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
UK Labour MPs Urge Banks to Invest in Defense Amid Rising Military Spending
Over 100 Labour MPs and peers have signed a letter urging banks, fund managers, and pension funds to stop avoiding defense investments due to ethical concerns. Led by MP Alex Baker, the letter calls for removing anti-defense investment restrictions, arguing they hinder support for national security. Currently, 99% of investors in the National Employment Savings Trust hold indices that include defense stocks such as Lockheed Martin, BAE Systems, and Rolls-Royce. The pressure follows Britain’s decision to increase defense spending and provide more support to Ukraine, amid the U.S. scaling back aid under President Trump. The move highlights growing political efforts […]
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
China Expands Ban on U.S. Defense Firms Amid Rising Tensions
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
Latvian President Urges European Nations to Reinstate Conscription Amid Russian Threat
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs has called for European countries to introduce conscription, warning of the growing threat from Russia. Speaking on Sunday, he emphasized that Latvia reinstated compulsory military service in January 2023 due to its proximity to Russia and urged other nations to follow suit. Rinkēvičs also confirmed that Latvia is debating whether to extend conscription to women, reflecting broader discussions on military readiness. While acknowledging public concerns, he stressed that reassurance must be backed by concrete defense actions from Latvia and other European governments. His remarks highlight Europe’s increasing focus on military preparedness amid uncertainty over the war […]
UK Defense Firms Prepare to Expand Production Amid Rising Military Demand
British defense manufacturers, including BAE Systems, Babcock, Leonardo UK, and Chemring, are preparing to ramp up production as European nations seek greater defense independence. The surge in demand follows Russia’s war in Ukraine and shifting U.S. policies, prompting 24-hour production lines, weekend shifts, and new manufacturing investments. BAE Systems CEO Charles Woodburn confirmed that the company has been scaling up in recent years but emphasized the need for clear government direction. The UK government has pledged to raise defense spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2027 and 3% in the next Parliament. Defense firms are now awaiting procurement details, with […]
Australian Army Expands Use of Estonian-Croatian Startup Vegvisir Mixed Reality Tech for Battlefield Awareness
The Australian Army has placed a follow-up order with Vegvisir to further integrate its Mixed Reality-based situational awareness technology into armored vehicles. Vegvisir CEO Ingvar Pärnamäe expressed enthusiasm, citing overwhelmingly positive feedback from initial trials. The XR-Based Situational Awareness Systems have been successfully tested on modified M113 Armored Personnel Carriers, enhancing battlefield visibility and decision-making. The technology provides 360-degree real-time awareness, allowing crews to operate effectively in complex environments. The expanded order reflects Australia’s commitment to leveraging advanced digital tools for military modernization. Original news
Sweden Deploys Gripen Jets to Poland for First NATO Air-Defense Mission
Sweden will send Saab Gripen combat aircraft to Poland, marking its first overseas air-defense deployment in support of NATO operations. Defense Minister Pål Jonson announced on March 6 that the Swedish Air Force will deploy up to eight Gripens for two NATO air-defense missions, including protection for Security Assistance and Training for Ukraine. This mission represents the first time Swedish combat aircraft will participate in NATO Air Policing from allied territory, with operations set for April to June 2025. In addition to the Gripens, Sweden will also contribute Saab 340/ASC 890 Erieye early warning aircraft, S 102B Korpen intelligence-gathering planes, […]
Denmark to Replace Harpoon Missiles With Kongsberg Naval Strike Missiles
Denmark has announced the purchase of Kongsberg’s Naval Strike Missile (NSM) to replace the U.S.-made Boeing Harpoon anti-ship missile on its Iver Huitfeldt-class frigates. The deal marks the first in a series of rapid acquisitions aimed at rebuilding Denmark’s defense capabilities. The NSM system, known for its stealth and advanced targeting, will enhance Denmark’s naval strike power. The move reflects Denmark’s broader efforts to modernize its military amid rising security concerns. The acquisition strengthens Denmark’s ties with Norway’s Kongsberg and aligns with NATO’s push for regional defense improvements. Original news
France Pledges to Continue Intelligence Sharing With Ukraine as U.S. Halts Support
France has confirmed it will continue sharing military intelligence with Ukraine, despite the U.S. decision to freeze intelligence support. French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu announced on Thursday that France remains committed to providing Kyiv with critical battlefield information. Speaking on France Inter radio, Lecornu emphasized that French intelligence is sovereign and will continue benefiting Ukraine. The move highlights France’s independent stance as the U.S. scales back its involvement. The decision reinforces Paris’ support for Ukraine amid shifting Western policies toward the war. Original news
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
UK Strikes £30M Deal With Anduril to Supply Advanced Attack Drones to Ukraine
Britain has reached a £30 million ($38.68 million) agreement with Anduril UK to supply advanced attack drones to Ukraine. The British government announced the deal on Thursday, stating that these drones will enhance Ukraine’s defense in the Black Sea. According to the UK Ministry of Defence, the drones are designed to monitor areas and autonomously strike targets upon detection. The contract underscores Britain’s continued military support for Ukraine amid ongoing Russian aggression. The deal also strengthens Anduril’s role in next-generation autonomous warfare systems. Original news
Leonardo and Baykar Form Joint Venture to Tap $100B European Drone Market
Italy’s Leonardo and Turkey’s Baykar have announced a joint venture to develop unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), targeting the $100 billion European drone market over the next decade. The JV will be based in Italy, utilizing both companies’ existing facilities, with discussions already underway with their national military forces. The first drone, expected in 18 months, will be based on Baykar’s high-altitude, heavy-lift Akinci and customized for customer needs. Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani confirmed the venture will not compete with Europe’s MALE drone program, developed with Airbus and Dassault Aviation. The deal underscores Europe’s expanding UAV market and deepening defense cooperation […]
Eutelsat Stock Surges 500% Amid EU Defense Spending Boom
Eutelsat’s stock has skyrocketed over 500% this week, adding more than $3 billion in market capitalization due to heightened expectations for EU defense initiatives. The surge was influenced by geopolitical tensions following a disagreement between Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and former President Trump regarding military aid, alongside the EU’s proposal to invest €800 billion ($861 billion) in defense programs. A spokesperson for Eutelsat stated that the company is “actively collaborating with European institutions” to enhance satellite communication capabilities, particularly in light of uncertainties surrounding Starlink’s support for Ukraine. Original news