Jean-Yves COURTOIS

MBDA 𝗥𝗗-𝟭𝟮𝟬 𝗥𝗮𝗶𝗷𝗶𝗻 𝗟𝗼𝗶𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 🤔 At the Euronaval 2024 exhibition in Paris, MBDA, collaborating with French defense company Fly-R, introduced the RD-120 Raijin, a loitering munition designed for high-precision, autonomous strikes on critical battlefield targets. The Raijin represents MBDA’s entry into the expanding loitering munitions market, driven by increased interest in these weapons due to their effective deployment in modern conflicts, notably the war in Ukraine. The RD-120 Raijin emphasizes flexibility, power, and precision. Equipped with a high-performance day/night camera, it can detect, identify, and engage targets under varied lighting conditions. The munition’s customizable pyrotechnic charge adapts to different target armor levels, from light vehicles to heavily armored assets, maximizing operational effectiveness. The RD-120 is compact, with a folded size of 250 mm in width, 255 mm in height, and 1,195 mm in length, making it easily storable and transportable. When deployed, its wings extend to 1,215 mm in width, offering stability and efficiency without compromising maneuverability. With a maximum takeoff weight of 5 kg, it can carry a 1.5 kg payload, balancing power and portability. Propelled by an electric motor, the RD-120 operates within a versatile speed range of 95 km/h to 200 km/h and accelerates to 270 km/h in its attack dive. The Raijin offers a range of up to 50 km with an endurance of 45 minutes, making it suitable for extended missions. It can operate at altitudes up to 3,000 meters, giving it a tactical advantage in diverse terrains. The RD-120’s rhomboid wing configuration enhances its lift-to-drag ratio, stability, and maneuverability, allowing it to perform precise, rapid maneuvers and approach targets from steep angles. This unique design reduces its visual, acoustic, and thermal signatures, enhancing stealth capabilities. The Raijin can be launched directly from a reusable transport container, with autonomous flight that operators can override for target verification and engagement. This advanced loitering munition enters a defense landscape where loitering munitions have proven their strategic value, especially in Ukraine, where both sides have effectively used them against high-value targets. MBDA and Fly-R aim to leverage this demand with the RD-120 Raijin, positioning it as a valuable tool for militaries seeking precise, versatile, and efficient strike capabilities #loiterinfmunition #suicidedrone https://lnkd.in/desp8J7m

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A Practioner's view is so vital to develop a practical and useable product.

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I am pleased to share with you some exciting developments in the space ecosystem in the last week: 🚀 The global space economy grew 7.4% in 2023 to $570B, according to the Space Foundation’s annual Space Report, and nearly doubled in size in the last decade. This continued development showcases significant growth and expanding opportunities across the sector. 🇬🇧 The UK Space Agency announced at the beginning of Farnborough Airshow this week that it awarded £33 million to more than 20 innovation-forward space projects. This funding aims to boost innovation, support cutting-edge projects, and solidify the UK's position as a leader in the space industry. 🛰 Seraphim portfolio company Astroscale announced that its British subsidiary secured around $15 million from the UK Space Agency and the European Space Agency to support the last and fourth phase of ELSA-M, or End of Life Services by Astroscale-Multiple mission, which will deorbit Eutelsat OneWeb satellite. This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable space operations and the reduction of space debris. 💰 Astranis Space Technologies has raised $200 million to fully fund its Omega program up to the launch of the first next-generation broadband spacecraft in 2026. This exciting Series D funding round will accelerate the deployment of advanced communications satellites, enhancing global connectivity. 🇯🇵 Following my recent travels to Japan, there is an interesting article in Payload on the rise of Japan's commercial space industry featuring Koichi Wakata, Axiom Space CTO for Asia-Pacific. The article explores the rapid development and future potential of Japan's contributions to the global space sector. Read more here - https://lnkd.in/dbqkrJKY

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The Brazilian Air Force's acquisition of Thales' Ground Master 200 Multi Mission (GM200 MM/A) radars exemplifies the growth of the #defense sector in Latin America. This development reflects a regional trend of investing in advanced defense technologies to enhance national #security and situational awareness. Latin American countries are increasingly partnering with global defense companies like #Thales to strengthen their defense capabilities. Thales' involvement, particularly through its local subsidiary Omnisys, emphasizes the significance of localized support and expertise in these advancements.

