Israel to allocate 1.5 billion dollars for the production of tanks and armored personnel carriers

The Israeli Ministry of Defense has approved a large-scale plan to modernize and expand the fleet of armored vehicles at the expense of local production. 1.5 billion dollars will be allocated for the implementation of the program over the next five years.

The funds will be used to increase the pace of production of key types of armored vehicles developed and manufactured in the country. First of all, it is planned to increase the production of Merkava Mk.4 Barak tanks, Namer armored personnel carriers and Eitan wheeled armored personnel carriers.

Special attention is paid to equipping new vehicles with modern weapons, including turrets with 30 mm cannons, which significantly increases the firepower and versatility of vehicles in combat. Such weapons are effective against infantry, light armored vehicles, and low-flying aerial targets.

The program is aimed at strengthening the combat readiness of the ground forces, replacing outdated models and ensuring technological superiority on the battlefield. Increasing the fleet of armored vehicles will also increase the level of protection of crews and infantry in modern conflicts.

Raytheon has received a $258 million U.S. Navy contract for the development and production of SM-2 missiles

Tucson, Arizona-based Raytheon has signed a major new contract with the U.S. Navy worth about $258 million. Under this contract, Raytheon will be engaged in the engineering development, production and refinement of Standard Missile 2 (SM-2) Block IIICU All Up Round missiles.

The SM-2 is considered one of the main anti-aircraft protection systems for US Navy ships. These missiles are effective for repelling attacks from enemy aircraft and anti-ship missiles at ranges up to 90 nautical miles and altitudes up to 20 kilometers.

Work under the contract is expected to be completed by September 2031. About 72% of the work will be carried out in Tucson, while the rest will be carried out at facilities in Connecticut, Great Britain, Utah and other places. The contract includes options to expand financing with a possible total of up to $263 million.

This project is in addition to the $344 million contract received by Raytheon in April this year, which was related to the integration and testing of the same SM-2 missile system. All of this highlights the continued interest and growing role of the SM-2 system as a key defense echelon for U.S. Navy ships.

SM-2 missiles are successfully used not only in the United States, but also by allies around the world, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan and other countries. This complex remains an important element of a multi-level marine protection system for several more decades.

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.

The US Marine Corps officially launches the Valkyrie program — new variants of the MQ-58 drone in development

The US Marine Corps has decided to make the Valkyrie drone program, known as the MQ-58, full-fledged and official. It used to be an experimental project, but now the Valkyrie is becoming the first mass-produced unmanned combat aircraft (CCA) to officially enter service with the Marine Corps.

Kratos is already preparing for a new stage of production of these drones to meet the needs of the Marines. In addition, cooperation with Airbus is planned, which may help with the development and production of new variants of the MQ-58.

So Valkyrie has great prospects ahead — it will turn into a full-fledged combat system that will perform various tasks tactically and strategically. These drones will give the Marines new capabilities for reconnaissance, support, and strikes, helping to make operations more efficient and safer.

The US government has instructed Lockheed Martin to increase production of PAC-3 MSE anti—aircraft missiles for Patriot systems - the current pace has already been achieved

The US government plans to increase production of PAC-3 MSE anti-aircraft missiles for Patriot air defense systems. Under the current contract, Lockheed Martin is required to produce about 650 interceptors per year until 2027, and this goal has already been achieved in recent months. 

Moreover, in April 2025, the US Army Requirements Oversight Board approved an increase in the purchase plans of the PAC-3 MSE by almost four times — from 3,376 thousand to 13,773 units, which significantly exceeds the current production rate. This dramatic expansion is due to the need to quickly replenish the empty arsenal of missiles and the Allied support program, including the allocation of funds for the purchase of missiles for Ukraine.

At the same time, the production of PAC-3 MSE missiles is currently estimated at about 550-650 units per year, and Lockheed Martin plans to increase production by 20% in 2025, which will help increase the rate of replenishment, but it is not worth expecting immediate full satisfaction of large-scale orders yet.

