Czech Republic has ordered 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks — deliveries will begin in 2028

1.34 billion euros for the latest tanks from Germany

The Czech Republic has officially signed a contract for the supply of 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks. The deal is worth about 1.34 billion euros. The agreement was signed between the Czech Ministry of Defense, the Federal Armaments Department of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and the manufacturer, KNDS Deutschland. This is one of the Czech Republic's largest defense orders in recent years and an important step in modernizing its ground forces.

Now the Czech army will have the most modern German armor.

Why Leopard 2A8 — and what it gives to the Czech Republic

Leopard 2A8 is the flagship version of the legendary tank, combining powerful protection, precise weapons and a new generation of digital "stuffing". It is compatible with NATO systems, easily integrated into common operations and maintained on a single logistics base with other countries of the bloc.

For the Czech Republic, this means: not just new tanks, but reaching the level of advanced European armies. Joint exercises, common tactics, common maintenance — everything works like clockwork.

Option for 14 additional machines — safety margin

The contract stipulates an option for the purchase of 14 more tanks. This is standard practice.: first, the main order, and then the decision on whether to expand the fleet. If the situation escalates or there is a need for a reinforced group, the Czech Republic will be able to quickly increase the number of combat vehicles without negotiations and new tenders.

This is not just a reserve, it is a strategic flexibility.

Deliveries from 2028 will take a long time, but inevitably

The first tanks will arrive in the Czech Republic no earlier than 2028. The time frame seems long, but you can't speed up the production of such complex systems. But you can be sure: each Leopard 2A8 will be assembled according to the latest requirements and checked before shipment.

For the army, this time is a chance to train crews, rebuild the infrastructure and bring the rear to the level of a new technical structure.

Sources

1. RIA Novosti — 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks for CZK 34.2 bn, deliveries 2028-2031
2. Amalantra.ru — Price & spec details: EuroTrophy APS, Czech-specific kit
3. RIA Novosti — Czech Government approves purchase, integration timeline
4. Gazeta.ru — Contract value & strategic importance for Czech Army
5. Interfax — Deal confirmed, option for further tank expansion
6. Euronews — Prague green-lights €1.4 bn order of 44 Leopard tanks from Germany

The US Army is looking for contractors for the new Abrams M1E3 tank — production will be large-scale

What is changing in the new Abrams M1E3

The US Army has officially moved on to the next stage of creating the next—generation main battle tank, the Abrams M1E3. Instead of just updating old models, the military is now looking for industrial facilities capable of mass production. This means that we are not talking about dozens of cars, but hundreds. And not about another upgrade, but about a system that will differ in architecture, energy, and capabilities.

The new tank should be lighter, faster, with a powerful electrical network to pull lasers, active protection, and AI systems.

Who will be able to supply — and what is expected of him

The request has already been posted in the federal system through the office of PEO GCS (Program Contractor for Ground Combat Systems). Companies that want to participate must confirm their experience in the production of tracked combat vehicles — not just assembly, but a full cycle: from the hulls to the transmission and turrets.

General Dynamics (the creator of Abrams) and BAE Systems remain the main players, but now other manufacturers can join them. The main thing is to be ready for scale. The army doesn't want delays, as it did with other programs.

Why is it more important than just updating

M1E3 is not just a new version. This is an attempt to change the very logic of tank forces. Instead of driving more and more armor, the emphasis is on survivability: active protection, electronic suppression, optical masking. The new generation electrical system will allow for the installation of lasers and powerful radars in the future.

Another focus is maintainability. In a real battle, a tank must recover quickly on the field, rather than going to the rear for months.

What kind of tank will the army have in 10 years?

If all goes according to plan, the first M1E3S will enter service in the late 2020s. They will replace the obsolete M1A1 and partially replace the M1A2. The main goal is not just to keep up with Russian and Chinese tanks, but to stay ahead of them in terms of flexibility and adaptability.

The US Army understands that the future does not belong to heavy monsters, but to smart, resilient and quickly adaptable machines. And the Abrams M1E3 is the first step in this direction.

