Aerospace & Defense Technology - December 2025

Overview

The December 2025 issue of Aerospace & Defense Technology magazine presents a comprehensive overview of cutting-edge advancements and strategic imperatives shaping modern military and aerospace sectors. The issue highlights emerging technologies and industry trends centered around AI, autonomous systems, edge processing, and open architecture standards, reflecting the accelerating complexity of warfare and the digital transformation of defense.

A key theme throughout the issue is the strategic necessity for rugged, intelligent, and adaptive tactical networks. Mike Southworth of Curtiss-Wright Defense Solutions outlines in his article the concept of the "Cognitive Tactical Network," which integrates cloud computational depth with edge autonomy to ensure continuous command and control (C2) and situational awareness even in contested environments. This network senses, learns, and adapts autonomously, representing a fundamental shift towards information-centric warfare and multi-domain battlespace dominance. The convergence of AI, edge processing, and hybrid architectures is described as central to maintaining superiority as modern battlefields evolve.

The issue further documents significant developments in modular open architecture systems with the spotlight on the Modular Open Suite of Standards (CMOSS) and its subcomponents like the CMOSS Mounted Form Factor (CMFF). General Dynamics Mission Systems announced a .3 million Army contract to deliver CMFF prototype systems, featuring a SOSA-aligned chassis designed for flexible platform integration. The issue reports on PlugFest events held in 2025, where government and industry partners tested interoperability and performance of embedded computing systems within open standards frameworks, including SOSA and CMOSS. This open approach facilitates vendor interoperability, rapid upgrades, and streamlined logistics—crucial for modern defense modernization.

Additional editorial includes the role of large defense contractors and advisory board members comprising Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, Westinghouse, and Aerospace Corp., underscoring collaborative engagement between industry leaders to drive technology innovation and policy alignment.

Podcasts hosted under the aegis of the publisher, mobilityengineeringtech.com, provide insights into specific defense technologies and strategies. Featured episodes include Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll's AUSA 2025 keynote on new procurement approaches for AI, drones, and robotics; MGI Engineering's work designing low-cost, long-range autonomous strike drones leveraging expertise from F1 racing technology; AimLock’s collaboration with Overland AI on autonomous targeting systems enhancing ground vehicles; and Fuse Integration’s CEO discussing AI-powered military communications at the tactical edge in contested environments. These podcasts serve as important digital extensions of the magazine's in-depth analysis, making the latest defense technology dialogues accessible to practitioners and enthusiasts.

The issue also shines a light on advanced manufacturing and materials technology. Articles focus on key machining techniques for jet engine components, highlighting precision and quality challenges in aerospace production. A dedicated section covers lightweight coatings designed to protect aerospace and defense electronics from environmental and operational stresses, demonstrating the critical role of materials science in enhancing system reliability and performance.

From the publishing perspective, the magazine is produced by SAE Media Group, with a declared paid circulation reflecting a strong industry readership. This is further indicative of the publication’s authority and relevance within the aerospace and defense professional community.

In summary, the December 2025 issue of Aerospace & Defense Technology adeptly captures the intersection of AI, autonomous systems, modular open architectures, and materials engineering as the pillars supporting the future of defense technology. It emphasizes the imperative of connectivity, intelligence, and resilience on the modern battlefield, showcasing industry-government collaboration and advanced solutions that will define military dominance in the coming decades. The blend of technical articles, strategic insights, and multimedia content equips readers with a meaningful understanding of how the defense sector is navigating the rapid pace of technological and operational transformation.