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China’s Type 076 Amphibious Assault Carrier Outsizes France’s Aircraft Carrier to Conduct Attacks From Sea
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China’s Type 076 amphibious assault carrier measures 263 meters and is estimated at roughly 50,000 tons, placing it well above France’s Charles de Gaulle in both length and displacement. The platform signals China’s intent to build a larger, drone-enabled amphibious force aimed at rapid operations around Taiwan.

China’s unveiling of the Type 076 amphibious assault carrier has drawn attention across the naval defense community because its 263-meter hull and estimated 50,000-ton displacement now exceed the dimensions of France’s nuclear-powered Charles de Gaulle. According to early assessments from regional security analysts, the ship is structured less as a blue-water strike carrier and more as a high-capacity platform for drones, helicopters, and amphibious forces, designed for short-range power projection along China’s eastern coastline and in the Taiwan Strait.
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Visual comparison between China’s Type 076 amphibious assault carrier and France’s Charles de Gaulle nuclear aircraft carrier. The Type 076 measures 263 meters in length and displaces approximately 50,000 tons, while the Charles de Gaulle is slightly shorter at 261.5 meters and displaces around 43,000 tons. (Picture source: Zhao DaShuai X account)

On paper, France’s Charles de Gaulle retains clear supremacy in fixed-wing aviation, operating a CATOBAR (catapult-assisted takeoff but arrested recovery) system that launches Rafale M fighters for long-range strike, air superiority, and deep ISR missions. Its 40-aircraft complement includes advanced multirole jets and early-warning aircraft such as the E-2C Hawkeye, giving it full-spectrum combat air capabilities and unmatched blue-water reach. Nuclear propulsion allows for high-speed, sustained operations across distant theaters. This design remains ideal for France’s role in NATO operations and global expeditionary power projection.

The Type 076 is designed for a distinct operational vision: maximizing short-range, high-impact amphibious strike capabilities near the Chinese coast. Rather than pursuing air dominance, it orchestrates amphibious landings, deploys large numbers of drones, and supports ground operations from the sea. This reflects a PLAN doctrine tailored to the “first island chain,” prioritizing rapid, seizure-focused conflict measured in hours.

Regarding air assets, the Type 076 is expected to carry between 20 and 30 helicopters and UCAVs. These may include Z-8 and Z-20 transport and assault helicopters for airborne infantry insertions, and potentially Z-10 attack helicopters for close air support. More significantly, the ship is designed to operate a fleet of vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) unmanned combat aerial vehicles (UCAVs), including stealthy platforms such as the GJ-11 Sharp Sword. These drones will provide precision strike, electronic warfare, and ISR (intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance) coverage. This air component forms the backbone of the ship’s offensive capability from the sea.

This divergence in aviation strategy reveals a deeper doctrinal split. The Charles de Gaulle exists to dominate the airspace and sustain high-end fighter operations far from home waters. The Type 076, on the other hand, is designed to saturate localized battle spaces, such as the Taiwan Strait, with drones and rotorcraft in support of rapid joint landings. It sacrifices fixed-wing range and air superiority in favor of logistical tempo, drone endurance, and sensor saturation. These attributes are more applicable to high-density littoral conflict than to traditional carrier warfare.

Defense analysts from the Army Recognition team assess that the Type 076 introduces a new hybrid capability within the PLAN. It combines the roles of assault carrier, drone command hub, and amphibious flagship. This warship is not a conventional LHD in the traditional sense. The expanded flight deck, internal hangar space, and likely electromagnetic launch technology point to a platform designed to support persistent drone operations at high tempo. This could enable swarming attacks, ISR coverage, and coordinated sea-based battlefield strikes. If successfully integrated, this capability would provide China with a significant tactical advantage in shaping the battlefield before ground forces ever reach the shore.

Operationally, the vessel’s large well deck and internal storage capacity are configured to deploy air-cushioned landing craft (LCACs) and amphibious combat vehicles. This enables massed landings of mechanized infantry under the protective umbrella of drone-based air support. In a cross-strait scenario, this would allow Chinese forces to bypass traditional choke points and establish beachheads quickly and in volume. At the same time, UAVs could neutralize defensive infrastructure in real time, clearing paths for amphibious units.

While Charles de Gaulle symbolizes France’s nuclear-powered, blue-water naval reach, the Type 076 represents something fundamentally different. It is a regionally focused platform designed for rapid escalation in the Taiwan theater. Its length advantage and greater displacement are not symbolic. They directly support operational needs such as extended aviation fuel reserves, expanded drone bays, and enhanced command-and-control infrastructure.

The timing of the Type 076’s sea trials coincides with a marked uptick in PLA amphibious training near the Fujian coastline. Chinese naval activity in the East and South China Seas continues to escalate, and this vessel appears positioned to serve as a flagship for future large-scale amphibious task forces. Its introduction marks a significant evolution in the PLAN's force structure. It alters the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific and challenges long-standing U.S. and allied assumptions about China’s amphibious limitations.

The analysis concludes that the Type 076 marks a fundamental shift for the PLAN: it is not just a new ship, but a doctrinal pivot toward readiness for high-intensity, regional conflict. If built in numbers, the class could redefine amphibious operations with integrated drone, helicopter, and mechanized assault capabilities—directly impacting the Taiwan scenario and regional stability.

Written by Alain Servaes – Chief Editor, Army Recognition Group
Alain Servaes is a former infantry non-commissioned officer and the founder of Army Recognition. With over 20 years in defense journalism, he provides expert analysis on military equipment, NATO operations, and the global defense industry.
Exclusive Report: Top 10 Most Modern Attack Submarines in 2025 Ranked by Capability and Deployment
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The global defense landscape in 2025 is witnessing a rapid acceleration in undersea warfare capabilities as major powers invest heavily in the next generation of attack submarines. From nuclear-powered leviathans with hypersonic strike capacity to ultra-quiet diesel-electric boats armed with ballistic missiles, these platforms now serve as critical assets for strategic deterrence, sea control, intelligence gathering, and special operations. Driven by regional tensions, evolving naval doctrines, and industrial self-reliance, countries across Europe, Asia, and the Americas have launched highly advanced submarine programs that are redefining the balance of power beneath the waves. This exclusive Army Recognition report ranks the ten most advanced attack submarines in the world based on their operational status, technological features, and combat capability as of mid-2025.
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The world’s top 10 most advanced attack submarines in 2025, including the U.S. Virginia-class Block V, Russia’s Yasen-M, France’s Barracuda-class, China’s Type 095, and South Korea’s KSS-III Batch II, representing the cutting edge of underwater warfare and strategic deterrence across nuclear and conventional platforms.

1. Virginia-Class Block V – United States

The Virginia-class program began in the late 1990s as the U.S. Navy’s next-generation SSN to replace the aging Los Angeles-class. Block V construction began in 2019, with the final two submarines ordered in April 2025. The first Block V unit is expected to enter operational service in 2026, featuring the most significant redesign since the class’s inception.

Displacing over 10,200 tons submerged, Block V submarines introduce the Virginia Payload Module, an 84-foot hull section equipped with four large-diameter payload tubes, allowing up to 40 Tomahawk Block V missiles—more than triple the payload of previous blocks. The S9G nuclear reactor provides over 30 years of fuel life. The class features fiber-optic sonar arrays, photonic masts, acoustic dampening, and pump-jet propulsion for ultra-quiet movement at high speed. It is also fitted for unmanned undersea vehicle (UUV) deployment, seabed warfare, and special operations.

Unique edge: The highest strike missile capacity of any attack submarine, combined with multi-domain modularity, unmatched ISR systems, and long-term operational endurance, making it the most capable SSN in the world.

2. Yasen-M Class (Project 885M) – Russia

Development of the Yasen-M class resumed in the early 2000s after Cold War-era designs were shelved. The first modernized unit, Kazan, entered service in 2021, with Arkhangelsk added in January 2025. By mid-2025, five Yasen-M boats are in active service, with additional hulls under construction at Sevmash Shipyard.

The Yasen-M displaces 13,800 tons submerged and is powered by the OK-650V.02 nuclear reactor with a 30-year core life. The hull incorporates composite acoustic insulation and high-strength steel. Armed with 32 VLS cells, it can launch Kalibr land-attack missiles, Oniks supersonic anti-ship missiles, and Tsirkon hypersonic missiles—the latter in operational service since late 2023. The submarine also features 10 torpedo tubes and the MGK-600 sonar suite for long-range detection in blue-water or Arctic environments.

Unique edge: First submarine class with operational hypersonic strike capability and strategic deep-sea patrol range, giving Russia a versatile and heavily armed SSN optimized for high-end naval warfare.

3. Barracuda-Class (Suffren-Class) – France

The Barracuda program was initiated in the early 2000s to replace France’s Rubis-class SSNs. The first submarine, Suffren, was commissioned in 2022, followed by Duguay-Trouin in 2023. Four additional units are under construction, with full fleet delivery planned before 2030.

The class displaces around 5,300 tons submerged and is powered by the K15 pressurized-water reactor adapted from France’s strategic submarine fleet. It incorporates pump-jet propulsion, advanced automation, and a crew-reducing digital architecture. Armament includes MdCN cruise missiles (1,000+ km range), Exocet SM39 anti-ship missiles, and F21 torpedoes. The Thales S-CUBE sonar suite and SYCOBS combat system provide high-fidelity threat detection and weapon control.

Unique edge: The only European SSN equipped with strategic-range cruise missiles, pump-jet propulsion, and full-spectrum special operations capability, tailored for NATO and Indo-Pacific expeditionary roles.

4. Type 095 (Tang-Class) – China

The Type 095 program began in the early 2010s to replace the Type 093A. At least two hulls were launched between late 2023 and 2025 at Huludao Shipyard. Full operational capability is expected by late 2025 or early 2026.

