The U.S. Army has awarded Raytheon a $946 million contract to supply additional Patriot air and missile defense systems to Romania. Announced on December 23, the contract represents Romania’s third order of Patriot systems and is slated for completion by December 31, 2029. The agreement includes fire units equipped with radars, control stations, and missiles, involving collaboration with Romanian defense firms. Raytheon’s senior vice president of Global Patriot, Pete Bata, highlighted that Romania’s investment reflects its dedication to collective security and European stability. This deal reinforces the growing partnership between Romania and the U.S. in advancing regional defense capabilities. Original […]
China adds 28 US entities to export control list
China has added 28 U.S. entities to its export control list, citing the need to “safeguard national security and interests,” according to the commerce ministry. Notable companies listed include Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, Boeing Defense, Space & Security, and Raytheon Missiles & Defense. The restrictions include a ban on the export of dual-use items to these firms, effective immediately. This move underscores escalating tensions between China and the U.S. in the defense and technology sectors. The decision reflects China’s strategic use of trade controls to counter perceived security threats. Original news
U.S. Establishes Hackathon Program and Cyber Threat Tabletop Exercise Program to Enhance Cybersecurity Capabilities
The FY 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, signed by President Biden, establishes a DOD hackathon program and a cyber threat tabletop exercise program to enhance cybersecurity capabilities. The act mandates the development of zero trust guidance for wearable devices and formalizes the Artificial Intelligence Security Center within the NSA’s Cybersecurity Collaboration Center. It addresses a $3.08 billion funding shortfall for the FCC’s rip and replace program to secure telecommunications infrastructure. Additionally, the SHARE IT Act, signed alongside, promotes the sharing of custom-developed code among federal agencies to reduce software development costs. These measures reflect a strategic focus on cybersecurity, technology, […]
Pentagon Report Warns Of Vulnerable US Infrastructure
U.S. Defense Science Board report warns that adversaries like China and Russia have penetrated critical U.S. infrastructure, endangering military operations and national security. The report highlights risks of severe disruptions to military force projection and warns of potential defeat in future conflicts. It calls for urgent action to strengthen infrastructure defenses through enhanced collaboration between military and civilian sectors. Co-chaired by strategic weapons expert Miriam John and former Bechtel Group executive Judith Miller, the task force emphasizes addressing vulnerabilities in electricity, communications, and logistics. The findings underscore the critical need for resilient infrastructure to safeguard U.S. defense capabilities. Original news
Bundeswehr Awards EUR3 Billion Contracts To Rheinmetall And KNDS
The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) have awarded contracts worth EUR3 billion to Rheinmetall and KNDS to integrate advanced digital radio and command-and-control systems. These upgrades, part of the Digitalization of Land-Based Operations (D-LBO) program, will modernize 10,000 vehicles within Germany’s land forces. The six-year, EUR1.98 billion contract is equally shared between Rheinmetall Landsysteme GmbH and KNDS Deutschland GmbH & Co. Deliveries will begin in mid-2025, managed by the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Equipment, Information Technology and In-Service Support, and conclude by 2030. This initiative underscores Germany’s commitment to enhancing operational capabilities through cutting-edge technology. Original news
Ukraine begins licensed assembly of Colt CZ Bren 2 assault rifle
Ukraine’s state-owned Ukroboronprom began assembling the Czech-designed Colt CZ Bren 2 assault rifle as part of a technology transfer agreement initiated on July 16. The announcement on December 13 highlighted the rifle’s integration into Ukraine’s armed forces. Ceska Zbrojovka A S, part of Colt CZ Group, confirmed on December 20 that assembly is proceeding successfully. Known for its modularity, the Bren 2 is available in various configurations and calibers, including NATO-standard 5.56 mm and 7.62 mm, along with Ukraine’s domestically produced 7.62×39 mm. This initiative reflects Ukraine’s commitment to modernizing its military capabilities through international collaboration. Original news
Poland buys Krab SPHs, K9 support vehicles, and Rosomak APCs
Poland’s Armaments Agency has signed a PLN16.5 billion contract with Huta Stalowa Wola to procure Krab self-propelled howitzers and support vehicles for K9 SPHs. The agreement includes the delivery of over 250 vehicles to the Polish army between 2027 and 2029. Poland also plans to acquire at least 654 artillery systems from South Korea, emphasizing a robust modernization of its military capabilities. Production of K9PL units will initially take place in South Korea before transitioning to Poland in 2026. This deal reflects Poland’s strategic investment in enhancing its artillery and defense infrastructure. Original news
Ukraine Advances Killer Robot Drones With More Automation, Efficiency
