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 […]
Category: France
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 […]
Poland Considers French Nuclear Security Initiative Amid NATO Concerns
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk confirmed discussions with France on a European nuclear umbrella, signaling Poland’s interest in enhancing its strategic security. Tusk emphasized that modern weapons, including nuclear capabilities, are crucial for Poland’s defense, raising speculation about shifting security alliances. Analysts believe this move sends a message to the U.S., as concerns over NATO’s reliability grow under the Trump administration’s policies toward Russia. Poland is already acquiring 32 F-35 fighter jets, certified to carry U.S. B61-12 tactical nuclear weapons, but these jets cannot deploy French nuclear arms. If Poland pursues a nuclear partnership with France, it may need alternative […]
Dassault Considers Rafale F5 Assembly Line in India Amid Navy Deal Talks
Dassault Aviation is exploring the possibility of establishing a final assembly line in India for its next-generation F5 Rafale aircraft. The discussions come as India negotiates a deal for 26 Rafale-M fighters for the Indian Navy. Dassault CEO Eric Trappier expressed confidence in India’s long-term interest in the Rafale, citing potential future orders from the Indian Army. India previously purchased 36 Rafale jets for €7.9 billion ($8.7 billion) in 2016, strengthening its air combat capabilities. The move signals France’s deepening defense partnership with India and aligns with New Delhi’s push for domestic defense manufacturing. Original news
Dassault Aviation Reports Growth in Falcon Jet Orders and Sales
Dassault Aviation has reported increased demand for its Falcon aircraft, according to its 2024 financial report. The company recorded 26 Falcon orders in 2024, up from 23 in 2023, reflecting steady sales growth. As of December 31, 2024, Dassault maintained a backlog of 79 Falcon jets, indicating strong future deliveries. The increase highlights continued interest in Dassault’s high-performance business jets despite market fluctuations. The company’s growing order book reinforces its position in the global business aviation sector. Original news
France Pledges to Continue Intelligence Sharing With Ukraine as U.S. Halts Support
France has confirmed it will continue sharing military intelligence with Ukraine, despite the U.S. decision to freeze intelligence support. French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on Thursday that France remains committed to providing Kyiv with critical battlefield information. Speaking on France Inter radio, Lecornu emphasized that French intelligence is sovereign and will continue benefiting Ukraine. The move highlights France’s independent stance as the U.S. scales back its involvement. The decision reinforces Paris’ support for Ukraine amid shifting Western policies toward the war. Original news
Dassault Unveils Rafale F5 Fighter Upgrade with Enhanced Capabilities
Dassault Aviation CEO Eric Trappier introduced plans for the F5-standard Rafale fighter during a March 5 presentation in Paris. The upgraded fighter will feature enhanced engines, improved survivability, and a larger unmanned combat air vehicle (UCAV) to support nuclear deterrence missions. Trappier expects a French government development contract soon, with service entry targeted for 2030. Dassault also plans to increase Rafale production, with 25 units set for delivery in 2025. The upgrade reinforces France’s commitment to advancing its air combat capabilities amid evolving security threats. Original news
Thales Expands in Northern Ireland with New Facility and £1.6B Ukraine Missile Deal
Thales will establish a third facility in Northern Ireland, as announced to Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLAs). Prime Minister Keir Starmer revealed that Thales will supply 5,000 lightweight multirole missiles to Ukraine, in a deal worth up to £1.6 billion. Thales Managing Director Nigel MacVean confirmed a £100 million investment, including the new site and the recruitment of 200 staff over the next two years. Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly highlighted the economic and defense benefits, emphasizing the impact on local jobs and Ukraine’s war effort. The expansion strengthens Northern Ireland’s role in the UK’s defense industry and bolsters […]
UK Pledges £1.6 Billion for 5,000 Air-Defense Missiles to Ukraine
