US Conducts Successful First Hypersonic Test Bed Flight Amid Rising Tensions with China and Russia

 The US Missile Defense Agency (MDA) has achieved a significant milestone in its hypersonic program with the successful completion of the first flight of its Hypersonic Test Bed (HTB). Designed as a unified platform for all hypersonic experiments, the HTB aims to advance the US's hypersonic capabilities.

During the HTB-1 test, the vehicle achieved hypersonic flight, allowing for the collection of valuable data from various internal and external experiments. MDA Director Lt. Gen. Heath Collins described the test as a major success, marking the beginning of a cost-effective platform for conducting hypersonic experiments. "HTB-1 represents a significant step forward in hypersonic testing capability," Collins stated.

The MDA highlighted that the HTB will be crucial in accelerating the development and deployment of hypersonic technologies, enhancing the US's ability to conduct frequent and varied tests. This capability is essential for advancing state-of-the-art technologies that can reliably operate in hypersonic flight conditions, according to Collins.

Collaborating with numerous partners, the MDA aims to use data from these tests to develop advanced capabilities for a comprehensive hypersonic defense system. As the leading agency for hypersonic defense, the MDA is working to outpace the threats posed by the hypersonic advancements of Russia and China.

Both Russia and China have developed multiple hypersonic weapons, placing the US in a position to catch up. The MDA's hypersonic test bed joins a growing array of high-speed flight test devices, providing a versatile platform for various hypersonic experiments. This includes contributions from the Defense Innovation Unit's Hypersonic and High-Cadence Airborne Testing Capabilities program and the Test Resource Management Center's Multi-Service Advanced Capability Hypersonic Test Bed.

While the MDA has not disclosed details about the creators of the HTB, the agency announced that advanced missile tracking satellites captured their first images of the hypersonic flight test. Although the departure time from Wallops Island, Virginia, was not revealed, the agency confirmed that initial reports showed successful data collection from the sensors.

Lt. Gen. Collins mentioned that this first calibration flight is a precursor to another test bed launch later this year. The Hypersonic and Ballistic Tracking Space Sensors (HBTSS) satellites, part of the Space Development Agency's constellation, played a crucial role in tracking the hypersonic flight. These sensors are designed to detect and monitor hypersonic weapons traveling at speeds of Mach 5 or greater.

Currently, there are ten missile-tracking satellites in space, shared between the MDA and the Space Development Agency (SDA). Despite the different development projects for these sensors, the HBTSS medium-field-of-view sensor will be integrated into future SDA spacecraft iterations, enhancing the ability to track dim targets and relay data to interceptors.

Eventually, a constellation of 100 satellites will provide global coverage for advanced missile launches. However, the current limited fleet offers restricted coverage, necessitating careful coordination of satellite monitoring opportunities to ensure they are positioned over test venues and hotspots worldwide.

Can Russia's Navy Achieve its Goal of 50 New Ships in 2024?

 

The Russian Navy is projected to receive around 50 ships of various classes this year, a significant increase from the 32 delivered last year, as stated by the deputy minister of industry and trade. This announcement comes amid ongoing military actions in Ukraine, where Ukrainian forces have damaged or destroyed several Russian naval vessels.

In a June 9 interview with state-owned Zvezda TV, Deputy Minister Viktor Yevtukhov shared this forecast. Over the past decade, the Ministry of Industry and Trade reports that the Navy has received 40 surface ships and 24 submarines.

In 2023, the Navy received three submarines: the Borei-A-class Emperor Alexander III, the Yasen-class Krasnoyarsk, and the Kilo-class Mozhaysk. Additionally, the Navy acquired seven surface ships: the frigate Admiral Golovko, corvettes Merkury and Rezkiy, missile ships Cyclone and Naro-Fominsk, the minesweeper Lev Chernavin, and the refurbished frigate Neustrashimy.

