By Robbin Laird I had the chance to visit HMS Queen Elizabeth in Scotland as the carrier was being built. During a visit to Portsmouth in late April 2018, I had a chance to see the carrier again and to talk with senior UK Navy and industrial personnel involved in…
The HMS Queen Elizabeth is designed as a fast jet carrier for strike operations but also able to operate assault operations as well. For the assault mission, Leonardo has developed a new variant of the Merlin helicopter. According to a story published on the UK Ministry of Defence website on…
“A world-class missile system that will protect the Royal Navy’s new aircraft carriers has officially entered service, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson has announced on May 24, 2018.” According to a story published on the UK Ministry of Defence website on May 24, 2018: Sea Ceptor provides a powerful shield against…
A key dynamic associated with the strategic shift to higher intensity operations is working airbase defense as well as mobile basing options. With regard to Norway, the new main operating base for F-35s will be at Orland Air Station in central Norway. The Norwegians, along with the US and the…
Recently, an autonomous minesweeper system that can safely clear sea lanes of mines has been delivered to the Royal Navy. According to a news story on the UK Ministry of Defence website published May 5, 2018, the arrival of the new capability was announced. Following a period of successful trials…
By Robbin Laird During my recent visit to Australia, with a clear focus on supporting the Williams Foundation effort to look at strategic transition facing the allied militaries, I had a chance to continue my discussions with Vice Admiral Tim Barrett, Chief of the Royal Australian Navy. The Vice Admiral…
By Robbin Laird Last year, when visiting the Sikorsky West Palm Beach facility, I saw the CH-53K King Stallion being built, which is now in Europe and preparing to fly at the Berlin Air Show. Next month, the first CH-53K will arrive in New River, N.C., for the U.S. Marines…
On Friday, December 15, 2017, Lockheed Martin delivered the 66th F-35 aircraft for the year, meeting the joint government and industry delivery target for 2017. According to a Lockheed Martin press release dated December 18, 2017, the importance of meeting the delivery number was highlighted. On Friday, December 15, Lockheed Martin…
