The Korea AeroSpace Administration (KASA) plans to invest 806.4 billion won ($562.5 million) in research and development projects in 2024, representing a 43.3% increase in R&D spending. Established in May, KASA aims to position South Korea among the top five nations in aerospace technology. Key investments include 187.4 billion won ($130.5 million) for research at national aerospace institutes, 150.8 billion won ($105 million) for a new rocket, and 45 billion won ($31.3 million) for lunar spacecraft development. KASA is also collaborating with NASA on the Lunar Space Environment Monitor for a 2025 mission, with 7.3 billion won ($5.1 million) allocated […]
Rolls-Royce Gets $11.1 Billion Contract to Supply Nuclear Reactors for U.K. Submarines
Rolls-Royce Submarines Ltd has secured a £9 billion ($11.12 billion) contract from the UK Ministry of Defence to design, build, and support nuclear reactors for the Royal Navy’s next-generation submarines. The eight-year Unity contract will create over 1,000 jobs, primarily at Rolls-Royce’s manufacturing facility in Derby. By consolidating multiple projects into a single portfolio, the deal is expected to save £400 million through improved efficiency. UK Defense Secretary John Healey reaffirmed the government’s commitment to increased defense spending, citing the need to address rising global threats. This contract highlights the UK’s strategic focus on strengthening its naval capabilities and defense […]
NASA Issued Study Contracts to Examine Logistical Issues for a Long-Term Human Presence on the Moon
NASA has awarded $24 million in contracts to nine companies to study logistics for future human missions to the moon. These studies, part of the NextSTEP-2 program, aim to address gaps in NASA’s Moon to Mars Architecture, focusing on logistics carriers, surface cargo mobility, and trash management. Deputy Associate Administrator Nujoud Merancy emphasized the importance of these contracts for developing critical capabilities for the Artemis missions and supporting long-term lunar exploration. The studies are expected to conclude in about a year, offering solutions for the everyday needs of astronauts on the lunar surface. This initiative proceeds amid speculation about potential […]
Space venture firm predicts industry shakeup
Space Capital predicts that Boeing (BA) and Airbus (AIR.PA) will divest their space divisions in 2025, according to its investment trends report released on January 23. These divestitures are expected to reshape the competitive landscape, creating new opportunities and risks within the space economy. The report highlights 2025 as a transformative year for the space industry, bolstered by the Trump administration’s pro-growth policies and Elon Musk’s influential role. Increasing global defense spending, driven by concerns over China’s expanding space capabilities, is identified as a major factor shaping the industry’s future. Space Capital emphasizes that these changes will redefine industry dynamics […]
Finland Joins the Artemis Accords to Expand Space Strategy
Finland became the 53rd nation to sign the Artemis Accords, marking its commitment to international space cooperation and becoming the first nation to join under Trump’s second term. This move reflects Finland’s strategic focus on space as a defense priority, particularly as climate change drives increased activity in the polar region. In December, Finland adopted a new space strategy aimed at boosting commercial space capabilities in defense, telecommunications, and climate monitoring, with expectations of significant financial benefits. Wille Rydman, Finland’s minister of economic affairs, highlighted the growing importance of space activities for security and defense policy. He emphasized that space […]
NATO Strengthens Baltic Defense Amid Undersea Cable Sabotage
NATO has initiated Operation Baltic Sentry to address suspected Russian sabotage of underwater cables in the Baltic Sea. An international flotilla, supported by elite divers, submersible drones, and advanced aircraft such as F-35 fighter jets, has assembled near Tallinn, Estonia, to protect critical gas pipelines and internet cables. The UK has deployed P-8 Poseidon submarine-hunting aircraft and Rivet Joint spy planes, following the Royal Navy’s tracking of the Russian spy ship Yantar. Finnish authorities have accused the Eagle S tanker of damaging cables, adding to growing tensions in the region. NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte warned of consequences for any threats […]
Norway And France Enhance Defense Cooperation
Norwegian and French defense ministers agreed to enhance defense cooperation, with a focus on maritime surveillance, during a meeting on January 16. The collaboration was formalized through a letter of intent signed by French Defense Minister Sébastien Lecornu and Norwegian Defense Minister Bjørn Arild Gram to address hybrid threats and improve situational awareness in the high north. Norway plans to invite the US, UK, France, and Germany to discuss partnerships for acquiring new frigates to replace its aging fleet. The US Navy is collaborating with Fincantieri Marinette Marine on the Constellation-class frigate, based on the French and Italian FREMM frigate […]
Cyber Defense Experts Share Warnings at Hearing
