Lockheed Martin is in the final stages of selecting a location in Europe for a new weapons production facility, according to Tim Cahill, president of its Missiles and Fire Control division. The move is part of the company’s broader effort to expand production across its missile families amid surging demand. Establishing a European site would help support NATO allies and meet growing regional defense needs. Cahill emphasized the importance of aligning with partner nations to ensure timely delivery and localized support. The expansion reflects Lockheed’s strategy to strengthen its presence and capabilities outside the U.S. Original news
Category: NATO
UK Seeks Inclusion in EU’s €800 Billion Defense Plan Amid Macron’s Opposition
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer is pushing for Britain to be treated as an EU member state in the bloc’s €800 billion defense initiative, despite resistance from French President Emmanuel Macron. The plan, designed to boost European defense spending and manufacturing in response to Russian aggression, includes a “buy European” clause that could exclude the UK due to Brexit. While European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and some EU members support UK participation, Macron favors limiting the initiative to EU countries. The UK government argues that closer defense cooperation with the EU and NATO is essential for European […]
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. 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 […]
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 […]
Poland Weighs Airbus and Boeing Bids for New Transport and Refueling Aircraft
The Polish Ministry of National Defence is advancing plans to acquire new transport and refueling aircraft, with Airbus and Boeing competing for the contracts. Poland is considering accelerating air refueling capabilities under the Karkonosze program, which will support its F-16 fleet and future F-35 fighters, expected in 2026. Airbus’ A330 MRTT and A400M are being evaluated, while Boeing is promoting its KC-46 tanker and F-15EX fighter jets. The decision follows Poland’s $10 billion deal for 96 AH-64E Apache helicopters in August 2024. The acquisitions reflect Poland’s ongoing military modernization and NATO commitments. Original news
NATO Tensions Under Trump Create Defense Opportunities for India
Rising tensions between President Donald Trump and NATO over defense spending could open new opportunities for India in the global defense market. During high-level White House talks, Trump questioned UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Europe’s ability to defend itself against Russia without U.S. support. The dispute is expected to push European nations to boost defense budgets, with Starmer already announcing increased UK military spending. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU defense commissioner Andrius Kubilius have emphasized India’s potential role in European defense supply chains. India aims to expand its defense exports and further integrate into global […]
U.S. Air Force Prepares RAF Lakenheath for Potential Nuclear Weapons Return
Ongoing construction at RAF Lakenheath in England suggests the U.S. Air Force may reintroduce nuclear weapons to the base for the first time since 2008. A Federation of American Scientists (FAS) report highlights upgrades to Protective Aircraft Shelters and new F-35A infrastructure, indicating preparations for a potential nuclear mission. While there are no confirmed reports of nuclear weapons being deployed, the base is being made ready to accommodate them. This development aligns with NATO’s evolving nuclear strategy amid rising tensions with Russia. The move signals a possible shift in U.S. and European deterrence postures. Original news
Rheinmetall Secures €260 Million Deal to Support German and NATO Troop Logistics
Rheinmetall has signed a €260 million ($271 million) framework agreement with Germany’s Bundeswehr to provide logistical support for troop redeployments domestically and internationally. Announced on Wednesday, the contract runs for three years with an option to extend until 2029. The agreement also includes logistical support for NATO forces, reinforcing Germany’s role as a key military hub in Europe. CEO Armin Papperger highlighted that rising European defense spending, partly influenced by Donald Trump’s calls for increased military investment, could drive significant company growth. The deal strengthens Germany’s ability to mobilize and support forces amid growing security concerns. Original news
NATO Conducts Major Combat Drills in Romania Amid U.S. Policy Uncertainty
NATO continued its largest combat exercises of 2025, Steadfast Dart, in Romania on Wednesday, as concerns grow over the U.S. stance under President Donald Trump. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s push for increased military spending from allies has raised doubts about U.S. security commitments in Europe. The drills involve 10,000 personnel from nine nations, including Romania, Bulgaria, and Greece, under NATO’s new Allied Reaction Force. Romania has taken a prominent role in the alliance, donating a Patriot missile system to Ukraine and opening an F-16 training hub for allied pilots. Adm. Stuart B. Munsch stressed NATO’s adaptation to modern threats, while […]
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 […]
Belgium Pledges to Boost Defense Spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2034
Belgium’s new government, led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever, has committed to increasing defense spending to NATO’s 2% GDP target by 2029 and 2.5% by 2034. Defense Minister Theo Francken called past underinvestment a “period of national disgrace” and emphasized the need for modernization. The plan includes funding for air defense, additional F-35 fighter jets, a third frigate, and increased munitions stockpiles. Belgium, which spent just 1.3% of GDP on defense last year, will support upgrades through a €2.4 billion Defense Fund. The Ministry of Defence will present a new investment plan ahead of the NATO summit in June. […]
Ukraine’s Delta battlespace management system may be used in NATO joint planning
NATO is evaluating Ukraine’s Delta battlespace management system for potential use in joint military operations. US Navy Lieutenant Commander Danielle Moser stated on January 17 that while Delta has not yet been adopted, it shows promise due to its alignment with NATO standards. The system has been tested in NATO’s Coalition Warrior Interoperability Exercise (CWIX), with Ukraine actively participating for five years to refine its interoperability. Lieutenant Colonel Elizabeth Boiko highlighted Delta’s ability to transmit operational data using NATO Vector Graphics and Multilateral Interoperability Programme formats, essential for seamless communication between command-and-control systems. This development underscores Delta’s potential to enhance […]
NATO Strengthens Baltic Defense Amid Undersea Cable Sabotage
NATO has initiated Operation Baltic Sentry to address suspected Russian sabotage of underwater cables in the Baltic Sea. An international flotilla, supported by elite divers, submersible drones, and advanced aircraft such as F-35 fighter jets, has assembled near Tallinn, Estonia, to protect critical gas pipelines and internet cables. The UK has deployed P-8 Poseidon submarine-hunting aircraft and Rivet Joint spy planes, following the Royal Navy’s tracking of the Russian spy ship Yantar. Finnish authorities have accused the Eagle S tanker of damaging cables, adding to growing tensions in the region. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned of consequences for any threats […]
Sweden Joins NATO Efforts to Bolster Baltic Sea Security
Sweden has pledged to support NATO’s enhanced naval presence in the Baltic Sea by contributing up to three warships, one ASC 890 surveillance aircraft, and four coast guard ships. This commitment follows NATO’s recent decision to strengthen its naval posture in response to increased Russian activities in the region. Finnish media report that NATO may deploy up to ten warships to protect critical underwater infrastructure. Meanwhile, Estonia’s navy has intensified patrols in the Gulf of Finland as Finland investigates suspected sabotage of the Estlink 2 submarine cable, allegedly involving Russia’s ‘shadow fleet.’ Sweden’s participation underscores its commitment to regional security […]