U.S. and Chilean forces forge ‘Kill Web’ in Joint Exercise

Exercise UNITAS LXV, the 65th iteration of the world’s longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise, took place along the Pacific coast of South America from Sept. 2nd to 12th. Hosted by Chile, the exercise challenged participating forces with unique terrain, pushing them to adapt and refine their skills in a new environment. The United States showcased its commitment to regional stability and security through a strong presence of Marine Corps and Navy assets, including F/A-18C Hornets from Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 (VMFA-112), a KC-130J Hercules from Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 234 (VMGR-234), and a U.S. Navy P-8 Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft from Patrol Squadron 5.

U.S. Marine F/A-18Cs with Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 112 (VMFA-112), 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, break away from a KC-130J belonging to Marine Aerial Refueler Transport Squadron 234 (VMGR-234), 4th Marine Aircraft Wing, to prepare for aerial refueling operations during Exercise UNITAS LXV over the Pacific Ocean off the coast of Chile, Sept. 5, 2024. UNITAS, which is Latin for “unity,” was conceived in 1959 and has taken place annually since it was first conducted in 1960. This year marks the 65th iteration of the world’s longest-running annual multinational maritime exercise. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by SSgt. Eric Kilpatrick)

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RTX bolsters defense capabilities with new missile contract and space sensor technology

RTX has announced significant advancements in its defence technology portfolio, focusing on enhanced naval defense and space-based missile warning systems. These developments highlight RTX’s commitment to providing cutting-edge defence solutions in response to evolving global threats.

An evolved sea sparrow missile (ESSM) launches from one of USS Gerald R. Ford’s (CVN 78) weapons sponsons during combat systems ship qualification trials (CSSQT), April 16, 2021. CSSQT is a Naval Sea Systems Command requirement to verify that ship personnel can operate and maintain their combat systems in a safe and effective manner. Ford is underway in the Atlantic Ocean conducting its final independent steaming event of post-delivery tests and trials. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Zachary Melvin)

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Italian Navy’s transition to the F-35B: A unique approach

On the overcast and humid flight deck of the Italian aircraft carrier ITS Cavour, during a port call at Changi Naval Base, Singapore, Captain Dario “ZAZA” Castelli, the Italian Navy’s Carrier Air Wing Commander, provided a comprehensive briefing on the Italian Navy’s transition from the AV-8B Harrier to the cutting-edge F-35B Lightning II.


Photo: Italian Navy

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Mage Island FCLP facility construction faces three-year delay

The Japanese Defense Ministry has announced that the completion of a new field carrier landing practice (FCLP) facility on Mage Island in Kagoshima Prefecture, southwestern Japan, will be delayed until March 2030, three years behind the initial schedule. The base, which began construction in January 2023, was originally slated for completion in 2027.


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