FirstSpear TV

Archive for the ‘International’ Category

« Older Entries

HENSOLDT and Schwarz Digits Form Strategic Partnership for Data-Driven Defence Capabilities

Tuesday, February 17th, 2026

Joint solution expertise for sovereign sensor cloud infrastructures, networked sensor technology and multi-domain operations

Neckarsulm/Munich (Germany), 16 February 2026 – System House HENSOLDT and Schwarz Digits are entering into a strategic partnership to jointly advance the expansion of software-defined defence and sovereign, data-driven capabilities for the networked operational environment. The aim of the collaboration is to provide fully integrated, sovereign and cloud-enabled solutions for Germany and other nations allied with Germany.

Holistic protection: from VS-Secret to quantum resistance

The partnership responds to the urgent need for independent cloud technology for the defence sector. STACKIT, Schwarz Digits’ cloud provider, delivers an end-to-end infrastructure for this purpose. Beyond the infrastructure, Schwarz Digits brings specialised security capabilities to the partnership.  Highly secure communication stacks will enable data exchange up to the VS-Secret classification level. To counter future threats, Schwarz Digits relies on quantum-resistant encryption methods and comprehensive cyber security solutions. This integrated approach provides seamless protection for the integrity of data streams against digital access.

Modular multi-domain operations software suite

HENSOLDT contributes its entire defence technology portfolio. This includes, in particular, MDOcore (Multi-Domain Operations Core) – an open, modular and cloud-enabled software suite that acts as a universal translator for different, distributed data sources with the ability to perform AI-supported data fusion and integrate capabilities across multiple military domains. In addition, HENSOLDT is contributing its product range of radar, optronics, electromagnetic signal intelligence and active and passive sensor systems. This is complemented by distributed data management and interoperability solutions. Further contributions include simulation and synthetic environments for generating data for training, artificial intelligence training, and software testing and validation. In addition, HENSOLDT’s comprehensive expertise in the integration of mission systems across land, air, sea, cyber, space and cross-domain operations complements the service portfolio.

Oliver Dörre, CEO of HENSOLDT, says: “The security challenges of our time call for sovereign, powerful and networked solutions that Europe can provide from its own technological strength. The partnership with Schwarz Digits combines leading defence electronics with sovereign digital infrastructure. This enables us to create the conditions for the holistic implementation of software-defined defence and to provide armed forces with highly effective and expandable capabilities for the networked theatre of operations.”

Christian Müller, Co-CEO of Schwarz Digits, says: “With Schwarz Digits, we are laying the digital foundation for a new era. In doing so, we are proving that digital sovereignty offers the necessary speed and security to operate critical systems in a future-proof manner.”

Sven Heursch, Chief Digital Officer at HENSOLDT, says: “Software-defined defence requires sovereign data spaces, powerful sensor technology and end-to-end, secure processing from the operational environment to the cloud. At Schwarz Digits, we share the understanding that technological sovereignty and operational effectiveness are inextricably linked. Together, we are laying the foundation for data-driven, resilient defence solutions that meet the requirements of modern multi-domain operations.”

The plan for 2026 is to translate this preliminary work into concrete prototypes and joint offerings. Among other things, there are plans for a joint prototype that combines the sovereign capabilities of Schwarz Digits with sensor technology, integration software and simulation-based data generation from HENSOLDT. In addition, the infrastructure of Schwarz Digits is to be integrated into a sensor solution from HENSOLDT. The presentation of this solution is planned for the International Aerospace Exhibition (ILA) in Berlin in June 2026.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Rheinmetall Framework Agreement with NATO Procurement Agency for 120mm Tank Ammunition – Initial Order Worth Around €200 Million

Monday, February 16th, 2026

Rheinmetall is further expanding its role as a leading manufacturer of 120mm tank ammunition. The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has called off its first batch of ammunition, worth around €200 million, under a 2025 framework agreement for 120mm ammunition, a contract of substantial scope and value. The end customers are various NATO countries.

The ‘Basic Contractual Instrument’ (BCI) signed with NSPA in July 2025 defines the terms and conditions as well as all technical specifications for various types of 120mm tank ammunition. NATO and NATO-equivalent members can use the framework agreement to simplify the procurement of Rheinmetall ammunition. They can order the ammunition directly from the NSPA. This significantly simplifies the procurement of 120mm tank ammunition within the Atlantic Alliance. Rheinmetall can thus further expand its role as a leading supplier of 120 mm tank ammunition.