In addition, some of the production processes of the PAC-3 MSE missile components are being transferred and expanded in NATO countries, for example, cooperation with Spain on the production of specialized cables and harnesses, which helps to increase production capacity and create new jobs in the allied countries.

Thus, the US government is actually initiating a continuous significant increase in the production of the PAC-3 MSE in order to upgrade and expand the capabilities of national and allied missile defense, based on Lockheed Martin's current good performance and plans to scale production.

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

Lockheed Martin is modernizing Javelin production, increasing output by 50%

The American defense corporation Lockheed Martin is actively modernizing the Javelin anti-tank missile production line. The company currently produces about 2,400 rockets per year, but by the end of 2026 it plans to increase the volume to 3,960 units, which is almost 50% more.  

For this purpose, new technologies, equipment and testing systems are being introduced, which will speed up and improve the production process. For example, in May 2025, a new component quality control station was launched at a plant in Troy, Alabama. It replaces the old systems and allows you to more accurately check how the individual parts of the rocket interact. Modern software solutions such as SystemLink are also used to help analyze data and improve product quality.

The company is installing 24 new test stations at three key locations:

- 14 in Troy,  

- 8 — in Ocala (Florida),  

- 2 — to Huntsville (Alabama).  

This will reduce equipment downtime, speed up production, and increase throughput. It is also important that the new stations are protected at a level that meets modern cybersecurity requirements.

Modernization affects not only the plant itself, but also the supply chain. The company works closely with suppliers to improve the quality of components and speed up production. This is especially important given the growing demand for Javelin both in the United States and abroad, especially in Europe and Ukraine.

Lockheed Martin has signed a major contract with the US Army, which could amount to up to $7.2 billion in the period 2023-2026. The terms of the contract include the supply of an unlimited number of missiles, which underlines the strategic importance of Javelin for future military operations.

Javelin production modernization is not just about increasing volumes, but updating the entire system: from automation and testing to quality control and cybersecurity. This will reduce costs, increase missile reliability, and accelerate deliveries to both the U.S. Army and FMS partners, including Ukraine.  

This approach confirms that the Javelin remains one of the key elements of modern anti-tank weapons in the world.

The U.S. Air Force will receive two B-21 Raiders in 2026

The US military has officially confirmed that in fiscal year 2026, the US Air Force will receive the first two B-21 Raider strategic bombers, new stealth aircraft designed to form the basis of the country's nuclear triad potential in the coming decades.  

These vehicles will arrive in the so-called "test configuration", that is, they will not be fully operational immediately. But at the same time, they will meet all production standards and will be able to be quickly put into combat mode — for example, by removing unnecessary equipment such as a test nose beam.

Production of the B-21 will take place at the Northrop Grumman plant in Palmdale, California, which is one of the most closed and technologically advanced aerospace plants in the United States.  

The budget for 2026 allocated 10.3 billion dollars to expand production and accelerate the release of the B-21, of which about 4.5 billion will be spent on increasing the production of these aircraft.  

Currently, it is planned to produce 7-8 bombers per year, and the total number of ordered vehicles may range from 100 to 145 units. It depends on how events develop and how quickly production can be established.

The first B-21s will provide partial combat readiness, and full-scale mass deployment will begin in the following years. This is important because the B-21 is not just an upgrade, but a qualitatively new aircraft capable of carrying both conventional and nuclear weapons, while remaining virtually invisible to radar.

So we can say that the era of new strategic bombers begins next year, and the B—21 Raider will become its symbol.

B—21 Raider

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.

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

 

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

Basic details of the contract

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

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

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

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

The importance of the contract for European security

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

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

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

Prospects and market impact

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

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

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

Return to Soviet scale: Russia is on its way to mass production of T-80 and T-90 tanks

The Russian defense sector is actively modernizing, striving to return to the production levels of armored vehicles typical of the late Soviet era. According to the Conflict Intelligence Team, by the middle of 2028, the production volume of new main battle tanks could reach 1,000 units per year, and by 2035, it could increase to a staggering 3,000 vehicles per year. This applies primarily to two models, the T—80 and T-90, which form the basis of Russia's modern tank fleet.

