Articles tagged with "stealth-technology"
Lockheed's RQ-170 drone used in mission to capture Venezuelan leader
Lockheed Martin has publicly confirmed the operational use of its secretive RQ-170 Sentinel stealth drone in a high-risk U.S. military mission targeting Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on January 3, 2023, known as Operation Absolute Resolve. During a quarterly earnings call, CEO Jim Taiclet revealed that the RQ-170 operated alongside F-35 and F-22 fighter jets and Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters, marking one of the few official acknowledgments of the drone’s real-world deployment. Visual evidence emerged showing RQ-170 drones arriving at Naval Station Roosevelt Roads in Puerto Rico, a key hub for the operation, further corroborating their involvement. The RQ-170 Sentinel, developed by Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works and nicknamed the “Beast of Kandahar,” has been linked to several high-profile intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions since its first public identification in the late 2000s. These include monitoring Iran’s nuclear program, supporting the
robotdronemilitary-technologyLockheed-Martinstealth-technologyreconnaissanceunmanned-aerial-vehicle15,000-ton warship with stealth design, missile tubes completes trial
The USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000), a 15,000-ton Zumwalt-class destroyer featuring stealth design and advanced warfighting technology, has successfully completed its first sea trial following extensive modernization at Ingalls Shipbuilding in Pascagoula. This modernization included integrating the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) hypersonic weapon system and replacing the original twin 155mm Advanced Gun Systems with new missile tubes. The Zumwalt-class destroyer boasts a state-of-the-art electric propulsion system, a wave-piercing tumblehome hull, and stealth capabilities that make it difficult to detect both near shore and at sea. The Zumwalt-class is designed for a broad range of missions including deterrence, power projection, sea control, and command and control, while maintaining adaptability for future technological upgrades. Its advanced systems provide the U.S. Navy with enhanced survivability, computing capacity, and multi-mission versatility, enabling sustained operations in littoral zones, land attack, special
energystealth-technologyelectric-propulsionmissile-systemsnaval-technologywarship-modernizationdefense-technologyChina to supercharge J-20 stealth fighter with new radar, engines, AI
China is set to upgrade its J-20 stealth fighter with enhanced avionics, new engines, and artificial intelligence (AI) integration, marking a significant step in the aircraft’s development as it celebrates 15 years since its first flight. The J-20, developed by Chengdu Aircraft Corporation and in service since 2017, is a key component of China’s military modernization and a counter to advanced US stealth fighters like the F-22. The upcoming upgrades will focus on improving internal systems such as radar and infrared tracking to boost target detection and situational awareness, especially for long-range engagements. In addition to avionics, the J-20’s weapons and engines will see advancements. Future air-to-air missiles are expected to have longer ranges and enhanced resistance to electronic interference. Engine upgrades have progressed from Russian Saturn AL-31 models to China’s domestically produced WS-10C and now the more powerful WS-15, which offers better thrust and high-speed performance. AI integration is anticipated to serve
robotartificial-intelligenceavionicsstealth-technologymilitary-technologyradar-systemsaerospace-engineeringB-2 bombers' biggest opponent: Rain used to erode plane's stealthiness
The B-2 stealth bomber, despite its advanced design and high cost, has long faced significant challenges related to its radar-evading coatings and sensitivity to rain and moisture. Reports and a U.S. General Accounting Office (GAO) study revealed that exposure to water and humidity damages the aircraft’s low-observable materials, causing water to accumulate in compartments, ducts, and valves, which can lead to system malfunctions. This vulnerability contributed to the 2008 crash of a B-2, known as The Spirit of Kansas, where moisture in the aircraft’s sensors distorted air data during takeoff. The bomber’s coatings require frequent, lengthy maintenance—accounting for nearly 39% of maintenance man-hours per flight hour—and necessitate environmentally controlled shelters, making it impractical to deploy the B-2 without protective hangars. Operational testing showed that the B-2’s mission-capable rate significantly decreases when low-observability issues are factored in, dropping from 66% to
