Ukrainian forces are increasingly using modified light aircraft, such as the E-300 SkyRanger, to carry out strikes deep into Russian territory. These drones, capable of carrying significant payloads, were recently deployed in a major attack on Russia’s Novozybkov oil pumping station, highlighting Ukraine’s growing reliance on drone warfare. With limited long-range missile capabilities, Ukraine is focusing on disrupting Russian infrastructure, though analysts question the overall effectiveness of these strikes against Russia’s economic and military resilience. On January 14, Ukraine launched its largest attack yet, using six British Storm Shadow missiles, U.S.-made ATACMS, and 146 drones to strike targets nearly 700 […]
Category: Ukraine
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
Biden administration slowed Ukraine arms shipments until his term was nearly done
A Reuters investigation found that U.S. military aid to Ukraine faced significant delays in President Biden’s final year due to congressional inaction, escalation concerns, and stockpile limitations. A poorly organized weapons-tracking system further complicated deliveries. While aid accelerated following Donald Trump’s election victory, it only returned to early war levels. By late 2024, Ukraine had received just half of promised stockpile aid and 30% of armored vehicles. Meanwhile, Ukraine lost nearly all land gained in 2023, with Russia advancing at a rate of territory equivalent to Manhattan every three days. Original news
Sweden to provide Ukraine with $1.2 billion military aid package
Sweden will supply Ukraine with 13.5 billion kronor in military aid, marking its largest package yet. The assistance includes doubling the number of Stridsbåt 90 combat boats to 32 and delivering 1,500 TOW anti-tank missiles. Sweden has previously sent Leopard 2 tanks, CV90 vehicles, and Archer howitzers to support Ukraine. Additionally, Sweden will contribute about $250 million to international defense funds and allocate $178 million to the Danish model for ordering weapons from Ukraine’s defense industry. The move underscores Sweden’s continued commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s military capabilities. Original news
U.S. Army Uses AI and Blockchain to Track $70 Billion in Ukraine Aid
The U.S. Army is leveraging blockchain, big data, and generative AI to ensure efficient and accountable distribution of nearly $70 billion in aid to Ukraine. Pat Sullivan, an expert at the Army Materiel Command, stressed the importance of maintaining visibility, accountability, and auditability of military equipment. Lt. Col. Colby Smithmeyer highlighted how the war in Ukraine has provided key lessons in modern logistics, particularly in tracking consumption rates. He pointed to the rapid wear of M777 howitzer barrels due to intense use, a rate unseen in previous conflicts like Iraq and Afghanistan. By integrating advanced technology, the Army aims to […]
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 […]
Norwegian F-35s Scrambled In Poland During Russian Missile Strikes On Ukraine
Norway scrambled two F-35A stealth fighters from Poland in response to Russian missile strikes targeting Ukraine. Lt. Col. Eivind Byre of the Royal Norwegian Air Force stated the jets were deployed to protect Polish airspace as part of NATO’s collective defense. The scramble coincided with a large-scale Russian attack involving over 40 missiles and 70 drones aimed at Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Norwegian F-35s and a NASAMS air defense system are stationed in Poland to safeguard critical logistics hubs. This mission, part of NATO operations, is expected to conclude in April. Original news
Ukraine Acquires German RCH 155 Self-Propelled Howitzers
Ukraine has received its first RCH 155 wheeled self-propelled howitzer from Germany, becoming the system’s inaugural operator. A total of 54 units are expected to equip three Ukrainian artillery battalions, with six remaining in Germany initially. The RCH 155 combines the Panzerhaubitze 2000’s advanced artillery system with the Boxer vehicle chassis, offering a highly mobile and automated solution. Its automated turret and range of up to 33.5 miles provide enhanced battlefield capabilities. This acquisition underscores Ukraine’s efforts to modernize its artillery assets amid ongoing war. Original news
Ukraine’s Old Su-25 Attack Jets Have Become Standoff Precision Bombers
The Ukrainian air force has adapted its remaining Sukhoi Su-25 jets to deploy French-made Hammer glide bombs, enhancing their effectiveness against Russian targets. This strategic adjustment allows bombs to be launched from higher altitudes, keeping aircraft outside Russian missile range and reducing losses. Initially operating 43 Su-25s and reinforced with 18 more from Macedonia and Bulgaria, Ukraine has lost at least 20 jets but now employs standoff bombing tactics across its fleet, including MiG-29s and Su-24s. Preparations are underway to integrate Lockheed Martin F-16s with these munitions while testing domestically developed glide bombs on Su-24s. These advancements demonstrate Ukraine’s adaptive […]
