Helicopters

The global Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-UAS) market is undergoing a significant strategic pivot toward diversifying and operationalizing kinetic effectors.

Arrow 4, Israel's next-generation ballistic missile interceptor, is entering live trials in mid-2026 as the first Western system operationally designed for hypersonic defense. Developed jointly by Israel's IMDO and the U.S. Missile Defense Agency with IAI as prime, Arrow 4 introduces new maneouvering capabilities enabled by winglets and aerodynamic control surfaces. The system features AI-enhanced technology to intercept maneuverable re-entry vehicles MRV/MRV and maneuverable targets (MaRV) threats, some of which were already encountered during 2024-2025 Iranian and Houthi attacks.

Israel's David's Sling air defense system has successfully completed an advanced test series incorporating combat lessons from recent operations. The trials, conducted by the Israeli Missile Defense Organization with the U.S. Missile Defense Agency and Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, validated upgrades enabling engagement of diverse threats including ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, aircraft, and UAVs. The system demonstrated high performance during recent conflict, with real-time modifications implemented during Operation Rising Lion. David's Sling operates as a critical medium-to-long-range layer within Israel's integrated air defense architecture alongside Iron Dome, Arrow, and Iron Beam systems.

Abstract Rafael Systems Global Sustainment has been selected for Phase 1 of the U.S. Army's Indirect Fire Protection Capability Increment 2 (IFPC Inc 2) Second Interceptor program, managed by the SHIELD Project Office under the Portfolio Acquisition Executive for Fires. The program will provide 360-degree protection for fixed and semi-fixed sites against cruise missiles, UAS, rockets, artillery, and mortars through a layered defense architecture. Rafael will adapt proven Iron Dome technology, originally designed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, using advanced modeling and simulation to address subsonic and supersonic cruise missile threats.

Visiting the UMEX & SimTEX 2026 exhibition taking place at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi this week, a new system caught our attention. Slovenian company Carboteh has introduced an unconventional approach to protecting...