

Today In Defense
Last Updated: Thursday, Oct. 23, 2025, 7:17 AM PDT
2025-10-23T07:17:32.081676-07:00 2025-10-23T07:17:32.081676-07:00 (2025-10-23T07:17:32.081676-07:00)

France’s THUNDART long‑range rocket artillery to undergo demonstration firings in mid‑2026
By defence-industry.eu: MBDA and Safran Electronics & Defense have announced that demonstration firings of the new THUNDART artillery system are scheduled for mid-2026.

Lockheed Martin Backs Venus to Advance Rotating Detonation Engines for Hypersonic Flight
By Aviation Week: As interest grows in rotating detonation engines for hypersonic flight, a startup specialist in the tech says it will receive backing from Lockheed Martin.

Thales posts 9% higher 9-month sales and orders, keeps targets
By Reuters: Aerospace group Thales reaffirmed financial targets on Thursday as it posted higher than expected nine-month revenues and new orders, led by defence spending and demand for avionics.

Northrop Grumman Meets Sentinel Milestones Amid Comprehensive Program Restructuring
By Air & Space Forces Mag: Northrop Grumman says it is still checking off milestones on the Sentinel ICBM even as the entire program is restructured.

Royal Air Force Chief Warns GCAP Design Must Embed Full‑Spectrum Low‑Observability and Ultra‑Long Range — Raising Significant Design Challenges
By Aviation Week: The Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) design needs to have “full-spectrum” low-observability and ultra-long range built in, the RAF's programs head says.
Ukraine and Sweden sign defence agreement for up to 150 Saab Gripen fighters, deliveries possible within three years
By aerospaceglobalnews.com: Ukraine and Sweden have signed a landmark defence agreement that could see up to 150 Saab Gripen fighters delivered in the coming years.

France Plans Expansion of Rafale Fleet to 286 Aircraft Under 2026 Defense Budget
By Air Data News: The French Ministry of the Armed Forces intends to expand its Rafale fighter fleet by 61 aircraft under the 2026 defense budget, bringing the total to 286.