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Schiebel Camcopter S-100 Demonstrates Cross-Domain Logistics Capabilities During EDA’s Inaugural OPEX Campaign

Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025

Vienna, 22 July 2025: Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER® S-100 Unmanned Air System (UAS) successfully participated in the European Defence Agency’s (EDA) first-ever Operational Experimentation (OPEX) campaign, showcasing its autonomous cross-domain logistics capabilities in a complex, simulated operational environment.

Held over five weeks at the Italian Army’s Multifunctional Experimentation Centre (CEPOLISPE) and UTTAT (Ufficio Tecnico Territoriale Armamenti Terrestri di Nettuno), the campaign brought together six leading European defence companies to showcase the performance of Unmanned Air and Ground Systems (UAS and UGS) executing autonomous logistics missions across both the aerial and terrestrial domains. The event marked a significant step in fostering innovation and interoperability within the European defence landscape.

Schiebel’s CAMCOPTER® S-100 conducted multiple daily logistics missions using an underslung cargo net, successfully transporting suspended cargo of more than 50 kg under challenging battlefield conditions. The UAS consistently demonstrated its robustness, reliability, and mission effectiveness – even when exposed to degraded communications, adverse weather, and contested operational environments.

“We are proud to have contributed to this important initiative led by the European Defence Agency,” said Hans Georg Schiebel, Chairman of the Schiebel Group. “The S-100’s proven operational track record, combined with its autonomous logistics capability, underscores its value as a force multiplier in multi-domain operations.”

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Rampart Awarded $10M Contract to Supply Rheinmetall 76mm Bi-Spectral Obscurant Grenades to the Department of National Defence

Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025

Ottawa, ON – July 22nd, 2025 – Rampart Corp., Canada’s leading supplier of operational equipment to military and Law Enforcement end users, has been awarded a $10 million CAD contract by the Department of National Defence (DND) to supply 76mm Bi-Spectral Obscurant Grenades for use by the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF).

Manufactured by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH (RWM) in Germany, the advanced grenades are designed to create an obscurant screen that conceals armoured fighting vehicles (AFVs) from enemy detection systems. The screen is effective across multiple spectrums—including visual, thermal, and infrared—ensuring operational security and mobility in diverse combat environments and all-weather conditions.

“We are proud and excited to support the Canadian Armed Forces with the world’s most advanced land vehicle smoke protection systems from Rheinmetall,” said Mike Klein, President of Rampart. “Rampart’s partnership with Rheinmetall underscores our commitment to providing the CAF with best-in-class technology to enhance survivability and mission success.”

A RMWM representative added:

“Rheinmetall Waffe Munition would like to thank the Canadian Department of National Defence for their continued trust in the continuation of the decades-long partnership with Rheinmetall in service of the Canadian Armed Forces. This partnership is now being led in the very capable hands of our trusted partner and distributor RAMPART.”

This contract marks a significant milestone in Rampart’s growing defence portfolio and further strengthens Canada’s capability to equip its armed forces with NATO-compatible, combat-proven systems.

Learn more at www.rampartcorp.com

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NP Aerospace Launches Their Proven Through-Life Support Services Package into the Civilian Armoured Vehicles Market

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

NP Aerospace, the global vehicle integrator and armour manufacturer, has launched their proven through-life support services package into the Civilian Armoured Vehicles (CAVs) market. NP Aerospace currently supports over 18,000 vehicles across 30+ armoured, tactical, logistic and utility fleet types for a range of customers, globally, including the UK PMETS and CVSSP contracts. The know-how, practices and procedures developed to deliver this support are now being specifically shaped and offered into the global CAV marketplace, where it is estimated that there are over 100,000 vehicles in service across military, government, NGO and private security applications.

Support in this sector, to date, has been ad-hoc and decentralised. This fresh initiative will offer a one-stop-shop for fleet managers, no matter what vehicle types they may be operating.

In 2024, following the acquisition of certain assets of Jankel Armouring Limited, NP Aerospace inherited an established business stream in the specialist area of CAVs that includes both product (armoured vehicle designs, such as the Toyota Land Cruiser LC300) and support services, delivered to a range of globally deployed in-service CAV fleets – around 100+ vehicles across 8 customers. In the last 12 months, a number of former Jankel supply and support CAV contracts have been novated to NP Aerospace and the continued support to global customers has been a key requirement of that transition process. Now, 12 months on, NP Aerospace is launching the CAV support capability offering more widely, to ensure that the very best support services can be delivered to current customers but also to expand that proven service offering across the global fleets. Potential new CAV support clients range from ministries of defence to NGO’s, and individual vehicle fleets are widely spread in terms of deployed geography. NP Aerospace recognises the resultant challenges and has developed a robust service offering that can be trusted to deliver and includes the additional and significant capabilities and expertise developed through NP’s legacy activity in this operationally critical vehicle support services arena.

