Bright Star-25: The United States and Egypt gathered 40 countries for the largest exercises in the region

Where and how the exercises started

On August 28, the official opening ceremony of the Bright Star-25 exercises was held at the Mohamed Naguib military base in Egypt. From that moment on, a series of large-scale operations began, involving military personnel from all over the world. The base, built on the border with Libya, was not chosen by chance — it is one of the largest in North Africa and is ideal for large-scale maneuvers.

This is no longer just a bilateral exercise between the United States and Egypt. This is a global event that over the years has become one of the key elements of military diplomacy in the Middle East.

Why does the United States need such large-scale games

The Central Command of the US Armed Forces (CENTCOM), responsible for the Middle East, Africa and part of Asia, sees the Bright Star not just as a training exercise, but as a tool for strengthening alliances. The exercises show that the United States remains engaged in the region, supports strategic partners and is ready to act together.

For Egypt, this is a confirmation of the status of a key player. For the United States, it is an opportunity to keep the threads of influence without deploying large forces on a permanent basis.

Who is involved — from NATO to Asia

This year, more than 40 countries are involved in the exercises. Among them are NATO members, the Arab states of the Persian Gulf, African countries, and even military personnel from Asia. About 1,800 American military personnel work side by side with colleagues from other armies.

Such a composition is rare. Usually, exercises bring together either Western allies or regional partners. There are both here. This suggests that the Bright Star is no longer just a regional event. It is becoming an international standard for compatibility and interoperability.

Not just shooting, but preparing for real scenarios

The exercises cover everything from field maneuvers to command and staff games. Both conventional combat operations and counteraction to guerrilla formations, terrorist threats, and cyber attacks are being practiced. What matters is not so much the number of shots fired as the quality of the interaction — how orders are transmitted, how actions are coordinated, and how language and technical barriers are resolved.

This is not a rehearsal for war, but a resilience training. Because in a real conflict, the winner is not the one with the most tanks, but the one who knows how to work together better.

Sources

1. U.S. Department of Defense — Bright Star 25 official opening and overview
2. DVIDS — Bright Star 25 multinational exercise details
3. Wikipedia — Exercise Bright Star history and data
4. The Jerusalem Post — Bright Star 25 begins in Egypt
5. U.S. Embassy Egypt — Bright Star exercise information

AI and nuclear buttons: Why artificial intelligence will inevitably enter command centers — and what it means for humanity

Artificial intelligence is no longer just helping to analyze data — it's heading straight for nuclear missiles. And the experts gathered at a conference in Chicago in July 2025, including Nobel laureates and leading nuclear safety experts, say the same thing: AI control over nuclear systems is not if, but when.  

As Bob Latiff, a retired major general in the US Air Force and a member of the Science and Security Council of the Bulletin of Atomic Scientists, said at the meeting.:  

 "It's like electricity —  it gets into everything."

And he's right. Already today, the nuclear arsenals of the leading powers are using early forms of AI and automation. The machines analyze satellite images, track the movements of enemy submarines, process radio signals and help commanders make decisions. This is necessary because the amount of data has become so huge that a person simply does not have time to process everything. Plus— AI, in theory, does not panic, does not get tired and does not make decisions under the pressure of emotions.

But that's where the most dangerous part begins.

What if the algorithm makes a mistake? What if he mistakes an ordinary weather balloon for a rocket or a supersonic plane for the beginning of a massive strike? In conditions of nuclear deterrence, where a decision must be made in minutes, one AI mistake can lead to a nuclear response — and without the possibility of cancellation. This is not fiction. This is a real risk, especially if the systems are implemented in pursuit of speed rather than reliability.

Right now, the AI is not pressing the start button yet. The person remains in the decision-making chain. But more and more functions, from threat detection to goal prioritization, are being transferred to machines. And experts are sounding the alarm: if we don't stop in time, we may find ourselves in a situation where a person will simply sign what the AI has already decided.

Therefore, the main slogan of the conference is "man must remain at the center of the solution." It is necessary to maintain human control at all key stages. And this means abandoning the practice of "warning launch", when missiles launch even before the impact is confirmed. It is necessary to give more time for analysis in order to avoid a disaster due to a false alarm.

