NEW DELHI - India has performed a successful test of an air-launched ballistic missile (ALBM). This ALBM is seen as a counter to Pakistan’s nuclear-armed ballistic missile systems. The ALBM, also known as the Crystal Maze 2, was fired from a Su-30MKI fighter.

The Crystal Maze 2 is a version of the Israeli ROCKS with a range of 250 kilometers. Rafael is the prime contractor for the ROCKS. The ROCKS may have taken part in Israel's recent air strikes on Iran.

India is working to lessen its dependence on Russia for armaments.

Source: Asia Times
Associated URL: https://asiatimes.com/2024/04/india-aims-new-crystal-maze-missile-at-pakistans-nukes/
Author: Steve Holland; Idrees Ali 

HENGELO, the Netherlands -- On April 23, 2024, Thales, the German Navy, and German military procurement agency, BAAINBw (Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support), celebrated the official opening of the extended Thales Testing Center which will serve as a F126 frigate collaboration hub for the three parties as well as other project partners.

The facility will enable prototyping, system validation, integration, and testing, before shipment to Germany, where construction of the frigates takes place.

The opening of this testing center is an important milestone towards the delivery of the first ship, scheduled for 2028.

Source: Thales
Associated URL: https://www.thalesgroup.com/en/worldwide/defence-and-security/press_release/thales-opens-new-system-testing-centre-german-f126
Author: Thales 

RABAT - Morocco is set to host an Israeli drone production facility by BlueBird Aero Systems, despite protests against normalization with Israel. BlueBird's CEO, Ronen Nadir, confirmed the establishment of the facility, which is expected to be operational soon.

Israel Aerospace Industries, a major Israeli defense firm owning 50% of BlueBird, has previously collaborated with Morocco, including a $500 million deal in 2022 for an Israeli missile defense system. Recent developments also include a memorandum of understanding in aeronautics between the two nations, indicating deeper strategic and economic cooperation.

Despite domestic opposition and ongoing regional tensions, particularly concerning Western Sahara, Morocco continues to strengthen its military ties with Israel, evidenced by its plans to enhance its drone capabilities and other military assets. This move is part of Morocco's broader strategy to maintain strong defense capabilities amid its conflict with Algeria and the Polisario Front.

Source: The New Arab
Associated URL: https://www.newarab.com/news/morocco-host-israeli-drone-site-amid-anti-israel-uproar