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Defence

↓ (W44 ‘26 · Oct 26–Nov 1)

Sunday, Nov 1

4 stories
01Zone Militaire2026-11-01

French Directorate General of Armament launches tender to industrialize its kamikaze naval drone 'SMOKERS' (opens in a new tab)

The French Directorate General of Armament (DGA) has initiated a tender to industrialize its "SMOKERS" kamikaze naval drone. This procurement process aims to transition the drone from development to mass production. The move reflects France's focus on advancing unmanned naval warfare capabilities. No further technical or operational details were provided in the announcement.

Also covered by 3 other sources
02saildrone2026-11-01

Saildrone Wins MUSV Protest in the US Court of Federal Claims (opens in a new tab)

The US Court of Federal Claims ruled in favor of Saildrone, overturning the Navy’s decision to exclude the company from the Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel (MUSV) competition. The court found Saildrone was unlawfully deemed non-compliant and ordered the Navy to reevaluate its proposal under the same criteria as other competitors. Until reevaluation, the Navy cannot allocate more than $1.5 billion of the $2.1 billion program budget. Saildrone argued its proposal met all requirements, while the court determined the Navy applied arbitrary standards.

Also covered by 3 other sources
03聯合新聞網2026-11-01

Military’s 29.6 billion procurement project to tender by year-end; Taiwanese and US firms compete for unmanned boat orders (opens in a new tab)

Taiwan’s military plans to tender a NT$29.6 billion project for 1,320 small unmanned suicide boats by year-end, drawing competition from Taiwanese and U.S. firms. U.S. defense contractors like Shield AI, Havoc, and MARTAC are partnering with Taiwanese companies such as Thunder Tiger and CSBC to bid, focusing on local manufacturing and technology integration. Demonstrations and exhibitions in Taiwan this week, including sea trials and MOU signings, highlight collaboration on autonomous systems and supply chain development. The project aims to combine U.S. tech with Taiwan’s precision manufacturing and shipbuilding capabilities.

Also covered by 1 other source
04搜狐网2026-11-01

Three unmanned boats surround cargo ship as Black Sea insurance premiums set to rise (opens in a new tab)

Three unmanned boats surrounded a cargo ship in the Black Sea, signaling heightened maritime security risks. This incident is expected to drive up insurance premiums for vessels operating in the region. The event reflects growing concerns over safety and stability in Black Sea shipping routes. No further details on the cargo ship or the unmanned boats' origins were provided.

Saturday, Oct 31

6 stories
05The Australian Naval Institute2026-10-31

Australia’s enduring uncrewed vessel (opens in a new tab)

Australia is developing a long-term uncrewed vessel program. The initiative focuses on advancing autonomous maritime technology for naval operations. Details highlight its strategic importance for future defense capabilities. The project aims to enhance surveillance and operational efficiency.

07Marine Insight2026-10-31

China Achieves First Drone Takeoff And Landing Aboard An Amphibious Assault Ship (opens in a new tab)

China successfully conducted the first drone takeoff and landing from its amphibious assault ship, the *Sichuan*, using the GJ-21 strike and reconnaissance drone. This milestone highlights the Chinese navy’s capability to operate fixed-wing stealth drones from sea-based platforms, marking progress in its amphibious assault ship program. The GJ-21, a cost-effective and reusable drone, can carry weapons and glide-guided bombs, enhancing firepower efficiency. The *Sichuan*, a Type 076-class ship with electromagnetic catapults, supports both drones and helicopters and recently completed sea trials in undisclosed locations.

Also covered by 1 other source
08香港012026-10-31

Taiwan military invests 29.6 billion in 1,320 unmanned boats—can 'foreign brains on Taiwanese ships' deliver? (opens in a new tab)

Taiwan's military is investing 29.6 billion Taiwanese dollars to purchase 1,320 unmanned boats. The strategy involves integrating foreign-developed technology with domestically built vessels, raising questions about effectiveness. The initiative aims to bolster defense capabilities, particularly in potential maritime conflicts. The article examines whether this approach can deliver the intended military advantages.

09搜狐网2026-10-31

French aircraft warned 40 minutes early, but Bulgaria failed to stop unmanned boats, leaving NATO cornered (opens in a new tab)

A French aircraft detected and warned NATO forces 40 minutes in advance about approaching unmanned boats, but Bulgaria failed to intercept them. The incident left NATO in a vulnerable position, highlighting gaps in regional defense coordination. The article suggests the unmanned vessels posed a significant threat despite early detection. No further operational details or outcomes were provided.