Specifically, NP’s CAV support services package is vehicle type agnostic and includes: handover and commissioning; operator and maintainer training; deployed support (Field Service Representation – FSR); spare parts; service and maintenance; post design services; refurbishment and mid-life improvements; and secure disposal/destruction. NP Aerospace has recently increased the team size of this department by 50%, attracting some key talent to specific roles, to enable the successful delivery of this service offering – reassuring their specialist CAV customers.

James Kempston, CEO of NP Aerospace, commented: “This is an exciting milestone as we expand our proven through-life support services into the civilian armoured vehicle (CAV) market. Drawing on our experience supporting over 18,000 military and security platforms worldwide, we are applying our expertise and trusted capabilities to civilian fleets, regardless of their operating environment. Importantly, this support isn’t limited to vehicles we manufacture – it can be delivered for any vehicle type, operated by any fleet manager, anywhere in the world.” He added: “At the same time, our LC300 armoured Toyota platform not only meets key requirements for compliance, protection, and safety – it’s also engineered with a strong focus on reliability and maintainability. By combining competitive pricing with extended service life through robust support, the LC300 delivers outstanding full-life value.”

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Ultra I&C Successfully Demonstrates Resilient Tactical Communications for European NATO Allies

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

WARSAW, Poland—July 22, 2025— Ultra I&C has successfully demonstrated its Orion radio and Archer™ troposcatter systems to European NATO allies in Poland, marking a critical advancement in secure, multi-

domain and mobile communications networks. The demonstration validates foundational data transport layer capabilities essential to modern warfare where the speed of battlefield information determines operational success.

Ultra I&C deployed Orion X500 and X650 radios and Archer troposcatter technologies across five dispersed locations throughout Poland, delivering high-throughput data transmission across multiple waveforms and frequency bands. The exercise underscored how quickly and easily Ultra I&C’s advanced communications solutions can be deployed and operated—even in denied, degraded, intermittent and limited (DDIL) environments where adversaries actively target communications infrastructure.

“This demonstration proves our systems deliver an integrated, tactical advantage now,” said Jon Rucker, CEO of Ultra I&C. “Our combined line-of-sight and beyond line-of-sight capabilities provide warfighters with high-capacity, long-range, resilient communications that securely deliver critical data in the toughest operational environments.”

Performance results Orion radios deployed on multiple platforms, including drones and vehicles, demonstrated exceptional operational flexibility and interoperability within a small form factor:

• 200×200 Mbps bidirectional throughput was achieved at distances exceeding 50 kilometers, with Band III and Band IV spectrum capability enabling mobile and dispersed C2 operations critical to force survivability.

• Orion’s frequency hopping capability demonstrated resilience against jamming in contested environments.

• The Orion X650 showcased Ultra I&C’s latest self-forming mobile ad hoc network (MANET) waveform, which employs advanced multiple-input, multiple-output (MIMO) techniques to maximize data transmission speed and spectral efficiency.

Ultra I&C’s next generation Archer troposcatter system achieved high throughputs over 133 kilometers while maintaining secure links independent of satellites or ground-based infrastructure, with rapid and tool-less setup in under 15 minutes.

The demonstration reinforces Ultra I&C’s role as a key enabler of military modernization efforts for joint forces, delivering foundational communications infrastructure that enables all other command and control capabilities in next-generation warfare.

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Australian and Japanese Soldiers Showcase Their Capabilities

Tuesday, July 22nd, 2025

One of the most crucial aspects of multi-national interoperability is a common understanding of the weapons, equipment and techniques of partner nations.

While the headquarters elements of the Amphibious Task Group 1 (ATG1) coordinated the upcoming activities during the transit from Cowley Beach to Bowen, the embarked Australian Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Forces (JGSDF) came together on the light vehicle deck of HMAS Canberra to showcase their different capabilities.

Soldiers, marines and officers shared weapons, techniques, capability and a few laughs, that culminated in a leopard-crawl race across the deck.

Providing insight into what an Australian standard infantry battalion (SIB) carries, Alpha Company, 1st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) were eager to showcase their weapon systems to their international counterparts.

JGSDF soldiers inspected the Australian Minimi Light Support Weapon, General Support Machine Gun MAG 58, MDFSW 84, M72A6 LDFSW 66, and the EF88 Austeyr with SL40s attachment.

1RAR’s Direct Fire Support Weapons platoon introduced their heavy-weapons capability, which included the anti-armour Carl Gustav 84-millimetre recoilless rifle, the GSMG Mag-58 and HMG 12.7-millimetre machine guns (also known as a 50-Calibre) capable of firing armour-piercing rounds.

