Military Technology News & Defense Updates

A Supersonic Jet Without the Boom? NASA’s X-59 Just Moved One Step Closer

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 25, 2026

NASA is preparing its X-59 experimental jet for a second flight, the next step in proving that supersonic aircraft can fly quietly over land. Test pilot Jim “Clue” Less will gradually push the aircraft faster and higher, starting the “envelope expansion” process. The X-59 is designed to replace the loud sonic boom with a quiet thump. If community surveys later find the sound acceptable, regulators could change rules that have banned commercial supersonic flight over land for decades.

US Navy’s New AI-Powered Hammerhead Mines Target Enemy Subs Automatically

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 24, 2026

The U.S. Navy is increasing orders of Hammerhead anti-submarine mines from General Dynamics to counter modern submarine threats in deep waters. These self-guided systems sit on the ocean floor and fire torpedoes automatically when they detect enemy vessels. The move comes as China expands its submarine fleet and the Navy seeks ways to block critical Pacific sea lanes without risking aircraft or using up limited submarine space.

GE Aerospace and Palantir Expand AI Deal for Military Readiness

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 24, 2026

GE Aerospace and Palantir are expanding their AI partnership to boost U.S. military aircraft readiness. Using Palantir’s AI platform, the companies predict engine failures, streamline supply chains, and automate manual tasks. The effort started with T-38 trainer jets and now extends to production and sustainment, helping keep more planes mission‑ready for America’s warfighters.

Japan’s Defense Ministry Plans ¥100 Billion Drone Shield for Coast

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 24, 2026

Japan’s Defense Ministry is allocating ¥100 billion ($628.7 million) for SHIELD, a new coastal defense system using thousands of drones. The layered network will include surveillance, strike, and protection drones to counter maritime advances. Officials acknowledge challenges in communications, training, and domestic production, but say the shift is essential to avoid falling behind in modern combat.

US’s F-22 Secret Upgrade Emerges: Stealth Tanks and Pods Hint at New Air Combat Edge

MM 24 Newsroom March 24, 2026

The US is advancing its air combat capabilities by upgrading the F-22 Raptor for modern battle conditions. New developments show

US Navy Invests $900M in AI Factories, But Will It Solve Submarine Delays?

MM 24 Newsroom March 24, 2026

The US Navy is making a bold $900 million investment in highly automated factories to fix its submarine production challenges.

PrSM Changed the Game in War; Why the Pentagon Is Suddenly Rushing More

MM 24 Newsroom March 24, 2026

The US is moving to expand its stockpile of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) after the weapon reportedly proved its

US Expands Hypersonic Program with Rocket Lab $190M Launch Agreement

Modern Mechanics 24 News Desk March 23, 2026

Rocket Lab secured a $190 million contract for 20 hypersonic test flights under the MACH-TB 2.0 program. The launches, using the company’s HASTE vehicle, will support the U.S. Department of War in accelerating hypersonic technology development. With a 100% mission success rate on prior flights, Rocket Lab is now the primary commercial provider for high‑cadence hypersonic testing.