China has banned 25 more U.S.-based defense companies, further expanding its economic blacklist of American military contractors. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated the ban aims to protect national sovereignty and security amid escalating geopolitical tensions. Companies affected include Huntington Ingalls Industries, S3 AeroDefense, Cubic Corporation, TextOre, Exovera, and Teledyne Brown Engineering. The move follows previous bans on Lockheed Martin and Raytheon, imposed after U.S. arms sales to Taiwan. The expanded restrictions highlight China’s growing retaliation against U.S. defense policies and military partnerships. Original news
Category: USA
U.S. Cuts Intelligence Sharing With Ukraine, Pressuring Kyiv Toward Peace Talks
The U.S. has halted intelligence sharing with Ukraine, including targeting data for U.S.-supplied weapons, adding pressure for peace negotiations with Russia. The decision affects HIMARS and ATACMS missile systems, as well as Ukrainian-made long-range drones, limiting Kyiv’s ability to strike Russian targets. Some Ukrainian missile operators report they are no longer receiving key targeting information, weakening their offensive capabilities. The move highlights President Trump’s shift toward a more conciliatory approach to Moscow, diverging from previous strong U.S. support for Ukraine. The policy change underscores growing tensions between Washington and Kyiv amid ongoing geopolitical realignments. Original news
U.S. Defense Industry Faces Stockpile Shortages Despite Innovation Leadership
The Ronald Reagan Institute’s third annual National Security Innovation Base report card, released Tuesday, highlights major concerns in U.S. defense modernization and capacity. While the U.S. leads in defense innovation, the report warns that “critical weapons” stockpiles are dangerously low, earning a D grade in that category. Vice President JD Vance stressed the urgency, stating that the U.S. “cannot defend its national security” without sufficient tank shells, artillery, drones, and advanced weapons systems. Despite receiving an A- for innovation leadership, the U.S. scored only a C in international cooperation. The findings highlight growing concerns over U.S. military readiness amid rising […]
Citi Research Sees Strong Investment Potential in Aerospace and Defense Stocks
Citi Research believes aerospace and defense stocks are undervalued, presenting an opportunity for investors amid rising global defense spending. Analyst Jason Gursky highlighted Europe’s increasing defense budgets and over $300 billion in U.S. defense allocations for the next decade, supporting modernization efforts. Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, and RTX are expected to benefit from President Trump’s missile defense dome initiative. Despite recent disappointing guidance, Lockheed Martin could see a 34% upside in valuation, according to Gursky. The report underscores growing investor confidence in defense firms amid heightened global security concerns. Original news
U.S. Space Industry Warns of Insufficient Launch Infrastructure Amid Growing Demand
Executives from Blue Origin, SpaceX, and United Launch Alliance (ULA) raised concerns at the Air & Space Forces Association’s Warfare Conference on March 3 about current launch facilities being unable to handle the expected surge in rocket launches. Blue Origin CEO Dave Limp emphasized the need for upgrades, envisioning a future with multiple launches per day. ULA President and CEO Tory Bruno supported infrastructure reforms, advocating for greater industry involvement in funding decisions. Bruno proposed a joint government-industry board to oversee and prioritize investments as launch needs evolve. The executives called for modernized launch protocols and better coordination to sustain […]
EU Unveils €800 Billion Defense Plan Amid U.S. Uncertainty
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has announced an €800 billion ($841 billion) “REARM Europe” initiative to bolster EU defense capabilities amid concerns over potential U.S. disengagement. The proposal will be presented to 27 EU leaders during an emergency meeting in Brussels on Thursday, following President Donald Trump’s remarks on U.S. support for Europe and Ukraine. Von der Leyen stressed the need to ease fiscal constraints so member states can increase defense spending, with an average 1.5% of GDP increase expected to generate €650 billion ($683 billion) over four years. The initiative underscores Europe’s push for greater military self-reliance […]
U.S. Prepares to Store Nuclear Weapons at RAF Lakenheath Amid Rising Tensions
The United States is preparing to house nuclear weapons at RAF Lakenheath in Britain for the first time in nearly two decades, according to satellite images and a report from the Federation of American Scientists (FAS). The report indicates that 22 previously deactivated bunkers have been upgraded, with the decision to reactivate Lakenheath’s nuclear capability made as early as 2021. This move is seen as a response to worsening U.S.-Russia relations following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. The FAS states that the upgrades aim to enhance the survivability of Western nuclear reserves and complicate Russia’s targeting strategy, though no nuclear weapons […]
Norway Receives Three More F-35 Jets, Total Now at 49
