Leonardo DRS Awarded Contract to Integrate Critical C4I Capabilities into New Royal Thailand Army Stryker Vehicles

20 Februari 2025

Leonardo DRS will deliver its Mounted Family of Computer Systems (MFoCS) II battle management system to the Royal Thai Army (photo: Leonardo DRS)

ARLINGTON, Va.–Leonardo DRS, Inc. (NASDAQ: DRS) announced today that it was awarded a contract to provide and integrate the latest Battle Management Systems (BMS) C4I hardware and software into new Royal Thailand Army combat vehicles. The total value of the award is more than $7 million. The contract was awarded by the U.S. Army through the U.S. Government Grant Assistance program.

Under the contract Leonardo DRS will provide its ruggedized C4I Battle Management System (BMS) hardware and is the lead integrator for the technology. The work includes integrating BMS software, cyber protection, network integration, training, and sustainment capability for newly acquired Stryker vehicles in the Royal Thailand Army. Leonardo DRS will be supported by a local Thai defense company, Chaiseri Defense, for the installation, training, and in-country support for this program.

The Royal Thai Army has procured M1126 Stryker RTA ICV 8x8 wheeled armored vehicles into service with the 112th Infantry Regiment, 11th Infantry Division since 2019 as the first export customer with approximately 130 units (photos: RTA)

“Today’s complex threat environment requires allied forces be equipped with the most modern capabilities,” said Bill Guyan, senior vice president and general manager of the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit. “Together with our teammate, Chaiseri Defense, we are proud to support our Royal Thailand Army allies by delivering proven capability and deep integration experience to ensure warfighters have the right tools for success on the battlefield.”

The solution being provided by Leonardo DRS is the company’s international version of its Mounted Family of Computer Systems program used by the U.S. Army. The BMS provides command and control enabling the acceleration of tactical operations. It also provides situational awareness for friendly forces, aids with combat identification, and enables more rapid recovery of injured soldiers in adverse conditions and environments.

Network computing and integration is a key strategic focus for DRS as it continues to be the leading provider of advanced C4/C5 technologies with the U.S. military and allied militaries around the world. The combat-proven, ruggedized systems enable increased data and communications needed for targeting, situational awareness and Battle Management Systems in multi-domain battlefield operations. The company is investing in the future of C5 through the development of the next-generation of tactical computing systems, AI processing solutions and advanced C5ISR/EW Modular Open Suite of Standards/ Sensor Open System Architecture aligned mounted systems – all aimed at enabling future network and platform processing to improve sensor fusion, situational awareness, and reduce the cognitive burden for commanders and crews.

(Leonardo DRS)

Republikorp (RDI) & Milanion Forge Strategic Agreement to Enhance TNI AL’s Unmanned Capabilities

19 Februari 2025

Five 20-meter USVs will be supplied to the TNI AL (photo: Republikorp)

Abu Dhabi, UAE  – Republikorp (under its subsidiary company, Republik Defens Indonesia) has signed a significant agreement with Milanion Group at IDEX 2025, held at ADNEC, Abu Dhabi, to supply the Indonesian Navy with advanced unmanned surface vessels (USVs). This partnership marks a major step in enhancing Indonesia’s maritime defense capabilities by integrating Milanion’s cutting-edge Autonomous Conversion Kit into locally designed and built vessels. 

Under the agreement, Republikorp and Milanion will collaborate to deliver an initial fleet of five 20-meter USVs, working closely with an Indonesian shipyard responsible for designing, constructing, and supplying the vessels according to the Navy’s specific requirements. The sophisticated conversion kit will be seamlessly integrated into the boats, ensuring enhanced operational efficiency and autonomous functionality.

Unmanned Surface Vessel illustration (images: Republikorp)

The contract was signed by Norman Joesoef, Chairman of Republikorp, and Davinder Dogra, CEO of Milanion Group, at IDEX 2025, where both companies are showcasing their latest innovations in defense and security technology.

