: Saab Designed as a "fire-and-forget" missile, Nimbrix incorporates an active seeker that autonomously tracks and engages aerial targets without requiring further input from the operator after launch. This capability significantly reduces the cognitive load on battlefield personnel, allowing them to focus on broader tactical operations. The missile’s air-burst warhead is optimized to destroy drones mid-flight, including multiple targets in close proximity, making it especially eff...