Used in the field by many nations since 1980, Rheinmetall’s 120mm smoothbore technology has become the established main battle tank armament within the armed forces of Germany, NATO and other allied nations worldwide. It is the standard system on the Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams main battle tanks. Due to their superior performance and still available power reserves, Rheinmetall can continue to offer innovative and threat-appropriate technical solutions in the caliber 120mm in the medium term.

Posted in Ammo, Contracts, International, NSPA, Press Release | No Comments »

Mehler Systems Among Germany’s TOP 100 Innovators

Saturday, February 14th, 2026

FULDA, GERMANY (11.02.2026)

Mehler Systems has been awarded the prestigious TOP 100 seal for 2026, placing the company among the most innovative medium-sized enterprises in Germany. The TOP 100 innovation competition is the only one of its kind to assess the innovation capability of mid-sized companies on the basis of a scientifically grounded analysis, with a particular focus on innovation management, forward-looking strategy and sustainable competitiveness.

“We are very proud to be among the TOP 100 innovators in Germany. This award recognises the performance of our entire team as well as our ambition to anticipate market developments years in advance as a first mover,” says Dr. Mario Amschlinger, CEO of Mehler Systems. “The TOP 100 seal validates our path and is also an incentive to consistently pursue our innovation agenda. Our goal is to remain a reliable, forwardthinking partner for customers, suppliers and stakeholders along the entire value chain.”

The award as one of the TOP 100 innovators highlights Mehler Systems’ innovation strategy and its clear commitment to operational excellence. Innovations are developed in close dialogue with end users and development partners, with a focus on solutions that enhance protection, operational capability and resilience under real-world conditions.

Key developments across the Mehler Systems Group range from advanced personal and platform protection solutions to next-generation load-bearing and tactical clothing systems.

Mehler Protection advances personal and platform protection through solutions developed for real operational demands. Selected examples include ExoM, a new exoskeleton concept for efficient load distribution with integrated protection; ultra-light combat helmets for military users; face protection systems certified to VPAM 6 (international ballistic testing guideline); and short-range active counter-drone systems.

At Lindnerhof, product development is shaped by a functionality-first, operator-led mindset. Solutions such as the Shikari Series and modular load-bearing platforms prioritise intuitive handling, rapid adaptability and reliability in demanding environments. Lindnerhof’s patented Hakenschnalle quick-release system enables fast donning, doffing and emergency release, allowing equipment to be adapted or removed within seconds as operational conditions change.

UF PRO translates long-term research and close cooperation with end users into tactical clothing built for unrestricted movement and sustained comfort under load. Proprietary solutions such as air/pac® improve ventilation and reduce shoulder pressure, Hood/Harness® keeps the hood aligned with head movement and preserves field of view, and Waist/Flex provides adaptive lumbar support and a stable fit during dynamic movement. The Hybrid Design concept strategically combines different materials within one garment to deliver high comfort and long-term durability.

Innovation also extends to manufacturing. Rethought production concepts and highly automated lines increase efficiency, quality and reproducibility, underlining Mehler Systems’ ambition to set technological benchmarks in modern protection and equipment systems.

Mehler Systems’ innovation activities are supported by a structured and established innovation management framework. Open communication, cross-functional collaboration and targeted internal training ensure that expertise is retained within the company and continuously developed. The innovation strategy is defined in close coordination with specialist departments to integrate different perspectives and align projects with customer requirements.

“Innovation starts with a clear objective: our long-term ambition is to become the world’s leading player in our market,” Amschlinger emphasises. “For us, innovation means developing solutions that deliver real protection and genuine reliability. Our products are based on concrete operational requirements, combined with the continual optimisation of our production and operational processes.”

For more than 25 years, the TOP 100 seal has recognised companies with outstanding innovative strength, long-term profitability and forward-looking business practices. The winners are selected through a rigorous, scientifically grounded assessment. Project partners include the Fraunhofer Society and the BVMW, with manager magazin as media partner.

Posted in Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

HENSOLDT and Helsing Join Forces for CA-1 Europa Autonomous Combat Aircraft

Friday, February 13th, 2026

Partnership initially for AI-supported air combat systems

Munich (Germany), 12 February 2026 – System house HENSOLDT and Helsing, two leading European defence technology companies, have agreed on a strategic partnership. The aim of the collaboration is to jointly advance modern defence technologies within a sovereign German and European technology architecture in order to make a substantial contribution to securing Western democracies in times of massive geopolitical shifts.

