Czech Republic to double tank fleet by purchasing 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks worth 1.3 billion euros

The Czech Republic has approved a major deal for the purchase of 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks from Germany. The initial contract, worth about 1.3 billion euros, including VAT, covers the supply of both command and combat vehicles. These tanks are equipped with modern logistics systems, integrated self-defense and mine protection systems, as well as a set of spare parts and technical documentation.

An additional 60 million euros were allocated for the so—called "Bohemization" of tanks, which includes the integration of Czech national features - C4ISTAR communication systems, camouflage elements, military identification marks and compatible machine guns.

Delivery of the first batch of tanks is expected in 2028, and completion of deliveries is scheduled for 2031. The contract also provides for the supply of ammunition for testing during this period.

In the future, the Czech Republic plans to expand the fleet to 61-77 Leopard 2A8 tanks, including repair and evacuation, bridge, engineering and training versions.

This step will significantly strengthen the defense capability of the Czech Republic and will allow it to provide a modern level of armament in the tank forces.

Lockheed Martin Expands Alabama Plant to Produce New Ballistic Interceptors

Lockheed Martin has decided to significantly expand its missile assembly facility on the territory of the old World War II military Air Corps in northern Alabama. Sarah Reeves, the company's vice president for the Next Generation Interceptor project and space programs, told the publication AL.com That a large factory with an area of about 88,000 square feet is being built is about like an entire football field!

It is planned to complete the construction by the beginning of next year. This facility will assemble the latest long—range ballistic missile interceptors called the Next Generation Interceptor, which is a defensive weapon for intercepting and destroying dangerous missiles in the air before they can reach their targets.

Such an expansion is important for improving the country's defense capability, and the Cortland site itself is a convenient historical place where military aircraft used to be based. Modern missiles will now be built at this site to help protect the United States and its allies from missile threats.

The US Air Force is preparing to use a complete replica of the Chinese HQ-22 anti-aircraft missile system for training

The US military will soon be able to train using a realistic replica of the Chinese HQ-22 anti-aircraft missile system. This training mockup was created by Torch Technologies in Huntsville, Alabama. It accurately mimics the appearance, radar signature, and behavior of real Chinese air defenses, which is very important for training pilots and operators in real combat conditions. 

Why is this necessary? In modern conflicts, enemies often use such advanced air defenses to shoot down planes and drones. Therefore, it is very useful for our troops to know how to recognize and effectively counter these threats. Such surrogate training goals help to work out protection against complex anti-aircraft systems without risking real equipment and without endangering living people.

By the way, the HQ-22 itself is a Chinese medium— and long-range anti-aircraft system with a range of up to 150-170 km and a target height of up to 27 km. It is capable of simultaneously launching missiles at multiple targets and is protected from electronic interference.

Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin want to build large-scale missile production in Europe together

 

The German company Rheinmetall and the American Lockheed Martin are planning to create a joint venture aimed at establishing large—scale production of missiles directly in Europe. Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger spoke about this in detail during a conference call on the results of the first quarter of 2025. He confirmed that Rheinmetall is going to hold a controlling stake in this new joint business.

The idea is to create a serious European center for the production of advanced missile systems in order to ensure stable supplies and not depend on external factors. Such an enterprise will help accelerate production, improve quality and strengthen Europe's defense capability in the face of growing threats.

Papperger noted that cooperation with Lockheed Martin is an important step, because the American partner has extensive experience and technology in the field of missile weapons. By combining resources and knowledge, companies will be able to work faster and more efficiently, creating modern solutions for NATO and partner countries.

Rheinmetall will retain control over the joint venture, which will allow it to direct the development of the project in line with the interests of European countries and maintain a high level of production. The launch of such a concern is part of Rheinmetall's global strategy to strengthen defense technologies and create reliable arms supply chains in Europe.

All this is happening against the background of an increasing demand for modern missile systems that require manufacturers to be highly technologically advanced and flexible. The Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin joint venture should become a key player in the market, capable of meeting European security needs for many years to come.

Japan and 9 countries train together to defend space: international space defense exercises in Australia

 

The Japan Air Self-Defense Forces took part in a large international command and staff training on space defense, which took place in Australia. It was attended by representatives of 10 countries, all with the common goal of strengthening friendship and cooperation in protecting space from threats.

The main idea of these exercises is to work out a joint response to any problems in space that may disrupt the operation of satellites, communications and navigation. During the training, the countries exchanged experiences and identified all the weaknesses in order to work as a single mechanism in the face of a real threat.

