OpenAI has introduced ChatGPT Gov, a specialized AI tool designed for U.S. government agencies, the company announced on Tuesday. This version allows agencies to integrate OpenAI’s language models with their own security protocols to handle sensitive data. OpenAI highlights that ChatGPT Gov can support public sector initiatives in areas such as public health and national security. Agencies like the Air Force Research Laboratory and Los Alamos National Laboratory are already using ChatGPT services for administrative and scientific research tasks. The launch marks OpenAI’s expansion into secure, government-focused AI applications. Original news
North Macedonia to receive US donation of Raven and Puma UASs
The United States will donate unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) to the Army of the Republic of North Macedonia, the country’s Ministry of Defence confirmed on January 24. The donation, including AeroVironment Raven and Puma drones, is part of six military agreements between the two nations worth $26.5 million. These agreements also include small-arms replacements, cyber-defense enhancements, and tactical simulation software for North Macedonia’s Light Infantry Battalion Group. Production of the drones will begin once the agreements are finalized, with deliveries expected in the coming years. This move reinforces military cooperation between the U.S. and North Macedonia, boosting the latter’s defense […]
Poland buys over 200 US AGM-88G missiles for $745 mln
Poland has signed a $745 million contract with the United States to purchase over 200 AGM-88G advanced anti-radiation missiles, the Polish defense ministry announced on Tuesday. The missiles, designed for F-35 fighter jets, will be delivered between 2029 and 2035, aligning with Poland’s scheduled acquisition of the jets in 2026. Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized the investment in modern equipment, stating that the AGM-88G AARGM-ER missiles will significantly enhance Poland’s air force and operational capabilities. “Today’s agreement marks a huge progress in the field of operational capabilities of our army,” he said. The purchase is part of Poland’s ongoing military […]
Denmark boosts Arctic defence spending by $2.1 billion, responding to US pressure
Denmark has announced a $2.05 billion increase in Arctic military spending, reflecting heightened geopolitical interest in the region. The move follows renewed attention from the U.S., including former President Donald Trump’s interest in controlling Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory. The U.S. maintains a permanent presence at the Pituffik Space Base in northwestern Greenland, a key site for its ballistic missile early-warning system. Greenland’s strategic location along the shortest route between Europe and North America underscores its defense importance. This investment demonstrates Denmark’s commitment to bolstering Arctic security amid growing international competition.Original news
Baykar Signs Preliminary Contract for Piaggio Purchase
Baykar Technologies has signed a preliminary agreement to acquire Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace, marking a significant step toward completing the asset transfer. The company was selected as the preferred bidder by Italy’s Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy on December 27, 2024. Piaggio Aerospace, encompassing Piaggio Aero Industries and Piaggio Aviation, has been under extraordinary administration since 2018. The acquisition, expected to close in spring 2025, is contingent on meeting several conditions, including approval from Italy’s Council of Ministers under the ‘Golden Power’ law. This move highlights Baykar’s strategic expansion into aviation manufacturing on an international scale. Original news
Space Companies Shift Focus To Defence
Space companies are increasingly pivoting toward national security in response to growing defense opportunities. Redwire announced plans to acquire Edge Autonomy to bolster its national security capabilities, while Voyager Space rebranded as Voyager Technologies, Inc., to emphasize its defense focus. The U.S. military’s priorities, including competition with China and Russia and the establishment of the U.S. Space Force, are driving this strategic shift. In 2024, government space budgets grew by 10%, with $73 billion invested in defense, accounting for 54% of global government space spending. This trend reflects the growing alignment between the commercial space sector and national security priorities. […]
Kongsberg’s Joint Strike Missile USAF contract expanded to $208 million
Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KOG.OL) has secured a nearly $70 million contract modification from the US State Department for Joint Strike Missile (JSM) production Lot One. Designed for the internal weapon bays of the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, the JSM is an advanced cruise missile variant of the Naval Strike Missile. The modification finalizes components of the $141 million initial contract with the USAF, including all-up rounds with containers and test hardware, with completion expected by September 30, 2027. The project involves collaboration with Raytheon (RTX) and production in Kongsberg, Norway. To meet growing demand in the US, Kongsberg is […]
Ohio approves tax incentive valued at up to $450M for Anduril Industries
Anduril Industries Inc. is spearheading a transformative project in northern Pickaway County, Ohio, aiming to create 4,008 full-time jobs by 2035. Supported by a 30-year, 2.594% Job Creation Tax Credit from the Ohio Tax Credit Authority, the initiative represents a $2 billion potential economic impact. The planned 500-acre manufacturing complex, expandable to 5 million square feet, will generate an estimated $530.3 million in annual payroll. The development aligns with long-term economic growth and workforce expansion in the region. This project underscores Ohio’s commitment to fostering large-scale innovation and investment. Original news
