NATO shoots down drones for 2.8 million, 280 times more expensive than the drone itself

Drone for 10 thousand — rocket for 2.8 million

The recent incident over Poland has revealed a serious gap in NATO's defenses. According to The Guardian, Dutch F-35 fighter jets tried to intercept several "lost" Gerber-type drones. The problem is in one figure: one AIM-9X missile costs about $2.8 million. And the drone itself is about 10 thousand. That is, in one shot, as much is lost as is enough for 280 such drones.

It's like shooting sparrows with a cannon and missing.

The F-35 fired at the Gerberas and almost missed

Of the 20 drones trapped in Polish airspace, only 3-4 were shot down. The rest either fell on their own or went back. At the same time, fifth—generation fighters were used - the most expensive and technologically advanced machines in the NATO arsenal.

The fact that even the F-35 with high-precision missiles could not cope with the massive threat raises questions. Not because the pilots are bad, but because the system is not designed for such tasks.

Why is this a problem for the entire alliance

Now we are talking about random drones. But imagine if someone intentionally launches hundreds of cheap UAVs with explosives simulators or just to distract themselves. Every rocket launch is a huge expense. After a dozen such attacks, the air defense budget simply cannot stand it.

NATO is spending billions on technology, but has not yet solved the main issue: how to destroy cheap targets cheaply.

What should I do if the enemy throws cheap drones?

There is a way out. These are lasers, electromagnetic suppression, robotic guns like Phalanx, radio-controlled nets, and drone catchers. Or at least cheaper rockets and machine guns. The main thing is not to respond with a price 280 times more.

In the meantime, each such case reminds us that modern warfare requires not only powerful weapons, but also a reasonable economy.

Sources

1. EADaily — NATO F-35s shot down Gerbera drones over Poland with AIM-9X missiles: $10 k UAV vs $2.8 M missile, 280:1 cost ratio, low kill rate raises NATO strategy questions
2. United24Media — Dutch F-35s use AIM-9X to down Russian Gerbera drones above Poland; drone cost $10 k, missile $2.8 M
3. Alexander Anderson on X — Quick note on AIM-9X vs Gerbera drone cost ratio
4. Wikipedia — AIM-9X Sidewinder: unit cost ≈ $2.8 M, performance & operational use

Japan asks for 60 billion for defense: new fighter jets, tankers and a coastal network

How much and for what: the main budget items

Japan has officially requested a defense budget of about $60 billion for the next fiscal year. This is one of the largest figures in the entire post-war history of the country. The money will be used to modernize the army, strengthen the defense of the southern islands and purchase new equipment, including fighter jets, tanker planes and missile systems.

Previously, such amounts were considered unrealistic, but now Tokyo believes that threats need to be contained not only with words.

F-35 and KC-46: bet on compatibility with the USA

Additional F—35 fighter jets are among the main purchases. Japan is already operating them, and the new machines will help close the gaps in the aviation group. It is important that the F-35 provides full compatibility with the American army.: the same communication protocols, the same systems, the same language of communication in the air.

Another major order is the KC—46 tanker aircraft. Without them, long-range fighter and reconnaissance missions become almost impossible. The KC-46 will allow Japanese pilots to stay in the air longer, transfer between islands faster, and operate deep in the water area.

Coastal defense is not just a set of missiles

One of the key articles is the creation of a coastal defense network. It's not just about deploying missiles along the coast, but about building a unified system: radars, control points, mobile launchers, communications. All of this will work as a single organism.

Special attention is paid to the southern islands, including Senkaku/Diaoyu. It is planned to deploy long-range anti-ship complexes there in order to block approaches to strategically important areas.

Why now: Geopolitics and Internal changes

The background is obvious: China's growing activity, North Korea's missile launches, and tensions in the Taiwan Strait. Japan can no longer rely solely on the American wing. She needs her own strength— not for aggression, but to be heard.

At the same time, the very view of defense is changing in the country. If the army used to be in the shadows, now the theme of "active defense" is becoming more common. This does not mean that Japan is preparing for war. But she is preparing not to lose if something goes wrong.

