Ukraine is stepping up its military capabilities by increasing the production of automated attack drones that incorporate budget-friendly computers, achieving the functionality of more expensive systems at a fraction of the cost. The US-based company Auterion is contributing to this effort by supplying tens of thousands of Skynode minicomputers, which are slated for deployment on the battlefield in early next year. Additionally, the Ukrainian startup Vyriy Drone is rapidly increasing production, aiming to complete several thousand autopilot drones this month to maintain Ukraine’s technological superiority over Russia. Auterion’s founder, Lorenz Meier, points out that the technology itself is not new; […]
Category: Ukraine
Taiwan Defense Ministry Silent Over Ukraine Missile Gift Questions
Taiwan’s Minister of National Defense, Wellington Koo, remained reserved regarding reports of Taiwan’s military aid to Ukraine and a prospective major arms purchase from the U.S. According to Forbes, Taiwan allegedly donated surplus HAWK surface-to-air missile batteries to Ukraine, though Koo clarified these decommissioned missiles were no longer necessary for Taiwan’s defense. He also addressed speculation from the Financial Times that Taiwan may seek to purchase Aegis destroyers, E-2D Advanced Hawkeyes, Patriot missiles, and F-35 jets from the U.S. Koo confirmed Taiwan’s openness to all viable defense options without specifying particular systems under consideration. His remarks underline Taiwan’s cautious approach […]
U.S. will send contractors to Ukraine to help fix its weapons
The Pentagon announced Friday it will deploy a limited number of U.S. defense contractors to Ukraine to repair advanced American-made weaponry, including F-16 fighter jets and Patriot air defense systems. This move responds to concerns over President-elect Donald Trump’s uncertain stance on maintaining U.S. military and economic support for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict with Russia. Defense officials withheld specific locations in Ukraine where contractors will be stationed, citing security reasons. They noted, however, that several U.S. companies already have personnel on the ground assisting the Ukrainian government. The contractors’ presence aims to ensure sustained functionality of critical defense systems […]
Reassessing ‘Saint Javelin’: Crunching Anti-Tank Missile Numbers
#analysis The ‘Saint Javelin’ meme, depicting a Madonna figure holding a U.S. missile launcher, has popularized the Javelin anti-tank missile as a symbol of American aid to Ukraine. While celebrated for its effectiveness against Russian tanks, the Javelin’s real impact appears limited, with data suggesting a far lower kill rate than its reputation implies. Approximately 45,000 guided missiles from the U.S., UK, and Ukraine’s own stock have been supplied, but only an estimated 20% have led to confirmed tank kills. Other weapons, like FPV kamikaze drones and artillery, have proven more decisive in destroying Russian armor. Given the high costs […]
Croatia procures Leopard 2A8 MBTs and HIMARS
Croatia is set to acquire Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks and High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS), as announced by Vice-President and Defence Minister Ivan Anušić on November 5. The cost of the 40-50 Leopard tanks will be offset by German financial support for Croatia’s provision of armored vehicles to Ukraine, under a recent letter of intent (LoI). Anušić and German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius signed the LoI on October 28 in Berlin, outlining plans to deliver 30 M-84 tanks and 30 M-80 infantry fighting vehicles, along with spare parts and ammunition, from Croatia to Ukraine. Additionally, Croatia is slated […]
US to speed up interceptor missiles delivery to Ukraine
The United States plans to send over 500 interceptor missiles to Ukraine in the coming weeks, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. These shipments include interceptors for the Patriot missile defense system and NASAMS, aimed at supporting Ukraine’s air defense needs through year-end. This increase in aid comes shortly after Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris in the recent U.S. presidential election. In a related move, the Biden administration has introduced a policy change permitting U.S. defense contractors to operate within Ukraine for maintenance and repair of American-supplied weaponry. This shift underscores a commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defense infrastructure […]
EU Is Looking at Ramping Up Ukraine Aid If Trump Pulls Plug
European Union leaders are assessing their ability to sustain support for Ukraine’s war effort if Donald Trump were to withdraw U.S. assistance. The U.S. remains crucial for supplying advanced weapons like F-16s and ATACMs, as well as for producing essential 155mm shells central to Ukraine’s defense. In a Budapest meeting on Thursday, officials examined both financial and military ramifications of a potential U.S. shift. The EU has committed €118 billion in aid to Ukraine—nearly double the U.S. contribution of €85 billion—raising concerns about continued access to military resources primarily provided by the U.S. While Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban questioned […]