For this year, the Navy is expected to receive four submarines and 12 surface ships, along with a variety of support vessels such as tug boats, bulk carriers, training vessels, hydrographic vessels, rescue ships, supply vessels, and other small boats, according to Pavel Luzin from the Washington-based Center for European Policy Analysis.

Yevtukhov attributed the anticipated delivery surge to successful efforts in finding replacements for components blocked by international sanctions. Sergey Smyslov, an independent analyst with experience in Russia’s defense sector, noted that domestic organizations are now producing these substitute components. While these replacements may not be of the highest quality and require additional development time, they meet the minimum necessary requirements.

However, Luzin pointed out that using outdated or low-quality technology affects the reliability of the final products. Despite this, a source in Russia’s naval industry mentioned that the Defence Ministry is generally satisfied with submarine construction but highlighted persistent issues with surface ship production, including frequent delivery delays.

Emma Rayman, a politician from St. Petersburg, cited financial constraints as a major problem affecting the speed and scale of naval construction. For instance, the Severnaya Verf shipyard's transfer of the frigate Admiral Isakov, originally scheduled for 2022, is now delayed to December 2025. Similarly, the corvette Provorny, initially expected by the end of 2022, is now slated for 2025 due to fire damage. Two Steregushchiy-class corvettes expected in 2018 saw only one delivered in 2023.

Other shipyards have also faced setbacks. Admiralty Shipyards, expected to deliver a patrol ship in 2020, now plans to complete it this year. Yantar Shipyard’s delivery of the large landing ships Vladimir Andreev and Vasily Trushin, initially set for 2023-2024, has been postponed to 2025-2026. Vostochnaya Shipyard’s construction of two Karakurt-class corvettes and a small tanker has been taken over by Amur Shipbuilding Plant due to financial issues.

Rayman and Luzin both noted a shortage of engineers and specialists in the domestic shipbuilding industry, further hindering construction efforts and leaving a lack of personnel to crew the ships.

Philippines Establishes First BrahMos Missile Base to Bolster South China Sea Defense

 

The Philippines has begun constructing its first BrahMos anti-ship missile base, strategically positioned at a naval installation facing the South China Sea. This development follows the country’s 2022 order of Indian supersonic cruise missiles, a key component of its defense modernization program aimed at updating its military capabilities amidst regional tensions with China. This $375 million deal under the Philippine Navy’s Shore-Based Anti-Ship Missile Acquisition Project includes three BrahMos missile batteries and technical support, marking the first international sale of this missile system and sparking interest from other nations like Vietnam and Indonesia.

Satellite images have revealed the construction of the BrahMos site at Philippine Naval Station Leovigildo Gantioqui in Zambales, Western Luzon. The images show new infrastructure being built on land previously used for amphibious assault and coastal defense training, with only a shed for amphibious vehicles existing before the construction began in August 2022. By May 2024, the site features buildings similar to those at Indian BrahMos bases, including a high-bay facility for missile maintenance and testing, and a magazine bunker for storage. The Philippine base is smaller, reflecting the reduced capacity of the BrahMos systems ordered by Manila, which have two missiles per launcher compared to three on Indian launchers.

Construction continues on additional structures likely intended to house the missile launchers and other command and control facilities. While missile deliveries began in April, it’s unclear if the transporter-erector-launchers have arrived. The mobile BrahMos system allows for flexible deployment, enabling batteries to relocate and avoid enemy counterstrikes while striking targets up to 300 kilometers away, including the disputed Scarborough Shoal occupied by China.

Another potential BrahMos deployment site is Camp Cape Bojeador in Burgos, Ilocos Norte, home to the Philippine Marine Corps 4th Marine Brigade. Development plans here show structures similar to those at the Zambales base, suggesting future coastal defense deployments that would cover the Luzon Strait. The Coastal Defense Regiment, operating the BrahMos, has also received land donations in Lubang and Calayan, both strategic locations for coastal defense.

