Taiwan is reportedly planning a substantial $15 billion military investment to demonstrate its commitment to self-defense against China to the incoming Trump administration. According to the Financial Times, officials in Taipei have already initiated informal discussions with Trump’s team. Taiwan’s potential purchases include an Aegis-class destroyer, known for its advanced air and missile defense capabilities. Additionally, sources indicate that Taiwan’s request could include up to 60 F-35 fighter jets, 10 retired warships, and 400 Patriot missiles. This package underscores Taiwan’s intent to bolster its defense with modernized and powerful military assets. Original news
Category: USA
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 […]
The US needs to get real about maneuver warfare in space
#analysis Christopher Stone, Senior Fellow at the National Institute for Deterrence Studies, argues for a U.S. shift toward maneuver warfare in space, advocating for the development of space-to-ground weapons (SGWs). Stone criticizes the current defensive posture, proposing more assertive tactics to address threats like China’s anti-access/area-denial capabilities. He highlights China’s advanced space deterrence strategy, which employs “rapid and destructive” maneuvers to assert dominance. Stone suggests that the U.S. Space Force should evolve from a support role to a primary offensive force to retain strategic superiority. He envisions the Space Force as providing a “decisive advantage” over enemy ground forces through […]
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 […]
Netherlands orders 12 H225M helicopters for special operations
The Dutch Ministry of Defence has contracted Airbus for 12 H225M Caracal helicopters to equip special operations forces, replacing the aging AS532 Cougar fleet. Vice-Admiral Jan Willem Hartman and Airbus CEO Bruno Even signed the contract at the Euronaval trade show. Originally, the Netherlands aimed to purchase 14 helicopters, but budget limits reduced the order to 12. These helicopters will come with specialized configurations and advanced systems. Deliveries are expected between 2030 and 2032 due to the complexities of technical integration and production demands. Original news
Lockheed set to provide Sniper pods for Polish FA-50s
Lockheed Martin announced it will supply Sniper Advanced Targeting Pods to Poland for integration with the FA-50 light attack jets from Korea Aerospace Industries. This package includes targeting pods with two-way datalinks, support systems, and spare parts, though no delivery timeline has been specified. The Sniper ATPs are expected to enhance the FA-50s’ ability to identify, track, and engage targets from a safe distance, boosting Poland’s tactical capabilities. While the exact number of pods was not disclosed, a U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency notification from May 2023 estimated that 34 pods might be delivered. This deal reflects Poland’s ongoing efforts […]
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 […]
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
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
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 […]