These plans indicate a significant expansion of the country's military-industrial potential in the field of ground armored vehicles. Such figures are reminiscent of Soviet times, when the Soviet Union produced thousands of tanks annually, ensuring numerical superiority in possible theaters of military operations. Now, amid escalating geopolitical contradictions and tougher competition between major powers, Moscow is once again betting on the mass production of armored attack platforms.

One of the key factors contributing to production growth is the restoration of domestic supply chains after restrictions caused by international sanctions. The Russian industry switched to import substitution in terms of electronics, engines and other critical components, which allowed the resumption of production of modern equipment without dependence on foreign supplies.

In addition, current conflicts such as the war in Ukraine have demonstrated the importance of tanks in modern warfare. Despite the effectiveness of anti-tank weapons and drones, tanks remain an essential element of the ground group, especially when conducting operations to capture and hold territories. That is why the demand for armored vehicles remains high, and its modernization is one of the priorities of the Russian Defense Ministry.

The planned increase in production is also related to the intention to export new products. Russia continues to supply tanks to countries in Asia, Africa, and the Middle East, where there remains interest in relatively inexpensive and reliable Soviet/Russian-designed systems. Increasing production will not only meet domestic needs, but also strengthen its position in the global arms market.

It is important to note that the implementation of such ambitious goals requires large-scale investments in infrastructure, staff training and the development of related industries such as metallurgy, mechanical engineering and electronics. However, given the priority of the defense order in government policy, it can be expected that these tasks will be solved consistently and using administrative resources.

Thus, Russia is taking decisive steps to restore its tank potential. If the forecasts of the Conflict Intelligence Team come true, the country will indeed be able to return to the volumes that were previously available only during the Cold War. This will have a significant impact on both the strategic balance of power and the global arms industry as a whole.

South Korea's KAI has received a second contract for the production of 20 KF-21 Boramae fighters worth 2.39 trillion won

Korea Aerospace Industries Co. (KAI) has announced the signing of a second major contract with the Office of the South Korean Defense Procurement Program (DAPA) for the production of 20 additional KF-21 Boramae fighters of its own production. The value of the agreement is about 2.39 trillion won (1.76 billion US dollars).

The main details of the contract

- The contract includes not only aircraft production, but also logistical support — technical manuals and training programs for pilots and technicians.

- Delivery of the first 20 fighters under the first contract is scheduled for the second half of 2026.

- According to the plan, a total of 40 KF-21 aircraft will be delivered by 2028.

- The overall goal is to produce 120 KF-21 fighters by 2032.

The KF-21 is a 4.5 generation multi—role fighter developed by South Korea in collaboration with Indonesia. The aircraft is designed to replace the outdated F-4, F-5, KF-16 and F-15K models in the South Korean Air Force. It is equipped with two General Electric F414 engines, is capable of speeds up to Mach 1.8 and carries a wide range of weapons, including guided missiles and bombs.

The KF-21 program symbolizes the significant progress of the South Korean aerospace industry and the country's desire for technological independence in the field of defense. The fighter combines modern avionics, sensors and multi-purpose capabilities, while remaining more affordable than its fifth-generation counterparts.

The KF-21 has already attracted interest from several countries, including Poland, Peru, and the United Arab Emirates, which view it as an alternative to more expensive Western fifth-generation fighters.

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

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

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

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

Rheinmetall and General Dynamics have received approval to continue developing a replacement for the M2 Bradley combat vehicle

M2A3 Bradley

American companies Rheinmetall and General Dynamics Land Systems (GDLS) have received official approval from the US Army to continue developing a new combat vehicle that will replace the aging M2 Bradley armored personnel carrier. This decision was made after a thorough and critical analysis of the projects of both companies, which was confirmed by three independent sources, including representatives of the industry and the army.