The class is believed to displace over 7,000 tons submerged and is China’s first SSN to feature pump-jet propulsion, reflecting a major acoustic and propulsion leap. It includes a new bow-mounted spherical sonar array, flank arrays, and modern towed sonar, marking significant Chinese progress in passive detection.

The submarine integrates vertical launch systems capable of firing YJ-18 supersonic cruise missiles, with speculation about future land-attack variants. It is designed to escort China's Jin-class SSBNs and carrier strike groups and support long-range ISR and hunter-killer missions.

Unique edge: China’s first true multipurpose SSN with low-frequency sonar, VLS capability, and powerplant improvements, giving PLAN a credible deep-sea strike platform for blue-water deployment.

5. KSS-III Batch II – South Korea

The KSS-III program began in 2007, with the first Batch I submarine entering service in 2021. Batch II construction commenced in 2023, with delivery expected in 2026. These submarines are built entirely by South Korean industry, marking a significant leap in indigenous naval capability.

Displacing around 3,800 tons submerged, Batch II submarines integrate lithium-ion batteries, AIP fuel-cell systems, and a new Korean-designed combat suite. The boats are equipped with flank sonar, synthetic aperture sonar, and advanced ESM systems. Submerged endurance exceeds 20 days without snorkeling. Its Korean Vertical Launching System (K-VLS) can carry up to 10 Hyunmoo-4-4 SLBMs, giving it a strategic regional deterrence function.

Unique edge: The only conventionally powered submarine in the world fielding operational indigenous ballistic missiles, combining stealth AIP propulsion with strategic missile capability.

6. Taigei-Class – Japan

Japan initiated the Taigei-class program in 2017 to replace the Sōryū-class. The lead submarine, Taigei, was commissioned in March 2022, with additional boats delivered through 2025. The class is optimized for regional stealth operations in contested environments.

Taigei-class submarines displace around 3,000 tons submerged and are powered by lithium-ion batteries—offering higher output, faster charging, and longer submerged duration compared to traditional AIP. The class features high-resolution sonar systems by Oki Electric and NEC, and advanced fire-control for Type 18 heavyweight torpedoes and Harpoon missiles.

Unique edge: First operational submarine class powered entirely by lithium-ion batteries, enabling ultra-quiet sprints and enhanced tactical agility without the limitations of AIP systems.

7. Type 212CD – Germany/Norway

Germany and Norway launched the Type 212CD program in 2017 as a successor to the Type 212A. Construction began in 2022, with the first boats scheduled for delivery in 2026. It is being built by TKMS for the German and Royal Norwegian navies.

The submarine displaces approximately 2,500 tons and is equipped with a hydrogen fuel-cell AIP system, which allows for submerged endurance of up to 21 days. Its hull is built from non-magnetic steel and shaped to reduce sonar and magnetic detection. It includes Atlas Elektronik’s ISUS 100 combat suite and Seehecht torpedoes, optimized for shallow, acoustically complex environments like the Baltic and Arctic.

Unique edge: Most advanced AIP submarine in NATO, combining zero-emission fuel-cell propulsion with low-observable hull geometry and modular upgrades for extended Northern Hemisphere patrols.

8. Astute-Class – United Kingdom

The Astute-class was developed in the late 1990s to replace the Trafalgar-class. HMS Astute was commissioned in 2010, and by 2025, five boats are in service with two more in advanced fitting. Astute-class submarines will remain the UK’s front-line SSNs until SSN-AUKUS hulls arrive in the 2030s.

Displacing over 7,400 tons submerged, the class is powered by a PWR2 nuclear reactor and pump-jet propulsion, offering 25 years of fuel life. Sonar 2076 provides unrivaled acoustic range with more than 13,000 hydrophones. The boats are armed with Spearfish torpedoes and Tomahawk Block IV (and soon Block V) cruise missiles.

Unique edge: One of the most acoustically sophisticated SSNs in NATO, combining extended global endurance, exceptional sonar coverage, and modular upgrade potential aligned with the future AUKUS platform.

9. Kalvari-Class (Project 75 Scorpène Variant) – India

India’s Kalvari-class is based on the French Scorpène design and was developed under Project 75 in partnership with Naval Group and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. The program began in the early 2000s, with the first submarine, INS Kalvari, commissioned in 2017. The sixth and final boat of the class, INS Vagsheer, was commissioned in January 2025, completing the first indigenous modern submarine production cycle in Indian naval history.

The Kalvari-class displaces around 1,775 tons submerged and is powered by diesel-electric engines with battery propulsion, supported by French SUBTICS combat systems. These submarines are equipped with sonar systems developed by Thales and BEL, and they deploy Black Shark torpedoes and SM39 Exocet missiles. AIP capability was not integrated in Batch I but is scheduled for retrofitting in the coming years through an indigenous fuel-cell-based AIP module developed by DRDO. The submarines also support special forces deployment via integrated swimmer lockout trunks.

Unique edge: India’s first modern submarine production line, combining French design with Indian systems integration, and providing a scalable platform for indigenous AIP, cruise missile, and stealth upgrades in future Project 75(I) developments.

10. A26 Blekinge-Class – Sweden

The A26 Blekinge-class represents the most advanced Swedish submarine program since the Gotland-class and is designed for operations in both littoral and blue-water environments. Developed by Saab Kockums, construction began in 2021 for the Swedish Navy, with delivery of the first unit, HMS Blekinge, expected by 2026.

The A26 displaces around 2,122 tons submerged and features a modular design with a hull optimized for stealth, pressure resistance, and near-zero radiated acoustic emissions. It includes Stirling engine-based air-independent propulsion, offering three weeks of submerged endurance without surfacing. The integrated combat system is designed around Saab’s 9LV suite and Atlas Elektronik sonar. Armament includes torpedoes, mines, and long-range land-attack missiles (under development in cooperation with Saab Dynamics). The class features a unique multi-mission portal—a 1.5-meter lockout hangar for deploying special forces, UUVs, and divers.

Unique edge: The world’s most advanced modular AIP submarine, optimized for both confined and open-water operations, with unmatched mission adaptability for UUVs, seabed warfare, and special forces deployment.
Exclusive: Türkiye enters elite group of countries able to build aircraft carrier with MUGEM-class
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Türkiye has officially entered the elite league of nations capable of designing and constructing a fully indigenous aircraft carrier with the start of the MUGEM-class program at Istanbul Naval Shipyard in early 2025. The MUGEM-class represents a major leap in Türkiye’s naval defense ambitions, showcasing the maturity of its domestic shipbuilding and aerospace industries. Developed entirely through local engineering, manufacturing, and systems integration, the project places Türkiye on par with traditional naval powers such as the United States, China, and France, who each rely on large, complex industrial ecosystems to support their carrier construction programs.
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Scale model of Türkiye's MUGEM-class aircraft carrier displayed at defense exhibition showcases the future flagship of the Turkish Navy with fully indigenous design and aviation capabilities. (Picture source: Army Recognition Group)

The Turkish MUGEM-class aircraft carrier will be the largest warship ever built in Türkiye, with a projected displacement of 60,000 tons and a length of 285 meters. Built under the framework of the MILGEM national warship program, MUGEM adopts a STOBAR (Short Take-Off But Arrested Recovery) configuration. Its flight deck will incorporate 12-degree modular ski-jump ramps and an indigenous arrestor system, supporting a diverse air wing of manned and unmanned platforms. The air component will include the Bayraktar TB3 UCAV, Kızılelma jet-powered stealth drone, the HÜRJET light fighter, and potentially a navalized version of the TF-Kaan fifth-generation stealth aircraft. With capacity for thirty aircraft in its internal hangar and an additional twenty on deck, MUGEM is engineered as a hybrid carrier capable of sustained air operations in contested maritime zones.

The propulsion system will rely on a domestically developed COGAG (Combined Gas and Gas) configuration, enabling speeds above 25 knots and an operational range exceeding 10,000 nautical miles. Türkiye’s leading defense contractors including HAVELSAN, ASELSAN, and STM are responsible for the development and integration of MUGEM’s combat management system, electronic warfare suite, radar architecture, navigation, and command-and-control infrastructure. Unlike the traditional multi-national approaches to carrier construction, MUGEM is being built in a single national shipyard, demonstrating the industrial efficiency and capability of Türkiye’s vertically integrated defense ecosystem.

In comparison, the United States Navy remains the benchmark for carrier warfare with its Gerald R. Ford-class nuclear-powered supercarriers. The latest vessel in the class, USS Enterprise (CVN-80), is under construction at Newport News Shipbuilding and expected to join the fleet by 2028. These carriers feature advanced EMALS (Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch Systems), AAG (Advanced Arresting Gear), and the latest AN/SPY-6 radar suites. Displacing over 100,000 tons, each Ford-class carrier supports more than 75 aircraft including F-35C stealth fighters, E-2D Hawkeyes, and a full complement of electronic warfare and strike aircraft. The U.S. carrier model reflects over a century of sustained development supported by the world’s most mature naval industrial base.

China, quickly rising as a formidable maritime power, has accelerated its naval aviation programs through the Type 003 Fujian-class carrier, launched in 2022 at the Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai. With a displacement exceeding 80,000 tons and equipped with electromagnetic catapults similar to those used on U.S. carriers, Fujian marks China’s transition into high-tempo fixed-wing carrier operations. The ship is undergoing sea trials and is expected to be operational by the end of 2025. In parallel, China is advancing plans for a fourth carrier possibly nuclear-powered while expanding its shipyard infrastructure and aircraft development to support future carrier strike groups capable of global deployment.