Sources

1. Topwar.ru — M1E3 project after SEPv4 cancellation
2. Calibre Defence — U.S. Army 30-month fielding plan for the M1E3 upgrade
3. Overclockers.ru — PEO GCS seeks industry partners with tank-production experience for M1E3
4. HigherGov — official PEO GCS market-research announcement
5. Telegram “btvt2019” — additional commentary
6. VK post — community discussion
7. Dzen article — further analysis

Turkey completes development of Altay tank: first deliveries are scheduled for 2025

17 years of development: the path to a domestic tank

The Turkish company BMC has announced the completion of key stages in the development of the Altay main battle tank. After almost two decades — since the launch of the project in 2008 — and numerous delays related to technological and supply difficulties, it is expected that the first production tanks will enter service with the Turkish army in 2025. This will be a crucial step in the implementation of the national program for the creation of fully domestic heavy armored weapons.

Altay T1 with South Korean engine is the first stage of deliveries

According to information from BMC, the first 85 of the 250 tanks ordered will be produced in the Altay T1 modification. An important feature of this version is the use of a South Korean MTU engine licensed and adapted for operating conditions in Turkey. Previously, the development of its own engine caused delays, and the transition to a proven foreign power plant made it possible to accelerate the tank's entry onto the conveyor.

The tank is equipped with a modern fire control system, active protection, digital architecture and armor, providing high survivability on the battlefield.

BMC and the strategic goal of import substitution

The development and production of Altay is part of Turkey's large—scale strategy to reduce dependence on foreign arms suppliers. As a leading contractor, BMC strives not only to meet domestic needs, but also to strengthen its position in the international market.

The successful deployment of Altay will confirm the Turkish defense industry's ability to implement complex projects in the field of heavy armored vehicles.

Export potential and future upgrades

In addition to supplies to the Turkish army, an export version of the tank, the Altay MK3, is planned, aimed at the countries of the Middle East, Africa and Asia. In the future, the company is working on a modification of the T2 with a fully Turkish engine and an improved electronics system, which will make the tank even more autonomous and competitive.

The implementation of the Altay project marks Turkey's transition from assembly to full-fledged design and production of modern combat platforms.

China unveils new HQ-29 missile defense system: rumors confirmed at parade rehearsals

The first public appearance of the HQ-29

Rumors and analytical assumptions about the new Chinese missile defense system (ABM) have received visible confirmation. During rehearsals for the upcoming military parade in Beijing, transporters with missile containers identified as belonging to the HQ-29 system were seen for the first time. This was the first official visual confirmation of the existence of this development, previously known only from fragmentary data and discussions on Chinese social networks.

The appearance of the HQ-29 on parade training signals the completion of key test stages and readiness for public demonstration.

Analysis of the conveyor and rocket containers

A week ago, photos of a six-axle conveyor-installer transporting two large rocket containers by rail appeared on the Internet. The design of the chassis and the dimensions of the containers indicate the use of a mobile launch system capable of rapid deployment and relocation, a key advantage in modern strategic defense.

The size of the missiles suggests that the HQ-29 is designed to intercept ballistic targets at medium and possibly long range, including targets in the middle section of the trajectory.

Possible characteristics and role in the missile defense system

Although there is no official data on the HQ-29, experts believe that the system can become part of China's multi-layered missile defense, complementing the existing HQ-9 and HQ-19 complexes. It is assumed that the HQ-29 has increased speed, range and the ability to intercept targets with maneuvering warheads.

Its appearance may indicate China's transition to a more active interception strategy, including the ability to counter hypersonic threats and low-profile targets.

Strategic importance for Chinese defense

The integration of the HQ-29 into the air defense and missile defense forces will strengthen China's ability to repel missile attacks, especially in the face of growing tensions in the region. The demonstration of the new system at the parade is not only a demonstration of technological progress to an internal audience, but also a signal to external strategic players about the growth of the country's defense capability.

The development of its own missile defense systems allows Beijing to reduce dependence on external security scenarios and strengthen independent strategic stability.