materialsstealth-technologyaircraft-coatingserosion-resistancemaintenance-challengeslow-observable-materialsaerospace-materialsChina tests 570 mph-speeding spy drone aimed at surveillance
China’s CH-7 stealth unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has successfully completed its maiden flight at a Northwest China airfield, marking a significant milestone in the country’s high-altitude reconnaissance drone program. Developed by the 11th Academy of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation (CASC), the initial flight focused on validating the drone’s aerodynamic design and core control systems, including autonomous taxiing, takeoff, landing, and trajectory tracking. The CH-7 features a tailless, flying-wing layout that enhances endurance and stealth but complicates flight stability and system integration, increasing the technical challenges of early testing. Designed for high-altitude, long-endurance stealth reconnaissance missions, the CH-7 carries advanced sensor payloads such as visible-light and infrared cameras while maintaining a low radar and infrared signature through features like upper-surface air intakes, semi-concealed engine exhaust, radar-absorbing structures, and stealth coatings. Its design supports operations in contested airspace with dense
robotdronestealth-technologyautonomous-systemsaerospace-engineeringsurveillance-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehicleEU unveils $5.6-million plan to build quieter underwater drones
The European Defense Agency (EDA) has launched a €4.8-million ($5.6-million) research initiative called SPHYDA (Submarine Hull/Rudder/Propeller Hydrodynamics Interaction and Hydroacoustics) aimed at reducing the acoustic noise generated by autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs). Over four years, the project seeks to analyze how noise arises from the interaction of hull shapes, rudders, and propellers, with a particular focus on hydrodynamic noise caused by propulsion systems that generate cavitation. By developing advanced numerical models and experimental methods, SPHYDA aims to create digital design guidelines for quieter, stealthier underwater drones, which will provide strategic military advantages and help protect marine life. The project involves nine industrial and research partners from Italy (the lead nation), Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Norway. After building and validating digital models, SPHYDA will proceed to tank testing and real-world sea trials to measure far-field noise. The initiative reflects a broader
roboticsautonomous-underwater-vehiclesunderwater-droneshydrodynamicsnoise-reductionmilitary-technologystealth-technologyChina's bizarre-looking submarine could work as surface vessel: Report
China has unveiled a novel naval vessel at the Huangpu shipyard in Guangzhou that combines features of both submarines and surface ships, generating significant interest among defense analysts. The craft, approximately 65 meters long with a trimaran hull design, displays a minimal superstructure and lacks visible missile tubes, hangars, or traditional crew spaces, leading experts to speculate it may be unmanned or minimally crewed. Its dark coloration and submarine-like sail fitted with snorkel or antenna masts further emphasize its hybrid nature. The vessel’s propulsion might include a pump-jet system, which offers quieter, stealthier movement compared to conventional propellers. The exact purpose of this unusual platform remains unclear, but several theories have emerged. It could serve as a semi-submersible arsenal ship capable of launching missiles before submerging, a drone deployment platform for aerial or underwater systems, a covert special-operations transport, or a testbed for new hybrid naval technologies. The concept of a semi-submersible arsenal ship
robotunmanned-vesselsnaval-technologyhybrid-maritime-platformsstealth-technologypump-jet-propulsionautonomous-underwater-vehiclesWorld's 5 most expensive military aircraft in history