This is a very important event for Japan, because now space has become very complex and even dangerous — there are many satellites, and there is a risk that someone may use space for military or cyber purposes. By working together with other countries, solutions can be found and defended faster.

During the exercises, they worked out models of real threats: how to disrupt communications, how to protect themselves from cyber attacks on satellite control. Experts from various fields worked with the participants, from space surveillance to system protection.

Such cooperation is necessary now, because a lot depends on satellites in the army and in civilian life. The better countries are friends and help each other, the safer space and, in general, the planet becomes.

For Japan, participating in such events is a way to gain valuable experience working together and show everyone that it is a serious player in global security and is ready to protect our common interests together with its allies.

Denmark buys 129 Patria armored personnel carriers — deliveries began in 2025

Patria

Denmark is not sitting idly by and is actively modernizing its army. Recently, the country's Ministry of Defense announced a deal with the Finnish company Patria to supply 129 XA-300-series armored personnel carriers at once. This is a serious order — the first cars have already started arriving this year, and everything should be fully completed by the end of 2026. The amount of the transaction was not disclosed, but it is said that it is "hundreds of millions of euros."

Why is it so urgent?

It's all about the deteriorating situation in Europe, especially after the events in Ukraine and the rising tensions in the Baltic region. Because of this, Copenhagen has launched an emergency defense enhancement program. According to Defense Minister Trine Bramsen, the new armored cars will give the Danish troops the necessary mobility and protection to quickly transfer equipment between the islands and help NATO in the Baltic.

What is special about these APCs?

These are not just armored personnel carriers — they are real new generation vehicles.:

- Enhanced protection against mines and homing ammunition  

- 360-degree all-round view cameras  

- Modular design — you can quickly change the configuration: from troop transport to a medical center or command center 

First of all, the equipment is planned to be transferred to a new mechanized brigade, which is being formed at the base of the garrison in Holstebro.

Production and service are also in Denmark

The Finnish company Patria has agreed to localize part of the production in Denmark itself — they will make armored hulls and install communication systems. This will create up to 200 new jobs for qualified specialists.  

In addition, maintenance and deep modernization of equipment will be carried out on the territory of the FFI (Institute for Defense Research) in Copenhagen — that is, all logistics will be organized locally.

The Dutch Ministry of Defense is purchasing eight V-BAT drones for naval reconnaissance

Shield AI has announced an important step in the development of the capabilities of the Royal Netherlands Navy and the Marine Corps. The country's Defense ministry has acquired eight V-BAT unmanned aerial systems, which will be used to improve maritime intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) operations.

What is V-BAT?

The V-BAT is a unique drone with vertical takeoff and landing, capable of staying in the air for a long time and performing complex intelligence gathering tasks. Its versatility and autonomy make it an ideal tool for marine operations where fast response and high accuracy are important.

How will this help the Dutch Navy?

- Improved intelligence: V-BAT will provide more accurate and timely data on the situation at sea and on the coast.

- Enhanced surveillance capabilities: Drones will be able to operate in difficult conditions, ensuring constant control over important areas.

- Marine Corps Support: With its mobility and autonomy, V-BAT will provide operational support to Marine Corps units in the field.

France has opened the country's first space base in Toulouse for military operations in space

France has taken a historic step in developing its space capabilities by opening the country's first BA 101 space airbase in Toulouse. This base has become an important element of the expansion of the Commandement de l'Espace (CDE) program, the space operations command responsible for French military operations and the protection of national interests in space.

The significance of the opening of the BA 101 space base

- Military strategic development: The creation of a separate space base reflects the growing importance of outer space as a new theater of military operations, where France is seeking to strengthen its position.

- Support for the CDE program: The base will become a center for the management and coordination of space operations, including satellite monitoring, protection of space assets and countering threats from outer space.

- Technological leadership: Toulouse, as the center of the French aerospace industry, provides access to advanced technologies and qualified specialists.

The role of space operations in modern defense

- Protection of national satellites: Ensuring the safety of communications, navigation and reconnaissance satellites is becoming a priority for national security.

- Intelligence and surveillance: Space assets allow you to obtain important information about potential threats and respond promptly to them.

- Support for land and sea operations: Space infrastructure enhances the ability to coordinate and manage military operations in other theaters.

Prospects for the development of French space defense

- Infrastructure expansion: It is planned to further develop the base and create additional facilities to support growing tasks.