The US Air Force has transferred tactical control of AI fighters for the first time: the Starsage system has been tested on the F-16, F/A-18 and F-35

Starsage system tests during joint exercises

In August 2025, the U.S. Air Force and Navy conducted groundbreaking tests of the Starsage tactical control system developed by Raft AI. During the large—scale joint exercises, the system was integrated into real fighters for the first time - the F-16, F/A-18 and F—35 - and provided pilots with tactical instructions that had previously been given only by ground air combat controllers.

This experiment was a crucial step towards integrating artificial intelligence into combat aviation control.

How AI replaces the ground controller

Traditionally, fighter pilots receive tactical instructions from ground-based air combat controllers during missions. They analyze data from radars, reconnaissance drones, and other sensors to determine where to go, where enemy aircraft are located, and what maneuvers to perform.

Starsage takes over this function: the system processes the data stream from all available sources in real time, builds a tactical picture and issues specific commands to the pilot — for example, "turn around 240 degrees", "accelerate" or "reset interference". At the same time, all processing takes place on board or at the nearest communication center, without delay.

Reduction of reaction time from minutes to seconds

According to the CEO of Raft AI, the Starsage system reduces the reaction time of pilots from a few minutes to just a few seconds. This is critically important in modern air combat, where the advantage is given to the one who makes decisions faster.

Artificial intelligence is able to analyze hundreds of parameters simultaneously — from the speed and altitude of targets to the electronic environment — and suggest optimal actions without overloading the pilot with information.

A step towards the network-centric warfare of the future

The Starsage test is part of the Pentagon's broader strategy to create a "network—centric" combat environment where all platforms — ground, air, sea, and space —exchange data in real time, and AI coordinates actions.

Starsage can become the basis for future "smart" command nodes that control not only individual fighters, but also groups of satellite drones operating in conjunction with manned aircraft.

Finland at the Atlantic Trident exercises: Rafale "shot down" the F-35, and this is not a shock — it's a tactic

Finland hosted large-scale NATO exercises with the United States, Great Britain and France for the first time

In June 2025, Finland for the first time became the site for the multinational Atlantic Trident air exercises conducted under the auspices of NATO. The Air Forces of the United States, Great Britain and France took part in the maneuvers, which emphasized the increased role of Helsinki in the alliance's collective defense system after its accession to NATO.

The exercises were aimed at working out the operational compatibility of the allied forces in conditions of high intensity of hostilities, including complex scenarios of air warfare, electronic warfare and the protection of strategic facilities in the Arctic region.

Symbolic episode: Rafale "defeated" the F-35 in close combat training

One of the most discussed moments of the exercises was an episode during which a French Dassault Rafale fighter jet conditionally "shot down" an American F-35A Lightning II at close range as part of a training air battle.

This incident, although it did not come as a surprise to experts, attracted widespread media and expert attention. It is important to understand that the F-35 did not "lose", but found itself in a scenario that goes beyond its basic combat philosophy.

Two Philosophies of aerial combat — F-35 vs Rafale

The event illustrates a fundamental difference in approaches to air combat:

The F-35 (USA) is a fifth—generation fighter designed for ultra-long-range warfare. Its key advantages are low visibility (stealth), an advanced sensor network, real—time data exchange, and the ability to strike with "first shot, first kill." The F-35 strives to keep the enemy out of close combat.

Rafale (France) is a 4++ generation fighter optimized for highly maneuverable close combat (dogfight). With excellent aerodynamics, powerful radar and MICA weapons, it remains one of the strongest in its class precisely in visual contact conditions.

Thus, Rafale's "victory" in close combat is not the defeat of the F-35, but a demonstration that each fighter is designed for its own role.

Implications for NATO and future operations

Such exercises are critically important for working out the interaction between different types of aircraft and tactical doctrines. Rafal's success in the training duel highlights the need for:

Joint use of stealth fighters and highly maneuverable platforms

Training pilots to operate in "non-ideal" scenarios

Maintaining a fleet of aircraft capable of operating under radar and communications suppression conditions

Finland, which has its own F/A-18s and plans to acquire F-35s in the future, has gained valuable experience integrating into allied structures and practicing complex air operations.