The article highlights the five most expensive military aircraft in history, emphasizing their advanced technology, strategic importance, and staggering costs driven by research, development, and specialized infrastructure. Leading the list is the Northrop B-2 Spirit, with a total program cost of approximately $44.75 billion for 21 bombers, averaging about $2 billion per unit when including R&D and sustainment. Known for its stealth capabilities, the B-2 has been active in multiple conflicts and remains in service until its planned retirement around 2032, to be succeeded by the B-21 Raider. Next is the VC-25B, the next-generation Air Force One, costing around $2 to $2.5 billion per aircraft before operating expenses. These aircraft serve as flying command centers for the U.S. president, equipped with EMP shielding, secure communications, and self-defense systems. The program has faced delays, with delivery expected between 2027 and 2029. The B-21 Raider, still
materialsmilitary-technologyaerospace-engineeringstealth-technologyavionicsdefense-systemsadvanced-materialsChina's stealth jet coating reduces radar signal intensity by 700x
Chinese researchers from the People’s Liberation Army and China Aerospace Science and Industry Corporation have developed an ultra-thin stealth coating derived from loofah to significantly reduce radar signal detection of fighter jets. By carbonizing dried loofah and embedding it with nickel cobalt oxide (NiCo₂O₄) magnetic nanoparticles, the resulting composite, named NCO-2, absorbs over 99.99% of incident electromagnetic waves in the Ku-band frequency range (12-18 GHz). At just 4mm thick, this coating can reduce reflected radar signal intensity by nearly 700 times, effectively shrinking a stealth aircraft’s radar cross-section from 50 square meters to less than 1 square meter, even when radar beams come from directly above. The coating’s effectiveness is attributed to the loofah’s natural 3D network of cellulose fibers, which, when carbonized, form a lightweight conductive scaffold with mazelike pores. Electromagnetic waves entering this structure undergo multiple internal reflections, increasing absorption
materialsstealth-technologyelectromagnetic-wave-absorptioncarbon-compositeradar-stealthnanomaterialsaerospace-materialsPoland to acquire world’s first 5th-gen submarines from Sweden’s Saab
Poland has chosen Sweden’s Saab A26 submarines, described as the world’s first fifth-generation submarines, to replace its aging Soviet-era Kilo-class vessel. The decision, announced by Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz under the Orka program, involves acquiring three advanced A26 submarines. This selection follows a competitive process where Sweden outpaced South Korea, despite Korea’s offer to transfer an active-duty submarine for free. The contract, expected to be signed by mid-2026, is valued around 10 billion zlotys ($2.74 billion) but could rise to nearly 36 billion zlotys ($9.8 billion), with the first submarine delivery planned for 2030. The Saab A26 Blekinge-class submarine is designed to meet NATO’s evolving multi-domain operational needs, featuring stealth capabilities, advanced intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) functions, and long-range precision strike abilities.
robotenergymilitary-technologyunderwater-vehiclessubmarine-technologystealth-technologydefense-systemsCan China’s J-20 Detect the F-35?
The article examines the ongoing technological contest between two advanced stealth fighters: China’s upgraded J-20 “Mighty Dragon” and the U.S. F-35 Lightning II. China asserts that its J-20 can now detect the F-35 at distances exceeding 700 kilometers, leveraging next-generation AESA radar and infrared search systems enhanced by silicon carbide technology. This claim highlights significant advancements in China’s sensor capabilities aimed at countering the F-35’s stealth features. However, the article emphasizes that despite these improvements, the F-35 retains critical advantages through its sophisticated sensor fusion, extremely low radar cross-section, and integrated networked data links. These capabilities collectively enhance the F-35’s situational awareness and survivability in combat. Ultimately, the piece argues that future air engagements will be less about individual aircraft performance and more about the effectiveness of integrated systems and networked warfare, shifting the paradigm from jet-versus-jet dogfights to system-versus-system battles.