KNDS, Rheinmetall, Thales move ahead on next-generation tank project
KNDS, Rheinmetall (RHM.DE), and Thales (HO.PA) have signed a shareholder agreement to create a joint company for developing the Main Ground Combat System (MGCS), a next-generation main battle tank for Germany and France. Each partner will hold a 25% stake in the new company. The MGCS is designed to replace the Leopard 2 and Leclerc tanks, with a planned introduction by 2040, although France is pushing for deployment by 2035. KNDS France CEO Nicolas Chamussy highlighted the collaboration as a combination of French and German expertise in battle tank technology. The project aims to counter evolving battlefield threats, such as […]
Leonardo, drone maker Baykar seek ‘synergies’ on battlefield sensors
Italy’s Leonardo (DRS) and Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar are exploring a potential partnership to integrate Leonardo’s electronics and radar systems onto Baykar’s drones. The collaboration discussions follow Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani’s visit to Baykar’s Turkish facility, where he evaluated the Bayraktar TB2 and other drone platforms. A Leonardo spokesperson emphasized the interest in creating synergies between the two companies, combining Baykar’s drone expertise with Leonardo’s advanced airborne electronics and sensors. The partnership could include integrating technologies like Leonardo’s Gabbiano radar to enhance the capabilities of Baykar’s UAVs. This potential collaboration underscores growing international interest in advancing drone technologies through strategic […]
Ukraine’s Delta battlespace management system may be used in NATO joint planning
NATO is evaluating Ukraine’s Delta battlespace management system for potential use in joint military operations. US Navy Lieutenant Commander Danielle Moser stated on January 17 that while Delta has not yet been adopted, it shows promise due to its alignment with NATO standards. The system has been tested in NATO’s Coalition Warrior Interoperability Exercise (CWIX), with Ukraine actively participating for five years to refine its interoperability. Lieutenant Colonel Elizabeth Boiko highlighted Delta’s ability to transmit operational data using NATO Vector Graphics and Multilateral Interoperability Programme formats, essential for seamless communication between command-and-control systems. This development underscores Delta’s potential to enhance […]
Lithuania and Estonia pledge to meet Donald Trump’s 5% target on defence spending
Lithuania and Estonia have pledged to raise their defense spending to at least 5% of GDP in response to pressure from US President Donald Trump. Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys stated the country plans to fund the increase through borrowing and European financial instruments, while Estonian Prime Minister Kristen Michal noted potential public sector cuts. Romania is also considering a defense spending increase and has already invested €6 billion in acquiring 32 F-35 fighter jets. These commitments reflect the growing influence of US demands on NATO allies to enhance their defense budgets. The moves highlight the Baltic region’s emphasis on […]
Cyprus Can Now Buy U.S. Arms
The Biden administration has authorized Cyprus to purchase American military equipment, signaling a significant shift in its defense strategy. This decision allows Cyprus to modernize its National Guard, although specific armament purchases remain uncertain, according to senior fellow George Tzogopoulos. The US arms embargo imposed on Cyprus in 1987 had previously driven the country to procure military supplies from Russia and France. Recently, Cyprus has sought to diversify its defense sources and align more closely with Western and NATO-compatible weaponry. This move underscores Cyprus’s growing strategic ties with the United States and its shift toward modernized defense systems. Original news
US arms exports hit record in 2024 on Ukraine-related demand
US military equipment sales to foreign governments reached a record $318.7 billion in 2024, marking a 29% increase, according to the State Department. This surge is driven by countries replenishing stockpiles sent to Ukraine and preparing for potential conflicts, significantly benefiting US defense contractors like Lockheed Martin. The Biden administration expects continued growth in weapons sales, further boosting the shares of defense manufacturers amid global instability. Notable deals in 2024 included $23 billion in F-16 jets and upgrades for Turkey, $18.8 billion in F-15 fighter jets for Israel, and $2.5 billion in M1A2 Abrams tanks for Romania. These figures underscore […]
German Patriot units in Poland will be operational by Monday
Two German Patriot air defense units in southeastern Poland will be fully operational by Monday, according to German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius. These units are deployed to protect Jasionka, a vital hub for military and humanitarian supplies to Ukraine, and will remain near the Polish-Ukrainian border for six months. Polish Defence Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted Jasionka’s critical role, with over 90% of aid to Ukraine passing through it. Germany will also send Eurofighter jets to Poland this summer for air policing, further strengthening regional defense. This deployment complements Norway’s December stationing of F-35 fighter jets and NASAMS air defense systems […]