10Newpost.gr2026-10-31

New era in the Aegean: Greek Fleet upgrades with 12 frigates and unmanned vessels (opens in a new tab)

The Greek Navy is entering a new phase with upgrades including 12 frigates and unmanned vessels. This modernization aims to enhance capabilities in the Aegean Sea. The initiative reflects a strategic shift in Greece’s naval defense. No specific details on timelines or operational deployment were provided.

Friday, Oct 30

6 stories
11파이낸셜뉴스2026-10-30

Iran says US unmanned surface vessel destroyed and tankers hit in Hormuz as tensions rise amid talks to end the war (opens in a new tab)

On October 30, 2026, Iran reported the destruction of a U.S. unmanned surface vessel and attacks on tankers in the Strait of Hormuz. These incidents occurred amid rising tensions while negotiations to end the ongoing war were underway. The article does not specify the parties responsible for the attacks. The situation escalates concerns over maritime security in the region.

Also covered by 11 other sources
12Unmanned Systems Technology2026-10-30

Scaling Autonomous Naval Fleets With Tactical Surface Vessels (opens in a new tab)

The article discusses strategies for expanding autonomous naval fleets using tactical surface vessels. It focuses on the integration and deployment of unmanned systems in naval operations. The text highlights technological and operational considerations for scaling these fleets. No specific methods or results are detailed beyond the general concept.

13SlashGear2026-10-30

The US Navy's Using Wall-Crawling Robots To Help With Tricky Ship Repairs (opens in a new tab)

The US Navy is employing wall-crawling robots to assist with complex ship repairs. These robots are designed to navigate and perform tasks on vertical and inverted surfaces, addressing challenging maintenance areas. The technology aims to improve efficiency and safety in ship repair operations. No specific models or detailed outcomes are mentioned in the report.

14Мілітарний2026-10-30

Unknown Russian USV Attacks Container Ship That Sinks in Bulgarian Waters (opens in a new tab)

An unidentified Russian unmanned surface vessel (USV) attacked a container ship in Bulgarian waters, causing it to sink on October 30, 2026. The incident occurred without prior warning, and details about the vessel or its operators remain unclear. Bulgarian authorities are investigating the attack, which marks a rare maritime security breach in the region. No casualties were reported at the time of publication.

15Naval Today2026-10-30

Australia approves SEASAT Lightfish for naval operations (opens in a new tab)

Australia approved the SEASAT Lightfish autonomous surface vessel for naval operations, issuing its first Naval Permit to Operate under the Australian Naval Seaworthiness Regulation (ANSR) 307. The permit allows the vessel to participate in Exercise RIMPAC 2026 under specific safety conditions and risk controls. The approval followed a collaborative assessment by the Australian Naval Seaworthiness Authority and other defense stakeholders. It establishes a regulatory framework for integrating new maritime technologies into defense operations while ensuring safety oversight.

16华人头条2026-10-30

Israeli ZIM-operated container ship sunk in Black Sea after unmanned boat attack, all crew safely rescued (opens in a new tab)

A ZIM-operated Israeli container ship sank in the Black Sea after an unmanned boat attack. The incident occurred in 2026, with no casualties reported. All crew members were safely rescued following the attack. The vessel was targeted amid ongoing regional tensions.

Thursday, Oct 29

6 stories
17Data Portuaria2026-10-29

Havoc and CSBC Corporation to showcase autonomous maritime systems at MATURE Taiwan 2026 (opens in a new tab)

Havoc and CSBC Corporation will jointly present autonomous maritime systems at the MATURE Taiwan 2026 event. The showcase aims to highlight advancements in uncrewed vessel technology. The collaboration focuses on demonstrating capabilities in autonomous navigation and operations. The event is scheduled for 2026.

Also covered by 4 other sources
18Börse Express2026-10-29

Renk Group stock: Oesterlen aims for unmanned ships (opens in a new tab)

Renk Group, led by CEO Susanne Oesterlen, is focusing on developing technology for unmanned ships. The company aims to advance automation in maritime operations. This initiative is part of Renk Group’s broader strategy to innovate in defense and industrial sectors. The move reflects growing industry trends toward autonomous shipping solutions.