In addition, it is required:

- Transparency in how algorithms work.

- Training for operators so that they understand when the AI is lying.

- International rules — agreements on how and where AI can be used in nuclear systems.

Because the problem is not only in technology. It's also about speed. Modern conflicts are moving faster: drones, cyber attacks, autonomous systems. AI accelerates everything from detection to response. And this, combined with misinformation and panic, can lead to an unintended escalation — when one mistake leads to another, and as a result, the world finds itself on the verge of nuclear winter.

So yes, AI can make weapon control more accurate and safer. But without strict supervision, ethics, and international cooperation, it is equally likely to be the trigger.  

As Latiff said, he will enter into everything. The task of humanity is to prevent it from entering a place where it cannot be mistaken.

The US Army wants to strengthen its air defense and missile defense forces by 30% due to new threats

 

The US Army is going to increase its air and missile defense forces by about 30%," the commander of the Space and Missile Defense Command said. This decision is due to the fact that threats from countries like China and Russia are growing — they are actively strengthening their potential in space and developing new rocket technologies.

This increase in air defense and missile defense capabilities will help better detect, track, and intercept air and missile targets, which will enhance security both in space and on Earth. In addition, the command is working closely with allies and industrial partners to implement modern technologies faster and expand logistical support.

As a result, all this is aimed at making air and missile defense systems more reliable, operational and sustainable in the face of constantly changing challenges. An important part of this strategy is the development of new capabilities to protect against complex threats, including missiles and hypersonic weapons.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

A new concept for combating drones in the Swedish Armed Forces

 

The Swedish Armed Forces, in close collaboration with the Defense Logistics Directorate (FMV) and industry partners, have introduced a new concept for countering unmanned aerial vehicles (UAS), which aims to ensure the safety of ground targets from the growing threat from drones. This initiative was an important step in modernizing the Swedish defense system, especially in the context of the increasing role of UAVs in modern warfare.

The concept was first demonstrated during live firing at the Tofta range, located on the island of Gotland, a strategically important area where key military exercises and tests are conducted. During the exercise, the recruits successfully repelled several drone attacks in difficult weather conditions, which highlights the readiness and effectiveness of new technologies and tactics. These tests have shown a high degree of integration between different levels of defense and demonstrate how the Swedish Armed Forces are adapting to a rapidly changing global situation.

The new concept is based on the use of advanced detection systems, electronic warfare and drone fire destruction. It also includes training personnel to work with modern air defense systems and the introduction of automated response systems. This allows not only to neutralize the threat, but also to minimize the risk to the civilian population and infrastructure.

Sweden, as a member of NATO and an active participant in international peacekeeping operations, pays great attention to the development of its defense capability, especially after recent geopolitical events in Europe. The development of anti-UAV capabilities is part of a broader strategy to strengthen national defense and improve coordination between the various branches of the Armed Forces. 

In addition, the participation of industry partners in the development of this concept indicates the government's desire to create an effective ecosystem of interaction between government agencies and the private sector. This makes it possible to bring innovative solutions to the market faster and maintain a high level of combat readiness of troops.

International exercises in Switzerland on joint measurements of radioactivity using helicopters

International exercises organized by the Federal Office of Civil Defense (FOPS) are taking place in Switzerland this week. They are attended by experts from France, Germany, the Czech Republic, Lithuania and Switzerland itself. The main objective of the exercise is to develop joint methods for rapid and effective measurement of radioactivity in large areas using helicopters.

The use of helicopters makes it possible to quickly survey vast areas, which is especially important in case of emergencies related to radioactive contamination. The joint efforts of international teams contribute to the exchange of experience, professional development and improved coordination in responding to potential radiation threats.

F-35A fighters of the Royal Netherlands Air Force participate in the Baana 25 exercises in Finland

Fifth-generation F-35A Lightning II fighters of the Royal Netherlands Air Force took part in the international Baana 25 exercises taking place in Finland. This year, for the first time, the exercises include operations on the highway, an important element of preparation for combat operations in conditions of limited infrastructure.

