The U.S. State Department approved a $7.2 billion sale of 32 F-35A Joint Strike Fighters to Romania, including F135 engines and a spare engine. This deal would provide Romania with its first two squadrons of F-35s, with plans to purchase 16 more jets for a third squadron. Romania is expected to receive its first F-35s in 2030, potentially making it NATO’s largest F-35 operator on the eastern flank. The sale aims to enhance Romania’s defense capabilities and interoperability with NATO allies, especially in light of Russian aggression in Ukraine. The deal also includes logistics, training, maintenance support, and weapons systems […]
Tag: News
The EU buys too much defense equipment abroad, especially from the US, a major report says
A new report on EU competitiveness highlights that European Union countries are relying too heavily on foreign defense equipment, particularly from the United States, with nearly two-thirds of purchases coming from abroad. The report, authored by former Italian prime minister Mario Draghi, also notes that EU member states are not sufficiently leveraging Europe’s research and development capacities for military modernization. European defense spending is far behind that of the U.S., hindering the development of stronger domestic defense firms. This issue has become more urgent as the EU struggles to provide sufficient arms and ammunition to support Ukraine in its ongoing […]
US Air Force F-35s Touch Down on a Highway in Finland for ‘Historic’ Landing
On September 4, 2024, two U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II jets landed on a Finnish highway, marking the first time fifth-generation American aircraft operated from a road in Europe. This was part of the Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concept, aimed at enhancing NATO’s ability to operate from non-traditional airfields in response to growing global threats. The exercise took place during Finland’s annual Baana exercise, showcasing U.S. and NATO adaptability in joint operations. Finland, which regularly trains its pilots to land on highways, recently joined NATO and plans to replace its F/A-18 fleet with 64 F-35s. The U.S. and NATO […]
Elbit eyes Nordic market for its ‘Iron Fist’ vehicle-protection system
Israel’s Elbit Systems is seeking to sell its Iron Fist active protection system (APS) to Denmark, Sweden, and Finland after a contract with BAE Systems Hägglunds for CV90 vehicles in Europe. The system has already been ordered by the Netherlands and the U.S. for Bradley infantry fighting vehicles. Elbit Systems showcased Iron Fist at Poland’s MSPO defense show, pitching it to the Polish military. The company sees significant potential for Iron Fist in Poland, highlighting its adaptability for both wheeled and tracked vehicles. Iron Fist provides 360-degree protection against anti-tank threats, enhancing vehicle survivability.Original news
Stressing ‘security, security,’ Poland goes big at hometown defense expo
At the 32nd International Defense Industry Exhibition (MSPO) in Poland, President Andrzej Duda emphasized the country’s focus on “security” as Warsaw announced approximately $520 million in new defense deals. Duda stressed the need to strengthen NATO forces and build new arms factories to enhance Poland’s defense capabilities. The event, held in Kielce, Poland, featured over 750 exhibitors from 34 countries, with the U.S. and U.K. having the largest foreign representation. Poland’s Armament Agency signed contracts for various defense equipment, including anti-missile systems, heavy-lift cranes, and contamination detection systems. Additionally, Poland showcased its defense products to international buyers, promoting its industry […]
First locally produced Patria 6×6 APC delivered to Latvian armed forces
On August 5, 2024, Defence Partnership Latvia delivered the first Latvian-made Patria 6×6 armored personnel carrier (APC) to the Latvian National Armed Forces (NAF). This marks a milestone in a 2021 contract between Latvia and Patria to deliver over 200 APCs by 2029, aimed at enhancing Latvia’s defense capabilities and industrial base. A new facility in Valmiera, Latvia, was opened in May to produce around 30 APCs annually. The Patria 6×6 is part of the multinational Common Armoured Vehicle System (CAVS) program, with participation from Finland, Latvia, Sweden, and Germany. Patria has received nearly 700 orders for the APC, with […]