In the News

Leonardo DRS CEO on European Defense Spending and Inflation

BreakingDefense.com - August 15, 2022 - In the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, defense budgets in the US and Europe have increased dramatically, with companies on both sides of the Atlantic looking to cash in. As CEO of Leonardo DRS, the American arm of Italian giant Leonardo, William Lynn III has a unique view on the state of industrial cooperation between Washington and the European capitals.

Leonardo DRS Chief Talks Taking Out Drone Swarms and What Integrated Sensing has in Common with Tesla

Defensenews.com - July 25, 2022 - FARNBOROUGH, England — Defense electronics firm Leonardo DRS in June moved to bolster its position in the military’s force protection market when it announced plans to acquire Israeli radar company RADA Electronics Industries.

Future of autonomous flight comes into focus at Farnborough Airshow

Defensenews.com - July 22, 2022 - FARNBOROUGH, England — The future of defense aviation is autonomous, aerospace industry leaders repeatedly said at twin air shows in England this month — and it’s arriving soon.

U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall has made it a top priority for the service to increasingly use autonomous aircraft — that is, an unmanned aerial vehicle, or UAV, that uses technology like artificial intelligence to manage its missions.

At UK Airshow, Defense Execs Warn of Inflation, Supply Chains, and Worker Shortages

Defenseone.com - July 19, 2022 - FARNBOROUGH, England — You couldn't tell from the maskless throngs packing railcars, exhibit halls, and evening receptions for the 2022 Farnborough Airshow that the coronavirus, which canceled the previous edition of this sprawling biennial show, is mounting its third major wave of the year. But in the air-conditioned chalets stacked along the flight line at Farnborough Airport, executives focused on how the pandemic is still very much affecting the aerospace and defense industry. Worker shortages, record inflation, and a broken global supply chain dominated the discussions among large firms, smaller suppliers, and government leaders.

The Air Force and JTT-NG: A Situational Awareness Match Made in Heaven

Air Force Magazine - September 1, 2021 -- Leonardo DRS has developed the world’s smallest and most capable integrated broadcast service (IBS) solution in what is the new Joint Tactical Terminal (JTT-NG). With more capability packed into a smaller form, the system represents the best long-term solution for the Air Force in terms of performance and IBS connectivity.

Contractor to Upgrade Joint Force Radios by 2025

National Defense Magazine - July 22, 2021 -- A Virginia-based defense contractor will provide a smaller, faster radio system with upgraded capabilities to the U.S. military in the next four years. Leonardo DRS revealed its new technology, the next-generation joint tactical terminal, in June. The system is 60 percent lighter and smaller than the legacy terminal it produced for the joint force in recent years, according to company officials. The integrated broadcast service transceiver provides near real-time battlespace awareness of millions of threat and survivor tracking reports daily and will be used for planning and executing missions. Production orders will start in July 2022 and continue through 2027. The Army awarded Leonardo DRS $250 million for the effort.

New Air Combat Training System Highlights Need to Speed Modernization of Ranges

Forbes - June 29, 2021 -- America’s global military power rests upon twin pillars of training and technology. U.S. forces are the most rigorously trained and best equipped in the world. In recent years, the two pillars have tended to intertwine as digital technologies enabled breakthrough approaches to training. Nowhere is this more true than in the case of air combat training.

Army Fields First Anti-Aircraft Strykers In Just 3 Years

Breaking Defense - April 2021 Army frontline air defenses ended decades of neglect this week when it delivered the first four operational Stryker anti-aircraft vehicles to Germany. The Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense (MSHORAD) Strykers are armored 8×8 vehicles fitted with an autocannon and a missile launcher capable of firing Hellfires or Stingers. They will replace the less well-armed, less mobile, and more vulnerable Avengers, a 1980s-vintage variant of the 4×4 Humvee that can only fire Stingers.

Defeating Small Drones: The U.S. Army’s Next Big Challenge

RealClearDefense - March 18, 2021 -- The proliferation of armed unmanned aircraft systems (UASs), also known as drones, presents a growing threat to maneuver ground forces, headquarters, logistics and critical infrastructure. This is particularly true for the explosion in the availability of small, increasingly sophisticated UASs. While the Pentagon has invested significant resources to address the challenge posed by medium and large drones as part of its air and missile defense program, it is only beginning to deal with the growing danger of small drones, particularly to military vehicles and dismounted formations.

What the Defense Industry is Seeing and Saying About the Election

Defense News - November 3, 2020 ― Anyone will tell you this is the most important election in U.S. history ― unless they happen to run a major American defense firm.