The Pentagon uses the border with Mexico as a testing ground for new surveillance technologies

Deployment of surveillance systems by August 2025

By mid-August 2025, the Pentagon has completed the large-scale deployment of advanced surveillance systems along the border between the United States and Mexico. This major technological upgrade includes the integration of optical towers, seismic and acoustic sensors, as well as wearable digital devices for border guards. The goal is to increase the effectiveness of detecting and responding to illegal border crossings in real time.

The initiative demonstrates how internal security tasks are increasingly becoming a platform for testing defense technologies being developed for use in combat.

New generation technologies: from towers to augmented reality

Highly sensitive optical towers with 360-degree viewing capabilities, thermal and infrared vision, as well as automatic recognition systems for moving objects have already been installed at the border. They are complemented by a network of sensors capable of detecting vibrations from footsteps, vehicles, and even armored vehicles.

Special attention is paid to augmented reality (AR) systems, which are integrated into glasses and tablets of the border guard service. These devices overlay digital data — the location of targets, terrain, patrol routes — directly into the operator's field of view, which significantly speeds up decision-making.

The border as a testing ground for military innovations

Analysts note that the southern border of the United States is increasingly being used as a real testing ground for technologies that may be used in combat zones in the future. The conditions — rugged terrain, extreme weather events, and high staff workload — are ideal for testing the reliability and effectiveness of new systems.

In addition, deployment takes place in near-operational conditions: there are real threats, mobile targets, and the need for rapid response. This allows the Pentagon to collect valuable data on hardware and software performance in real-world scenarios.

Statistical significance for the modernization of the army

The project is important not only for border security, but also for the overall modernization of the US Army. Technologies developed at the border can be adapted for use in military bases, conflict zones, and territorial control operations.

The integration of wearable digital systems and AR solutions, in particular, fits into a broader strategy for creating a "connected fighter of the future" - a soldier connected to a single network infrastructure and equipped with enhanced perception and analysis capabilities.

China is developing a high-speed helicopter similar to the American Sikorsky S-97 Raider

New development: The Chinese response to the S-97 Raider

China, according to military analysts, is developing a new high-speed helicopter, the design of which strikingly resembles the American Sikorsky S-97 Raider. Despite the lack of official statements from the Chinese defense departments, the images and data about the project that have appeared indicate significant progress in creating a new-generation attack helicopter capable of reaching speeds significantly higher than those of traditional machines.

Comparison with the Sikorsky S-97 Raider

The American S-97 Raider is an experimental reconnaissance and attack helicopter with coaxial rotors and a pusher propeller in the tail section. This arrangement allows you to reach speeds of over 440 km / h, which is almost one and a half times higher than the capabilities of classic helicopters.

The Chinese prototype demonstrates a similar aerodynamic design.:

Coaxial screws (two main screws on the same axis, rotating in opposite directions);

Pusher propeller in the tail fin for additional thrust at cruising speeds;

Swept fuselage with narrow cabin, optimized to reduce drag.

This arrangement eliminates the need for a tail rotor and avoids the speed limitation effect associated with the shock wave on the rotor blades.

Technological challenges and achievements

The creation of helicopters with a coaxial circuit requires a high level of engineering training, especially in the field of:

Complex transmission control;

Vibration stabilization;

Aerodynamic control in transient flight modes.

The successful development of such a device indicates that Chinese engineers have mastered key technologies in the field of high-speed rotary aircraft. This may be part of a broader program to modernize the PLA's Aerospace Forces, aimed at increasing mobility and strike power.

Possible combat missions

If the helicopter is adopted, it is likely to be used in the following roles:

Reconnaissance and surveillance deep in enemy territory;

Strike operations against mobile and highly secure targets;

Special Operations — fast delivery and evacuation of special forces;

Escort for transport helicopters in anti-air defense conditions.

Its high speed and maneuverability make it especially valuable in a modern battlefield where reaction time is critical.

