WASHINGTON -- On April 22, 2025, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries (HHI) announced that it had been awarded a contract by the Republic of Korea (ROK) Navy Headquarters for the Combat Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) Conceptual Design Project. HD HHI intends to commence the project with an initial meeting later this month and finalize the concept design for these USVs by December 2025. The company’s strategy reportedly includes crafting a mission solution designed to meet the evolving demands of future battlefields, ensuring that the designed USVs surpass manned ships in terms of dependability and cost-effectiveness.

The ROK Navy’s combat USV, currently under concept design, features a length of 30 meters and a beam of 6 meters, with an estimated displacement of over 100 tons. Powered by two waterjet propulsion units, the USV will be equipped for both reconnaissance and combat missions. It supports modular weapon integration, including a 130mm guided rocket system and a 20mm remote-controlled weapon station. For enhanced operational awareness and target acquisition, the platform employs sensors such as electro-optical/infra-red (EO/IR), Lidar, and 360-degree optical systems.

Combat USVs are increasingly pivotal in modern maritime warfare, tasked with reconnaissance and frontline combat missions, forming the backbone of integrated crewed-uncrewed maritime systems. The project is poised to become the ROK Navy’s next focal initiative, with HD HHI at the helm of developing maritime vessels. The USVs are expected to safeguard South Korea’s future maritime security, building on its Aegis destroyer construction capabilities.

HD HHI has also partnered with U.S.-based defence firm Anduril Industries through a memorandum of understanding signed in early April 2025 to collaborate on the development and global deployment of unmanned surface vessels.

Source: Naval Technology
Associated URL: https://www.naval-technology.com/news/hd-hyundai-south-korean-navy/?cf-view

MANILA, Philippines -- Lockheed Martin says the U.S. State Department's recent approval of the proposed sale of 20 F-16 Block 70 aircraft to the Philippines marks a significant step in the country's efforts to modernize its air power capabilities.

The F-16 has a proven track record of reliability, versatility, and effectiveness, with over 3,100 aircraft operating in 28 countries. Recently, the F-16 participated in the Cope Thunder exercise at Clark Air Base, Pampanga demonstrating its capabilities and interoperability with the Philippine Air Force. This exercise showcased the F-16's ability to operate in a complex and dynamic combat environment.

The manufacturer notes that the F-16 seamlessly integrates into the Philippine Air Force fleet, with commonality with the FA-50 in terms of support equipment, driving affordability and pilot readiness. Additionally, the F-16 can be maintained and supported in-country, with the Philippine Air Force having the capability to ensure its F-16 fleet remains operational and ready.

Source: Lockheed Martin
Associated URL: https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2025-04-23-Philippines-Security-Soars-with-Latest-F-16-Platform-U-S-Approval-Paves-Way-for-Enhanced-Air-Power-Capabilities-and-Self-Reliant-Defense-Posture

NEW DELHI - The Indian Navy has conducted a test of a medium-range surface-to-air missile (SAM). The missile was fired from the INS Surat, an Indian Navy destroyer.

As part of this test, the surface-to-air missile intercepted a sea-skimming aerial target drone. This test weas performed as part of an Indian Navy exercise.

Source: NDTV
Associated URL: https://www.ndtv.com/india-news/precision-engagement-indian-navy-guided-missile-destroyer-ins-surat-takes-down-sea-skimming-target-8244994