Bombardier CEO Eric Martel raised concerns about potential U.S. tariffs if Canada cancels its C$19 billion contract for 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets. The Canadian government, under new Prime Minister Mark Carney, is reviewing the deal due to ongoing trade tensions with the U.S.. Martel warned that Bombardier could shift priorities to non-U.S. clients if tariffs are imposed, stating, “Effectively, we could be targeted, this is my concern.” Despite the review, Canada’s Defense Ministry has already committed funds for the first 16 F-35 aircraft. The decision could have significant implications for Canada’s defense industry and its trade relations with […]
Category: USA
Portugal Considers European Jets Over F-35s Amid U.S. Policy Uncertainty
Portugal may replace its aging F-16 fighter jets with European alternatives instead of the F-35 due to concerns over U.S. President Donald Trump’s shifting NATO policies. Defense Minister Nuno Melo highlighted fears that the U.S. could impose restrictions on aircraft use, maintenance, and components, impacting Portugal’s operational readiness. Despite these concerns, the Defense Ministry clarified that the F-35 has not been ruled out, but European-made jets are also under consideration. Portugal’s decision reflects broader European concerns about reducing reliance on U.S. defense systems amid growing uncertainty over future American security commitments. Original news
Canada Reassesses F-35 Purchase Amid Trade Tensions with U.S.
Canada is reviewing its purchase of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35 fighter jets due to trade tensions initiated by U.S. President Donald Trump. Prime Minister Mark Carney has tasked Defense Minister Bill Blair with evaluating whether the contract remains the best investment for Canada. Defense ministry officials clarified that the contract has not been canceled but acknowledged the need for further assessment given the shifting geopolitical environment. Lockheed Martin reaffirmed its commitment to the Royal Canadian Air Force, stating that procurement decisions are matters for the Canadian and U.S. governments. The review raises uncertainty over Canada’s long-term defense strategy as it […]
EU to Launch Pan-European Defense Projects to Address Security Gaps
The European Commission plans to invite EU nations to identify their most critical defense needs as part of large-scale pan-European flagship projects, according to a draft white paper. The document, set for release next week, responds to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing the need for Europe to strengthen its defense capabilities independently of U.S. support. It highlights capability gaps in air defense and cyber warfare, urging collaborative efforts to close these vulnerabilities. The draft also suggests deepening the European defense market to improve coordination and efficiency. This initiative marks a strategic shift toward self-reliance in European defense policy. Original news
European Satellite Firms Call for Collaboration to Compete with SpaceX
At the Satellite 2025 conference in Washington, European satellite manufacturers urged greater cooperation to compete with vertically integrated players like SpaceX. Benoit Deper, CEO of Aerospacelab, emphasized the need for joint ventures and mergers to share risk, warning against repeating past failures in Europe’s launch ecosystem. Thales Alenia Space CEO Hervé Derrey highlighted that co-engineering and deeper collaboration are essential for fostering innovation, as traditional vendor-supplier relationships are no longer sufficient. In response to supply-chain challenges, companies are strengthening supplier partnerships and expanding production capacities. The push for European cooperation reflects the growing urgency to enhance competitiveness in the global […]
Palantir Expands AI-Powered Warp Speed Program to Six New Defense Customers
Palantir has announced six new customers for its Warp Speed AI operating system, designed to optimize manufacturing, fleet management, and maintenance. The new partners include Epirus, Red Cat, Saildrone, Saronic, Ursa Major, and Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), expanding Warp Speed’s defense and aerospace applications. Originally launched in December 2024, Warp Speed enhances production, scheduling, and engineering management and is already used by L3Harris, Shield AI, Anduril Industries, and Panasonic Energy of North America. Palantir’s Head of Industrials Emily Nguyen emphasized that Warp Speed enables faster and more efficient defense production, crucial for keeping pace with evolving threats. Palantir plans to […]
U.S. to Resume GLSDB Shipments to Ukraine After Upgrades
The U.S. is set to resume shipments of Ground-Launched Small Diameter Bombs (GLSDBs) to Ukraine after upgrading them to counter Russian jamming. These long-range bombs will arrive as Ukraine’s stockpile of ATACMS missiles has reportedly been depleted. In recent weeks, 19 GLSDBs were test-fired to evaluate the effectiveness of the upgrades. Their deployment could happen within days, as a stockpile is already positioned in Europe. The move aims to enhance Ukraine’s long-range strike capabilities amid ongoing battles against Russian forces. Original news
Satellite Operators Push Back Against Starlink Dominance Narrative