Army Vehicle Modernization: Mounted Mission Command and Onboard Power

Breaking Defense - October 16, 2020 — Battlefield technologies—from combat management systems and vehicle power generation to cyber-hardened network computing for C4I—are at the top of the Army’s modernization priorities. Leonardo DRS has been one of the Army’s best providers of these systems, with recent contract awards from the Army and foreign allies.

After Some Big Wins, Leonardo DRS Puts Shared Focus On Growth And Execution

Defense Daily - October 16, 2020 ― Following some major contract wins the past two years and stellar growth during that period, Leonardo DRS has been shifting some of its attention to executing on the relatively new work as it begins to transition to production, William “Bill” Lynn, the company’s CEO, said last week.

The Army Mission Command Computing System That You Don’t Know

Breaking Defense - October 15, 2020 -- The Army’s mission command computing system, called the Mounted Family of Computer Systems II (MFoCS II), is familiar to many, performing as promised. Part of Army network modernization efforts under Program Executive Office Command, Control and Communications–Tactical (PEO C3T) and Program Manager, Mission Command, MFoCS II is a family of common computing and display systems that consolidates a range of programs and military computing users.

Intelligence, Cyber, and EW Evolve for All-Domain Operations

Breaking Defense - October 13, 2020 -- The Defense Department has begun implementing a vision for what it calls All-Domain Operations, which intertwine the five warfighting domains—land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace—in a way that battle data is shared instantly over secure networks and out to the tactical edge. 

Army Modernization’s Day of Reckoning Is at Hand

Real Clear Defense - October 13, 2020 -- For the past four years, the U.S. Army’s modernization campaign has been driving forward at warp speed. Over this period, the Army has stood up a new major command, Army Futures Command. It has kickstarted 31 programs (plus two enabling capabilities) across six modernization priorities, each managed by a Cross-Functional Team (CFT). It has formulated a new operational concept called Multi-Domain Operations. Finally, it has demonstrated the ability to rapidly move programs from concept to initial fielding.

DefAero Report Daily Podcast – Interview with Leonardo DRS’ Bill Lynn

Defense & Aerospace Report - October 12, 2020 On this episode of the DefAero Report Daily Podcast, Bill Lynn, former deputy US defense secretary who is now president and CEO of Leonardo DRS, discusses operating in the time of COVID, company priorities, the current budget environment, moving fast and great power competition. 

Art Therapy is Helping Young Patients in Military Families Better Cope with their Illnesses

Breaking Defense - May 2020 -- Trying to navigate a difficult medical diagnosis can be challenging for anyone, especially for children and young adults. Suddenly, they find themselves confined to a world stripped of all normalcy, their former lives reduced to medical procedures, to isolating and sometimes painful experiences, leaving them struggling to find their footing amid a sea of healthcare professionals.

Navy Asks DRS Laurel to Provide Ethernet Shipboard Networking Equipment for Arleigh Burke-Class Destroyers

Military & Aerospace Electronics - May 2020 -- U.S. Navy shipboard electronics experts are asking Leonardo DRS to provide high-speed Ethernet fiber-optic shipboard networking equipment installation and repair for the latest versions of the Arleigh Burke-class guided missile destroyers.

The Color of Heat: How Quantum Cascade Lasers Solve the Navy’s SWaP Problem in Protecting Helicopters

Breaking Defense - May 2020 -- "In many ways, it's magical." A new laser technology has found its way into commercial production that solves the size, weight, and power concerns of traditional helicopter countermeasure systems.

Power Supplies Grapple with Open Systems, and the Need for More Power

Military & Aerospace Electronics - May 1, 2020 -- Electrical power aboard military ships, planes, combat vehicles, and command posts typically is a design afterthought, and rarely gets widespread consideration alongside headliners like laser weapons, computerized avionics, and hypersonic weapons.

"Energy Magazine" Gives the Navy Power for Shipboard Lasers and Other High-Energy Systems

Breaking Defense - April 2020 -- The Navy is at a tipping point with regard to electrical power. Most shipboard generators are already maxed out providing power for systems like cooling pumps, heating/ventilation/air conditioning chillers and fans, lighting, and defensive systems like radar, sonar, and electronic countermeasures.

U.S. Air Force, Navy to Train Pilots As They Will Fight

RealClearDefense - April 11, 2020 -- It is now an axiom in the military profession that you should train as if it is certain you will be on the front lines. The U.S. Air Force and Navy learned this lesson the hard way more than fifty years ago in the skies over North Vietnam. In the early years of the Vietnam War, the United States suffered unexpected losses in air-to-air combat due largely to the lack of adequate training. In response, the Air Force and Navy completely revamped the training system, creating special air warfare schools and advanced training ranges. These innovations worked so well that by the time of Desert Storm, even new pilots were able to conduct complex missions with a high degree of proficiency and even score an impressive number of air-to-air kills.