Elbit Systems is developing an aviation version of the Iron Beam laser system for Israeli fighter jets

Israel launches laser weapons into the air: Elbit is working on an aerial version of Iron Beam

The Israeli defense concern Elbit Systems has begun developing an aviation modification of the Iron Beam laser missile defense system. While the ground-based version of the system is already being tested as part of the Iron Dome ecosystem, its technology is now being adapted for installation on board Israeli Air Force combat aircraft.

This step marks the transition from ground-based laser systems to aerial platforms capable of protecting not only stationary objects, but also aircraft themselves from drones, missiles and other small-scale threats.

How does the Iron Beam work and why is it important to get it into the air

Iron Beam is a directed energy system that uses a high—power laser to destroy targets at short ranges. It is effective against:

Tactical Drones (UAV)

Rockets (like Qassam)

of Small cruise missiles

On the ground, the system complements Iron Dome radars and missiles, reducing the cost of interception. In the air, its task is to defend the fighter and protect a group of aircraft from drone attacks, especially in conditions of intense electronic warfare, where traditional means can be suppressed.

Possible platforms: F-16, F-15 and F-Although Elbit Systems does not officially disclose which aircraft will be equipped with the aerial Iron Beam, analysts suggest that potential carriers may be:

The F-16 Barak is the backbone of the Air Force fleet and is being actively upgraded

The F-15 Baz is a heavy fighter aircraft with high energy output

The F-35 Adir is a fifth—generation stealth fighter where compactness and stealth are critical.

For the F-35, laser integration is particularly relevant: it will allow maintaining low radar visibility without using external suspensions, and at the same time increase survivability in the face of growing threats from drones.

Technical challenges and prospects

Transferring a laser system to an aircraft is a difficult engineering task. She demands:

A compact but powerful laser module

Efficient cooling system

Reliable energy source

High-precision vibration and speed guidance system

However, advances in laser miniaturization and the development of solid-state systems make the project realistic. According to experts, the first tests on the pilot platform may begin as early as 2026-2027.

Mako Hypersonic Missile: Compact weapon for stealth fighters

The Mako hypersonic missile, first presented at the Sea Air Space 2024 exhibition, has become one of the most discussed innovations in the world of military technology. Developed by Lockheed Martin, this missile is capable of speeds up to Mach 5 and is designed for use from various aerial platforms, including the most advanced fighter jets.

Its compact size and modular design attract special attention. Due to these characteristics, Mako can be placed in the internal armament compartments of the F-22 Raptor and F-35 Lightning II stealth fighters. This is an important breakthrough — previously, hypersonic weapons, due to their large size, could only be mounted on external suspension units, which reduced the stealth of aircraft and limited their use.

The ability to integrate Mako into the compartments of stealth fighters allows them to maintain low radar visibility and at the same time provides a powerful long-range strike. This combination makes the missile extremely valuable for operations in conditions of high air defense density.

Mako's development comes amid an intensifying race of hypersonic technologies between the world's leading powers. This missile could be a turning point in U.S. strategy, expanding the capability for fast and accurate strikes over long distances and consolidating operational air superiority.

Switzerland may buy fewer F-35s due to rising costs and pressure on duties

Switzerland continues to consider the possibility of purchasing American fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets, but the volume of supplies may be revised. According to reports, the government of the country still supports the choice in favor of these aircraft, but amid rising costs and external pressure on the issue of duties, Defense Minister Martin Pfister admitted that Bern may purchase fewer machines than originally planned.

The initial plan called for the acquisition of 36 F-35A fighters to replace the outdated F/A-18 fleet. However, recently the discussion around the project has reached a new level — not only the total cost of the program is growing, but also the political tension associated with trade issues and the demands of the United States to protect its own industry.

Although the government's official position remains in support of the F-35 as the most suitable option in terms of combat performance and compatibility with allied forces, the issue of financial feasibility now requires a more thorough analysis. Possible reduction of the order is considered as one of the ways to keep the project within the budget.

