President Emmanuel Macron announced plans to accelerate Rafale warplane orders and invest €1.5 billion in air base upgrades to support advanced nuclear missile technology. France aims to increase defense spending to 3-3.5% of GDP, up from the current 2%, reinforcing its strategic autonomy. The investment will fund the deployment of the Rafale S5 fighter jets, equipped with ASN4G hypersonic nuclear-armed cruise missiles, set to enter service by 2035. Macron’s initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance France’s military readiness and reduce dependence on U.S. security guarantees. As geopolitical tensions rise, France positions itself as a key independent defense […]
Year: 2025
MBDA Achieves Record €13.8 Billion in Orders, Pushes for European Defense Autonomy
MBDA secured a record €13.8 billion in orders for 2024, with CEO Eric Béranger emphasizing Europe’s urgent need for defense self-reliance amid shifting global alliances. The company plans to double its missile production by 2025 compared to 2023 and will invest €2.4 billion in production expansion, hiring 2,600 new employees. Additionally, OCCAR-EA and Eurosam signed an agreement to accelerate Aster missile production, reinforcing Europe’s air defense capabilities. Béranger’s remarks follow growing concerns over Europe’s reliance on non-European defense suppliers, coinciding with Canada’s reconsideration of its F-35 purchase from the U.S. As geopolitical uncertainties rise, MBDA’s push for a stronger European […]
U.S. Deploys Mid-Range Missile System in the Philippines, Drawing China’s Criticism
The U.S. Army has indefinitely stationed a Mid-Range Capability (MRC) missile system in the Philippines, strengthening its Indo-Pacific deterrence strategy. U.S. Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll emphasized the system’s effectiveness, stating, “We proved the MRC’s deterrent effect via a dynamic deployment in the Philippines and look forward to all future power projection opportunities!” Originally positioned for military drills, the deployment has been extended, prompting strong criticism from China. Meanwhile, the U.S. Army is also considering stationing its Multi-Domain Task Force—including MRC and Long-Range Hypersonic Weapons—in Japan. The move aligns with Washington’s efforts to counter China’s growing military presence in […]
Airbus Urges Germany to Cancel F-35A Order, Prioritize European Defense
Airbus Defense & Space chairman Thomas Pretzl has called on Germany’s new government to cancel its order for 35 Lockheed Martin F-35A jets, citing geopolitical risks under US President Donald Trump. Speaking at Airbus’s Manching facility, Pretzl urged Berlin to prioritize European defense projects, particularly the Eurofighter. Germany’s procurement plan also includes US-made Boeing CH-47F Chinook helicopters and P-8A maritime patrol aircraft, raising concerns about dependency on American systems. Pretzl emphasized the need to accelerate Europe’s Future Combat Air System (FCAS) and Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), warning that current timelines are insufficient to address emerging threats. His remarks reflect […]
Pentagon Dismisses F-35 “Kill Switch” Rumors Amid Global Tensions
The Pentagon has denied claims of a remote “kill switch” for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, reaffirming that all operators maintain full control over their jets. The F-35 Joint Program Office emphasized the aircraft’s joint development with global partners, ensuring sustainment and operational independence for all users. Lockheed Martin highlighted that the F-35 fleet has exceeded 1 million flight hours across 16 US and allied military services. Speculation about US control over allied F-35s has resurfaced as Canada reevaluates its fighter jet procurement amid political tensions and trade disputes with Washington. Despite concerns, the JPO reiterated the program’s strength lies […]
Saab Develops Counter-Drone System for Sweden in Record Time
Saab has collaborated with Sweden’s Defense Materiel Agency (FMV) to develop the Loke counter-drone system in just three months. Loke integrates Saab’s Giraffe 1X surveillance radar, a lightweight command-and-control system, and the Trackfire remote weapon system for rapid threat detection and engagement. The system is designed to counter evolving drone threats, enhancing Sweden’s air defense capabilities. Saab’s rapid development highlights the growing urgency for counter-UAV solutions amid increasing drone warfare. The company has not yet disclosed potential export opportunities for the Loke system. Original news
France, Italy, UK Secure Additional Aster Missiles for Air Defense
France, Italy, and the UK have confirmed the purchase of over 200 additional Aster 15 and 30 surface-to-air missiles from Eurosam, a joint venture between MBDA and Thales. The contract amendment, awarded by OCCAR on March 11 and announced by the French defense procurement agency (DGA) on March 14, expands an earlier order placed in December 2022. The deal includes 218 new Aster missiles and accelerates the delivery of 134 previously ordered units, scheduled for 2025-2026. The Aster 15 is optimized for short-to-medium range air defense, capable of countering high-speed, maneuvering threats in saturation attack scenarios. This procurement reinforces European […]
Europe Rethinks US Defense Reliance Amid Tensions
European leaders are reassessing their dependence on American defense systems due to growing tensions with the Trump administration. French President Emmanuel Macron has urged EU nations to invest in European alternatives, promoting the Franco-Italian SAMP/T missile defense system and Dassault’s Rafale over the US-made Patriot and F-35. Despite this push for defense autonomy, US arms exports remain dominant, with European NATO members still having nearly 500 combat aircraft on order from the US, according to SIPRI. Retired Air Marshal Greg Bagwell pointed out that no viable European alternative exists for fifth-generation stealth fighters, reinforcing American dominance in the sector. The […]
MBDA Boosts Missile Production Amid European Defense Push
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 […]
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 […]