Leonardo DRS vetronics rugged computers declared standard gear on the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV)

Military & Aerospace Electronics - March 2020 -- WARREN, Mich. – U.S. Army vetronics experts have declared a common family of rugged vehicle-mount computers from the Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit in Melbourne, Fla., to be standard equipment on the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV) for the Army and U.S. Marine Corps.

U.S. Army to Soon Wrap Up Early Testing of Short-Range Air Defense System

Defense News - March 2020 — The U.S. Army will wrap up developmental testing of its Interim Maneuver Short-Range Air Defense (IM-SHORAD) system by June, paving the way for operational testing in the fall ahead of fielding, according to Col. Chuck Worshim, program manager for cruise missile defense systems with the Army’s Program Executive Office Missiles and Space.

VIDEO: How Leonardo DRS is addressing DoD priorities

GovMatters.tv - March 24, 2020 -- Bill Lynn, CEO of Leonardo DRS, discusses with Government Matters how the company is addressing DoD priorities through investments.

Leonardo DRS Readying For Next Phases Of Two Army Maneuver Air Defense Programs

Defense Daily - March 2020 -- Leonardo DRS is readying to move forward on integration efforts for two major Army maneuver air defense programs later this summer, pending delays due the coronavirus, including a production award for the Interim Maneuver-Short Range Air Defense (IM-SHORAD) platform.

VIDEO: Interview with Leonardo DRS's Bill Lynn

Air Force Times - December 23, 2019 -- Executive editor Jill Aitoro speaks with Leonardo DRS's Bill Lynn at the Reagan National Defense Forum.

VIDEO: Leonardo DRS’ Lynn on AUSA Highlights, Futures Command, Defense Budget Outlook, Cyber

Defense & Aerospace Report - October 16, 2019 -- Bill Lynn, the CEO of Leonardo DRS who served as the deputy defense secretary, discusses the company’s highlights at the Association of the United States Army’s 2019 conference and tradeshow, working with Futures Command, the defense budget outlook and improving cyber security with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian.

VIDEO: Get a Look at the Army's New Mobile Short Range Air Defense Vehicle

Navy Times - October 15, 2019 -- One thing on the AUSA floor was Leonardo DRS's mobile SHORAD vehicle, based on a Stryker platform. Jeff Martin walks us through its capabilities.

Leonardo DRS, Rafael Deliver Initial TROPHY Active Protection Systems To Army

Defense Daily - October 2019 -- Leonardo DRS and Israel’s Rafael have delivered the Army’s first order of TROPHY active protection systems (APS) to be integrated on Abrams tanks, the companies said Friday.

Rafael’s Lighter Trophy System Included in OMFV Bid

Janes - October 14, 2019 -- Rafael’s lighter version of Trophy Active Protection System (APS) is included in a bid sample for the US Army’s Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV) prototyping competition, an effort to replace its M2 Bradley Fighting Vehicle.

Leonardo DRS Prepares for Aircraft-Protection Laser Testing

Janes - October 2019 -- Leonardo DRS is preparing for Initial Operational Test and Evaluation for its quantum cascade laser, having reached the requisite high technology readiness level and demonstrated the system’s ability to protect helicopters from missile attacks, Eric Takeuchi, vice president of business development for DRS Daylight Solutions, said during the annual Association of the United States Army conference in Washington, DC.

Leonardo DRS Eyes U.S. Army Requirements for OBVP Power System

Janes - October 2019 -- Leonardo DRS hopes to see US Army requirements established soon for its On-Board Vehicle Power (OBVP) system to help push the technology into service more quickly.

U.S. Army Awards Infrared Weapon Sights to Leonardo DRS

Janes - October 2019 -- The US Army awarded Leonardo DRS a USD 89 million contract to produce advanced infrared weapon sights, the company confirmed on 15 October. The follow-on delivery order is part of an existing Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity contract to supply soldiers with the Family of Weapon Sight-Individual (FWS-I) technology. The Leonardo DRS Electro-Optical Infrared Systems business is currently in production of the advanced, uncooled FWS-I, which is a stand-alone, clip-on weapon sight that connects wirelessly to helmet-mounted vision systems including Enhanced Night Vision Goggle (ENVG III), Enhanced Night Vision Goggle-Binocular (ENVG-B), and the next-generation Integrated Visual Augmentation System (IVAS) and provides rapid target acquisition capabilities to the soldier. Work for the contract is expected to continue through 2023 in the company’s Electro-Optical Infrared Systems facility in Melbourne, Florida.

