Air Defense Archives

South Korea mulls F-16 training for Ukrainian pilots amidst North Korean troop deployments to Russia

Posted on October 23, 2024 by alert5

South Korea is contemplating a major shift in policy by providing lethal weapons to Ukraine, including the prospect of training Ukrainian pilots on F-16s, either in South Korea or by South Korean instructors. This potential move is a direct response to North Korea’s increasing military support for Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, a development that has raised considerable concern in Seoul.

A KF-16 Fighting Falcon from the 19th Fighter Wing taxis as another takes off of the runway at Jungwon Air Base, Republic of Korea, during Buddy Wing 15-6, July 10, 2015. In an effort to enhance U.S. and ROKAF air combat capability, Buddy Wing exercises are conducted multiple times throughout the year on the peninsula to sharpen interoperability between the allied forces so that if need be, they are always ready to fight as a combined force. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Nick Wilson/Released)

Team Pellonia’s airborne laser self-protection system proves impregnable in Swedish trials

Posted on October 21, 2024 by alert5

The British Ministry of Defense says a new airborne laser self-protection system has demonstrated its effectiveness by successfully neutralising 100% of targets during a live firing trial conducted in Sweden. This breakthrough signifies a major advancement in safeguarding RAF aircraft against missile threats. The laser system is intended for integration into a range of Royal Air Force (RAF) aircraft, including the Shadow R2 and the A400M transporter.

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Netherlands Strengthens Defence with NASAMS and NOMADS Acquisition

Posted on October 18, 2024October 17, 2024 by alert5

The Royal Netherlands Army is poised to significantly enhance its short-range air defence (SHORAD) capabilities with the acquisition of the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS) and the National Manoeuvre Air Defence System (NOMADS) from Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace. This acquisition, valued at approximately $1 billion, is expected to commence deliveries in 2028 as part of the comprehensive integrated air and missile defence program known as CITADEL.

Photo: KONGSBERG

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Germany achieves Full Operational Capability with Thales Ground Alerter 10 Radar Systems

Posted on October 17, 2024October 17, 2024 by alert5

The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) reached full operational capability with its new fleet of Thales-built Ground Alerter 10 (GA10) radars on Oct. 16, with the French defence contractor handing over the final system in a ceremony at Koblenz. Thales secured the initial contract from the German procurement agency, BAAINBw, in February 2021 for five systems, with options for additional units. These options were exercised, resulting in the final system being delivered on time and within budget.

Photo: Thales
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Boeing’s Compact Laser Weapon System downs larger drones for the first time

Posted on October 14, 2024October 14, 2024 by alert5

Boeing’s Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS) has engaged and neutralized Group 3 Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UASs) for the first time. This is a significant development in counter-drone technology as Group 3 UASs, which can weigh up to 1,320 pounds, present a greater threat due to their capacity to carry heavier and more sophisticated payloads. The successful demonstration took place at the Red Sands Integrated Experimentation Center in Saudi Arabia, where the CLWS, equipped with a 5-kilowatt laser, effectively neutralized the Group 3 drones.

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