Ukraine, Lithuania to Jointly Produce Unmanned, Electronic Warfare Systems
Ukraine and Lithuania have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly produce unmanned systems, electronic warfare tools, and advanced technologies. This agreement includes plans for collaborative research and development in defense innovation. Ukrainian Minister Herman Smetanin signed the document alongside Lithuania’s defense officials, highlighting Lithuania’s role as a steadfast ally. Lithuania has already shown strong support for Ukraine, recently donating 5,000 drones, military equipment, and essential supplies. In August 2024, Lithuania further committed to Ukraine’s defense by providing a package of M113 armored personnel carriers, air defense systems, and counter-drone technologies. Original news
Czech Initiative Faces Challenges In Supplying Artillery To Ukraine
The Czech Republic is facing logistical and financial difficulties with its initiative to supply Ukraine with artillery shells, including plans for 500,000 rounds of 155mm and 300,000 rounds of 122mm, valued at $3.2 billion. Challenges have emerged regarding the concealment and technical reliability of these shells. In response, Czech Defense Minister Jana Černochová introduced “Initiative 2025,” which aims to leverage frozen Russian assets for funding. This initiative is part of broader efforts to support Ukraine’s defense amid a critical ammunition shortage, as European and U.S. manufacturers must double production to meet the rising demand. Additionally, Ukraine has requested ATACMS missiles […]
US Announces $425 Million in New Ukraine Military Aid
The U.S. Department of Defense announced a new military aid package for Ukraine, marking the sixty-ninth tranche of support since the conflict began. This package aims to enhance Ukraine’s defenses with a range of equipment, including air defense interceptors, HIMARS munitions, anti-tank systems, and armored vehicles. Meanwhile, intelligence reports indicate that over 10,000 North Korean troops may have joined Russian forces, possibly to reinforce Russia’s intense infantry assaults. Ukrainian President Zelensky recently informed South Korea’s President Yoon that around 3,000 North Korean troops are stationed near the conflict zone. U.S. Defense Secretary Austin expressed concern over Russia’s potential deployment of […]
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
Pentagon Invests $800 Million In Ukrainian Drone Production
The United States is providing Ukraine with $800 million to enhance domestic long-range drone production, empowering Kyiv to counter Russian aggression with its own weaponry. U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin highlighted Ukraine’s capability to mass-produce effective, long-range drones, supporting deep strikes against Russian targets. This assistance not only bolsters Ukraine’s military capacity but also relieves pressure on Western arms production amid increased global demand. Unlike restricted missile use, there are no limitations on Ukraine’s deployment of drones, which are economical and can achieve strategic disruption against Russian assets. Additionally, allies like Denmark, Canada, and the Netherlands are contributing to […]
Experts Discuss Ukraine’s Use of Western Military Equipment
#analysis The ongoing war in Ukraine is consuming Western-supplied tanks and fighter jets as Ukrainian forces employ them in high-risk, high-reward strategies, according to military experts. They argue that the West should expect losses if Ukraine uses these assets effectively. Michael Bohnert from RAND Corporation suggests that if weapons like F-16s or Abrams tanks survive the war, they likely weren’t used to their full potential. William Alberque from the Stimson Center adds that using these weapons, even if destroyed, is justified if they help inflict significant losses on Russia. Despite sending older models, Western allies must embrace the risks involved […]
Greece And Ukraine Sign Security Agreement
Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis signed a security agreement with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, aligning Greece with the European Union and 20 other EU members in supporting Ukraine’s security. The agreement, signed during the European Council meeting in Brussels, aims to bolster Ukraine’s defense against Russia’s invasion. It complements other international agreements with Ukraine, signaling Greece’s commitment to Ukraine’s reconstruction. Zelenskiy announced that Greece is prepared to meet Ukraine’s urgent defense needs and will accelerate F-16 pilot and technician training. The agreement highlights Greece’s active role in Ukraine’s ongoing defense and recovery efforts. Original news