2026 - defencenews.online

January 20, 2026
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R&D
Combat Service and Support Equipment

General Atomics, Barzan Join Forces on C2 Software

GA-ASI’s agreement with Qatar’s Barzan Holdings reflects a strategic shift toward software-driven defense capabilities. Rather than focusing solely on unmanned aircraft sales, the partnership targets battle management tools that...

January 20, 2026
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Procurement & Contracts
Unmanned Systems

VSR700 Naval Drone Enters Full-Rate Production

The French Navy’s decision to move the VSR700 into serial production marks a key milestone in integrating uncrewed rotary-wing systems into frontline naval operations. Under the new contract, Airbus...

January 20, 2026
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Procurement & Contracts
Air Platforms

Sri Lanka Receives 10 US Helicopters for Relief

The handover of 10 TH-57 Bell 206 helicopters marks another step in expanding practical defense cooperation between the United States and Sri Lanka. Delivered through the Excess Defense Articles...

STM Secures NATO-Linked Autonomous Systems Order

STM’s entry into the European market with its KARGU and ALPAGU loitering munitions represents a significant milestone for Turkish autonomous weapons exports. The contract emphasizes integration and software as...

Top German Aces Chosen for Air Combat Program

Germany’s selection of Top Aces for long-term aggressor and operational training services highlights the growing reliance on contractor-provided adversary air solutions. Valued at up to €420 million over 10...

January 20, 2026
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R&D
Weapons and Munition

India Studies New 7.62mm Anti-Drone Bullet

India’s move to develop a 7.62mm anti-drone round reflects the military’s search for simple, adaptable solutions to proliferating unmanned threats. Rather than relying solely on electronic warfare or dedicated...

January 20, 2026
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R&D
Missile & Missile Defence

Hyunmoo-5 Missile Moves to Frontline Units

The rollout of South Korea’s Hyunmoo-5 ballistic missile marks a significant enhancement of the country’s conventional strike and deterrence posture. Featuring one of the heaviest conventional warheads in its...

January 19, 2026
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R&D
Unmanned Systems

Shearwater AI Chosen by DARPA to Enhance Drone Flight Duration

The US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has chosen Shearwater Aerospace to provide AI-based software that enables unmanned aircraft to exploit wind currents and extend flight endurance. Selected...

January 19, 2026
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R&D
Air Platforms

After 46 Years, Denmark Retires F-16s and Fully Adopts F-35 Fighters

Denmark has officially retired its F-16 Fighting Falcon fleet after 46 years of service and is now completing its transition to the F-35A Lightning II. The fourth-generation fighters made...

January 19, 2026
Admin
R&D
Unmanned Systems

ULTRA Drone From Windracers Expands Range and Supports Heavier Loads

Windracers is preparing to enhance its ULTRA unmanned aircraft to carry payloads of up to 200 kilograms over ranges exceeding 2,000 kilometers, with the upgraded capability expected to enter...