Ukraine begins licensed assembly of Colt CZ Bren 2 assault rifle
Ukraine’s state-owned Ukroboronprom began assembling the Czech-designed Colt CZ Bren 2 assault rifle as part of a technology transfer agreement initiated on July 16. The announcement on December 13 highlighted the rifle’s integration into Ukraine’s armed forces. Ceska Zbrojovka A S, part of Colt CZ Group, confirmed on December 20 that assembly is proceeding successfully. Known for its modularity, the Bren 2 is available in various configurations and calibers, including NATO-standard 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm, along with Ukraine’s domestically produced 7.62×39 mm. This initiative reflects Ukraine’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities through international collaboration. Original news
Ukraine Advances Killer Robot Drones With More Automation, Efficiency
Automation is becoming a widespread enhancement to human labor across various industries, including defense. Industrial robots are often tasked with operations they can perform more efficiently than humans, a trend now mirrored in Ukraine’s use of drones. Ukrainian defense planners have developed a 10-level ladder of automation, with fully independent drone swarms as the ultimate goal. Currently, drones employing computer-vision for autonomous targeting are at level four on this scale, according to Max Makarchuk, head of AI at Brave1, Ukraine’s defense-tech coordination platform. These advancements underscore a strategic shift toward integrating artificial intelligence in modern warfare. Original news
Ukraine Bets a Free Market for Weapons Production Can Out-Innovate Russia
Ukraine is fostering an open market for weapons production to counter Russia’s military advantage, leading to the emergence of over 200 new munitions companies since 2022. Ark Robotics, a prominent player, has raised over $1 million and developed 20 drone variants, showcasing the sector’s rapid growth. Ukrainian Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted the need for innovation, stating, “In order to defeat Russia, we can’t just do what they do.” Despite obstacles like power outages and limited infrastructure, the government supports defense startups through grants and platforms like Brave1 to attract foreign investors. This initiative underscores Ukraine’s strategic reliance […]
Ukraine Spurs Weapons Innovation with Growing Defense Tech Industry
Ukraine is cultivating an open market for weapons production to counter Russia’s military advantage, with over 200 new munitions companies established since 2022. Among these, Ark Robotics has emerged as a leader, raising over $1 million and developing 20 drone models. Ukrainian Minister of Digital Transformation Mykhailo Fedorov highlighted the need for entrepreneurial innovation, asserting, “To defeat Russia, we can’t just do what they do.” Despite obstacles like power outages and limited manufacturing infrastructure, the government is supporting defense startups with grants and initiatives such as the Brave1 platform to attract foreign investors. This approach underscores Ukraine’s reliance on technological […]
US to announce final package of new arms for Ukraine in coming days
The Biden administration is preparing to announce a $1.2 billion Ukraine Security Assistance Initiative (USAI) package, focusing on air defense interceptors and artillery munitions. Unlike direct aid, USAI funds procure military equipment from contractors or allies, with delivery timelines spanning months to years. Since February 2022, the U.S. has committed $175 billion in aid to Ukraine, including $61.4 billion for security assistance, half of which is via USAI. This program has supported U.S. defense contractors, such as L3Harris Technologies, which supplied the VAMPIRE system through USAI funding. Uncertainty surrounds future U.S. aid to Ukraine, with some Republican leaders pushing to […]
The growing effectiveness of air-defence systems could blunt the West’s most powerful weapons
Recent advancements in air defense and drone technology are increasingly challenging Western air superiority, raising concerns among military strategists. Russia’s failure to achieve air superiority in Ukraine has underscored the evolving difficulties of maintaining control of the skies. Sir Richard Knighton, head of the Royal Air Force, acknowledged these challenges, stating that past air supremacy is no longer guaranteed. General David Allvin of the U.S. Air Force emphasized the shift toward achieving brief “windows of dominance” rather than prolonged air superiority. Additionally, the rising costs and delays of advanced air fleets, such as the USAF’s $209 billion-over-budget F-35 program, highlight […]