materialssilicon-carbideradar-technologystealth-technologysensor-fusionaerospace-technologymilitary-technologyWorld's first 5th-gen submarine promises stealth ops, drone delivery
Swedish defense company Saab has introduced the A26, which it calls the world’s first fifth-generation submarine designed to meet NATO’s evolving multi-domain operational needs. Developed for the Swedish Navy with NATO interoperability in mind, the A26 emphasizes stealth, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR), as well as long-range precision strike and seabed warfare capabilities. Leveraging advanced hull design, radar-absorbing coatings, and an electronic degaussing system, the submarine minimizes its acoustic, magnetic, and electric signatures. Its patented Stirling Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) system enables extended submerged operations, enhancing its near-total invisibility in both shallow coastal and open ocean environments. The A26 introduces novel seabed warfare features, including the deployment of unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) and special operations forces from modular payload bays, allowing control over critical maritime infrastructure such as communication cables and chokepoints. Armed with long-range precision torpedoes and potential submarine-launched cruise missiles,
robotenergymaterialsunderwater-vehiclesstealth-technologyautonomous-systemsdefense-technologyOldest US bomber tests America’s most advanced nuclear missile ever
A B-52H Stratofortress bomber, known as Torch52, was photographed on October 29, 2025, over Owens Valley, California, carrying what appears to be the AGM-181 Long-Range Standoff (LRSO) stealth nuclear cruise missile. This marks the missile’s first public sighting. The AGM-181 LRSO is a next-generation nuclear-capable cruise missile designed to replace the older AGM-86B Air-Launched Cruise Missile. It features advanced stealth capabilities, including composite materials and a smaller radar cross-section, fold-out wings, an inverted-T tail, and electronic countermeasures to evade enemy radar and defenses. The missile is approximately 20 feet long, subsonic, and uses an air-breathing engine, allowing it to strike strategic targets from long distances beyond enemy air defenses. Developed by Raytheon since 2020, the LRSO is compatible with both the B-52H and the forthcoming B-
materialsenergyaerospace-technologystealth-technologymissile-guidance-systemscomposite-materialsavionicsChina claims new jet coating can survive 1,800°F and block radar
Chinese researchers from Peking University and Harbin Engineering University have developed an ultra-thin, heat-resistant coating designed to enhance stealth capabilities of fighter jets by absorbing radar waves. This metasurface coating, only 0.1 millimeters thick, can withstand extreme temperatures up to 1,832°F (1,000°C) and maintain its radar-absorbing properties under high-speed airflow conditions typical of supersonic flight. Created by depositing graphene onto a silica fabric substrate and then patterning it with lasers, the resulting graphene-silica fiber membrane is lightweight, flexible, and durable, capable of reducing radar reflection by up to -42 decibels without adding significant weight or altering aircraft structure. The technology represents a significant advancement in stealth materials, potentially applicable not only to military aircraft like China’s J-20 stealth fighter but also to satellites, drones, and hypersonic vehicles exposed to harsh thermal and electromagnetic environments. This innovation contrasts with current U.S. stealth coatings, which are fragile,
materialsadvanced-coatingsgraphenestealth-technologyelectromagnetic-absorptionthermal-stabilityaerospace-materialsChina mass producing quantum radars to track US stealth jets
China has begun mass production of a novel ultra-sensitive photon detector, described as the world’s first four-channel, ultra-low noise single-photon detector, developed by the Quantum Information Engineering Technology Research Center in Anhui province. This device can detect individual photons, a capability critical for advancing quantum radar technology. Quantum radars leverage the unique quantum properties of photons to detect stealth aircraft, such as the US F-22 and F-35 fighters, which evade traditional radar by absorbing or deflecting signals. By analyzing the quantum state changes of photons reflected from stealth jets, these radars can reveal their positions with greater accuracy, consume less power, and be deployed on various platforms while emitting less detectable energy. China’s new photon detector is significantly smaller—only one-ninth the size of existing single-channel detectors—and enhances the simultaneous detection and tracking of multiple light sources, improving imaging rates and detection range. Previously, China developed a quantum radar with a detection range of about 100 kilometers, and this advancement is