Geopolitical significance

The appearance of such a device in the Chinese arsenal strengthens the technological rivalry with the United States in the field of military aviation. Although the S-97 Raider has not yet been adopted by the US army, China may seek to get ahead of the deployment of such systems, especially in regions such as the Taiwan Strait or the South China Sea.

The latest armored vehicles have been delivered to Beijing to participate in the military parade

The latest armored vehicles have arrived in the capital of China, Beijing, which will be publicly presented for the first time at the upcoming military parade. The event is timed to coincide with an important state date and will demonstrate the level of development of the country's military-industrial complex.

The vehicles shown will include a new main battle tank, a modern armored personnel carrier and an infantry fighting vehicle. These samples reflect the latest achievements of Chinese defense production in the field of mobility, protection, firepower and digitalization of combat systems.

The exact names and models of the equipment have not yet been officially announced, but experts note that the new items are likely to be equipped with improved fire control systems, active protection, and integrated into a common network of intelligence and command and control. This makes it possible to increase the effectiveness of interaction between units in real combat conditions.

The display of new armored vehicles at the parade is traditionally seen as a signal of technological progress and increased combat readiness of the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA). Such events emphasize the country's policy of modernizing the armed forces and strengthening its defense capability.

South Korea is testing ballistic missiles for KF-21 fighter jets

South Korea is actively working on the development of air-launched ballistic missiles, which has become part of a large-scale program to strengthen its strike aircraft. The goal of the development is to be able to deliver precision air strikes against strategically important targets.

In parallel, work is underway on specialized weapons designed to destroy the enemy's energy infrastructure. Such weapons can be used to disable key energy supply facilities, which reduces the combat capability of enemy forces.

Special attention is being paid to the integration of the new missile with the fifth-generation multirole fighter KF-21 Boramae, being developed by South Korean engineers. If the tests are successfully completed, the missile can be installed on board these aircraft, significantly expanding their combat capabilities.

The implementation of the program will strengthen South Korea's strategic defense power and enhance its ability to respond to threats on the Korean peninsula.

The Czech Republic will receive the first CV90 infantry fighting vehicle on August 28 at a ceremony in Sweden

The first CV90 infantry fighting vehicle for the Czech Republic will be officially delivered on August 28. The ceremony will take place at the production site of BAE Systems Hägglunds in the Swedish city of Ernskoldsvik.

The event will be held in the presence of Czech Defense Minister Jana Chernokhova and Swedish Defense Minister Paul Johnson. The ceremony will also be attended by the heads and specialists of the design and production teams of BAE Systems Hägglunds, who participated in the implementation of the contract.

The delivery of the first vehicle marks an important milestone in the agreement between the Czech Republic and BAE Systems for the supply of 249 CV90 infantry fighting vehicles. This contract is part of a large-scale modernization program for the Czech Army's ground forces.

American armored cars will get smart and drone protection: BAE Systems is racing for the future of war

American military vehicles will soon become smarter, faster and more dangerous — and all this not at the expense of a larger caliber, but thanks to new technologies. BAE Systems, one of the main suppliers of US military equipment, is actively modernizing the armored multipurpose vehicle (AMPV) — and it is doing it on a grand scale.

The bottom line is this: instead of just carrying soldiers or shooting, the new AMPVS will have autonomous systems capable of helping the crew make decisions, as well as protection from enemy drones — because today one small quadcopter can drop a grenade directly on armored vehicles. And this is no joke.

BAE Systems is investing serious money to turn AMPV into a real "smart platform" — a kind of tank of the future on tracks. The plans include the integration of advanced defense and attack systems that will allow vehicles to stay ahead of the enemy on the battlefield: react faster, see the enemy better and survive in an environment where drones and electronic warfare rule the ball.

As Bill Sheehy, BAE's head of ground technology, said: "AMPV is the proving ground for the future of tracked combat vehicles." That is, what is currently being tested on this armor will appear in dozens of other vehicles tomorrow.

Simply put, war is no longer just about bullets and steel. Artificial intelligence, autonomy, and drone protection are now important. And AMPV is becoming one of the first "digital soldiers" on wheels — or, more precisely, on tracks.