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced a £1.6 billion ($2 billion) agreement on Sunday to supply Ukraine with 5,000 air-defense missiles through export finance. The Thales-manufactured missiles, with a range of over 6 kilometers, can be launched from multiple platforms. Starmer stressed the deal’s importance in protecting Ukraine’s critical infrastructure and securing peace amid escalating attacks. The announcement follows Russia’s recent assault using over 200 drones, which Ukraine called the largest since the war began. The commitment reinforces Britain’s continued military support for Ukraine against Russian aggression. Original news
Safran secures navigation systems deal with Finnish Army
Safran Electronics & Defense has signed a contract to supply its Geonyx Inertial Navigation System (INS) to the Finnish Defence Forces for artillery systems from 2024 to 2031. The Geonyx INS, featuring HRG Crystal technology, ensures precise navigation and targeting, even in GPS-denied environments. The system enhances operational accuracy by detecting GPS signal threats and disabling GPS hybridization when necessary. The deal aligns with Finland’s growing defense investments, with military spending projected to reach $4.8 billion by 2028, according to a GlobalData report. The agreement strengthens Finland’s artillery capabilities amid increasing regional security concerns. Original news
Airbus and Naval Group Secure €480M Deal to Upgrade French Navy Communications
Airbus Defence and Space, in partnership with Naval Group, has won a €480 million ($504 million) contract to modernize the French Navy’s communications systems. The deal will equip over 80 vessels, including the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, with the RIFAN 3 network between 2028 and 2032. This upgrade will enhance connectivity and security, enabling collaborative naval combat operations. Eric Even of Airbus emphasized the importance of preparing for future naval warfare through advanced digital networks. The 10-year contract covers both development and operational maintenance, strengthening France’s naval defense capabilities. Original news
Airbus CEO Pushes for Space Merger with Thales and Leonardo
Airbus CEO Guillaume Faury expressed interest in forming a European space alliance with Thales and Leonardo, similar to the MBDA missile consortium. Speaking during an earnings call, he urged EU antitrust regulators to adopt a more flexible approach to enable the merger. Faury emphasized that Europe has strong space technology, but greater scale is needed to stay competitive. He also noted the growing demand for low Earth orbit (LEO) satellite constellations, where U.S. and Chinese companies dominate the market. The proposal reflects Europe’s push to strengthen its space industry amid rising global competition. Original news
Ukraine Receives First Mirage 2000 Fighter Jets from France
Ukraine has received its first batch of Mirage 2000 fighter jets from France, French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed on Thursday. The delivery introduces a second type of Western aircraft into Ukraine’s arsenal, complementing the F-16 jets supplied by allies. Lecornu stated that the jets will now aid in defending Ukraine’s airspace, following the training of Ukrainian pilots in France. The Mirage 2000 is equipped for air-to-ground combat and enhances Ukraine’s ability to integrate NATO weaponry, including Scalp/Storm Shadow cruise missiles. The move strengthens Ukraine’s aerial defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict. Original news
Estonia receives first deliveries of new CAESAR 155mm self-propelled howitzer
Estonia has received its first six CAESAR 155mm 6×6 self-propelled howitzers from KNDS France as part of a 12-unit order placed last year. Lt. Col. Rauno Viitmann, the project officer for the procurement, stated that the new artillery systems will enhance the firepower and reaction speed of Estonia’s forces. Both conscripts and reservists will operate the howitzers, with conscript training set to begin in the coming weeks. Reservist training exercises are planned for mid-2025 as Estonia continues strengthening its defense capabilities. Original news
KNDS, Rheinmetall, Thales move ahead on next-generation tank project
KNDS, Rheinmetall (RHM.DE), and Thales (HO.PA) have signed a shareholder agreement to create a joint company for developing the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS), a next-generation main battle tank for Germany and France. Each partner will hold a 25% stake in the new company. The MGCS is designed to replace the Leopard 2 and Leclerc tanks, with a planned introduction by 2040, although France is pushing for deployment by 2035. KNDS France CEO Nicolas Chamussy highlighted the collaboration as a combination of French and German expertise in battle tank technology. The project aims to counter evolving battlefield threats, such as […]