Ukraine has declared that its military size and readiness are non-negotiable in any ceasefire agreement with Russia. The statement comes in response to Russian President Putin’s demands for limiting Ukraine’s army and abandoning NATO ambitions. Moscow also insists on full control over four Ukrainian regions it claims. Ukrainian official Pavlo Palisa firmly rejected these terms, stating that no external power, especially Russia, will dictate Ukraine’s defense structure. The stance underscores Kyiv’s commitment to sovereignty amid ongoing negotiations. Original news
Dassault Eyes Canada and Portugal for Rafale Sales Amid F-35 Concerns
French aircraft maker Dassault is targeting Canada and Portugal as potential buyers for its Rafale fighter jet, amid rising doubts about U.S. reliability with the F-35 program. Canada is currently planning a $19 billion F-35 acquisition but is also considering alternatives like the Rafale, Gripen, and Eurofighter Typhoon. The Swedish Gripen is viewed favorably for its Arctic suitability. Retired Lt. Gen. Yvan Blondin advocates for a mixed fleet, warning against sole reliance on U.S.-supplied aircraft. He argues that basing Canada’s future air power solely on the F-35 would be a risky bet on shifting U.S. policy. Original news
Philippines Warns U.S. Tariffs Could Undermine $5.58 Billion F-16 Deal
The Philippine ambassador to Washington has cautioned that new U.S. tariffs could jeopardize Manila’s ability to purchase American weapons systems, including a $5.58 billion deal for F-16 fighter jets. The concern follows President Trump’s implementation of nearly 20 percent tariffs on Philippine exports. Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez emphasized that the economic strain from tariffs could impact defense acquisitions from the U.S. The F-16 purchase, long in discussion, is seen as a key element of the Philippines’ military modernization. The warning highlights tensions between trade policy and defense cooperation among allies. Original news
India Approves $7 Billion Deal for French Rafale Marine Fighter Jets
India has approved a major defense deal to purchase 26 Rafale marine fighter aircraft from France, valued at over 630 billion rupees ($7 billion). The news, reported by ANI and cited by Reuters, comes amid India’s continued efforts to modernize its military capabilities. The Indian defense ministry has not yet officially commented on the agreement. The deal highlights deepening defense ties between India and France. It also signals India’s focus on enhancing its naval aviation strength. Original news
New Zealand to Double Defense Spending Amid Rising Global Tensions
New Zealand has announced plans to double its defense spending over the next eight years, starting with a $9 billion NZD investment in the first four years. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon cited escalating global tensions and China’s military expansion as key motivators. Defense Minister Judith Collins pointed to a recent Chinese missile launch in the Pacific as a wake-up call. The funding will support upgrades to the Royal New Zealand Navy, bolster surveillance, and improve cybersecurity. The initiative aims to reinforce New Zealand’s role as a reliable member of the Five Eyes intelligence alliance. Original news
European Defence Agency Expands Role with Boosted Budget and Strategic Mandate
European Defence Agency (EDA) is entering its third decade with an expanded mandate and increased funding following a major Long-Term Review endorsed by EU defense ministers. Now overseeing around 200 projects worth €681 million, the EDA plays a key role in joint procurement efforts, including artillery supplies for Ukraine. Recent milestones include four major letters of intent, notably on building a continental air and missile defense system. EDA chief Jiří Šedivý highlighted joint purchasing as a path to savings and strategic autonomy. However, EU defense research investment still trails far behind U.S. and Chinese levels. Original news
France Develops Domestic Rocket Artillery System to Rival HIMARS
France plans to test its new indigenous rocket artillery system by mid-2026 as an alternative to the U.S.-made HIMARS. The project, led by the French Directorate General for Armament, involves defense firms Safran, MBDA, Thales, and ArianeGroup. The system is expected to have a 150-kilometer range and replace the Lance-Roquettes Unitaire by 2027. France has earmarked €600 million for development and aims to acquire at least 13 units by 2030. The move positions France in competition with other European rocket systems, including the U.S.-German GMARS project. Original news
Europe Seeks Alternative to SpaceX Amid Concerns Over Starlink Dependence
