The UK announced a defense spending increase of £2.9 billion for 2024, raising the Ministry of Defence’s budget to exceed NATO commitments and provide ongoing support to Ukraine. Chancellor Rachel Reeves committed to meeting a 2.5% GDP defense target in the future, though no specific timeline was provided. UK defense expenditure in 2023-2024 was £54 billion, or roughly 2.33% of GDP, with substantial funds allocated for modernizing the armed forces. Challenges remain, with experts noting gaps in the British Army’s readiness and equipment shortfalls against NATO benchmarks. A Strategic Defence Review is set to publish in 2025 to address evolving […]
Author: Veiko Lukmann
MilDef to supply computers for operator stations for CV90s
MilDef’s recent SEK200 million contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds marks a significant step in enhancing the CV90 combat vehicles with ruggedized IT equipment. This partnership will equip Central European forces with advanced operator stations, with deliveries spanning from 2025 to 2029. With options, the contract’s total value could rise to SEK280 million, reflecting MilDef’s growing role in European defense modernization. The CV90’s success across 10 nations, notably in Afghanistan and Ukraine, underscores its battlefield reliability, further strengthening the vehicle’s appeal. MilDef’s ongoing support, including a recent contract with Norway, positions them as a key technology provider in European defense initiatives. […]
Finnish Army to acquire new Patria mortar system
The Finnish Defence Forces announced plans to acquire the Patria TREMOS modular 120mm mortar system, enhancing battlefield mobility and flexibility. A pre-series of the system, known as the 120 KRH M3, will be delivered in 2025 and was recently showcased at the Future Mortar Systems conference in London. The system features a truck-mounted modular carriage, enabling rapid deployment within 60 seconds, quick mobility after firing, and compatibility with various vehicle types. With reduced recoil, the TREMOS system requires no ground support and can operate independently or as part of a larger unit, supporting both 120mm and 81mm mortar ammunition. Despite […]
US And South Korea Announce New Defense Tech Agreement
The US and South Korean defense ministers announced a new joint science and technology committee focused on advanced defense technologies, including exploring South Korea’s participation in AUKUS Pillar II. South Korea’s Minister Kim Yong Hyun confirmed plans to form a vice-minister level committee to drive collaboration on autonomous systems, AI, and quantum technology. The announcement followed a US-Republic of Korea security consultative meeting and will be followed by a “2+2” meeting with Secretary of State Antony Blinken and ROK’s foreign minister. While AUKUS Pillar I remains exclusive to the US, UK, and Australia for nuclear technology, Pillar II offers opportunities […]
More AMRAAMs approved for Denmark under $744 million deal
Demand for Raytheon’s Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs) has surged, with a recent $1.2 billion Pentagon order for 12 countries, plus additional approvals for Israel, Norway, Romania, and Singapore. Denmark has received approval for a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of up to 203 AIM-120D-3 missiles, valued at $744 million, which includes guidance sections, spare parts, and logistical support. Neighboring Norway was cleared for a $1.9 billion purchase of 300 AIM-120C-8 missiles earlier this year. To meet growing demand, Raytheon is doubling production to around 1,200 missiles annually, with hopes to move into multi-year contracts for greater efficiency. The […]
Retired Maj. Gen. John G. Ferrari: Political leaders need to stop standing in the way of defense innovation
#analysis Retired Maj. Gen. John G. Ferrari observed that the AUSA 2024 conference highlighted the rising influence of startups and tech firms in the defense industry. He noted that while traditional defense giants like Lockheed Martin and Raytheon remain dominant, new entrants aim to reshape military procurement. Despite this momentum, startups encounter significant barriers, including complex Congressional appropriation processes and outdated Pentagon procurement rules. Ferrari emphasized the need for incoming political leaders to support defense innovation through systemic reforms. He argues that the next administration should prioritize devolving power to modernize the defense procurement landscape. Original news
Saab posts strong Q3 results
Swedish defense company Saab reported a strong third quarter, with a 41% increase in orders driven by high demand across all business sectors and an anticipated 15-20% sales growth in 2024. CEO Micael Johansson highlighted the need for European nations to replenish defense stocks, contributing to robust international sales, which made up 80% of Q3 orders, with notable growth in the Dynamics sector. Saab is scaling up production through investments in capacity and automation while delivering growth and improved profitability. While Aeronautics sales rose 6% over Q3 2023, production challenges with the T-7 trainer aircraft in the U.S. continue to […]
Rheinmetall and DOK-ING to work together on armed support UGV development
Germany’s Rheinmetall and Croatia’s DOK-ING have partnered to develop the DOK-ING Komodo, a new unmanned ground vehicle (UGV) for mine scattering, armed support, and counter-mobility, scheduled for presentation in 2025. This joint venture will see Rheinmetall providing capability modules, upgrade kits, and international market access, enhancing the Komodo’s versatility in direct and indirect fire, mine-laying, and reconnaissance operations. The Komodo is designed to work alongside tanks and infantry fighting vehicles, complementing Rheinmetall products like the KF51 Panther IFV and Büffel-3 armored recovery vehicle. With speeds up to 60 km/h, it will support operations by mapping mined areas and providing high-speed […]
