German Navy fires Israeli LORA ballistic missile from operational vessel in dual test
The German Navy successfully completed a dual firing trial of Israel Aerospace Industries' Naval LORA ballistic missile, launching from an operational German vessel and hitting targets with precision in both scenarios. The trial was part of the German Navy's Marine 2035 Operational Experimentation (OPEX) program. The missile was launched from a configuration comprising a command trailer and launcher mounted on the vessel.
Why it matters: Germany testing a 400 km-range precision strike weapon signals interest in long-range maritime fires—capability the Bundesmarine currently lacks and NATO's Baltic flank needs.
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.
Elbit Systems wins $235 million European contract for PULS launchers and EXTRA-MR rockets
Elbit Systems has secured a contract worth approximately $235 million to supply PULS rocket artillery systems and EXTRA-MR precision-guided rockets to an unnamed European customer. The deal includes integrated logistics support. Neither the customer identity nor quantities were disclosed.
Why it matters: A European army is buying Israeli long-range strike quietly—likely a NATO member hedging on U.S. HIMARS delivery timelines or looking for shorter-notice procurement outside the Patriot queue.
Elbit SystemsIsrael EDR Magazine →Army Technology →Defence Industry Europe →
UK and Germany strengthen defence ties in London talks
UK and German officials held defence talks in London, the UK Ministry of Defence announced 16 October. No details on topics or outcomes were disclosed.