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Ready to operate in more contested airspaces : MQ-9A Block 5 to Get New Self-Protection Pod Next Year

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I am pleased to share some exciting space updates from the last week that are impacting the SpaceTech ecosystem: China’s Chang’e 6 Mission Success - China’s Chang’e 6 has made a historic achievement by delivering the first-ever samples from the lunar far side. This milestone marks a significant step in lunar exploration, providing unprecedented data and insights about the moon's composition and history. Pixxel’s Landmark 350th iDEX Contract - Our portfolio company Pixxel, a pioneer in cutting-edge hyperspectral earth-imaging technology, has secured a unique iDEX contract to develop Miniaturized Multi-Payload Satellites. This contract, a first-of-its-kind in the industry, represents a significant leap in space technology and underscores Pixxel's leadership in the field. SpaceX hired by NASA to destroy the ISS after it retires in 2030 - NASA - National Aeronautics and Space Administration will have a spacecraft from Elon Musk’s SpaceX to guide the International Space Station’s destruction after its retirement in 2030. NASA awarded an $843 million contract to SpaceX to build the so-called “U.S. Deorbit Vehicle.” The SpaceX-built vehicle will effectively destroy the ISS by pushing the station into reentry from orbit. Lockheed Martin’s $977.5m Contract Extension - Lockheed Martin has secured a $977.5 million contract extension for the development and deployment of missile-warning satellites. This contract extension highlights Lockheed Martin's crucial role in national security and space defence. The enhanced capabilities of these satellites will provide better detection and tracking of missile threats, bolstering global security infrastructure. Check out the full stories via this link here - https://lnkd.in/e5364sj4

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Method Aeronautics Advances to Next Phase in DARPA's ANCILLARY Program, Pioneering VTOL Technologies for Unmanned Aircraft Falls Church, Virginia — April 30, 2024 The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has announced that Method Aeronautics LLC has progressed to the next phase of the groundbreaking AdvaNced airCraft Infrastructure-Less Launch And RecoverY (ANCILLARY) program. This phase aims to further the design and test of an X-plane demonstrator of advanced propulsion and control architectures for Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) unmanned aircraft systems (UAS). Adding to Method's reputation as experts in long endurance fixed-wing aircraft design, with this milestone Method has emerged as a leader in vertical takeoff and landing technology for unmanned aircraft systems. Method's design brings a novel approach enabling efficient, robust VTOL capability for Group 3 UAS. Method sees this program as critical technology development to enable wider use of VTOL UAS by U.S. forces abroad, and is actively working to accelerate development beyond the scope of the award. For the ANCILLARY program Method is collaborating with two other industry standouts: Bechamo and SNC. Bechamo was founded in 2020 to provide flight control solutions, and to help aircraft makers create better and more controllable aircraft. Funded also by NASA Phase 1 and Phase 2 SBIRs, Bechamo is using AI and Optimization approaches to provide easier, safer aircraft flight controllers. SNC is proud to partner with Method and Bechamo as part of the DARPA ANCILLARY program. SNC’s long-history in enduring landing systems and aircraft modification and integration is enabling it to generate a state-of-the-art AI/ML landing solution with verifiable statistical safety checks to meet the demands of the ANCILLARY program and the modern warfighter. About Method Aeronautics: Since being founded in 2019 by the team responsible for the creation of Vanilla Aircraft, Method Aeronautics has been engaged in concept development, detail design, fabrication, flight test, and operational support for multiple unmanned aircraft programs. By adopting an entirely fresh approach to unmanned VTOL designs, Method once again aims to redefine the limits of possibility in the industry. Contact Information: [email protected] https://lnkd.in/gtAc2Fxu

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Does the potential rigidity of the IRM&CM process (AJP 2.7) apply to rapidly changing battlespaces? Contemporary warfare demands immediate responsiveness and flexibility, posing challenges to traditional ISR workflows that may take days or weeks to develop. To address this, here are some key actions to enhance ISR capabilities: - **Real-Time Adjustments**: Incorporate mechanisms for real-time adjustments within the IRM&CM process to quickly revise collection plans and re-task ISR assets based on immediate operational needs and intelligence updates. - **Shorter Planning Cycles**: Implement shorter, iterative planning cycles for more frequent updates and revisions to the collection plan. - **Leveraging Advanced Technologies**: Utilize AI, machine learning algorithms, and automation to process data quickly, identify patterns, and provide actionable intelligence in near real-time. Other strategies include empowering field units, establishing forward-deployed ISR cells, investing in real-time communication networks, utilizing integrated command and control systems, and deploying flexible ISR platforms. Additionally, conducting frequent training exercises and scenario-based simulations are vital to prepare ISR personnel for dynamic environments. While the traditional IRM&CM process offers a structured approach to ISR operations, adapting it to the fast-paced nature of contemporary warfare is crucial. These measures can enhance NATO's ISR capabilities, ensuring better support for rapidly changing battlespaces.