U.S. congressional hearing on cybersecurity addressed the need to strengthen U.S. defenses against foreign cyber threats. Committee chair Rep. Mark Green (R-TN) expressed concern over vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure, calling for immediate action. Retired Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery described recent Chinese cyber incursions as “war-making actions” and proposed countermeasures such as disabling foreign cyber capabilities and increasing public-private cybersecurity investments. Adam Meyers of CrowdStrike reported a 150% rise in cyber intrusions over the past year, underscoring the urgency of raising the cost of cyberattacks for adversaries. The hearing highlighted bipartisan support for improving cybersecurity to protect national security and critical […]
US Urged To Build Strategic Supercomputer For Defense
Aaron Ginn, CEO of Hydra Host and co-founder of the Foundation for American Innovation, advocates for U.S. investment in a state-of-the-art supercomputer to strengthen military and industrial capabilities. He emphasizes that such a system would deter adversaries by providing superior computing power, enhancing national security, and supporting civilian applications. Ginn underscores the urgency of this investment as China advances its computing power and Taiwan faces growing threats. The proposed supercomputer would also boost American manufacturing and job creation, aligning with national semiconductor goals and the defense priorities of the new Trump administration. He notes that the cost of the supercomputer […]
Six HIMARS rocket launchers to arrive in Estonia by mid-2025
Lockheed Martin has delivered six M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) to Estonia, as announced by the Estonia Centre for Defence Investments (EDCI). These systems are expected to arrive in the coming months for immediate deployment by the Estonian Defence Forces. Major Tanel Tatsi highlighted the transformative impact of HIMARS, stating that they provide long-range precision strike capabilities to enhance Estonia’s defense. The delivery is part of a $200 million agreement signed in 2022, which represents one of Estonia’s largest defense investments. The project also includes ammunition, training, logistics, and communication solutions to support the new systems. Original news
First Polish F-35s depart Lockheed factory for pilot training work in Arkansas
Poland’s first two Lockheed Martin F-35As have departed Fort Worth, Texas, to begin pilot training at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas. This milestone marks Poland’s progress toward fielding a modern fighter force, with plans to operate 32 F-35As by 2030. Brigadier General Chad Bridges emphasized the significance of this event for Arkansas, the U.S., and its allies. The Ebbing base is expanding its capacity for F-35 Foreign Military Sales pilot training, complementing the current program at Hill Air Force Base in Utah. This development underscores the strengthening of Poland’s defense capabilities and its collaboration with the U.S. in […]
Sweden relieves Danish contingent of NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia
On January 18, a Swedish battalion arrived in Riga, Latvia, to replace Denmark’s contingent in the NATO Multinational Brigade Latvia. This marks Sweden’s largest deployment since joining NATO on March 7, 2024, according to the Swedish Armed Forces. The battalion, from the South Skåne Regiment’s 71st Battalion, includes soldiers, CV9040 infantry fighting vehicles, and Patria 8×8 XA-360 Armoured Modular Vehicles. The convoy was escorted by Swedish and Latvian military forces, showcasing strong bilateral cooperation. This deployment underscores Sweden’s commitment to NATO’s collective defense in the Baltic region. Original news
India gets an observer seat in the Eurodrone program
India has gained observer status in the Eurodrone program, a collaborative effort involving Italy, France, Germany, and Spain under OCCAR’s management. The program focuses on developing a Medium Altitude Long Endurance (MALE) drone for ISTAR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance) missions. Key contributors include Airbus, Dassault Aviation, and Leonardo, with components like the mission computer and radar reviewed during an October visit to Leonardo’s facilities in Italy. The Eurodrone, led by Airbus, will feature a 2.3-ton payload, 40-hour autonomy, and the ability to operate in non-segregated airspace. This marks a significant step for India in advancing its collaboration with […]
Outgoing Assistant Secretary of the US Army for Acquisition Emphasizes Steady Munitions Demand
Outgoing Assistant Secretary of the Army for Acquisition, Logistics, and Technology Doug Bush emphasized the sustained demand for munitions, independent of the Ukraine conflict. The Army is on track to produce 55,000 155mm rounds per month by the end of January, aiming for 100,000 rounds monthly by the second quarter of fiscal year 2026. Bush noted bipartisan support for munitions deployment decisions, with ongoing demand from allies in Europe and the Pacific. The Army has committed $18 billion to a 15-year organic industrial base modernization initiative, bolstered by supplemental Congressional funding. This effort underscores the strategic importance of munitions production […]
France Transitions To MQ-9 Reaper Block 5 ER UAS
France has retired its MQ-9 Reaper Block 1 unmanned aircraft system (UAS) after 11 years of service at Cognac-Chateaubernard Air Base. The French Air and Space Force is transitioning to the more advanced MQ-9 Reaper Block 5 Extended-Range (ER) UAS. The Block 5 ER features a 30-hour endurance, increased range, and the ability to carry precision-guided bombs and missiles. France is replacing its six Block 1 UAVs with a fleet of 12 Block 5 ER UAVs, with the first units delivered in 2020. This upgrade significantly enhances France’s intelligence, surveillance, and strike capabilities. Original news