quantum-radarphoton-detectorstealth-technologyquantum-communicationenergy-detectiondefense-technologyChina-technologyUS finishes initial trials of 10,200-ton nuclear super submarine
The US Navy has successfully completed the initial sea trials of the Virginia-class nuclear attack submarine Massachusetts (SSN 798), a 10,200-ton vessel and the 25th in its class. Built by Huntington Ingalls Industries’ Newport News Shipbuilding division, the submarine underwent a series of tests including its first submergence and high-speed maneuvers both on the surface and underwater. These trials mark a significant milestone before the submarine’s formal delivery to the Navy. Massachusetts, christened in May 2023, will soon join the Navy’s fast-attack fleet, enhancing its operational capabilities. Virginia-class submarines are highly advanced, versatile platforms designed for a wide range of missions such as anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare, Tomahawk missile strikes, intelligence gathering, mine warfare, and Special Operations Forces deployment. Powered by nuclear reactors, they offer superior stealth, mobility, and endurance compared to conventional submarines. The class replaces the aging Los Angeles-class submarines and incorporates modular
energynuclear-propulsionsubmarine-technologynaval-engineeringVirginia-class-submarinesmissile-systemsstealth-technologyAir Force confirms Boeing is building F-47 stealth jet for 2028
The U.S. Air Force has confirmed that Boeing is actively building the F-47, a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet intended to succeed the F-22 Raptor, with a planned first flight by 2028. Announced by Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin at the Air and Space Forces’ Air, Space and Cyber Conference, the F-47 program is progressing rapidly, with manufacturing already underway just months after Boeing was selected in March 2025. The jet is designed to feature advanced stealth capabilities, modern sensors, powerful engines capable of exceeding Mach 2 speeds, a combat radius over 1,000 nautical miles, and autonomous drone wingmen. The Air Force aims to procure at least 185 units, matching or surpassing the current F-22 fleet size, to maintain air superiority in future conflicts. Despite an ambitious development timeline extending through fiscal 2030, officials suggest the F-47 could become operational earlier, though some advanced features like next-generation engines may be introduced
robotautonomous-dronesstealth-technologyaerospace-engineeringmilitary-technologyBoeingfighter-jets'World’s first' ship-based stealth drone may be deployed by China
China has unveiled the GJ-11 "Sharp Sword," which it claims to be the world’s first ship-launched stealth combat drone. Developed by Hongdu Aviation Industry Group under the Aviation Industry Corporation of China (AVIC), the drone evolved from the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation’s Sharp Sword project. Featuring a flying wing design and a fully blended body, the GJ-11 boasts low radar cross-section visibility enhanced by a specialized stealth coating. Measuring about 10 meters long with a 14-meter wingspan, it is powered by a turbofan engine capable of speeds up to 690 mph (1,111 km/h) and can carry a payload of up to 2,000 kg. Its design includes folding hinges to facilitate storage on aircraft carriers and amphibious assault ships. The GJ-11 is equipped with two internal weapons bays for guided bombs and can perform both strike and reconnaissance missions using multiple sensors. A notable capability is its function as a "loyal wingman," autonom
robotdronestealth-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehiclemilitary-technologyautonomous-systemsaerospace-materialsBoeing teases US Navy stealth jet with 25% more range than F-35
Boeing has unveiled its F/A-XX, a sixth-generation stealth fighter jet designed to replace the US Navy’s aging F/A-18 Super Hornets in the 2030s. The F/A-XX is notable for its carrier-ready design, including features like canards for improved low-speed agility during carrier landings, and a maximum operating range exceeding 1,700 miles—about 25% greater than the current F-35C Lightning II. This extended range is particularly significant for operations in the Pacific, where US carriers face threats from China’s long-range missiles. The aircraft is envisioned as a “quarterback” for unmanned drones, leveraging advanced AI to manage sensor data and extend operational reach, potentially covering an area larger than North America with aerial refueling. Boeing’s design contrasts with its main competitor, Northrop Grumman, whose concept prioritizes extreme stealth without canards. Boeing’s approach balances stealth with enhanced maneuverability and carrier compatibility, accepting a