Stage B is a key step in the development of the XM30

The approval concerns the transition to stage B, which includes the development and production of prototypes (Engineering and Manufacturing Development — EMD). This stage is one of the most important in the process of creating a new combat vehicle, as it involves detailed design development, prototype manufacturing and testing, as well as preparation for mass production.

The XM30 project, which is being developed by Rheinmetall and GDLS, is designed to be a modern and more efficient replacement for the M2 Bradley, one of the main infantry fighting vehicles in the US Army, which has been in operation since the 1980s. The new vehicle will be equipped with improved armor, modern fire control systems, increased mobility and the integration of digital technologies for combat in modern conditions.

Competitive selection and analysis of projects

The decision to move to stage B was made on Wednesday after a detailed analysis and comparison of the technical characteristics, capabilities and prospects of both companies. Experts noted that the Rheinmetall and GDLS projects demonstrate a high level of innovation and meet the army's requirements for improving combat effectiveness and crew safety.

The approval of Stage B means that both companies will be able to start building XM30 prototypes, which will subsequently be subjected to field testing and evaluation. Based on the results of these tests, a decision will be made on choosing the final version for mass production.

The importance of the project for the US Army

The replacement of the M2 Bradley is one of the priorities of the US Army as part of the modernization of armored vehicles. Modern threats and changing combat conditions require equipment with improved protection, firepower, and network integration capabilities.

The XM30 project will significantly increase the combat capability of infantry units, provide better protection for personnel and increase the effectiveness of interaction on the battlefield. In addition, the introduction of modern technologies will reduce operating costs and simplify maintenance.

Prospects and next steps

After the completion of stage B and successful testing of prototypes, the US Army will decide to launch mass production of a new combat vehicle. The XM30 is expected to gradually replace the M2 Bradley in service, which will be an important step in the development of the ground forces and strengthening the country's defense capability.

Thus, the approval of Phase B for Rheinmetall and General Dynamics Land Systems marks the beginning of a new stage in the development of U.S. armored vehicles and reflects the army's commitment to innovation and improving the effectiveness of the armed forces.

Rheinmetall Denel Munition has received major contracts for the supply of 155 mm artillery ammunition

 On June 3, 2025, Rheinmetall Denel Munition, the South African subsidiary of the German company Rheinmetall, announced that it had received two contracts from an unnamed international customer for the supply of 155 mm artillery ammunition with a total value reported to be in the double-digit range of millions of euros. The orders include the supply of 155 mm Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) artillery shells, associated propellant charges and fuses. Rheinmetall Denel Munition will handle all aspects of production within the company, including both energy and mechanical components. These new orders are part of a broader surge in demand caused by the deteriorating global security situation, which has dramatically increased consumption and purchase of 155 mm artillery ammunition.

Unprecedented field trials of mobile microfabric for drone production on the front line

Microfabric for drone production

On June 2, 2025, unique field tests of a mobile microfabric capable of producing drones directly on the front line began. This autonomous system was developed by the startup Per Se Systems from the French city of Perigueux and is an innovative solution for the operational provision of troops with unmanned aerial vehicles.

The microfabric is equipped with several 3D printers working simultaneously on a trailer, which makes it possible to produce FPV drones (first-person view) in just three hours. With this performance, the system can produce up to ten drones per hour, ensuring stable and localized supply without having to rely on traditional industrial logistics chains.

This innovation significantly increases the mobility and autonomy of units, allowing them to quickly replace equipment losses and adapt to changing combat conditions. The ability to produce drones right on the front line reduces the delivery time and reduces the risks associated with transportation.

The United States launches full-scale production of the upgraded B61-13 nuclear aerial bomb

B61-13 nuclear aerial bomb

The United States has announced the start of full-scale production of the upgraded B61-13 nuclear aerial bomb, which will start in July 2025. This was announced by the US National Nuclear Safety Agency (NNSA). The new version of the aerial bomb has a capacity of up to 360 kilotons, making it one of the most powerful warheads in the American nuclear arsenal.

The B61-13 is an upgrade of the previous variants of the B61 family, which were developed during the Cold War and have been updated several times since. The main improvements include increased accuracy thanks to a modern guided tail unit, as well as increased explosive power, which effectively hits fortified and large military installations.