Private Harrison Swan, 1RAR, observed that the Japanese also operated the 84-millimetre Carl Gustav.

“I think it’s interesting to see that we are using the same weapon systems, there’s a lot of similarities but a lot we can learn from each other,” he said.

1RAR’s mortar platoon explained the ranging controls of their weapons systems, complementing the battalion’s display of combat first aid kits, sniper rifles and other specialised gear.

‘I think it’s interesting to see that we are using the same weapon systems, there’s a lot of similarities but a lot we can learn from each other.’

Sappers from the embarked elements from 3rd Combat Engineer Regiment demonstrated their specialist breaching equipment, demolitions and high-risk search equipment.

These included a wide array of equipment that allows the combat engineers to support manoeuvre elements through the battle space.

Despite all the hardware, the unchallenged fan-favourite of the day was Charlie the Explosives Detection Dog, who enjoyed pats and games of tug-of-war with multinational members on the deck.

Overall, the morning was great success, since professional mastery and camaraderie both help to breach language barrier, as these highly capable units prepare for the upcoming amphibious raid in the Shoalwater Bay Training Area in the coming days.

Via Australian Army

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Belgian Aircrew Completes MQ-9B Training

Monday, July 21st, 2025

GA-ASI’s MQ-9B SkyGuardian® Training Was Conducted at Multiple Sites, Including Flight Test & Training Center and Desert Horizon

SAN DIEGO – 17 July 2025 – The first Belgian aircrew has completed training to operate the world’s leading remotely piloted aircraft (RPA): the MQ-9B SkyGuardian®. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI), designer and developer of the MQ-9B, provided the extensive aircrew training that culminated at GA-ASI’s Desert Horizon test facility in El Mirage, California, following stops in Belgium and GA-ASI’s Flight Test & Training Center in North Dakota.

“Providing all-encompassing training for the aircrews of our customers goes hand-in-hand with delivering the world’s most capable RPA,” said GA-ASI President David R. Alexander. “Completing this training ensures that Belgium is ready and able to operate their MQ-9Bs and maximize the benefits that come from long-range, high-endurance RPA.”

The scope of the training is focused on the foundational skills required to operate the MQ-9B SkyGuardian air vehicle and its equipment, including the Multi-Spectral Targeting System (MTS), Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), Mission Intelligence Station (MIS), and System for Tasking and Real-Time Exploitation (STARE). Training involves building solid foundations for both normal and emergency operations in Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) systems, instrument flying, and Automatic Takeoff and Landing Capability (ATLC) and more.

The first flight of Belgium’s initial MQ-9B aircraft took place in February. That aircraft will soon complete Acceptance Test Procedures and is expected to be in Belgium before the end of September. It’s the first of a four-aircraft purchase by the Belgian Ministry of Defence. The Foreign Military Sale to Belgium also includes two Certified Ground Control Stations.

MQ-9B is the world’s most advanced RPA system, delivering exceptionally long endurance and range — with ATLC under pole-to-pole SATCOM-only control — and will be able to operate in unsegregated airspace using the GA-ASI-developed Detect and Avoid system. MQ-9B includes the SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian® models, with multiple deliveries made to the U.K.’s Royal Air Force (Protector), as well as orders from Canada, Poland, Japan, Taiwan, India, and the U.S. Air Force in support of the Special Operations Command. MQ-9B has also supported various U.S. Navy exercises, including Northern Edge, Integrated Battle Problem, and Group Sail.

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Hanwha Names CEO for European and UK Defence Business

Monday, July 21st, 2025

Mr. Ben Hudson, CEO of Hanwha Defence Australia, has been appointed to lead Hanwha’s European and UK defence operations amid accelerating regional expansion.
Hanwha reinforces its commitment to localised, interoperable, and rapid capabilities for NATO and European allies.
Hanwha is dedicated to a multi-domestic strategy that strengthens sovereign defence capabilities in close partnership with European allies.

JULY 18, 2025: Hanwha Aerospace has named Mr. Ben Hudson as Chief Executive Officer (CEO) to spearhead the company’s defence operations in Europe and the UK.

Mr. Hudson, who currently serves as CEO of Hanwha Defense Australia (HDA), will also oversee Hanwha’s existing operations across the region while spearheading the company’s future growth opportunities in Europe and the UK.

“I am honoured to join our European and UK defence leadership team at such a pivotal moment for both our company and our European partners,” Mr. Hudson said. “Hanwha’s long-term vision starts at the very top of the company, with a drive to partner with our customers and create enduring sovereign capabilities that can deliver solutions to the defence and security challenges faced by nations now and into the future.”

