Germany’s selection of the Israeli-designed PULS rocket artillery system over Lockheed Martin’s options signals a shift in European defense procurement. Berlin signed a $57 million contract with Elbit, choosing a system that can fire rockets from multiple manufacturers, unlike Lockheed’s proprietary GMLRS launchers. U.S. restrictions currently prevent Lockheed missiles from being used with PULS, though Germany will maintain its MARS launchers for existing stock. The decision challenges Lockheed’s market dominance and reflects Germany’s push for greater defense autonomy. Berlin is also exploring European missile production to reduce reliance on U.S. suppliers. Original news
Tag: News
European Defense Start-Ups See 24% Surge in Investment Amid Rising Security Concerns
Investment in European defense and security start-ups jumped 24% in 2024 to $5.2 billion, outpacing AI venture capital growth on the continent over the past two years. A report by the NATO Innovation Fund and Dealroom highlighted growing investor confidence in companies like defense AI firm Helsing and drone maker Tekever, despite a broader downturn in European VC funding. Germany overtook the UK as the leading destination for defense tech investment, with Munich attracting nearly $1 billion in funding last year. The NATO fund, launched in 2022 with €1 billion, aims to bridge Europe’s funding gap in defense innovation, as […]
China Expands Space Ties in Africa with $50 Billion Investment
China has signed nearly 24 agreements with African nations to develop space capabilities, focusing on satellites, lunar missions, and deep-space exploration. The deals are backed by $50 billion in loans and investments, aimed at advancing Africa’s space programs while also expanding China’s global surveillance network. This has raised concerns about potential military and intelligence applications, as China gains access to valuable surveillance data. The U.S. views these projects as security risks, fearing they could strengthen China’s military coordination. The partnerships highlight China’s growing influence in Africa’s space sector amid rising geopolitical tensions. Original news
Saab to Begin Flight Tests for Future Fighter System
Saab will start flight-test activities later this year as part of Sweden’s Future Fighter System study, initially focusing on unmanned aircraft. The program aims to develop autonomous combat or surveillance drones that operate alongside manned fighter jets. Saab is exploring key technologies such as low observability, artificial intelligence, and autonomy while conducting drone swarm trials with the Swedish Army. Meanwhile, the company is negotiating a Gripen E deal with Thailand and attracting strong interest from Colombia, Peru, and Brazil for future sales. The initiative underscores Saab’s commitment to next-generation air combat capabilities and expanding its global fighter jet market. Original […]
Germany Deploys Patriot Air-Defense Systems to Poland
Germany has deployed two Patriot air-defense systems to Poland, the Bundeswehr announced on February 7. The mission, which began in mid-January, involves 100 vehicles and 200 personnel from Germany’s Surface-to-Air Missile Group 21, replacing a U.S. Patriot unit stationed in Poland for over two years. The six-month deployment includes a command center and support personnel to strengthen regional air defenses. While the U.S. continues providing Avenger systems, Norway has stationed F-35A fighter jets and NASAMS units to enhance security. The move reinforces NATO’s collective defense posture amid ongoing regional tensions. Original news
Netherlands Orders L3Harris Radios for Military Modernization
The Netherlands has ordered L3Harris Technologies’ AN/PRC-167, AN/PRC-163, and AN/PRC-160 portable radios as part of its Foxtrot modernization program. The initiative aims to replace outdated communication systems and enhance battlefield management. Deliveries, including software and integration services, are scheduled for 2026. The program will equip around 8,000 vehicles, 3,500 personnel, 135 vessels, and 170 aircraft with upgraded communication capabilities. The first major delivery will support key operational units, including the Royal Netherlands Army’s 44th Battalion and special forces. Original news
Belgium Pledges to Boost Defense Spending to 2.5% of GDP by 2034
Belgium’s new government, led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever, has committed to increasing defense spending to NATO’s 2% GDP target by 2029 and 2.5% by 2034. Defense Minister Theo Francken called past underinvestment a “period of national disgrace” and emphasized the need for modernization. The plan includes funding for air defense, additional F-35 fighter jets, a third frigate, and increased munitions stockpiles. Belgium, which spent just 1.3% of GDP on defense last year, will support upgrades through a €2.4 billion Defense Fund. The Ministry of Defence will present a new investment plan ahead of the NATO summit in June. […]
Trump Eases Enforcement of Law Banning Overseas Bribes
President Trump signed an executive order on Monday easing enforcement of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA), which prohibits U.S. companies from bribing foreign officials. The order directs Attorney General Pam Bondi to halt FCPA-related actions until new enforcement guidelines are issued. It also mandates a review of all past and ongoing cases under the law. The administration argues that the restriction puts American businesses at a competitive disadvantage. The move is expected to spark debate over corporate ethics and international business practices. Original news