19UK Defence Journal2026-10-29

Proteus demonstrator to get American autonomy software (opens in a new tab)

Leonardo will integrate Shield AI’s Hivemind autonomy software into the Proteus uncrewed rotorcraft, developed with the Royal Navy and UK Defence Innovation, to enable mission-specific capabilities like anti-submarine warfare and logistics. The agreement allows Leonardo’s engineers to tailor and sustain the software independently, avoiding reliance on foreign suppliers. Proteus, a modular vertical take-off demonstrator, supports the Royal Navy’s 2040 aviation strategy by reducing crewed helicopter workloads. The collaboration aims to expand autonomous solutions across Leonardo’s rotary-wing portfolio.

Also covered by 1 other source
20Naval News2026-10-29

French Navy and DGA Evaluate Exail DriX O-16 USV in the Mediterranean (opens in a new tab)

The French Navy and Directorate General of Armaments (DGA) conducted evaluations of the Exail DriX O-16 unmanned surface vessel (USV) in the Mediterranean. The trials assessed the USV’s performance and operational capabilities. The DriX O-16 is designed for maritime surveillance, hydrography, and oceanography missions. No specific outcomes or results of the evaluation were detailed.

21Investor's Business Daily on MSN2026-10-29

Huntington Ingalls rallies. Shipbuilding, sea drone demand drives Q3 beat (opens in a new tab)

Huntington Ingalls raised its shipbuilding revenue forecast after strong third-quarter results driven by demand. The company’s stock surged, moving above its key moving average. Increased demand for ships and sea drones contributed to the quarterly performance. The outlook improvement reflects ongoing market strength in defense and maritime sectors.

22Marine Insight2026-10-29

Turkey’s 60,000-ton Largest Warship Might Also Be The First Carrier To Combine Unmanned Systems (opens in a new tab)

Turkey is constructing a 60,000-ton aircraft carrier, named MUGEM, designed to be the first to integrate unmanned systems, including drones, unmanned ships, and underwater vehicles. The carrier, expected to be commissioned by 2032, will measure 285 meters long, accommodate 2,500 crew members, and feature a short takeoff but arrested recovery system. Defense analysts caution that launching and recovering unmanned systems from a carrier may expose it to risks, as such tasks are typically handled by frigates or amphibious ships. The carrier will operate alongside destroyers, submarines, and frigates, equipped with advanced air defense and over 50 aircraft, including manned and unmanned variants.

Wednesday, Oct 28

6 stories
23Morningstar2026-10-28

HII Celebrates ROMULUS Unmanned Surface Vessel Production Progress for U.S. Navy in Louisiana (opens in a new tab)

HII marked progress in producing the ROMULUS unmanned surface vessel for the U.S. Navy at its Louisiana facility. The event highlighted advancements in manufacturing the autonomous ship. ROMULUS is part of the Navy’s effort to expand unmanned maritime capabilities. The milestone reflects ongoing development in naval automation technology.

Also covered by 3 other sources
24PR Newswire2026-10-28

Barzan Holdings Joint Venture with Rheinmetall AG, Rheinmetal Barzan Advanced Technologies (RBAT), and Shield AI to advance autonomy on Qatari Unmanned Surface Vessels (USV) (opens in a new tab)

Barzan Holdings, Rheinmetall AG, Rheinmetall Barzan Advanced Technologies (RBAT), and Shield AI formed a joint venture to enhance autonomy for Qatari Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs). The collaboration aims to integrate advanced autonomous technologies into Qatar’s naval capabilities. The partnership was announced on October 28, 2026. No specific technical details or outcomes were disclosed in the announcement.

Also covered by 1 other source
25vosactualites.com2026-10-28

1 nautical mile drift in 3 hours without GPS: Exail’s Breton bet for naval drones (opens in a new tab)

Exail, a Breton company, has developed a navigation system for naval drones that limits drift to just 1 nautical mile over 3 hours without relying on GPS. The technology aims to enhance the autonomy and reliability of unmanned maritime vehicles. This advancement targets naval applications where GPS signals may be unavailable or compromised. The system represents a strategic bet for Exail in the growing drone market.

26더파워2026-10-28

West Sea Coast Guard discusses maritime traffic safety in the southwest sea region… Exploring responses to AI and autonomous navigation (opens in a new tab)

The West Sea Coast Guard held discussions on maritime traffic safety in the southwest sea region. The meeting focused on exploring responses to advancements in AI and autonomous navigation technologies. Officials aimed to address potential challenges and opportunities these innovations present for maritime operations. No specific solutions or outcomes were detailed.

