Romania is quietly becoming Europe's arms factory — drones, gunpowder and tanks are being built

Brasov as a new center of defense production

Where Soviet workshops used to be, modern factories are now growing. Romania has launched a large-scale revival of its defense industry, and the city of Brasov has become the main testing ground. It is here that new facilities are being built to produce drones, explosives and gunpowder, all of which became scarce after the outbreak of the war in Ukraine.

This is not just an upgrade. This is a restart of the entire system.

Drones, gunpowder, armor — what are they doing in new factories

Next up are three key areas:

• Drones — together with American partners, the production of tactical and attack drones is developing. The goal is not only to supply your army, but also to export.
• Gunpowder and explosives — production lines for ammunition components are being launched. This is critically important, because without a stable supply, artillery gets stuck.
• Tanks and armored vehicles — production and repair of equipment is expanding, including Leopard 2 and other NATO platforms.

All this makes Romania not just a consumer of weapons, but a producer of them.

Americans and Germans are helping to restart the industry

Help is coming from the USA and Germany. American companies participate in the creation of technological chains, supply licenses and equipment. The Germans help with engineering and quality standards. This is not a charity, but a strategic investment in a reliable rear in eastern Europe.

For Washington and Berlin, it is important that someone can quickly do what the front needs, without depending on long-range supplies.

Why Romania is the key to NATO's eastern flank

The geography speaks for itself: Romania is the only NATO country with access to the Black Sea, bordering Moldova and next to Ukraine. The main logistics routes run through it. Now it becomes not only a corridor, but also a source.

If ammunition or drones run out somewhere in the region, they can be set up right in Brasov. This changes everything from reaction time to strategic resilience.

Sources

1. Rambler News — Serial drone & munition production to start by end-2025
2. 1Prime — Rheinmetall powder plant in Romania & Romarm cooperation
3. Avia.pro — German-backed Romanian ammunition production plans
4. Ponomaroleg.com — Romania as new NATO hub & defence giant

Russia was going to join NATO in 1994. And the United States was ready to accept it. But Germany got in the way

Der Spiegel has found new documents shedding light on the origins of Moscow's conflict with the West.       

In the early 1990s, the administration of US President Bill Clinton seriously considered the possibility of Russia joining NATO. The main obstacle turned out to be the German government, headed by Chancellor Helmut Kohl. The German magazine Der Spiegel studied previously confidential documents from the publications of the Institute of Modern History, as well as from the personal archive of one of the participants in the events, and tells us what considerations guided and how Clinton, Kohl, Russian President Boris Yeltsin and their subordinates acted.

Back in 1991, before the official collapse of the USSR, Yeltsin proclaimed joining NATO as Russia's "long-term political goal." The former member countries of the Warsaw Pact Organization (the "Eastern Bloc" led by the USSR) stated the same thing, and Russian Foreign Minister Andrei Kozyrev asked the American administration to treat Russia is treated the same way as other "new democracies".

Moscow believed that since the negotiations on the unification of Germany in 1990, there had been a "basic understanding": Russia (then still the USSR) was abandoning hegemony over Eastern Europe, and in return the West recognized it as an equal political and military partner.

The Russian side believed that it had fulfilled its part of this informal agreement. Countries that were formerly Soviet satellites or Soviet republics sought to join NATO mainly in order to obtain security guarantees in case Russia wanted to dominate them again. Yeltsin and his associates considered these fears unfounded, and in January 1994, during Clinton's visit to Moscow, they offered him an unexpected decision: to accept Russia into NATO first, and then other Eastern European countries. Clinton did not agree to this arrangement.

At the NATO summit in In Brussels in January 1994, the alliance approved in principle the Partnership for Peace program, which involves military cooperation with the former Warsaw Pact countries. Strobe Talbott, the American special envoy for the former USSR and a personal friend of Clinton, flew straight from Moscow to Brussels and informed the allies: the United States considers the expansion of NATO to the east a done deal, and in ten years Russia should also be accepted into the alliance.

Already in August 1994, when the Partnership for Peace was launched, and Russia has become an important participant in the program, — German diplomats reported from Washington's response to Berlin is that the position of Clinton and Talbott is not supported by either The State Department, nor in Neither the Pentagon, nor the CIA, nor even the White House itself (obviously, the US National Security Council).