GDLS Showcasing IM-SHORAD Prototype

Janes - October 2019 -- General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) has begun delivering Interim Maneuver Short-Range Air Defence (IM-SHORAD) prototypes to the US Army and will display one at this year’s annual AUSA meeting.

IM-SHORAD Paves the Way for Rapid Prototyping Efforts

Shepard Media - October 2019 -- With General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) showcasing the Initial Maneuver Short-Range Air Defence (IM-SHORAD) Stryker solution for the first time at AUSA the effort demonstrates how rapid prototyping is becoming a key capability in itself for the US Army.

Leonardo and Rafael Deliver First Protection Systems for U.S. Tanks

Australian Defence Magazine - October 2019 -- Leonardo and Rafael have delivered the first Trophy Active Protection Systems (APS) to defend the US Army’s Abrams main battle tanks. This delivery marks the first of several that will ultimately outfit four brigades of tanks. Under contracts awarded last year on an urgent needs basis by the Army’s Program Executive Office for Ground Combat Systems, the companies are equipping front-line M1 Abrams tanks for both the US Army and Marine Corps with their first APS systems.

Leonardo DRS to Supply Thermal Imagery Technology for U.S. Army’s CROWS

Army Technology - October 2019 -- Leonardo DRS has been awarded a contract to supply advanced thermal imagery technology for the U.S. Army’s remote combat vehicle weapon stations.

RAFAEL and Leonardo Deliver First Trophy Systems to U.S.

iHLS - October 2019 -- Leonardo DRS and RAFAEL Advanced Defense Systems of Israel delivered on time the first Trophy Active Protection Systems (APS) for tanks and armored combat vehicles to defend the U.S. Army’s Abrams main battle tanks against a variety of anti-armor threats.  This delivery marks the first of several that will ultimately outfit four brigades of tanks.

How the Army Can Reduce Risk on Vehicle Program Development

Breaking Defense - October 2019 -- The Army wants its Next Generation Combat Vehicle (NGCV) program to provide a transformational leap in battlefield capability, including the ability for armored vehicles to operate autonomously and in manned/unmanned teaming arrangements. A centerpiece to this modernization effort is the Optionally Manned Fighting Vehicle (OMFV), the Army’s top ground vehicle modernization program.

Vehicle Platform Integration: Where Technologies Become Capabilities

Breaking Defense - October 2019 -- In this era of new acquisition for ground vehicles, the Army continues to challenge industry to anticipate emerging requirements, develop required technologies, and field combat capabilities more quickly through rapid prototyping. The key to actually putting those technologies and capabilities in the hands of warfighters is successfully integrating them on existing or developmental platforms. 

How Active Protection Systems Knock Down Anti-Armor Threats for Both Legacy and Future Combat Vehicles

Breaking Defense - October 2019 -- If there’s one thing that Army leadership agrees upon, it’s the need for improved survivability of soldiers and machines against modern anti-tank weapons like the Russian Kornet and Chinese HJ-8 guided missiles, as well as Russia’s tandem warhead RPG-29 rocket propelled grenade that can bore a hole into a tank with a molten jet of metal. These weapons are readily available, inexpensive, and easy to use, which has led to proliferation in combat zones in Iraq, Syria, Libya, Lebanon, Gaza, and throughout Africa and Asia. As such, they pose serious threats to U.S. armored vehicles.

Army M1 Tanks Are Getting the Ability to Locate and Destroy Enemy Missiles

Military Advantage - October 11, 2019 -- U.S. Army M1 tanks will soon be equipped with anti-missile protection systems, now that the service has taken delivery of the Israeli-made active protection systems.

PARIS AIR SHOW NEWS: After Losing T-X Competition, Leonardo DRS Landing Big Contracts

National Defense Magazine - June 20, 2019 -- Leonardo DRS saw disappointment last year when it lost out on the Air Force’s lucrative T-X jet trainer program to a Boeing-Saab team. But the company recently won some major contracts for other Pentagon programs, and its chief executive officer sees more growth opportunities ahead.

SOCOM Sticks With Leonardo For Commercial Satcom

Breaking Defense - May 31, 2019 WASHINGTON -- Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is sticking with its long-time provider of commercial satellite communications, Leonardo DRS, after an open competition for up to $977 million in contract awards over five years. Leonardo DRS is the US arm of Italian aerospace and defense firm Leonardo, with a market capital value of $6.9 billion. The firm holds a majority share in satellite operator Telespazio and a minority share in Thales Alenia Space that manufactures satellites.

Tactical Communications For JSS

Janes - May 30, 2019 -- Leonardo DRS (Booth 1511) has announced that its Canadian subsidiary, DRS Technologies Canada Ltd (DRS TCL), will be providing tactical integrated communications systems to Seaspan’s Vancouver Shipyards for the Royal Canadian Navy’s Joint Support Ship (JSS) programme.

