Lisa West
Britain is about to have two aircraft carriers at sea
Britain is set to have two aircraft carriers at sea for the first time in over a year, after HMS Queen Elizabeth completed a major maintenance period at Babcock's Rosyth dockyard this week and HMS Prince of Wales is due to sail from Portsmouth this evening.
RAF puts aircraft painting contract out to tender
The MoD has launched a tender for a contract to provide surface finishing and painting services across all RAF fixed and rotary wing aircraft at stations in the UK and overseas, estimated at just under £100 million over a decade.
UK reaffirms F-35 commitment but questions remain over 138
The UK has committed to 138 F-35s "across the life of the programme" but with only 74 planned in total and 48 already delivered, it remains unclear what the 138 figure actually means or when, if ever, it will be reached.
Meteor F-35 integration shows no signs of urgency
The UK has been trying to arm its F-35s with Meteor since 2019. The US-led programme has now pushed the timeline to the early 2030s.
Delayed SPEAR 3 review note set for imminent submission
A long-delayed review note that will formally set out a new timeline for the SPEAR 3 missile programme is close to being submitted for approval.
Army teams up with touring car squad to drive STEM
The British Army has announced a partnership with Speedworks Motorsport for the 2026 British Touring Car Championship season, aimed at promoting technical careers and engaging younger audiences.
UK assessing Aster missile for Mk41 launch system
The Royal Navy is continuing to assess the potential compatibility of the Aster missile with the Mk41 vertical launch system as part of wider efforts to expand missile flexibility.
RAF C-17 lands at world’s northernmost settlement
A Royal Air Force C-17A Globemaster has landed at Canadian Forces Station Alert, the world’s most northerly permanently inhabited settlement, during a joint resupply mission with Canada in the High Arctic.
US warship fires on vessel during blockade enforcement
U.S. forces have disabled an Iranian-flagged cargo vessel in the Arabian Sea after it did not comply with warnings, with the USS Spruance using her five inch gun.
Babcock extends Royal Navy support contract
The extension maintains the full scope of the existing contract, covering ship engineering delivery and management for platforms including Type 23 frigates, amphibious ships, Sandown-class minehunters and landing craft.