robotartificial-intelligenceunmanned-aircraftstealth-technologyaerospace-engineeringmilitary-dronesnaval-aviation20,800-ton future submarine could be survivable leg of US nuclear triad
Construction has begun on the USS Wisconsin (SSBN 827), a 20,800-ton Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine that will serve as a survivable leg of the U.S. nuclear triad. This vessel, the second of its class following the USS District of Columbia, is designed specifically for stealth and will replace the aging Ohio-class submarines. Ballistic missile submarines, often called "boomers," provide an undetectable launch platform for submarine-launched ballistic missiles, ensuring a credible second-strike capability and forming the backbone of the U.S. strategic deterrence strategy. The keel-laying ceremony took place on August 27, 2025, at General Dynamics Electric Boat’s Quonset Point facility in Rhode Island, with over 300 defense contractors and suppliers from Wisconsin supporting the submarine’s development. The USS Wisconsin will be operated by two crews, Blue and Gold, who will maintain and operate the nuclear-powered vessel to fulfill its mission of deterrence. The Columbia-class program
energynuclear-propulsionsubmarine-technologydefense-contractorsstealth-technologystrategic-deterrencenaval-engineeringLeaked details reveal China's uncrewed vessel with stealth design
Leaked information and images from rehearsals for China’s upcoming Victory Day military parade reveal a new unmanned surface vessel featuring advanced stealth design elements. The drone boat, painted in the Chinese navy’s white-grey-blue camouflage and lacking visible hull numbers, incorporates concealed antennas and radar to minimize infrared, visual, and acoustic detection. Its angular, faceted hull suggests an emphasis on low observability, although it remains unclear if radar-absorbent materials are used. Notably, the vessel includes cockpit windows, indicating it can be operated both autonomously and by a crew, enhancing its versatility for surveillance, patrol, and potentially combat missions. The craft is sizable—estimated at over 15 meters (49 feet) long—capable of housing sophisticated equipment or personnel. This new uncrewed surface vehicle contrasts with China’s previously unveiled larger stealth drone, the “Killer Whale,” a 500-tonne trimaran with high speed and long range, designed as a multi-role combat platform. The appearance
robotautonomous-vesselsstealth-technologyunmanned-surface-vehiclenaval-dronesmilitary-roboticsdrone-boatChina's flying-wing stealth drone rivals B-2 in scale in leaked images
Leaked images circulating on social media reveal a new Chinese flying-wing drone that closely rivals the American B-2 Spirit bomber in scale, with an estimated wingspan of about 170 feet (52 meters), nearly matching the B-2’s 172 feet. The drone’s design features, such as split rudders and clipped wingtips, resemble both the B-2 and the newer B-21, though its exact identity remains unclear due to the low resolution and unknown origin of the image. Analysts speculate it could be a high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) stealth reconnaissance drone rather than a bomber, intended for penetrating surveillance and intelligence gathering. It may correspond to a previously spotted large drone nicknamed WZ-X at China’s Malan test base, a relatively new facility with hangars similar to those housing U.S. stealth bombers. The drone’s configuration, including possible twin-engine exhaust nozzles, remains uncertain, and there are no visible signs of a cockpit,
robotdronestealth-technologyaerospacereconnaissancemilitary-technologyunmanned-aerial-vehicleTurkey's TALAY Drone: World's First Sea-Skimming UAV
Turkey has developed the TALAY, the world's first sea-skimming unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), reviving the Cold War-era concept of the ekranoplan. This innovative drone flies just meters above the sea surface, enabling it to evade radar detection and enhance stealth capabilities in naval operations. By combining modern AI technology with the ekranoplan's unique design, the TALAY represents a significant advancement in maritime warfare. The TALAY’s ability to operate at low altitudes over water allows it to avoid conventional radar systems, making it a formidable asset for surveillance, reconnaissance, and potentially offensive missions. Drawing inspiration from Soviet-era "Sea Monsters," Turkey’s adaptation modernizes this concept, potentially altering naval strategies and the balance of power in maritime domains. This development underscores Turkey’s growing emphasis on integrating AI and unmanned systems into its military arsenal.