Satellite operators are challenging the perception that Starlink dominates the satellite communications industry, emphasizing their own market growth. SES CEO Adel Al-Saleh pointed out that Starlink’s wins are amplified, while other companies also secure major contracts. Intelsat CEO David Wajsgras highlighted upcoming in-flight connectivity deals and expansion into agriculture and border security markets. Meanwhile, Telesat CEO Dan Goldberg expressed confidence in the Lightspeed constellation, citing strong demand for high-quality broadband services. The industry’s leaders stress that competition remains strong, despite Starlink’s visibility in the market. Original news
U.S. Defense Startups Partner With Ukraine to Improve Battlefield Drones
American drone technology has underperformed in combat, prompting U.S. defense startups to collaborate with Ukrainian manufacturers to develop more effective, war-tested aircraft. This partnership has gained the attention of the U.S. Department of Defense, which is exploring battle-proven drone innovations. Startup CX2 secured a deal in 2023 to integrate its software and sensors into Ukrainian drones, enhancing their capabilities. The U.S. military has approved this collaboration, with potential plans to deploy these advanced drones for American forces. The initiative highlights a shift toward leveraging Ukraine’s battlefield experience to strengthen U.S. drone capabilities. Original news
Dutch Defense Minister Reaffirms Strong Commitment to F-35 Program
Dutch Minister of Defence Ruben Brekelmans reaffirmed the strong commitment of partner nations to the Lockheed Martin F-35 program during the Paris Defence and Strategy Forum. He emphasized that keeping the F-35 operational and successful is in the best interest of all participating countries, noting no signs of U.S. withdrawal from the program. Brekelmans highlighted European collaboration on the F-35 and stressed the importance of U.S. support in sustaining its effectiveness. The Netherlands has received 40 of its 52 ordered F-35s and plans to acquire six more as part of its modernization efforts. Lockheed Martin confirmed last week that it […]
Lithuania Strengthens Defense Ties With U.S. Contractors Amid Russian Threat
Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Šakalienė is deepening collaboration with major U.S. defense firms, including Lockheed Martin, to enhance military capabilities against growing Russian threats. During a recent roundtable, she expressed satisfaction with discussions, stating, “We require a lot from them.” Lithuania plans to increase its military budget to 5-6% of GDP, requiring at least $8 billion in defense spending over the coming years. Šakalienė emphasized Lithuania as both a defense market and a strategic partner, underscoring mutual benefits for U.S. firms. The initiative highlights Lithuania’s commitment to strengthening its defense posture through advanced military acquisitions. Original news
European Nations Dismiss Claims of U.S. “Kill Switch” in F-35 Jets
European countries are denying concerns that the U.S. has a “kill switch” for F-35 fighter jets, which are critical to their defense. The issue resurfaced after former President Donald Trump’s suspension of military aid to Ukraine, raising fears over European nations’ operational control of their F-35 fleets. Joachim Schranzhofer of German defense firm Hensoldt stated that while there is no direct kill switch, the U.S. could block access to essential software, effectively grounding the aircraft. As Germany prepares to receive 35 F-35s in 2026, concerns are mounting over U.S. control of critical defense technology. The debate underscores Europe’s growing push […]
India Rejects Trump’s Proposal to Buy U.S. F-35 Fighter Jets
Indian officials have dismissed Donald Trump’s proposal for the U.S. to sell F-35 stealth fighters to India. Air Chief Marshal AP Singh clarified that India has not made a formal request for the jets and has not considered them as part of its modernization plans. While India acknowledges the need to keep pace with advanced military technology, the high cost of the F-35s remains a major deterrent. Trump’s offer is viewed as an attempt to expand U.S. influence in India’s defense industry. However, India is expected to focus on indigenous fighter programs and partnerships with France and Russia for its […]
Canada Warns of U.S. Control Over F-35 Upgrades Amid Rising Tensions
The Canadian Department of National Defence has warned that the U.S. will control software and hardware upgrades for Canada’s new F-35 fleet. Officials dismissed concerns about a potential U.S. “kill switch”, stating that Canada will retain operational control over its jets. However, the warning comes amid rising tensions between Canada and the U.S., fueled by President Trump’s trade policies and rhetoric. Lockheed Martin was asked whether it had received assurances from the U.S. government regarding Canada’s continued access to upgrades. Company spokesperson Rebecca Miller reaffirmed Lockheed’s commitment to supporting F-35 customers with necessary system infrastructure and sustainment data. Original news
Palantir Delivers First TITAN AI Ground Systems to U.S. Army
Palantir Technologies has delivered the first two Tactical Intelligence Targeting Access Node (TITAN) systems to the U.S. Army, enhancing battlefield data integration and targeting capabilities. The delivery follows a $178 million contract awarded in March 2024 for 10 next-generation AI-driven ground systems. TITAN is designed to strengthen the link between data-gathering sensors, weapons, and decision-makers, improving long-range targeting accuracy and speed. The system leverages AI and real-time data processing to enhance military situational awareness. The deployment marks a major step in the Army’s modernization efforts, aiming to improve battlefield intelligence and decision-making. Original news