OQ Technology plans direct-to-smartphone demo with cellular spectrum

Luxembourg-based OQ Technology said it plans a 2027 demonstration in Germany to connect ordinary smartphones directly to a satellite using a local telecom operator’s licensed cellular spectrum. The test with Telefonica Germany is meant to support two-way messaging and voice without modified handsets, pushing the company into the fast-growing direct-to-device market. The plan would challenge the early lead built by U.S.-backed services, particularly SpaceX’s expanding Starlink direct-to-device effort. The story highlights how spectrum access and mobile partnerships are becoming as important as spacecraft design in the next phase of satellite connectivity.

NASA to select new headquarters building by end of year

NASA said it expects to choose a new headquarters location in the Washington area by the end of 2026 as part of its broader agency reorganization. The move would keep the agency in the capital region while seeking a smaller and more efficient office footprint than its current building. The relocation effort signals that NASA’s management overhaul is now moving from planning into execution.

Hawley blasts 4 Republicans who voted to reject adding voter ID bill to reconciliation package

Sen. Josh Hawley criticized four Republican senators who opposed a motion that would have attached the SAVE America Act voter ID measure to a $70 billion budget reconciliation package. The vote exposed divisions inside the GOP over how aggressively to use must-pass fiscal legislation to advance election policy priorities. It also showed that party unity remains uneven even on issues many Republican leaders frame as core agenda items.

UK startup NewOrbit raises $18.5 million in Series A round

NewOrbit Space, a British company developing satellites for very low Earth orbit, raised $18.5 million in a Series A round. The company said the funding will support its first mission, help it win customers interested in VLEO access and back plans for a manufacturing facility. The raise is a notable vote of confidence in a market focused on lower-altitude satellites for specialized missions.

Airbus unveils U145 autonomous helicopter drone for cargo supply ops

Airbus introduced the autonomous U145, an uncrewed aircraft derived from its H145 helicopter and aimed first at cargo resupply missions. The company said the platform could later expand into armed scouting, surveillance, crewed-uncrewed teaming and mothership roles for air-launched effects. Airbus expects a first flight with a safety pilot aboard later this year, with service entry targeted for 2030.

Israel, Iran attack each other for first time since ceasefire

Israel and Iran exchanged attacks for the first time since their April ceasefire, raising fears that the conflict could re-escalate across the Middle East. According to The Hill’s report, Israel said it struck petrochemical facilities in Mahshahr linked to materials used in ballistic missile development. The renewed violence adds fresh uncertainty for regional security and U.S. policy planning.

Palladyne AI partners with IAI to bring Israeli Harpy, Harop drones to US

Israel Aerospace Industries granted Palladyne AI exclusive rights to build Harpy, Harop and Mini-Harpy attack drones in the United States. Palladyne plans to adapt the systems for U.S. requirements and integrate its autonomous swarming software, with an eye on the Army’s Long Range Precision Munitions competition. The deal links proven Israeli loitering munition designs with a potentially significant U.S. procurement opportunity.