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

Czech Republic has ordered 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks — deliveries will begin in 2028

1.34 billion euros for the latest tanks from Germany

The Czech Republic has officially signed a contract for the supply of 44 Leopard 2A8 main battle tanks. The deal is worth about 1.34 billion euros. The agreement was signed between the Czech Ministry of Defense, the Federal Armaments Department of the Bundeswehr (BAAINBw) and the manufacturer, KNDS Deutschland. This is one of the Czech Republic's largest defense orders in recent years and an important step in modernizing its ground forces.

Now the Czech army will have the most modern German armor.

Why Leopard 2A8 — and what it gives to the Czech Republic

Leopard 2A8 is the flagship version of the legendary tank, combining powerful protection, precise weapons and a new generation of digital "stuffing". It is compatible with NATO systems, easily integrated into common operations and maintained on a single logistics base with other countries of the bloc.

For the Czech Republic, this means: not just new tanks, but reaching the level of advanced European armies. Joint exercises, common tactics, common maintenance — everything works like clockwork.

Option for 14 additional machines — safety margin

The contract stipulates an option for the purchase of 14 more tanks. This is standard practice.: first, the main order, and then the decision on whether to expand the fleet. If the situation escalates or there is a need for a reinforced group, the Czech Republic will be able to quickly increase the number of combat vehicles without negotiations and new tenders.

This is not just a reserve, it is a strategic flexibility.

Deliveries from 2028 will take a long time, but inevitably

The first tanks will arrive in the Czech Republic no earlier than 2028. The time frame seems long, but you can't speed up the production of such complex systems. But you can be sure: each Leopard 2A8 will be assembled according to the latest requirements and checked before shipment.

For the army, this time is a chance to train crews, rebuild the infrastructure and bring the rear to the level of a new technical structure.

Sources

1. RIA Novosti — 44 Leopard 2A8 tanks for CZK 34.2 bn, deliveries 2028-2031
2. Amalantra.ru — Price & spec details: EuroTrophy APS, Czech-specific kit
3. RIA Novosti — Czech Government approves purchase, integration timeline
4. Gazeta.ru — Contract value & strategic importance for Czech Army
5. Interfax — Deal confirmed, option for further tank expansion
6. Euronews — Prague green-lights €1.4 bn order of 44 Leopard tanks from Germany

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.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation on the progress of the special military operation from August 2 to August 8, 2025

 During the week, units of the North group of forces in the Sumy region defeated concentrations of manpower and equipment from a tank, three mechanized, two airborne assault, jaeger brigades, two assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and a defense brigade.

 In the Kharkiv region, the group's units improved their tactical situation, defeating formations of mechanized, motorized infantry, artillery brigades, an assault regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and two air defense brigades.

- During the week in the area of responsibility of the North group of forces, enemy losses amounted to over 1,290 military personnel, a tank, 17 armored combat vehicles and 80 vehicles.

- 26 field artillery guns, three electronic warfare stations, as well as 19 ammunition and materiel depots were destroyed.

 The units of the Zapad group of forces have taken more advantageous positions and positions. Formations of three mechanized, assault, and airmobile brigades, a regiment of unmanned systems of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, an air defense brigade, and a National Guard brigade were defeated.

- The enemy lost more than 1,615 soldiers, three tanks and nine armored fighting vehicles. 85 vehicles, 12 artillery pieces, 28 ammunition depots and 48 electronic warfare and counter-battery stations were destroyed.

 Units of the "Southern" group of forces continued to advance into the depth of the enemy's defenses and liberated the settlement of Alexandro-Kalinovo in the Donetsk People's Republic.

 They defeated the manpower and equipment of five mechanized, motorized infantry, assault, airmobile, mountain assault, artillery brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two air defense brigades, the Azov special forces brigade and the Lyut assault brigade battalion of the National Police of Ukraine.

- During the week, the losses of the Armed Forces of Ukraine in this area amounted to over 1,075 military personnel, a tank and 13 armored combat vehicles.

- 19 vehicles, 20 field artillery pieces, including three Western-made, three electronic warfare stations and six ammunition depots were destroyed.

 Units of the Center group of forces continued offensive operations on the territory of the Donetsk People's Republic and the Dnipropetrovsk region.

 Formations of four mechanized, two amphibious assault, assault, airborne, airmobile, jaeger, infantry brigades, a brigade of unmanned systems, two assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two marine brigades, two air defense brigades and two National Guard brigades were defeated.