The prospect of Russia joining NATO raised many objections from European allies, especially Germany: Chancellor Kohl, Vice Chancellor, Foreign Minister Klaus Kinkel, and Defense Minister Volker Ruhe were against it. They believed that Russia's entry would mean a sharp increase in internal contradictions in the alliance, so that it would become incapacitated. German politicians were not sure that Russia would remain on the path of market and democratic reforms, and feared that it could once again become a threat to Europe, as during the Cold War., — and then it will be much more difficult to resist it if it is a member of NATO, which was created just to contain it.

The main objection was that if Russia had a conflict with, say, China, European soldiers would have to go to war on the other side of the continent.As Der Spiegel notes, a decade later, German Chancellor Angela Merkel raised a similar objection to Ukraine's admission to NATO — only Russia was already in China's place. And since decisions on the admission of new members to NATO are made only unanimously, neither Russia nor Ukraine were eventually accepted into the alliance.                                                               

At the same time, in 1994, the German government carefully avoided objecting to Russia's admission in public, so as not to spoil bilateral relations with Moscow. When Kozyrev, an ardent supporter of Russia's integration into Western structures, directly asked his German counterpart Klaus Kinkel what the problem was, he replied that the alliance was "not ready for Russia's entry" at the moment, but did not raise any fundamental objections.

Chancellor Kohl avoided this topic altogether when communicating with Yeltsin. But Yeltsin did not raise this issue, because he believed that the support of the United States was enough for him. At the same time, Kohl diligently established friendly relations between Russia and Germany, primarily business ties, and considered it necessary to support Yeltsin in the presidential elections scheduled for 1996.

Considering Clinton's ideas about Russia's admission to NATO incomplete, Kohl was at the same time unhappy with Polish President Lech Walesa.: he compared Russia to a bear that should be put in a cage, and insisted that his country join NATO as soon as possible, regardless of the interests of the alliance's members, in particular, with the bilateral relations of Germany and Russia.

Kohl proposed first to admit Poland, the Czech Republic and Hungary to the European Union, and to postpone the expansion of NATO until 2000. But Clinton decided that it would take too long. As a result, official negotiations on the accession of these three countries to NATO began in 1997, and they became members of the alliance in 1999. 

They joined the EU only in 2004.Andrei Kozyrev writes in his memoirs of 2019 that the issue of Russia's membership in NATO was a "litmus test" for him: if they take it, it is an alliance in defense of the free world, if not, it is an anti—Russian bloc. The way NATO expansion was organized convinced him that the second option was correct.

Germany is developing the first drone to be launched from a submarine

A submarine as a platform for unmanned surface vehicles

Germany is making a breakthrough in the field of marine technology by developing the world's first unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), which can be launched directly from a submarine. This innovation will allow underwater forces to conduct reconnaissance and operations with minimal risk while remaining hidden underwater.

The new generation of USV is being developed as part of a partnership between the German naval company Gabler and the Danish company FLANQ, specializing in marine robotics. The agreement was announced at the DALI Industry Days 2025 conference in Ballerup, Denmark, highlighting the growing integration of European defense contractors in the field of autonomous systems.

Gabler and FLANQ Partnership: technologies of the future

A key feature of the project will be the adaptation of standard submarine torpedo tubes to launch drones. This means that existing submarines will be able to use their regular infrastructure without the need for deep modernization. After launch, the USV will be able to autonomously carry out missions on the surface, leaving the submarine in a safe zone.

FLANQ provides advanced solutions in autonomous control and energy efficiency, while Gabler provides expertise in integrating systems into naval platforms. The joint development is aimed at creating a compact, reliable and scalable solution for a modern fleet.

Silent reconnaissance and strike capabilities

Unmanned vehicles launched from submarines will be able to perform a wide range of tasks, from coastal exploration and navigation monitoring to electronic reconnaissance and, if necessary, precision strikes. Due to their autonomy and low visibility, USVs are ideal for operations in difficult and potentially hostile waters.

A special advantage is the preservation of the submarine's stealth. Instead of surfacing and risking detection, the submarine can remotely launch a drone that will complete the task and transmit the data back.

