Rudy Ruitenberg
Rudy Ruitenberg is a Europe correspondent for Defense News. He started his career at Bloomberg News and has experience reporting on technology, commodity markets and politics.
All Stories By Rudy
EU approves first-ever funding for joint weapons, ammo procurement
Air defense weapons, armored vehicles and 155mm artillery ammunition are on the bloc's shopping list.
European militaries rush to catch up on space traffic mapping
“We have no map of space, it’s a drama for the military,” said Col. Ludovic Monnerat, head of space domain for the Swiss Armed Forces.
Dutch Navy to buy armed sidekick ships for its air-defense frigates
Dutch shipyard Damen will build the vessels, with Israel Aerospace Industries supplying interceptors, drones and electronic-warfare equipment.
Rheinmetall unveils UK’s upgraded Challenger 3 battle tank
The Challenger 3 with the Ajax fighting vehicles and Boxer infantry vehicles form the centerpieces of British efforts to modernize land forces.
France and Italy order upgraded SAMP/T air-defense systems
The next-generation upgrade gives the French-Italian system an intercept range of more than 150 kilometers, or 93 miles.
France plans low-orbit demonstrator that can target other satellites
The nanosatellite won’t be weaponized, though it may include a “dazzling” capacity, according to the general in charge.
France tests space lasers for secure satellite downlink in world first
The point-to-point nature of lasers makes them more secure than radio frequencies, and they can’t be jammed the way radio can.
Netherlands to add tanks, F-35s, frigates amid warnings of war
With a Russian attack on NATO no longer deemed inconceivable, the Dutch plan to bolster all branches of their military forces.
Netherlands picks Israel’s Rafael to supply upgraded anti-tank systems
Requirements for the new system include increased targeting range and non-line-of-sight firing capability, according to the ministry.
Serbia to buy 12 Rafale fighter jets in nod to European industry
The contract for nine single-seater Rafales and three two-seaters is worth €2.7 billion (US$3 billion), according to French media.
