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Americas

Smartshooter has secured a $13-million contract to deliver its SMASH 2000L advanced fire control solutions for the US Army. The devices, also called the SMASH 3000s, are the company’s lightest handheld fire control product and use artificial intelligence, computer vision, and advanced tracking algorithms to assist users, particularly rifle units, in assault operations. It measures 164 millimeters (6 inches) long, weighs 740 grams (1.6 pounds), and is powered by a rechargeable Lithium-ion battery pack for up to 72 hours of assisted shots.

Saab has signed a contract to provide the Canadian Armed Forces with the Carl-Gustaf M4 man-portable, multi-role weapon system. The $5.6-million deal includes an unspecified number of M4 units, as well as the Swedish firm’s Fire Control Device 558. Delivery is set to be completed by March 2027.

Middle East & Africa

The Israeli military last week said it had intercepted about 40 unmanned aerial vehicles by high-power laser systems in the wider Gaza war, a first in a combat engagement. The majority of interceptions were of Hezbollah UAVs from Israel’s Northern border, along with other unspecified battle arenas, the government said. The systems were operated by the Israeli Air Force’s new tactical air defense battalion, which was attached to the IDF’s Northern Command during the war.

Europe

HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has signed an agreement with the Portuguese Navy to explore the joint development of futuristic small submarines. Signed at the recent Marine Defense Exhibition 2025 (MADEX) in Singapore, the agreement is part of a potential strategic partnership that includes ship maintenance, repair, and overhaul, according to South Korean daily Chosun.

Asia-Pacific

Pakistan is considering acquiring China’s latest HQ-19 missile defense system following its four-day conflict with India in May. The system is being planned for procurement along with 40 Chinese-made J-35A stealth fighters, which are expected to be inducted from the first quarter of 2026, Kuala Lumpur-based Defence Security Asia reported, citing sources. Unveiled in November 2024, the HQ-19 is a ballistic missile defense system with an estimated range of 3,000 kilometers.

Honeywell has proposed its advanced F124 turbofan engine for a pair of future programs of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, intending to expand its presence in Japan’s defense market. The engine’s proposed applications are for the replacement of the existing T-4 trainer aircraft and the future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program. “Japan’s defense modernization is accelerating, and Honeywell is actively engaging to support this transformation with the proven capabilities of the F124 engine,” said Sathesh Ramiah, Honeywell Vice President for Defense in Asia Pacific.

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