Croatia to buy 50 German Leopard tanks under Ukraine discount
Croatia has signed a letter of intent with Germany to purchase up to 50 Leopard 2A8 tanks, marking a major modernization step for its armed forces. This acquisition, offered at a discounted price, compensates Croatia for its planned transfer of older M-84 tanks and M-80 infantry vehicles to Ukraine. The agreement was solidified during a meeting between Croatian Defense Minister Ivan Anušić and his German counterpart Boris Pistorius on October 28. Beyond tank acquisition, Rheinmetall and Croatian company DOK-ING also signed a memorandum to jointly develop and market the new DOK-ING Komodo unmanned ground platform. This partnership aligns Croatia with […]
US Sends 2,000 Humvees to Ukraine In Aid Package
The U.S. State Department recently provided Ukraine with a $425 million military aid package, including 2,000 Humvees. These vehicles will bolster Ukraine’s defenses along its extensive 600-mile front amid rising losses, with over 220 vehicles confirmed destroyed in October. Given that the U.S. is phasing out 60,000 Humvees, this transfer represents a practical and cost-effective solution. Ukrainian forces can swiftly deploy these Humvees, having received 3,000 earlier, enhancing their adaptability and efficiency in urban combat scenarios. Known for versatility, Humvees are well-suited for roles in mobile air-defense and artillery, aligning with Ukraine’s flexible, tech-forward defense strategies. Original news
Italy plans to spend 8.2 billion euros on new tanks
The Italian parliamentary committee approved an 8.2 billion euro plan to modernize the nation’s ground forces and procure new-generation tanks, as part of a defense initiative under Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. This program, set for 2025-2038, has 5.4 billion euros allocated, with the remaining 2.7 billion yet to be financed. The defense strategy reflects Italy’s response to increased geopolitical uncertainty across Europe and NATO. Though the parliamentary document omits specific companies, sources indicate the Leonardo-Rheinmetall joint venture, announced in July, is anticipated to play a key role in producing the new Italian MBT (Main Battle Tank). The initiative underscores Italy’s […]
Czech Republic picks Embraer C-390 cargo planes for its air force
The Czech Ministry of Defence has signed a deal to acquire two Embraer C-390 Millennium transport aircraft, making it the fifth NATO member to choose this Brazilian plane. Defense Minister Jana Černochová emphasized the importance of long-range, heavy cargo transport capabilities, citing evacuations from Afghanistan and Sudan as clear examples of this need. The first two aircraft are scheduled for delivery next year, with Czech company Aero Vodochody participating in parts production for the C-390, supporting local industry. An Industrial Cooperation Agreement with Embraer, signed in October, brings the program’s value to over $82.3 million. This acquisition aligns with recent […]
Israel Signs Deal To Expand Iron Beam Production
Israel’s defense ministry has signed a 2 billion shekel ($536 million) agreement with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems and Elbit Systems to scale production of the Iron Beam, a laser-based missile defense system. Expected to be operational within a year, Iron Beam is designed to intercept various aerial threats, including rockets, drones, and cruise missiles. This high-power laser system will work alongside the Iron Dome, which relies on radar-guided missiles for short-range threat interception. Defense Ministry Director Eyal Zamir called the Iron Beam contract a milestone that marks a “new era in warfare.” Experts highlight Iron Beam as a cost-effective solution, […]
Norway buys US-made air defence missiles for over $360 mln
Norway has agreed to purchase AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air defense missiles from the U.S. in a deal exceeding 4 billion NOK (€337m), marking one of its largest military acquisitions. According to Norway’s Defence Minister, this acquisition will enhance Norway’s air defense capabilities, offering better protection against potential threats. The missiles will support ground-based air defense systems but are also compatible with Norway’s fleet of 34 F35A fighter jets. This purchase is part of a broader Nordic trend of bolstering defenses following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine. As neighboring countries like Finland and Sweden increase defense spending and advance NATO integration, Norway […]
Sikorsky Awarded $1.24 Billion For UH-60M Black Hawk Deliveries
Sikorsky has secured a $1.24 billion contract modification from the U.S. Army for UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters under Foreign Military Sales (FMS) for Austria, Brazil, Sweden, Greece, and Thailand. The project is set for completion by the end of 2027. This agreement follows a previous five-year, $2.3 billion contract in June 2022 to deliver 120 H-60M Black Hawks. Potentially extending further, this 10th multi-year contract could reach $4.4 billion, covering over 250 helicopters, including FMS requests. This move aligns with the U.S. Army’s recent aviation strategy shift, reallocating resources from the canceled Future Attack Reconnaissance Aircraft program to additional Black […]