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U.S. Army procures 600 Coyote 2C Interceptors

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In a move echoing the urgency exposed by the recent attack on U.S. forces in Jordan, the U.S. Army awarded a $75 million contract to RTX Corporation on Jan. 16 for the production of 600 Coyote 2C Interceptors. This swift action, leveraging the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s rapid acquisition authority and completed within 30 days, underscores the critical need to strengthen counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) capabilities following the tragic loss of three American soldiers on Jan. 28.

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Blue Spear anti-ship missile delivered to Estonia

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The Estonian Defense Forces welcomed the arrival of the Blue Spear mobile anti-ship missile system this week, marking a significant step in strengthening the country’s coastal defense capabilities. This advanced system, developed jointly by Israel and Singapore, delivers long-range precision strike capabilities against both sea and land targets within a 290-kilometer radius.

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First USMC F-35B squadron on East Coast achieves IOC

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The 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing (2nd MAW) has announced a significant milestone with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 542 (VMFA-542) achieving Initial Operational Capability (IOC) for the F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. This achievement marks a major step forward for the U.S. Marine Corps’ operational deployment of the F-35B on the East Coast, solidifying its role as a vital asset in expeditionary warfare.

A U.S. Marine Corps pilot with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 taxis an F-35B Lightning II jet at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, Dec. 28, 2023. VMFA-542 pilots conducted routine flight operations to maintain proficiency and achieve training objectives in support of 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing missions. The F-35B Lightning II is designed to meet an advanced threat while improving lethality, survivability, and supportability. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Staff Sgt. Daisha Ramirez)

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Hellenic Navy to take delivery of first three MH-60R helicopters

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The Hellenic Navy’s maritime muscle is set to receive a significant boost with the arrival of the versatile MH-60R helicopter. Testing of the first three aircraft, completed in December 2023, paves the way for their deployment to Greece aboard U.S. Navy transport planes later this year. Four additional helicopters will follow in 2025, finalizing the seven-aircraft purchase.


Photo: Lockheed Martin
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Poland takes flight with advanced early warning aerostats

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The vastness of Eastern European skies might soon be watched over by a new breed of guardians as the U.S. State Department approves a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Poland. This deal, estimated at a hefty $1.2 billion, involves Airspace and Surface Radar Reconnaissance (ASRR) aerostat systems equipped with Airborne Early Warning (AEW) Radars with Identification of Friend or Foe (IFF) capability from Raytheon Intelligence & Space. This acquisition promises a significant leap forward in Polish defense capabilities, US-Allied cooperation, and regional security dynamics.

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