NATO air policing missions near Estonia have involved Dutch F-35s and French Rafale jets intercepting Russian aircraft in the Baltic region. On Friday, French Rafales scrambled for the first time since their deployment in Lithuania, intercepting a Russian Ilyushin Il-18 near Estonia’s coast. Last week, Dutch F-35s intercepted three Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea, according to the Dutch defense ministry. These missions highlight NATO’s ongoing efforts to monitor and secure Baltic airspace amid rising tensions with Russia. Original news
Tag: News
Czech Army set for more upgraded Leopards as part of an equipment swap with Ukraine
Rheinmetall has secured a €161 million (US$169 million) deal to supply 14 refurbished Leopard 2A4 main battle tanks (MBTs) to the Czech Republic under a “ring swap agreement.” This arrangement allows the Czech Republic to receive modern tanks in exchange for providing older equipment to Ukraine’s armed forces. The tanks, primarily sourced from former Swiss stocks, will be upgraded to meet Czech-specific configurations. Delivery is set to be completed by the end of 2026 as part of efforts to modernize the Czech military. This agreement underscores ongoing European defense collaboration in response to regional security challenges. Original news
Poland wants more NATO members to help police Baltic Sea
Polish Defense Minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz has called for greater NATO involvement in policing the Baltic Sea to counter potential threats from Russia. At the upcoming NATO summit in The Hague, Poland plans to push for increased naval contributions from European nations like Germany and France. Kosiniak-Kamysz highlighted Poland’s substantial defense investments, including major purchases of U.S. equipment, as key to showcasing Europe’s self-reliance and securing continued American support. While Norway has deployed F-35 fighters to safeguard Polish airspace, Kosiniak-Kamysz noted that Poland’s MiG-29 jets cannot yet be sent to Ukraine, citing unmet conditions for Poland’s complete security. His remarks underscore […]
British Army Tests Laser Weapon On Drones
British troops successfully tested a high-energy laser weapon to destroy drones, as confirmed by the Ministry of Defence. Conducted at Radnor Range in Wales by the 16th Regiment Royal Artillery, the test involved a laser mounted on a Wolfhound armored vehicle engaging drones at various distances. Stephen Waller, from MoD’s Defence Equipment & Support team, emphasized the laser’s cost-effectiveness, quick engagement, and “virtually limitless” ammunition as critical advantages against drone threats. Developed with Raytheon UK under a £16.8 million contract, the weapon is part of the UK’s Land Laser Directed Energy Weapon Demonstrator program. This marks a significant step in […]
MDA conducts first-ever ballistic missile intercept test from Guam
In a recent test, the Aegis Guam System successfully intercepted a Medium Range Ballistic Missile target using the AN/TPY-6 radar and a Standard Missile-3 Block IIA interceptor. The radar, specifically designed for Guam’s defense architecture, was delivered earlier this year and incorporates advanced technology from MDA’s Long-Range Discrimination Radar in Alaska. This demonstration highlights the capability of integrating cutting-edge radar systems with interceptors to defend against ballistic missile threats. The Long-Range Discrimination Radar in Alaska is scheduled for its own operational testing next year to further validate its capabilities. These developments underscore advancements in missile defense technologies critical to regional […]
Lockheed Martin will collaborate with Norwegian companies on advanced technologies
Lockheed Martin has partnered with five Norwegian companies to develop advanced aviation and defense technologies, emphasizing innovation and local economic growth. The projects include AI-driven repair solutions for air vehicles (Empact), pilot hydration sensors (ModeSensors), efficiency-enhancing collaboration platforms (Jotne), specialized propellers for UAVs (Alva Industries), and ice protection solutions for rotorcraft and UAVs (UBIQ Aerospace). These partnerships aim to improve flight readiness and mission capabilities for military and commercial customers while leveraging Norway’s technological expertise. With contracts valued at $8 million over 24 months, the collaboration strengthens Lockheed Martin’s global supply chain and supports economic development in Norway. This initiative […]
Cybersecurity and Supply Chain Concerns Shape SDA’s Satellite Development Priorities
The U.S. Space Development Agency (SDA), led by Derek Tournear, is focused on deploying a resilient Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture of low Earth orbit satellites to enhance rapid sensor-to-shooter connections. While not overly concerned about anti-satellite attacks, Tournear emphasizes the critical threats of cybersecurity vulnerabilities and supply chain fragility, which could undermine the network’s effectiveness. SDA has faced delays in satellite launches due to supply chain issues, such as shortages of resistors and optical communication terminals. To mitigate risks, the agency prioritizes sourcing U.S.-developed software and ensuring the provenance of all satellite components. Tournear and other defense leaders, including Gen. […]
Saab to supply Giraffe radars to US Air Force in Europe