Tech Firms Gain as U.S. Military Shifts to AI and Software-Driven Systems
Palantir, SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anduril Industries are attracting investor confidence as the U.S. military prioritizes software, drones, and AI-driven technologies. The shift is influenced by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, which pushes for reducing waste and expanding defense procurement to new players. As a result, Palantir’s market value has surpassed the combined worth of Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, and Northrop Grumman. This reflects a broader trend of technology firms gaining prominence in defense contracting over traditional military suppliers. The realignment signals a growing focus on software-based warfare and autonomous systems in U.S. defense strategy. Original news
US and Allies Flex Muscles at West Pacific Military Outpost
The U.S., Australia, and Japan have deployed advanced stealth fighter jets for Cope North 2025, a trilateral military exercise running from February 3 to 21 in Guam. The drills focus on improving interoperability between the nations’ F-35 units and strengthening regional security in the Indo-Pacific. The exercise comes as China unveils its new stealth aircraft, the J-20S and J-35A, heightening regional tensions. U.S. Pacific Air Forces stressed the importance of integrated training to deter potential conflicts. The Pentagon is expected to continue bolstering its military presence in the Western Pacific to counter emerging threats. Original news
Global Demand for F-16 Grows as Lockheed Martin Expands Production
The Lockheed Martin F-16 remains in high demand, with countries upgrading fleets or acquiring new Block 70/72 models. Ukraine has received F-16s from Denmark, the Netherlands, and Norway, while pilot training remains a key focus. Poland secured a $7.3 billion upgrade package, while Turkey reduced its planned purchase from $23 billion to $7 billion. Lockheed Martin is ramping up production to address a backlog of 117 aircraft, with deliveries underway for Bulgaria, Slovakia, and Taiwan. Future upgrades, including L3Harris’ Viper Shield electronic warfare suite, will extend the F-16’s operational life into the 2070s. Original news
Saab and Kongsberg Report Record Sales as European Defense Spending Surges
Sweden’s Saab and Norway’s Kongsberg posted record sales growth in 2024, driven by increased European defense spending amid heightened security concerns following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Saab’s orders rose 24% to 96.8 billion kronor ($8.9 billion), fueled by Gripen fighter jet deals and air defense contracts. Kongsberg reported a 44% jump to 54.4 billion kroner ($4.85 billion), boosted by a major U.S. Navy missile order. With European defense budgets projected to reach a record €326 billion in 2024, both companies anticipate continued expansion. Saab and Kongsberg are focusing on securing NATO contracts and expanding global production capabilities to meet growing […]
U.S. Senate Budget Proposal Seeks $150 Billion Defense Boost
The U.S. Senate Budget Committee has introduced a resolution that could add $150 billion to defense spending if approved by Congress. The proposal emphasizes military readiness, shipbuilding, missile defense—including an “Iron Dome for America”—and nuclear modernization. A separate bill allocates $19.5 billion for missile defense, funding Next Generation Interceptors and THAAD system upgrades. Lawmakers argue the increase is necessary to counter global threats and maintain U.S. military superiority. The resolution, if passed, would mark one of the largest defense spending increases in recent years. Original news
U.K. Repurposes Retired Tornado Parts for 3D-Printed Tempest Fighter Components
The U.K. has achieved a world first by recycling components from retired Eurofighter Tornado jets into 3D-printable materials for the upcoming sixth-generation Tempest fighter. As part of the Tornado 2 Tempest project, titanium, aluminum, and steel were ground into powdered metal for additive manufacturing. Rolls-Royce successfully 3D-printed new components, including a nose cone and compressor blades, from repurposed Tornado titanium for its Orpheus test engine. The nose cone passed safety and performance tests, proving the viability of this recycling approach for Tempest aircraft production. Led by Additive Manufacturing Solutions Limited, the initiative aims to cut costs, enhance sustainability, and reduce […]
Ukraine Receives First Mirage 2000 Fighter Jets from France
Ukraine has received its first batch of Mirage 2000 fighter jets from France, French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu confirmed on Thursday. The delivery introduces a second type of Western aircraft into Ukraine’s arsenal, complementing the F-16 jets supplied by allies. Lecornu stated that the jets will now aid in defending Ukraine’s airspace, following the training of Ukrainian pilots in France. The Mirage 2000 is equipped for air-to-ground combat and enhances Ukraine’s ability to integrate NATO weaponry, including Scalp/Storm Shadow cruise missiles. The move strengthens Ukraine’s aerial defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict. Original news