Leonardo DRS Sees Future in Survivability Systems

Rotor & Wing - May 29, 2019 -- Leonardo DRS has developed a suite of aircraft survivability systems that the company believes represent a significant growth area. "The survivability piece is relatively fresh and growing,” Bill Lynn, CEO of Leonardo DRS, said in a May 28 phone interview. Lynn is a former U.S. Defense Department controller and deputy defense secretary and a longtime industry executive who has headed Leonardo DRS since 2012.

DRS Laurel Technologies Parent Celebrating Golden Anniversary

The Tribune Democrat - May 14, 2019 -- Through a half-century of growth, name changes, acquisitions and consolidation, Leonardo DRS has transformed from a two-man operation called Diagnostic/Retrieval Systems into a multi-billion-dollar, international company with almost 6,000 employees working at 27 locations, including a facility in Richland Township.

VIDEO: Leonardo DRS’ Lynn on 2018 Results, Market Outlook, Programs, 50th Anniversary

Defense & Aerospace Report - May 13, 2019 -- Bill Lynn, former US deputy defense secretary who is now the president and CEO of Leonardo DRS, talks about the company’s 2018 earnings, market outlook, programs and company’s 50th anniversary with Defense & Aerospace Report Editor Vago Muradian. The interview was conducted at the Navy League’s 2019 Sea Air Space conference and tradeshow outside Washington.

Defense Contractor with FWB Facility Celebrates 50th Anniversary

NWF Daily News - May 11, 2019 FORT WALTON BEACH — As the United States shifts its defense strategy from wars in Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria, Libya and elsewhere toward a “great power” strategy focused on Russia and China, the CEO of a defense contractor with facilities in Fort Walton Beach says the company isn’t particularly concerned about the change in direction.

VIDEO: Could Hybrid-Electric Drive Systems Become More Prevalent?

Defense News - May 9, 2019 -- Defense News's Sarah Sicard talks with John Baylouny, COO of Leonardo DRS about the expansion of hybrid-electric drive systems on naval ships.

Army Taps Leonardo DRS for its Vehicle-Based Infrared Sensors

Military Embedded Systems - April 3, 2019 -- ARLINGTON, Va. - U.S Army officials selected Leonardo DRS Inc. for a $67 million contract to deliver vehicle-based infrared sensors for surveillance and fire control systems for a variety of ground combat vehicles.

US Army Needs Another Year to Pick Protection System for Stryker

Defense News - April 3, 2019 - April 3, 2019 — The U.S. Army plans to take another year to pick an Active Protection System for its Stryker combat vehicle, according to the military deputy to the Army acquisition chief.

DRS to provide rugged tablet computers with trusted computing for battlefield command & control

Military and Aerospace Electronics - April 3, 2019 SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. – U.S. military command and control experts needed rugged computers to upgrade military vehicles and command posts. They found their solution from Leonardo DRS Land Electronics business unit in Melbourne, Fla. Leonardo DRS officials today announced their company's first production delivery order for the next-generation of U.S. Army mission command computing systems called the Mounted Family of Computer Systems (MFoCS) II.

Leonardo DRS to deliver SG-FLIR kits for US Army combat vehicles

Army Technology Magazine - April 1, 2019 -- The US Army has awarded a contract to Leonardo DRS for the delivery of second-generation forward-looking infrared (SG-FLIR) sights for combat vehicles. Valued at $67m, the fixed-price contract will see the delivery of infrared sensors that support surveillance and fire control systems for several ground combat vehicles.

Leonardo DRS receives MSD V4 systems contract

Shepard Media - March 29, 2019 -- Leonardo DRS has received a contract from the US Army to provide ruggedized next-generation maintenance and testing systems, the company announced on 26 March. The five-year, up to $292 million IDIQ contract will see the company provide Maintenance Support Device Version 4 (MSD V4) Rugged and Semi-Rugged kits to assess and verify the functions of wheeled and tracked vehicles, communications systems, aviation, missiles, artillery and other complex weapons systems.

Industry Touts Advanced Power Systems for Navy Ships

National Defense - March 18, 2019 -- Defense contractors are investing in alternative propulsion and power systems as the Navy develops and upgrades its fleet of warships. Leonardo DRS, which is currently building its second generation hybrid-electric propulsion system for the Coast Guard’s new offshore patrol cutter, is touting its technology as the wave of the future.