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This is a very interesting and thought provoking development…… Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo are reported to be in talks for a potential space merger, and the CEO of Leonardo confirmed talks in public remarks in July. “We are fixing our foundations while assessing strategic alternatives, rethinking the European landscape and evaluating potential consolidation options,” Faury told investors on Wednesday. “The space industry in Europe is undergoing major challenges in Europe and outside of Europe and needs to transform in order to remain competitive against other global players, including some new players,” he added. Faury added that there is an “appetite in Europe at the moment to look at sovereignty,” to create a company with the scale to better compete against non-European players. It seems imperative that the global community have independent and unencumbered access to space for the benefit of all humankind …. which is a simple concept we should all readily embrace. While many challenges remain, this seems a concept that we should together advocate in a spirit of global unity and collaboration. 👍👍

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Stop by Stand #521 at ETTC and learn more about Spectra's rugged information systems, intended for deployment in the harshest environmental conditions. Simply put, Spectra's rugged solutions Capture, Process, and Display your mission-critical data in the harshest environmental conditions. In the air, at sea, on land, and in space; We simplify integration. #ETTC2024 #Aerospace #Defense #RuggedSystems #Innovation #Technology #innovation #MissionSuccess #TechnologyAdvancement #calculex #aerospaceindustry #defenseindustry #defensetechnology #defenseinnovation #military #militarytechnology #nationalsecurity #c5isr #embeddedsystems #ruggedized #aerospace #ai #artificialintelligence #machinelearning #aitech #futuretech #surveillancesystems #airbornesystems #groundsystems #spacesystems #space #sea #calculex #spectra #galleon #argonfds

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🔍 Did you know? The Thales #Live Tactical Engagement Training System offers unparalleled modularity and scalability, providing #military, #police, and #specialforces the capability to simulate an unlimited range of tactical #scenarios. Discover the Episode 2 of our #LandLiveTraining series 🎥 👇

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Ukraine-THALES Belgium 𝗝𝗼𝗶𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗱𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗻𝗲 𝗠𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗹𝗲𝘀 Thales Belgium has signed a MoU with a major Ukrainian defense company to jointly develop and produce Counter-Unmanned Aerial System (C-UAS) missiles. Announced on November 2, 2024, by Ukraine’s Ministry of Strategic Industries, the agreement aims to counter the intensifying threat of drones in Ukraine through locally manufactured, technologically advanced solutions. As drone warfare becomes more prevalent amid the ongoing conflict, these systems are designed to intercept and neutralize UAVs, safeguarding critical infrastructure across the country. The partnership involves the gradual transfer of Thales’ advanced technologies and specialized equipment to Ukraine, enabling the Ukrainian defense sector to develop and sustain C-UAS capabilities independently. This collaboration not only promises immediate support but also empowers Ukraine’s long-term defense autonomy by equipping it with essential manufacturing and technological expertise. Herman Smetanin, Ukraine’s Minister of Strategic Industries, highlighted the importance of Thales’ support during the Russian invasion, emphasizing the framework’s role in facilitating technology transfer and strengthening Ukraine’s defense infrastructure. The partnership with Thales reflects Ukraine's strategy to expand its domestic defense industry, crucially with the aid of a well-established international defense company. “The signed MoU sets up a framework for the joint production of C-UAS missiles...and I am grateful to Thales for supporting Ukraine’s defense in our struggle against Russian armed invasion,” Smetanin stated. The joint production of C-UAS missiles is critical to Ukraine’s air defense strategy, especially as UAV threats to infrastructure increase. With Thales’ expertise, Ukraine aims to accelerate the deployment of these systems, providing an immediate boost to its defensive capabilities. The collaborative effort aligns with NATO and European strategies to reinforce Ukraine’s resilience against regional threats by fostering partnerships that offer swift, adaptive responses to emerging drone technologies. This MoU represents more than a defense procurement; it is a strategic alignment that enhances Ukraine’s defense infrastructure by facilitating high-tech co-production and operational readiness. It also serves as a model for defense collaborations focused on rapid technological advancement and production capabilities in conflict scenarios. Through this partnership, Thales Belgium and Ukraine are poised to build a resilient, adaptive defense infrastructure that can respond to modern aerial threats, strengthening Ukraine’s role in regional security and marking a significant step toward its defense independence. #antidrone https://lnkd.in/dr9pq4ws