A breakthrough in a new generation of underwater warfare

The development opens a new chapter in the evolution of underwater warfare. The transformation of torpedo tubes into universal launchers for autonomous systems marks the transition from purely attack platforms to "wombs" controlling a swarm of drones. This approach enhances operational flexibility, expands the area of control and increases the survival of underwater forces.

If the tests are successful, Germany will become one of the first countries in the world to implement such technology in a real combat infrastructure.

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.

Ukraine received German Vector WASP UAVs with microphones for artillery detection

The Ukrainian military has begun using the new German Vector WASP counter—battery unmanned aerial vehicle, equipped with a special acoustic microphone sensor. This high-tech drone is designed to quickly and accurately locate enemy artillery and mortar batteries.

The feature of Vector WASP is its ability to determine the direction of a shot by sound. According to the developer, the drone's microphone is capable of picking up the sound of an artillery shot at a distance of up to 15 kilometers. Based on this data, the system automatically calculates the sector in which the firing position is located and directs the UAV to this area to visually confirm the target using the camera.

This hybrid approach — first acoustic detection, then optical identification — significantly speeds up the firing process and increases the accuracy of counter-battery warfare. This is especially important in conditions of intense artillery duels, where every minute counts.

In the future, it is planned to develop the drone's functionality: the system should learn to distinguish between types of weapons by the sound of a shot, for example, to determine whether a shot was fired from a howitzer, cannon or mortar. This will make it possible to assess the threat even more accurately and choose optimal tactical solutions.

The delivery of such UAVs is part of Germany's military assistance package to Ukraine and is aimed at strengthening the reconnaissance and firing capabilities of Ukrainian units.

Germany buys 1,500 Wolf 2 SUVs with digital command equipment

The German Armed Forces (Bundeswehr) have taken an important step in modernizing their fleet by ordering 1,500 new Wolf 2 SUVs. The agreement with the manufacturer, Rheinmetall, provides for the possibility of increasing supplies to 5,800 units, depending on the needs of the army.

The new Wolf 2 is based on the latest military version of the legendary Mercedes-Benz G-Class (464 series), which guarantees high reliability, cross-country capability and compatibility with existing infrastructure. As with the previous model, the solid ladder frame with an articulated body remains the basis of the design, providing excellent cross-country ability on difficult off-road terrain.

One of the key innovations was the standard equipment of each car with a modern digital radio and D-LBO (Digitales Leit- und Befehlsorgan) command equipment. This will allow cars to be integrated into a single digital control network, increasing the efficiency, security of communication and efficiency of interaction between departments.

Wolf 2 is designed to solve a wide range of tasks, from transporting personnel and reconnaissance to use as a mobile command post. Its high adaptability makes it a versatile means of transportation in all conditions.

Deliveries of the vehicles have already begun, and the first copies have already been delivered to the troops.

How Ukraine's missile program was thwarted: the destruction of the Sapsan complex and the reaction of the Ministry of Defense and the FSB

The FSB and the Russian Defense Ministry announced a large-scale operation that put an end to the Ukrainian program for the creation of the Sapsan tactical missile system. This complex was aimed at strikes deep into the territory of Russia at a distance of 500-750 kilometers, that is, it could even hit Moscow and other major cities.

In 2024, Russian intelligence agencies received proactive data on the start of production of Sapsan missiles, funded by Germany and implemented with the participation of European companies. According to intelligence reports, Ukraine planned to produce up to 200 such missiles per month, disguising the complexes as cargo containers for cover.

In July 2025, Russia launched a series of massive strikes against key facilities of the Ukrainian military-industrial complex. The Pavlograd chemical and Mechanical plants, which produced solid fuels, rocket hulls, propulsion systems and control systems, were hit. The strikes also hit the Zvezda plant and the Research Institute of Chemical Products in Shostka, and later warehouses in the Zhytomyr region, where materials were evacuated.

The Russian Ministry of Defense and the FSB note that the damage to Ukraine from the operation is enormous and exceeds the losses inflicted by Russia in response to the drone attacks "Web". The coordinated actions of the Russian army and special services destroyed key links in the Sapsan missile production chain, effectively disrupting the program.

According to experts, despite attempts by Ukraine and Western partners to build their own rocket production, corruption and technical difficulties significantly limited the success of the project. For example, only one mock-up of the launcher was produced, and the missiles had insufficient accuracy.