Production of the first Stryker 8x8 armored vehicles for the Bulgarian Ground Forces in the USA has begun — in accordance with the contract of 2023

 The production of the first Stryker 8x8 armored combat vehicles for the Bulgarian Ground Forces has officially begun in the United States and is proceeding according to contractual deadlines. This was confirmed by Brigadier General Stoyan Shopov, Chief of Staff of the Bulgarian Ground Forces. The purchase is regulated by the agreement on the supply of foreign military equipment (FMS), signed in 2023. It provides for the supply of 183 Stryker vehicles of various combat and auxiliary configurations, as well as 15 additional auxiliary platforms. The total cost of the program exceeds 1.376 billion US dollars, payment is made in tranches, the first of which was carried out in 2024 and included the purchase of modern ammunition, including 30 mm shells and anti-tank ammunition.

The first machines are expected in Bulgaria by the end of September 2025, followed by further refinement, configuration and integration of systems at the TEREM-Ivaylo plant in Veliko Tarnovo, which is being expanded to create a maintenance center and local production of components. The contract includes conditions for technology transfer and the development of the national defense industry.

Stryker infantry fighting vehicles are built on the basis of an 8x8 chassis with a Caterpillar diesel engine with a capacity of 350 hp, a maximum speed of up to 100 km/h and a power reserve of about 530 km. The Bulgarian vehicles will be equipped with an uninhabited Kongsberg MCT-30 turret with a 30 mm XM813 cannon, a 7.62mm machine gun, and possibly Javelin anti-tank missiles on some variants. The crew is protected by a double V-shaped bottom and armor according to the NATO standard STANAG 4569 level 4. The vehicle is integrated into modern command and control systems with digital communication channels and high mobility.

Overall, this project represents a significant step in the modernization of the Bulgarian ground forces, replacing outdated Soviet equipment and increasing compatibility with NATO in terms of technical and operational performance.

Stryker 8x8

The first British Boxer has arrived: the army has received a new combat vehicle assembled directly in the UK

 The British Army officially received the first Boxer armored vehicle, which was completely manufactured in the UK itself. Previously, these machines were assembled in Germany, but now production has been moved to the Rheinmetall BAE Systems Land (RBSL) plant in Telford — and this is a major breakthrough. Why? Because this is not just a new technique, but part of one of the largest modernization programs of the army in recent years.  

Now the Boxer is already in Bovington, where the crews are being trained. Now it will be used as a training platform: soldiers will learn how to operate, maintain and understand how this powerful eight-wheeled vehicle works. And, by the way, it is 8x8 — that is, all eight wheels are driving, which gives excellent cross-country ability on any off-road.  

Boxer is not just an armored personnel carrier. It is modular: today it is infantry, tomorrow it is a command post or medical evacuation. The main thing is that it will become the basis of a new, more mobile and secure army. So it's not just the supply of equipment. This is the beginning of a new era for the British ground forces.

Polish tankers are mastering new technologies: training in the assembly of FPV drones in the 1st Warsaw Armored Brigade

As part of the modernization of military training and improving the combat effectiveness of units, the 1st Warsaw Armored Brigade has implemented an innovative training program dedicated to the use of FPV drones (First Person View). Special attention in this program is paid not only to piloting drones, but also to their  self-assembly, configuration and repair, which allows soldiers to gain a full cycle of knowledge for effective use of UAVs in combat conditions.

FPV drones are unmanned aerial vehicles that allow the operator to see the camera image in real time, making them extremely effective for reconnaissance, fire correction, and even strike operations. Their widespread use in modern local conflicts requires new approaches from armies to the training and preparation of personnel. The Polish military is actively implementing such practices to meet modern warfare requirements.

During the course, soldiers are trained to work with various drone components, including engines, speed controls, flight controllers, video transmitters and antennas. Special attention is also paid to the practical assembly and testing of devices in the field. Such comprehensive training allows not only to use drones more efficiently, but also to quickly repair them after damage, which is especially important in conditions of constant enemy opposition.