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How #expensive is a ticket to orbit ? 💰 🔍 Space is evolving and we all relentlessly repeat that launch cost are decreasing making access to space easier, but putting figures on that trend is not that simple in a domain where prices are not that transparent... I wanted to share here a quick analysis I did of the SpaceX #rideshare public pricing evolution based on their website and #WayBackMachine to try to picture how the launch cost is effectively evolving (SpaceX rideshare representing the major way of getting to orbit for most players of the smallsat market for the past 2 year at least) If we have a look to the figure, an important shift appear around mid-2022 dropping from 1M$/100kg to 600k$/100kg. Several questions that remain open here : - why such #drop in mid-2022? - to what numbers an operational #Starship will bring those curves ? 200k$/100kg? less ? PS 1 : #Warning ! The conclusion of such figures is not and must absolutely not be : "Nice, it cost 6.000$/kg to send my satellite to orbit!". 🚨 This is a very rough price provided by SpaceX for satellites weighing over 50kg, to which you then have to add adaptation equipment (a separation ring costing around 200k€, for example), shipping costs and very often brokering and associated service fees.  And don't forget that we're only talking about “shipping costs” here, if we're making a comparison with your favorite ecommerce store. Then you have to add the contents of the package: the satellite you want to send, its design and construction, the development of its associated software... and then add the costs of communicating with the satellite (unless you're planning to send a brick into orbit, which is not only not very useful, but also not very #sustainable...). All of this adds up to a very complex pricing exercise, especially as missions are still very much a tailored industry, hence the very frequent “it depends” or price-per-kilo indicators that are often rather unrepresentative and highly variable (ok, ok I won't leave you without a number, let's head to the comments for a debate about this number!) Just a quick last note: it's in view of this complexity and uncertainty that we at SpaceLocker offer #turnkey missions: the satellite is ready, you plug in your already containerized experience, and we provide you with a connection link once in orbit! PS 2 : the curve in orange show the number of days between the day of the data point and the closest launch proposed by SpaceX, it is mostly here to show that there is not much correlation between higher prices and shorter lead times. (Here a direct link to SpaceX's booking page if you want to try it by yourselves : https://lnkd.in/eP88zK8k )

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After two super intense days at Eurosatory 2024, I can say that the event is at its best. This year some of the major trends that I have observed include: - a renewed interest of European end-users in heavy hardware like combat vehicles or artillery systems; - more and more companies, both major defence industry players as well as new start-ups, are operating in UAV, UGV and UMS segment as well as C-UAV systems, - the international AI technological race how to utilize artificial intelligence in defense technologies has started. In the world of optics, we have seen new, more powerful yet smaller and lighter thermal imaging detectors, exciting new developments in the analog image intensification technology, and the continued trend of providing the operator ready-to-use information, rather than just raw images. And finally, what was prominent, most of the talks touched on the industry's ability to meet the growing demand for military equipment for Europe in the shortest possible time frame.

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🇫🇷 Thales and Exail are proud to support the French Navy's next-generation mine countermeasures capabilities! In partnership with Exail, Thales has been selected by the French defence procurement agency (DGA) to deliver 8, with an option for 8 additional, Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) for the SLAMF programme. This initiative, aimed at renewing the French Navy's mine warfare capabilities, leverages unmanned technology to enhance safety and efficiency in maritime operations. Equipped with the SAMDIS 600 sonar, these extended versions of the A18-M AUVs from Exail will provide the French Navy with unparalleled detection and classification capabilities, ensuring mission readiness in complex environments. #Thales #Exail #SLAMF #AUV #MineCountermeasures #Euronaval2024 #Euronaval #NavalSuperiority #TrustedIntelligence #MaritimeSecurity Exail DGA - Direction générale de l'armement

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𝙄𝙎𝙇 𝙥𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙗𝙚 𝙖𝙗𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙨𝙪𝙘𝙘𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙛𝙪𝙡 𝘼𝙧𝙞𝙖𝙣𝙚 𝟲 𝙡𝙖𝙪𝙣𝙘𝙝 !   Congratulations to the Ariane 6 community and to our licensee Nexter (now KNDS-France)! 𝙊𝙥𝙩𝙤-𝙥𝙮𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙣𝙞𝙘 𝙙𝙚𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙨 invented, designed, patented and licensed by 𝙄𝙎𝙇 have contributed to make this maiden flight a success. The Ariane launcher family had formerly relied for separation purposes on detonation cords and detonators using primary explosives. They were quite dangerous. This dictated a last-minute mounting onto the launcher directly on the launch pad. 𝙄𝙎𝙇 𝙤𝙥𝙩𝙤-𝙥𝙮𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙣𝙞𝙘 𝙙𝙚𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙨 are activated by light through optical fibres and contain no primary explosives. They are so safe that they can be mounted onto the launcher on its assembly line. This translates into huge savings during each launch campaign. 𝙄𝙎𝙇 𝙤𝙥𝙩𝙤-𝙥𝙮𝙧𝙤𝙩𝙚𝙘𝙝𝙣𝙞𝙘 𝙙𝙚𝙩𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙩𝙤𝙧𝙨 are appropriate for several other use cases, including active protection systems of military vehicles. 𝙄𝙎𝙇 has also one licensee in that domain.

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?Former US Army aviator Ryan Walters shares his thoughts on the Tactical Mission Planner being developed by Thales, which uses explainable and trusted AI tools and promises to be a "game-changer for complex battlespace decision-making". Check out the full interview below, which also links through to a downloadable insight paper focused on this high-potential innovation! ⬇️⬇️

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