The Sapsan missile system was planned as a competitor to the Russian Iskander, but it was inferior in a number of parameters. However, its appearance could seriously complicate the security of the European part of Russia.

Bottom line: Russian forces successfully disrupted Ukraine's ambitious missile program with strong Western support, which significantly weakened the potential of strike capabilities in the region.

Germany hits drones: New Skyranger cannon will shoot down Quadrocopters like Geese on a hunt

Germany is serious about drones. Those that circle like midges over the battlefield, drop explosives or spy on positions. To stop this aerial leapfrog, the Germans are betting heavily on the Skyranger system, a mobile anti—aircraft system that can be imagined as a Kalashnikov assault rifle, but against drones.

An 8x8 armored vehicle has a 35mm cannon mounted on it, and it's not just rapid—fire - it fires programmable ammunition. That is, the projectile is "smart": it is adjusted before firing, and at the right moment it explodes right next to the target — be it a quadcopter, a kamikaze drone, or even a small helicopter. Simply put, you don't need to hit accurately — it's enough to detonate a projectile a meter from the target, and the drone turns into a pile of burnt plastic.

The advantage is that Skyranger is a point defense. The car can be placed next to a camp, a warehouse, or a convoy of vehicles — and it will cover everything around, shooting down dozens of targets in a row. This is especially important now, when enemies are massively throwing cheap but dangerous drones into battle.

The complex fits perfectly into the new military reality: it is rapidly unfolding, mobile, and tenacious. And most importantly, it works where there is no road, but there is a threat.

Germany is already purchasing such systems, and this is not just a modernization of the army — it is a response to the fact that the future of war is in the air, and it flies on batteries.

Germany has launched Pegasus, its new "smart" scout in the sky with AI and super—sensitive ears

Germany has officially commissioned its new aerial superintelligence system, the PEGASUS system. This is not just another aircraft, but a real flying electronic intelligence center (SIGINT) capable of "eavesdropping" on enemy radars, radio stations and communications from a great distance. And most importantly, for the first time in more than 10 years, Germany has again received a fully independent aerial reconnaissance, which it can control on its own, without the help of allies.

PEGASUS was created based on the Bombardier Global 6000 business jet, which is reliable and long-range. And it was developed by leading German companies: HENSOLDT, Lufthansa Technik Defense and Bombardier Defense, with the participation of about 30 German companies, including many small and medium-sized enterprises. This is not just a defense order, it is the pumping of the entire national defense industry.

The heart of the system is the Kalaetron Integral from HENSOLDT. This is an advanced complex that simultaneously captures both radar signals (ELINT) and communications (COMINT) — that is, how the enemy radar works and what its command says. It covers the range from 30 MHz to 40 GHz, which means that almost everything that electronics emit on the battlefield will be heard by Pegasus.

The system operates in real time, with high accuracy and sensitivity. But the most interesting thing is that there is artificial intelligence and machine learning inside. They automatically analyze signals, identify threats, filter noise, and help operators not drown in data. Instead of sitting and manually deciphering every squeak, people get a ready-made picture of where, what and how it emits.

Thanks to this, PEGASUS can patrol over a safe area for a long time, but at the same time "see" what is happening deep behind the front line. It integrates data from other platforms and gives the German armed forces a clear, operational understanding of the electronic environment — especially in complex, dynamic conditions, for example, near Russia or in crisis zones.

Now Germany is not just watching — it listens, understands and acts. And he does it with the help of his own, "smart" heavenly spy.

Germany throws fighter jets into Poland: Eurofighter on guard at the border with Belarus

Germany took a decisive step — five Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets landed at the Lask airbase, which is just a couple of hours east of Warsaw. This is not just another training transfer. The deployment took place just before the high-profile joint military exercises of Russia and Belarus, scheduled for September. And the signal that Berlin is sending is very clear: "We are with our allies, and we will not let you play out the scenario on our territory."

These five Typhoons are not just beautiful airplanes with German crosses on board. They are now part of the permanent grouping of German troops in Poland, which already includes two batteries of Patriot anti-aircraft missile systems, as well as additional aircraft and technical support. In other words, we are talking about a full-fledged air group capable of both intercepting targets and covering its troops and allies in the event of an escalation.

