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 […]
Category: USA
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 […]
Germany Selects Piranha 5 for Bundeswehr’s Tactical Communication Network
The German Army has chosen General Dynamics European Land Systems’ (GDELS) Piranha 5 8×8 armored vehicle for its TaWAN LBO-integrated communication network. GDELS will begin delivering the first batch of 58 vehicles in 2026. Each Piranha 5 will be equipped with a 15-meter telescopic mast system, serving as a highly mobile, armored connectivity point for the TaWAN network. The selection enhances the Bundeswehr’s battlefield communication capabilities, ensuring secure and resilient data transmission. The deal reinforces Germany’s push for modern, networked land-based military operations. Original news
Kongsberg’s Hugin Superior Passes U.S. Navy Testing for Autonomous Underwater Operations
Kongsberg Discovery’s Hugin Superior autonomous underwater vehicle has successfully completed acceptance testing for the Defense Innovation Unit and the U.S. Navy. The final tests took place in Norway in early 2025, following a 24-month contract awarded to Kongsberg for Large Diameter Unmanned Underwater Vehicles. Richard Patterson, Kongsberg’s vice president of sales, highlighted the company’s enthusiasm for expanding collaboration with the U.S. Navy. The Hugin Superior, operational since 2019, specializes in subsea warfare and infrastructure inspection, offering over 70 hours of endurance per charge. The successful trials reinforce Kongsberg’s role in advancing autonomous maritime defense technology. Original news
Poland, Finland, and Baltics Strengthen Defenses Amid Rising Russia Concerns
European nations, including Poland, Finland, and the Baltic States, are ramping up their defense systems in response to perceived threats from Russia. Poland is investing €2.5 billion in border defenses, including a missile defense system modeled after Israel’s Iron Dome. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk emphasized the importance of the initiative, calling for a European missile defense shield. Meanwhile, Germany has spent €30-40 billion on F-35A fighters and over €60 billion on ammunition and missiles since 2022, while the UK is reviewing its military strategy amid equipment cuts. The growing investments highlight Europe’s urgency in strengthening its defenses against evolving […]
Reusable Rocket Recovery Causes Congestion at Port Canaveral
The growing use of reusable rockets is causing congestion at Port Canaveral, as space companies park vessels alongside cruise ships for extended periods. Canaveral Port Authority CEO John Murray raised concerns at the National Space Club meeting, citing a lack of space for prolonged stays. SpaceX, Blue Origin, and ULA are among the key contributors, with SpaceX recovering 69 boosters and 165 fairings in 2024. Murray warned that congestion could worsen as at least 10 more space companies plan to use the port this year. The rising demand for rocket recovery and storage highlights the challenges of supporting commercial spaceflight […]
U.S. Approves Romania’s $84 Million Purchase of Boeing Small Diameter Bombs
Romania has secured U.S. approval for a potential $84 million deal to acquire Boeing GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs (SDB-I). The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced on February 18 that the purchase could include up to 400 precision-guided munitions and related equipment. Romania’s air force currently operates nearly 30 F-16A/B fighters, enhancing its strike capabilities with these advanced weapons. Additionally, Bucharest confirmed plans in November 2024 to acquire 32 F-35A stealth fighters, further modernizing its fleet. The deal reflects Romania’s ongoing military modernization and strengthened defense ties with the U.S. Original news
U.S. Losing Leadership in Space-Based Navigation, Expert Warns
Former Pentagon space policy official Marc J. Berkowitz warns that the U.S. has lost its leadership in space-based positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT), affecting both critical infrastructure and military operations. The aging GPS constellation remains vulnerable to jamming and spoofing, posing security risks. Berkowitz stresses the urgent need to deploy GPS IIIF satellites, which feature enhanced encryption and anti-jam capabilities. While the U.S. Space Force’s Resilient-GPS program aims to strengthen navigation with smaller satellites, Berkowitz argues it may not fully counter cyber and electronic warfare threats. The analysis underscores growing concerns over U.S. space security and military readiness. Original news
U.S. Urged to Accelerate Hypersonic Weapons Testing Amid Global Race