This agreement underscores their commitment to strengthening national defense capabilities by integrating world-class technologies with local expertise. By working together, Republikorp and Milanion aim to develop high-mobility, mission-ready solutions that address Indonesia’s unique operational needs. Beyond the initial contract, Republikorp and Milanion have pledged to expand their cooperation further, exploring new opportunities to develop advanced defense solutions across Indonesia’s maritime, land, and air domains. This strategic alliance is expected to bolster Indonesia’s position as a leader in next-generation autonomous defense technologies.

As part of this collaboration, Republikorp will ensure the seamless implementation of these cutting-edge solutions while fostering the growth of the local defense industry. By leveraging global expertise and domestic innovation, the company aims to reinforce Indonesia’s defense capabilities and readiness for evolving security challenges.

(RepubliKorp)

New Zealand Fires Penguin Missile for the First Time

19 Februari 2025

Penguin missile firing from RNZN Seasprite helicopter (photos vss: RNZN)

Bruiser Loose. Bruiser is the NATO name for an air launched anti-ship missile. Last week, the first launch by an RNZN Seasprite helicopter of a Penguin anti-ship guided missile was conducted.

The Penguin, which replaced the Maverick air-to-ground missile, is propelled at high subsonic speed by a solid rocket engine which has an operational range of 34+km. This provides our Navy with a critical standoff, over the horizon, strike capability for the Naval Combat Force.

The missile, which carries a 120kg warhead, is designed to skim the sea and penetrate targets at their waterline. The warhead has a delay fuse which detonates inside the target.

Following the successful firing, the Seasprite returned to HMNZS Te Kaha where it is embarked for Te Kaha’s deployment to the Arabian Sea in support of CTF150.

The helicopter’s primary role on this mission is forward-reaching identification and surveillance of suspicious vessels based on intel from CTF HQ in Bahrain. 

The helIcopter will then provide force protection for Te Kaha’s boarding crews who are searching for illicit cargoes of narcotics and weapons being shipped by terrorist and criminal organisations.

(RNZN)

Australia Makes First Payment on Virginia-class Submarines

19 Februari 2025

Australia will receive two Virginia-class Block IV submarines currently in service with the US Navy and the third submarine is a new Block VII unit planned for delivery in 2038 (photo: US Navy)

TSAMTO -- US Defence Minister Pete Hegseth said Australia had made the first payment of $500 million out of a total of $3 billion for the acquisition of the first fourth-generation Virginia-class nuclear submarine.

He made the announcement during a meeting with his Australian counterpart Richard Marles at the Pentagon on February 7. According to Reuters, this was the main topic of the meeting, which emphasized the idea of ​​strengthening defense cooperation between the two allies.

Australia made this payment as part of the AUKUS (Australia-UK-USA) alliance, which was established on 15 September 2021. The project will be implemented in three stages.

In the first phase, Australia will commission up to five submarines (the Virginia class) over the next decade, including two options. The Virginia class will allow Australia to fill a capability gap in the Navy following the planned retirement of its six Collins class diesel-electric submarines.

At the next (second) stage, the project envisages the construction of submarines with new-generation nuclear power plants using US and UK technologies. The submarines being developed within the framework of the SSN-AUKUS project will not carry nuclear weapons, although they will be equipped with nuclear power plants.

At this stage, Australia and the UK will build new submarines at the Barrow-in-Furness shipyard in north-east England (Cumbria), owned by the British company BAE Systems Submarines.

Over the next decade, industrial facilities will be established in southern Australia to continue the project locally (stage three).

