The Italian Army is set to boost its armored capabilities through the Armoured Infantry Combat Systems (AICS) and Main Battle Tank (MBT) programs, projected to generate €1 billion ($1.1 billion) in revenue. Leonardo’s updated Industrial Strategy, published on March 11, confirms plans to deliver 1,050 AICS units and 272 MBTs by 2040. The AICS will be based on Rheinmetall’s KF41 infantry fighting vehicle, while the new MBT will derive from the KF51 Panther tank. To support these developments, Leonardo and Rheinmetall established the Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles (LRMV) joint venture, with operations starting in Q1 2025. This initiative reflects Italy’s […]
Month: March 2025
U.S. to Resume GLSDB Shipments to Ukraine After Upgrades
The U.S. is set to resume shipments of Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDBs) to Ukraine after upgrading them to counter Russian jamming. These long-range bombs will arrive as Ukraine’s stockpile of ATACMS missiles has reportedly been depleted. In recent weeks, 19 GLSDBs were test-fired to evaluate the effectiveness of the upgrades. Their deployment could happen within days, as a stockpile is already positioned in Europe. The move aims to enhance Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities amid ongoing battles against Russian forces. Original news
Rheinmetall Considers Volkswagen’s Osnabrueck Factory for Military Production
Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger suggested that Volkswagen’s Osnabrueck plant could be converted for military production, as Volkswagen explores repurposing or selling the site. Papperger expressed interest in acquiring car manufacturing sites, but emphasized that large defense orders, such as for Lynx infantry fighting vehicles, would be needed before making such an investment. Volkswagen announced in December 2024 that it was reviewing alternative uses for the plant, raising hopes that a sale could help preserve jobs. While Rheinmetall and Volkswagen already collaborate on military truck production, Papperger clarified that there is no formal plan for Osnabrueck yet. However, he stated that […]
Isar Aerospace Secures Norwegian Space Agency Contract for 2028 Launch
Isar Aerospace has won a launch contract from the Norwegian Space Agency to send two Arctic Ocean Surveillance (AOS) satellites into orbit in 2028. The Spectrum rocket will carry the AOS-Demo satellite (built by Eidel) and AOS-Precursor satellite (built by Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace) from Andøya Spaceport to a sun-synchronous orbit. Christian Hauglie-Hanssen, director general of the Norwegian Space Agency, highlighted that this marks the first time Norwegian-built satellites will be launched from a Norwegian site under a government contract. The announcement comes as Isar prepares for its first Spectrum launch, awaiting final approval from the Norwegian Civil Aviation Authority. […]
Leonardo Estimates 350 Orders for Global Combat Air Programme by 2035
Leonardo projects 350 aircraft orders for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a joint initiative between Italy, Japan, and the UK, by 2035. The program, which will introduce the Tempest fighter, has secured €40 billion ($43.7 billion) in development funding from its partner nations. Japan currently operates 39 F-35A/Bs, while Italy and the UK field 31 and 35 F-35 variants, respectively. A joint venture between BAE Systems, Leonardo, and Japan Aircraft Industrial Enhancement Company will oversee aircraft production across the UK, Italy, and Japan. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) remains focused on developing an F-2 replacement, based on the […]
Leonardo Targets €30 Billion Revenue by 2029 Amid Defense Spending Boom
Leonardo aims to reach €30 billion ($32.5 billion) in revenue by 2029, driven by rising European defense budgets and industry expansion. The forecast was announced during the company’s FY2024 results and 2025–29 industrial update on March 11. In 2024, Leonardo reported €17.8 billion ($19.8 billion) in revenue, marking a significant increase toward its long-term target. The company plans to focus on strengthening its core business sectors, particularly in defense, security, and advanced aircraft and helicopter platforms. Leonardo’s growth strategy aligns with increasing European investments in military capabilities and defense modernization. Original news
Clavister Wins $6.5M Cybersecurity Contract for CV90 Infantry Fighting Vehicles
Clavister has secured a SEK 68 million ($6.5 million) contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds to integrate CyberArmour cybersecurity solutions into CV90 infantry fighting vehicles for a Nordic country. The three-year agreement, with initial deliveries set for 2027, includes an option to expand the contract to SEK 96 million ($9.2 million). Clavister will provide its CyberArmour RSG-400 and RSW-400 models, offering AI-powered firewall protection for enhanced battlefield cybersecurity. BAE Systems Hägglunds, which designs the CV90, is upgrading the vehicle’s digital architecture, making cybersecurity a key priority. Clavister CEO John Vestberg highlighted the critical role of cyber defense in modern military operations, […]
Dassault Considers Rafale F5 Assembly Line in India Amid Navy Deal Talks
