Taurus Systems, a joint venture between MBDA Germany and Saab, has awarded Saab a 10-year, $159 million (1.7 billion crown) contract for the modernization and maintenance of Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missiles. The contract follows an order from Germany’s defense procurement office, reinforcing Germany’s commitment to upgrading its long-range strike capabilities. The Taurus KEPD 350, known for its precision deep-strike capability, is used by Germany, Spain, and South Korea. The deal strengthens Saab’s role in European missile technology development. The modernization program aims to enhance the missile’s operational lifespan and effectiveness in future conflicts. 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
Czech Crowdfunding Campaign Raises £2.3M to Buy Black Hawk for Ukraine
The Czech campaign “Darek Pro Putina” (Gift for Putin) has raised over £2.3 million from 20,500 donors to purchase a UH-60A+ Black Hawk helicopter for Ukraine’s Main Directorate of Intelligence. The aircraft is expected to be delivered this month, marking a unique civilian-led military aid effort. The campaign highlights how European civilians are stepping in to provide advanced military equipment, traditionally supplied by national governments. The Mail described the initiative as “a remarkable example of civilian support” in Ukraine’s fight against Russia. The effort showcases growing grassroots engagement in European military assistance to Ukraine. 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 […]
Romania Approves Law Allowing Military to Shoot Down Unauthorized Drones
Romanian lawmakers have passed a bill allowing the military to shoot down unauthorized drones over its airspace following Russian drone incursions. Interim President Ilie Bolojan is expected to sign the law, granting forces the authority to destroy, neutralize, or take control of drones violating Romanian territory. As a NATO member, Romania has scrambled F-18 and F-16 fighter jets in response to Russian drone activity near its borders. Interim Senate President Mircea Abrudean stressed that “Romania’s safety is non-negotiable”, highlighting the country’s commitment to national security. Additionally, a separate law was passed to strengthen Romania’s military cooperation with NATO during peacetime. […]
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 […]
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
Safran secures navigation systems deal with Finnish Army
Safran Electronics & Defense has signed a contract to supply its Geonyx Inertial Navigation System (INS) to the Finnish Defence Forces for artillery systems from 2024 to 2031. The Geonyx INS, featuring HRG Crystal technology, ensures precise navigation and targeting, even in GPS-denied environments. The system enhances operational accuracy by detecting GPS signal threats and disabling GPS hybridization when necessary. The deal aligns with Finland’s growing defense investments, with military spending projected to reach $4.8 billion by 2028, according to a GlobalData report. The agreement strengthens Finland’s artillery capabilities amid increasing regional security concerns. Original news
New Satellite Constellation Startups Decline as Space Market Matures
The number of new satellite constellation companies has dropped sharply, with only seven founded in 2024 compared to 50 in 2015. The decline reflects a maturing space market, where established players dominate, making it harder for newcomers to compete. While the space economy continues to grow, transitioning from prototypes to full-scale deployment remains a challenge due to funding and execution difficulties. Experts point to emerging technologies and reusable rockets as potential drivers of future growth and innovation. The trend signals a shift toward consolidation and specialization in the commercial space industry. Original news
Russia’s Invasion Spurs Global Demand for Earth Observation Technology
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has increased global interest in Earth observation (EO) technology, driving nations to develop their own satellite capabilities. Maxar Intelligence’s chief product officer Peter Wilczynski emphasized the crucial role of commercial space assets in providing battlefield imagery. Planet Labs CEO Will Marshall highlighted the importance of EO satellites for intelligence gathering and strategic decision-making. Recent deals, such as Maxar’s $14 million contract with the Dutch Ministry of Defense and Planet’s $230 million agreement with Sky Perfect JSAT, reflect this growing demand. The trend underscores nations’ desire for independent access to satellite intelligence amid rising geopolitical tensions. Original […]
Airbus and Naval Group Secure €480M Deal to Upgrade French Navy Communications
Airbus Defence and Space, in partnership with Naval Group, has won a €480 million ($504 million) contract to modernize the French Navy’s communications systems. The deal will equip over 80 vessels, including the aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, with the RIFAN 3 network between 2028 and 2032. This upgrade will enhance connectivity and security, enabling collaborative naval combat operations. Eric Even of Airbus emphasized the importance of preparing for future naval warfare through advanced digital networks. The 10-year contract covers both development and operational maintenance, strengthening France’s naval defense capabilities. Original news