Russia just proved satellite stalking is operational, not theoretical
Top story
Germany drops Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat rapid procurement plan, 2029 fielding now in doubt. Germany has abandoned plans to fast-track acquisition of Boeing’s MQ-28 Ghost Bat combat drone, according to The War Zone. The Luftwaffe had explored a rapid buy of the Australian-developed unmanned combat aerial vehicle as a manned-unmanned teaming partner for Eurofighter and future sixth-generation fighters. A broader competition for Germany’s loyal wingman requirement is now likely to extend into the next decade. Why it matters: Berlin’s hesitation reflects Europe’s perennial tension between operational urgency and sovereign industrial preferences — delaying fielding to keep the door open for a homegrown alternative. (Single source) The War Zone →
The rundown
MUNITIONS — Norway expects to take delivery of South Korean K239 Chunmoo multiple rocket launchers in 2028 and achieve initial operating capability in 2029, acting Chief of the Norwegian Army Trond Nilsen told Breaking Defense. Norway ordered the systems — which fire 239 mm guided rockets to 80 km and ATACMS-class ballistic missiles to 290 km — under a government-to-government deal in 2025. Nilsen also said the Finnmark Brigade, Norway’s northernmost maneuver formation, will be fully operational by 2032-2033. (Single source) Breaking Defense →
NAVAL — Russia’s maritime presence in the Mediterranean has declined significantly, a NATO official told Breaking Defense, likely reflecting the diversion of naval forces to support Black Sea and Arctic operations. One analyst cautioned that the reduced posture may be temporary. Russian naval activity in the eastern Mediterranean peaked in the mid-2010s with sustained deployments supporting operations in Syria. (Single source) Breaking Defense →
NAVAL — USS Ronald Reagan remotely controlled an MQ-25A Stingray unmanned tanker test aircraft more than 2,100 miles away while sailing in the Pacific Ocean, the U.S. Navy announced. The test validated hardware and software in the carrier-based MD-5C Ground Control Station, marking progress toward integrating autonomous aerial refueling into carrier operations. MQ-25 is expected to enter service in the late 2020s. (Corroborated) The Aviationist → · Defence Industry Europe →
NAVAL — Australia’s Department of Defence unveiled modular payloads for Anduril’s Ghost Shark extra-large unmanned underwater vehicle, including aerial drone deployment, mine-laying and seabed resupply missions. The payloads will also integrate with C2 Robotics’ Speartooth UUV and Ocius’s Bluebottle unmanned surface vessel. Images released by the ministry show Ghost Shark’s payload bay for the first time. (Corroborated) Breaking Defense → · The War Zone →
DRONES — French drone manufacturer Sol.One formed a joint venture with Indian firm DGVK Enterprises to build Sol.One’s full range of drones in India, according to Milmag and sUAS News. The partnership, named DG Sol.One, aims to serve both domestic Indian requirements and export markets. Sol.One produces small tactical drones for reconnaissance and loitering munition roles. (Single source) Milmag → · sUAS News →
By the numbers
6 events in this issue · 2/6 corroborated · 3/6 European · busiest beat: drones
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