See full article TSAMTO

Pangkoopsudnas Buka Latihan Hanud Perkasa B/2025 di Magetan

19 Februari 2025

Latihan Hanud Perkasa B yang berlangsung hingga 22 Februari tersebut diikuti 910 personel prajurit TNI AU, AD dan AL dengan melibatkan sejumlah pesawat tempur F-16 Fighting Falcon, T-50i Golden Eagle, Super Tucano, pesawat angkut Hercules, Cassa, helikopter, KRI RE Martadinata dan Sultan Hasanuddin untuk meningkatkan kapabilitas tempur, kesiapan operasional serta kemampuan interoperabilitas ketiga matra TNI (photos: Antara)

Magetan (ANTARA) - Panglima Komando Operasi Udara Nasional (Pangkoopsudnas) Marsdya TNI Tedi Rizalihadi membuka Latihan "Hanud Perkasa B Tahun Anggaran 2025" di Lanud Iswahjudi (IWJ) Magetan, Jawa Timur, Senin.

Dalam sambutannya, Pangkoopsudnas menyampaikan bahwa penyelenggaraan Latihan Perkasa B tahun anggaran 2025 ini penting dilaksanakan mengingat sebelumnya sudah dua tahun tidak ada.

"Karenanya, latihan Hanud ini memiliki peran yang sangat penting sebagai bagian dari komitmen kita untuk terus meningkatkan kesiapsiagaan dan profesionalisme dalam menjaga kedaulatan udara Negara Kesatuan Republik Indonesia," ujarnya saat membuka Latihan Hanud Perkasa B/2025 di Lanud Iswahjudi Magetan.

Menurutnya, latihan tersebut bertujuan untuk meningkatkan kemampuan personel dan unsur-unsur pertahanan udara dalam melaksanakan operasi pertahanan udara secara terpadu dan terintegrasi.

Selain itu, latihan itu juga untuk menguji kesiapan operasional dan interoperabilitas unsur-unsur pertahanan udara, termasuk radar, pesawat tempur, artileri pertahanan udara, serta sistem komando dan kendali.

Tujuan lain, latihan itu juga untuk memastikan efektivitas sistem koordinasi dan komunikasi antara berbagai unsur yang terlibat dalam operasi pertahanan udara, baik dari unsur TNI AD, TNI AL, maupun TNI AU.

"Serta menguji kemampuan deteksi dini dan respons cepat terhadap ancaman udara yang dapat mengganggu stabilitas keamanan nasional," katanya.

Adapun, Latihan Hanud Perkasa B tahun 2025 tersebut berlangsung mulai Senin (17/2) hingga Jumat (22/2) yang diikuti 910 personel prajurit TNI AU, AD dan AL.

Latihan tersebut juga melibatkan sejumlah pesawat tempur dan alutsista lain, di antaranya F-16 Fighting Falcon, T-50i Golden Eagle, Super Tucano, pesawat angkut Hercules, Cassa, helikopter, serta KRI RE Martadinata dan Sultan Hasanuddin untuk meningkatkan kapabilitas tempur, kesiapan operasional, serta kemampuan interoperabilitas ketiga matra TNI.

(Antara)

Pacific Steller 2025: US, France, and Japan Conducts Joint Naval Exercise in Philippine Sea

18 Februari 2025

Pacific Steller 2025 exercise between US, France, and Japan (photos: Dvids)

Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group sails in formation with French Carrier Strike Group and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force during Pacific Steller 2025

PHILIPPINE SEA -- Aircraft from the Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group (VINCSG) and French Carrier Strike Group (CSG) fly in formation over the Philippine Sea with ships from VINCSG, French CSG, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), and U.S. Military Sealift Command (MSC) during Pacific Steller 2025, Feb. 12. 

From left, an F/A-18F Super Hornet, F-35C Lightning II, E-2D Advanced Hawkeye, and two French Navy Rafale Marine (F4) fighter jets. The ships from VINCSG include the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Carl Vinson (CVN 70), Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Princeton (CG 59), and Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Sterett (DDG 104) and USS William P. Lawrence (DDG 110). 