Leonardo DRS is latest defense contractor making major expansion in Brevard

Florida Today - December 3, 2018 -- WASHINGTON -- Leonardo DRS Inc. is undergoing a major expansion on the Space Coast, adding 40,000 square feet and hiring at least 100 workers, many of them engineers, over the next year. The defense contractor's expansion at its Babcock Street location in Melbourne is  further evidence of U.S. and global military and aerospace spending fueling the Space Coast economy. The expansion work at Leonardo DRS, which has three business units in Brevard County, is scheduled for completion next summer. M.H. Williams Construction Group is the project contractor.

Leonardo DRS to deliver P5 training subsystems

Shepard Media - November 21, 2018 -- Leonardo DRS has received a contract from Cubic Global Defense to deliver more than 500 P5 combat training system (P5CTS) internal subsystems for the F-35 Lightning II air combat training system, the company announced on 16 November. Leonardo DRS’ airborne and intelligence systems business unit designs, produces and supports the P5CTS internal subsystems component of the F-35's air combat training system.

Leonardo DRS Introduces New Commercial Air Handler

The News - October 8, 2018 -- The commercial modular air handling unit was developed by Leonardo DRS’ Marlo Coil business. The system features pre-engineered modules that can be configured to meet the needs of office buildings, retail spaces, manufacturing facilities, and other commercial buildings, with output ranges from 8,000 to 24,000 cfm. The unit can be shipped fully assembled or as individual modules, allowing for simplified transport to and through a building. Suitable for retrofit and new construction applications, the unit has a thermally efficient wall system, featuring galvanized steel wall panels with 2-inch-thick polyurethane foam insulation, integral thermal breaks, and full-perimeter, double-sealed gaskets. The frames are made of military-grade extruded aluminum, and the base system is constructed of 10-gauge stainless steel. Configurable components include air intake, filter, door, heating, cooling, and fan modules, plus a Stratomizer® dampered face and bypass coil that preheats and tempers outside air, protecting against freezing.

300 Shots: Rafael Readies Trophy Lite For US Stryker

Breaking Defense - September 25, 2018 -- The latest version of Israel's Trophy defense system stopped more than 95 percent of roughly 300 missiles and rockets shot at it in Israeli tests this summer, laying the groundwork for US Army testing this fall on the 8x8 Stryker armored vehicle.

US Army’s interim short-range air defense solution crystallizes

Defense News - June 28, 2018 -- WASHINGTON -- The U.S. Army’s interim short-range air defense system, that will urgently fill a capability gap identified in the European theater just a few short years ago, has crystallized. The Army had already decided the Interim Maneuver-Short-Range Air Defense System (IM-SHORAD) system would be developed around its Stryker combat vehicle, but it has now chosen Leonardo DRS to supply a mission equipment package that will include Raytheon’s Stinger vehicle missile launcher, Col. Chuck Worshim, program manager for cruise missile defense systems with the Army’s Program Executive Office Missiles and Space, told Defense News in a June 28 interview.

Leonardo Wins Big Contract for Next-gen Computing System

C4ISRnet - June 7, 2018 -- WASHINGTON -- Leonardo DRS has won a five-year indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract worth as much as $841.3 million to produce the U.S. Army mission commands next-generation combat computing system, the company announced June 7. Known as the Mounted Family of Computer Systems II (MFoCS), the systems will be upgraded to support the Army’s joint battle command–platform, and will feature critical system capability upgrades, cybersecurity enhancements and multi-touch displays. The technology will enhance the Army’s tactical situational awareness, global “blue force tracking” and in-transit visibility logistics tracking capabilities.

DRS Receives $842 Million Deal To Deliver New Rugged Tablets For Army Battle Command Platform

Defense Daily - May 29, 2018 -- The Army is moving forward on its effort to update its battle command platform with a nearly $850 million deal to Leonardo’s DRS for an updated set of modular rugged computers to meet new integration requirements, the Pentagon said May 25. DRS Network & Imaging Systems LLC received a potential 10-year, $842 million contract to provide the next set of Mounted Family of Computer Systems (MFoCS), which will utilize dismountable tablets to run the Army’s Joint Battle Command-Platform (JBC-P). 

Incumbent gets replaced in US Navy contract for anti-ship missile tracking

Defense News - May 8, 2018 -- WASHINGTON ― The U.S. Navy has awarded DRS Laurel Technologies, a division of Leonardo DRS, a $64.3 million firm fixed-price contract for the delivery of 59 AN/SPQ-9B radars and associated equipment.