Former Philippine Secretary of National Defense Delfin Lorenzana emphasized BrahMos’ deterrent capabilities in defending Philippine sovereignty, particularly in the West Philippine Sea. The Philippine Army is also considering procuring BrahMos and HIMARS systems in the next phase of military modernization, aiming to deploy more missile batteries for coastal defense. To support this high-end system, the Philippines has collaborated with the U.S. for training in modern systems and tactics, practicing combined networks to identify and strike maritime targets effectively.

Brazil Considers F-16 Purchase Amid Economic Constraints on Expanding Gripen Fleet

 Brazil is in discussions with the U.S. to potentially acquire 24 Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcons, following Argentina's recent deal for used F-16 fighters. A top Brazilian official informed Janes in June that the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) aims to make a decision by the end of 2024. While this has not been confirmed by BulgarianMilitary.com, it aligns with the FAB’s strategy to replace its aging aircraft.

This development is unexpected, given Brazil’s 2014 agreement with Swedish company Saab for 36 Gripen E/F fighters, valued at $5.04 billion, with deliveries expected by 2027. This contract was expanded in 2022 to include four additional jets, bringing the total to 40.

Defense Minister José Múcio, speaking at the LAAD Defense and Security event in Rio de Janeiro, mentioned that the FAB needs more Gripen fighters and is considering this option. However, economic constraints are pushing the FAB to look for more cost-effective alternatives to replace its old Mirage and AMX jets. The FAB originally planned to nearly double its Gripen fleet but is now considering cheaper options due to financial limitations.

With the AMX fleet scheduled to retire by the end of 2025 and not enough Gripens to cover the gap, the FAB is exploring the acquisition of used F-16s. Brazil previously attempted to buy F-16s from the U.S. in the early 2000s, but the deal fell through. In 2002, the U.S. offered Brazil advanced F-16s along with AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missiles, the first such offer to a Latin American country.

At that time, the Pentagon’s policy was to avoid introducing advanced technology to the region to prevent military imbalances and arms races. However, the offer was made in response to Peru acquiring Russian BVRAAMs. Brazil, looking to update its Mirage III jets, considered several options, including the Dassault Rafale, Boeing’s F/A-18 Super Hornet, and Saab’s Gripen NG, ultimately opting against the F-16.

The discussion of acquiring second-hand F-16s has resurfaced. Despite lacking the advanced features of the Gripen-E/F, the F-16 remains a proven and versatile fighter jet, widely used globally.

The Gripen E/F offers advanced avionics, sensor fusion technology, and a state-of-the-art electronic warfare suite, providing superior situational awareness and threat detection capabilities compared to older F-16 models. Its AESA radar offers greater range, better target tracking, and improved resistance to jamming. The Gripen E/F also boasts better fuel efficiency, extended range, and a modern digital cockpit with enhanced pilot interfaces, surpassing the older F-16 designs.

Additionally, the Gripen E/F’s open architecture design allows for easier upgrades and integration of new technologies, ensuring it remains at the forefront of advancements in avionics, weapons systems, and software, a flexibility not as prevalent in older F-16 models.

Russia's A-100 Premier AWACS Completes Successful Test Flights, Gears Up for Serial Production

 

Footage has emerged online showcasing the new Russian long-range radar detection and control aircraft, the A-100 Premier, during its test flights. Reports indicate that the experimental prototype of the A-100 Premier AWACS is nearing the final stages of its testing process.

The prototype is undergoing rigorous full-scale testing for its airborne long-range radar detection system under near-combat conditions. Once these tests are successfully completed, serial production of the aircraft is expected to begin.

The A-100 Premier, equipped with the advanced "Premier" radar system, is based on the upgraded Il-76MD-90A. Developed in 2014 by the Taganrog Aviation Scientific and Technical Complex in collaboration with NGO Vega-M, part of the state corporation Ruselectronica, this aircraft is set to replace the aging A-50 line of AWACS aircraft.