robotdroneUAVmilitary-technologystealth-technologyAI-warfarenaval-warfareChina’s new mystery stealth jet's flight sets social media on fire
Leaked images and video circulating on Chinese social media have sparked intense speculation about a new, mysterious tailless aircraft believed to be an advanced stealth design. The aircraft features a sharply pointed nose blending into delta wings, twin-engine intakes, no vertical stabilizers, and a heavy-duty tricycle landing gear, suggesting a conventional or carrier-capable weight class. Its lack of a visible cockpit raises the possibility that it is an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) or drone, potentially part of China’s ongoing development of autonomous “loyal wingman” stealth drones, such as the GJ-11 “Sharp Sword” or FH-97 series, which are comparable to U.S. programs like the Valkyrie and Ghost Bat. Experts remain cautious about the aircraft’s exact role or classification, with theories ranging from it being a next-generation fighter or bomber to a carrier-optimized platform or a Chengdu-developed counterpart to the J-36 stealth fighter. The design shares some similarities with existing Chinese
robotdroneunmanned-aerial-vehiclestealth-technologyautonomous-systemsmilitary-technologyaerospace-engineeringRussia’s stealth nuclear submarine’s secrets out, Ukraine claims
Ukraine’s defense intelligence agency, HUR, claims to have obtained sensitive engineering documents and operational details about Russia’s newest stealth nuclear-powered submarine, the Knyaz Pozharsky, a Borei-A (Project 955A) class ballistic missile submarine commissioned in July 2025. This vessel, one of the most modern in Russia’s naval fleet, carries Bulava ballistic missiles capable of striking targets up to 8,000 km away, each missile armed with up to 10 warheads. The submarine features advanced navigation, sonar, and stealth technologies, powered by a VM-5 pressurized water reactor, and displaces 24,000 tons submerged, making it larger than the U.S. Ohio-class submarines. The leaked documents reportedly reveal detailed technical specifications, crew operations, combat layouts, and internal issues such as a deformed radio beacon, along with investigation records and daily schedules of the crew. These insights could expose vulnerabilities and shortcomings in the Borei-A class, which is
energynuclear-energysubmarine-technologymilitary-technologystealth-technologyballistic-missilesnaval-engineeringUK’s sixth-gen stealth fighter emerges as next-gen war machine
The UK’s Combat Air Flying Demonstrator marks the nation’s first piloted supersonic fighter aircraft developed in 40 years, spearheaded by the Ministry of Defence in partnership with BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and MBDA UK. Currently, two-thirds of the aircraft’s structural weight—including its main body, wings, and tail fins—is in production at BAE Systems’ Lancashire facilities, utilizing advanced manufacturing techniques such as robotic assembly, 3D printing, and digital twins. This demonstrator aims to test and mature technologies critical for a future sixth-generation stealth fighter jet under the Global Combat Air Programme, emphasizing stealth capabilities, advanced design approaches, and streamlined production processes. Extensive simulator flights totaling over 300 hours have allowed engineers and test pilots from BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, and the RAF to evaluate flight control systems and gather performance data ahead of the aircraft’s maiden flight. Collaborative efforts have also included high-speed ejection seat trials with Martin Baker and aerodynamic engine testing
roboticsdigital-manufacturingadvanced-materialsaerospace-engineeringstealth-technology3D-printingdigital-twinsChina claims to fix design flaw that doomed US X-47B stealth drone
Chinese researchers at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Centre, led by Huang Jiangtao, claim to have overcome a critical design bottleneck in stealth aircraft development by creating a new software platform that efficiently optimizes hundreds of aerodynamic and stealth parameters simultaneously. Demonstrated on the US Navy’s X-47B stealth drone—a program previously canceled due to unresolved trade-offs among stealth, aerodynamics, and propulsion—the software optimized 740 variables at once, achieving significant improvements without the exponential increase in computational cost typically associated with such complexity. Their method, published in Acta Aeronautica et Astronautica Sinica, uses a geometric sensitivity computation approach that decouples gradient calculation costs from the number of design variables, enabling full-scale aerodynamic and stealth optimization including radar-absorbent materials. This breakthrough addresses the longstanding “curse of dimensionality” in aircraft design, where increasing parameters traditionally force engineers to simplify or compromise. Instead of relying on brute-force computing power, the team employed a “DeepSeek-style