The ships from French CSG include the aircraft carrier FS Charles De Gaulle (R 91) and its escort of air-defense destroyers and multi-mission frigates. (The French CSG, consisting of carrier FS Charles De Gaulle (R91), destroyer FS Forbin (D620), frigates FS Provence (D652) and FS Alsace (D656), fleet oiler FS Jacques Chevallier (A725) and a nuclear-powered attack submarine).*

The ships from JMSDF include the Izumo-class multi-functional destroyer JS Kaga (DDH 184) and Akizuki-class destroyer JS Akizuki (DD 115). The ships from MSC include the Henry J. Kaiser-class fleet replenishment oiler USNS Tippecanoe (T-AO 199) and Lewis and Clark-class dry cargo and ammunition ship USNS Charles Drew (T-AKE 10). 

USS Carl Vinson CVN 70, FS Charles De Gaulle R-91, and JS Kaga DDH-184 (photo: Polder Naval)

VINCSG is underway conducting Pacific Steller 2025, a multi-large deck event with French CSG and JMSDF, fostering our alliance and maritime security in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific. 

(DVIDS)

8 Heli Penerbad Latihan Menyerang Sasaran Darat di Cipatat

18 Februari 2025

Latihan Penembakan Senjata Pesawat Udara TNI AD tahun 2025 (all photos: TNI AD)

BANDUNG, tniad.mil.id – Kepala Staf Angkatan Darat (Kasad) Jenderal TNI Maruli Simanjuntak, M.Sc. menyaksikan delapan unit helikopter Pusat Penerbangan Angkatan Darat (Puspenerbad) menyerang sasaran tembak, kala meninjau kegiatan Latihan Penembakan Senjata Pesawat Udara (Latbakjatpesud) terintegrasi, yang digelar di Daerah Latihan Pusat Pendidikan Infanteri (Rahlat Pusdikif), Cipatat, Jawa Barat, Selasa (5/3/2024).

Helikopter Penerbad Apache AH 64E (photo: Penerbad)

Dalam peninjauannya tersebut, Kasad menyaksikan langsung berbagai aktivitas latihan yang melibatkan personel dan alutsista udara milik Puspenerbad yang terdiri dari dua unit Helikopter Apache AH 64E, tiga unit Helikopter Fennec AS 550 C3, dua unit Helikopter Bell 412, dan satu unit Helikopter MI 17 V5.

Latbakjatpesud sendiri dirancang untuk meningkatkan kesiapan operasional satuan Puspenerbad dalam menghadapi tantangan pertempuran modern. Selain itu, juga ditujukan untuk menguji kemampuan bantuan tembakan bagi pasukan darat, koordinasi antar komponen pasukan, serta respon terhadap situasi yang mungkin terjadi di lapangan.

Helikopter Penerbad Mi-17V5 (photo: Penerbad)

Dalam kesempatan tersebut, Kasad menyampaikan pentingnya menggelar latihan rutin, terutama guna meningkatkan keterampilan dan kesiapan tempur, serta memastikan semua personel benar-benar siap menghadapi tugas-tugasnya secara profesional, serta menguasai alutsista yang diawakinya.

“Kemampuan helikopter kita juga sangat luar biasa. Kita akan selenggarakan latihan ini secara berkala sehingga kemampuan anggota kita akan terus terpelihara, bahkan terus meningkat,” ujar Kasad.

Helikopter Penerbad Bell 412 (photo: Penerbad)

Menurut Kasad pula, melalui kegiatan latihan semacam ini, TNI AD akan semakin siap untuk melaksanakan tugas pertempuran. Kegiatan ini juga menjadi bukti komitmen TNI AD untuk terus meningkatkan kesiapan tempur dan mengikuti perkembangan teknologi, serta taktik militer terbaru, guna menjaga kedaulatan dan keamanan negara.

Helikopter Penerbad Fennec AS 550 C3 (photo: Fahmioedin)

Usai meninjau pelaksanaan Latbakjatpesud Puspenerbad, Kasad yang didampingi sejumlah pejabat utama TNI AD, menyerahkan bantuan sosial kepada masyarakat yang tinggal di sekitar daerah latihan, serta melaksanakan penanaman bibit pohon tanaman buah di Pusdikif Pussenif.

(TNI AD)