China is rapidly expanding its nuclear arsenal, with the Pentagon estimating it will possess 1,000 nuclear warheads by 2030, up from its current stockpile of over 600. The increase coincides with Beijing’s broader military modernization, including advancements in intercontinental ballistic missiles and the development of a robust navy and air force. Despite its growing military might, challenges such as corruption and logistical constraints hinder China’s ability to project power far from its mainland. U.S. policymakers are closely monitoring these developments, with President-elect Donald Trump planning to maintain a hard stance on China through economic and military strategies. Meanwhile, the U.S. […]
Year: 2024
The growing effectiveness of air-defence systems could blunt the West’s most powerful weapons
Recent advancements in air defense and drone technology are increasingly challenging Western air superiority, raising concerns among military strategists. Russia’s failure to achieve air superiority in Ukraine has underscored the evolving difficulties of maintaining control of the skies. Sir Richard Knighton, head of the Royal Air Force, acknowledged these challenges, stating that past air supremacy is no longer guaranteed. General David Allvin of the U.S. Air Force emphasized the shift toward achieving brief “windows of dominance” rather than prolonged air superiority. Additionally, the rising costs and delays of advanced air fleets, such as the USAF’s $209 billion-over-budget F-35 program, highlight […]
Czechoslovak Group Expands With $2.2 Billion US Acquisition
Czechoslovak Group AS (CSG) has acquired multiple U.S. ammunition plants from Vista Outdoor Inc. for $2.2 billion, making it the largest producer of small-caliber ammunition outside China and Russia. The acquisition aligns with CSG’s focus on supplying NATO armies to replenish depleted stockpiles, as highlighted by company board member David Stepan. Stepan stated that the deal is part of a broader strategy, with CSG continuing to explore opportunities in other defense segments despite achieving sufficient small-caliber production capacity. The acquisition has also expanded CSG’s global workforce to 14,000 employees. This move reinforces CSG’s position as a key player in the […]
Rheinmetall contracted by Ukraine to deliver Marder IFVs and propellant charge modules
Rheinmetall has secured contracts to deliver additional Marder 1A3 infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) and tens of thousands of 155mm propellant charge modules to Ukraine. The Marder contract, valued in the mid-range double-digit million euros and funded by the German Government, aims for delivery by mid-2025, following previous shipments in 2023. A separate €9 million contract for 155mm charge modules will commence deliveries in January 2025. At the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Berlin, Rheinmetall and Ukraine signed a memorandum of understanding to strengthen strategic cooperation, including plans for artillery ammunition production and Lynx IFV manufacturing. These efforts also focus on revitalizing […]
Ukraine unveils laser weapon ‘based on UK prototypes’
Ukraine has introduced a new laser weapon, Tryzub, inspired by UK prototypes and capable of shooting down Russian aircraft over 2 kilometers away. Col. Vadym Sukharevskyi, commander of Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces, announced the weapon at a defense industry conference in Kyiv, marking its first official acknowledgment. The Tryzub represents a significant step in Ukraine’s efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities, with ongoing improvements planned. Col. Sukharevskyi also highlighted advancements in drone technology, including “queen drones” designed to lead FPV attack drones deep into enemy territory. These developments underscore Ukraine’s commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies in its defense strategy. Original […]
Europe’s ‘Green’ Agenda Could Be a Godsend to Russia
NATO and defense industry leaders, including BAE Systems, have expressed concerns that environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria are restricting investments in Europe’s defense sector. Admiral Rob Bauer criticized financial institutions for denying support to defense companies due to moral and ESG concerns, warning this undermines Europe’s military readiness amid rising security threats. BAE Systems and Saab highlighted that ESG restrictions hinder investment in critical skills, technologies, and innovation, while smaller supply chain businesses face even greater financial challenges. Bauer proposed reevaluating credit rating criteria, suggesting defense investments be treated with the same urgency as climate change mitigation. As Europe […]
V Corps boosts combat readiness with HIMARS in Europe
The US Army’s V Corps has bolstered its combat readiness in Europe by deploying the 3rd Battalion, 321st Field Artillery Regiment (3-321 FAR) to Grafenwoehr, Germany, equipped with High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS). This deployment enhances V Corps’ mobility and strengthens NATO collaboration through joint training exercises, such as Thunderbolt Convergence with the Belgian military. The integration of HIMARS into V Corps’ operations reflects the system’s growing role in modern artillery. In June 2024, the US Department of Defense announced a $2 billion contract modification with Lockheed Martin to produce more HIMARS. These developments underscore the US commitment to […]
Slovakia buys Black Hawk helicopters, leaving Vipers up for grabs