A spokeswoman for the German Air Force bluntly stated: "This deployment is a clear signal of allied solidarity within NATO and a reliable means of deterrence and protection of the common airspace." Simply put, "we are here, we are together, and if someone does something wrong, they will be rebuffed."

The background for this step is the increasingly tense situation on the eastern flank of NATO. Russia and Belarus have announced large-scale joint exercises "Slavic Brotherhood" or "Zapad-2025" (the exact name has not yet been announced), which will be held on the territory of Belarus. According to the plans, tens of thousands of troops, tanks, aircraft, and possibly even missile systems will be involved there.

But Poland, Lithuania, Latvia and Estonia are watching these maneuvers with concern. It's no secret that they are afraid: what if these exercises will become a cover for real aggression? Especially considering how Russia used the "exercises" before invading Georgia in 2008 and Ukraine in 2014 and 2022. There are fears that the troops who arrived "for the exercises" simply will not leave — and a new phase of the conflict will begin, already on the borders of NATO.

That is why Germany, as one of the key players in Europe and a member of NATO, decided not to wait. Placing a Eurofighter in a Weasel is not just a technical exercise. This is a demonstration of readiness for action. These fighters can intercept enemy aircraft, escort reconnaissance vehicles, and, if necessary— participate in combat operations. And the presence of Patriot adds a layer of defense: they are capable of intercepting ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as aircraft.

In addition, Germany is showing that it is taking on more responsibility for the security of Eastern Europe. Previously, the United States and the Baltic countries had borne the brunt in this area. Now Berlin is clearly strengthening its presence — and this may be the beginning of a new strategy.

 Moscow continues to pump Belarus with troops and equipment, and the West will strengthen its position.

September will show what happens next. When the exercises of Russia and Belarus begin, it will be especially hot in the skies over Eastern Europe, both literally and figuratively.

Germany is building the army of the future: The Bundeswehr 2040 is preparing for a digital and high-tech war

 

Germany has announced a large-scale transformation of its army. The goal is to create a fundamentally new, high—tech and digital armed force, known as the Bundeswehr 2040. This project is a response to the changing nature of threats and the rapid technological progress that is already shaping modern conflicts.

The essence of the reform is the abandonment of outdated concepts and the transition to an "army of the future" capable of operating in conditions of hybrid warfare, cyber attacks, space threats and the mass use of drones. A key element will be the deep digitalization of all processes: from command and communications to logistics and intelligence. It is planned to create a single, secure digital network that will unite all branches of the armed forces, providing instant data exchange and real-time decision-making.

Special attention is paid to automation and robotics. Thousands of ground and aerial unmanned systems will be integrated into the Bundeswehr 2040 structure, from reconnaissance drones to robotic infantry escort vehicles and autonomous fire support platforms. These "unpopulated" systems will reduce risks for soldiers and perform tasks in the most dangerous areas.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is also in the spotlight. It will be used to analyze huge amounts of intelligence data, predict enemy actions, optimize supply routes, and even support tactical decision-making on the battlefield. In addition, Germany is investing in the development of cyber and space forces, recognizing these areas as new theaters of military operations.

This transformation will require not only huge financial investments, but also deep personnel changes. The army of the future will need not only fighters, but also cybersecurity specialists, programmers, robotics engineers, and data analysts. Bundeswehr 2040 is an ambitious attempt by Germany not just to modernize the army, but to completely reboot it, making it one of the most technologically advanced in Europe.

Denmark urgently bought German IRIS-T SLM missiles to protect against aerial threats

 

IRIS-T SLM

Denmark has dramatically strengthened its air defense by signing an urgent contract for the purchase of a modern German medium-range anti-aircraft missile system, the IRIS-T SLM. The decision was made in response to the growing threats in the region, and the purchase followed an expedited procedure to get new systems as quickly as possible.

The contract was signed by the German Armed Forces Procurement Office (BAAINBw) on behalf of Denmark with Diehl Defense, the developer and manufacturer of the system. This is an unusual but effective way when the purchasing country uses the purchasing system of another country to speed up the process. Germany is already actively using the IRIS-T SLM and has ordered a large number of such complexes, which allows for fast deliveries.