- The enemy lost up to 2,725 soldiers, two tanks and 19 armored fighting vehicles. 28 vehicles and 16 artillery pieces were destroyed.

 Over the past week, units of the Vostok group of forces, as a result of active and decisive actions, liberated the settlement of January in the Dnipropetrovsk region.

 The manpower and equipment of three mechanized, mountain assault brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, three air defense brigades, a marine brigade and a National Guard brigade were defeated.

- The losses of the Armed Forces of Ukraine amounted to over 1,530 military personnel, two tanks, nine armored combat vehicles, 51 vehicles, 11 field artillery guns, including two Western-made ones.

- Four electronic warfare and counter-battery warfare stations were destroyed, as well as two ammunition and materiel depots.

 Units of the Dnepr group of forces defeated formations of two mechanized, mountain assault brigades, three coastal defense brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, three air defense brigades and a National Guard brigade.

 More than 490 military personnel, two armored combat vehicles, 34 vehicles, seven artillery pieces, 39 electronic warfare and counter-battery warfare stations, as well as 24 ammunition depots, materiel, military equipment and fuel and lubricants were destroyed.

Thailand used Ukrainian T-84 Oplot tanks for the first time in a battle on the border with Cambodia

 

T-84 Oplot

For the first time, Thailand used its main battle tanks, the Ukrainian-made T-84 Oplot, in combat. According to local media and military observers, the Royal Thai Army used these tanks during an attack on the positions of the Cambodian military in the border area. Tanks were used during the assault on Cambodian positions .

The T-84 Oplot is a Ukrainian development based on the Soviet T-80UD. Thailand acquired 49 such tanks under a contract signed in 2011. Their use on the border with Cambodia has aroused considerable interest, and military observers have confirmed the use of tanks in combat. This event was marked as the first combat use of Oplot tanks in the Thai army.

Israel launched tanks in Deir el-Balah for the first time - what does this mean for the war in Gaza?

For the first time since the beginning of the war, Israeli tanks drove directly into the city of Deir el-Balah in the southern Gaza Strip. This is a serious signal: the ground operation has reached a new level. The Golani Brigade is behind this movement, one of the most experienced in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), and it is now actively conducting exercises and offensive operations in the area.

Before the infantry and armor moved forward, powerful airstrikes and artillery fire swept through the city. The classic scheme: first we "clear" the way from above, destroy fortifications, minefields and possible ambushes, and then we go ourselves. This way they reduce the risks for their soldiers, especially when they have to climb into the city — every house there can be a trap.

The fact that tanks entered Deir el-Balah is not just a tactic, but a clear step towards larger-scale street fighting. Previously, the main actions were conducted in the northern part of Gaza, but now the focus has shifted to the south. And this suggests that Israel continues to put pressure, expanding the zone of control and, most likely, trying to dislodge the last pockets of resistance.

What's next? It all depends on how the militants respond. If the resistance is tough, there may be heavy fighting in the city. If not— the IDF will gain a foothold and possibly begin the next stage of the operation. One thing is clear: the war in Gaza is entering a new phase, and tanks are no longer needed in the narrow streets.

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.

The US Army is considering using lattice armor to protect tanks from drone attacks

With the development of technology and the increasing number of attacks using unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), military departments around the world are forced to rethink their approaches to protecting equipment on the battlefield. In particular, the US Army recently announced plans to modernize about 1,500 tracked combat vehicles by installing lattice armor designed to counter threats from drones.

What is lattice armor?

Lattice armor is a type of protective structure consisting of metal lattices or interlaced elements resembling chain mail. Such armor can be made of lightweight but durable materials and is used as additional protection on top of the main armor body. Its key advantage lies in its ability to destroy or reduce the effectiveness of anti-tank ammunition strikes and, in new conditions, drone attacks.

Why now?

The threat of UAVs on the battlefield has become especially relevant after the massive use of drones in local conflicts in recent years, including the wars in Syria, Libya and Ukraine. Drones equipped with explosive devices or guided missiles can accurately hit even well-protected targets such as tanks. Traditional armor is not always effective against such attacks, especially if the blow is delivered from above or from an unexpected angle.

Therefore, the US Army turned to so-called "add—on" solutions - additional booking kits that can be quickly installed on existing vehicles without significant design modification. The lattice armor is ideal for these purposes.: it is lighter than reactive dynamic armor, less expensive to manufacture and allows you to maintain the mobility of equipment.