Slovakia has announced the purchase of 12 second-hand, modernized UH-60 Black Hawk helicopters for its military, as confirmed by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Robert Kaliňák. Offered by Ace Aeronautics from the Helicopter Alliance group, the helicopters cost approximately €150 million ($158 million) without weapons. Manufactured by Sikorsky, a Lockheed Martin subsidiary, the Black Hawks were chosen over Bell’s Viper helicopters, which Slovakia opted not to procure. Ukraine, which has lobbied for Vipers for nearly two years, may now intensify efforts to secure the aircraft following Slovakia’s decision. This purchase reflects Slovakia’s focus on upgrading its military capabilities with […]
Saab explores new markets for its live-training simulation
Saab’s Training and Simulation unit is expanding its Gamer live-training system to include maritime applications and broaden its user base. At the 2024 I/ITSEC conference in Orlando, Hans Lindgren, Saab’s head of business development, showcased the system’s indirect fire simulation, now ready for deployment to the Royal Netherlands Army. Saab is also enhancing the system to simulate loitering munitions and beyond-line-of-sight weapons, attracting interest from multiple customers. The Gamer system has integrated live drone capabilities, currently used by the British Army for experimentation, with Saab hinting at an upcoming new customer. These advancements highlight Saab’s commitment to providing cutting-edge, realistic […]
Palantir’s Mike Gallagher Says Tech Startups Are Key to DoD Overhaul
Palantir’s head of defense, Mike Gallagher, called for urgent reform in the U.S. Defense Department’s procurement process to keep pace in the modern technological arms race. Highlighting the growing importance of AI and drones, Gallagher criticized the current system as inadequate, stating, “The status quo isn’t cutting it.” Palantir has deepened its military ties, securing contracts to develop an intelligence hub and expand AI initiatives, with its stock value surpassing traditional defense giants like Lockheed Martin. Gallagher is also spearheading the FedStart program, designed to help startups navigate government contracting and build a stronger defense tech ecosystem. The article notes […]
Romania receives three more F-16 deliveries and recommits to European training
Romania has received three more F-16 jets, bringing its fleet to fifteen, with plans to complete an order of 32 second-hand jets from Norway by 2025. These aircraft will join the 48th Fighter Squadron, enhancing Romania’s national and NATO air defense capabilities. The country reaffirmed its commitment to the European F-16 Training Centre (EFTC) through a Letter of Intent, collaborating with the Netherlands and supported by Lockheed Martin. Romanian Defense Minister Angel Tîlvăr highlighted the training program’s importance for Romanian and Ukrainian pilots, emphasizing its role in strengthening national and allied airspace security. This acquisition and training initiative underscore Romania’s […]
The US Air Force needs to learn the way of the Finns for the war of 2027
Finland, a NATO member since 2023, has ordered 64 F-35 stealth fighters to replace its aging F/A-18C/D Hornets. Major General Juha-Pekka Keränen emphasized that Finland’s proximity to Russia requires a unique defense strategy, including the use of civilian airfields and highways as airstrips to evade Russian missile strikes. The F-35’s advanced stealth capabilities are seen as vital for air safety, though its high maintenance demands pose challenges for Finland’s austere operational bases. In September, U.S. F-35s successfully landed on Finnish highways, demonstrating the fighter’s adaptability to unconventional locations. This acquisition highlights Finland’s commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities and ensuring […]
Hypersonic Missiles at Center of New US Arms Race Against Russia and China
The United States conducted a major hypersonic missile test last week, advancing toward the first operational deployment of the weapon. The test featured the common hypersonic All Up Round (AUR) missile, a key component of the Army’s Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon system, also known as Dark Eagle, launched from Cape Canaveral. A U.S. defense official highlighted the milestone as a critical step in delivering hypersonic capabilities to warfighters and preparing for future sea-based deployments for the Navy. According to a Congressional Research Service document, the U.S. plans to deploy the Dark Eagle in Germany by 2026 as part of its Multi-Domain […]
Ukraine says it uncovered 12 agents spying for Russia on F-16s, air defences
Ukraine’s SBU security service revealed the capture of 12 agents accused of spying for Russia, aiming to locate F-16 fighter jets and air defense systems within Ukraine. The alleged organizer and four key accomplices were detained on suspicion of treason and leaking sensitive military information. The network, which included former military deserters, was tasked with identifying airfields, air defense sites, and electronic warfare company locations. The SBU stated that investigations are ongoing to apprehend other members of the network, emphasizing the seriousness of the espionage. Those found guilty face potential life sentences under Ukrainian law. Original news
Lithuania Signs Deal For Leopard 2A8 Tanks
Lithuania’s newly appointed defense minister, Dovilė Šakalienė, signed an agreement on December 16 to procure 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks during an official visit to Germany. The deal, Lithuania’s largest military contract, is a key step in the country’s military modernization and aims to enhance NATO interoperability and regional security. During the visit, Šakalienė met with German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius to discuss defense cooperation, including the deployment of a 4,800-strong Bundeswehr heavy maneuver brigade to Lithuania in 2024. The tank acquisition was authorized by Lithuania’s State Defence Council prior to the October 27 election that brought Šakalienė to office. Additionally, […]