The IRIS-T SLM (Surface Launched Medium Range) system is a mobile anti—aircraft missile system capable of hitting airplanes, helicopters, cruise missiles and drones at a distance of up to 40 kilometers. It will become an important link in Denmark's multi-level air defense system, filling the gap between short-range systems and long-range complexes. It is expected that the new complexes will allow Denmark to more effectively protect its territories, including Greenland and the Faroe Islands, from modern air threats.

Germany is building an "invisible army": from spy cockroaches to AI deception

 Germany, historically cautious in military matters, is radically revising its defense strategy. Against the background of growing geopolitical instability and the technological race with the United States, China and Russia, Berlin is betting not on new tanks, but on microtechnologies, bioinspired systems and artificial intelligence. The goal is to be one step ahead technologically.

The central figure in this new philosophy of war may be... a robotic cockroach. Inspired by DARPA's experiments, German scientists from institutions like Fraunhofer and IABG are moving on.: they create cyber-biological hybrids — "taracoids" with microscopic processors and AI. These live-inanimate agents are able to infiltrate ruins, tunnels and bunkers, transmitting real-time intelligence, becoming invaluable in urban battles and hostage rescue operations.

At the same time, Rheinmetall is developing fully autonomous combat robots. Their platforms can independently determine targets and make tactical decisions, learning from combat simulations in Ukraine and Syria. However, the key difference between the German approach is the emphasis on "ethical AI" and "digital humanism." The Bundeswehr insists that the decision to use deadly force should be left to humans, although there are disputes about fully autonomous missions in case of loss of communication.

Germany is also reviving military cunning, but digitally. Algorithms create fake radio signals, false targets, and digital counterparts of technology to mislead the AI opponent. This is a new form of disguise — cyber-disinformation.

To avoid dependence on the United States and China, Germany is building European supply chains for "military AI," including its own data centers and cloud infrastructures.

The program "Future Combat Systems – Bundeswehr 2040" depicts the future: a Bundeswehr soldier will become an operator surrounded by a swarm of drones, ground robots and nanosatellites, whose actions are synchronized by AI. Such an army, according to the idea, will not only be more powerful, but also more accurate, minimizing civilian casualties. Germany is not just preparing for war — it is designing its rules, making it almost invisible and controllable at the microchip level.

Germany is going to dramatically increase its power: fighter jets, thousands of armored vehicles and the Merz dream army

 

Germany is preparing for a large—scale military breakthrough - and we are talking about multibillion-dollar purchases that could change the face of European defense. According to sources from the Reuters news agency, the country plans to buy:

- 20 new Eurofighter fighters,  

- up to 3,000 Boxer armored personnel carriers,  

- and up to 3,500 Patria infantry fighting vehicles.

This is not just an upgrade of the fleet, it is an attempt to build the most powerful land army in Europe. And the main architect of this idea is Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who wants Germany to stop depending on the United States and take on a serious role in ensuring security on the continent.

Why now? Because after Ukraine, rising tensions with Russia, and instability in transatlantic relations, more and more Europeans are wondering: will America come to the rescue if war breaks out? Merz thinks it's impossible to take risks. Germany must be ready to fight on its own, and for this we need a modern, mobile and well-armed army.

Boxer is a heavy armored vehicle capable of withstanding minefields and drone attacks. The Patria is a lighter but faster combat vehicle, ideal for quick maneuvers. And the Eurofighter are fifth—generation fighters that will cover all this ground power from the air.

Of course, all this will cost tens of billions of euros. But in Berlin they think it's better to pay now than to pay with blood later.

This plan is not just a military reform. This is a geopolitical signal: Germany no longer wants to be a passive player. She wants to be a force to be reckoned with, inside and outside NATO.

Germany lifted the ban: Turkey is now allowed to buy Eurofighter Typhoon fighters

 

Eurofighter Typhoon

The long-awaited "good" has finally been received. Germany has officially lifted its veto on the sale of modern Eurofighter Typhoon fighter jets to Turkey, a move that has long blocked the deal. Now the way for supplies is open, and Ankara can begin negotiations on the purchase of up to 40 aircraft.

Turkey used to be completely isolated on this issue. Despite the fact that the Eurofighter is produced by a consortium of four countries — Germany, Great Britain, Italy and Spain — the sale to each new buyer requires the consent of all participants. And Berlin has been the "brake" in recent years: due to disagreements with Ankara on a number of issues, including military operations in Syria, purchases of Russian weapons (like the S-400) and domestic policy, the Germans did not give the green light.