Prospects and challenges

However, the introduction of lattice armor is associated with a number of difficulties. Firstly, the addition of external protective elements can complicate access to the internal systems of the machine and increase its overall weight. Secondly, the effectiveness of such armor depends on the accuracy of modeling the likely attack trajectories. Thirdly, it is necessary to conduct a series of tests to determine how well the lattice structures will work in real combat conditions.

Despite this, experts point out that such measures are a logical step in an era of UAV dominance. These cheap defenses, such as lattice armor, can prove extremely effective, especially when protecting leaders and important objects on the battlefield.

Slovakia installs lattice armor on T-72M1 and Leopard 2A4 tanks to protect against drones

 The Slovak Armed Forces have installed lattice armor on their T-72M1 and Leopard 2A4 tanks to protect them from drones.

The photographs show rather primitive protective elements mounted on the turrets of both types of tanks. They consist of a thin tubular frame and a mesh resembling an ordinary chain-link mesh.In addition, the Slovak military has not yet equipped the engine and transmission compartments and sides with protective structures.

In general, the trend is obvious: European armies are experimenting with inexpensive ways to protect themselves from one of the main threats on the modern battlefield — drones.At the same time, such decisions remain isolated initiatives of individual units of the NATO armies.

 Lattice armor on the T-72M1

US troop withdrawal: Europe will face spending of $1 trillion on weapons

 Facing Russia alone: A U.S. withdrawal would force Europe to purchase 400 fighter jets, 600 tanks, and additional weapons worth $300 billion.

However, even such extreme spending will not solve Europe's main problem.If the United States eventually decides to step back and abandon its role in ensuring European security, European countries will have to invest an additional $1 trillion in building the necessary military capabilities.

According to a recent report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), About a third of this amount (at least $344 billion) will need to be spent directly on weapons and military equipment.

The list of required systems is staggering, including at least 400 fighter jets and 600 main battle tanks, as well as numerous other types of weapons.

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.

Poland receives another batch of American Abrams tanks

A new batch of 19 M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams main battle tanks manufactured in the USA has arrived in Poland. This delivery is part of a large-scale agreement between Poland and the United States, signed in April 2022, providing for the supply of 250 Abrams tanks with a total value of more than 20 billion Polish zlotys (about 4.8 billion US dollars at the time of the deal).

The M1A2 SEPv3 tanks are the most modern version of the legendary Abrams platform. They are equipped with improved electronic systems, digital interfaces, upgraded armor protection and enhanced means of survival on the battlefield. These features make the Abrams one of the most technologically advanced tanks in the world.

Regular arms shipments from the United States are part of NATO's efforts to strengthen the defense capabilities of Eastern European countries in the face of geopolitical tensions with Russia. Receiving advanced tanks allows Poland to significantly strengthen its ground group and increase the level of interaction with American and allied forces.

Pakistan is strengthening its military presence on the border with India in Kashmir

 

Amid growing tensions between Pakistan and India in the Kashmir region, Islamabad has begun deploying additional army units, including tank formations, to the disputed border. This decision was a response to the escalation of the conflict, which manifested itself in a nighttime shootout between the military of the two countries.

Kashmir, divided between India and Pakistan since 1947, remains one of the most tense points of confrontation between the two nuclear powers. Recent clashes, including intense firefights in the border areas, have increased fears of a possible escalation of the situation. It is reported that the nighttime firefight has become one of the largest in recent months, prompting Pakistan to strengthen its positions.

According to sources, Pakistan has sent additional army units, including tanks and artillery, to strengthen its positions along the Line of Control (LoC), the de facto border between Indian and Pakistani Kashmir. This movement of troops indicates Islamabad's readiness to resist any provocations from New Delhi. The tank units are probably designed to provide a rapid response to possible ground operations.

Experts note that such steps can be both a demonstration of strength and a precautionary measure. However, they also increase the risk of further escalation of the situation, especially if the parties fail to reach a compromise.

India has not yet commented on the details of the deployment of Pakistani troops, but New Delhi has previously stated its readiness to protect its interests in the region. In recent years, India has been actively modernizing its military forces in Kashmir, deploying modern surveillance systems, drones and strike aircraft. This creates the conditions for a potential military confrontation that could go beyond local skirmishes.