robotdronestealth-technologyaerodynamic-optimizationradar-absorbent-materialscomputational-designaerospace-engineeringSouth Korea to get world's first hydrogen stealth tank from Hyundai
South Korea’s Hyundai Rotem, in collaboration with the Agency for Defense Development and the Defense Agency for Technology and Quality, has launched the development of the K3, the world’s first hydrogen-powered stealth main battle tank. Scheduled for production by 2040, the K3 represents a significant advancement over the current K2 Black Panther, featuring a hybrid powertrain that initially combines hydrogen and diesel before transitioning fully to hydrogen fuel cells. This shift aims to reduce acoustic and thermal signatures, enhancing stealth and operational endurance while marking a paradigm shift in mechanized warfare mobility and survivability. The K3 is equipped with a 130mm smoothbore main gun on an unmanned turret, supported by an AI-enhanced fire control system capable of autonomous target tracking and engagement, enabling preemptive strikes in networked combat environments. It also carries multi-purpose anti-tank guided missiles with ranges up to 8 kilometers and a remote weapons station for close defense. Crew survivability is enhanced through a low-profile hull
energyhydrogen-fuel-cellshybrid-powertrainmilitary-technologyautonomous-targetingAI-fire-controlstealth-technologyIs the Ekranoplan back? China might be reviving a Soviet-era legend
Leaked images suggest that China is developing a modern version of the Soviet-era Ekranoplan, a wing-in-ground effect (WIG) vehicle designed to fly just above the water’s surface by using a cushion of compressed air for efficient low-altitude flight. Nicknamed the “Bohai Sea Monster,” this craft was spotted near the Bohai Sea and appears similar in size to China’s AG600 flying boat. The original Soviet Ekranoplans were high-speed amphibious vehicles used for troop transport, anti-ship warfare, and could reach speeds up to 310 mph. The Chinese version may employ composite materials for stealth and weight advantages and could serve roles such as search and rescue, personnel recovery, light cargo transport, anti-submarine operations, and sea control in coastal zones. The U.S. is reportedly developing a comparable WIG aircraft called the “Liberty Lifter,” aimed at rapid logistics across the Pacific while remaining below radar detection. Although details about China’s WIG
materialsaerospace-technologycomposite-materialsmilitary-technologywing-in-ground-effectstealth-technologyaviation-innovationUS Air Force reveals new nuclear cruise missile for B-21, B-52 planes
The US Air Force has unveiled the AGM-181A Long-Range Standoff (LRSO) missile, a new nuclear-armed cruise missile developed by Raytheon to replace the aging AGM-86B Air-Launched Cruise Missile. Designed to arm the B-21 Raider stealth bomber and upgraded B-52 Stratofortress, the LRSO features advanced stealth capabilities, resilience against electronic warfare, and precise navigation to operate effectively in contested environments. Armed with the W80-4 thermonuclear warhead, the missile is optimized for low observability, autonomous threat avoidance, and adaptive targeting, enabling it to penetrate advanced air defenses and strike high-value targets from standoff distances. The LRSO is part of a broader integrated strike architecture involving space-based sensors, command-and-control systems, and potentially classified escort aircraft, aimed at enhancing US nuclear deterrence amid growing strategic challenges from Russia and China. Its standoff range offers flexible deterrent options, including forward deployment and mission recall, which are critical for escalation control during crises. Flight testing is underway under secrecy, with operational deployment expected in the latter half of the decade. The program is projected to cost $16 billion for over 1,000 missiles plus $7 billion for lifecycle support, with a unit cost of about $14 million. Plans for a conventional variant have been dropped, leaving the AGM-158 JASSM family to fulfill non-nuclear strike roles. The LRSO addresses a crucial gap in US nuclear capabilities and underscores continued American resolve in great power competition.
energymilitary-technologymissile-technologynuclear-weaponsstealth-technologyaerospace-engineeringdefense-systems