NATO Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability project enters new phase with French participation
The NATO Support and Procurement Agency has launched a new phase of the Next Generation Rotorcraft Capability (NGRC) project, involving France, Italy, Germany, Greece, and the Netherlands. The initiative, begun in 2020, aims to prepare the replacement of current medium-lift helicopters such as the NH90 Caïman. The project is designed to define requirements and technologies for a next-generation rotorcraft entering service in the 2030s.
Why it matters: Five nations pooling rotorcraft R&D is rare; whether it yields a program or just another reference architecture will test whether Europe has learned from NH90's multinational lessons.
Ukrainian drone operators inflict 70% of US armored brigade casualties in first three days of German exercise
Ukrainian drone operators playing opposition forces in a US Army training exercise in Germany caused approximately 70% of an American armored brigade's casualties in the first three days, according to an account published in Military Review by the brigade's own commander and staff. The exercise demonstrated the lethality of small commercial drones against conventional armored units. Defence Blog reports the Ukrainian unit operated a mix of FPV and reconnaissance drones.
Why it matters: A Ukrainian OPFOR just gave the US Army the same lesson Russia learned in 2022 — heavy armor without counter-drone infrastructure is a target, not a force.
German firm Quantum Systems claims 483 mph speed record for battery-electric drone with Apex Recordhunter
Quantum Systems announced its Apex Recordhunter experimental battery-electric drone flew at 777 km/h (483 mph) in a record attempt, faster than any battery-powered drone previously flown and exceeding the speed of Russia's jet-powered Shahed attack drones. Martin Karkour, the company's chief revenue officer, announced the flight. The platform is distinct from Quantum's operational military drones.
Why it matters: Electric propulsion just matched the speed of jet drones without the logistics tail — if the range holds, interceptors got simpler and cheaper.
Jeumont Electric to supply three complete electric propulsion systems for Poland's A26 submarines under Orka programme
French firm Jeumont Electric will deliver three low-signature electric propulsion systems for the Polish Navy's A26 submarines under the Orka programme. The systems are designed to minimize acoustic and electromagnetic signatures.
France orders several hundred more MX-10 DAMOCLES kamikaze drones, Luxembourg signs first export deal worth €1.6 million
France has activated an optional tranche of its MX-10 DAMOCLES contract with KNDS France and Delair, ordering several hundred additional quadcopter loitering munitions. Luxembourg became the first export customer, signing a contract worth just over €1.6 million for an initial capability.