The Dutch F-35A operated in conjunction with Finnish Air Force aircraft, including F/A-18 Hornets, combat training Hawks and light transport Learjet. The exercises are aimed at working out the interaction of various types of aircraft in difficult conditions, including rapid deployment and the use of roads as runways.

The Baana 25 demonstrates a high level of coordination and compatibility between NATO allied forces and partners, which is especially important in the northern regions with their unique climatic and geographical features. The use of the F-35A makes it possible to practice modern air combat tactics and integrate advanced technologies into joint operations.

Finland, which recently joined NATO, is actively developing cooperation with its allies, and the Baana exercises serve as a platform for strengthening defense readiness and sharing experiences between countries.

Saab has signed a contract with Canada for the supply of the Carl-Gustaf M4 portable air defense system

Carl-Gustaf M4

Saab has officially signed a contract with the Government of Canada for the supply of the Carl-Gustaf M4 portable multipurpose weapon system. This important event coincided with Saab's participation in CANSEC 2025, Canada's largest defense and security exhibition, which will be held on May 28 and 29 in Ottawa.

The order includes not only the Carl-Gustaf M4 weapon itself, but also the Fire Control Device (FCD) model 558, which significantly increases the effectiveness of the complex on the battlefield. This contract strengthens the long-term partnership between Saab and Canada, demonstrating trust in the Swedish manufacturer and its technology.

The Carl-Gustaf M4 system is a modern, lightweight and versatile weapon capable of effectively hitting a wide range of targets, from armored vehicles to fortified positions and enemy manpower. Due to its high mobility and ease of use, the complex is widely used in the armies of many countries around the world.

Canada's joining the ranks of users of the latest generation of Carl-Gustaf demonstrates the desire of the Canadian armed forces to modernize their capabilities and increase the combat effectiveness of infantry. Saab continues to expand its presence in the international market, offering advanced solutions for modern military tasks.

NIBE Limited has received a large export order from an Israeli technology company

NIBE Limited, a leading Indian manufacturer of critical defense systems, has announced the receipt of a significant export contract worth 17.52 million US dollars. The order came from a world-renowned leading technology company from Israel, which highlights the high level of trust and recognition of NIBE products in the international defense technology market.

This contract is an important milestone in the development of NIBE Limited, strengthening its position as a key player in the field of defense production. The supply of equipment and systems for this order will expand cooperation between India and Israel in the field of high-tech defense solutions.

NIBE Limited specializes in the development and manufacture of mission-critical systems used in the most advanced defense complexes. Thanks to innovative technologies and strict quality control, the company ensures the reliability and efficiency of its products, which is especially important for customers from the defense sector.

The export order worth USD 17.52 million demonstrates the growing international demand for NIBE products and opens up new opportunities for further business expansion in the global market. The company plans to complete the order on time, while ensuring high standards of quality and technical support.

Thus, the successful conclusion of this contract strengthens the reputation of NIBE Limited as a reliable partner in the field of defense technology and contributes to the development of strategic cooperation between India and Israel.

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

Modifications of the AGF 2 reconnaissance and combat vehicle

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An international delegation of diplomats and military attaches visited Korea Aerospace Industries as part of a landmark visit

 

K2 Black Panther

As part of a large-scale diplomatic tour, representatives of more than ten countries visited Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in the city of Sacheon. This visit has become an important platform for demonstrating South Korean achievements in the field of the aerospace industry and discussing opportunities for international cooperation.

The delegation included the ambassadors of Greece, New Zealand, Norway, Romania, Saudi Arabia, Slovakia, Thailand and Uzbekistan. Diplomats from Poland, Iraq, Peru and Vietnam also took part, while military attaches from Australia, Colombia and the Philippines joined the participants. Such a wide geographical coverage highlights the growing interest of the international community in South Korea's technological developments.