The state-of-the-art A-100 radar system features an active phased array antenna and capabilities in radio-electronic reconnaissance. It includes terminals for secure, stable communication with Russian fighters and anti-aircraft missile systems, vital for target designation across air, ground, and surface targets.

Beyond radar capabilities, the A-100 can receive data from space satellites and control drones, relaying this information to both ground and airborne weapons. It also integrates seamlessly with ground reconnaissance systems like long-range radar, enhancing situational awareness.

Designed as a versatile airborne command center, the A-100 Premier can detect and track up to 350 air, sea, and ground targets simultaneously at distances up to 650 km. It boasts an impressive range of about 5,000 kilometers and can remain airborne for over 10 hours without refueling.

The A-100LL flying laboratory, based on the standard A-50 aircraft, made its first flight in October 2016. By November 2017, the first prototype of the A-100 Premier, developed from the Il-76MD-90A, took to the skies. This prototype's testing was intended to pave the way for mass production, which has been delayed until now, with serial production expected to start in 2024.

In 2020, another A-100 aircraft was reported to be under construction, aiming to join the testing phase. In February 2022, Rostec announced a significant milestone: the first flight of the new A-100 complex equipped with onboard radar technology was successfully conducted.

Looking forward, the introduction of Russia’s latest AWACS A-100 aircraft with the advanced Premier radar system is anticipated by the end of the year, despite the lack of official statements on the matter.

Additionally, in March, Sergey Chemezov, head of Rostec, mentioned plans to modernize and resume production of the A-50U long-range radar detection and control aircraft to meet the current needs of the Russian Armed Forces, alongside the A-100 Premier program.

F-35 Jets Stationed in Norway's Mountain Hangars for Defense Against UAV Attacks Post Su-57 Incident

 Recently, photos emerged online showing underground shelters at Norway’s Bardufoss Air Force Base, captured during a Norwegian Air Force exercise. These images featured fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighter jets practicing in mountain-based shelters. Norway, a NATO member, has F-35 aircraft certified to carry tactical nuclear weapons, making these underground facilities highly secure against missile and drone attacks.

Since joining NATO, Norway and the Nordic region have experienced almost continuous military exercises, underscoring the ongoing militarization of Scandinavia amid escalating threats of potential Arctic conflicts.

Bardufoss, Norway’s oldest airbase, has a rich history dating back to World War II. Initially used by the Allies, it was later taken over by German forces who launched fighter, bomber, and reconnaissance missions from the base. Today, Bardufoss, located in Målselv Municipality, Troms og Finnmark county, is a strategic military airbase operated by the Royal Norwegian Air Force, critical due to its proximity to the Arctic.

The airbase features a single runway, 10/28, stretching 2,443 meters (8,015 feet), accommodating various military aircraft, including fighter jets, transport planes, and helicopters. Bardufoss supports a wide array of offensive and defensive operations.

The 139th Air Wing, stationed at Bardufoss, includes the 337 Squadron with NH90 helicopters and the 339 Squadron operating Bell 412 helicopters. These units are vital for search and rescue missions, anti-submarine warfare, and troop transport. Additionally, the base hosts a detachment from the Norwegian Army’s Aviation Battalion, using Bell 412 helicopters for reconnaissance and medical evacuation, enhancing the base's operational capabilities.

Equipped with advanced radar and communication systems, Bardufoss ensures robust surveillance and coordination, essential for monitoring airspace and supporting NATO operations. Norway is a key NATO member, and these capabilities reinforce the alliance's northern defense posture.

The rising tensions near Russia’s northern borders have prompted NATO to conduct exercises in the region, reflecting concerns over the perceived threat from Russia. Norway has ordered 52 F-35A Lightning II aircraft from Lockheed Martin to modernize its air force, replacing its aging F-16 fleet. The F-35A, a fifth-generation multirole fighter, features advanced avionics, including the AN/APG-81 AESA radar, Distributed Aperture System (DAS), and Electro-Optical Targeting System (EOTS), providing superior situational awareness and targeting capabilities.