Production of the B61-13 is proceeding at high speed — the first munition was assembled almost a year ahead of schedule. This demonstrates the priority of the US nuclear arsenal modernization program in the face of deteriorating global security and growing nuclear threats from Russia, China and North Korea.

The new aerial bomb will be used by the US strategic aviation and deployed at bases in the continental part of the country. At the same time, the number of warheads in the arsenal will not increase, as the B61-13 will replace outdated models, while providing enhanced deterrence capabilities.

Senior representatives of the Department of Energy and the National Agency for Nuclear Safety emphasize that the modernization of nuclear weapons is necessary to maintain the technological superiority and security of the United States, as well as to provide the president with additional options in the field of strategic deterrence.

Rheinmetall and Reliance Defense have entered into a strategic partnership in the field of ammunition production

The German defense company Rheinmetall and the Indian Reliance Defense have announced the start of strategic cooperation in the field of ammunition supplies. The official launch of the partnership was the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) representatives of both companies.

The central element of the agreement was the announcement by Reliance of plans to establish a new manufacturing facility in the Watad Industrial Area located in Ratnagiri district, Maharashtra, India. This company will specialize in the production of modern ammunition, which will strengthen the country's defense sector and increase exports of military products.

Cooperation with Rheinmetall, one of the leading European developers of weapons and security systems, provides India with access to advanced technologies and production standards. In turn, the German company gets the opportunity to expand its presence in the rapidly growing Indian arms market and participate in the implementation of the "Made in India" program aimed at developing local production.

This partnership can be an important step in modernizing the Indian defense industry and strengthening its role in the international arena.

Rheinmetall and Lockheed Martin have agreed to jointly manufacture ATACMS and Patriot PAC-3 missiles in Europe

 

The German defense concern Rheinmetall has announced plans to establish large-scale production of high-precision missiles ATACMS (Army Tactical Missile System) and Patriot PAC-3 air defense systems on European territory. The American company Lockheed Martin, one of the world's leading developers and manufacturers of weapons, is a partner in the project.

According to Rheinmetall CEO Armin Papperger, active negotiations are currently underway between the companies to establish a joint venture in which the German side intends to receive a 60 percent stake. Such a structure will ensure not only local production, but also control over supply chains, which is especially important in the context of growing demand for weapons among NATO countries.

The deployment of missile system production facilities in Europe is designed to meet the needs of the alliance's countries, which are faced with a shortage of ammunition after large-scale supplies to Ukraine and accelerated rearmament of their own armies. In particular, ATACMS missiles and Patriot complexes remain among the most sought-after weapons of destruction and air defense.

In addition, such a step could become an important element of the EU's strategy to diversify and strengthen its own defense industry, reducing dependence on exclusively American supplies.

It is expected that the implementation of the project will stimulate the development of high-tech infrastructure, create new jobs and strengthen Rheinmetall's position as one of the key players in the European arms market.

The United States launches the B61-13 gravity nuclear bomb

The United States is launching the latest B61-13 gravity nuclear bomb

The American Sandia National Laboratory (SNL) has unveiled the latest gravitational nuclear bomb B61-13, the serial production of which started 7 months ahead of schedule. It was developed as part of a 2023 project by the U.S. Department of Energy's National Nuclear Safety Administration.

The B61-13 is a continuation of the concept of the previous B61—7 and B61-12 models, but with updated security systems that exclude outside interference in the actuation mechanism. In addition, the B61-13 is equipped with a power-controlled warhead, which allows its power to be programmed from 10 to 360 kt.

This makes it possible to use it both against conventional targets with minimal damage, and to destroy large buried objects. The bomb will be equipped with a tail unit, which will turn it into a homing precision weapon launched from an aircraft before it enters the enemy's air defense zone. The carrier of the B61-13 will initially be the B-2 Spirit bomber. In the future, it will be replaced by the promising stealth bomber B-21 "Raider".