A decision on the total number of aircraft to be purchased is expected after additional consultations and an assessment of all factors, including long-term operating costs and geopolitical risks.

The Israeli Air Force will receive an "air PBX" — new KC-46A tankers are on the way

Next year will be a turning point for Israeli aviation: The Israeli Air Force will finally receive its first KC-46A Pegasus tanker aircraft, which will dramatically expand its long-range flight capabilities. It's like putting a "gas station" on the wings — now Israeli fighter jets and reconnaissance aircraft will be able to fly further, longer and not depend on the nearest airfields.

The KC-46A is not just a large fuel tank. This is a high-tech machine from Boeing, capable of flying 11,830 kilometers without refueling and transferring up to 207,000 pounds of fuel (that's almost 94 tons!) to other aircraft. At the same time, it is compatible with more than 64 types of aircraft, including F-35, F-15, F-16 fighter jets and even refueling helicopters.

Why is this so important? Israel is a small country, but its military operations often extend far beyond the region. To fly, for example, to Iran or other remote targets, fighter jets critically need aerial refueling. Previously, this role was performed by outdated Re'em Israeli modifications of the Boeing 707, many of which are already over 60 years old. It's like trying to drive a dilapidated truck in a modern race.

The new KC-46A is a breakthrough. It is equipped with state—of-the-art systems, including television cameras for precise docking, anti-interference protection, and the ability to refuel multiple aircraft simultaneously, both with a rod hose and a drip hose.

The entire deal concluded with the US government is estimated at $ 930 million and provides for the supply of up to eight such aircraft. The first machines are already in production, and their appearance will dramatically enhance the strategic mobility of the Israeli Air Force.

Now Israeli pilots will not only be able to "make it out", but they will be able to act confidently and at a great distance. The KC-46A is not just a tanker. It's a combat power booster.

Lockheed Martin received 33.4 million to help Israel with the F-35 — all for the sake of the Block 4

Lockheed Martin has signed a new contract with the US Department of Defense in the amount of $ 33.4 million. The money will be used to support Israel's F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program, or rather, to help develop its most advanced version, known as Block 4.

What does it mean? The F-35 is not just an airplane, but a flying computer, and its capabilities are constantly being updated with new versions of hardware and, especially, software. Block 4 is the largest upgrade in the history of the program: it will add new combat functions, improve sensors, enhance combat communication between aircraft and other systems, and expand the arsenal of compatible weapons.

Israel, as one of the key international partners of the F-35 program, wants not just to fly these fighters, but to deeply integrate them into its own defense ecosystem. Therefore, some of the design and software work is carried out directly in Israel, with the participation of local engineers and defense companies. This contract is designed to support the second stage of the development and design of systems on Israeli territory.

Such localization is an important step. It gives Israel more control over technology, allows it to adapt the F-35 to its unique tasks (for example, countering enemy air defenses or operations in the dense airspace of the Middle East) and reduces dependence on supplies from abroad in the event of a crisis.

Lockheed Martin will coordinate these efforts by providing access to source codes, technical documentation, and simulation tools. The work ahead is extensive: from software architecture design to testing new combat algorithms.

As a result, although the contract was awarded to an American company, the whole system wins: the United States strengthens its alliance with Israel, and Israel gains more technological independence, and the F-35 becomes even smarter, more powerful and more deadly.

Auditor: the cost of the British F-35 program has increased to 71 billion pounds

According to data provided by the National Audit Office (NAO), the cost of the British F-35 fighter program by 2069 could reach 71 billion pounds ($96.2 billion) over the next four decades. This is significantly higher than the initial estimates of just 18.76 billion pounds for the purchase of the first 48 aircraft.  

The main reason for this price increase is long-term operating costs, including maintenance, modernization and logistical support for the fleet of 138 aircraft, which is planned to be used until 2069. The auditor also notes that there are serious gaps in the management of the program by the British Ministry of Defense.  

Earlier it was reported that the purchase of the first 35 F-35B aircraft alone cost the UK $4.17 billion (£3.36 billion), and the cost of the F-35B program, taking into account the 48 aircraft and support already delivered, exceeded $12 billion.  

