The resurgence of defense technology is transforming Silicon Valley’s approach to military investments, with startups like Castelion, founded by SpaceX alumni, gaining momentum. Increased geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine and U.S.-China rivalries, have driven venture capital funding for defense startups up by over a third in two years, reaching nearly $40 billion. Palantir CEO Alex Karp stresses the importance of government collaboration with Silicon Valley, arguing that policymakers must adapt to the tech industry’s rapid innovation. Palantir’s market value has now surpassed $250 billion, exceeding that of traditional defense giants Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and General Dynamics combined. […]
Year: 2025
U.S. Lawmakers Push to Classify Space Systems as Critical Infrastructure
A bipartisan bill introduced in the House this week seeks to designate U.S. space systems as critical infrastructure, granting them protection under the Department of Homeland Security. The Space Infrastructure Act, co-sponsored by Rep. Salud Carbajal (D-CA) and led by Rep. Ken Calvert (R-CA), argues that space assets are vital to national security and the economy. If passed, the legislation would make space the 17th critical infrastructure sector, alongside energy and transportation. Supporters believe bipartisan backing increases its chances of success, despite past legislative hurdles. The bill reflects growing concerns over the vulnerability of space systems to cyber and physical […]
Norway Weighs Lifting Sovereign Wealth Fund Ban on Defense Investments
Norway’s central bank chief, Ida Wolden Bache, suggested on February 13 that the country’s $1.8 trillion sovereign wealth fund reconsider its ban on investing in arms manufacturers, including Lockheed Martin. She argued that the fund’s ethical guidelines, established in 2004, may need to adapt to a shifting geopolitical landscape marked by military rearmament. The proposal has sparked debate, with Norway’s opposition Conservative Party supporting a review of restrictions on defense investments. Any changes would require careful evaluation to balance security interests with maintaining public trust in the fund. The discussion reflects broader shifts in Europe’s approach to military funding amid […]
Saab to Unveil New Coast Control Radar at IDEX 2025
Saab will introduce its new Coast Control Radar (CCR) at the International Defence Exhibition (IDEX) in 2025, designed for integration into infrastructure such as towers and bridges. The next-generation radar features a modular design for easier installation and enhanced tracking of small vessels in complex coastal environments. Heléne Bittmann, Saab’s UAE managing director, highlighted its importance for maritime security, calling it a “highly effective means of monitoring key economic lifelines.” The CCR is expected to enhance coastal surveillance and improve situational awareness for naval and port authorities. Saab’s new system reflects the growing demand for advanced maritime security solutions worldwide. […]
U.S. Budget Plan Seeks $100 Billion Defense Boost
The House Budget Committee has introduced a resolution to increase defense spending by $100 billion, countering a Senate proposal seeking a $150 billion hike. House Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the measure aligns with President Trump’s fiscal priorities, though Democrats oppose it due to cuts in non-defense spending. The resolution, set for a committee vote tomorrow, proposes $2 trillion in spending cuts, $4.5 trillion in tax reductions, and a $4 trillion debt ceiling increase. Senator Lindsey Graham is pushing for the Senate’s resolution, emphasizing the need to fund U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The debate highlights a deepening divide over […]
Rheinmetall Wins Contract to Supply C-390 Flight Simulators to Dutch Air Force
Rheinmetall has secured a contract worth a “double-digit million Euro” to provide flight simulators and cargo handling trainers for the Royal Netherlands Air Force’s (RNLAF) Embraer C-390 transport aircraft. Production of the Full Flight and Mission Simulators (FFMS) and Cargo Handling Station Trainers (CHST) will begin immediately, with delivery expected by the end of 2026. The FFMS will meet Level D standards, allowing pilots to train under both normal and emergency conditions. Meanwhile, the CHST will enhance cargo handling training for flight crews and loadmasters with advanced visual display technology. The deal strengthens the Netherlands’ military training capabilities as it […]
Switzerland Proposes Easing Arms Export Rules, Maintains Ban on Ukraine Shipments
The Swiss government has proposed loosening arms export restrictions to strengthen its domestic defense industry and security policy. The plan would allow exceptions in “extraordinary circumstances” but maintains the ban on exporting Swiss weapons to Ukraine due to neutrality laws. Switzerland’s arms sector, which includes multinational firms like Lockheed Martin, has faced setbacks due to restrictions on re-exporting Swiss-made arms. Critics, including the Swissmem industry association and the anti-militarist group GSoA, warn that the changes could undermine Switzerland’s neutrality and humanitarian principles. The proposal reflects ongoing debates over balancing national security with Switzerland’s long-standing non-alignment policies. Original news
The rudimentary drone-planes threatening Russian territory