The first joint product of the two companies will be collaboration on Helsing’s AI-supported autonomous combat aircraft CA-1 Europa, which will sustainably strengthen the defence capabilities and technological leadership of a democratic Europe through purely national technology and supply chains.

The CA-1 Europa is to be equipped with powerful sensor technology from HENSOLDT in the future. The plan is to integrate technologies and sensors from the fields of radar, optronics, self-protection, and electromagnetic warfare. In addition, the HENSOLDT software suite MDOcore (Multi-Domain Operations Core) provides the digital backbone for multidimensional data fusion, networking, and coordination. In conjunction with Helsing’s AI agent Centaur, the combat drone will thus be able to carry out missions autonomously, process information securely, and make it available across dimensions.

The cooperation takes into account the changed security policy reality. Modern military systems must automatically collect, process, and make information usable in a very short time. The combination of powerful sensor technology and AI-based software is considered a decisive factor in making systems more adaptable and efficient. At the same time, both partners attach great importance to technological sovereignty and the development of European solutions.

HENSOLDT has many years of experience in the development and integration of state-of-the-art AI-supported sensor solutions and data fusion for military applications in the air, on the ground, at sea, in space, and in cyberspace. In addition to the autonomous combat aircraft, Helsing is contributing artificial intelligence to the project that is capable of autonomously controlling the combat aircraft itself in a network and independently processing large amounts of data for this purpose. The collaboration is clearly organized according to a division of labor: each company is responsible for its technologies and contributions within its own area of expertise.

Helsing and HENSOLDT are already working together with the Norwegian Kongsberg Group in the space sector to establish a sovereign satellite constellation for reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition (IST) with a fully networked communication layer for Europe by 2029.

The two companies intend to prepare their first joint demonstrations in the coming months. The focus will be on close coordination with customers and partners in order to test new technologies in a practical setting and gradually transfer them into operational systems.

Oliver Dörre, CEO of HENSOLDT: “The future of modern defence systems lies in the intelligent and networked interaction of sensor technology and artificial intelligence. We share a common goal with Helsing: to responsibly develop innovative technologies and thus contribute to Europe’s security policy capabilities.”

Dr. Gundbert Scherf, co-founder and co-CEO of Helsing: “Our deterrence requires sovereign air superiority. With the CA-1, we are making a clear offer for credible European deterrence. The sovereignty and superiority of our armed forces depend on our systems being developed and produced by national industry champions. The partnership between Helsing and HENSOLDT is a joining of forces between two national champions. We are united by our commitment to massive investment in future technologies.”

Posted in Aviation, Industry, International, Press Release, UAS | Comments Off on HENSOLDT and Helsing Join Forces for CA-1 Europa Autonomous Combat Aircraft

2026 Canadian National Counter UAS Conference

Friday, February 13th, 2026

March 2nd and 3rd, 2026, please join the Kingston Police, Ottawa Police, and the Correctional Service of Canada for the 2026 Canadian National Counter Unmanned Aircraft System Conference at the Westin Ottawa, 11 Colonel By Drive, Ottawa ON. Conference topics include Organized Crime use of UAS for trafficking, Contraband into prisons, Narcotics and Firearms across national borders, Narcotics and Firearms within cities, protecting major events and mass gatherings from UAS attacks and miss-use, VIP protection, Protecting public infrastructure from drone attacks (power plants/lines, public safety & government buildings), weaponized UAS use in terrorist and national security related attacks, update on UAS use in Ukraine and future domestic trends, and A panel discussion on needed legislative changes to support enforcement and investigations. Please use links in attached flyers to register or go to Reservation-Link for hotel reservation and 2026 National Counter UAS Conference Tickets, Mon, Mar 2, 2026 at 8:00 AM | Eventbrite to register for the event.

Event registration is $335.00 CAD, and lodging is available for $229.00 CAD per night at the Westin.

Posted in C-UAS, Guest Post, International, LE | 1 Comment »

DroneShield Appoints Michael Powell as COO to Support Global Expansion and Operational Scale

Wednesday, February 11th, 2026

10 February 2026 – DroneShield (ASX:DRO), a global leader in counter-UAS technology, today announced the appointment of Michael Powell as Chief Operating Officer, reinforcing the company’s operational leadership as it enters its next phase of global growth.