France, a long-standing European naval power, is pursuing its next-generation carrier project, PANG (Porte-Avions de Nouvelle Génération), to replace the nuclear-powered Charles de Gaulle by the late 2030s. Built by Naval Group, the PANG will displace approximately 75,000 tons, be equipped with EMALS catapults, and launch future aircraft developed under the trinational FCAS (Future Combat Air System) program. Powered by two K22 nuclear reactors developed by TechnicAtome, the PANG reflects France’s emphasis on autonomous expeditionary capabilities and its commitment to maintaining a nuclear-powered blue-water navy with full strategic independence.

In contrast to these superpowers, Türkiye is achieving comparable technical sophistication within a streamlined national model. MUGEM’s full design, construction, and integration process is occurring entirely within Turkish borders, an unprecedented achievement in such a short development cycle. The project draws upon the experience gained from earlier indigenous platforms such as the TCG Anadolu amphibious assault ship, the Ada-class corvettes, and the I-class frigates. The inclusion of TF-2000 destroyers and the MILDEN-class submarines under the same national strategy reflects Türkiye’s broader goal to assemble a complete, indigenously built carrier strike group.

Strategically, the MUGEM-class serves Türkiye’s long-term maritime doctrine based on the "Blue Homeland" (Mavi Vatan) concept, extending the country’s naval reach across the Eastern Mediterranean, Aegean Sea, Black Sea, and deep into the Red Sea and Indian Ocean. This aircraft carrier is not only a projection of airpower at sea but a command-and-control hub that integrates unmanned technologies, electronic warfare, and next-generation naval aviation into a unified system. It will also provide a mobile base for rapid response operations, humanitarian missions, and multinational deployments completely free from foreign dependency.

More than a ship, MUGEM symbolizes the culmination of Türkiye’s transformation into a fully independent defense producer. With regional and global dynamics increasingly shaped by maritime superiority, the introduction of the MUGEM-class aircraft carrier positions Türkiye as a decisive actor capable of influencing the future of naval power projection well beyond its borders. This development will not only redefine Türkiye’s naval strategy but also send a clear message to allies and competitors alike. Türkiye has arrived as a carrier-capable maritime power with global ambitions, full industrial autonomy, and a shipbuilding model that is both innovative and strategically sustainable.
U.S. Navy mine counter-measure efforts advance with Raytheon Barracuda underwater neutralization vehicle
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According to information published by Raytheon on July 8, 2025, the American defense company successfully completed the first untethered, semi-autonomous demonstration of its Barracuda naval mine neutralization vehicle during open water testing in Narragansett Bay. The event marks a critical milestone in the U.S. Navy’s effort to modernize its mine countermeasure capabilities through the integration of autonomous unmanned systems. Raytheon, a business of RTX, confirmed that Barracuda performed all mission-critical functions independently, including underwater navigation, communication, target detection, classification, and tracking, culminating in a man-in-the-loop final engagement decision.
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Raytheon's Barracuda unmanned underwater mine detection vehicle during open water testing for mine neutralization missions. (Picture source: Raytheon)

The Raytheon Barracuda is a next-generation naval mine neutralization system and an advanced Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV) specifically engineered to identify and destroy bottom, volume, and near-surface sea mines. Unlike legacy systems that rely on tethered Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs), Barracuda functions untethered and semi-autonomously, significantly enhancing operational reach, mission efficiency, and platform survivability in high-risk maritime environments. The recent demonstration validated Barracuda’s ability to operate independently throughout a complete search-to-neutralization mission profile, marking a significant advancement in U.S. Navy undersea warfare technology.

For the U.S. Navy, Barracuda offers a transformative leap in mine warfare operations by enabling faster and safer mine clearance in littoral zones, chokepoints, and critical sea lanes. Its autonomous functionality reduces the need for divers and crewed platforms to enter mine-infested waters, significantly decreasing risk to personnel. The system’s modularity allows for easy deployment from various naval assets, including unmanned surface vessels, helicopters, and small boats, giving commanders operational flexibility and rapid response capability. Furthermore, its integration with networked battle management systems enables coordinated, multi-domain mine countermeasure operations as part of a larger naval task force.

Barracuda features a compact, hydrodynamic design with a modular and open systems architecture that supports advanced payload integration. It utilizes a suite of high-resolution sonar, electro-optical sensors, and onboard processing powered by artificial intelligence to detect and classify underwater mines with high accuracy. After positively identifying a threat, the system transmits data to a human operator who authorizes the final neutralization action, typically through the deployment of a controlled explosive charge. This man-in-the-loop safety mechanism maintains critical human oversight while reducing direct exposure of personnel to underwater threats.

As the first untethered mine neutralization UUV to become a formal program of record for the U.S. Navy, Barracuda represents a paradigm shift in autonomous naval mine warfare. The vehicle was developed under Raytheon’s Advanced Technology division, known for pioneering innovations used in other major programs such as LTAMDS and SPY-6. Designed for launch and recovery from various platforms, including unmanned surface vessels (USVs), helicopters, and small boats, Barracuda enables distributed and expeditionary MCM operations in both shallow coastal zones and deep-sea environments.

Raytheon has confirmed that the Barracuda program is on track to reach Initial Operational Capability (IOC) and Low-Rate Initial Production (LRIP) by 2030, in line with the U.S. Navy’s mine warfare modernization strategy. Additionally, Raytheon is investing in a larger, more capable variant of the Barracuda platform to support future mission profiles beyond mine neutralization, including subsea and seabed warfare, infrastructure security, and persistent undersea surveillance.

Barbara Borgonovi, president of Naval Power at Raytheon, highlighted the significance of the recent milestone, stating: “This recent testing demonstrates the significant strides we've made in advancing mine countermeasure technology. Barracuda's capabilities will dramatically improve safety and efficiency for the U.S. Navy, keeping sailors out of harm’s way while effectively addressing underwater threats.”

With the introduction of the Barracuda UUV, Raytheon is redefining the U.S. Navy’s ability to ensure maritime domain superiority through autonomous systems. Its flexibility, precision, and survivability make it a critical enabler of future undersea operations, supporting the U.S. Navy’s transition to a more agile and unmanned-capable fleet in response to evolving threats across the globe.
Exclusive Report: U.S. Navy Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City leads military diving innovations
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The U.S. Navy Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD) continues to cement its role as the epicenter of U.S. military diving innovation. Under the leadership of Dr. John Kelly, head of the Special Mission Systems Division, the center integrates cutting-edge research, engineering, testing, and sustainment programs to support the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps, and joint force underwater operations. Situated at the Naval Support Activity Panama City (NSA PC), NSWC PCD works in tight coordination with the Navy Experimental Diving Unit (NEDU) and the Naval Diving and Salvage Training Center (NDSTC), forming a trio of capabilities unmatched in the defense sector.
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Two military divers operate a dual-frame Seacraft diver propulsion vehicle during maritime operations. The system supports both linear tow and independent maneuver modes, allowing rapid adaptation to mission-specific requirements. (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

At the heart of U.S. Navy NSWC PCD's (Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division) mission is the development of advanced underwater mobility systems, next-generation diving apparatus, life support technologies, and tools for maritime special operations. These efforts are supported by a multidisciplinary team of engineers, scientists, and analysts who routinely simulate deep-sea conditions using hyperbaric chambers to test new gear and tactics. As underwater threats grow more sophisticated and operational demands increase, the center’s work remains critical in equipping divers with systems that offer both enhanced safety and superior mission performance.

Dr. Kelly highlights the synergy between the three tenant commands at NSA PC as a defining strength: NSWC PCD pioneers the technology, NEDU rigorously tests and certifies life support systems through manned evaluations, and NDSTC serves as the training ground for military divers across all U.S. service branches. This integrated approach enables rapid feedback loops from design to deployment, ensuring the U.S. underwater warfighter remains ahead of evolving threats.

Command Master Chief Jay Cox of NDSTC, a former master diver at NSWC PCD, underscores the technical foundation that underpins operational readiness. He emphasizes how NSWC PCD’s work in areas such as rebreather development, protective suits, mine countermeasures, underwater surveillance, and human performance modeling directly addresses modern challenges in military diving. These include extended-duration missions, complex environmental navigation, and cognitive load management under extreme pressure.

Diving is no longer limited to support roles, it is a frontline capability critical to a broad range of high-risk military and special operations missions. In recent years, military divers have supported operations such as the neutralization of naval mines in the Red Sea, sabotage prevention and reconnaissance around critical port infrastructure in the Eastern Mediterranean, and underwater recovery and exploitation missions in the Indo-Pacific region. These tasks demand the highest level of physical resilience and technical readiness, requiring gear that enables long-duration stealth movement, accurate underwater navigation, and survival in high-pressure or chemically contaminated environments.

NSWC PCD's innovations directly support these missions through modular rebreather systems that allow mission-adaptable gas mixes and low acoustic signatures, integrated diver propulsion systems with onboard sonar and threat detection, and digital heads-up displays for navigation in low visibility. Moreover, their collaborations on data-fusion tools link diver sensors with command-and-control networks, enabling live updates and mission flexibility in real time.

The operational utility of divers in Special Forces is expanding with new platforms that integrate manned and unmanned systems. Special operations divers are increasingly deploying alongside autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) for coordinated mine clearance, sabotage, or hydrographic intelligence collection. These capabilities are enhanced by NSWC PCD’s continued focus on cognitive performance research under hyperbaric stress, ensuring not only physical endurance but also mental clarity in critical mission phases.

