Analysis & Reports

Ukrainian forces reclaimed 201 square kilometers from Russian control between February 12-16, 2026, during a period of reported communication disruptions for Russian troops due to Starlink outages. Deputy Defense Minister Alexey Krivoruchko claimed these outages did not affect operations, while Ukrainian officials noted significant impacts. The situation unfolded against the backdrop of tense negotiations in Geneva between Russia, Ukraine, and the U.S.

Dmitri VolkovWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

British and German military leaders issued a joint call for increased defense spending in response to Russia's shifting military posture. They emphasized the moral imperative of military preparedness and the need for public understanding of defense responsibilities. Both nations are set to deepen security cooperation with a new agreement in 2024, while Germany will station a combat brigade permanently on NATO's eastern flank.

Fincantieri announced its 2026-2030 business plan, aiming to double defense production capacity and secure 50 billion Euro in new orders. The plan emphasizes growth in naval defense and underwater sectors, supported by EU funding. The company is also focusing on unmanned platforms and nuclear propulsion technologies to enhance its military capabilities.

The U.S. blocked Ukraine's request to produce Patriot interceptor missiles, impacting its air defense capabilities. President Zelensky confirmed that despite initial promises, the U.S. did not provide necessary licenses for production in Ukraine or with NATO partners. This decision comes as the U.S. pushes for a peace deal in Geneva while limiting Ukraine's military options.

Alexandra ReevesWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

The B-52H Stratofortress, Tu-95MS Bear, and B-2 Spirit are actively utilized in military operations as of 2026, with the B-52H serving as a versatile platform for standoff strikes. The Tu-95MS has been employed in Russia's strategic air campaign against Ukraine, launching Kh-101 missiles from a distance. The B-2 Spirit remains the only aircraft capable of penetrating advanced air defenses, underscoring its critical role in nuclear deterrence.

Dmitri VolkovWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

The ongoing conflict in Ukraine has resulted in 66 confirmed losses of the Ka-52 Alligator, revealing significant vulnerabilities in its operational effectiveness against modern MANPADS. The AH-64 Apache has demonstrated superior standoff capabilities, while the Mi-24 Hind remains effective against less equipped adversaries. The analysis highlights the inadequacies of Russian rotary-wing doctrine in the current high-intensity conflict environment.

Dr. Klaus WeberWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

Chancellor Friedrich Merz stated that Germany will not pursue its own nuclear weapons but is interested in a deterrence arrangement with French and British nuclear capabilities. He emphasized the importance of discussing France's offer to extend its nuclear deterrence to Germany. This dialogue is seen as crucial in light of changing security dynamics in Europe, particularly due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Sweden ranked third in global military aid to Ukraine in 2025, contributing approximately $4.4 billion. The Swedish government emphasized its political commitment to Ukraine's defense and called on other nations to increase their assistance. European countries collectively provided around $21.5 billion in military aid, with Germany as the largest contributor.

Iran partially closed the Strait of Hormuz on February 18, 2026, coinciding with negotiations in Geneva. The U.S. deployed over 50 fighter jets, including F-22s and F-35s, to the region, signaling military readiness. The IRGC's naval exercise emphasized Iran's control over the strategic waterway, which is crucial for global oil transport.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

The Spanish Air and Space Force signed an agreement with GMV to install a Focusear system antenna at Morón Air Base on February 17, 2026. This installation aims to enhance space situational awareness and control capabilities, providing advanced data for satellite tracking. The agreement reflects a collaboration between military and private sectors to strengthen national space surveillance capabilities.

Sweden commissioned Rheinmetall to supply eight Seasnake 30 weapon systems for the Swedish Navy, with the first delivery scheduled for February 2028. The contract, valued at approximately €63 million, includes training ammunition and spare parts. This order marks a significant milestone as it is the first time a NATO member has procured the Seasnake 30, reinforcing Rheinmetall's position in the maritime defense market.

Japan, the UK, and Italy are collaborating on the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) for next-generation fighter jets, with Italy approving a contribution of €8.77 billion until 2037. The initial cost estimate has tripled, raising concerns about future expenses. Discussions about Germany's potential participation could complicate the program's decision-making. Japan's involvement represents a significant technological advancement for its defense industry, necessitating a strategic response to rising costs.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

A French Rafale simulated a missile shot at a U.S. F-35A during the Atlantic Trident 25 NATO exercise in Finland. The exercise involved approximately 40 aircraft and 1,000 personnel, focusing on Agile Combat Employment and interoperability. The engagement's specifics, such as altitude and speed, remain unknown, raising discussions about the effectiveness of stealth in close-range scenarios.

President Trump ordered the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln to the Middle East in October 2023 as part of a strategy for potential regime change in Iran. This deployment coincides with upcoming negotiations in Geneva involving U.S. envoys and Iranian representatives, amid rising tensions due to Iran's actions against protesters. The U.S. military is preparing for possible strikes against Iranian military targets.

Piloda Defence, HAVELSAN, and VN Maritime signed a strategic Memorandum of Understanding in Naples on February 17th, 2026, to collaborate on unmanned and hybrid maritime platforms for the Italian market. This partnership aims to develop advanced naval solutions tailored to the operational needs of the Mediterranean region, with the first procurement contract expected in the first half of 2026. The collaboration emphasizes local industrial participation and aims to strengthen defense industry ties between Türkiye and Italy.

Russia warns of potential military action in the Baltic Sea, with Nikolai Patrushev indicating that the Russian Navy may respond to maritime blockades. He criticized NATO's efforts to monitor Russian maritime trade and suggested that any attempts to restrict this trade could provoke military responses. The situation is complicated by increased NATO surveillance and enforcement actions against vessels linked to sanctions circumvention.

The Russian delegation, led by Vladimir Medinsky, participated in trilateral negotiations in Geneva with Ukraine and the United States in February 2026. Despite the discussions, Russia's military objectives remain unchanged, and Ukraine's energy infrastructure has suffered extensive damage from ongoing strikes. Zelensky warned of a potential massive Russian strike ahead of the talks, indicating continued military pressure on Ukraine. The negotiations are expected to yield limited results, with no significant concessions from Russia.

Alexandra ReevesTue Feb 17 2026Loading...

The FCAS project is likely to collapse by April 2026 due to unresolved disputes between Airbus and Dassault over leadership and workshare. France may independently develop a new fighter jet, while Germany and Spain consider a joint program. This fragmentation reflects ongoing challenges in European defense cooperation and strategic autonomy.

Dr. Klaus WeberTue Feb 17 2026Loading...

Ireland is rearming in response to perceived threats from Russia, marking a significant shift from its long-standing policy of neutrality. This move aligns with broader European defense initiatives.

The Federation of German Security and Defence Industries (BDSV) will sponsor Enforce Tac, a trade fair for security and defense, from February 23 to 25, 2026, in Nuremberg. This partnership aims to foster innovation and collaboration in the sector, addressing new security challenges through strategic dialogue among industry stakeholders. Enforce Tac will feature around 1,200 international exhibitors, showcasing advancements in tactical equipment, communication technology, and cybersecurity.