Finland announces a tender for the purchase of combat robots for the disposal of explosive devices

New requirements for robotics in the Finnish Army

The Finnish military has announced a new tender for the supply of specialized military robots designed to support ground forces in detecting and neutralizing explosive threats. This decision was part of a large-scale modernization program aimed at improving the level of protection of personnel and the effectiveness of operations in difficult conditions.

The emphasis on robotics reflects the growing reliance of modern armies on remote-controlled systems, especially in high-risk tasks.

Two models — large and small: versatility in combat conditions

The Finnish Ministry of Defense is looking for two different models of robots:

• The small robot is compact, mobile, and easily transportable, designed to operate in confined spaces such as buildings, tunnels, or dense forests.
• A large robot is a more powerful platform with increased load capacity, capable of moving heavy objects, overcoming difficult obstacles and equipped with an expanded set of tools.

This dual approach provides flexibility and allows for an effective response to a wide range of threats, from improvised explosive devices (IEDs) to camouflaged mines.

Robots for mine clearance and work with IEDs

It is assumed that robots will be included in explosive Ordnance Disposal teams The Finnish Armed Forces. They will be equipped with manipulators, all-round cameras, chemical sensors, remote control systems and the ability to operate in conditions of low visibility and extreme weather conditions.

The use of robots reduces the need for risky sappers to enter the site of an explosive threat, which directly increases the survival rate and efficiency of operations.

Finland is in the trend of European military robotics

Finland joins the number of European countries — including Germany, France and Sweden — that are actively implementing combat robotics. Given the geopolitical situation in the region and the experience of recent conflicts, where IEDs play a key role, investments in such technologies are becoming a strategic priority.

The purchase of robots is part of a broader transformation of the Finnish army into a modern, technologically equipped force capable of responding quickly to new challenges.

Lithuania will allocate more than 461 million euros for the purchase of Leopard 2A8 tanks

The Lithuanian government plans to significantly strengthen its ground forces by allocating significant funds for the purchase of modern combat tanks. According to the draft resolution registered by the Ministry of Finance of the country, more than 461 million euros will be allocated from the state budget for an advance payment for the supply of Leopard 2A8 tanks.

These funds were allocated as part of a large-scale army modernization program aimed at increasing the country's defense capability in a changing geopolitical environment. Leopard 2A8 tanks, which are among the most advanced in Europe, will provide Lithuanian troops with a high level of firepower, protection and mobility.

The draft document providing for financing was officially registered on Monday. Its approval will be an important step towards signing a contract for the supply of equipment.

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

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

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

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

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

Stryker 8x8

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 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.

IndoDefence 2025: German armored infantry vehicle Marder 1A3 will become the backbone of Indonesia's mechanized forces

Marder 1A3

At IndoDefence 2025 in Jakarta, it was announced that the German armored infantry vehicle Marder 1A3 will be a key platform for the modernization of the mechanized forces of the Indonesian army. This move reflects Indonesia's desire to strengthen its ground forces with modern and reliable armored personnel carriers.

The Marder 1A3 is a time—tested infantry fighting vehicle with high mobility, protection, and firepower. She is able to effectively carry out the tasks of transporting personnel, fire support and participation in combat operations in various conditions.

The choice of the Marder 1A3 indicates Indonesia's intention to increase the combat capability of its mechanized units and integrate modern technologies into the country's defense industry. In addition, cooperation with German manufacturers opens up opportunities for technical support and local maintenance of equipment.

The Netherlands is strengthening its ground forces: a contract has been signed for the supply of 46 Leopard 2 A8 tanks

 

 Leopard 2

The Dutch Ministry of Defense has announced the signing of an important contract with the KMW + Nexter Defense Systems (KNDS) concern for the supply of 46 Leopard 2 main battle tanks of the latest A8 modification. This decision became part of a large-scale modernization program of the country's ground forces and is aimed at replacing outdated armored vehicles with modern platforms that meet the requirements of the 21st century.

The Leopard 2 A8 tanks are considered to be among the most advanced in their class. They are equipped with improved dynamic protection, a digital fire control system, an integrated active protection system and an upgraded chassis, which increases their survival and combat effectiveness in today's full range of conflicts.

The delivery is scheduled for the period from 2028 to 2031, which will make it possible to carry out the necessary training of crews and modernize the logistical and technical base for servicing new machines.

The contract also became an important step in the framework of EU cooperation in the field of defense. KNDS, a joint venture between Germany's Krauss-Maffei Wegmann (KMW) and France's Nexter, is a symbol of European military—technical integration and the pursuit of strategic autonomy.

This acquisition demonstrates the growing attention of NATO countries to strengthening the grouping on the eastern flank in response to the changing geopolitical situation and the strengthening of the Russian military presence in the region.

$180 million deal: Rolls-Royce engines for Israeli Eitan AFV armored vehicles

 

The Eitan is an armored combat vehicle designed to replace the obsolete M113 armored personnel carrier in the Israel Defense Forces

The US State Department has approved a large-scale deal worth 180 million dollars, under which modern Rolls-Royce Eitan Powerpack engines will be supplied to Israel. This decision underscores the deepening military cooperation between Washington and Jerusalem, as well as Israel's desire to modernize its ground forces to conduct modern combat operations.

The Eitan is the latest model of Israeli AFV (Armored Fighting Vehicle) class armored vehicles, designed to perform a wide range of tasks, including patrolling, transporting personnel, and battlefield support. However, the key element of successful operation of any armored vehicle is its engine. That is why the choice fell on the Eitan Powerpack from Rolls-Royce, which combines power, reliability and energy efficiency.

These engines provide high maneuverability and endurance, which is especially important for the difficult terrain conditions typical of the Middle East region. In addition, the use of modern technologies makes it possible to minimize fuel consumption and simplify maintenance.

The approval of the $180 million deal demonstrates the U.S. commitment to supporting Israel's defense capabilities. This is not just a commercial transaction, but an important step in strengthening the strategic partnership between the two countries. Modern armored vehicles equipped with Rolls-Royce engines will become an important element of the Israeli ground forces, contributing to their readiness to face modern threats.

The Israeli Armed Forces (IDF) are actively modernizing their units to meet the challenges of the 21st century. The Eitan armored vehicles, equipped with Eitan Powerpack engines, will significantly increase the mobility and firepower of the ground forces. This is especially important in the context of growing threats from neighboring Countries and ongoing conflicts in the region.

The delivery of Rolls-Royce engines is only part of a larger plan to upgrade Israel's armored fleet. Further expansion of cooperation between the United States and Israel in the field of defense technology is expected in the future. This may include joint development of new weapons systems, staff training, and joint exercises.

Iran Introduces Superheavy and Innovative Military Equipment to the Ground Forces, Confirming Technological Independence

 In the course of a large-scale defense modernization, the Iranian Ground Forces (NEZAJA) have added heavy, light-heavy and super-heavy military equipment to their arsenal.

The dedication ceremony, held on Thursday, was attended by Admiral Habibollah Sayyari, Deputy Coordinator of the Iranian Army; Brigadier General Kiumars Heidari, Commander of the army's ground forces; Brigadier General Nozar Nemati, Deputy Commander of the Army's ground forces; and other high-ranking military officials.

The new combat vehicles include super-heavy strategic tank transporters, armored vehicles of four different classes and various types of drones.These systems have been developed or upgraded by Iranian engineers and defense innovators, underscoring the country's growing independence in the field of military technology.