If you are already a subscriber, login to your account.
Americas
After years of testing and refinement, the US Air Force’s microvane program is nearing full implementation across it’s C-17 fleet. These small, strategically placed devices are set to reduce aerodynamic drag and increase fuel efficiency by redirecting airflow around the aircraft’s fuselage, proving that even the most mature aircraft designs can be enhanced. Air Force Operational Energy and Air Mobility Command are now in the final stages of evaluating the microvane technology. The microvanes themselves are deceptively simple: small, 3D-printed devices, measuring approximately 4 x 16 inches, and shaped like a thin blade. These are attached to the rear of the C-17’s fuselage using strong adhesive bonding.
The Peruvian Navy has christened and launched two Pativilca-class offshore patrol vessels as part of its effort to strengthen national maritime operations. The BAP Río Huarmey (PM 210) and BAP Río Nepeña (PM 211) are two of 10 boats planned under the program for surveillance, anti-piracy, environment response protection, and search and rescue tasks.
Middle East & Africa
The US announced Saturday it would donate more than $117-million in security assistance for Lebanon’s armed forces, as the crisis-hit country seeks to implement a fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah. The State Department said in a statement that it had convened a “virtual donors meeting” on Thursday “with partners and allies to discuss critical security assistance needed for Lebanon to fully implement the cessation of hostilities.”
Europe
Lithuania plans to spend an annual five to six percent of its gross domestic product (GDP) on defense from 2026 to 2030, the Baltic NATO member’s president said Friday. Russia’s war in Ukraine has jolted NATO to strengthen its eastern flank and ramp up spending, and US President-elect Donald Trump has demanded alliance members increase defense expenditure to five percent of GDP. The transatlantic alliance’s current minimum level for defense spending is two percent, but some members already spend more.
Asia-Pacific
India’s Solar Group tested a kinetic counter drone swarm system earlier this week. The trial saw the Bhargavastra micro-missile system neutralize virtual targets over 2.5 kilometres (1.55 miles) away at an altitude of 400 meters (1,312 feet). Solar Group’s subsidiary Economic Explosive Ltd. has developed the cost-effective solution for the Indian Army.
Today’s Video