 The budget increase is due not only to rising prices for the aircraft themselves, but also to logistical problems, supply delays, and the need to modernize infrastructure to service the fifth generation of aircraft.  

In this regard, the NAO called on the Ministry of Defense to review approaches to project management in order to avoid further cost overruns and ensure the combat readiness of the F-35 fleet in the long term.

Chinese 6G electronic warfare: photonic "ghost" creates 3,600 false targets for F-35 and AN/APG-85

 Using a next-generation signal processing engine, the new electronic warfare system provides an advantage over modern military radars. In particular, it is capable of intercepting signals and creating false targets for radars operating in the high frequency range. Experts believe that such radars are installed on American F-35 stealth fighters. As a ground-based jammer, the system can also act as a powerful communication device, receiving or transmitting a huge amount of data at extremely high speed.

China has already become a global leader in 6G technology. According to the SCMP publication, China is ahead of everyone in terms of the number of patents for this mobile communication standard. The new 6G device was developed for the armed forces by specialists from Huazhong University of Science and Technology. This is the world's first publicly confirmed system to provide "simultaneous full-duplex communication on a single frequency and jamming capability," which is a big step forward in the field of 6G military applications.

The system is designed to combat modern radar systems such as the Northrop Grumman AN/APG-85, which, according to military experts, are equipped with F-35 fighter jets. This system operates in the X-ray range at frequencies up to 12 GHz. Standard electronic warfare tools are powerless against such a system, but the new 6G device is capable of generating more than 3,600 false targets. In addition, it can function as a ground-based jammer and a high-speed communications hub, transmitting huge amounts of battlefield data over optical fiber to 300 platforms or more.

To overcome the limitations of electronic devices, scientists have used microwave photonic systems in the new system. Unlike standard electronic warfare systems focused on performing narrow tasks, this system combines sensing, analysis and data transmission with minimal power. Developers can optimize and compact what used to require bulky hardware.

The three-dimensional photonic core includes a dual-polarization "IQ modulator" for signal processing and jamming, an active fiber loop for precise delayed false targets, and an intelligent carrier recovery method for radar deception.

In the future, scientists are going to improve the design by reducing the number of components and reducing power consumption, while improving signal quality and processing capabilities.

At the beginning of the year, Chinese scientists revealed details of the technology behind the world's first geostationary satellite with a radar synthesized beam (SAR), Ludi Tance 4-01, launched in August 2023. The satellite, located at an altitude of 36,000 km, provides a constant view of a third of the Earth's surface. The technology on the basis of which it works has been kept secret until now.

F-35

The United States is deploying F-35s in the Philippines amid China's increased military presence in the Indo-Pacific region

After the deployment of the Typhon missile system, the United States began the first deployment of the F-35 in the Philippines

The Philippines is rapidly becoming a state on the front line of U.S.-China rivalry in the Indo—Pacific region, with Washington deploying its latest weapons systems in the country, which is part of the first island chain - strategic archipelagos in East Asia, including Taiwan, Japan and the Philippines.

Just a few days after the nuclear-powered American aircraft carrier George Washington arrived in the Philippine capital for a visit, the United States sent one of its most advanced fighter jets to this country for the first time. — F-35.

This move reflects the growing convergence of strategic interests between the United States, which seeks to protect its allies in the Indo-Pacific region, and the Philippines, which is increasingly becoming the target of China's aggressive behavior in the South China Sea.

A fifth-generation stealth aircraft has arrived at Clark Air Force Base to participate in the Cope Thunder 25-2 joint aviation exercise. The exercises began on July 7 and will last until July 18.

More than 2,500 people are participating in the exercise, including 2301 from the Philippine Air Force (PAF) and 225 from the US Pacific Air Forces. The Philippine Air Force also deployed several types of aircraft, including FA-50 fighter jets, A-29B Super Tucano aircraft, and AW109, S-76A, and S-70i Black Hawk helicopters.

