Belgium’s U.S.-based conversion unit for the Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II received its first national aircraft, FL002, on December 4 at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona. The aircraft will support Belgian Air Component training under the U.S. Air Force’s 312th Fighter Squadron. Over the coming years, 48 pilots, 14 simulator instructors, and 120 technicians from Belgium will train on the F-35A. Training for Belgian personnel began in 2022 for pilots and operational support, with technician training starting in 2023. FL002’s arrival marks a significant step in Belgium’s adoption of advanced air capabilities. Original news
Tag: News
First F-35 for Poland makes maiden flight
The first Lockheed Martin F-35A Lightning II for Poland completed its maiden flight on December 2 at Lockheed Martin’s Fort Worth facility in Texas. Aircraft 3502, flown by a company pilot, will undergo flight trials before joining 3501 at Ebbing Air National Guard Base in Arkansas for pilot training. Poland’s first pilot is expected to begin flying the F-35A in January 2025. Named “Husarz” by Poland’s Ministry of National Defence, the aircraft will feature low-visibility greyed-out checkerboard markings to preserve stealth capabilities. This marks a significant milestone in Poland’s modernization of its air force. Original news
Saab steps up counter-drone training offer, with UK as first customer
Saab has introduced a new uncrewed aerial vehicle (UAV) training service, with the UK armed forces as its first customer. Unveiled at I/ITSEC on December 2, the system is designed for live exercises, functioning as either an asset or a simulated threat. The off-the-shelf UAV platform can be customized with sensors and simulated weapons to meet customer needs. It incorporates a laser target system that allows it to engage participants virtually or simulate being shot down by ground forces, enhancing tactical training. This innovation aims to improve soldier skills and tactical behavior evaluation in realistic scenarios. Original news
Vivek Ramaswamy Wants to Shift Defense Spending to New Technology
At the Aspen Security Forum, Vivek Ramaswamy emphasized the need for the Pentagon to prioritize investments in emerging technologies like drones and hypersonic missiles over traditional defense programs. He criticized the current spending approach, advocating for a focus on securing the U.S. while ensuring taxpayer value. Elon Musk, co-chair of the Department of Government Efficiency, echoed these sentiments, labeling manned fighter jets like the F-35 “obsolete” in comparison to drones. Both leaders highlighted the urgency of modernizing U.S. defense strategies to address evolving threats. This perspective signals a push for innovation-driven defense policies. Original news
Dutch say tight defense market leaves €750M of Ukraine aid unspent
The Netherlands will defer €750 million of planned military aid for Ukraine to 2025 due to constraints in the global defense market, Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans announced. Despite this delay, the funds remain allocated for Ukraine as part of the Netherlands’ €10.4 billion military support pledge. Brekelmans noted that increased global demand is straining the defense industry as countries bolster their own militaries while aiding Ukraine. Dutch military assistance includes 24 F-16 fighters, a Patriot air-defense system, Leopard 2A4 tanks, armored personnel carriers, and mine-hunting vessels. The Netherlands has already committed or is negotiating €9.5 billion of its pledge, […]
Germany Creates Combined Army, Air Force Helicopter Brigade
Germany will establish a joint aviation brigade combining army (Heer) and air force (Luftwaffe) helicopters to enhance operational readiness in response to Russia’s war in Ukraine. Announced on December 3, the brigade aims to meet NATO objectives by deploying forces more effectively and improving reaction speed. The Aviation Brigade New Force Model will include 65 helicopters, primarily Heer NH90 Troop Transport Helicopters (TTHs) and Luftwaffe CH-53G-series helicopters. This move underscores Germany’s commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities within NATO’s framework. The initiative highlights a unified approach to address evolving security challenges in Europe. Original news
Slovakia spends 2.2% of GDP on defence in 2024
Slovakia is set to increase its defense budget from 2024 to 2029, exceeding NATO’s 2% GDP target in response to European security challenges. Planned investments include CV90 infantry fighting vehicles, main battle tanks, and upgraded F-16V fighter jets. Defense spending is projected to peak at 2.75% of GDP by 2029, highlighting Slovakia’s commitment to military modernization. This surge in funding reflects the country’s strategic focus on strengthening its defense capabilities. The initiative aligns with NATO’s collective defense goals amid a changing security landscape. Original news
Construction to begin on Rheinmetall plant in Lithuania
Lithuania and Rheinmetall have finalized contracts for the construction of a €180m ($189.2m) production plant for 155mm artillery ammunition in Baisogala. The facility, spanning 340 hectares, will include shell manufacturing and load assembly pack operations, aiming to produce tens of thousands of artillery shells annually by mid-2026. This state-significant project, established through a partnership between Lithuania’s government and Rheinmetall, will create 150 jobs and integrate local businesses into the defense supply chain. Lithuanian Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė emphasized the urgency of enhancing defense capabilities, supported by strong cooperation between Lithuania and Germany. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger highlighted the partnership as […]
