Analysis & Reports

Sweden's Blekinge-class submarines, utilizing GHOST technology, are set for delivery between 2026 and 2035, with significant delays and budget increases. These submarines enhance NATO's capabilities in the Baltic Sea, designed for stealth and special operations. The first of the two planned submarines is now scheduled for delivery in 2031.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz declared the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program effectively dead, citing differing requirements between Germany and France. Belgian defense minister Theo Francken confirmed there will be no Franco-German sixth-generation fighter jet. The situation has led to intensified calls for restructuring the program, with skepticism about the feasibility of multiple next-gen fighter projects in Europe.

The U.S. Navy's Abraham Lincoln carrier is positioned off the coast of Oman, while Iranian naval drills continue in the Hormuz Strait. Russian forces have intensified missile strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, launching over 400 attacks recently. The U.S. aims to deter Iranian aggression and maintain military readiness in the region.

Estonia is negotiating with BAE Systems Hägglunds to produce parts for the CV90 infantry fighting vehicle program, aiming for local production and deliveries by the end of 2030. The Estonian Minister of Defense highlighted the potential involvement of local companies in the supply chain. This initiative is part of a joint procurement effort involving six European nations, with Estonia potentially ordering 10 percent of the total vehicles.

China has enhanced its military capabilities to track and threaten U.S. aircraft carriers, particularly in the Taiwan Strait and Pacific regions, since the 1995-1996 crisis. The People's Liberation Army has shifted its strategy from sinking carriers to pushing them back using advanced surveillance and strike systems. This modernization aims to complicate U.S. power projection and reduce the operational effectiveness of American naval forces.

INTRACOM DEFENSE (IDE) announced the award of over $108 million in contracts from Raytheon for the Patriot air and missile defense system on February 18, 2026, in Koropi. These contracts reinforce IDE's role as a key partner in Raytheon's supply chain, ensuring operational readiness and long-term sustainment of the Patriot system. IDE's investments in engineering and manufacturing capabilities support both national and international defense initiatives.

Galvion unveiled the Batlskin Hellbender™ UL helmet at EnforceTac 2026 in Nürnberg, Germany, designed to meet the needs of modern armed forces. This ultra-lightweight ballistic helmet features enhanced protection and integration capabilities, benefiting from user feedback over years of development. The USMC has awarded Galvion a USD 130 million contract for a variant of this helmet, highlighting its significance in military equipment modernization.

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...

Ukrainian Armed Forces deployed approximately 109 M2A2 Bradleys, which successfully engaged and destroyed Russian T-72 tanks in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. The BMP-3 has suffered heavy losses, with around 510 vehicles confirmed destroyed since the invasion began. The Puma IFV remains untested in combat, raising concerns about its operational reliability.

Dr. Klaus WeberWed 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...

The ongoing war in Ukraine has highlighted the performance of various main battle tanks, including the M1 Abrams, Leopard 2, T-90, and Type 99. The M1 Abrams is recognized for its advanced armor and active protection systems, while the Leopard 2A7V has faced significant losses due to vulnerabilities. The T-90M has demonstrated improved survivability, and the Type 99A's capabilities remain largely untested in combat. This analysis underscores the importance of active protection systems in modern armored warfare.

Dmitri VolkovWed 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.

Bulgaria received its first batch of five Stryker armored vehicles at the port of Burgas on February 14, 2026, as part of its military modernization program. The vehicles will be assembled in Veliko Tarnovo and integrated into the 61st Mechanized Brigade in Karlovo. Additionally, eight Stryker vehicles were provided for training purposes, enhancing the brigade's operational readiness and aligning with NATO standards.

Russia launched a massive attack on Ukraine with 396 drones and 29 missiles on February 16-17, 2026, as negotiations in Geneva continued. Ukrainian air defense successfully intercepted 367 drones and 25 missiles. The military actions are part of a strategy to exert pressure during diplomatic talks, highlighting the ongoing conflict and the complexities of the negotiations.

Dmitri VolkovWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

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...

On October 17, Russian forces conducted large-scale strikes on Ukrainian military and energy infrastructure, impacting 12 regions. Ukrainian forces responded by destroying a Russian Ka-27 helicopter in Crimea and targeting a chemical plant in Krasnodar Krai. Russia's air defense intercepted multiple Ukrainian drones and precision-guided bombs during these operations.