-International cooperation: France intends to strengthen cooperation with its NATO and European Union allies in the field of space security.

- Innovation and training: Special attention is paid to the development of new technologies and the training of specialists to work in outer space.

The opening of the BA 101 space base in Toulouse marks a new stage in the development of France's defense capabilities, underscoring the importance of space as a strategic area in modern security.

Rheinmetall and Denel Munition have signed the largest contract for the supply of 155 mm shells to a NATO country

 

The German defense concern Rheinmetall and its subsidiary Denel Munition have signed a multi-year contract for the supply of 155—mm artillery shells to a European NATO member country. The company officially announced this on Thursday, stressing that this order was the largest in the history of Rheinmetall Denel Municipalities.

Basic details of the contract

- Volume and cost: The contract is estimated at several hundred million euros, reflecting the scale and strategic importance of the agreement for both parties.

- Delivery dates: The supply of shells will begin in 2025 and will end with the final batch in 2027.

- Type of ammunition: We are talking about 155-mm artillery shells, which are the standard for modern self-propelled and towed artillery systems of NATO.

- Value for Rheinmetall Denel Munition: This is the largest order in the company's history, which demonstrates the high confidence in the products and production capabilities of the combined company.

The importance of the contract for European security

- Strengthening the defense capability: Large-scale supplies of modern ammunition will significantly increase the combat capability of the artillery units of the recipient country.

- Responding to modern challenges: Amid rising tensions in Europe and the increasing need for ammunition to support operations and resupply, such contracts are becoming critically important for NATO countries.

- Development of industrial cooperation: The agreement demonstrates the successful integration of European and South African defense technologies and production facilities.

Prospects and market impact

- Production growth: Rheinmetall and Denel Munition plan to expand production facilities to ensure timely order fulfillment.

- Long-term cooperation: The contract can become the basis for further agreements on the supply of ammunition and joint developments in the field of artillery systems.

- Impact on the arms market: Large orders of this scale strengthen Rheinmetall's position in the global ammunition market and strengthen the defense independence of European countries.

NAVAIR plans to sign a contract with Leonardo UK for the supply of up to 6,000 active single-use false targets for the F-35 and F-18

The US Navy Aviation Systems Command (NAVAIR) has announced its intention to negotiate and conclude a contract with the British company Leonardo UK for the supply of 3,000 to 6,000 Active Disposable Decoys (AED). These devices are designed to equip F-35 and F-18 fighter jets in order to increase their protection from enemy missiles and air defense systems.

Active false targets mimic the signature of aircraft and interfere with enemy guidance systems, distracting missiles and reducing the likelihood of hitting military equipment. The use of AED significantly increases the survival rate of manned fighters in modern air combat and sophisticated air defense.

The conclusion of this contract will allow the US Navy to strengthen the protection of its key combat platforms and increase the effectiveness of combat missions in various theaters of operations.

Poland has completed negotiations on the purchase of 180 South Korean K2 tanks worth about $6.5 billion

Poland has successfully completed negotiations with South Korea on the acquisition of 180 modern K2 main battle tanks. The total value of the transaction is estimated at about 6.5 billion dollars. This contract will be an important step in modernizing the Polish ground forces and strengthening the country's defense capability.

K2 tanks are characterized by high mobility, powerful armor protection and modern fire control systems, which will allow Poland to significantly increase the combat potential of its armed forces. Deliveries are expected to begin in the coming years and will be accompanied by technical support and training for Polish crews.

The UK will purchase 12 nuclear-capable F-35A fighter jets from the United States

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer will announce plans to purchase 12 F-35A fighter jets capable of carrying nuclear weapons from the United States at the upcoming NATO summit. This decision is aimed at strengthening the country's defense capability and increasing its contribution to the collective security of the alliance.

The fifth-generation F-35A fighters have advanced stealth technology, high maneuverability, and the ability to carry a wide range of weapons, including nuclear weapons. The purchase of these aircraft will allow the UK to modernize its fleet, replacing outdated models and increasing the level of deterrence of potential threats.

At the NATO summit, Prime Minister Starmer will call on the alliance's member states to increase their efforts to support collective defense and adapt to new security challenges, including growing tensions in various regions of the world. The United Kingdom is demonstrating an example of active participation in strengthening NATO's defense capabilities.

The Belgian government plans to purchase 10 NASAMS air defense batteries from the Norwegian company Kongsberg through the Netherlands.

