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 […]
Tag: News
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 […]
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
German cartel office approves Rheinmetall, Leonardo joint venture
Germany’s cartel office has approved the establishment of a joint venture between Rheinmetall and Italy’s Leonardo, as announced in a statement on Monday. The collaboration, initiated last October, aims to develop and manufacture military combat vehicles, marking a significant step toward consolidating the European defense sector. Cartel office president Andreas Mundt emphasized the importance of both companies in the defense industry but noted no competition concerns arose from the joint venture. The approval was granted quickly, reflecting the strategic significance and compatibility of the partnership. This development highlights ongoing efforts to strengthen European defense capabilities through collaboration. Original news
Sweden’s Saab posts higher-than-expected 2024 organic sales growth
Saab, the Swedish defense manufacturer, projects 23.4% organic sales growth for 2024, exceeding its earlier forecast of 15-20%. This surge is attributed to strong project execution in Q4 and rising global defense demand amid geopolitical tensions, including the war in Ukraine. Preliminary Q4 sales reached 20.9 billion Swedish crowns, up from 16.1 billion the prior year, with full-year sales rising to 63.8 billion crowns from 51.6 billion in 2023. Despite a 4.7% drop in shares as of midday trading, the company’s stock has risen 30.7% over the past year. Saab’s performance underscores its resilience and strategic position in the growing […]
Sweden Unveils Drone Swarm For Military Use
Sweden has unveiled a swarm of aerial drones to enhance the Swedish Armed Forces’ intelligence and surveillance capabilities. The initiative was announced by Defense Minister Pal Jonson during a press conference on January 15. Developed in partnership with Saab and Swedish military entities, the drones feature advanced software and sensors for efficient coordination and communication. This cutting-edge technology has attracted attention from NATO allies, underscoring its strategic value. The development marks a significant advancement in Sweden’s defense innovation and global military technology leadership. Original news
Norwegian F-35s Scrambled In Poland During Russian Missile Strikes On Ukraine
Norway scrambled two F-35A stealth fighters from Poland in response to Russian missile strikes targeting Ukraine. Lt. Col. Eivind Byre of the Royal Norwegian Air Force stated the jets were deployed to protect Polish airspace as part of NATO’s collective defense. The scramble coincided with a large-scale Russian attack involving over 40 missiles and 70 drones aimed at Ukraine’s energy infrastructure. Norwegian F-35s and a NASAMS air defense system are stationed in Poland to safeguard critical logistics hubs. This mission, part of NATO operations, is expected to conclude in April. Original news
Italy Acquires Skynex Air Defense System from Rheinmetall
Italy has ordered a Skynex air defense system from Rheinmetall for €73 million, with an option to purchase three additional systems for €204 million. Skynex is designed to counter a wide range of threats, including missiles, artillery, mortars, drones, and loitering munitions. The system includes air surveillance sensors, a command-and-control station, four 35mm Mk3 firing units, ammunition, training, and maintenance. The first system will be delivered in Q2 2026, with optional systems potentially following in 2027. This marks Italy as the first NATO member to adopt Skynex with Mk3 guns, reflecting Rheinmetall’s growing role in NATO defense programs, including combat […]
With torpedo firm buy, Fincantieri eyes $100bn undersea-defense market
Fincantieri, the Italian state shipyard, has completed the acquisition of Italian torpedo firm WASS from Leonardo for a potential total of €415 million ($428 million). The acquisition strengthens Fincantieri’s expertise in underwater acoustic technologies and advanced weapons systems, aligning with its strategy to expand its undersea business. The deal includes a fixed payment of €287 million, with the total contingent on WASS’s 2024 performance. Fincantieri predicts global undersea defense spending to reach €94 billion between 2024 and 2030, highlighting significant market potential. This acquisition positions Fincantieri as a key player in the growing undersea defence sector. Original news