🚀 Space and Defense #11

Happy Monday 👋

This week, Iridium launched Certus GMDSS, a product for maritime safety with features like distress alerts and integrated tracking systems. The Australian Defense secured an additional $19.87B for the Hunter-class frigate program. Denmark acquired the Skyranger 30 air defense system in aerial warfare, and Raytheon secured a $197M contract for Coyote interceptors. In space innovation, Kenya partnered with Italy for space tech advancements, and Germany opened LUNA, a simulated lunar research facility. In defense-related funding, Impulse Space raised $150M to boost manufacturing, while D-Orbit raised $166M for space-based cloud computing. Through key acquisitions, Codan Tactical Communications and Neverhack expanded their defense and cybersecurity offerings.

🪖 Defense Tech

🚢 Iridium introduced its new Certus GMDSS(Global Maritime Distress and Safety System). This features distress alerts, a safety voice, and Maritime Safety Information (MSI). It integrates additional services like Long Range Identification and Tracking (LRIT) and Ship Security Alert System (SSAS).

🛡️ The Australian Defense received an additional $19.87B for the Hunter-class frigate program. The addition will support the construction of the first three ships and establishing systems benefiting the entire fleet of six, including infrastructure, combat systems, and training.

🕹️ Oceaneering International was awarded a multi-million dollar contract by the U.S. Department of Defense's Defense Innovation Unit. Oceaneering is to build an autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) and establish a remote operations center for the U.S. Navy, leveraging its expertise from the energy industry.

🔧 The Pentagon launched the Replicator 2 initiative program. This will focus on countering small drones at military installations. Defense Secretary Austin tasked top officials to develop the plan, aiming for enhanced protection within 24 months, pending congressional funding.

⚔️ Aerial Defense Systems

🛩️ Denmark acquired the Skyranger 30 air defense system. This strategic move strengthens national security, modernizes the armed forces, and aligns with NATO's collective defense. The system features a high-velocity autocannon, integrated missile system, and advanced radar, improving defense against aerial threats, including drones.

🎯 Raytheon received a $197M U.S. Army contract for its Coyote interceptors, enhancing the military’s counter-drone capabilities. The Coyote system, which includes kinetic and non-kinetic variants, is crucial in protecting against unmanned aerial threats, including drone swarms. Completion is expected by September 2027.

🚀 South Korea introduced the Hyunmoo-V, the world’s most powerful non-nuclear ballistic missile. It can penetrate fortified facilities by weighing 36 tons with an 8-9 ton warhead. The country plans to deploy over 200 missiles to improve aerial defense.

💥 Taiwan received the first batch of 100 land-based Harpoon anti-ship missile systems from the United States. This is part of a $2.24B defense deal approved in 2020. This includes 400 missiles and will bolster Taiwan's coastal defense. 

📡 Space Innovation

🌍 Kenya strengthened its partnership with Italy to leverage space and emerging technologies for improved public services. The two nations discussed collaboration on space tech, fiber-optic expansion, AI for socio-economic development, and establishing an Italian digital hub in Kenya.

💻 Anduril Industries partnered with Apex to accelerate space system development for the U.S. and its allies. The collaboration uses Apex's satellite buses to enhance capabilities like missile tracking, with plans for future missions featuring advanced data processing and imaging.

🛰️ The German Aerospace Center (DLR) and ESA have launched the LUNA research facility. It features a 700-square-meter simulated lunar surface with Moon dust and lunar geology. Officially opened on September 25, 2024, LUNA will enhance preparations for future lunar missions.

💰 Space Deals

🛸 Impulse Space, a US-based company developing in-space transportation services raised $150M in Series B funding. They plan to enhance their personnel capabilities and support the ongoing manufacturing of both Helios and Mira vehicles.

📡 D-Orbit, an Italy-based space transportation company raised $166M in Series C funding. The funds will be utilized to develop space-based cloud computing and in-orbit servicing technologies.

📻 Codan Tactical Communications acquired Kägwerks, a US-based tactical solutions company, for an undisclosed amount to broaden Codan's offerings, establishing the company as a full-service solutions provider for military and law enforcement communications.

🔒 Neverhack acquired Innovery, a consulting firm focused on cutting-edge ICT and cybersecurity solutions, for an undisclosed amount to reinforce its market leadership in the cybersecurity sector by expanding its presence in Southern Europe and America.

Thank you for reading. Have a great week ahead!
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