Now the position has changed. Most likely, this is due to common interests within NATO: Turkey is a key player on the southern flank of the alliance, and its strengthening with modern Western fighters (instead of Russian or Chinese analogues) is beneficial to everyone. Plus, there is pressure from other partners, especially the UK and Italy, who have been waiting for a lucrative contract for a long time.

The Eurofighter Typhoon is one of Europe's most advanced combat aircraft: super—maneuverable, with powerful radar and the ability to carry a wide range of weapons. This is a chance for Turkey to upgrade its aging F-16 fleet and strengthen its air defenses, especially amid tensions in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Middle East.

So now that Germany has agreed, the deal can be finalized in the coming months. Turkey will receive a powerful strike resource, and Europe will be confident that one of its key allies remains on "our side" technologically.

XQ-58 Valkyrie goes to Europe — new system from Airbus makes it a profitable export offer

XQ-58 Valkyrie 

The American XQ-58 Valkyrie attack drone, known as the "combat partner" for manned fighter jets, has begun its journey to the European market. This became possible thanks to the cooperation of Kratos with the European aviation giant Airbus, which has developed a new control system for the drone.  

Now Valkyrie is not just a promising drone for the American army, but a full—fledged export product that will be offered not only to Germany, but also to other EU countries. Berlin has already shown interest in this machine, especially in light of the threats posed by the massive use of drones in modern conflicts.

 What is the XQ-58 Valkyrie?

This is a super-maneuverable attack drone created using stealth technology (barely noticeable to radars), which can work in conjunction with manned fighters, acting as a scout, target designator and even an ammunition carrier. It is also called an "aerial bodyguard" for fighter pilots.  

Now, with the new Airbus control system, it has become even more compatible with European standards and weapons systems — which makes it especially interesting for NATO countries like Germany, Poland, France and the United Kingdom.

In an environment where drones are increasingly becoming the main threat in the airspace, especially in conflicts involving swarms of UAVs and kamikaze drones, autonomous systems capable of responding quickly and supporting aviation are needed. This is exactly what Valkyrie is — a cheap, fast and at the same time dangerous opponent for any enemy drone or even a light fighter.

In addition, the XQ-58 can be used not only for attack, but also for reconnaissance purposes, as well as as a platform for testing new artificial intelligence technologies in combat conditions.

If the first deliveries and testing in Germany are successful, we can expect the expansion of contracts to other European countries. This could be an important step in modernizing the European Air Force and enhancing its capabilities in the face of growing threats from Russia and China.  

In general, Valkyrie is no longer just an American project — it is becoming an international player in the market of new-generation military drones.

German HX-2 drones are being tested in Europe and are ready for mass production

HX-2

The German company Helsing is actively promoting its HX-2 attack drones, which are currently being tested by several European armies from Germany to the UK. This was stated by the vice president of the company Simon Brunies. However, not all countries are in a hurry to buy these drones: for example, France is likely to abandon purchases, but Germany may make a decision by the end of 2025.

What is the HX-2?

This is not just a drone, but a real "smart" kamikaze with elements of artificial intelligence, capable of finding targets on its own, even if there is powerful electronic suppression around. It flies fast — up to 220 km/ h, can fly as far as 100 km, weighs about 12 kg, and its combat load allows it to hit both equipment and enemy fortifications.

Currently, the plant in southern Germany produces about 450 HX-2 drones per month, but the company wants to increase this number to 1,000 units per month. And if they launch a second plant, then up to 2,500 units per month. However, this requires training new specialists, and it takes time.

Interest in such drones is growing throughout Europe, as armies increasingly realize that modern warfare is impossible without autonomous systems. Especially after such devices began to show themselves on the battlefield.

Who is already using the HX-2?

- Germany is considering the possibility of purchasing these drones — this could be an important step in modernizing its army.

- Other European countries are still testing the HX-2 to see if it suits them in terms of performance and price.

- Ukraine has already received thousands of such drones, and they are actively used on the front line. According to the Ukrainian military, some of them have already been in real battles.

