Dassault Aviation is exploring the possibility of establishing a final assembly line in India for its next-generation F5 Rafale aircraft. The discussions come as India negotiates a deal for 26 Rafale-M fighters for the Indian Navy. Dassault CEO Eric Trappier expressed confidence in India’s long-term interest in the Rafale, citing potential future orders from the Indian Army. India previously purchased 36 Rafale jets for €7.9 billion ($8.7 billion) in 2016, strengthening its air combat capabilities. The move signals France’s deepening defense partnership with India and aligns with New Delhi’s push for domestic defense manufacturing. Original news
South Korean Defense Firms Invest in AI for Future Air Combat Systems
Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) and Hanwha Asset Management are investing in artificial intelligence firms to enhance autonomous military technologies. KAI has invested $4.1 million in GenGenAI, securing a 9.87% stake to advance AI pilot technology for future air combat systems. Hanwha joined L3Harris in a $240 million funding round for Shield AI, a company specializing in autonomous systems for contested environments. Shield AI President Brandon Tseng highlighted the success of their Hivemind Enterprise technology, which has enabled autonomous flight for F-16s, MQ-20s, and V-BAT drones. These partnerships demonstrate South Korea’s commitment to integrating AI into next-generation military aircraft and autonomous […]
Europe Expands Defense Ties With Turkey Amid Growing Military Cooperation
European nations are increasingly recognizing Turkey’s defense industry, as seen in Italy’s Leonardo partnering with Baykar and Spain considering Turkish Aerospace Industries’ Hurjet jet trainers. Baykar is ramping up production of its Akinci UAS, with a new version featuring Leonardo equipment that could attract European buyers. The joint venture between Leonardo and Baykar highlights deepening industrial cooperation between Turkey and Europe. These developments signal Europe’s growing interest in Turkish military technology, particularly in unmanned systems and advanced aircraft. The shift reflects Turkey’s strengthening role in Europe’s defense industry and export market. Original news
Embraer Offers KC-390 to Poland, Considers Local Assembly Line
Embraer is proposing its KC-390 tactical transport and tanker for the Polish Air Force, while also exploring Poland as a potential European assembly hub. The Brazilian aerospace company sees Poland as a key strategic partner, with plans that could generate $1 billion in value and 600 jobs. Embraer Defense & Security CCO Frederico Lemos emphasized that Poland is “more than a customer, but a long-term operational and industrial partner.” Poland currently operates four Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules transports and has a growing need for additional transport and refueling capabilities. The proposal aligns with Poland’s push to expand its defense industry […]
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 […]
Latvia Awards Origin Robotics Contract for High-Speed Interceptor Drone
The Latvian Ministry of Defence has awarded Origin Robotics a research and development contract to create a high-speed interceptor drone for countering aerial threats. The contract follows a co-financing model, with the Latvian MoD funding 65% and Origin Robotics covering 35% of development costs. The autonomous drone will be designed to neutralize loitering munitions and hostile UAVs, strengthening Latvia’s air defense capabilities. Origin Robotics CEO Agris Kipurs highlighted the growing need for effective countermeasures in modern warfare. The contract underscores Latvia’s commitment to advancing drone defense technology amid rising security threats. Original news
Italy Proposes €200 Billion Defense Investment Plan to EU Partners
Italy plans to introduce a guarantee scheme that could unlock up to €200 billion ($216.48 billion) in defense and aerospace investments. Economy Minister Giancarlo Giorgetti will present the proposal at a March 10 EU finance ministers meeting in Brussels. The European Security and Industrial Innovation Initiative aims to leverage €17 billion in EU guarantees to stimulate investments over five years. The plan is designed to strengthen Europe’s defense industry while minimizing the financial impact on Italy’s public finances. If approved, the initiative would significantly boost European defense capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions. Original news
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
Dassault Aviation Reports Growth in Falcon Jet Orders and Sales
Dassault Aviation has reported increased demand for its Falcon aircraft, according to its 2024 financial report. The company recorded 26 Falcon orders in 2024, up from 23 in 2023, reflecting steady sales growth. As of December 31, 2024, Dassault maintained a backlog of 79 Falcon jets, indicating strong future deliveries. The increase highlights continued interest in Dassault’s high-performance business jets despite market fluctuations. The company’s growing order book reinforces its position in the global business aviation sector. Original news
Turkey’s Aselsan Successfully Tests GÖKBERK Laser Weapon Against Drones
Turkish defense company Aselsan has successfully tested its GÖKBERK mobile laser weapon system, designed to counter first-person-view (FPV) drones. The system autonomously tracked and destroyed drone threats, demonstrating its effectiveness for Türkiye’s Steel Dome national air defense system. Aselsan CEO Ahmet Akyol highlighted the system’s potential for both Turkey and allied nations, reinforcing its export prospects. The GÖKBERK laser is part of Turkey’s broader push to strengthen regional air defense capabilities. The Steel Dome project aims to enhance Türkiye’s defenses against evolving aerial threats. Original news
Denmark Selects Kongsberg Naval Strike Missile for Frigate Upgrade
The Royal Danish Navy has selected Kongsberg’s Naval Strike Missile (NSM) to equip its three Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates, replacing the previously donated Boeing Harpoon missiles. The $193.3 million (NOK2.1 billion) contract, awarded to Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, was announced on March 6. The deal includes training, logistical support, and maintenance services, ensuring a smooth transition to the new missile system. Missile deliveries are scheduled to begin in 2025 and continue through 2030. The acquisition strengthens Denmark’s naval strike capabilities amid rising security concerns in the Baltic region. Original news
Space Industry Braces for Surge in Mergers and Acquisitions in 2025
Merger and acquisition (M&A) activity in the space sector is expected to increase significantly in 2025, following delays in 2024 deal closures. Tyler Letarte of AE Industrial Partners cited delayed government contracts and high interest rates as key factors behind the backlog of pending deals. Hoyt Davidson of Near Earth noted that anticipated U.S. defense spending and commercial space sector growth are fueling renewed acquisition interest. Despite uncertainties in defense budgets, Chris Quilty of Quilty Space expects M&A activity to rise, particularly as regulatory changes unfold following the departure of FTC Chair Lina Khan. The anticipated boom could make 2025 […]
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 […]