28GlobeNewswire2026-10-28

Unmanned Sea Systems Global Market Report 2026 | BAE (opens in a new tab)

The *Unmanned Sea Systems Global Market Report 2026* by BAE, published by GlobeNewswire, analyzes trends and projections for the unmanned maritime systems market. The report covers growth drivers, key players, and regional market dynamics through 2026. It provides insights into technological advancements and demand across defense, commercial, and research sectors. No specific data or findings are detailed in the provided text.

Tuesday, Oct 27

8 stories
29Independent Newspaper Nigeria2026-10-27

President Tinubu Unveils Arridex Group’s ADX-Barra 200 Autonomous Vessel At AFRIDEX 2026 (opens in a new tab)

President Tinubu unveiled the ADX-Barra 200, an autonomous vessel developed by Arridex Group, during AFRIDEX 2026. The event showcased the vessel as part of Nigeria’s advancements in maritime technology. The ADX-Barra 200 is designed for autonomous operations in the shipping and logistics sector. The launch highlights efforts to modernize Nigeria’s maritime infrastructure.

Also covered by 7 other sources
30Libre.gr2026-10-27

Reuters: Greek-owned ship hit by maritime drones in the Black Sea (opens in a new tab)

A Greek-owned ship was struck by maritime drones in the Black Sea. The incident was reported by Reuters and published by Libre.gr on October 27, 2026. No further details about the attack, such as casualties or damage, were provided in the report. The article does not specify the perpetrators or motives behind the strike.

Also covered by 28 other sources
31KLFY2026-10-27

Navy contract brings stability to New Iberia shipyard (opens in a new tab)

A U.S. Navy contract has secured steady work for Breaux Brothers Shipyard in New Iberia by involving it in the construction of unmanned vessels. Governor Jeff Landry highlighted the project’s potential to create lasting job opportunities for the region. The initiative aims to bring economic stability to the shipyard and local workforce. No specific contract details or timelines were provided.

32Good News Today2026-10-27

Indian Navy: Indigenous drone boat Matangi, Karva Chauth preparations, and Surat’s golden chariot (opens in a new tab)

The Indian Navy introduced the indigenous drone boat *Matangi* as part of its technological advancements. Preparations for *Karva Chauth* were highlighted, reflecting cultural activities within the Navy. Additionally, the article mentioned *Surat’s golden chariot*, linking it to regional traditions or events. The focus was on both defense innovation and naval community engagements.

33Naval Today2026-10-27

Five Arleigh Burke-class destroyers to get AI vessel detection tech (opens in a new tab)

The US Navy awarded Applied Intuition a contract to install an AI-powered vessel detection system, the Intelligent Perception System (IPS), on five Arleigh Burke-class destroyers. IPS uses shipboard cameras and infrared sensors to detect, track, and classify vessels in real time, enhancing situational awareness for bridge crews and combat centers. The system builds on earlier data collection efforts and supports over-the-air updates, operational data sharing, and future AI applications. It also generates machine-readable records to improve intelligence analysis and reduce reliance on manual logs.

Also covered by 1 other source
34新唐人電視台2026-10-27

Financial News: Ukraine war’s unmanned boats to debut in Taiwan, CSBC showcases transoceanic remote swarm control (opens in a new tab)

The article reports that unmanned boats developed during the Ukraine war will be introduced in Taiwan. Taiwan’s CSBC Corporation demonstrated the ability to remotely control a swarm of these vessels across oceans. The technology showcases advancements in long-distance, autonomous naval operations. The move highlights growing defense collaborations between Taiwan and international partners.

35National Defense Magazine2026-10-27

JUST IN: Iran War Teaching Navy to Prioritize Sustainment, EW for Uncrewed Systems (opens in a new tab)

The U.S. Navy is adjusting its approach to uncrewed systems due to lessons from the Iran conflict. It is now prioritizing sustainment—ensuring long-term maintenance and logistics—and electronic warfare (EW) capabilities. These changes aim to improve reliability and resilience in contested environments. The war has highlighted gaps in current uncrewed system strategies.