China accelerates serial production of J-35 fighter jets: CCTV 13 showed footage from the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation factory

J-35 in the background of the frame

On July 8, 2025, China's state television channel CCTV 13 broadcast a program dedicated to aviation, presenting footage from the Shenyang Aircraft Corporation production facility, which captured several fifth-generation J-35 fighters in advanced assembly stages. These shots were an important confirmation that the J-35 has moved beyond the prototype stage and has begun mass production.

The video showed at least five or six J-35 airframes at various stages of configuration. Some of the aircraft had identifiers such as "040070", which indicates that they belong to the fourth production batch and indicate the transition of the project from an experimental to a full-fledged production stage. This aroused considerable interest from military experts and analysts, as there had previously been doubts about the pace of development and scale of production of this promising multi-role fighter.

The J-35 fighter jet, also known as FC-31 outside China, is positioned as a competitor to Lockheed Martin's F-35 and is designed for use on both ground bases and aircraft carriers. The program also demonstrated elements of its integration with new electronic warfare systems, AESA radars and new generation weapons.

These events are taking place against the backdrop of the active modernization course of the Chinese Air Force and Navy, including the development of the aircraft carrier fleet and the creation of new generation strike groups. It is assumed that the J-35 will be paired with the heavy fighter J-20 as part of the concept of network-centric warfare and air superiority.

Thus, the publication of such materials on the official state channel is a signal of both internal confidence in the project and an external demonstration effect in the context of increasing geopolitical tension in the Asia-Pacific region.

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.

External fuel tanks for the F-35 are once again included in the plans of the US Air Force

F-35

Plans to equip F-35 fighter jets with external fuel tanks have reappeared in the new budget of the US Air Force for fiscal year 2026. Earlier attempts to introduce such tanks were not implemented, but now this task is back on the program's priority list, sources close to the development said.

External fuel tanks will significantly increase the range of the F-35 without refueling in the air, which is especially important for long-range strike missions and operations in remote regions. Israel, one of the key operators of the F-35, has long insisted on expanding the aircraft's fuel capacity, given the need for long-range penetration, for example, to strike targets in Iran. For this purpose, both dropable tanks and conformal fuel tanks (CFTs) are being developed, which provide a lower aerodynamic penalty and do not occupy overhead pylons, while maintaining armament capabilities.

The implementation of this initiative will increase the operational flexibility and autonomy of the F-35, reduce dependence on air tankers and expand the tactical capabilities of the aircraft. At the same time, the integration of external tanks requires careful refinement of the aircraft's systems in order to maintain its stealth and maneuverability.

Germany has signed a contract with Norway for the purchase of Joint Strike Missile cruise missiles for F-35 fighter jets

 

 Joint Strike Missile 

On June 25, 2025, at the NATO summit in The Hague, Norwegian Defense Minister Tore O. Sandvik and German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius officially signed a major bilateral agreement on the supply of multi-purpose air-launched cruise missiles Joint Strike Missile (JSM). The value of the transaction is about 6.5 billion Norwegian kroner (approximately 565 million euros).

 The main details of the transaction

- JSM missiles will be supplied by the Norwegian company Kongsberg Defense & Aerospace.

- Germany plans to use these missiles on F-35 fighter jets, which are being purchased from the United States.

- The first deliveries are expected before the end of 2027.

- Germany will become the fifth country after Norway, Japan, Australia and the USA to use JSM.

The JSM is a modern multi—purpose cruise missile developed by Kongsberg in collaboration with the American Raytheon Missiles & Defense. It is capable of hitting well-protected targets both on land and on water at long distances with high accuracy. The rocket is adapted specifically for integration with the F-35 platform.

The signing of the agreement reflects Germany's efforts to modernize its armed forces and strengthen its defense capabilities in the face of growing threats in Europe. Earlier, Chancellor Friedrich Merz expressed support for Ukraine and the need to develop long-range weapons. The purchase of JSM for the F-35 will allow the Bundeswehr to increase its ability to launch targeted strikes and strengthen its role in NATO's collective security.

