Inder Bisht

1 week ago | thedefensepost.com | Inder Bisht

The US State Department has approved the potential sale of 70 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) to Italy. The approval follows a request from the Italian government for the purchase of 30 AIM-120D-3 and 40 AIM-120C-8 AMRAAMs and related equipment and services for an estimated $211 million. “The proposed sale will improve Italy’s capability to meet current and future threats by ensuring Italy has modern, capable air-to-air munitions,” the Defense Security Cooperation Agency wrote.

1 week ago | thedefensepost.com | Inder Bisht

Boeing has completed Increment 3 Block 2 modifications on the first P-8A Poseidon aircraft, enhancing the platform’s intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare capabilities. The modified aircraft is expected to be delivered to the US Navy this month, with two more reportedly at an advanced stage of the upgrade process. A total of six modified aircraft are expected to be ready by the end of this year, with initial operational capability by next April.

1 week ago | thedefensepost.com | Inder Bisht

The German Air Force plans to acquire three more Heron TP medium altitude long endurance drones from Israel. A proposal of 25 million euros ($29 million) for the procurement is being prepared for parliamentary approval, according to Hartpunkt. This procurement will expand the German Air Force’s Heron fleet to eight, including five operational leased aircraft. The leased drones will reportedly be purchased in the long-term — an option available in the original contract between the two countries.

1 week ago | thedefensepost.com | Inder Bisht

Navantia has been contracted to produce a combat supply ship for the Spanish Navy. The Spanish Council of Ministers has approved an amount of 703 million euros ($814 million) for the project. Called the BAC (Buque de Aprovisionamento) II, the vessel will replace the 30-year-old A-14 Patiño by 2030, and partner the service’s other logistical support vessel, the A-15 Cantabria. The Spanish Navy also has a fleet tanker for supply operations.

1 week ago | thedefensepost.com | Inder Bisht

The US Army has contracted American Rheinmetall to supply M1 Abrams main battle tank tracks. The $107.5-million, 5-year contract finalizes an order the company received for T-158 military tracks in August 2024, which allowed for the commencement of production. This expedited timing underlines the US Army’s urgent need to maintain readiness amid evolving global challenges.