This training has become part of a broader strategy for the modernization of the Polish Armed Forces, which involves the deep integration of unmanned systems into the command and combat use structure of all branches of the armed forces. Poland has already demonstrated interest in developing its own drone sector, as well as in acquiring experience in this area from other countries, including through international cooperation programs.

Latvia has signed a contract for the supply of 42 HUNTER infantry fighting vehicles worth €387 million, strengthening cooperation with GDELS

 The Latvian Ministry of Defense has signed a contract with General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) for the supply of 42 additional HUNTER infantry fighting vehicles, the latest version of the ASCOD platform. The total value of the agreement is €387 million ($453 million), including VAT.

Key points of the contract:

- The HUNTER machine is recognized as a key element of Latvia's defense strategy.

- The infantry fighting vehicle will provide the National Armed Forces with advanced combat capabilities and high mobility.

- The contract strengthens Latvia's partnership with GDELS and contributes to the modernization of the country's ground forces.

- The supply of new vehicles will significantly increase the combat capability and operational readiness of the Latvian army.

In the face of growing challenges in the region, expanding the fleet of modern infantry fighting vehicles is an important step to ensure national security and support collective defense within the framework of NATO. HUNTER combines modern technologies of protection, firepower and mobility, which makes it an effective tool in modern combat conditions.

China demonstrates the power of the DF-5B intercontinental missile

 On June 3, 2025, China publicly demonstrated the combat capabilities of its DF-5B intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM), a key component of the country's strategic nuclear deterrent. With a claimed flight range of 12,000 km and a payload estimated at 3-4 megatons of TNT, the DF-5B is capable of causing catastrophic destruction to any enemy. Its power is many times greater than that of the atomic bombs used in World War II, which positions the DF-5B as one of the most powerful weapons currently known in China's missile arsenal. The official disclosure is seen as part of a broader effort by Beijing to project confidence in its efforts to modernize the military and deter potential threats.

DF-5B

BAE Systems unveiled the CV90 combat vehicle at DEFEA 2025 in Athens

 

CV90

At the international defense exhibition DEFEA 2025, which took place from May 6 to May 8, 2025 at the Metropolitan Expo exhibition center in Athens, BAE Systems presented a wide range of solutions for land, sea and air forces.  

One of the key exhibits was a model of armored vehicles, the CV90 infantry fighting vehicle, which demonstrates advanced technologies and combat capabilities in demand in modern conditions. BAE Systems' participation in the exhibition highlights its strategic cooperation with Greece and other allies to modernize the armed forces and enhance the region's defense capabilities.  

The presence of the CV90 at DEFEA 2025 is particularly relevant in the context of Greece's plans to upgrade its fleet of armored vehicles. The country is actively working on army modernization programs, including the purchase of modern infantry fighting vehicles, which makes such events an important platform for evaluating possible technological partners.  

The DEFEA 2025 exhibition brought together the world's leading defense industry players from Europe, North America, the Middle East and Asia, becoming a significant event for establishing new contacts, demonstrating innovations and strengthening international military-technical cooperation.  

The US Army is abandoning the MQ-1C Gray Eagle drones in favor of advanced technology

 MQ-1C Gray Eagle

The US Army has announced the termination of purchases of MQ-1C Gray Eagle unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), calling them "outdated, redundant and ineffective" in the context of modern warfare. This decision was part of a massive overhaul of the army's equipping program aimed at introducing more advanced technologies to meet the demands of future conflicts.

Reasons for abandoning the MQ-1C Gray Eagle

The MQ-1C Gray Eagle was one of the US Army's key UAVs used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and strikes. However, with the development of technology, this drone has become inferior to modern systems, especially in the face of confrontation with high-tech opponents such as China or Russia. The main reasons for failure include:

- Outdated technology: Gray Eagle no longer meets the requirements of modern warfare, where speed, stealth, and autonomy are important.

 - Redundancy: The Army seeks to optimize its resources by eliminating platforms that duplicate the functions of other systems.