During the visit, the delegation got acquainted with KAI's production facilities, where modern aviation systems are being created, including T-50 Golden Eagle combat training aircraft, KUH-1 Surion multipurpose helicopters and satellite technologies. The representatives of the countries highly appreciated the level of innovation and the export potential of the company's products.

For Korea Aerospace Industries, this visit was an opportunity to strengthen its position in the international market and discuss prospects for cooperation in the defense and civil sectors. Interest from countries such as Saudi Arabia and Poland may become the basis for new contracts and joint projects.

Experts note that such events help strengthen South Korea's position as a global player in the aerospace industry. It also highlights the country's desire to expand its influence through technological leadership and diplomatic ties.

In addition to this exhibition, Hyundai Rotem and Hanwha Aerospace, key players in the South Korean defense industry, recently demonstrated the K2 Black Panther tank and the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer to international delegations. Ambassadors, diplomats and military attaches from 15 countries visited the facilities of both companies, examining in detail two of their most sought-after products.

Lockheed Martin Europe receives first batch of Patriot PAC-3 MSE launch tubes from Polish WZL-1

 

Patriot PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) Launcher

Lockheed Martin Europe has announced the receipt of the first batch of Patriot PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement (MSE) launchers manufactured by the Polish factory Wojskowe Zakłady Lotnicze Nr. 1 (WZL-1). This event is an important milestone in the growing defense partnership between the United States and Poland.

Details of cooperation

- Lockheed Martin Europe: One of the world's leading companies in the defense industry.

- Polish factory WZL-1: A factory known for the production of high-tech military systems.

-Patriot PAC-3 MSE: This is an advanced missile defense system designed to defend against ballistic and cruise missiles.

This achievement highlights not only the success of Poland's defense modernization strategy, but also its growing credibility as a reliable partner in the global defense industry. As part of this strategy, Poland is actively modernizing its military infrastructure, including the acquisition of new air defense systems and missile systems.

Turkish defense giant Aselsan has signed an export contract worth $ 158.6 million

On Wednesday, the Turkish company Aselsan, one of the largest manufacturers of defense products in the world, announced the conclusion of an export contract worth $ 158.6 million. According to the company's announcement on the Public Disclosure Platform (KAP), the contract was signed with a client from the Middle East and Africa region.

The contract includes direct deliveries of military communications systems. This confirms Aselsan's growing export activity in the region and demonstrates the company's ability to provide advanced technology solutions to foreign customers. In 2024, Aselsan has already signed export contracts worth over $1 billion, which is a record in the company's history.

The nuclear danger of military AI: why the US, China and other countries are looking for agreements

 With the development of artificial intelligence (AI), its use in the military field is becoming more widespread, especially in the nuclear field. However, the use of this technology for military purposes raises serious concerns about nuclear safety, prompting the United States, China and other countries to seek opportunities to conclude relevant agreements.

The use of AI in the military sphere is growing every day, including its use in nuclear command and control (NCC) systems. For example, the US National Safety Council suggests using AI for nuclear early warning, launch detection, and multisensory data integration. However, the vulnerability of AI and the lack of transparency of information processing can increase the risk of misjudging the situation and an unexpected escalation of conflict. In addition, the use of AI in cybersecurity can also pose a threat to nuclear command, control, and communications systems.

Despite the fact that the use of AI in the military sphere carries significant risks, there is still no global consensus on how to effectively manage these risks. For example, the Paris AI Initiative in February 2025 did not receive support from the United States and the United Kingdom. Such disagreements not only hinder the healthy development of AI technologies, but can also lead to a split in the ways AI develops.

To address the risks associated with the use of AI in the nuclear field, the international community must strengthen cooperation. China has always advocated for cooperation and governance mechanisms to ensure the safe and responsible use of AI technologies. China's proposed AI security framework emphasizes the collaboration of all stakeholders to identify, prevent, and respond to risks. In addition, the creation of a testing and evaluation system based on AI risk levels and the introduction of flexible management are also important measures to counter AI risks.

In general, the use of AI technologies in the military field creates new challenges and risks. The international community must join forces to ensure the safe and responsible use of AI technologies through dialogue, cooperation, and regulation.