Naval Ships and Operating Systems
USS Gerald R. Ford

USS Gerald R. Ford

Source: US Navy


U.S. DEPLOYS USS GERALD R. FORD TO THE CARIBBEAN
Tuesday, October 28, 2025
USS Gerald R. Ford

USS Gerald R. Ford

Source: US Navy


WASHINGTON, D.C. -- In the latest in a growing series of military deployments in the region, the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier has been sent from Europe to the Caribbean, the Navy announced on Friday, Oct. 24. The carrier, one of the most advanced in the world, will support the administration's ongoing airstrike campaign targetting alleged narcotics smugglers in the area. So far, U.S. forces in the region have undertaken over a dozen strikes on small boats supposedly involved in the international drug trade.

The Gerald R. Ford will likely support ongoing strikes and provide a flag option for operational leadership. The carrier can embark upwards of 75 fixed-wing aircraft, which will likely be used to target small boats and possibly land sites involved in manufacturing and supporting the narcotics trade. The deployment is a show of force to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, a U.S. adversary whom President Trump has alleged is deeply involved in the regional narcotics trade. As of August 2025, the U.S. has offered a $50 million bounty on President Maduro, due to his supposed ties to the Cartel of the Suns.

 
French Future Aircraft Carrier PA-NG

French Future Aircraft Carrier PA-NG

Source: Naval Group


FRANCE TO ORDER THIRD AIRCRAFT CARRIER ELECTROMAGNETIC LAUNCH SYSTEM
Monday, October 27, 2025
French Future Aircraft Carrier PA-NG

French Future Aircraft Carrier PA-NG

Source: Naval Group


PARIS -- The French Navy's 2026 draft budget has revealed funding for a third electromagnetic aircraft launch system (EMALS) catapult track planned for installation on the country's future aircraft carrier. The future flagship, currently dubbed the Porte-Avions Nouvelle Generation (PA-NG), will be the first French carrier with the advanced EMALS system, similar to those used on the U.S. Gerald Ford class.

The EMALS system, which replaces the traditional steam catapults used on aircraft carriers, uses electromagnetic fields to accelerate an aircraft along a launcher track. The new system allows for improved acceleration, reduced frame stress, and greater launch power, enabling the deployment of heavier aircraft. The PA-NG carrier is expected to carry Dassault Rafale M fighter jets.

Source: Defense Post
Associated URL: https://thedefensepost.com/2025/10/27/france-orders-third-emals/
Author: Jodesz Gavilan 
 

Source: Kongsberg


KONGSBERG SHARPENS FOCUS ON DEFENSE, SPINS OFF MARITIME BUSINESS
Thursday, October 30, 2025

Source: Kongsberg


KONGSBERG, Norway -- Kongsberg Gruppen ASA has announced plans to restructure its operations by creating two independent, publicly listed companies, aimed at sharpening strategic focus across its business segments. Under the proposal, Kongsberg Maritime will be spun off and listed separately on the Euronext Oslo Stock Exchange, while Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and Kongsberg Discovery will be merged into a single, consolidated defense and technology group that will retain the Kongsberg name.

The proposed reorganization reflects the company’s response to continued global demand for security and sustainable technologies, which have driven growth in recent years. Kongsberg said the two entities have reached sufficient financial strength and scale to operate independently, with revenues and workforce now roughly balanced between them.

The maritime business will continue to focus on its core technology and integrated systems for commercial and naval vessels, while the consolidated Kongsberg entity will center on defense, surveillance, and dual-use technology markets. Both companies will remain headquartered in Norway and continue to collaborate where commercially beneficial.

Kongsberg defense portfolio includes the NASAMS air defense system, the Joint Strike Missile (JSM) and Naval Strike Missile (NSM) programs - key assets in several NATO arsenals - as well as command-and-control systems, space technologies, and F-35 support. The company is also involved in ongoing modernization programs for the Norwegian Armed Forces and continues to expand its global partnerships, including work with the United States and European defense industries. These programs will form the foundation of the new consolidated Kongsberg entity, anchoring its role as a key contributor to NATO-aligned defense capabilities.

The new Kongsberg Maritime, will focus on advancing integrated solutions and digital technologies for the global maritime and offshore industries. Its operations span propulsion, automation, and dynamic positioning systems, as well as sensor technologies and autonomous vessel solutions. The company plays a key role in supporting maritime decarbonization through energy-efficient ship systems and digital platforms that enhance operational performance and sustainability.

The demerger will be executed through a direct share distribution to existing shareholders, with one share in the new maritime company issued for each Kongsberg share held. The Norwegian government, which remains the largest shareholder, has expressed support for the plan. Trading in Kongsberg Maritime shares is expected to begin in the second quarter of 2026.

Leadership changes accompanying the move include Lisa Edvardsen Haugan becoming CEO of the new Kongsberg Maritime and Mette Toft Bjørgen serving as its CFO. Eirik Lie will take over as CEO of Kongsberg Gruppen following completion of the demerger.

The Norwegian state, which holds a 50% stake in the company, has expressed its support for the proposed transaction. The move follows a period of significant growth, with the group tripling its operating revenues since 2016 and now employing 15,000 people. The number of employees, revenue, and results are now relatively evenly distributed between the two companies. Both have reached a size and financial robustness that enables them to operate independently, the company said.

The restructuring marks one of the most significant corporate reorganizations in Norway’s industrial sector in recent years. It positions Kongsberg to better align with global defense modernization and maritime decarbonization trends, enabling each business to pursue targeted growth strategies amid shifting geopolitical and technological landscapes.

Source: Forecast International
Associated URL: https://wp.me/panfbz-6M3
 

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