By focusing on decompression modeling, diving physiology, and precision-engineered systems, NSWC PCD not only advances mission capability but also ensures diver survivability. The center’s holistic approach, linking research, real-world testing, and training, makes it a cornerstone of maritime security and undersea warfare innovation. As defense priorities shift toward littoral and undersea dominance, Panama City stands as the indispensable forge where underwater military advantage is shaped and sustained. In a world where sea control and denial are increasingly contested beneath the surface, the diver remains not just a tool of warfare, but a strategic asset enabled by relentless innovation.
EXCLUSIVE: U.S. Navy USS Delaware achieves first submarine torpedo tube launch and recovery of unmanned underwater vehicle
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According to information published on the Facebook account of the U.S. Commander of Submarine Forces on May 30, 2025, the Virginia-class fast-attack submarine USS Delaware (SSN 791) successfully conducted a landmark unmanned mission in the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) area of responsibility. The operation featured the Yellow Moray Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV), a customized version of the REMUS 600 designed to perform a wide range of underwater tasks, including mine countermeasures, surveillance, reconnaissance, and hydrographic surveys. This mission marked the first-ever forward deployed launch and recovery of a UUV via a submarine’s torpedo tube to complete a tactical objective, establishing a major breakthrough in submarine-launched autonomous capabilities.
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US Navy divers prepare the Yellow Moray Unmanned Underwater Vehicle alongside the Virginia-class submarine USS Delaware during a historic forward-deployed launch and recovery operation. (Picture source: Facebook U.S. Commander of Submarine Forces)

The mission involved three autonomous sorties of 6 to 10 hours each, conducted using the same Yellow Moray UUV (Unmanned Underwater Vehicle). All launches and recoveries were performed via U.S. Navy submarine Delaware’s torpedo tubes while submerged, without the use of divers. This operation validated the system’s reliability and effectiveness in real-world conditions, underscoring the strategic potential of integrating robotic platforms into traditional submarine operations. The ability to perform these missions autonomously enables new approaches to subsea and seabed warfare (SSW) while significantly reducing the risk to personnel.

The U.S. Navy USS Delaware (SSN 791), commissioned in April 2020, is the 18th submarine in the Virginia-class and part of the Block III series. It measures 115 m (377 ft) in length, has a beam of 10.3 m (34 ft), and a submerged displacement of approximately 7,800 tonnes. Propelled by an S9G nuclear reactor coupled to a pump-jet propulsor, it achieves submerged speeds exceeding 46 km/h (25+ knots) and can operate at depths beyond 240 m (800+ ft). The submarine is armed with 12 vertical launch system (VLS) tubes for Tomahawk cruise missiles and four 533 mm torpedo tubes for Mk 48 ADCAP torpedoes. Its sensor suite includes the AN/BQQ-10 sonar and Large Aperture Bow (LAB) array, providing superior undersea detection capabilities. It is also optimized for special operations, with reconfigurable payload spaces and dry deck shelter compatibility.

The Yellow Moray is a mission-configured variant of the REMUS 600 UUV, developed by HII’s Hydroid division. It is engineered for long-range, high-endurance operations at depths of up to 600 m (1,968 ft). The vehicle measures 3.25 m (10.7 ft) in length, has a diameter of 0.32 m (12.6 in), and weighs approximately 240 kg (530 lbs). Its modular design supports a variety of mission payloads including synthetic aperture sonar, side-scan sonar, CTD sensors, Doppler velocity logs (DVL), and inertial navigation systems. The system can operate autonomously in GPS-denied environments and execute complex routes in both shallow and deep waters.

The primary missions of the Yellow Moray UUV include seabed mapping, mine countermeasures, hydrographic reconnaissance, and undersea infrastructure monitoring. It is also capable of supporting intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) operations in denied areas where traditional platforms may face high risk. The vehicle provides operational commanders with valuable environmental and tactical data, enabling informed decision-making and more effective battlespace preparation.

For the U.S. Submarine Force, the operational deployment of UUVs like the Yellow Moray represents a strategic enhancement to mission capabilities. These systems allow submarines to extend their reach beyond manned limits, conducting detailed surveys and reconnaissance in contested or hazardous environments without exposing the platform or its crew to danger. They also increase the tempo and persistence of undersea operations, as UUVs can be rapidly redeployed for repeated missions without requiring maintenance between sorties. Additionally, launching and recovering a UUV via torpedo tube eliminates the need for surfacing or diver support, preserving stealth and operational security.

Vice Admiral Rob Gaucher, Commander of Submarine Forces, emphasized that integrating autonomous systems aboard submarines reduces risk to personnel and enables distributed sensing in complex environments. He highlighted the Navy’s intent to expand the use of such capabilities fleet-wide, ensuring that future attack submarines are equipped not only with powerful weapons and sensors, but also with unmanned systems that multiply their effectiveness across the battlespace.

The mission also showcased the agility and innovation of Submarine Force and UUV Group 1 personnel. After an initial failure to recover the UUV during trials in a Norwegian fjord in February, due to damage discovered post-launch, the system was returned to the U.S. for urgent repair. SUBFOR then redeployed the UUV back to theater, and USS Delaware performed a successful expeditionary reload, executing multiple autonomous missions, including the first-ever pierside diver-assisted torpedo tube UUV load in Norway.

The success of this operation confirms the operational readiness of submarine-launched UUVs for a wide array of missions critical to undersea warfare. As the U.S. Navy advances toward greater autonomy in its undersea forces, the Yellow Moray’s deployment from USS Delaware establishes a crucial milestone in the evolution of 21st-century naval combat, enabling a future where manned and unmanned assets operate seamlessly to ensure undersea dominance.
Exclusive Report: How British Navy Astute-class became one of the stealthiest attack submarines in the world
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The British Royal Navy Astute-class submarine is widely recognized as one of the most acoustically discreet and stealth-optimized submarines in the world. Designed and built by BAE Systems for the British Royal Navy, this class of nuclear-powered fleet submarines is the result of decades of technological refinement aimed at creating a platform capable of operating silently and invisibly beneath the oceans. In a modern maritime battlespace where the ability to remain undetected defines operational success, the Astute-class represents a near-perfect convergence of stealth, endurance, firepower, and resilience.
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HMS Astute submarine surfacing during UK Carrier Strike Group 2025 operations, shown here to illustrate the advanced stealth technologies discussed in this report, including its anechoic tile coating and ultra-quiet propulsion system. (Picture source: British MoD)

The British Royal Navy Astute-class is powered by a Rolls-Royce PWR2 nuclear reactor, which gives it virtually unlimited range and the ability to remain submerged for up to 90 days—its endurance limited only by crew and food supplies. The reactor provides energy to a turbo-electric propulsion system, where the nuclear energy generates electricity used to power an electric motor that drives the submarine’s pump-jet propulsion. This design eliminates the need for direct mechanical linkage between the reactor and propulsion shaft, drastically reducing the noise generated by moving components. The pump-jet system further lowers noise by avoiding cavitation, the bubble formation typically caused by propeller movement in water. This configuration enables the Astute to navigate with exceptional discretion even at higher speeds.

The stealth profile of the Astute-class is further enhanced by the application of more than 39,000 anechoic tiles covering the submarine’s hull. These tiles are made from a classified elastic material filled with microscopic air pockets specifically engineered to absorb incoming sonar waves. The function of the tiles is twofold: they reduce the effectiveness of active sonar signals targeting the submarine and also absorb vibrations and sounds emitted from inside the vessel, preventing these from being transmitted into the surrounding water. Unlike earlier submarine designs where tiles often detached during operations, the Astute-class benefits from improved materials and adhesives that ensure the tiles remain in place, even under the extreme pressure of deep-sea missions.

Internally, the submarine’s systems and layout are meticulously engineered to maintain silence. All heavy machinery is mounted on vibration-damping platforms to prevent mechanical resonance. Pipelines, ducts, and fittings are isolated acoustically, minimizing the transmission of structural noise. Crew activities are managed to conform with strict noise discipline, especially during sensitive operations. These combined efforts contribute to an acoustic signature so minimal that the Astute is considered quieter than natural marine background noise in some conditions.

The Astute-class also includes robust backup systems to ensure continued stealth even under mechanical failure or during specific low-speed maneuvers. Diesel generators are installed and can be activated when the submarine is surfaced or at periscope depth using a snorkel mast. These generators supply power to Emergency Propulsion Motors (EPMs), enabling the submarine to perform silent ‘cold moves’ at low speed when the reactor is offline. This is typically used during port transitions, such as movement between Faslane Naval Base and the Coulport weapons facility. In more extreme cases, if the main propulsion system is compromised, the submarine is fitted with a Secondary Propulsion Motor (SPM), nicknamed the "egg whisk." This electrically operated thruster can be deployed from the aft and used for low-speed navigation. It is also rotatable, allowing for directional steering and support in confined areas like harbors.

When it comes to firepower, the Astute-class marks a significant upgrade over previous British submarines. It is equipped with six 533mm torpedo tubes and has internal storage capacity for up to 38 weapons. This is a notable improvement from the Trafalgar-class, which had five tubes and carried 30 weapons. The Astute can be armed with the latest Spearfish Mod 1 heavyweight torpedoes as well as Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles (TLAMs). The Spearfish Mod 1 introduces a fiber-optic guidance system, an advanced warhead, improved counter-countermeasures, and enhanced propulsion—all of which increase both its range and its ability to strike quietly and accurately. These weapons give the Astute-class formidable anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare capabilities, as well as the ability to strike strategic land targets without exposing its position.

The submarine is fitted with the Thales 2076 sonar suite, considered one of the most advanced in the world. This sonar system provides full 360-degree coverage and long-range detection, capable of identifying threats far beyond the range at which the Astute itself could be detected. Integrated with a sophisticated combat management system co-developed by BAE Systems and Thales UK, the Astute-class can rapidly assess threats and deploy weapons in complex environments without compromising its position.