 

The Belgian government has offered to purchase 10 NASAMS air defense batteries from the Norwegian manufacturer Kongsberg through the mediation of the Netherlands. The total value of the transaction is estimated at about 2.5 billion euros. Each battery will include four launchers. NASAMS is a medium—range mobile anti-aircraft missile system developed jointly by the Norwegian company Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace and the American Raytheon. The complex is designed to protect against various aerial threats, including airplanes, drones and cruise missiles, and is equipped with AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, AN/MPQ-64F1 Sentinel radar and optoelectronic sensors. The deal is aimed at filling Belgium's air defense system deficit, which previously relied on F-16 fighter jets for air defense. The acquisition of NASAMS will strengthen the protection of strategically important facilities, including the port of Antwerp, and enhance the country's defense capability in the face of growing tensions in Europe. Similar systems are used in a number of countries, including Norway, the USA, Finland, Spain and Ukraine.  

Sweden invests 9 billion kronor in IRIS-T air defense system to protect Gotland

On Monday, the Swedish government announced a major investment in strengthening its air defense capabilities. As part of this initiative, the country is acquiring a modern German-made IRIS-T air defense system worth 9 billion Swedish kronor (about 790 million euros).

Key points

- Official statement: Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson and Defense Minister Paul Jonson presented the details of the deal, emphasizing its strategic importance.

- The purpose of the acquisition is to strengthen the defense of the island of Gotland, a key region in the Baltic Sea that plays an important role in ensuring Sweden's security.

- Technical capabilities of IRIS-T: The system is capable of effectively intercepting modern aerial threats, including cruise missiles and drones, providing a high level of airspace protection.

The investments in IRIS-T reflect Sweden's desire to strengthen its defense capability against the backdrop of growing instability in the Baltic region and the increasing activity of the military forces of neighboring countries. It is also part of a broad program to modernize the country's armed forces.

The Pentagon is striving to create a military space Internet, but the project is still far from being realized

The US military aims to transform satellite communications into something similar to the Internet — flexible, fast and providing seamless compatibility between different networks. However, as Pentagon representatives stated at the MilSatcom USA industry conference, this long-planned military space Internet project is still in its early stages and is far from being fully implemented.

In the modern era, there are significantly more commercial satellites than military ones, which creates a unique ecosystem that the US Department of Defense seeks to use for its needs. The main goal is to integrate military and commercial satellite networks into a single, reliable and scalable communication system capable of providing rapid data exchange in any environment.

Despite ambitious plans, the creation of such a system requires solving many technical, organizational and political problems. Pentagon officials noted that significant efforts are needed to standardize protocols, ensure cybersecurity, and ensure compatibility of equipment from various manufacturers.

The successful implementation of the military space Internet will significantly improve the efficiency of communications on the battlefield, ensure the stability of communications in conflict and cyber attacks, and improve coordination between various units and allies.

The Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia approved the purchase of 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles

ASCOD

The Cabinet of Ministers of Latvia has decided to approve the proposal of the Ministry of Defense to purchase an additional 42 ASCOD infantry fighting vehicles. This step is aimed at strengthening the country's defense capability and modernizing the ground forces.

Features of ASCOD Combat Vehicles

- Origin and characteristics: ASCOD is a modern infantry fighting vehicle developed jointly by Austria and Spain. The machine is characterized by high mobility, crew protection and the ability to equip various types of weapons.

- Multifunctional: ASCOD can be used for infantry transportation, fire support, and reconnaissance missions.

- NATO compatibility: The vehicles fully comply with NATO standards, which is important for the integration of Latvian troops into the collective defense.

The purchase of additional infantry fighting vehicles will allow Latvia to increase the combat readiness and efficiency of its armed forces, as well as strengthen its position in the framework of regional security against the background of growing challenges in Eastern Europe.

Naval Group and Royal IHC have signed a contract for the construction of Orka-class submarines for the Dutch Navy

The French shipbuilding company Naval Group has officially announced the conclusion of a strategic contract with the Dutch company Royal IHC to support the construction of new Orka-class submarines for the Dutch Navy. This agreement was an important milestone in the implementation of the modernization program of the country's submarine fleet, aimed at replacing obsolete Walrus-class submarines.

 Features of the contract and cooperation

- Technological transfer: The Naval Group will ensure the transfer of advanced technologies and know-how to Royal IHC, which will create modern submarines tailored to the requirements of the Dutch Navy.

