MBDA, the European missile manufacturer co-owned by Airbus, BAE Systems, and Leonardo, is investing $2.7 billion to ramp up production between 2023 and 2028. The company plans to double its Aster air-defense missile output by 2026 to meet Europe’s growing defense needs following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Despite this expansion, MBDA faces stiff competition from US manufacturers like Lockheed Martin, which produces significantly higher missile volumes annually. Lockheed Martin currently manufactures about 720 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles per year, with plans to scale up to 1,100. To meet demand, MBDA is addressing supply chain bottlenecks and expanding its workforce across […]
Month: March 2025
Finland Begins Construction of F-35 Engine Facilities
Finland has started building new facilities to assemble and maintain Pratt & Whitney F135 engines for its future fleet of F-35 Joint Strike Fighters. The project, managed by the Finnish defense infrastructure agency Defense Properties, aims to support Finland’s integration into NATO’s airpower network. These facilities will enhance Finland’s ability to maintain and sustain its fleet domestically, reducing reliance on foreign maintenance hubs. The investment reflects Finland’s commitment to modernizing its defense capabilities amid growing regional security concerns. Once operational, the site will play a crucial role in supporting Finland’s long-term F-35 program. Original news
U.S. Invests $188 Million in Norway’s Rygge Airbase for F-35 Expansion
The U.S. is investing $188 million to upgrade Norway’s Rygge airbase, enhancing storage and operational capacity for F-35 fighter jets under the 2021 Supplementary Defense Cooperation Agreement. Norwegian State Secretary Andreas Flåm emphasized the long-standing defense partnership, stating, “Norway and the U.S. have enjoyed close defense cooperation for more than 75 years.” The upgrades include constructing four fighter hangars and expanding ammunition storage to support NATO operations. Despite concerns about potential U.S. restrictions on F-35 deployment, Flåm reassured that U.S.-Norwegian defense ties remain strong. The investment underscores Norway’s strategic role in NATO’s northern defense posture. Original news
Bombardier CEO Warns of U.S. Tariff Risks Amid Canada’s F-35 Contract Review
Bombardier CEO Eric Martel raised concerns about potential U.S. tariffs if Canada cancels its C$19 billion contract for 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets. The Canadian government, under new Prime Minister Mark Carney, is reviewing the deal due to ongoing trade tensions with the U.S.. Martel warned that Bombardier could shift priorities to non-U.S. clients if tariffs are imposed, stating, “Effectively, we could be targeted, this is my concern.” Despite the review, Canada’s Defense Ministry has already committed funds for the first 16 F-35 aircraft. The decision could have significant implications for Canada’s defense industry and its trade relations with […]
U.S. B-52s Train in Sweden for Precision Strikes Amid NATO Expansion
Two U.S. B-52H Stratofortresses conducted live guided bomb drops in Sweden as part of the Viking Nebula mission, marking Sweden’s first NATO membership anniversary. The exercise included coordination with Swedish JAS 39 Gripens and U.S.-Swedish joint terminal attack controllers, demonstrating air-ground precision strike capabilities. The B-52s, deployed from Minot Air Force Base and stationed at RAF Fairford, England, are training with NATO allies to deter Russian aggression. As part of a separate mission, a B-52 escorted by two F-35s performed a low pass over Oslo, Norway, reinforcing NATO’s military presence in the region. The drills highlight Sweden’s increasing integration into […]
Portugal Considers European Jets Over F-35s Amid U.S. Policy Uncertainty
Portugal may replace its aging F-16 fighter jets with European alternatives instead of the F-35 due to concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump’s shifting NATO policies. Defense Minister Nuno Melo highlighted fears that the U.S. could impose restrictions on aircraft use, maintenance, and components, impacting Portugal’s operational readiness. Despite these concerns, the Defense Ministry clarified that the F-35 has not been ruled out, but European-made jets are also under consideration. Portugal’s decision reflects broader European concerns about reducing reliance on U.S. defense systems amid growing uncertainty over future American security commitments. Original news
Canada Reassesses F-35 Purchase Amid Trade Tensions with U.S.