Yorktown Institute president Seth Cropsey warns that the U.S. is at a critical juncture in the development of hypersonic and counter-hypersonic weapons. He stresses the need for aggressive testing, as China and Russia rapidly advance their hypersonic capabilities. The U.S. conducted only two long-range hypersonic weapon tests in 2024, reflecting a risk-averse mindset within the Pentagon and defense industry. Cropsey argues that the next three annual defense budgets will be crucial in determining America’s ability to keep pace with global adversaries. The article highlights growing concerns over U.S. military preparedness in an evolving strategic landscape. Original news
Experts Call for Reform in U.S. Arms Sales Process to Reduce Delays
Former Defense Security Cooperation Agency director Charles Hooper and former State Department official Mira Resnick argue that the U.S. arms sales process is outdated and causing unnecessary delays. They highlight issues with the 2012 Tiered Review System, which allows a single Congress member to block sales for non-defense reasons. To streamline the process, they propose a new Arms Transfer and Export Review Series (ATER Series) that would maintain oversight while expediting approvals. The ATER Series would introduce separate protocols for NATO allies and other countries, ensuring faster weapons deliveries. The reform aims to enhance U.S. defense cooperation without sacrificing accountability. […]
Expert Calls for Urgent Modernization of U.S. GPS Satellite System
GPS Innovation Alliance executive director Lisa Dyer warns that the U.S. must urgently modernize its aging and vulnerable GPS satellite constellation. She urges the Department of Defense to launch three next-generation GPS satellites currently in storage and adopt a “launch upon availability” strategy. Dyer stresses the need for immediate action, advocating for launches using available rockets like SpaceX’s Falcon 9 or ULA’s Vulcan. Additionally, she calls on Congress to fund two GPS IIIF satellites per year and upgrade ground stations to support new civil signals. The proposal highlights growing concerns over GPS reliability and national security in an evolving threat […]
U.S. and India Launch INDUS Innovation Partnership for Space Cooperation
The United States and India have announced INDUS Innovation, a new partnership focused on space and emerging technologies as part of their deepening collaboration. The initiative, revealed in a joint statement following a meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump, aims to strengthen cooperation in space, energy, and technology. It builds on the INDUS-X program, which supports defense industry collaboration between the two nations. The partnership includes commitments to civil and commercial space projects, such as an Indian astronaut’s planned mission to the International Space Station. It also reinforces cooperation on the delayed NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar […]
Estonia Reconsiders Second HIMARS Purchase Amid Production Delays
Estonia is reassessing a second order of Lockheed Martin’s HIMARS due to concerns over long production lead times, with a decision expected in the coming months. Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur emphasized the need for discussions with the U.S. to potentially secure earlier production slots. Estonia’s first order of six HIMARS units, worth over $200 million, is already in progress, with deliveries expected soon. Pevkur stressed that Estonia cannot afford to wait for extended delivery timelines amid growing regional security concerns. The review highlights Estonia’s urgency in strengthening its defense capabilities. Original news
AI-Driven Underwater Drones to Strengthen Critical Infrastructure Defense
Advancements in artificial intelligence are transforming the security of underwater infrastructure, especially after incidents like the Nord Stream pipeline sabotage. AI-powered underwater drones are being deployed to enhance surveillance and protection of critical undersea assets. Defense companies such as BAE Systems, Boeing, Anduril, and Northrop Grumman are leading efforts in developing these autonomous systems. The technology aims to improve real-time monitoring and threat detection in vulnerable maritime regions. As AI integration advances, underwater drones are expected to play a crucial role in securing global energy and communication networks. Original news
Taiwan Seeks Multi-Billion Dollar U.S. Arms Deal Amid Rising China Tensions
Taiwan is in talks to purchase billions of dollars in U.S. weapons, aiming to strengthen ties with the new Trump administration as China escalates military pressure. The proposed package includes coastal defense cruise missiles and HIMARS rocket systems, signaling Taiwan’s commitment to its defense. Sources estimate the deal could range between $7 billion and $10 billion. The arms purchase is expected to reinforce Taiwan’s deterrence capabilities amid growing regional tensions. If approved, the deal would further deepen U.S.-Taiwan military cooperation. Original news