Russian hypersonic missiles and a drone were included in the list of the main military technologies of 2021.
The French portal meta-defense analyzed the military technologies of the world powers in a geopolitical context. Not only the characteristics of the weapons were taken into account, but also how much these developments affected the defense strategy of different countries. The full list consists of ten items. Its first part has been published so far.
1. Nuclear submarines
In 2021, the taboo of the 5 permanent members of the UN Security Council on the sale of nuclear submarines to third countries was violated. Australia terminated the contract for the development of 12 conventional submarines of the Shortfin Barracuda type by a French company and opted for American and British submarines. After that, the doors to the international market opened for many countries wishing to arm themselves with nuclear submarines
2. Hypersonic missiles
Russia's major achievements in the creation of Dagger and Zircon missiles have made hypersonic weapons a priority for the main armies of the world. At least five programs aimed at creating this type of weapons by 2024 are currently being implemented. Russian hypersonic missiles pose serious problems for the Navy. None of the modern ship's anti-aircraft systems can intercept them.
3. The confrontation between the F-35 and Rafale
The French Rafale fighter this year for the first time managed to bypass the orders of its American competitor F-35. 146 aircraft were purchased under five contracts. While the USA managed to sell 100 cars under two contracts.
4. Trophy Active Protection Complex
There is a growing interest in active protection complexes in the world. And here the French portal gives the palm to the Israeli Trophy system. It has proven itself flawlessly during the long-term conflict with Palestine. Not a single Merkava Mk IV tank equipped with it was lost in battle. Many countries are interested in acquiring the Trophy.
5. Combat drones
While Europeans are working on the motorization of European MALE RPAS drones, a large number of countries have engaged in the creation of a new generation of drones. They are designed to accompany combat aircraft and are themselves comparable to them in characteristics. Here the portal highlights the Russian drone "Hunter". It impresses with a take-off weight of 20 tons and a flight range of up to 4000 kilometers (according to other sources - up to 6000 km - "RG").
Oleg Koryakin
