Trend Micro uncovers sophisticated cyber threat to Taiwan’s defense sector

Research conducted by cybersecurity firm Trend Micro has uncovered a significant escalation in cyber operations targeting Taiwan’s military-industrial complex. The investigation has revealed a sophisticated threat actor, designated as TIDRONE, which has launched a comprehensive campaign against the island nation’s defense and satellite industries. Intelligence gathered by Trend Micro indicates that TIDRONE, suspected to have links to Chinese-speaking groups, has demonstrated a particular focus on manufacturers within Taiwan’s drone sector, raising alarms about potential compromises to sensitive military technologies.

Taipei sunrise panorama. This image was stiched in Hugin using panini general projection
Chensiyuan, edit by DXR, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Continue reading “Trend Micro uncovers sophisticated cyber threat to Taiwan’s defense sector”

Posted in UAV

Sweden paves way for potential Gripen transfer to Ukraine with $220 million parts package

In a significant development for Ukraine’s air defense capabilities, Sweden has unveiled a comprehensive military support package that includes substantial provisions for the potential future transfer of JAS 39 Gripen fighters. The Swedish government, recognizing the strategic importance of bolstering Ukraine’s aerial warfare capabilities, has allocated approximately $220.8 million for acquiring materiel parts specific to the JAS 39C/D variants of the Gripen multirole fighter aircraft.

Saab JAS-39C Gripen, Sweden - Air Force AN2279593
Oleg V. Belyakov – AirTeamImages, CC BY-SA 3.0 GFDL 1.2, via Wikimedia Commons
Continue reading “Sweden paves way for potential Gripen transfer to Ukraine with $220 million parts package”

U.S. State Department approves potential $133 million AIM-120C-8 sale to Singapore

The U.S. State Department has given the green light to a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of advanced AIM-120C-8 air-to-air missiles to Singapore, marking a significant development in defense cooperation between the two nations. The proposed deal, which includes 54 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) and related equipment, is valued at an estimated $133 million. This sale would bolster Singapore’s air defense capabilities and reinforce its strategic partnership with the United States.

A Singapore Royal Air Force F-15SG assigned to the 428th Squadron (RSAF), Singapore, completes aerial refueling from a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker assigned to the 101st Air Refueling Wing, Maine Air National Guard, during RED FLAG-Alaska 24-2 in Alaska, June 7, 2024. RED FLAG-Alaska offers unique opportunities to integrate various U.S. and allied forces into joint, coalition, and multilateral training from simulated forward operating bases. (U.S. Air Force photo by Master Sgt. Corban Lundborg)

Continue reading “U.S. State Department approves potential $133 million AIM-120C-8 sale to Singapore”

U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School undergoes major transformation for Great Power Competition era

The U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School (TPS) at Edwards Air Force Base, California, is implementing a comprehensive strategic plan to revolutionize its operations as it approaches its 80th anniversary. This transformation aims to better prepare Airmen and Guardians for the complex challenges of modern warfare in an era of Great Power Competition.


U.S. Air Force graphic

Continue reading “U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School undergoes major transformation for Great Power Competition era”

Teledyne FLIR Defense delivers Star SAFIRE 380-HLD to JMSDF’s SH-60L helicopters

Teledyne FLIR Defense has announced the delivery of its Star SAFIRE 380-HLD multi-spectral imaging systems to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The contract, valued at up to $20.8 million, will see the delivery of ten systems over the next three years.

JMSDF SH-60L(8502)
海上自衛隊, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Continue reading “Teledyne FLIR Defense delivers Star SAFIRE 380-HLD to JMSDF’s SH-60L helicopters”