Automation is becoming a widespread enhancement to human labor across various industries, including defense. Industrial robots are often tasked with operations they can perform more efficiently than humans, a trend now mirrored in Ukraine’s use of drones. Ukrainian defense planners have developed a 10-level ladder of automation, with fully independent drone swarms as the ultimate goal. Currently, drones employing computer-vision for autonomous targeting are at level four on this scale, according to Max Makarchuk, head of AI at Brave1, Ukraine’s defense-tech coordination platform. These advancements underscore a strategic shift toward integrating artificial intelligence in modern warfare. Original news
Finland Plans Significant Increase In Defense Spending
Finland’s government has proposed raising defense spending from $6.8 billion in 2025 to $11.5 billion by 2032, reaching 3.3% of GDP and exceeding NATO’s 2% guideline. Defense Minister Antti Häkkänen cited unpredictable security risks and the possibility of large-scale conflicts as key reasons for the increase. An updated Defense Report, presented to the Eduskunta on December 19, outlined threats from Russia as a major concern. Finland’s defense budget has seen significant growth since 2020, including an $8.8 billion acquisition of 64 Lockheed Martin F-35A fighters. These measures underscore Finland’s commitment to strengthening its military capabilities in response to evolving security […]
Russia will abandon its unilateral missile moratorium, Lavrov says
Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov announced that Russia will end its moratorium on deploying intermediate and shorter-range nuclear-capable missiles. This decision responds to the U.S. deployment of similar weapons worldwide, despite warnings from Russia and China. The move marks the effective demise of the INF Treaty, a Cold War-era arms control agreement, raising fears of a new arms race involving the U.S., Russia, and China. Lavrov stated that conditions for strategic dialogue with Washington on the New START treaty are currently absent. This development underscores escalating tensions and the breakdown of major arms control frameworks. Original news
Unnamed country becomes 10th to select C-390 airlifter
Embraer has secured an order for two C-390 tactical transport jets from an undisclosed nation, the 10th country to adopt this aircraft. The deal, announced on December 27, includes a comprehensive training and support package along with spare parts. Known for its superior 470kt cruise speed, the C-390 outperforms other medium-sized military transport aircraft. The model is currently in service with Brazil, Hungary, and Portugal, collectively logging approximately 15,500 flight hours. This latest order highlights the growing global demand for the C-390’s advanced capabilities. Original news
Italy signs for follow-on Eurofighters
Italy has signed a deal for up to 24 new Eurofighter Typhoons (designated F-2000 in national service) to replace its retiring early-model aircraft. Leonardo announced the agreement with the NATO Eurofighter and Tornado Management Agency (NETMA) on December 23. Details on the tranche and the distribution of single and twin-seater aircraft were not disclosed. The new aircraft are expected to be at the Tranche 4+ standard, incorporating an E-Scan radar and improvements designed to bridge delays in the Long-Term Evolution (LTE) package for Tranche 5. This acquisition ensures Italy’s continued modernization of its air combat capabilities. Original news
Turkish drone maker Baykar buys Italy’s Piaggio Aerospace
Turkish drone manufacturer Baykar has acquired Italian aircraft producer Piaggio Aerospace, according to Italy’s industry ministry. The financial details of the acquisition remain undisclosed. Piaggio Aerospace has been under government-controlled special administration since 2018 after filing for creditor protection. Baykar’s bid was selected over two international offers for its commitment to protecting the interests of Piaggio’s workers and creditors. The deal aims to secure Piaggio Aerospace’s industrial future and strengthen its operations. Original news
Japan Approves Record $55 Billion Defense Budget to Boost Military Capabilities
Japan’s Cabinet has approved a record 8.7 trillion yen ($55 billion) defense budget for 2025, accelerating its military modernization efforts. Key allocations include 940 billion yen ($6 billion) for a standoff defense system with U.S.-made Tomahawk missiles, long-range capabilities, and satellite constellations. Japan aims to double annual military spending to 10 trillion yen ($63 billion) by 2027, making it the world’s third-largest military spender. The budget funds three Mogami-class multi-purpose destroyers, with hopes Australia will select the model for its Sea 3000 frigate project, and supports Japan’s collaboration with Britain and Italy on a next-generation fighter jet. To address personnel […]
Slovakia Finalizes €560 Million Deal for Israeli Barak MX Air Defense System
Slovakia has signed a €560 million ($583 million) agreement to acquire the Israeli-made Barak MX air defense system, marking the largest defense deal between the two nations. Developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), the Barak MX provides protection against threats such as ballistic missiles, UAVs, and cruise missiles, with interceptors boasting a range of up to 150 kilometers. Israeli officials, including Defense Ministry Director General Eyal Zamir, praised the deal as a milestone in enhancing Slovakia’s defense capabilities and meeting NATO standards. This purchase adds to Slovakia’s recent acquisitions of Israeli defense technology, such as Spike LR2 anti-tank missiles and […]