- Localization of production: A significant part of the work will be carried out in the Netherlands, which will support the national industry and create new jobs.

- Innovative solutions: The Orka class will be equipped with modern navigation, stealth and weapons systems, which will increase the fleet's combat capability and its compliance with NATO standards.

The contract with Naval Group and Royal IHC strengthens the defense potential of the Netherlands and contributes to the development of national shipbuilding. The new Orka-class submarines will allow the country's Navy to effectively carry out tasks of protecting maritime borders, participating in international operations and ensuring security in the North Sea and beyond.

It is expected that the first Orka-class submarines will be handed over to the fleet in the coming years, and the cooperation between the Naval Group and Royal IHC will be an example of successful integration of European defense technologies and industrial partnership.

The Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian may be commissioned by the end of the year

 Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian 

Chinese state media reported that the third Chinese aircraft carrier Fujian could be officially commissioned by the end of 2025. A military analyst who spoke on the national television channel CCTV noted that the recent sea trials were "very successful," which brings the ship closer to being commissioned into the Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy.

Features of the aircraft carrier Fujian

- Technological breakthrough: Fujian became the first Chinese aircraft carrier with an electromagnetic catapult, which allows launching heavier and more modern aircraft.

- Large-scale tests: Since launching in 2022, the aircraft carrier has undergone several stages of sea trials, including testing of control systems, navigation and aviation equipment.

- A symbol of military power: The commissioning of Fujian will strengthen China's position in the Asia-Pacific region and allow Beijing to more effectively project power over long distances.

According to experts, the appearance of the Fujian will significantly strengthen the capabilities of the Chinese navy, especially against the background of growing competition with the United States and its allies in the region. The new aircraft carrier is capable of carrying modern fighters, unmanned aerial vehicles and providing comprehensive support for amphibious and strike operations.

It is expected that by the end of 2025, the Fujian will be fully integrated into the fleet and begin regular exercises with other ships of the Chinese Navy. This event will mark an important milestone in the development of the Chinese navy and demonstrate the country's technological independence in the construction of large warships.

France and Spain accelerate purchases of Airbus A400M to support production of military transport aircraft

On June 17, 2025, Airbus announced that France and Spain had decided to accelerate the purchase of previously postponed Airbus A400M aircraft in order to support the long-term production prospects of this military transport aircraft. According to an Airbus statement, France will purchase four additional aircraft, while Spain will receive three aircraft ahead of schedule.

This step is aimed at ensuring a stable production level of eight aircraft per year until 2028, which will save jobs and support supply chains in the aviation industry. Jean-Brice Dumont, head of anti-aircraft programs at Airbus, stressed that accelerating deliveries is an important element of the strategy to support and develop the military transport fleet in Europe.

The Airbus A400M is a multifunctional transport aircraft capable of performing a wide range of tasks, from transporting troops and cargo to conducting humanitarian missions and refueling in the air. The acceleration of supplies will strengthen the defense capabilities of France and Spain, as well as increase the operational mobility of their armed forces.

Lockheed Martin has completed the delivery of the second F-16 Block 70 fighter for the Bulgarian Air Force

F-16 Block 70

Lockheed Martin has successfully completed the delivery of the second multirole fighter F-16 Block 70 for the Bulgarian Air Force. This delivery is part of a large-scale modernization program aimed at replacing obsolete Soviet MiG-29 fighters.

The new F-16 Block 70 are distinguished by modern technologies, improved avionics and increased combat effectiveness, which will significantly enhance the capabilities of the Bulgarian Air Force. The first fighter jet was delivered to Bulgaria in April 2025 and became a symbol of the strategic partnership between Bulgaria and the United States.

Under the first contract signed in 2019, Bulgaria received eight F-16 fighter jets, including six single-seat F-16C and two two-seat F-16D. The delivery of the second aircraft confirms the fulfillment of the schedule, despite delays caused by the pandemic and production nuances.

The Bulgarian Air Force plans to form a full-fledged squadron of F-16 Block 70 fighters by the end of 2025, which will significantly increase the country's defense capability and integration into NATO structures. In addition, in 2022, a second contract was signed for the supply of eight more fighters, which are scheduled to arrive in 2026-2027.

Bulgarian Prime Minister Rosen Zhelyazkov and Defense Minister Atanas Zapryanov noted the importance of this acquisition for national security and strengthening cooperation with the West. The modernization of the Bulgarian Air Force is seen as a key step in ensuring the sovereignty and protection of the country's airspace.