F-35C Begins Operational Testing Aboard Ford-Class Carrier John F. Kennedy

Today’s defense news features advancements in military aviation and drone technology. The F-35C fighter jet is undergoing operational testing on a new Ford-class carrier, and Honeywell Aerospace has introduced a new counter-drone software system. Additionally, Pratt & Whitney is developing propulsion systems for autonomous combat aircraft, while Starlink service in Ukraine has been restored after speed restrictions. Finally, Russia has reportedly built a new drone attack base in six weeks.

F-35C Begins Testing on USS John F. Kennedy

The F-35C Lightning Two fighter jet has begun operational testing aboard the United States Navy’s newest Ford-class aircraft carrier, the PCU John F. Kennedy. Naval News reports that this marks a significant milestone for the integration of the F-35C with the new carrier design. Beginning October 13, F-35C aircraft embarked on the CVN-79 for launch and recovery operations, utilizing the carrier’s electromagnetic aircraft launch system and advanced arresting gear electromagnetic recovery systems. The John F. Kennedy is slated to enter service in 2027, and this testing ensures its basic functionality with embarked aircraft.

Honeywell Aerospace Unveils New Counter-Drone Software

Honeywell Aerospace has unveiled a new counter-drone software system designed to consolidate data from multiple sensors into a single interface. Defense News reports that the SAMURAI system uses Honeywell’s UNITAS battle management software to integrate sensors and effectors from different manufacturers. This allows operators to view information from disparate sources on one screen, rather than monitoring six, seven, or eight separate displays simultaneously. The system is designed to detect, track, identify, classify, and defeat drones, whether recreational or those used to attack military installations or critical infrastructure.

Pratt & Whitney Develops Propulsion for Autonomous Combat Aircraft

Pratt & Whitney is developing affordable and scalable propulsion systems for autonomous collaborative combat aircraft, marking a significant shift in military engine development. Naval Technology reports that the company is expanding into the autonomous and attritable space, leveraging proven commercial engine technology like their PW500 and PW300 families. Pratt & Whitney is also developing an entirely new family of small engines, the Valox engine family, ranging from 500 to 1,800 pounds of thrust. These engines are designed for rapid development, affordability, and scalable production to address the demand for greater quantities of systems with different mission lives.

Ukraine’s Starlink Service Restored After Speed Restrictions

Starlink internet service in Ukraine has been restored, according to a Defense Ministry source, as reported by The Kyiv Independent. This follows disruptions caused by new speed restrictions that hampered drone missions. The BBC World noted that George Barros from the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said Starlink has become the backbone of military communications in Ukraine. Ukraine is seeking unrestricted operation of military satellite terminals, as current limits of 160 kilometers per hour are insufficient to counter jet-powered Shahed drones, which they say require connectivity at speeds of at least 450 kilometers per hour.

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