Leonardo DRS Unveils 10-Micron Thermal Camera Core

Unmanned Systems Technology - April 18, 2018 -- Leonardo DRS has announced the launch of its new Tenum 640 thermal imager, the first uncooled 10-micron thermal camera core on the market for original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Army details timeline for Short Range Air Defense system contract and prototype

Defense News - March 29, 2018 -- HUNTSVILLE, Ala. — The U.S. Army plans to be fully under contract for mission equipment packages to transform its Stryker combat vehicles into maneuverable Short Range Air Defense, or SHORAD, systems by August with prototypes expected the following spring. The timeline was detailed during an interview with Col. Chuck Worshim, project manager for cruise missile defense systems with the Army’s Program Executive Office Missiles and Space, who spoke to Defense News at the Association of the U.S. Army’s Global Force Symposium.

The Army expects to roll out a new targeting system that can turn artillery into a 'giant sniper rifle' this year

Business Insider - January 2, 2018 -- The Army expects its new Joint Effects Targeting System — a handheld, portable device for target observation, location, and designation — to start arriving with forward-observation teams by mid-2018, according to Army Times.

Army upgrades ruggedized vehicle-mounted computers, force tracking software

Connected Warrior - October 11, 2017 -- The Army is acquiring and modernizing vehicle-mounted consolidated ruggedized computer systems and force-tracking software designed to help soldiers on the move access combat-relevant information from vehicles and in dismounted operations.

AUSA 2017: Leonardo leads the fight against UAS threat

Shepard Media - October 11, 2017 -- Under an urgent requirement for the US Army Leonardo DRS has been awarded a $42 million contract for a counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS).

New Black Boxes Will Be Easier to Track in Plane Crashes at Sea

The New York Times - September 29, 2017 - PARIS --  Since the dawn of the jet age, flying has gotten significantly safer. In fact, you are thousands of times more likely to die while driving to the airport than you are flying in a plane.

AUSA 2017: US Army contracts for Abrams Trophy fielding

Shepard Media - September 29, 2017 -- The US Army is preparing for initial fielding of the Trophy active protection system (APS) on the M1A2 Abrams tank, with contracts now being placed with industry.

I’m Pretty Sure The Army’s New Night-Vision Technology Is Black Magic

Task & Purpose - July 31, 2017 -- Inside a dark shooting range at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, Army Master Sgt. Lashon Wilson stands behind a barrier, kitted out with body armor and an M4. In front of the M4’s optics is an advanced thermal sight, and affixed to his kevlar is a new set of night vision goggles. As Wilson looks behind him, he keeps his rifle pointed downrange. On an overhead flat screen, there’s a video feed showing Wilson’s field of view, and hovering in the center is a circular reticle showing a silhouette target — on the opposite side of the room.

Leonardo Joins Army Effort To Defeat Small Enemy Drones

Defense Daily - July 17, 2017  -- The Army awarded Leonardo DRS a $16 million contract to fill an urgent operational need for systems that can detect and destroy enemy unmanned aircraft systems (UAS).

Could DRS' C-UAS be the U.S. Army's Solution to Defeating Enemy Drones?

The National Interest - July 19, 2017 -- The United States Army has awarded Leonardo DRS a contract award worth up to $16 million to develop a counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) capability to protect soldiers from enemy drones.

PARIS: A350 first in line for deployable flight recorder

Flight Global - June 21, 2017 - PARIS --  Airbus is entering a partnership to develop a deployable flight recorder which will be initially introduced on the A350 from 2019. The automatic deployable flight recorder will be a combined voice and data device, and is being developed in co-operation with L3 Technologies and Leonardo's DRS Technologies Canada arm. Airbus executive vice-president for engineering Charles Champion detailed the programme during a briefing at the Paris air show. While real-time transmission of data "will come eventually", he says Airbus wants to pursue a "hard solution" through the development of a releasable recorder.

Leonardo DRS Supports Students from Historically Black Colleges in North Carolina Scholarship Program

North Carolina News Network - May 30, 2017 -- CHAPEL HILL – Fifty-two students from 10 of North Carolina’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have been selected to participate in the North Carolina Governor’s HBCU Internship Program this summer.

Navy receiving data terminal sets from Leonardo DRS

UPI - May 15, 2017 (UPI) -- High-performance Link-11/Link-22 data terminal sets and related communications equipment are to be delivered to the U.S. Navy by Leonardo DRS. The U.S. military and allied forces use Link-11 and Link-22 data systems to exchange information -- including radar tracking information -- among airborne, land-based and ship-board tactical data systems.

Are we addressing tomorrow’s threats with yesterday’s technology?

Defense News - May 1, 2017 -- America has always counted on its vast industrial base and technological supremacy to create a fighting edge on the battlefield. But that base is now shifting along with the technology it produces and our national security needs unfortunately could be left behind. 

BAE & Leonardo Pursue Advanced Threat Detection for US Army Aircraft

American Security Today - April 20, 2017 -- To offer military aircrews with enhanced protection from new and emerging threats, BAE Systems and Leonardo DRS have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to offer advanced threat detection capabilities for U.S. Army fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft.

