2026 - latestdefencenews.com

Leonardo enhances ground defense capabilities through $1.8B Iveco acquisition

Leonardo has finalized its €1.6-billion ($1.8-billion) acquisition of Iveco Group’s defense division, marking a significant expansion into land warfare systems. The deal incorporates Iveco Defence Vehicles and ASTRA into...

US Navy plans increased use of Hammerhead mines to counter submarine threats

The US Navy is looking to expand its stockpile of Hammerhead underwater mines under an ongoing contract with General Dynamics Mission Systems. The company was initially awarded a $92.9-million...

DroneShield integrates Robin Radar technology to enhance counter-drone capabilities

DroneShield has partnered with Robin Radar Systems to incorporate advanced 3D radar capabilities into its counter-drone architecture, enhancing detection across its sensor network. The integration improves the system’s ability...

Mitsubishi demonstrates AI-enabled UAV autonomy in Japan under Hivemind initiative

Shield AI and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are advancing drone autonomy by enabling unmanned systems to independently sense, adapt, and execute missions while tracking targets and collaborating with each other....

March 19, 2026
Admin
R&D
Air Platforms

US Navy overhauls procurement framework, establishing five portfolio offices

The US Navy has established five new portfolio acquisition executive (PAE) offices to streamline procurement processes, reduce bureaucracy, and accelerate the delivery of capabilities to operational forces. The newly...

Nigeria raises $200M to strengthen domestic defense production

Nigus International Investment Limited and UAE-based Elmirate Investment have signed a memorandum of understanding worth up to $200 million to establish defense manufacturing capabilities in Nigeria. The project will...

Element partners with Leonardo for advanced electromagnetic testing solutions for US Navy

Element US Space & Defense has teamed up with Leonardo DRS to support electromagnetic testing for the US Navy. The collaboration focuses on meeting evaluation requirements for systems under...

March 19, 2026
Admin
Mergers & JV
Air Platforms

Lockheed Martin secures industry tie-ups for Czech Republic’s F-35 initiative

Lockheed Martin has concluded a series of industrial cooperation agreements tied to the Czech Republic’s acquisition of F-35 Lightning II aircraft. The milestone includes 11 framework agreements that enable...

March 19, 2026
Admin
R&D
Air Platforms

NH90 explained: Europe’s next-generation multirole helicopter platform

From turbulent seas to remote forward bases, European military planners required a modern helicopter capable of transporting troops, carrying cargo, deploying special forces, conducting anti-submarine warfare, and supporting disaster...

March 18, 2026
Admin
R&D
Air Platforms

BAE set to enhance EW capabilities of USAF’s U-2 Dragon Lady reconnaissance aircraft

The US Air Force, through Robins Air Force Base, has awarded BAE Systems a contract to upgrade the electronic warfare suite of the U-2 “Dragon Lady” aircraft. Under the...