Canada is reviewing its purchase of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets due to trade tensions initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump. Prime Minister Mark Carney has tasked Defense Minister Bill Blair with evaluating whether the contract remains the best investment for Canada. Defense ministry officials clarified that the contract has not been canceled but acknowledged the need for further assessment given the shifting geopolitical environment. Lockheed Martin reaffirmed its commitment to the Royal Canadian Air Force, stating that procurement decisions are matters for the Canadian and U.S. governments. The review raises uncertainty over Canada’s long-term defense strategy as it […]
Rheinmetall Overtakes Volkswagen in Market Value Amid Defense Stock Surge
Rheinmetall has surpassed Volkswagen in market value, reaching €56.6 billion ($61.5 billion) as investor demand for defense stocks rises. European defense stocks have surged amid concerns over U.S. support for Ukraine and Europe’s increasing military spending commitments. Rheinmetall’s stock has more than doubled in 2024 and grown over twelve-fold since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Jefferies analysts rated Rheinmetall as a “buy” and its top pick, while Renk was also rated “buy” and Hensoldt “underperform”. Rheinmetall forecasts a 25% to 30% sales increase in 2025, following €10 billion in revenue for 2024. Original news
Sweden to supply 18 additional Archer self-propelled howitzers to Ukraine
Sweden has approved the procurement of 18 Archer artillery systems for Ukraine, as part of its ongoing military aid efforts. The SEK 3 billion package, managed by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), also includes five Arthur counter-battery radar systems to enhance Ukraine’s battlefield effectiveness. Sweden is collaborating with Denmark to fund additional 155mm artillery ammunition or Bohdana artillery systems, strengthening Ukraine’s defense industry. Additionally, Sweden plans to join the Ukraine Defense Contact Group’s artillery coalition to improve artillery interoperability with NATO. The Arthur radar systems will be delivered in 2025, while Archer howitzers will arrive in 2026. Original news
ESA Launches HydRON Optical Data Relay Network to Enhance Satellite Connectivity
The European Space Agency (ESA) has initiated the HydRON program, a multi-orbit optical data relay network designed to improve satellite connectivity between low Earth orbit (LEO), geostationary orbit (GEO), and terrestrial networks. Utilizing lasers capable of transmitting up to 100 gigabits per second, the project is expected to revolutionize data transmission for sectors like Earth observation and defense. Kepler Communications secured a €36 million contract to develop the first element of the network, while ESA has also contracted Thales Alenia Space to build the second component. This collaboration marks a major step forward in advancing optical satellite communications technology. Original […]
Poland Considers French Nuclear Security Initiative Amid NATO Concerns
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed discussions with France on a European nuclear umbrella, signaling Poland’s interest in enhancing its strategic security. Tusk emphasized that modern weapons, including nuclear capabilities, are crucial for Poland’s defense, raising speculation about shifting security alliances. Analysts believe this move sends a message to the U.S., as concerns over NATO’s reliability grow under the Trump administration’s policies toward Russia. Poland is already acquiring 32 F-35 fighter jets, certified to carry U.S. B61-12 tactical nuclear weapons, but these jets cannot deploy French nuclear arms. If Poland pursues a nuclear partnership with France, it may need alternative […]
EU to Launch Pan-European Defense Projects to Address Security Gaps
The European Commission plans to invite EU nations to identify their most critical defense needs as part of large-scale pan-European flagship projects, according to a draft white paper. The document, set for release next week, responds to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing the need for Europe to strengthen its defense capabilities independently of U.S. support. It highlights capability gaps in air defense and cyber warfare, urging collaborative efforts to close these vulnerabilities. The draft also suggests deepening the European defense market to improve coordination and efficiency. This initiative marks a strategic shift toward self-reliance in European defense policy. Original news
European Asset Managers Reassess Defense Investments Amid Rising Security Concerns
European asset managers are reconsidering investment policies in the defense sector due to client pressure and escalating geopolitical tensions. Legal & General, the UK’s largest investor, stated that defense’s importance has “risen dramatically,” prompting a review of its exposure to defense stocks. Other major firms, including UBS and Allianz Global Investors, are also reassessing their positions, signaling a broader shift toward military investments. Some funds have already begun increasing their allocations to defense, reflecting growing acceptance of the sector amid rising security threats in Europe. This trend highlights a changing investment landscape, as defense spending becomes a strategic priority for […]
European Satellite Firms Call for Collaboration to Compete with SpaceX
At the Satellite 2025 conference in Washington, European satellite manufacturers urged greater cooperation to compete with vertically integrated players like SpaceX. Benoit Deper, CEO of Aerospacelab, emphasized the need for joint ventures and mergers to share risk, warning against repeating past failures in Europe’s launch ecosystem. Thales Alenia Space CEO Hervé Derrey highlighted that co-engineering and deeper collaboration are essential for fostering innovation, as traditional vendor-supplier relationships are no longer sufficient. In response to supply-chain challenges, companies are strengthening supplier partnerships and expanding production capacities. The push for European cooperation reflects the growing urgency to enhance competitiveness in the global […]
Palantir Expands AI-Powered Warp Speed Program to Six New Defense Customers
Palantir has announced six new customers for its Warp Speed AI operating system, designed to optimize manufacturing, fleet management, and maintenance. The new partners include Epirus, Red Cat, Saildrone, Saronic, Ursa Major, and Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), expanding Warp Speed’s defense and aerospace applications. Originally launched in December 2024, Warp Speed enhances production, scheduling, and engineering management and is already used by L3Harris, Shield AI, Anduril Industries, and Panasonic Energy of North America. Palantir’s Head of Industrials Emily Nguyen emphasized that Warp Speed enables faster and more efficient defense production, crucial for keeping pace with evolving threats. Palantir plans to […]