Technically, the Astute-class measures approximately 97 meters in length and displaces around 7,400 tonnes when submerged. It has a submerged speed exceeding 30 knots and a crew complement of roughly 98, with accommodations and support systems designed for extended deployments. Its construction incorporates high-strength steel and modern composite materials, and it is designed to endure extreme pressure at great depths while maintaining stealth and survivability.

The British Royal Navy Astute-class is not merely a submarine—it is a strategic tool of silent influence, designed for long-duration patrols in hostile or contested waters. Its fusion of anechoic technology, ultra-quiet propulsion, highly capable sonar and weapon systems, and extensive redundancy makes it one of the most effective and undetectable attack submarines ever produced. As underwater warfare becomes increasingly pivotal in global defense strategies, the Astute-class ensures the Royal Navy maintains a silent, lethal presence in the depths—ready to strike without warning and vanish without a trace.
Exclusive: U.S. Navy tests solid fuel rocket ramjet from drone to enhance strike flexibility in contested airspace
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The United States Navy has reached a significant milestone in missile technology by successfully conducting the first air-launch of a Solid Fuel Integral Rocket Ramjet (SFIRR) from an unmanned aerial platform. This test, carried out by the Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD), represents a major advancement in the modernization of long-range missile systems. By integrating cutting-edge propulsion and fire control systems into a missile demonstrator in just 12 months, the Navy has demonstrated its capacity for rapid innovation and fielding of next-generation weapons.
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A remotely piloted BQM-34 unmanned aerial target launches a test missile over the Point Mugu Sea Range, supporting the development of an advanced missile design to enhance range and precision for future Navy operations. (Picture source: U.S. Navy)

The SFIRR (Solid Fuel Integral Rocket Ramjet) technology offers a new paradigm in missile propulsion. Unlike traditional ramjet systems, which typically rely on liquid fuel and complex combustion mechanisms, the SFIRR uses a solid fuel source that acts both as a propellant and as part of the structural component of the missile. This eliminates many of the design and logistical challenges associated with handling and storing liquid fuels, particularly in combat environments. Additionally, solid fuel systems are inherently more stable and easier to integrate into various launch platforms. By combining the acceleration phase of a rocket with the sustained propulsion of a ramjet in a compact solid fuel package, the SFIRR achieves high speeds over long distances while retaining superior maneuverability. This makes it ideal for striking fast-moving or distant targets with high precision.

The recent test involved launching the SFIRR from a BQM-34 unmanned target vehicle, which was equipped with a sophisticated fire control system to coordinate the launch. This represents not just a propulsion breakthrough but a strategic evolution in how the U.S. Navy intends to deploy future weapons. By launching missiles from unmanned platforms, the U.S. Navy can engage threats at standoff ranges, keeping both manned assets and personnel out of harm's way. This approach also introduces greater operational flexibility, as unmanned systems can be deployed in contested or denied areas where manned aircraft might face greater risks.

The Naval Air Warfare Center Weapons Division (NAWCWD), headquartered at China Lake, California, is the U.S. Navy's principal research and development center for weapons systems. As the Lead Prototype Integrator in this project, NAWCWD successfully combined propulsion, avionics, and fire control technologies into a single, flight-ready demonstrator in under a year. This accomplishment highlights the center’s ability to rapidly translate emerging research into practical, deployable solutions. NAWCWD works in collaboration with government agencies, defense industry partners, and academic institutions to accelerate innovation and ensure the Navy maintains a technological edge in an increasingly contested global security environment.

From a tactical and strategic standpoint, the SFIRR’s success carries far-reaching implications. Its compact design and simplified fuel system reduce logistical burdens and make it suitable for a wide variety of platforms, from manned fighter jets to unmanned aerial systems. The increased range and speed provide greater engagement envelopes, allowing commanders to neutralize threats before they come within effective striking distance. The solid fuel ramjet's high-speed, sustained propulsion is particularly advantageous for penetrating advanced air defense systems or pursuing time-sensitive targets. In a future combat scenario, these capabilities enhance the Navy’s ability to project power, conduct deep strikes, and operate with agility across multiple domains.

This successful demonstration is more than a technical achievement—it is a clear indication that the U.S. Navy is moving swiftly to modernize its arsenal and maintain superiority in missile warfare. The lessons learned from the SFIRR test are already being applied to the development of an even more advanced missile prototype, focused on increasing speed, range, and operational flexibility. As potential adversaries invest in their own advanced weaponry, initiatives like this ensure that the U.S. Navy remains at the forefront of global maritime combat capability.
Technology: UK SubSea Craft unveils MARS next generation unmanned surface vessel for modern naval warfare
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On May 1, 2025, British maritime technology company SubSea Craft officially unveiled its latest cutting-edge innovation: the MARS (Maritime Autonomous Reconnaissance System), a multi-mission uncrewed surface vessel (USV) tailored for the operational demands of modern and future maritime warfare. Developed in just 100 days, MARS stands as a hallmark of rapid, platform-level innovation, engineered to address the urgent tactical needs identified through lessons learned from recent global conflicts, notably the war in Ukraine and operations in the Black Sea.
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MARS uncrewed surface vessel developed by UK’s SubSea Craft during sea trials following rapid 100 day production cycle. (Picture source: Subsea Craft)

The conflict in Ukraine has accelerated global interest in autonomous and unmanned systems, particularly in the maritime domain. Ukrainian forces’ creative use of uncrewed surface vessels—many of them commercially modified or rapidly improvised—highlighted their effectiveness in asymmetric naval warfare, including in contested areas such as the Black Sea. These vessels have been used to disrupt larger Russian warships and coastal infrastructure, proving the strategic value of low-cost, expendable platforms capable of high-risk missions where deploying manned assets would be too dangerous or politically sensitive. This operational context has prompted defense innovators like SubSea Craft to respond with scalable, purpose-built USVs that are both versatile and rapidly deployable.

MARS is designed for projection from medium to large surface platforms, and combines a low signature with high-speed capability. Its role spans from blue-water operations to littoral zones and inland waterways, reflecting a growing need for vessels that can operate seamlessly across varied maritime environments. Whether deployed autonomously or as part of a manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) framework, MARS provides scalable, multi-mission capabilities ideally suited for modern naval scenarios where flexibility and risk mitigation are paramount.

The MARS platform supports a broad range of mission profiles, including maritime domain awareness, persistent intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), counter-uncrewed systems (UxS), and full-spectrum ISTAR operations. With an open architecture digital control system—evolved from the company’s earlier VICTA platform—MARS is compatible with scalable C5ISR networks and a variety of kinetic and non-kinetic modular payloads. This adaptability allows the vessel to integrate seamlessly into both asymmetrical and conventional force structures.

Significantly, MARS has been designed, built, and put into the water in just over three months, a testament to SubSea Craft’s agile engineering process and operator-led development philosophy. Manufactured in the UK, the platform has already undergone field trials in Australia, in collaboration with the Australian Maritime College, and has been tested with U.S.-developed payloads, reinforcing its international interoperability and appeal, particularly within the AUKUS defense framework.

SubSea Craft plans to exhibit the MARS platform at major defense expos throughout 2025, including SOF Week in Tampa, DEFEA in Athens, and DSEI in London. These events will allow defense stakeholders to explore the capabilities of MARS firsthand and assess its value in modernizing naval forces and preparing for increasingly complex and high-risk maritime operations.

As the nature of conflict evolves, with greater emphasis on autonomy, survivability, and operational reach, platforms like MARS signify a clear shift in how maritime power can be projected and sustained. SubSea Craft’s approach underscores a broader transformation in naval doctrine—one in which modular, unmanned, and quickly deployable systems will play a pivotal role in maintaining maritime superiority.
Exclusive: China Reveals Improved Variant of Type 094 Nuclear Submarine with Advanced Capabilities
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For the first time, China has disclosed new technical specifications of its Type 094 nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine (SSBN), revealing significantly upgraded capabilities that suggest the emergence of a new and improved variant within the class. The announcement was made during the People’s Liberation Army Navy’s (PLAN) open day on April 23, 2025, and was reported by the South China Morning Post on May 2, 2025. This marks a rare public acknowledgment of the operational performance of one of China’s most critical strategic assets.
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A Chinese Type 094 nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine underway at sea. The latest improved variant features enhanced speed, deeper diving capability, and upgraded strategic missile systems. (Picture source: China social network)

According to technical details observed and collected by a South China Morning Post journalist during the event, the Type 094 SSBN is now confirmed to have a maximum submerged speed of 30 knots and an operational depth of 400 meters. These figures represent a considerable leap over previous assessments that estimated the submarine’s top speed at 20 knots and its maximum operating depth at 300 meters. These upgraded parameters are indicative of a newly constructed or extensively modernized version of the original design—rather than a simple retrofit—suggesting enhancements to propulsion, hull integrity, and onboard systems.

The submarine’s propulsion system is a pressurized water-cooled nuclear reactor, which powers a single shaft via a steam turbine arrangement. While specific technical components remain classified, the improvements in submerged speed and stealth performance likely stem from the integration of more modern powerplant elements, better vibration dampening, and possibly the use of quieter propeller technologies or pump-jet propulsion. These enhancements are critical in reducing acoustic signatures, which are vital for strategic submarines designed to operate undetected in contested waters.

Crew composition aboard the Type 094 typically ranges from 120 to 140 personnel, covering all operational domains including navigation, reactor control, weapons deployment, sonar monitoring, and missile operations. A dedicated team manages the strategic missile arsenal, reflecting the platform's primary role in China’s nuclear triad. Crew training has been significantly improved in recent years, aligning with the PLAN’s efforts to ensure continuous at-sea deterrence patrols.