- Inefficiency: The drone is poorly adapted to modern threats such as enemy air defense systems and electronic warfare.

New direction: advanced technology

The termination of purchases of the MQ-1C coincides with the efforts of the US Army to introduce new, more advanced UAVs. These systems will have improved autonomy, artificial intelligence capabilities, and increased resistance to interference. In particular, the army is focusing on developing drones capable of performing tasks in difficult conditions of confrontation in the air and on the ground.

By the way, this announcement coincided with the recent PC-C5 exercises, where the MQ-1C Gray Eagle still played an important role. However, his participation was a kind of farewell chord, emphasizing the need to move to more modern solutions.

What do the experts say?

The US Army's decision has sparked widespread discussion among military analysts. Some experts support the move to abandon outdated systems, considering it logical in the context of a technology race. Others, however, point out that the Gray Eagle can still be useful in less complex missions, such as fighting terrorism or supporting operations in regions with limited enemy capabilities.

Nevertheless, most agree that the transition to new technologies is an inevitable step to maintain U.S. superiority on the battlefield.

The future of unmanned systems in the US Army

The abandonment of the MQ-1C Gray Eagle marks the beginning of a new era in the development of unmanned systems. The US Army is actively investing in projects related to autonomous UAVs capable of interacting with manned aircraft and ground forces. These systems will play a key role in network-centric warfare, providing real-time data collection, targeting and destruction of targets.

The termination of purchases of the MQ-1C Gray Eagle demonstrates the determination of the US Army to modernize its forces and focus on advanced technologies. Although this drone has played an important role in past operations, its time is coming to an end. The future belongs to more advanced unmanned systems that can operate effectively in high-intensity conflict situations.

Germany becomes the leader of military spending in Europe

 

Soldiers of the Bundeswehr

Last year, for the first time since the end of the cold War, Germany topped the list of European countries with the largest defense spending, spending heavily on modernizing its armed forces. This is reported by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) in its annual report on military expenditures of countries around the world.

According to SIPRI, German military spending in 2023 reached €77.8 billion ($88.5 billion). This allowed the country to overtake the UK, which previously held a leading position in Europe, spending $81.8 billion on defense. Thus, Germany became the largest spending state in Europe and ranked fourth in the world after the United States, China and Russia.

The sharp increase in German defense spending is linked to geopolitical tensions and the desire to strengthen its military capabilities. In recent years, the country has significantly increased financing for the purchase of modern weapons, including tanks, aircraft and air defense systems, as well as modernized existing military structures.

Experts attribute this move to a change in Germany's national security strategy amid growing threats in Europe. After the outbreak of the conflict in Ukraine, Berlin declared the need to strengthen the country's defense capability and intensified cooperation with its NATO allies. This has led to large-scale investments in the defense industry and the development of new technologies.

In addition, Germany is striving to fulfill its obligations to NATO, according to which the alliance's member countries must allocate at least 2% of their GDP to defense. The increased costs allow Berlin to meet these requirements and maintain stability in the region.

The growth of German military spending is causing contradictory reactions. On the one hand, it underlines the country's determination to defend its interests and strengthen Europe's security. On the other hand, such steps may provoke new unrest among neighboring States and increase tensions in the region.

Nevertheless, experts point out that the increase in Germany's defense budget is part of a global trend towards increasing military capacity. In the face of growing instability, countries around the world are striving to modernize their armies and provide protection from external threats.

Germany's leadership in military spending symbolizes its resurgent role as a key player in European security. It also demonstrates the country's willingness to take on greater responsibility for the region's defense. However, the question of how these changes will affect the future of Europe remains open.

The German Army is testing the AGF 2 reconnaissance and combat vehicle in collaboration with Kommando Spezialkräfte in Texas

Modifications of the AGF 2 reconnaissance and combat vehicle

The German Army, together with the elite special forces unit Kommando Spezialkräfte (KSK), conducted tests of the AGF 2 reconnaissance and combat vehicle in El Paso, Texas. These tests have become an important stage in evaluating the capabilities of the new platform, which is considered as a potential addition to the Bundeswehr arsenal. The main goal was to check the machine's compliance with the requirements of the troops and its performance in difficult climatic conditions.