Saab will deliver multiple Giraffe 4A radar systems to the US Air Force in Europe (USAFE) under a $48 million contract from BAE Systems, with deliveries starting in 2027. The systems will enhance long-range surveillance and air base defense in a mobile configuration for USAFE operations. USAFE oversees seven main air bases in Europe, including Poland’s 32nd Tactical Air Base in Łask. This base hosted 12 F-22 Raptors from the 90th Fighter Squadron in 2022, reflecting its strategic importance. The radar deployment underscores ongoing efforts to bolster U.S. and allied air defense capabilities in Europe. Original news
Ukrainian Small Launcher Finds Refuge in the US
Ukrainian launch company Promin Aerospace has opened an office in Brunswick, Maine, to hire U.S. engineers and complete its first rocket by mid-2026. Originally planning to launch from the Black Sea, the company relocated operations to the U.S. due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. CEO Misha Rudominski highlighted the need for faster development and the resources available in the U.S. as key factors in the move. Promin plans to conduct its first suborbital flight test from Maine, leveraging its new base to advance its ambitions. Despite the challenges of war, the company is determined to expand globally and achieve its […]
Anduril Highlights 100-Hour Extra-Large AUV Voyage, Plans 1,000-Mile Mission
Anduril Industries set a record with its Dive-XL autonomous undersea vehicle, completing a 100-hour voyage and showcasing its endurance capabilities. The company aims to achieve a 1,000 nautical mile submerged journey by 2025, emphasizing its scalable production for cost-effective deployment. Anduril’s readiness to supply the U.S. government is bolstered by a newly established production facility. In comparison, Boeing’s Orca unmanned undersea vehicle recently completed a 48-hour test run, demonstrating the competitive landscape for advanced undersea technologies. These developments highlight growing innovation and competition in autonomous maritime systems for defense applications. Original news
Dutch F-35s intercepted three Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea
Dutch F-35 fighter jets intercepted three Russian aircraft over the Baltic Sea on Friday, escorting them over international waters to the NATO area boundary, according to the Dutch defense ministry. Since December, Dutch F-35s have been patrolling NATO’s eastern border, with quick reaction alert (QRA) deployments from Estonia to intercept unidentified aircraft. This latest interception highlights ongoing Russian military activity near NATO airspace. Dutch Defence Minister Ruben Brekelmans reaffirmed the importance of these missions, emphasizing the readiness of Dutch forces. The patrols demonstrate NATO’s commitment to maintaining airspace security in response to regional tensions. Original news
Trump’s Musk-led efficiency drive may spur defense-tech partnerships
President-elect Donald Trump’s efficiency initiative, co-led by Elon Musk, may promote collaborations between major defense contractors like Lockheed Martin and smaller tech firms specializing in AI, drones, and uncrewed submarines. At the Reagan National Defense Forum, industry leaders discussed opportunities for smaller companies to gain a greater role in defense, with Musk’s influence potentially challenging the dominance of established defense giants. Critics of Lockheed Martin’s F-35 program, including Musk, advocate for more cost-effective, AI-powered solutions, aligning with smaller firms’ innovation. Palantir CTO Shyam Sankar highlighted the value of collaboration, urging a move beyond zero-sum competition to mutual benefits for defense […]
Italian Navy Acquires New Flagship Vessel, Trieste
The Italian Navy received the multipurpose landing helicopter deck Trieste on December 7, 2024, marking the largest post-war ship built in Italy. Constructed by Fincantieri and Finmeccanica, Trieste will serve as the flagship of Italy’s Amphibious Task Group, supporting amphibious operations, air missions, logistical support, and humanitarian efforts. The $1.3 billion vessel spans 245 meters, displaces 37,770 tons, and can accommodate 1,064 personnel, with capacity for LC-23 landing craft, LCACs, F-35Bs, CH-47 helicopters, and MV-22s. It features nine aircraft spots and a floodable dock for enhanced operational versatility. The delivery ceremony in Livorno was attended by Italian President Sergio Mattarella, […]
Nordic countries discuss joint procurement of CV90 Mk IV IFVs
Nordic Defence Cooperation members, including Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden, are exploring a joint procurement of CV90 Mk IV infantry fighting vehicles. According to BAE Systems Hägglunds Managing Director Tommy Gustafsson-Rask, the discussions are in early stages but could result in the purchase of several hundred vehicles. Lithuania may also participate in the procurement effort, broadening regional collaboration. This initiative underscores a collective push to enhance military capabilities across the Nordic and Baltic regions. The potential joint purchase highlights the importance of regional defense partnerships in modernizing ground forces. Original news
Defense contractors urged to volunteer their own DOGE cuts
At the Reagan National Defense Forum, Senator Deb Fischer urged major defense companies to suggest cuts to their own programs in anticipation of the “Department of Government Efficiency” (DOGE) review. Led by Elon Musk and Vivek Ramaswamy under President-elect Trump, the DOGE initiative seeks to reduce $2 trillion in federal spending. Fischer emphasized that Congress must play a key role in guiding these spending cuts, challenging stakeholders to propose reductions to programs they benefit from. Palantir CEO Alex Karp expressed strong support for Musk’s involvement, highlighting his record as “the world’s most successful builder.” The forum, featuring top national security […]