The artificial intelligence in the drone gives it the ability to deceive air defense systems, act independently and even work in bundles — the so-called "swarms". This makes them much more effective than conventional drones and changes the approach to warfare in general. In other words, the future is already here — and it's flying at 220 km/h straight at the target.

If interest in such technologies continues, it can be expected that in a couple of years, HX-2 type drones will become a standard element of the arsenal of any modern army.

Europe returns to fortification: France prints bunkers on a 3D printer, Germany builds trenches like Lego

European countries are actively introducing innovative technologies into the military sphere, returning to the art of fortification — the construction of fortified positions and defensive structures. In the face of growing geopolitical threats and the need for rapid deployment of defense, traditional construction methods are giving way to modern solutions.

France has pioneered the use of 3D printing of concrete for the construction of bunkers and other fortifications. With the help of additive technologies, they create durable, quickly erected structures that can be adapted to specific combat missions. Industrial 3D printers allow you to print not just individual elements, but entire sections of defensive structures directly on the battlefield or in the rear.

Meanwhile, Germany is developing the idea of modular trench construction based on the Lego type as part of the Fortification Technologies program. This allows military personnel to quickly assemble shelters from pre-prepared plastic or composite blocks, ensuring mobility and efficiency in organizing defense.

Although the appearance of defensive structures has remained the same — walls, trenches, shelters — their internal structure and methods of construction have undergone significant changes. Modern technologies make construction safer, more economical and faster.

This resurgence of interest in fortification indicates that in the context of modern conflict, not only high-tech weapons are important, but also the ability to quickly create a stable line of defense.

Germany is close to buying the Israeli BlueWhale unmanned submarine

BlueWhale submarine

Germany and Israel are in the final stages of negotiations on the possible purchase of an autonomous unmanned BlueWhale submarine developed by the Israeli company Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI). It is reported that negotiations between the two countries have reached an advanced stage, which may lead to one of the most significant contracts in the field of underwater technologies in recent years.

Germany's interest in BlueWhale arose against the background of growing threats in the underwater area, especially after numerous incidents of damage to underwater communications and increased activity of foreign submarines in the Baltic Sea. The German Navy has long expressed interest in advanced solutions in the field of underwater surveillance and anti-submarine defense.

Last year, the Bundeswehr conducted two weeks of intensive BlueWhale testing as part of its Operational Experiment (OPEX) program. These tests were conducted with the participation of Israeli specialists and the German defense company Atlas Elektronik. The test area was not chosen by chance — the Baltic Sea is considered one of the most difficult waters for underwater navigation and sonar surveillance.

The BlueWhale unmanned submarine is a high-tech AUV (Autonomous Underwater Vehicle) type device capable of carrying out long-term missions of exploration, monitoring and detection of other underwater objects without the need for constant control from the surface. Its potential acquisition could be an important step in modernizing Germany's submarine forces and improving the country's maritime security.

Germany plans to purchase up to 1,000 Leopard 2 tanks and 2,500 GTK Boxer infantry fighting vehicles to form new NATO brigades

 Germany is considering purchasing up to 1,000 Leopard 2 tanks and up to 2,500 GTK Boxer armored combat vehicles as part of efforts to strengthen Europe's defense capabilities and form new NATO combat brigades to deter Russia.

According to reports, these weapons will be used to equip up to seven combat brigades, which Germany plans to create over the next ten years as part of its commitments to the North Atlantic Alliance. This mobilization of resources indicates a serious restructuring of the German army (Bundeswehr) and an increase in its combat readiness in the face of the worsening geopolitical situation in Eastern Europe.

The cost of this purchase may amount to about 25 billion euros, which indicates the scale of the planned changes and Germany's long-term defense commitments. According to Bloomberg and other sources, the purchase decision is related to the need to modernize the armed forces and adapt to new threats, especially after the events in Ukraine and NATO's increased attention to the eastern borders.

In addition, these plans are being implemented in the context of broader joint European initiatives aimed at creating rapid reaction strike groups, strengthening air defense systems, developing logistics chains and coordinating actions between NATO member countries.

Taking all this into account, we can say that the actions of Germany and other EU countries really demonstrate purposeful preparations for a possible strategic confrontation with Russia, even if official statements are often limited to formulations about "deterrence" and "ensuring security."