36Naval Today2026-10-27

Exail introduces Marins M1 INS for small and uncrewed naval platforms (opens in a new tab)

Exail launched the Marins M1, a compact inertial navigation system (INS) for small naval platforms like RHIBs, patrol boats, USVs, and UUVs. Designed for size, weight, power, and cost constraints, it uses fiber optic gyroscope (FOG) technology to maintain accuracy in GNSS-denied environments, with a position drift of 1 nautical mile after 3 hours. The system provides reliable position, heading, roll, and pitch data for smaller or uncrewed vessels. Exail aims to make high-performance navigation accessible to platforms with limited space and budget.

Monday, Oct 26

7 stories
37Sabah2026-10-26

Unmanned maritime vehicle PİRANA destroys surface target (opens in a new tab)

The unmanned maritime vehicle PİRANA successfully destroyed a surface target. The event was reported by Sabah on October 26, 2026. No additional details about the target, location, or operational specifics were provided. The achievement marks a milestone in the deployment of autonomous naval systems.

38Army Recognition2026-10-26

British Navy Demonstrates Drone Boat Use in U.S. to Expand Future Naval Strike Operations. (opens in a new tab)

The British Royal Navy demonstrated the Kraken K3 unmanned surface vessel launching three Short-Range Loitering Munition-10 quadcopters during the U.S.-led AUKUS Maritime Big Play Pacific event in San Diego on October 20, 2026. The test showcased how uncrewed boats could deploy aerial drones for reconnaissance or other missions without risking crewed ships. The demonstration aligns with Britain’s £12.3 million Project Beehive, which includes 20 Kraken vessels for future naval operations. While the launch proved system integration, it did not confirm live-strike capabilities or autonomous target engagement.

39Marine Insight2026-10-26

US Navy’s Largest Uncrewed Submarine Can Travel 6,500 Nautical Miles Without a Support Ship (opens in a new tab)

The U.S. Navy’s Orca XLUUV, its largest uncrewed submarine, completed a 1,000+ nautical mile voyage in the eastern Pacific in July 2026, marking the longest distance traveled by an XLUUV-class system. Designed for a 6,500 nautical mile range, the diesel-electric vessel supports missions like surveillance, mine warfare, and reconnaissance, operating mostly submerged with rare battery recharges. Despite an $885 million investment and eight years of development, the program faces delays, technical challenges, and uncertainty about becoming an official program of record. Five prototypes are expected by late 2026, though autonomy, battery endurance, and software modifications remain key hurdles.

40STARTUPPER2026-10-26

Two Delian sea kamikaze drones deployed in the Aegean (opens in a new tab)

Two Delian sea kamikaze drones were deployed in the Aegean Sea. The drones, described as unmanned suicide vessels, mark a new development in maritime defense or attack capabilities. The deployment was reported by STARTUPPER, though specific operational details or objectives were not disclosed. The announcement was made on October 26, 2026.

41Jagran2026-10-26

India asserts dominance at sea: Navy receives indigenous drone boat, joins elite club (opens in a new tab)

India's Navy received an indigenously developed drone boat, marking its entry into an elite group of nations with such technology. The achievement highlights India's growing self-reliance in defense manufacturing. This advancement strengthens the country's naval capabilities and maritime dominance. The drone boat is expected to enhance surveillance and operational efficiency.

Also covered by 2 other sources
42Janes2026-10-26

Special report: Euroguard production design to diverge from demonstrator (opens in a new tab)

The Euroguard production vessel will differ significantly from its 45 m demonstrator, likely exceeding 60 m in length to accommodate more payload, sensors, and weapons. It may use a steel and aluminium hull instead of all-aluminium construction, improving durability but potentially increasing weight. These changes aim to enhance capability and resilience while balancing affordability and versatility. The €95 million European Defence Fund programme involves 28 organizations across 10 European countries.

43Defense Daily2026-10-26

CNO Downplays Near Term Unmanned Hybrid Fleet, Says Concept Of Deployment Too Fragile (opens in a new tab)

The Navy’s Chief of Naval Operations, Adm. Daryl Caudle, stated that unmanned systems are not yet ready to create a fully hybrid fleet due to fragile deployment concepts. He emphasized unmanned systems, containerization, and modularity as key components of a "hedge force" to address operational challenges. The article also noted political shifts in Congress and unrelated defense budget and policy discussions. No immediate integration of unmanned forces into the fleet was projected.

Still in the news

2 earlier stories

Stories first reported in an earlier week that got new coverage this week.

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