Leonardo DRS to Provide Advanced Hybrid Electric Drive Technology for First USCG OPC

Navy Industry News - April 14, 2017 -- Leonardo DRS, Inc. announced today that it has been awarded a contract by Eastern Shipbuilding to provide hybrid electric drive systems for the U.S. Coast Guard’s new fleet of Offshore Patrol Cutters. The contract, for the first nine systems, is worth $10.7 million. Eastern Shipbuilding is the prime contractor and builder of these next-generation Offshore Patrol Cutters.

Boeing, Leonardo DRS Subsidiary Land Navy Contracts for Destroyer Ethernet Installation Support

Gov Con Wire - April 6, 2017 -- Boeing (NYSE: BA) and a Leonardo DRS subsidiary have received contracts worth up to $192.8 million combined to install Gigabit Ethernet Data Multiplex System hardware aboard the U.S. Navy’s DDG 51-class destroyers.

San Diego firm that makes lasers to protect US military helicopters to be acquired for $150M

The San Diego Union Tribune - March 14, 2017 — San Diego’s Daylight Solutions, which makes infrared lasers used to protect military helicopters from heat seeking missiles, has agreed to be acquired by Italian aerospace and defense contractor Leonardo for $150 million. Founded in 2005, Daylight employs about 110 workers and has raised more than $35 million in capital over the years. In addition to protecting military aircraft, its infrared laser technology also is used in scientific research and medical/environmental applications, including imaging for cancer diagnostics and chemical vapor detection.

Video: Interview with CEO Bill Lynn on Future Growth

Defense News - March 12, 2017 -- Leonardo DRS CEO William Lynn III sits down with Defense News Air Warfare Reporter Valerie Insinna to discuss his company’s plans for future growth.

Leonardo To Acquire U.S. Laser Technology Company Daylight Solutions

Defense Daily Network - March 8, 2017 — Italy’s LEONARDO on Tuesday said it has agreed to acquire California-based DAYLIGHT SOLUTIONS, INC. in a $150 million cash deal that will further expand its U.S. footprint and provide it with laser technology to integrate into existing solutions.

Leonardo DRS' first acquisition marks next phase of company's growth

Defense News - March 7, 2017 -- Washington — Leonardo DRS, the U.S. subsidiary of the Italian defense contractor Leonardo, announced its first acquisition Tuesday morning. But the $150 million purchase of laser technology firm Daylight Solutions most likely won’t be the last, the Leonardo DRS head said.

DRS Technologies signs tactical data link contract with U.S. Navy

February 21, 2017 - Arlington, Va. -- DRS Technologies, a Leonardo Company, has been awarded an indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity (ID/IQ) contract worth up to $22 million by the U.S. Navy for an updated communications system that will enable ship commanders to securely share real-time tactical data information.

Army Tanks, Strykers & Bradleys to Get Vehicle-Mounted Active Protection Systems to Detect, Track and Destroy Enemy Fire

The National Interest - February 20, 2017 -- The Army is fast-tracking an emerging technology for Abrams tanks designed to give combat vehicles an opportunity identify, track and destroy approaching enemy rocket-propelled grenades in a matter of milliseconds, service officials said.

The U.S. Navy is Moving at Warp Speed to Develop Super Lasers

The National Interest - January 24, 2017 - Laser weapons will be developed through a three-phased approach in order to fire the weapon from destroyers at cruise missiles, drones, aircraft and small boats. The U.S. Navy is moving at warp speed to develop lasers with more lethality, precision and power sources as a way to destroy attacking missiles, drones aircraft and other threats. “We’re doing a lot more with lasers," Rear Adm. Ronald Boxall, director, Surface Warfare Division, said earlier this month at the annual Surface Naval Association national symposium. The Navy plans to fire a 150-kw weapon off a test ship within a year, he said. “Then a year later, we’ll have that on a carrier or a destroyer or both.” That’s quite a jump from the kw AN/SEQ-3(XN-1) Laser Weapon System (LaWS), which deployed in 2014 on the amphibious transport dock USS Ponce.

DRS Gears Up for Hybrid Electric Drive Potential

IHS Jane's - January 19, 2017 - Concerns over security and long-term energy costs will still drive the equipment market despite recent dips in fuel prices that have somewhat dampened interest in developing hybrid and electric drive propulsion plants for naval ships, predicted Greg Reed, a senior business development director for DRS Technologies.

Industry seeks power boost for navy lasers

IHS Jane's - January 17, 2017 - With US Navy (USN) officials continuing to seek more powerful lasers, industry is looking for ways to provide the power needed to operate such weapons.