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 power in Europe.
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- 03/12/2024
- 0
Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo are exploring the creation of a joint space company, “Project Bromo,” to rival Elon Musk’s Starlink. The proposed entity would be a standalone European satellite firm modeled after MBDA, a missile maker jointly owned by Airbus, Leonardo, and BAE Systems. Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani confirmed the structure would follow the MBDA model, aiming to strengthen Europe’s satellite capabilities. Sources indicated the merger is independent of Airbus’s planned job cuts and could take years to finalize. This initiative highlights Europe’s strategic push for autonomy in the satellite and space industries. Original news
ESA Launches European Launcher Challenge to Boost Sovereign Rocket Development
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Satellite Operators Push Back Against Starlink Dominance Narrative
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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