Hungary, Italy temporarily take on Croatian air defence
Hungary and Italy have temporarily assumed responsibility for Croatia’s air defense during its transition from MiG-21 aircraft to Dassault Rafale jets. Hungarian Air Force Saab Gripens and Italian Air Force Eurofighter F-2000s will provide air policing and quick reaction alert (QRA) until late 2025 or early 2026. This arrangement is part of NATO’s air-policing missions and comes at no cost to Croatia. The agreement signifies the official retirement of the MiG-21 from Croatian service. This collaboration ensures Croatia’s airspace security during its military modernization. Original news
Rheinmetall Acquires Loc Performance To Expand US Market Presence
Rheinmetall Group has announced the acquisition of Loc Performance Products, LLC, a U.S.-based military vehicle specialist, as part of its strategy to expand in the world’s largest defense market. The $950 million acquisition strengthens Rheinmetall’s industrial base in the U.S. and positions it for major contracts, including the $45 billion XM30 infantry fighting vehicle program and the $16 billion CTT tactical truck program. Loc Performance, with its advanced manufacturing capabilities and 1.7 million square feet of production space, enhances Rheinmetall’s capacity to support U.S. Department of Defense modernization efforts. The partnership combines Loc’s manufacturing expertise with Rheinmetall’s next-generation technologies to […]
Dutch F-35s arrive in Estonia for NATO air policing mission
Four Lockheed Martin F-35A stealth fighters from the Royal Netherlands Air Force (RNLAF) have been deployed to Estonia’s Amari Air Base for NATO’s air policing mission near the Russian border. The jets arrived on December 2 after an eight-month renovation of the base, enhancing its operational capacity. RNLAF Lieutenant Colonel Pascal Smaal stated that the fifth-generation fighters are ready to provide round-the-clock air surveillance and defense for NATO allies. Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur welcomed the deployment, highlighting the importance of NATO’s rotational air defense model for regional security. This mission underscores NATO’s commitment to protecting its eastern flank. Original […]
Space firms plot new European satellite venture to take on Starlink
Airbus, Thales, and Leonardo are exploring the creation of a joint space company, “Project Bromo,” to rival Elon Musk’s Starlink. The proposed entity would be a standalone European satellite firm modeled after MBDA, a missile maker jointly owned by Airbus, Leonardo, and BAE Systems. Leonardo CEO Roberto Cingolani confirmed the structure would follow the MBDA model, aiming to strengthen Europe’s satellite capabilities. Sources indicated the merger is independent of Airbus’s planned job cuts and could take years to finalize. This initiative highlights Europe’s strategic push for autonomy in the satellite and space industries. Original news
EU Nears Agreement On €1.5 Billion Defense Fund.
European Union member states are nearing agreement on a €1.5 billion defense fund to strengthen the bloc’s defense industry and support Ukraine over three years. The European Defence Investment Program (EDIP) is expected to be finalized by year-end, enabling military purchases with up to 35% of components from outside the EU. This approach balances the goal of bolstering Europe’s defense sector with the urgent need for ready-made equipment for Ukraine. The EU is also identifying flagship projects of common interest, such as air and missile defense, to benefit from EDIP funding. This initiative reflects the EU’s dual focus on immediate […]
Norway to send F-35 fighter jets, air defence systems to Poland
Norway’s defense ministry announced plans to deploy F-35 fighter jets and NASAMS air defense systems to Poland’s Rzeszow airport, a key logistics hub for military aid to Ukraine. Starting in early December, Norway will also send around 100 soldiers to safeguard the airspace above the airport. Defence Minister Bjoern Arild Gram emphasized Poland’s critical role in supporting Ukraine, ensuring aid reaches its destination. This deployment underscores Norway’s commitment to bolstering Ukraine’s defense capabilities amid ongoing conflict. The initiative highlights international collaboration to maintain the flow of military support to Ukraine. Original news
EU fund common defence procurement for the first time
In November 2024, the European Union allocated €300 million ($315.3 million) to fund five defense projects under the European Defence Industry Reinforcement through Common Procurement Act (EDIRPA). These projects include the Mistral and IRIS-T air defense systems, the Finnish-led Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS), and 155mm ammunition procurement. The initiative aims to strengthen regional defense industries, expand manufacturing capacities, and provide long-term governmental support. Germany’s Vice Admiral Carsten Stawitzki welcomed the move as progress toward a “self-determined European security architecture.” This funding reflects the EU’s commitment to enhancing collective defense capabilities. Original news