PICATINNY ARSENAL, N.J. - The Army Contracting Command - New Jersey has issued a Request for Information (RFI) to identify new technologies for the Red Sands Hard Kill Challenge. The initiative, led by U.S. Army Central Command (USARCENT) and the U.S. Army Armaments Center (DEVCOM AC), seeks to accelerate the development of "hard kill" solutions designed to defeat small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) in complex and contested environments.

The effort focuses on countering Group 1-3 drones, which are low-altitude systems that pose an increasing threat to operational forces. The program provides a venue for industry and academia to test innovative solutions in realistic settings, allowing developers to work directly with military personnel to address specific capability gaps. Primary testing is slated for the Red Sands Integrated Experimentation Center in Saudi Arabia, with additional assessments at a domestic location yet to be announced.

This RFI serves as a market research tool to assist the Army in determining its future acquisition strategy. While the notice highlights the military’s priority in fielding counter-drone equipment, officials emphasized that it is for planning purposes only and does not constitute a formal solicitation or an obligation to purchase.

Source: Forecast International
Associated URL: https://sam.gov/workspace/contract/opp/2352faad7d134467ae8131a1e94a6074/view

DALLAS, Tex. -- Lockheed Martin has completed a successful 112-km flight test of its Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) at White Sands Missile Range, marking a key milestone for the Alternative Warhead (AW) rocket variant. The test, fired for the first time from an M270A2 launcher, validated precision, launcher integration, and lethality, and completed system qualification.

The ER GMLRS more than doubles the range of standard GMLRS to 150 km while maintaining established accuracy and reliability. Its added reach expands the mission set, enabling engagement of high-value, time-critical targets across a wider battlespace, including counter-air defense suppression and effects against both point and area targets. Importantly, the weapon is fully compatible with existing launchers, delivering added capability without changes to unit structure or logistics.

Next, soldiers will conduct operational testing in the first half of the year ahead of fielding to the U.S. Army and international partners, amid growing demand in Europe and the Indo-Pacific.

Source: Lockheed Martin
Associated URL: https://news.lockheedmartin.com/2026-02-12-Extended-Range-GMLRS-Achieve-First-M270A2-Launch-and-Completes-AW-System-Qualification-Tests#assets_all
Author: Lockheed Martin 

TALLINN, ESTONIA -- Estonia signed a contract with France and KNDS for the acquisition of 12 additional Caesar self-propelled howitzers, scheduled for delivery later this year.

The systems will be assigned to the newly established 3rd self-propelled artillery battalion under the direct command of the Estonian Division.

Source: Defense Post
Associated URL: https://thedefensepost.com/2026/02/16/estonia-caesar-howitzers/