US approves sale of F-16s to the Philippines in $5.5bn weapons package
The move follows U.S. Defense Secretary Peter Hegseth’s trip to the Philippines last week and comes ahead of the annual, joint Balikatan exercise.
Europe
France calls for new EU ammo plan, speeding up satellite constellation
“We have to stop with the big speeches," French Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu said, alluding to European Union mechanics for re-arming Europe.
With nod to neighbor Russia, Finland to quit global landmines ban
Quitting the treaty would give Finland more options in adjusting to "changes in the security environment," one leader said.
UK rushes naval laser weapon, as major tank upgrade hits snag
The British government in its Spring Statement in March announced plans to spend at least 10% of the Ministry of Defence equipment budget on new tech.
Opinion
Germany can co-finance European nuclear deterrence
What Germany can offer London and Paris, however, is to contribute to the considerable costs of both countries’ nuclear capabilities.
Putin announces new submarines, but the industry is strained
Moscow’s overall naval weapons mix has leaders hesitant to rush into additional production, as combat-support capabilities are in short supply.
Sweden pledges $1.6 billion in new Ukraine aid, including air defense
Defense Minister Pål Jonson said the "very serious situation" in Ukraine requires more help from allies.
Lithuania buys more weapons, beckons their makers to invest locally
The Baltic nation is set to increase its military spending to between 5% and 6% of GDP from 2026 to 2030, according to a key lawmaker.
US, Japan, Philippines stage naval drills in disputed South China Sea
A Chinese military ship monitored the maneuvers off the Scarborough Shoal from a distance.
Italy looks to fighter friend Japan for a new maritime-patrol plane
Rome could buy the Japanese Kawasaki P-1 maritime patrol aircraft to tackle hostile submarines in the Mediterranean, a possible break from U.S. suppliers.
Aussie spy planes worked overtime during nearby Chinese naval drills
Australians and Kiwis were shocked when a Chinese ship trio conducted gunnery drills in February.
Russia seen ready for big troop move year after Ukraine truce: Dutch
The Dutch threat assessment appears even more acute than warnings from German and Danish intelligence reports.
Poland signs $1.7 billion deal for infantry fighting vehicles
“We are delivering on our promise to invest in the Polish defense industry,” said Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, Poland’s defense minister.
US Army ships its newest air-defense tech to units in Asia, Europe
Some of the service's newest technologies are headed to global hotspots for Army units to try them out.
US Army plans Australia test of missile launcher that has irked China
Typhon, a mobile, land-based, ship-sinking missile capability, will be fired during the Talisman Sabre exercise with Australia in the summer.
Canada tees up military helicopter investment worth almost $13 billion
Officials said they will start working with industry this summer.
Qatar is in line to get US drones, bombs worth $2 billion
The Gulf nation's request for SeaGuardian drones had been pending for years.