The appointment follows a period of accelerated expansion for DroneShield, including increased activity across Europe and the United States, rising demand from defense, government, and critical-infrastructure customers, and a major expansion of manufacturing capacity at the company’s Alexandria, New South Wales facility. The expanded site significantly increases production throughput, shortens delivery timelines, and strengthens supply-chain resilience, positioning DroneShield to support long-term programs of record and sustained global demand.

Michael brings more than 25 years of senior executive and operational leadership experience across defense, aerospace, secure communications, simulation, railway and critical infrastructure markets. His career includes senior roles such as Chief Operating Officer, Managing Director, and Operations Director at leading international organizations including Thales Australia and Knorr-Bremse, where he led large, multinational teams and managed complex, multi-hundred-million-dollar operational portfolios.

Image: Michael Powell, Chief Operating Officer, DroneShield

Across these roles, Michael has built and scaled global manufacturing and supply-chain operations, led international business turnarounds, and delivered large-scale operational transformation programs, balancing execution discipline with the demands of high-reliability, mission-critical customers.

As Chief Operating Officer, Michael will be responsible for scaling DroneShield’s global operations, strengthening delivery and sustainment capability, and aligning engineering, manufacturing, and supply-chain functions to support the company’s expanding product portfolio and growing international customer base. His appointment reflects DroneShield’s focus on operational excellence as counter-UAS capability becomes embedded within national security, public safety, and critical-infrastructure protection frameworks worldwide.

“Michael is a proven operator with deep experience delivering complex programs at global scale,” said Oleg Vornik, Chief Executive of DroneShield. “As demand for counter-UAS capability continues to accelerate, his leadership will be instrumental in ensuring DroneShield scales with discipline, resilience, and a relentless focus on customer outcomes.”

Michael has lived and worked across Australia, Asia-Pacific, United States, Europe, and the Middle East. He holds a Master of Business Administration, a Bachelor of Engineering and is a Chartered Professional Engineer, and is a Fellow of the Institute of Engineers.

Posted in C-UAS, Industry, International, Press Release | No Comments »

Estonia, Latvia, and Belgium Take Delivery of BLAZE Interceptor Drones from Origin Robotics

Monday, February 9th, 2026

Three NATO nations’ armed forces are the first European military to field autonomous interceptor drones amid rising airspace threats.

RIGA, Latvia (February 6, 2026) – Only months after the initial procurement announcements, Riga-based defence technology company Origin Robotics has begun delivering its BLAZE interceptor system to the armed forces of Latvia, Belgium, and Estonia. This handover makes these three countries the first in Europe to field a domestically produced, fully autonomous, warhead-equipped drone interception system. The rapid delivery underscores how agile defence companies like Origin are helping governments respond more quickly to evolving airspace threats.

Across Europe, NATO countries have reported a growing number of unauthorized drone flights near borders, military sites, and critical infrastructure, reflecting the wider spread of low-cost unmanned systems linked to regional security tensions. These incidents have accelerated efforts such as the “drone wall,” a coordinated initiative to strengthen surveillance and counter-UAS capabilities along NATO’s eastern flank, as governments seek faster and more autonomous ways to protect their airspace.

Latvia was the first to announce its order for Origin’s interceptor systems in early October, followed by the Belgium Ministry of Defence, which publicly announced a €50 million allocation for counter-drone systems in November, with Estonia ordering shortly thereafter. As of January 2026, all three nations have begun receiving the first batches of the BLAZE system, with deliveries continuing in several batches over the coming weeks.

The BLAZE system, entirely developed and manufactured by Origin in Latvia, is an autonomous drone interceptor designed to neutralize hostile UAV threats with speed and precision. Designed for NATO interoperability and built for real-world use, BLAZE is the first NATO-codified autonomous interceptor drone equipped with a STANAG-compliant warhead module and available for immediate deployment.

Latvia’s Autonomous Systems Competence Center (ASCC) will be responsible for evaluating the system and determining how the newly acquired capabilities should be integrated into the National Armed Forces. Comparable national evaluation and integration processes are underway in Belgium and Estonia.