Ukrainian forces are increasingly using modified light aircraft, such as the E-300 SkyRanger, to carry out strikes deep into Russian territory. These drones, capable of carrying significant payloads, were recently deployed in a major attack on Russia’s Novozybkov oil pumping station, highlighting Ukraine’s growing reliance on drone warfare. With limited long-range missile capabilities, Ukraine is focusing on disrupting Russian infrastructure, though analysts question the overall effectiveness of these strikes against Russia’s economic and military resilience. On January 14, Ukraine launched its largest attack yet, using six British Storm Shadow missiles, U.S.-made ATACMS, and 146 drones to strike targets nearly 700 […]
Northrop Grumman Secures $1.4 Billion in IBCS Contracts, Strengthening U.S.-Poland Defense Ties
Northrop Grumman has secured $1.4 billion in new contracts for the U.S. Army’s Integrated Battle Command System (IBCS). A $481 million contract covers software development and integration with Poland’s air defense network. An additional $899.6 million deal focuses on integrating Polish sensors and the UK’s CAMM system. The Army plans to invest approximately $5 billion in IBCS over the next five years. The contracts strengthen IBCS as a key multinational air defense system. Original news
Elon Musk’s Companies Secure Major U.S. Defense Contracts
Elon Musk’s ventures—SpaceX, Starlink, and Starshield—have secured multiple contracts with the U.S. Department of Defense. SpaceX holds contracts worth approximately $22 billion, including a $733 million deal for Pentagon satellite launches. Starlink provides satellite internet for military operations, with a $23 million contract supporting Ukraine. Starshield, a national security satellite unit, is believed to have contracts valued in the billions. Due to classified details, the total value of Musk’s defense contracts remains undisclosed. Original news
Denmark Awards AeroVironment $181 Million Contract for JUMP 20 Drones
AeroVironment has secured a $181 million contract with Denmark’s Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organisation (DALO) to supply its JUMP 20 medium uncrewed aircraft system (UAS). The contract, awarded through AeroVironment’s subsidiary Arcturus UAV, will run for ten years. The JUMP 20 features vertical take-off and landing capabilities, over 13 hours of endurance, and a 185 km range. The drone is designed for autonomous operations, enhancing Denmark’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. The deal marks a significant investment in modernizing Denmark’s military with advanced UAS technology. Original news
U.S. Defense Secretary Backs Musk’s Pentagon Spending Reform Initiative
Defense Secretary Hegseth announced support for Elon Musk’s “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) initiative to reduce wasteful Pentagon spending. Speaking in Germany, he emphasized redirecting “billions” in savings toward military readiness. The initiative targets spending on climate programs and inefficient weapons acquisitions. Hegseth assured that cost-cutting measures would not weaken military effectiveness. The move aligns with the administration’s push for greater efficiency while maintaining warfighting capabilities. Original news
U.S. Military Pushes AI Upgrades for Space Surveillance Amid Rising Threats
U.S. military officials are working to modernize space object tracking as threats from rival powers and satellite congestion increase. The Space Surveillance Network (SSN) struggles with manual data management, particularly in geosynchronous orbit (GEO). Experts advocate for AI and machine learning to automate tracking and improve response times. The Space Force is testing new systems like the Advanced Tracking and Launch Analysis System (ATLAS) to enhance monitoring. Officials are also exploring commercial partnerships and next-generation surveillance architectures to address the growing challenges in space security. Original news
Germany Chooses Israeli PULS Rocket System Over Lockheed Martin
Germany’s selection of the Israeli-designed PULS rocket artillery system over Lockheed Martin’s options signals a shift in European defense procurement. Berlin signed a $57 million contract with Elbit, choosing a system that can fire rockets from multiple manufacturers, unlike Lockheed’s proprietary GMLRS launchers. U.S. restrictions currently prevent Lockheed missiles from being used with PULS, though Germany will maintain its MARS launchers for existing stock. The decision challenges Lockheed’s market dominance and reflects Germany’s push for greater defense autonomy. Berlin is also exploring European missile production to reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers. Original news
European Defense Start-Ups See 24% Surge in Investment Amid Rising Security Concerns
Investment in European defense and security start-ups jumped 24% in 2024 to $5.2 billion, outpacing AI venture capital growth on the continent over the past two years. A report by the NATO Innovation Fund and Dealroom highlighted growing investor confidence in companies like defense AI firm Helsing and drone maker Tekever, despite a broader downturn in European VC funding. Germany overtook the UK as the leading destination for defense tech investment, with Munich attracting nearly $1 billion in funding last year. The NATO fund, launched in 2022 with €1 billion, aims to bridge Europe’s funding gap in defense innovation, as […]