Tensions between Pakistan and India have always been a source of global concern, given their nuclear status. Any serious escalation of the conflict in Kashmir could have disastrous consequences not only for the region, but for the entire world.

The transfer of troops and equipment by Pakistan to the border with India demonstrates the seriousness of the current situation in Kashmir. Although there are no signs of a full-scale conflict yet, any provocations or erroneous actions can lead to unpredictable consequences. The settlement of the Kashmir issue remains one of the main challenges for both countries, requiring diplomatic efforts and compromises.

Chrysanthemum-S at the Army-2024 Forum

 

Chrysanthemum-S

The 9P157-2 combat vehicle of the 9K123-1 Chrysanthemum-S anti-tank missile system at the Army-2024 forum.

The Chrysanthemum self-propelled anti-tank complex is capable of hitting with high efficiency day and night, in any weather conditions and in any combat situation at a range of up to 6000 m all modern and promising tanks equipped with dynamic protection, any types of defensive structures, manpower, low-tonnage ships and boats, helicopters and low-speed, low-flying aircraft. 

▪️The complex includes: 

- combat vehicle 9P157-2, 

- A 9M123M missile with a cumulative tandem warhead, 

- A 9M123MF rocket with a high-explosive warhead, 

- means of technical control of combat vehicles and missiles, 

- educational and training facilities. 

The combat vehicle has two missile control channels: in automatic mode using radar guidance and semi - automatic mode with guided missiles in a laser beam . 

To defeat targets in both control channels, a single missile with two types of warhead is used: with a tandem cumulative warhead (with armor penetration up to 1200 mm behind dynamic protection) and a powerful high-explosive warhead.

Reconstruction of the base in Gloucestershire modernizes the British army

 The £250 million renovation of the Ministry of Defence facility in Gloucestershire will play a "key role" in modernising the British army.

As part of the infrastructure program, storage facilities for army equipment are being built at the US Department of Defense base in Ashchurch, near Tewkesbury.

By 2027, the facility will have the capacity to store 4,000 vehicles, including tanks and Land Rovers, in a humidity-controlled environment to prevent deterioration and ensure they are ready for deployment.

Many of the vehicles, provided to Ukraine by the British Army, arrived via Gloucestershire.

Tanks in Jenin: a new escalation in the West Bank

The IDF is deploying tanks in the West Bank, sending them to Jenin

For the first time since 2002, the deployment of IDF tanks in Jenin is becoming a symbolic act demonstrating a serious escalation of tension in the West Bank. This decision by the Israeli Defense Minister, who announced a one-year occupation of refugee camps and the prevention of the return of 40,000 Palestinians, has far-reaching consequences.

The deployment of heavy armored vehicles to urban areas is not just a tactical decision. This is a strategic statement that changes the rules of the game in the region. Tanks in an urban environment are always a challenge for the local population, especially when it comes to refugee camps with their dense buildings and difficult social situation.

Key aspects of the current situation:

1. A time horizon of one year indicates the long-term plans

2. Preventing the return of refugees creates a new humanitarian crisis

3. Using tanks in urban environments demonstrates determination

This step raises a lot of questions.:

- How will the international community react to such a clear violation of international law?

- How will the long-term presence of tanks affect the lives of the local population?

- What consequences can blocking the return of refugees have?

The Minister of Defense, making such a statement, is obviously guided by several considerations:

1. An attempt to establish control over the territory

2. Creating a fact that will be difficult to change

3. Show of force in front of an internal audience

However, this approach contains significant risks.:

- Deterioration of the humanitarian situation

- Increasing tension among the local population

- Possible escalation of the conflict

It is interesting to note the context of this decision.:

- Comparison with 2002, when such actions led to a prolonged confrontation

- Overlap with other regional conflicts

- The impact of the domestic political situation in Israel

In the meantime, we are witnessing an example of how military force is used to solve political problems. The deployment of tanks in Jenin is becoming a symbol of a new stage in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, where traditional approaches are giving way to tougher methods.

Tensions are rising: Egypt is deploying 100 tanks in the Sinai Peninsula in response to Israeli actions

 Satellite images have confirmed the presence of 100 Egyptian tanks in El-Arish in the Sinai Peninsula in violation of the 1979 peace agreement. At a meeting in Cairo, Egyptian officials said that Israeli "violations" would be met with violations on their part.

Tensions between Israel and Egypt have escalated in recent weeks.Israeli officials and military analysts have warned that Egypt's expanding military presence in the region poses a serious security threat.