Major Modris Kairišs, Head of the Latvian Autonomous Systems Competence Centre: “The rapid deployment of systems like Origin Robotics’ BLAZE is essential to strengthening national air defence. At the same time, hands-on use at scale allows us to build a precise, real-world understanding of their capabilities, limitations, and tactical applications. This ensures new technologies are not only fielded quickly, but also integrated effectively into the armed forces.”

Agris Kipurs, co-founder and CEO of Origin Robotics: “The Baltic states have acted with urgency and foresight in strengthening their aerial defence posture amidst growing threats, and Belgium has shown the same determination. These deliveries prove that rapid procurement cycles are possible when governments work with agile, technology-driven defence companies like Origin. That speed matters when drone technology evolves faster than traditional procurement timelines.”

Unlike traditional defence procurement cycles that can stretch into years, the BLAZE deliveries come within months of contract announcements. The systems are operational and ready for immediate integration, and the delivery will take place over the next weeks in several batches.

Further details of the order, including quantities and operational roles, remain confidential. Additional deliveries to several other European NATO nations are already underway and will be announced in due course. Together, these deployments reflect growing institutional adoption of Origin’s technology across multiple NATO and partner countries.

origin-robotics.com/blaze

Posted in Drone, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Estonia, Latvia, and Belgium Take Delivery of BLAZE Interceptor Drones from Origin Robotics

Allen-Vanguard Breaks into South America with a Multi-Million Dollar Order for Their EQUINOX NG and SCORPION 2 ECM systems

Friday, February 6th, 2026

Allen-Vanguard, the global leader in providing customised solutions and enabling technology across the Cyber and Electromagnetic Activities (CEMA) domain, has recently received multi-million dollar orders for EQUINOX NG (their vehicle-based Electronic Countermeasure (ECM) system) and SCORPION 2 (their manportable ECM system). Due to the sensitivity of the purchasing nation’s operations, it is not possible to disclose specific customer details. However, this initial multi-million dollar order is a major capability uplift for the end user, will deliver enhanced protection to their personnel operating in high-risk Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Device (RCIED) environments and help mitigate the threat posed by the increasing use of drones to deliver lethal effects.

Allen-Vanguard has over 20 years of expertise in providing customised ECM solutions for defeating Radio Frequency (RF) based terrorist and extremist threats. These threats include the continued global use of RCIEDs to target security forces and the increasing prevalence of drones or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAV) being used for intelligence, surveillance, target acquisition and reconnaissance (ISTAR) or lethal means. Defence Forces, Public Safety & Security agencies around the world trust Allen-Vanguard’s capability solutions, because they are easy to use, robust, reliable and have been operationally proven on the battlefield and in the most challenging of peace-keeping missions protecting those who protect us.

Based on the current threat profile, the customer has purchased EQUINOX NG, a highly sophisticated vehicle-based ECM system. Its agile and flexible technical architecture has been developed around the leading global standards for Electronic Warfare (EW) hardware, ensuring compliance and easy integration with major programs for an enduring and ‘ever-greening’ capability. Coupled to a highly flexible and scalable physical format, allows it to be easily configured for a wide range of scenarios from armoured vehicle fits for operational theatres, VIP convoy protection or static vulnerable fixed site locations. The system can be configured with relative ease to address both the RCIED and drone threats alike. SCORPION 2, has all the same technical heritage and similar capabilities as EQUINOX, but has been specifically designed to be portable using a backpack for patrol-based operations. Clearly, it can also be fitted to vehicles or used at static locations, offering maximum flexibility.

The contract comes with a full support package, including training for users, technicians and mission fill development. This support includes the deployment of Field Service Representatives to ensure the development of indigenous ECM capability and reach back to the Threat Management Team.

This team of RF experts optimise algorithms specific to the end user’s needs to combat evolving threats specific to their region of operations. This comprehensive wrap-around support maximises the protection offered by the ECM systems, both from a physical capability perspective but also from the essential changes to tactics, techniques and procedures necessary to keep operators safe.

Bobby Strawbridge, President Allen-Vanguard, said: “This is an important milestone in Allen-Vanguard’s history, breaking into the South American market. We are operationally proven with NATO countries globally and have been trusted by peace-keeping forces in the MENA region for many years. Our systems are not only market leading in relation to their technology and capability but our support packages also ensure purchasing nations improve their wider ECM capability and remain updated with the latest algorithms and software to maintain their protection.”

Posted in CEMA, Contracts, EW, International, Press Release | No Comments »

« Older Entries