The submarine is equipped with 12 JL-2 submarine-launched ballistic missiles (SLBMs), each with an estimated range of 7,000 kilometers (4,350 miles). This range allows the submarine to engage targets across the Pacific, including the northeastern United States, from waters near the Chinese mainland. The JL-2 missiles are believed to use inertial navigation systems with satellite-aided corrections via China’s Beidou GPS alternative, improving targeting accuracy. While China has not officially confirmed the Multiple Independently targetable Reentry Vehicle (MIRV) capability of the JL-2, it is widely assessed by defense analysts that certain versions of the missile may support this functionality, allowing one missile to deliver multiple nuclear warheads to separate targets.

Beyond its nuclear payload, the Type 094 is also fitted with six 533 mm torpedo tubes positioned in the forward hull. These provide conventional defensive capabilities and are likely used to launch Yu-6 torpedoes, which are wire-guided, high-speed, active/passive homing weapons modeled after the U.S. Navy’s Mk 48. With a range exceeding 30 kilometers and speeds up to 60 knots, these torpedoes give the SSBN limited anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-ship capabilities. The submarine may also carry acoustic decoys, sonar countermeasures, and towed array sonar systems to detect threats and evade hostile forces during patrols.

Currently, at least six Type 094 submarines are in operational service with the PLAN, with most believed to be based at Yulin Naval Base on Hainan Island. The newly revealed specifications suggest that one or more units are of a newly upgraded variant—possibly a distinct sub-class—indicating an evolution in China's undersea deterrent posture. These enhancements reflect China’s sustained investment in bolstering the survivability and reach of its sea-based nuclear forces.

The decision to release technical information on such a strategic asset is unprecedented and signals a calculated move by Beijing to reinforce the credibility of its naval deterrent. While still limited in scope, the disclosure demonstrates growing confidence in the PLAN’s submarine force and serves both domestic reassurance and strategic signaling to foreign observers. As part of China's wider military modernization program, the improved Type 094 SSBN underscores Beijing's ambitions to establish a survivable, secure, and technologically advanced second-strike capability, further solidifying its role as a major nuclear power with global reach.
Technology: U.S. Eureka Naval Craft revolutionizes naval forces with AIRCAT Bengal MC autonomous attack vessel
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The US defense company Eureka Naval Craft and Australian marine autonomy specialist Greenroom Robotics are preparing to revolutionize naval warfare with the introduction of the AIRCAT Bengal MC, a vessel described as the most advanced autonomous naval attack craft ever designed. Developed in partnership with ESNA Naval Architects and powered by Greenroom’s cutting-edge autonomy software, the Bengal MC combines unprecedented speed, payload capacity, and combat versatility into a single, highly modular platform.
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The AIRCAT Bengal MC combines high speed, heavy payload capacity, and cutting-edge AI autonomy for next-generation naval operations. (Picture source: Eureka Naval Craft)

The AIRCAT Bengal MC is a 36-meter Surface Effect Ship (SES) that represents a radical shift in how navies can deploy fast, lethal vessels. This multi-mission platform is capable of operating both crewed and uncrewed, offering remarkable flexibility. Capable of reaching speeds of over 50 knots depending on payload and boasting a range of 1,000 nautical miles, the Bengal MC is designed to deliver maximum impact across a broad range of missions. It can carry up to 40 tonnes — equivalent to two 40-foot ISO containers — allowing it to deploy a wide variety of modular systems rapidly. The ship is equipped to fire Tomahawk cruise missiles and Naval Strike Missiles (NSM), providing it with a strategic force projection capability traditionally reserved for larger and more expensive warships.

Beyond its firepower, the Bengal MC's modularity ensures it can be swiftly adapted for different mission profiles, including troop transport, landing support, electronic warfare, mine-laying and counter-mine operations, and acting as a drone mothership. Its ability to transition between roles without significant refitting underscores its utility in the modern battlespace, where agility and flexibility are paramount.

Central to the Bengal MC’s capabilities is the integration of Greenroom Robotics’ Advanced Maritime Autonomy (GAMA) software, a sophisticated system offering AI-driven situational awareness and navigation. Greenroom’s CEO, James Keane, highlighted that the Bengal MC will inherit the autonomy expertise proven during the Patrol Boat Autonomy Trial (PBAT)—a successful project in collaboration with the Royal Australian Navy and Austal Australia, where autonomy systems were validated aboard a decommissioned Armidale-class patrol boat. Thanks to this heritage, the Bengal MC will feature swarm-enabled fleet operations, human-machine teaming, and state-of-the-art AI for surface warfare, special operations support, drone and missile defense, and rapid response scenarios. Greenroom’s focus on “humans-in-the-loop” ensures the ship remains highly adaptable, even in the most complex, high-threat environments.

The AIRCAT Bengal MC is more than just technologically impressive — it is strategically positioned to disrupt the traditional naval procurement market. As explained by Eureka CEO Bo Jardine, the vessel’s cost-effectiveness, thanks to modular construction techniques, offers a compelling alternative to traditional corvettes and frigates that are often sluggish, outdated, and expensive. By optimizing manufacturing processes and reducing operational costs, the Bengal MC allows navies to field advanced capabilities without breaking defense budgets. Its lower fuel consumption, superior endurance, and reduced maintenance needs make it especially attractive to navies looking to maximize operational availability while minimizing life-cycle costs.

In addition to these economic advantages, the Bengal MC’s Surface Effect Ship (SES) design delivers an exceptionally high speed-to-weight ratio, greater stability, and enhanced ride quality. This enables greater accuracy with onboard weapon systems and reduces wear and tear on critical ship systems, sensors, and sensitive payloads. Furthermore, the ship’s small profile and high-speed capability enhance its survivability in contested environments, offering a significant tactical advantage in modern naval operations.

Initially, the AIRCAT Bengal MC will be offered to the US Navy, US Marine Corps, and allied navies under the AUKUS agreement, NATO, as well as strategic partners in Asia-Pacific including Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines. This wide market focus reflects the increasing global demand for autonomous and versatile naval platforms capable of operating effectively in a variety of regional threat environments.

The Bengal MC also joins an expanding family of AIRCAT vessels produced by Eureka, including the Bengal, Lynx, Jaguar, and Panther classes. Each variant is tailored to specific missions such as fast attack, reconnaissance, rescue, high-speed troop transport, and unmanned logistics. The commonality across the AIRCAT series allows navies to customize their fleets according to mission demands while benefiting from shared support systems, training, and maintenance infrastructures.

With the unveiling of the AIRCAT Bengal MC, Eureka Naval Craft and Greenroom Robotics are setting a new standard for future maritime operations. By combining high speed, heavy payload capacity, modular mission adaptability, and the most advanced AI-driven autonomy available, the Bengal MC offers allied navies a disruptive, future-proofed solution to the complex challenges of modern naval warfare.
Exclusive Analysis: Discover critical air defense roles of HMS Dauntless destroyer to protect British Navy Carrier Strike Group
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As the British Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales aircraft carrier sets sail to lead Carrier Strike Group 25 (CSG25) on Operation HIGHMAST—an eight-month strategic deployment to the Indo-Pacific—the role of HMS Dauntless stands out as a cornerstone of the task force’s air-defense capability. HMS Dauntless, a Type 45 Daring-class guided-missile destroyer, is purpose-built for anti-air warfare and plays a critical role in safeguarding the aircraft carrier and the entire strike group from a rapidly evolving array of aerial threats. Armed with cutting-edge radar and missile systems, she forms the first line of defense against advanced dangers such as unmanned aerial systems (UAS), loitering munitions, cruise missiles, and other high-speed airborne weapons.
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British Navy HMS Dauntless, a Type 45 guided-missile destroyer, serves as the critical air defense platform for the British Carrier Strike Group during Operation HIGHMAST 2025, protecting the fleet from advanced aerial threats. (Picture source: British MoD)

In an era where aerial and missile attacks are becoming more sophisticated and prevalent, the presence of a dedicated air-defense platform like HMS Dauntless within a Carrier Strike Group is not only strategically significant but absolutely essential. This news analysis delves into the strategic importance of HMS Dauntless, examining her advanced combat systems and the critical role she plays in ensuring the safety and operational effectiveness of the British Carrier Strike Group across hostile and contested maritime regions.

Aircraft carriers, by their nature, are powerful symbols of national power projection but are also large, high-value targets that attract a wide spectrum of threats. These threats have evolved dramatically in recent years. The emergence of drones, loitering munitions, long-range cruise missiles, and hypersonic weapons has fundamentally changed naval warfare. Air superiority and the ability to defend against such threats are no longer desirable—they are essential. HMS Dauntless fulfills this need by providing the strike group with the kind of layered, integrated air defense that is crucial for modern naval operations.

At the core of the Type 45 Daring-class guided-missile destroyer HMS Dauntless’s defense architecture is the Sea Viper missile system—a highly advanced air-defense suite capable of engaging multiple high-speed, high-altitude, and maneuverable aerial targets simultaneously. Sea Viper is composed of two main elements: the SAMPSON multi-function radar and the Aster missile family.

The SAMPSON radar, a dual-faced, active electronically scanned array (AESA) system mounted on the main mast, is one of the most advanced naval radars in the world. Operating in the S-band frequency range, SAMPSON can track up to 1,000 targets at ranges in excess of 400 kilometers. This includes high-diving ballistic missiles, sea-skimming cruise missiles, and fast jet aircraft, even under heavy electronic jamming conditions. Its precision and tracking fidelity allow for real-time threat evaluation and prioritization—critical in a saturation attack scenario.

The missile element of the Sea Viper system consists of Aster 15 and Aster 30 surface-to-air missiles, both launched from a 48-cell SYLVER vertical launch system (VLS). Aster 15 is optimized for short to medium-range engagements (up to 30 km), while Aster 30 provides long-range coverage exceeding 120 kilometers. Both missiles use a unique “PIF-PAF” guidance system (Pilotage en Force – Pilotage en Accélération), which combines inertial navigation and active radar homing with extreme agility, allowing for high-G maneuvers during the terminal phase of engagement. This gives HMS Dauntless the capability to intercept even highly maneuverable supersonic targets with pinpoint precision.