European governments are increasingly aware of the need to reduce reliance on Elon Musk’s SpaceX for satellite communications. Alarm was sparked in February when the U.S. threatened to cut Ukraine’s access to Starlink, a critical asset in its defense against Russia. A new white paper now urges the European Commission to fund Ukraine’s satellite needs through domestic providers. European satellite companies have confirmed ongoing discussions with officials to offer backup connectivity. The move signals a push for strategic autonomy in space-based infrastructure. Original news
Czech Republic Considers Discounted Gripen Lease Extension Ahead of F-35 Transition
The Czech Republic is reviewing a new lease extension offer from Sweden for its fleet of Gripen C/D fighter jets. The proposed agreement, running from 2027 to 2035, is intended to bridge the gap until the arrival of F-35s beginning in 2031. The revised deal includes a 25% discount, bringing the cost to 16.65 billion CZK ($732 million). It covers maintenance, pilot training, and continued operation of 12 Gripen aircraft. An additional 3.9 billion CZK may be allocated for potential modernization efforts. Original news
Trump Unveils $1 Trillion Defense Budget Proposal, Aims for Historic Military Investment
President Donald Trump has announced plans for a $1 trillion defense budget, marking an unprecedented milestone for Pentagon funding. Speaking Monday, Trump called it the largest military budget ever proposed by his administration. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth echoed the announcement, emphasizing spending focus on “lethality and readiness.” The proposal will face congressional scrutiny, with analysts predicting a contentious appropriations process. Significant cuts to non-defense programs are expected, setting the stage for political clashes with Democrats. Original news
Lithuanian Shipyard Begins Building Offshore Patrol Vessels for Singapore Navy
Lithuania’s Western Baltic Shipyard has laid down the first two offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) for the Republic of Singapore Navy. The construction marks the beginning of a maritime security project unveiled by Singapore on April 7. Each vessel will feature a flight deck capable of supporting a 12-tonne helicopter. They are also equipped to deploy two interceptor boats and carry up to five 20-foot containerized mission modules. The OPVs are intended to enhance Singapore’s maritime patrol and response capabilities. Original news
Space Force Launches Orbital Watch to Alert Commercial Operators of Space Threats
The U.S. Space Force has introduced a new program called Orbital Watch to share unclassified threat data with over 900 commercial space operators. Managed by Space Systems Command, the initiative is supported by U.S. Space Command, the Intelligence Community, and the Pentagon’s Space Policy office. Orbital Watch aims to provide early warnings about evolving threats in orbit, including cyberattacks, electronic warfare, and hostile satellite behavior. The program enhances collaboration between military and commercial space sectors. Officials say the goal is to help companies build more resilient systems against growing space-based threats. Original news
Belgian PM Announces €1 Billion Aid Package for Ukraine Including Fighter Jets
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever has pledged a new €1 billion aid package to Ukraine for 2025. Speaking alongside President Zelensky in Kyiv, De Wever expressed his ambition to maintain this annual support throughout his term. The package includes military support, with Belgium reaffirming its commitment to deliver promised fighter aircraft. Two F-16s for spare parts will be sent this year, with two operational jets expected next year. Deliveries hinge on the arrival of Belgium’s new F-35s, which are experiencing delays. Original news
Rheinmetall Acquires Nitrocellulose Maker to Boost Ammunition Supply Chain
Rheinmetall has purchased Hagedorn-NC, a German producer of industrial nitrocellulose, to strengthen its supply of artillery propellant. The move is part of a broader European effort to secure ammunition and explosives production amid rising defense demands. The company will convert Hagedorn-NC’s operations to focus on military-grade nitrocellulose in the coming months. Existing civilian customers will still be served temporarily during the transition. Rheinmetall said the acquisition addresses a key strategic gap in its production chain. Original news
U.S. Officials Push for Streamlined Space Regulations Amid Industry Growth
Regulators and officials emphasized the urgent need to modernize U.S. space law to match the pace of innovation in the sector. At the Space Symposium, experts from agencies like the FAA, NOAA, and FCC highlighted the relevance of Article Six of the 1967 Outer Space Treaty. They stressed that current overlapping and fragmented regulations hinder efficient oversight and growth. The U.S. government is being urged to create a more unified legal framework for space activity. Balancing national responsibility with industry flexibility remains a key challenge moving forward. Original news