Norway’s $1.8 trillion sovereign wealth fund is under political pressure to lift its ban on investing in defense companies, including those like Lockheed Martin. Opposition parties argue the restriction is “illogical” given today’s heightened global security threats. Tina Bru of the Conservative Party emphasized the urgent need to support Western defense industries amid rising geopolitical tensions. The fund, the largest in the world, currently excludes firms involved in cluster munitions and controversial weapons. Norges Bank Investment Management, which oversees the fund, declined to comment on any potential revisions to its ethical guidelines. Original news
Month: April 2025
Sweden Moves Forward with Joint C-390 Aircraft Procurement
Sweden is progressing with plans to acquire four Embraer C-390 transport aircraft as part of a joint procurement effort with Austria and the Netherlands. The announcement was made at the LAAD Defence & Security exhibition following a memorandum of understanding signed on March 28. Swedish Defence Minister Pål Jonson emphasized that the collaborative approach enables faster and more cost-efficient delivery. The move builds on Sweden’s earlier decision in November to select the C-390 to replace its aging fleet of Lockheed Martin KC/C-130H aircraft. The deal reflects growing European defense cooperation aimed at streamlining modernization efforts. Original news
LEO Boom Reshapes Satellite Communications Industry
The satellite communications sector is being transformed by the rapid growth of low Earth orbit (LEO) internet services from companies like SpaceX and Amazon’s Kuiper. This shift prompted Australia to cancel its $5 billion Joint Project 9102 with Lockheed Martin, citing the need for more flexible, multi-orbit capabilities. Daniel Gizinski of Comtech emphasized that improving user experience is now a key focus in connectivity solutions. Meanwhile, Astranis is scaling up its MicroGEO satellite fleet, highlighting the appeal of faster deployment and adaptable infrastructure. These developments mark a broader industry pivot toward more dynamic and responsive space communications models. Original news
Eurofighter Confirms Export Customers Receive Full-Capability Typhoons
Eurofighter has confirmed that its export customers receive the same advanced capabilities as partner nations, countering concerns raised by recent U.S. comments. This assurance follows remarks by President Donald Trump suggesting that some foreign aircraft variants, such as the F-47 NGAD, may be “dumbed down” for non-U.S. buyers. A Eurofighter consortium representative clarified that no such limitations apply to the Typhoon. The fighter jet manufacturer is actively pursuing new export deals, with Poland and Türkiye identified as promising short-term prospects. The statement reinforces Eurofighter’s commitment to offering top-tier performance across its global customer base. Original news
Sweden Unveils Record $1.6 Billion Military Aid Package for Ukraine
Sweden has announced its largest-ever military aid package to Ukraine, worth 16 billion kronor ($1.6 billion), aimed at reinforcing Ukraine’s defenses against Russia. The aid will primarily fund new defense orders from Swedish and European manufacturers, while also supporting Ukraine’s domestic arms industry. Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson stressed the urgency of increased support from Western allies. About 70% of the aid is expected to be delivered to Ukraine within the year. The package includes ground support vehicles to maintain operational readiness of F-16 fighter jets stationed at Ukrainian air bases. Original news
Kongsberg to Open Missile Factory in Australia
Kongsberg Defence and Aerospace (KDA) will establish its first Naval Strike Missile (NSM) production facility outside Norway at Newcastle Airport in Australia. Scheduled to begin operations in 2027, the factory will produce both NSMs and Joint Strike Missiles (JSMs). The missiles are intended for use by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and international partners. This move supports Australia’s goal of strengthening sovereign defense manufacturing capabilities. It also reinforces Kongsberg’s global supply chain and strategic ties with Indo-Pacific allies. Original news
Majority of Canadians Support Scrapping F-35 Deal in Favor of European Jets
A Nanos Research poll shows that 62% of Canadians favor canceling the $19-billion contract to buy 88 F-35 jets from Lockheed Martin in favor of European alternatives. Prime Minister Mark Carney has launched a review of the deal, stressing the importance of value and exploring domestic production options. Former defense official Alan Williams raised concerns about Canada’s limited control over the jets due to Lockheed Martin’s retention of source code. The poll surveyed 1,264 Canadians between March 28–30, with a 2.8% margin of error. The results highlight growing public skepticism about U.S. defense procurement amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. Original news
Portugal Still Considers F-35A as Key Option for Future Fighter Fleet
Portugal’s Air Force continues to view the Lockheed Martin F-35A as a strong candidate to replace its aging fleet of F-16s, despite earlier mixed signals from the defense minister. Major General João Nogueira emphasized structural and avionics issues with the current fighters, stressing the importance of moving toward fifth-generation capabilities. While alternative options are being considered, Nogueira underscored the F-35’s significance in maintaining advanced airpower. Portugal plans to spend $4.6 billion on defense in 2024 as it works toward meeting NATO’s 2% GDP benchmark by 2029. The decision on a new fighter is expected in the coming years. Original news