R&D - currentdefencenews.com

February 26, 2026
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Unmanned Systems

Quantum Systems Launches MANDRILL UGV

German technology company Quantum Systems introduced its new MANDRILL unmanned ground vehicle during Enforce Tac 2026, showcasing a versatile robotic platform designed for multi-domain military operations. The UGV supports...

February 25, 2026
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Air Platforms

US Army to Upgrade Black Hawks for 2050+

The US Army is exploring a commercially driven midlife overhaul for its UH-60M Black Hawk fleet to keep the helicopters operational beyond 2050. Under a proposed plan, industry would...

February 24, 2026
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Missile & Missile Defence

Taiwan Plans 9 More Advanced SAM Systems

Taiwan’s planned acquisition of nine additional NASAMS air defense systems represents a major expansion of its layered air defense network. The systems will provide enhanced coverage of key radar...

February 24, 2026
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Cybersecurity

Leonardo Trainees Join UK Cyber Exercise

Leonardo has successfully completed its first international deployment at the Defence Cyber Marvel, a major multinational cybersecurity exercise led by the UK Ministry of Defence. The company’s team of...

February 24, 2026
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Unmanned Systems

Russia Adds Shahed Modems to Molniya UAVs

Russia has reportedly begun installing mesh networking modems on its tactical drones to improve communication resilience and operational coordination. These systems link multiple unmanned platforms into a unified data-sharing...

February 24, 2026
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Naval Platforms

Kongsberg to Modernize Skjold-Class Fleet

Norway has awarded Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace a contract worth approximately 400 million Norwegian krone to modernize the combat systems aboard the Royal Norwegian Navy’s Skjold-class fast attack vessels....

February 24, 2026
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Unmanned Systems

MQ-9B Gains Long-Range Naval Strike Role

General Atomics is adapting its MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian drones to carry long-range precision strike weapons such as JASSM and LRASM missiles. This capability will enable extended-range strike, maritime...

February 23, 2026
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Unmanned Systems

New Navy Chief Role for Autonomous Forces

To strengthen unmanned warfare capabilities, the US Navy is preparing to appoint a central authority for robotic systems. This role would coordinate autonomous platforms across multiple domains, improving mission...

February 23, 2026
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Naval Platforms

Enhanced Sonar Boosts Underwater Detection

Kongsberg has significantly upgraded its underwater surveillance technology to provide sharper and more reliable sensing of submerged targets. The improved platform supports maritime security, infrastructure monitoring, and naval intelligence...

February 23, 2026
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Naval Platforms

New Facility to Build Submarine Components

Israel has opened a new defense manufacturing plant focused on submarine structures, improving technological independence and naval production capacity. The facility enhances supply chain security, supports international programs, and...