Complementing Sea Viper are point-defense systems like the Phalanx CIWS (Close-In Weapon System)—a radar-guided 20mm Gatling gun capable of firing 4,500 rounds per minute, designed to neutralize incoming threats at distances of less than 1.5 kilometers. The ship also fields 30mm DS30M Mark 2 automated cannons for countering smaller surface and aerial threats, including fast inshore attack craft and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

HMS Dauntless’s main gun, a 4.5-inch (114mm) Mark 8 naval gun, provides additional versatility, capable of delivering sustained fire against surface threats and shore targets, and potentially even engaging slower, larger drones. The destroyer’s embarked Wildcat helicopter enhances her situational awareness and threat response capability, armed with Martlet and Sea Venom missiles, further extending her engagement envelope.

Importantly, Dauntless’s combat management system, based on BAE Systems' DNA(2) architecture, integrates all radar, sonar, and weapons systems into a cohesive decision-making platform, enabling rapid sensor-to-shooter cycles. This allows the ship to operate autonomously or as part of a coordinated strike group defense network, sharing sensor data and engagement solutions with allied ships.

During Exercise Sharpshooter, a pre-deployment trial simulating complex drone swarm attacks, HMS Dauntless demonstrated her readiness to counter contemporary threats. The ship’s systems successfully engaged multiple drone targets using a combination of hard-kill and soft-kill tactics, proving her layered defense model and validating her role in real combat scenarios.

As HMS Dauntless enters contested maritime regions such as the South China Sea and the Red Sea, her advanced air-defense capabilities are essential. These regions have witnessed the growing use of drones and missile attacks in real-world operations, highlighting the very threats she was designed to counter. The destroyer’s ability to detect, identify, and neutralize multiple, simultaneous airborne threats ensures that HMS Prince of Wales and the wider task force can operate with confidence and security.

In summary, HMS Dauntless is not merely a protective escort but the backbone of the air-defense network that safeguards the Royal Navy’s carrier-led operations. Her state-of-the-art sensors, high-performance missiles, and battle-tested defense systems make her an indispensable asset in the UK’s effort to maintain a forward, credible naval presence in the Indo-Pacific. As threats grow more sophisticated, the role of the Type 45 destroyer in the Carrier Strike Group is more vital than ever—serving as both shield and sentinel in an era of strategic uncertainty.
Exclusive: China develops new submarine detection breakthrough threatening US naval intelligence and stealth operations
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Chinese scientists have developed a groundbreaking passive acoustic detection method that significantly enhances military submarine tracking capabilities, particularly in the Arctic—an emerging strategic arena for naval dominance. For China, this advancement strengthens the operational scope of the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) by providing the ability to monitor and potentially control underwater activity in a region increasingly vital for global power projection.
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Based on Arctic data from the 2020 expedition, Chinese-developed passive acoustic detection technology enables precise tracking of submarines and poses a new threat to U.S. naval stealth and intelligence operations. (Picture source: Editing Army Recognition Group)

For the U.S. Navy, this technology poses a substantial threat to its longstanding submarine superiority, especially under the Arctic ice where American nuclear submarines have traditionally operated with near impunity. The ability of China to detect, classify, and accurately determine the depth of U.S. submarines in such environments could erode the strategic advantage the United States has maintained in undersea stealth and deterrence. This shift not only complicates future American naval operations in the Arctic but also demands urgent advancements in counter-detection and acoustic stealth technologies to preserve undersea supremacy.

This innovation, spearheaded by researchers at Harbin Engineering University, leverages the unique acoustic properties of the Beaufort Sea to achieve unprecedented accuracy in identifying and locating underwater targets, potentially reshaping the dynamics of submarine warfare in the region.

The new detection method is based on a passive depth-discrimination technique that uses computational simulations informed by data collected during China’s 2020 Arctic expedition. It takes advantage of the complex “double duct” structure of the Beaufort Sea—a region marked by layered water masses with contrasting temperatures and salinities. These natural acoustic channels, particularly the so-called Beaufort duct between 80 and 300 meters in depth, enable horizontal propagation of sound with minimal loss due to reflection or scattering by sea ice. This phenomenon, long known to complicate traditional sonar operations, has now been transformed into a tactical asset by Chinese researchers.

With a reported detection accuracy of 93% for submerged targets and 100% for surface vessels, this technology offers a significant enhancement to China’s undersea warfare capabilities. By determining the depth of sound sources—such as submarine engines or propulsion systems—with high precision, Chinese naval forces can now track enemy submarines even under ice-covered waters. The method’s efficiency is further underlined by its use of only six passive sensor arrays, making it both cost-effective and operationally discreet. Unlike active sonar, which emits detectable signals, passive systems listen silently, preserving stealth and avoiding counter-detection—an advantage in contested or hostile waters.

For China, this capability opens a new strategic frontier in the Arctic, an increasingly important theater for global naval power. The Arctic not only offers new maritime routes and resources but is also of immense geopolitical significance, especially as ice recedes and access improves. Enhanced submarine detection in these waters would allow China to monitor movements, establish presence, and potentially challenge Western naval dominance in the region.

From a military standpoint, this technology could serve several critical roles for the PLAN. It strengthens early-warning systems, boosts anti-submarine warfare efficiency, and provides China with a greater ability to safeguard its strategic assets, including ballistic missile submarines (SSBNs). It also augments China’s ability to surveil U.S. and allied submarines operating in Arctic waters, limiting their operational freedom and compromising their stealth advantage.

For the U.S. Navy and its allies, this advancement represents a serious challenge. The Arctic has traditionally been a bastion of stealth for American nuclear submarines, especially the Ohio-class and Virginia-class vessels tasked with deterrent and strike missions. The presence of a sophisticated Chinese detection grid could undermine the survivability of these assets, eroding one of the U.S. Navy’s key strategic advantages. In particular, the ability to passively track submarines without revealing one's position shifts the balance in undersea warfare, potentially forcing the U.S. to invest heavily in countermeasures, stealth enhancements, and alternative communication techniques for operations under the polar ice cap.

Moreover, as the U.S. Navy considers the Arctic a critical area for future operations and deterrence, particularly against Russian and Chinese expansion, such technological strides by Beijing could necessitate a reevaluation of U.S. submarine deployment patterns, communication infrastructure, and undersea warfare doctrines. The passive detection system developed by China is not just a technical success—it is a strategic tool with far-reaching implications for the global balance of naval power. As this technology evolves, it may accelerate a new phase in the underwater arms race, with direct consequences for the security calculus of Arctic and global naval operations.
Exclusive: Russia unveils kamikaze naval drone Marlin to counter enemy drone boats - landing craft - naval mines
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Russia has introduced a new lightweight unmanned surface vessel (USV) named Marlin, developed as a compact kamikaze drone boat capable of targeting enemy unmanned boats, amphibious landing craft, and naval mines. The innovative system, created by the Baltic Higher Naval School named after Admiral Ushakov, reflects the growing importance of unmanned systems in modern naval warfare and Russia’s strategic push to counter evolving maritime threats.
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The Marlin is a compact Russian kamikaze unmanned surface vessel (USV) designed to destroy enemy drone boats, landing craft, and naval mines. Small enough for mass deployment aboard warships, it carries up to 2 kg of explosives and operates with FPV-style remote control for precision targeting. (Picture source: IZ.ru)

The Marlin USV (Unmanned Surface Vessel) comes in two distinct versions tailored for different environments: a riverine variant equipped with a 1.5 kg explosive charge and a seaborne version carrying a larger 2 kg warhead. Its compact size enables the deployment of multiple units aboard a single warship, significantly increasing operational flexibility and allowing for mass attacks or swarm tactics against enemy vessels and installations. Due to its expendable nature and lower cost, Marlin provides a practical and efficient solution for neutralizing threats that would otherwise require the use of high-value munitions or more expensive platforms.

Control of the Marlin is similar to that of FPV (first-person view) drones. The operator remotely pilots the vessel using real-time video feedback, guiding it with precision toward its designated target. This method of control enhances the vessel's operational accuracy, making it suitable for complex missions such as clearing minefields or engaging enemy USVs before they reach critical naval assets.

Military analysts in Russia have emphasized the tactical value of Marlin, particularly in its role as a defensive countermeasure against enemy kamikaze drones. Captain First Rank Vasily Dandykin explained that even a small explosive payload aboard Marlin can effectively neutralize a larger enemy drone carrying several hundred kilograms of explosives, offering a safer and more reliable alternative than attempting to intercept such threats with helicopter sorties or ship-mounted weapons.

The emergence of the Marlin coincides with increased usage of unmanned platforms in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where both Russian and Ukrainian forces have incorporated USVs into their operations. Ukraine has utilized these platforms to deliver aerial drones and conduct attacks on Russian naval targets, accelerating a shift in naval warfare toward remote-controlled and autonomous solutions.

To adapt to these changing conditions, the Russian Navy has integrated anti-drone warfare into its training programs. A new combat readiness initiative, known as the Counter-Robot Protection (PRZ) program, trains crews to respond to both aerial and maritime drone threats using upgraded onboard weapons, including large-caliber machine guns, anti-drone shotguns, night vision systems, and other specialized equipment.

The unveiling of Marlin complements Russia’s broader efforts to modernize its drone fleet. In parallel, the country has begun serial production of heavier, multi-purpose unmanned boats such as the Vizir, which features autonomous navigation powered by artificial intelligence and the capability to carry reconnaissance equipment, cargo, or guided weaponry. Additional USVs have also been introduced with payload capacities of up to 20 kg and can be configured for kamikaze missions or as drone launch platforms.