The aircraft carrier USS Gerald R Ford is heading to the Eastern Mediterranean to strengthen the US position in the Middle East

The American aircraft carrier USS Gerald R. Ford, the most modern and expensive ship of the US Navy, is scheduled to be deployed in the eastern Mediterranean Sea, near Israel. This step is due to the escalation of the conflict between Israel and Iran and is aimed at strengthening the US military presence in the region, CNN reported, citing Pentagon officials.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is a 333—meter-long giant equipped with two nuclear reactors, capable of reaching speeds of up to 56 km/h and carrying up to 90 aircraft and helicopters, including fifth-generation F-35 fighters. Its strike group is accompanied by destroyers and cruisers, which provides powerful force projection and protection against air, sea and underwater threats.

The deployment of an aircraft carrier near Israel is a demonstration of the United States' determination to support its allies and respond promptly to possible crisis situations related to the escalation of tension around Iran. This is the third US aircraft carrier sent to the region, which indicates a significant increase in military capabilities in the Mediterranean and the Middle East.

The Netherlands continues to support the supply of F-35 components to Israel through the port of Rotterdam

F-35 fighter jets

Despite court injunctions and protests from human rights organizations, the Netherlands continues to play a key role in supplying components for F-35 fighter jets to Israel. According to the NGO, Maersk ships transporting parts between the United States and Israel pass through the port of Rotterdam, which remains an important transit hub in the "death supply chain" for the Israeli Air Force.

The Hague Court of Appeal ruled in 2023 to stop exporting F-35 spare parts to Israel due to concerns that these aircraft are being used in military operations in the Gaza Strip that violate international humanitarian law. Nevertheless, despite court decisions and criticism from human rights activists, the Dutch Ministry of Defense has signed contracts with Israeli companies, continuing the supply and modernization of weapons.

The port of Rotterdam, the largest in Europe, remains a strategic point for transporting F-35 components, which raises concerns among activists pointing to Dutch complicity in armed conflicts in the Middle East. Organizations such as Oxfam Netherlands are calling on the Government to end cooperation with Israel, citing high risks of human rights violations.

At the same time, the Dutch Government stresses the importance of maintaining defense cooperation with its allies and modernizing its armed forces to ensure the security of the country and the region.

Lockheed Martin is developing an unmanned version of the F-35 fighter jet with improved stealth

The American company Lockheed Martin plans to create a new version of the fifth-generation fighter F-35 Lightning II, capable of flying without a pilot. This was announced by the head of the corporation, James Thacklet. According to him, flight tests of the unmanned F-35 can begin within two to three years.

The upgrade includes enhanced stealth capabilities due to improved stealth coating, redesigned engine nozzles and a change in the aerodynamic shape of the hull. In addition, it is planned to introduce new electronic warfare systems, which will increase the aircraft's resistance to modern detection and countermeasures.

The F-35 already has partial autonomous functions: in 2023, the aircraft was independently controlled after the pilot ejected. The new version will be equipped with an optional autonomous control system, which will allow performing combat missions without the participation of a pilot.

The development of the unmanned F-35 is linked to the Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, aimed at creating sixth-generation fighters. Lockheed Martin plans to use NGAD's developments to improve the F-35, which will provide up to 80% of the capabilities of the new generation of fighters at significantly lower cost.

At the same time, modern Russian and Chinese radar stations are already capable of detecting and tracking the F-35, which jeopardizes its stealth advantage. The new version should solve these problems through improved stealth coverage and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities.

The US Air Force plans to withdraw the F-15E Strike Eagle from the UK after activating the F-35 squadron

During recent Congressional hearings on the request for a defense budget for fiscal year 2026, it became known about the plans of the country's Air Force to withdraw F-15E Strike Eagle fighter-bombers from the United Kingdom.

These aircraft are currently based at Lakenheath Air Base, where they perform strategic tasks in Europe. However, their presence there will only continue until the second fifth generation squadron F-35 Lightning II is fully formed and activated. After that, the F-15E will be recalled to the United States.

This decision is part of a broader recapitalization plan for the combat aircraft fleet developed by the U.S. Air Force. The main goal of the program is to modernize the aviation fleet and strengthen its capabilities through new multifunctional and stealth fighters. The transition to the F-35 will enhance the Air Force's combat capabilities in the face of modern threats and ensure technological superiority in the future.