Norway has received three new F-35A aircraft from Lockheed Martin, bringing its total fleet to 49 jets, with three more expected by summer. The aircraft arrived on February 27 and are now stationed at Ørland Air Station. Col. Tord Aslaksen praised Lockheed Martin’s delivery efficiency, highlighting the complexity of fifth-generation fighter production. A report by the Center for Policy and Analysis raises concerns over Europe’s reliance on the F-35, warning that airpower cannot fully replace ground-based firepower. The deliveries strengthen Norway’s defense posture amid growing regional security challenges. Original news
Ukraine Seeks European Air Defense Support Amid Uncertainty Over U.S. Aid
Following a contentious U.S. press conference, Ukraine is urgently seeking replacements for American-made air defense systems, particularly Patriot batteries. Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram stressed that air defense remains Ukraine’s most critical need, as the country turns to European allies for support. U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer pledged $2 billion for short-range Martlet missiles, while Norway plans to co-produce surface-to-air missiles with Ukraine. However, Ukraine still faces a pressing need for long-range systems, with SAMP/T missiles emerging as a possible alternative. The shift highlights Ukraine’s growing reliance on European partners to sustain its air defense capabilities. Original news
HD Hyundai Advances AI-Driven Shipyard Automation with Palantir
HD Hyundai Executive Vice Chairman Chung Ki-sun reaffirmed the company’s commitment to building an AI-powered automated shipyard with minimal human intervention. The Future of Shipyard (FOS) project, launched in 2021 and set for completion by 2030, aims to increase productivity by 30% and cut shipbuilding time by 30% through AI, robotics, and digital twins. Palantir Technologies highlighted Hyundai’s digital transformation efforts in a video released on Wednesday. Chung emphasized the importance of marine mobility innovations, focusing on electrification and eco-friendly solutions. The initiative positions HD Hyundai as a leader in next-generation smart shipbuilding. Original news
Poland Signs $300M Lease for Apache Helicopters Ahead of Major Fleet Expansion
Poland has signed a $300 million leasing agreement with the U.S. for eight Boeing AH-64D Apache Longbow helicopters to train pilots and maintainers. The Polish Ministry of National Defence (MND) announced on February 27 that these helicopters will prepare crews for the future delivery of 96 AH-64E Apache Guardians under Poland’s Kruk program. Secretary of State Paweł Bejda confirmed that Polish instructors are currently in training, with the AH-64D units serving as a transitional model until 2028. The AH-64E helicopters will significantly enhance Poland’s combat and reconnaissance capabilities, making it the second-largest Apache operator after the U.S.. The deal reflects […]
Experts Urge Faster NASA Decision-Making to Beat China to the Moon
Space policy experts have urged U.S. lawmakers to accelerate NASA’s decision-making to ensure the U.S. reaches the Moon before China. During a House Science, Space, and Technology Subcommittee hearing, Scott Pace and Daniel Dumbacher called for adopting commercial sector efficiency, recommending that NASA’s next administrator present a plan within 60 days to align with White House space goals. They emphasized a Moon-first strategy, citing its strategic importance in the space race. Rep. Zoe Lofgren (D-CA) criticized former President Trump’s impact on NASA, stating the agency’s workforce was left scared, distracted, and demoralized. The discussion reflects growing concerns over China’s rapid […]
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
Germany’s F-35 Order Faces Uncertainty Amid Calls for Defense Independence
Analysts are raising concerns about the future of U.S. defense sales to Germany, particularly the $8.8 billion order for Lockheed Martin F-35A jets. Friedrich Merz, the CDU’s chancellor candidate, has pushed for greater German defense independence, casting doubt on ongoing U.S.-German military contracts. A Lockheed Martin spokesperson deferred political questions to the German government, emphasizing that the F-35 procurement is a government-to-government agreement. While some U.S. contracts, such as the CH-47F helicopter deal, are expected to proceed, analysts warn that Germany’s push for self-reliance could impact future sales. The shift reflects growing European efforts to reduce dependence on U.S. military […]
Ukrainian F-16s Engage Russian Forces with Advanced Weaponry
Ukraine’s newly acquired F-16 fighters are now actively engaging Russian forces along the 800-mile front line, armed with air-to-air missiles, precision glide bombs, and radar jammers. The jets, supplied by Denmark, The Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium, offer superior capabilities compared to Ukraine’s Soviet-era aircraft, including the AN/ALQ-131 electronic countermeasures (ECM) pod. A U.S. Air Force official highlighted the ECM pod’s strategic impact, stating it can create “a pocket of air superiority” to achieve mission-critical objectives. Despite these enhancements, Ukraine remains dependent on U.S. programming support for the ECM systems. The F-16s mark a significant step in modernizing Ukraine’s air force […]