The F-35A is powered by a single Pratt & Whitney F135-PW-100 turbofan engine, delivering maximum thrust of approximately 43,000 pounds with an afterburner, enabling speeds up to Mach 1.6. The aircraft's internal weapons bay can house up to four air-to-air missiles or two air-to-ground munitions and two air-to-air missiles, with external hardpoints for additional ordnance. Typical armaments include AIM-120 AMRAAM, AIM-9X Sidewinder missiles, and precision-guided bombs like the GBU-31 JDAM.

In the context of recent tensions, the deployment of F-35A fighters in Norway's underground shelters at Bardufoss Air Force Base demonstrates NATO's strategic defensive measures. The increased militarization of Scandinavia and the Arctic region highlights the ongoing preparation against potential UAV and missile threats, reinforcing the region's defense infrastructure.

Russia Re-Deploys Tu-22M3 Bomber for Strikes on Ukraine: Key Attack After April Incident

 

The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) redeployed a Tu-22M3 bomber for the first time on the night of June 13-14 following an unprecedented incident in April. According to Ukrainian media, Russian forces launched an aerial strike on Ukraine, primarily targeting the western regions with ballistic missiles, drones, and Kh-101/Kh-55 missiles fired from at least five strategic bombers.

Unverified reports claimed that Russia deployed at least four Tu-22M3 bombers from the Dyagilevo airfield near Ryazan, marking their first approach within the range of Ukrainian air defense since an April shootdown. 

In April, Ukrainian forces successfully downed a Tupolev Tu-22M Backfire bomber, the first such loss for the Russian bomber fleet. This incident followed a Russian attack on Ukraine’s Dnipropetrovsk Oblast. Air Force Commander Mykola Oleshchuk confirmed the destruction of the Tu-22M3, which carries Kh-22 cruise missiles used against Ukrainian cities. The Russian aircraft crashed in the Krasnogvardeysky District of Stavropol Krai, with videos of the crash circulating on social media. Russia attributed the crash to a technical error, while Ukraine claimed responsibility for downing the aircraft and stated that Russia had subsequently withdrawn the bombers.

The recent attack primarily focused on Starokostyantyniv in the Khmelnytsky area, home to a significant Ukrainian air base. This base, previously targeted by Russia, reportedly houses Ukraine’s Storm Shadow missile carriers, the Su-24MR fighter jets. Ukrainian Air Force (UAF) spokesperson Illya Yevlash declined to comment on the damage, emphasizing that revealing such information could aid the enemy. He noted a new Russian strategy combining airstrikes with regrouping and altering missile and drone movements.

Yevlash described this tactic as involving combined strikes using UAVs from various directions along with different types of missiles, adjusting warhead sizes based on the mission. For example, cruise missiles recently targeted western Ukraine, reaching Kolomyia before turning back towards Starokostiantyniv, demonstrating maneuvers with altitude changes. Each attack follows a unique pattern.

In response to continued Russian attacks, President Vladimir Putin offered a ceasefire on June 14 if Ukraine agreed to withdraw its forces from the four annexed regions and abandon its NATO aspirations. Putin stated that Moscow would "immediately" declare a ceasefire and commence negotiations if Kyiv complied. This proposal follows the G7 meeting in Italy and precedes a summit in Switzerland (excluding Russia) to discuss peace in Ukraine. Despite the annexation of four Ukrainian regions in the fall of 2022, Kyiv’s forces have maintained their positions.

Putin emphasized that his proposal aimed at a “final resolution” of the conflict rather than a temporary freeze, indicating the Kremlin’s readiness for immediate negotiations. However, Kyiv’s ongoing demand for the withdrawal of Russian forces and NATO membership remains unchanged, receiving no immediate response to Russia’s suggestion.

Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, initially targeting Kyiv but later focusing on southern and eastern regions after failing to capture the capital.