Though specific performance metrics of Marlin remain classified, its development signals a clear move toward leveraging cost-effective and rapidly deployable unmanned systems to address emerging threats at sea. As the maritime domain becomes increasingly dominated by unmanned warfare technologies, platforms like Marlin are poised to play a crucial role in future naval engagements.
Exclusive Analysis: Inside Secretive F/A-XX Project U.S. Navy’s Next Generation Stealth Fighter Jet for Aircraft Carriers
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The United States Navy is charting a bold course toward the next generation of aircraft carrier-based air superiority with the development of the F/A-XX, a sixth-generation fighter intended to replace the aging fleet of Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornets. This initiative forms the centerpiece of the Navy's Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, distinct from the Air Force's similarly named effort, and aims to maintain the Navy's tactical edge in contested maritime environments through the 2030s and beyond.
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Concept rendering from Northrop Grumman video depicting a possible design for the U.S. Navy’s future F/A-XX sixth-generation stealth fighter, featuring a tailless configuration optimized for carrier-based operations and low observability. (Picture source: Northrop Grumman)

The F/A-XX will be a manned aircraft designed to operate alongside unmanned systems and legacy platforms such as the F-35C Lightning II. As envisioned, it will embody a comprehensive leap in capability across multiple domains, incorporating stealth, advanced sensors, resilient communications, increased range, and adaptability to network-centric warfare environments. The aircraft is being developed with an open mission systems architecture to enable rapid upgrades and modular payload integration, allowing the Navy to adapt the platform to emerging threats and technological advances over its lifecycle.

While the U.S. Navy has kept many specifics of the F/A-XX classified, early concept art and defense analysis suggest a tailless, stealth-optimized design, likely with a larger airframe to accommodate increased fuel capacity for extended range and potentially larger or directed-energy weapons. The fighter is expected to carry both kinetic and non-kinetic systems and will be capable of operating in a highly contested anti-access/area denial (A2/AD) environment, leveraging artificial intelligence and manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) for maximum operational flexibility.

In terms of combat capabilities and armament, the F/A-XX is expected to feature a highly flexible internal weapons bay to carry a range of air-to-air and air-to-ground munitions, including beyond-visual-range missiles, hypersonic weapons, and precision-guided bombs. The integration of directed-energy weapons such as high-energy lasers for missile defense and anti-drone operations is also under consideration. The platform will likely possess advanced electronic attack capabilities and next-generation radar systems with enhanced detection and targeting ranges. Furthermore, modularity in weapon configurations will allow rapid tailoring of loadouts for specific mission profiles.

Key mission sets for the F/A-XX include air dominance, long-range strike, suppression and destruction of enemy air defenses (SEAD/DEAD), and electronic warfare. Importantly, it is intended to serve as the "quarterback" of the future carrier air wing, orchestrating both manned and unmanned assets in real time. The Navy envisions the F/A-XX working in concert with systems like the MQ-25 Stingray for aerial refueling and future combat drones expected to take on ISR (intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance) and strike roles.

The fighter aircraft is being designed to be fully compatible with current U.S. Navy aircraft carriers, including the Ford-class and Nimitz-class vessels. It will utilize existing launch and recovery systems such as the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG), minimizing the need for extensive carrier modifications. This ensures that the Navy can deploy the F/A-XX without disrupting current naval aviation operations, while also preparing for more advanced carrier operations in the future.

In March 2023, the U.S. Navy awarded contracts to Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman to develop preliminary designs for the F/A-XX under the NGAD umbrella. The service has indicated that fielding should begin in the early 2030s, with the first units reaching operational capability shortly thereafter. These developments reflect growing urgency as peer adversaries like China continue to modernize their military capabilities, particularly in air defense and anti-ship missile technologies that threaten U.S. naval air power projection.

According to information published by Reuters on March 25, 2025, the U.S. Navy is expected to announce in the coming weeks which defense contractor will be selected to build its next-generation carrier-based stealth fighter. The decision will mark a pivotal milestone in the F/A-XX program, which is estimated to be worth hundreds of billions of dollars over its lifetime. In the short term, the contract for the engineering and manufacturing development (EMD) phase is projected to be worth several billion dollars, but its long-term significance lies in its central role in maintaining U.S. naval superiority in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the face of growing Chinese assertiveness.

The new fighter jet is expected to feature enhanced stealth characteristics, improved range and endurance, and seamless integration with uncrewed combat aircraft as well as the Navy's shipborne air defense networks. The Navy did not comment on the anticipated announcement, but the recent confirmation of Secretary of the U.S. Navy John Phelan adds weight to the strategic timing of the decision. Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman are the leading competitors, having already submitted detailed proposals and prototypes for evaluation in what has become a closely watched and intensely contested competition. The competition has been intense, with Boeing Co, Lockheed Martin, and Northrop Grumman Corp submitting detailed proposals and prototypes for evaluation.

One of the major technological enablers of the F/A-XX will be its engine. The aircraft is expected to benefit from the Adaptive Engine Transition Program (AETP), which aims to deliver propulsion systems with improved thrust, fuel efficiency, and thermal management compared to current-generation powerplants. This is especially critical for sustaining stealth and high performance over long distances in the Indo-Pacific theater, where vast ranges demand significant endurance.

Beyond performance enhancements, the F/A-XX will integrate cyber-resilience and electronic warfare systems as core capabilities rather than add-ons. Survivability in the electromagnetic spectrum will be as critical as aerodynamic performance. Integration with space-based assets and undersea platforms is also anticipated, making the F/A-XX a true node in the larger Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2) network the Pentagon is building.

The development of the F/A-XX also carries significant implications for the U.S. defense industrial base. The program represents one of the U.S. Navy's largest future procurement priorities, likely amounting to hundreds of billions of dollars over several decades. Ensuring competitive innovation while maintaining affordability will be central to its success. Moreover, the evolution of the carrier air wing structure will need to adjust to accommodate new operational concepts centered around manned-unmanned integration.

As the F/A-XX progresses through its design and prototyping stages, it will help define the character of future naval warfare. With legacy aircraft approaching obsolescence and adversaries rapidly improving their ability to deny air superiority, the F/A-XX is not merely a replacement for the Super Hornet—it is a keystone in the Navy's strategic vision for power projection in the 21st century. The choices made today in its development will shape U.S. naval aviation for generations to come.
Technology: US-based Anduril launches AI-powered Seabed Sentry to transform subsea defense operations
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In a bold leap forward for autonomous maritime surveillance, Anduril Industries, a defense technology company based in the United States, has announced the expansion of its undersea capabilities with the launch of Seabed Sentry, a modular, AI-powered network of deep-sea sensor nodes designed for persistent, real-time monitoring of subsea environments. This cutting-edge system aims to revolutionize undersea awareness and communications for both military and commercial users by overcoming the longstanding limitations of current seabed monitoring technologies.
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Anduril's Seabed Sentry deployed on the ocean floor as part of a modular, AI-powered undersea sensor network. Designed for persistent surveillance and real-time data transmission, the system supports both military and commercial missions, offering enhanced situational awareness and subsea infrastructure protection. (Picture source: Anduril)

While surface and aerial platforms benefit from clear lines of sight and reliable communication links, the subsea domain remains a challenging frontier due to its vastness and opacity. Conventional subsea sensing systems often operate slowly and in isolation, unable to relay critical data in real time without significant infrastructure investments. Seabed Sentry addresses this challenge with a cable-less, AI-enabled solution that delivers unprecedented situational awareness and subsea connectivity at a fraction of the cost of legacy systems.

Built with superior endurance and adaptability, Seabed Sentry is rated for depths exceeding 500 meters and can operate autonomously for extended durations—ranging from months to even years. Its payload capacity of over 0.5 m³ supports a wide array of mission-specific sensor packages. The system is modular and reusable, reducing lifecycle costs by enabling recovery, cleaning, recharging, and redeployment.

Each Seabed Sentry node functions as an intelligent edge processor, using Anduril’s proprietary Lattice AI software platform to sense, process, and transmit critical data in real time. These mobile nodes can be deployed by Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) to form dynamic defense grids that are highly responsive and scalable.

Designed with open systems architecture, Seabed Sentry supports seamless integration of both Anduril-native and third-party payloads. It can be rapidly customized for a variety of missions, including seabed surveys and marine life pattern monitoring, port and critical infrastructure protection, anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW), underwater domain awareness, and maritime kill chain support. A key enabler of this capability is Ultra Maritime’s Sea Spear, integrated into Seabed Sentry to deliver long-range sensing capabilities in remote and contested underwater environments.

Seabed Sentry is part of a larger ecosystem that includes Anduril’s Dive family of large and extra-large autonomous submarines. Together, they create an interconnected network that enables operators to sense, analyze, and act across the undersea battlespace with unprecedented speed and efficiency.

As demand grows for scalable undersea surveillance solutions, Anduril has ramped up investments in production infrastructure to ensure timely delivery and deployment of Seabed Sentry units. These facilities will enable mass production, supporting urgent customer needs without the delays associated with bespoke manufacturing.

With the global strategic landscape shifting and maritime domains becoming increasingly contested, control over the seafloor—and the ability to monitor and secure key underwater infrastructure—has emerged as a critical priority. Seabed Sentry represents a fundamental shift in how nations can achieve persistent undersea dominance with smart, scalable, and cost-effective systems.

Through its innovative design and integration with broader autonomous systems, Seabed Sentry solidifies Anduril’s position at the forefront of next-generation maritime defense technology. As the race for undersea superiority intensifies, Seabed Sentry offers a robust and forward-looking solution for modern navies and commercial operators alike.