The tests took place in realistic conditions of the hot and dry climate typical of the El Paso region. Such conditions are especially important for testing the reliability of equipment that must function effectively in various geographical areas. Representatives of the Bundeswehr procurement authority and KSK fighters participated in the testing, which made it possible to evaluate the car not only from a technical, but also from a practical point of view.

The AGF 2 is a modern reconnaissance and combat vehicle designed to perform a wide range of tasks, including reconnaissance, patrolling and support of ground operations. The machine is equipped with advanced surveillance, communication and protection systems, which makes it a universal tool for modern armed forces.

KSK's involvement played a key role in the trials. This special forces unit is known for its high level of training and experience in performing complex tasks in various conditions. The evaluation of the machine by elite fighters allowed us to obtain valuable data on its performance in conditions as close as possible to real combat scenarios.

If the AGF 2 successfully passes all the evaluation stages, it can become an important element of the modernization of the German army. The new platform will improve the mobility, security and effectiveness of troops on the battlefield. In addition, the successful introduction of the machine will strengthen the position of the German defense sector at the international level.

Experts note that the tests in the United States emphasize the importance of international cooperation in the field of defense. Joint exercises and equipment testing allow countries to share experiences and technologies, which contributes to the development of the defense capability of the entire NATO.

The tests are scheduled to be completed in the coming months. Based on their results, a decision will be made on the future of AGF 2. If approved, the vehicle could be integrated into the German army in the coming years. This will be an important step in strengthening the defense capabilities of Germany and its allies.

The Netherlands has announced a large-scale modernization of the armed forces: 17 key projects for the coming years

 

Dutch soldiers on training exercises

The Dutch Ministry of Defense has submitted to Parliament a "letter A" outlining plans to equip the country's armed forces in the coming years. The document provides for the implementation of 17 projects aimed at modernizing the army, with total expenditures of at least 1.45 billion euros (1.65 billion US dollars). These initiatives cover a wide range of areas, from the purchase of anti-torpedo torpedoes to the replacement of standard assault rifles and the equipping of a heavy infantry brigade with tracked armored vehicles.

One of the key projects will be the purchase of anti-torpedo torpedoes designed to protect Dutch Navy ships from underwater threats. These systems are expected to be operational by 2029, which will significantly enhance the fleet's anti-submarine defense capabilities.

Another important step will be to replace the assault rifles currently in service with the army. This solution is designed to provide military personnel with modern weapons that meet current requirements for accuracy, reliability and ergonomics. The transition to the new model will begin this decade.

The third significant project is related to equipping the heavy infantry brigade with tracked armored vehicles of general purpose. These vehicles will be used to perform a wide range of tasks, including troop transportation, reconnaissance, and combat support. They will enhance the mobility and security of units operating in difficult conditions.

The total costs for all 17 projects will amount to at least 1.45 billion euros, which is the lower end of the budget range for each of them. This highlights the Netherlands' commitment to investing in modern technology and equipment to enhance the army's combat capability. 

Such initiatives are aimed not only at strengthening national defense, but also at ensuring compatibility with NATO allies. Modern weapons and equipment will allow the Netherlands to participate more effectively in international missions and operations.

The modernization plans demonstrate the Netherlands' commitment to maintaining a high level of defense capability in the face of growing geopolitical challenges. The introduction of new weapons and equipment systems will allow the country to maintain its role as a reliable partner within the NATO alliance.

In addition, these projects will create new jobs and stimulate the development of the defense industry in the country. The successful implementation of the programs can also become an example for other States seeking to modernize their armed forces.

The Netherlands is steadily moving towards strengthening its armed forces through large-scale investments in modern technologies and equipment. The plans outlined in Letter A underscore the strategic importance of these initiatives to ensure the security of the country and its allies. The implementation of these projects will be an important stage in the development of the Dutch defense capability in the coming years.