KNDS, Rheinmetall, Thales move ahead on next-generation tank project
A shareholder agreement among contractors moves the envisioned Eurotank closer to actual work getting done on the program.
Europe
Key EU military official urges sharpening of mutual-defense clause
The stipulation lacks meaning in the event of a conflict, said the chairman of the EU Military Committee.
German defense officials craft a digital über-model for the Bundeswehr
The insights are meant to generate a blueprint for a new way of doing business, streamlined flows of standardized data and all.
German Patriot batteries begin guarding Ukraine aid hub in Poland
Rzeszów, a large Polish city in close proximity to the country’s border with Ukraine, is an instrumental location in the flow of Western equipment.
Ukraine to hand combat units $60 million monthly for new drones
Ukraine has been a crucible for drone innovation as it fights off Russia’s invasion.
India gets an observer seat in the Eurodrone program
India joins Japan as observer on the project launched by Italy, France, Germany and Spain.
In Japan, a more muted cheering for the British-led GCAP warplane
By contrast, there is “GCAP silence” in Japan, says one local observer of business ties between Japan and the West.
‘Wake up’ about defense, Macron tells Europe as Trump takes office
France and Europe need to adapt to evolving threats and changing interests, Macron said.
Sweden unveils drone swarm to be paired with ground troops
In a demonstration video, a formation of 10 quadcopters is seen taking off and relaying video footage from above snowy forests to ground operators.
France slams ‘unacceptable’ Russian targeting of Baltic patrol flight
A French Atlantique 2 aircraft patrolling international airspace over the Baltic was targeted by the fire-control system of a Russian S-400 launcher.
Norway, France vow closer defense ties as Naval Group eyes frigate biz
France is on Norway’s shortlist to supply five or six frigates in what would be the biggest Norwegian defense investment ever.
Turkish navy touts strategic ambitions with Mavi Vatan 2025 drill
Ankara's naval doctrine is seen by Greece and Israel as a major geopolitical challenge.
With torpedo firm buy, Fincantieri eyes $100bn undersea-defense market
Italian state shipyard Fincantieri has completed the purchase of Italian torpedo firm WASS for a price that could reach €415 million ($428 million).
Slovakia considers CV90120, Leopards to replace Soviet-era tanks
The lighter tank, made by BAE Systems Hägglunds, is said to be cheaper than traditional main battle tanks but the exact finances are murky.
NATO launches Baltic patrol mission, eyes standard for detaining ships
The operation, dubbed “Baltic Sentry,” will dispatch national contributions as well as joint assets to the strategically located body of water.
Sweden joins NATO push to boost Baltic Sea naval presence
The Swedish military will also contribute one of its ASC 890 surveillance aircraft, made by Saab, and the country’s coast guard will deploy four ships.
Denmark flies home more F-35s for patrols to buffer upgrade delays
Denmark has a total 27 aircraft on order, and the plan is for the F-35 to gradually take over all the tasks from the F-16s in coming years.