Prior to joining Hanwha, Mr. Hudson held senior executive roles with BAE Systems, Rheinmetall and General Dynamics, including fifteen years working for these companies in Switzerland, Germany and the UK. He is a mechanical engineer with an MBA from London Business School, served as an Officer in the Australian Army, including operational service in East Timor, and holds both British and Australian citizenship.

Mr. Hudson’s appointment comes as Hanwha accelerates its strategic expansion in Europe, strengthening its position as a trusted defence partner capable of delivering localised, interoperable, and rapid capability solutions to NATO member states and European allies.

With programmes already underway in several countries, such as Poland, Romania, Norway, Finland and Estonia, Hanwha is deeply committed to building a strong industrial footprint across Europe—supporting local economies, transferring technologies, and investing in sustainable defence ecosystems.

“As Hanwha looks to further globalise our business, we are very pleased to appoint Ben—who brings deep experience across European defence markets—to this key role leading our business in Europe and the UK,” said Mr. Michael Coulter, President and CEO of Hanwha Global Defense, which oversees all global business campaigns.

“Europe represents a vital part of Hanwha’s long-term, multi-domestic strategy, where we seek not only to expand our footprint, but also to invest in sovereign capacity and industrial resilience in partnership with local stakeholders,” he said. “Hanwha is fully committed to working closely with our European partners for national priorities, and this appointment marks the beginning of the next phase of our journey—one grounded in trust, long-term collaboration, and shared security goals.”

Hanwha’s Footprints in Europe

Hanwha’s presence in Europe dates back over 40 years, beginning with the establishment of Hanwha Europe GmbH in Eschborn, near Frankfurt. Today, Hanwha continues to expand its regional footprint through major investments and partnerships in countries such as Poland, Romania, Norway, and the UK.

Over the past decade, Hanwha has delivered five 37,000-ton Tide Class Replenishment at Sea (RAS) ships—four to the United Kingdom and one to Norway—demonstrating the company’s naval shipbuilding capability and trusted delivery record.

In the land systems domain, Hanwha has secured contracts for the delivery of more than 800 K9 Self-Propelled Howitzers to multiple European countries, including Poland, Norway, Finland, Estonia, and Romania. As part of its strategic cooperation with Poland, Hanwha is also delivering 290 Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launch Systems to bolster the country’s long-range firepower.

In addition, Hanwha is a major supplier of artillery modular charges to NATO customers in Europe. The company has also established deep industrial partnerships across the continent to facilitate the export of European-manufactured components and technologies in support of Korean and international defence programmes.

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Cubic Awarded UK Integrated Live Training Area Weapons Effects System (ILT-A) Contract

Thursday, July 17th, 2025

Continuing to deliver vital support to the British Army

SAN DIEGO – July 16, 2025 – Cubic Defence UKannounces it has been awarded a two-year, sole-source contract by the UK Ministry of Defence (UK MOD) for the delivery of the Instrumented Live Training – Area Weapons Effects System (ILT-A).

“Cubic is honored to continue our long-standing partnership with the UK MOD,” said Alicia Combs, Vice President and General Manager at Cubic Defense. “This award reflects the trust placed in our systems to prepare warfighters for the complexities of modern combat. With ILT-A, we are proud to deliver a high-fidelity, globally interoperable solution that supports the British Army’s evolving training needs.”

ILT-A provides our soldiers with a realistic, data-rich training environment that enhances both competence and lethality,” said Simon Pearce, Synthetic Environments & Training, Defence Equipment and Support, UK Ministry of Defence. “The integration of Cubic’s Instrumented Metricized Live Fire capability and RPAS reflects the evolving character of combat and ensures the British Army can train with agility and precision.”

Photo by Cubic training team. (2024). Officer Cadet from the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst using Cubic Tactical Engagement Systems (TES) Equipment on Exercise Dynamic Victory.

The ILT-A contract builds on Cubic’s two-decade legacy of integrated training solutions for the UK MOD and supersedes the previous Area Weapons Effects Simulation (AWES) contract. The system combines advanced laser and area-effects technology with fully instrumented live-fire range systems and Remotely Piloted Air Systems (RPAS), creating a digitized environment featuring multi-spectrum, multi-domain threats. It also integrates with Cubic’s SCOPIC2 Virtual-in-Live synthetic environment to enable comprehensive force training and supports interoperability with partner nations. Data generated during training is used to inform the After Action Review process.

The contract includes options to support the UK MOD and global allies with individual and collective training across multiple domains and training areas, from Section to Brigade level. It also features a life-extension program through the end of the decade and investment in experimentation to support UK MOD’s Force Development initiatives.

To learn more about Cubic products and services, visit www.cubic.com.

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