Analysis & Reports

European NATO members significantly increased military spending in 2025, with Germany's budget rising 24% to $114 billion and Spain's by 50% to $40.2 billion. This rearmament is driven by the ongoing war in Ukraine and reduced U.S. engagement. Poland leads NATO with 4.5% of GDP allocated to defense, while the alliance aims for a 5% target by 2035.

Alexandra ReevesTue Apr 28 2026Loading...

ARX Robotics and Supacat signed a Memorandum of Understanding in London to develop autonomous ground vehicles for military use. This partnership aims to integrate robotic systems into future land operations, enhancing the capabilities of the UK and allied forces. The Jackal high-mobility vehicle is identified for optionally crewed conversion, allowing existing platforms to operate autonomously. The collaboration is shaped by operational lessons from recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine, and aligns with the UK Government's Strategic Defence Review priorities.

Global military spending is projected to reach $2.887 trillion in 2025, driven by ongoing conflicts and geopolitical shifts. The U.S. military budget is expected to decrease to $954 billion, while European NATO members will see a 14% increase in spending. In Asia-Pacific, military expenditures are set to rise by 8.1%, with Japan's defense budget reaching its highest GDP proportion since 1958.

Global military spending reached a record high of nearly $2.9 trillion in 2025, driven by significant increases in Europe and Asia. European military expenditure surged 14% to $864 billion, while U.S. spending declined by 7.5% to $954 billion due to a lack of new military assistance for Ukraine. China and Taiwan also reported substantial increases in their military budgets, reflecting ongoing regional tensions.

Global military spending reached a record high of nearly $2.9 trillion in 2025, driven by a 14% increase in Europe. The U.S. saw a 7.5% decline in military expenditure, while China and Ukraine reported significant increases in their defense budgets. NATO members collectively spent $1.581 trillion, accounting for 55% of global military spending, amid concerns over transparency and accounting practices.

Ukraine's military intelligence has disclosed detailed information about the S-71K "Kovyor" cruise missile, developed for the Su-57 fighter. This missile, which has a range of up to 300 kilometers, incorporates foreign components from multiple countries, challenging the effectiveness of international sanctions. The GUR's publication aims to expose the technological foundations of Russia's defense industry and calls for increased sanctions pressure.

In Ukraine, attacks on conscription officers have surged, reflecting growing public discontent with military conscription. In Lutsk, a conscription officer was attacked, leading to increased tensions between the public and military authorities. The Ukrainian Armed Forces face challenges in maintaining troop morale and numbers, with over 200,000 men wanted for draft evasion. The Defense Ministry is considering reforms to address these issues.

Dmitry Peskov, spokesperson for the Russian president, criticized Germany's military strategy as a clear manifestation of confrontational thinking against Russia. He emphasized the need for dialogue between Europe and Russia to establish a new security framework. Additionally, Deputy Foreign Minister Dmitry Lyubinsky noted that Germany's military expansion aims to enhance its leadership role in Europe.

UK and France announced plans for a multinational military mission to ensure the safety of the Strait of Hormuz during a meeting in London on April 23, 2023. The initiative aims to restore trade through this critical passage and involves the deployment of Typhoon fighter jets and mine-clearing drones. Defense officials expressed confidence in making significant progress, with participation from dozens of countries. Iran has stated it will not reopen the Strait while the US maintains its blockade.

NATO plans to modernize its AWACS fleet stationed in Germany, opting for Bombardier-made aircraft equipped with Saab's GlobalEye system instead of American-made options. This decision follows the U.S. withdrawal from the project, with Germany expected to cover most costs. The final decision is anticipated before the NATO summit in Ankara in July.

NATO air defenses intercepted three Iranian ballistic missiles over Turkey between March 4 and March 13. The US-Israeli military campaign against Iran, initiated on February 28, has led to significant political tensions within NATO, with Turkey asserting its right to respond without formally aligning with US objectives. NATO also announced a withdrawal of personnel from Iraq and Norway increased its defense budget in response to the conflict.

Alexandra ReevesSat Apr 25 2026Loading...

NATO intercepted three Iranian ballistic missiles targeting Turkish airspace in March 2026, deploying additional PAC-3 Patriot missile batteries to Turkey. Tensions escalated as Turkey refrained from formally invoking NATO's Article 5, while Spain denied U.S. military operations access to its bases. Norway announced a substantial increase in defense spending, reflecting a shift in European military strategy amid the ongoing Iran conflict.

Dr. Klaus WeberSat Apr 25 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy is conducting a review of its aircraft carrier force, focusing on the Ford-class carriers and their operational effectiveness. This review, influenced by budgetary pressures and technological challenges, may lead to modifications or cancellations of future carriers. The Navy emphasizes that aircraft carriers remain vital for power projection and deterrence in military strategy.

The U.S. Department of Defense considered suspending NATO allies, particularly Spain, for not supporting the Iran military campaign, as revealed in a leaked memo on April 24, 2026. Spain's Prime Minister dismissed the memo, emphasizing adherence to international law. NATO officials clarified that the founding treaty does not permit member suspension. This situation highlights growing tensions within NATO and differing expectations between the U.S. and European allies regarding military commitments.

Alexandra ReevesSat Apr 25 2026Loading...

On February 28, 2026, the U.S. and Israel launched extensive airstrikes against Iranian military facilities, killing Ayatollah Khamenei and high-ranking commanders. Iran retaliated with missile strikes on Israel and U.S. bases in the Gulf. NATO intercepted Iranian missiles over Turkey, while Spain denied U.S. access to its bases. A ceasefire was established on April 7, 2026, but tensions remain high.

Dr. Klaus WeberSat Apr 25 2026Loading...

Germany and India are finalizing an $8 billion submarine procurement agreement, which includes the construction of six submarines in India. This agreement marks Germany's first transfer of submarine production technology to a non-European country and is part of a broader effort to enhance defense cooperation between the two nations. The deal is expected to be signed within the next three months, as confirmed by both defense ministers during their meeting in Kiel.

Germany announced its first military strategy since World War II on April 22, 2023, outlining plans to increase its active military personnel from 185,000 to 260,000 by 2035. The strategy identifies Russia as a major threat and emphasizes the need for enhanced military capabilities and responsibilities within NATO. Key components include the development of long-range weapon systems and improved air defense.

An internal Pentagon email proposed suspending Spain from NATO due to its refusal to support U.S. military operations against Iran. The memo highlights frustrations over Spain's denial of access to U.S. forces and emphasizes the strategic importance of Spanish military facilities. Despite the proposal, expelling Spain from NATO is unlikely due to the absence of a clear expulsion process in the North Atlantic Treaty.

The Pentagon plans to acquire 267 new F-15EX Eagle II fighters to replace the aging F-15E fleet, with 24 units scheduled for purchase in FY2027. The F-15EX will enhance U.S. Air Force capabilities, complementing the F-35A and supporting air policing roles. The program is also expected to boost economic development in St. Louis, Missouri.

The US Department of State authorized a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Netherlands, which includes AGM-114R2 Hellfire missiles and other equipment.