Dassault Aviation is exploring the possibility of establishing a final assembly line in India for its next-generation F5 Rafale aircraft. The discussions come as India negotiates a deal for 26 Rafale-M fighters for the Indian Navy. Dassault CEO Eric Trappier expressed confidence in India’s long-term interest in the Rafale, citing potential future orders from the Indian Army. India previously purchased 36 Rafale jets for €7.9 billion ($8.7 billion) in 2016, strengthening its air combat capabilities. The move signals France’s deepening defense partnership with India and aligns with New Delhi’s push for domestic defense manufacturing. Original news
South Korean Defense Firms Invest in AI for Future Air Combat Systems
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hanwha Asset Management are investing in artificial intelligence firms to enhance autonomous military technologies. KAI has invested $4.1 million in GenGenAI, securing a 9.87% stake to advance AI pilot technology for future air combat systems. Hanwha joined L3Harris in a $240 million funding round for Shield AI, a company specializing in autonomous systems for contested environments. Shield AI President Brandon Tseng highlighted the success of their Hivemind Enterprise technology, which has enabled autonomous flight for F-16s, MQ-20s, and V-BAT drones. These partnerships demonstrate South Korea’s commitment to integrating AI into next-generation military aircraft and autonomous […]
Europe Expands Defense Ties With Turkey Amid Growing Military Cooperation
European nations are increasingly recognizing Turkey’s defense industry, as seen in Italy’s Leonardo partnering with Baykar and Spain considering Turkish Aerospace Industries’ Hurjet jet trainers. Baykar is ramping up production of its Akinci UAS, with a new version featuring Leonardo equipment that could attract European buyers. The joint venture between Leonardo and Baykar highlights deepening industrial cooperation between Turkey and Europe. These developments signal Europe’s growing interest in Turkish military technology, particularly in unmanned systems and advanced aircraft. The shift reflects Turkey’s strengthening role in Europe’s defense industry and export market. Original news
Embraer Offers KC-390 to Poland, Considers Local Assembly Line
Embraer is proposing its KC-390 tactical transport and tanker for the Polish Air Force, while also exploring Poland as a potential European assembly hub. The Brazilian aerospace company sees Poland as a key strategic partner, with plans that could generate $1 billion in value and 600 jobs. Embraer Defense & Security CCO Frederico Lemos emphasized that Poland is “more than a customer, but a long-term operational and industrial partner.” Poland currently operates four Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules transports and has a growing need for additional transport and refueling capabilities. The proposal aligns with Poland’s push to expand its defense industry […]
Satellite Operators Push Back Against Starlink Dominance Narrative
Satellite operators are challenging the perception that Starlink dominates the satellite communications industry, emphasizing their own market growth. SES CEO Adel Al-Saleh pointed out that Starlink’s wins are amplified, while other companies also secure major contracts. Intelsat CEO David Wajsgras highlighted upcoming in-flight connectivity deals and expansion into agriculture and border security markets. Meanwhile, Telesat CEO Dan Goldberg expressed confidence in the Lightspeed constellation, citing strong demand for high-quality broadband services. The industry’s leaders stress that competition remains strong, despite Starlink’s visibility in the market. Original news
U.S. Defense Startups Partner With Ukraine to Improve Battlefield Drones
American drone technology has underperformed in combat, prompting U.S. defense startups to collaborate with Ukrainian manufacturers to develop more effective, war-tested aircraft. This partnership has gained the attention of the U.S. Department of Defense, which is exploring battle-proven drone innovations. Startup CX2 secured a deal in 2023 to integrate its software and sensors into Ukrainian drones, enhancing their capabilities. The U.S. military has approved this collaboration, with potential plans to deploy these advanced drones for American forces. The initiative highlights a shift toward leveraging Ukraine’s battlefield experience to strengthen U.S. drone capabilities. Original news
Dutch Defense Minister Reaffirms Strong Commitment to F-35 Program
Dutch Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans reaffirmed the strong commitment of partner nations to the Lockheed Martin F-35 program during the Paris Defence and Strategy Forum. He emphasized that keeping the F-35 operational and successful is in the best interest of all participating countries, noting no signs of U.S. withdrawal from the program. Brekelmans highlighted European collaboration on the F-35 and stressed the importance of U.S. support in sustaining its effectiveness. The Netherlands has received 40 of its 52 ordered F-35s and plans to acquire six more as part of its modernization efforts. Lockheed Martin confirmed last week that it […]
Latvia Awards Origin Robotics Contract for High-Speed Interceptor Drone
The Latvian Ministry of Defence has awarded Origin Robotics a research and development contract to create a high-speed interceptor drone for countering aerial threats. The contract follows a co-financing model, with the Latvian MoD funding 65% and Origin Robotics covering 35% of development costs. The autonomous drone will be designed to neutralize loitering munitions and hostile UAVs, strengthening Latvia’s air defense capabilities. Origin Robotics CEO Agris Kipurs highlighted the growing need for effective countermeasures in modern warfare. The contract underscores Latvia’s commitment to advancing drone defense technology amid rising security threats. Original news