Analysis & Reports

Czech defense company Excalibur International signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Turkish Aselsan on February 4, 2024, to produce the Korkut air defense system on a Tatra Force 6×6 platform in the European Union. This joint venture aims to localize production and expand air defense capabilities for European and global markets, addressing the demand for mobile air defense systems against UAVs. CSG also opened a representation office in Brussels to enhance engagement with European institutions.

Excalibur International and Aselsan signed a strategic cooperation agreement to establish a joint venture in the EU on February 04, 2026. They will introduce the Korkut air defense system integrated on the Tatra Force 6×6 wheeled platform, aiming to enhance defense capabilities for European and global markets. This partnership focuses on air defense, electronic warfare, and smart munitions, with production planned in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

HENSOLDT received major orders from KNDS to equip combat and armored personnel carriers with digital optronics in Oberkochen, Germany, on February 4, 2026. The contracts, totaling over €400 million, include 288 sets for the BOXER RCT 30 (Schakal) and 301 sets for the LEOPARD 2 A8 main battle tank. These orders emphasize the transition to digital optronics, enhancing military capabilities and operational readiness.

Paramount Greece and MAC HUB announced a strategic defense partnership in Athens and Kyiv on February 4, 2026, focusing on the joint development of advanced land platforms. The collaboration has resulted in the launch of the MAC OWL (Sova), a new MRAP armored vehicle designed for contemporary battlefield threats. This partnership marks a significant step in enhancing Ukraine's defense manufacturing capabilities and reflects the evolving security landscape in Europe.

CSG and Aselsan signed a strategic cooperation agreement to establish a joint venture focused on defense capabilities in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. They will introduce the Korkut air defense system integrated on the Tatra Force 6×6 wheeled platform, targeting European and global markets. This partnership aims to enhance air defense, electronic warfare, and smart munitions capabilities.

The T-14 Armata tank has been withdrawn from combat in Ukraine due to its high cost and the changing nature of warfare, where cheaper and simpler tanks like the T-72 are favored. The Russian Army acknowledges that the T-14's complex design is not suited for the attrition-heavy conflict, leading to a strategic shift towards mass production of more rugged and replaceable equipment. This reflects a broader trend in military operations where traditional main battle tanks are relegated to support roles.

Airbus and Singapore completed the certification of the Automatic Air to Air Refueling (A3R) capability for the Airbus A330 MRTT, marking a significant advancement in air-to-air refueling technology. The certification was granted by the Spanish National Institute for Aerospace Technology following extensive testing. The Republic of Singapore Air Force will benefit from this new capability, which is also attracting interest from other nations, including Canada and Thailand.

Airbus and Singapore completed the certification of the Automatic Air to Air Refueling (A3R) capability for the A330 MRTT, marking a significant milestone in military logistics. The certification was granted by INTA after extensive testing in Singapore and Spain. The A3R system is designed to enhance the Republic of Singapore Air Force's mission effectiveness and has attracted international interest, particularly from Canada. Thailand has also ordered the improved MRTT+ variant, with delivery scheduled for 2029.

France delivered 1,000 infantry reconnaissance drones to the Armée de Terre as part of a rapid acquisition program. The drones, known as "drone du combattant," are equipped with optronic observation sensors and are intended to enhance situational awareness for infantry units. This delivery follows an order placed on June 30, 2025, and supports small-unit operations during Exercise ORION 2026 and beyond.

Hanwha Aerospace signed a $922 million agreement with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency to supply the Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system (MRLS) to Norway's armed forces. This deal aims to enhance Norway's military capabilities with advanced artillery systems.

The French Directorate General of Armament has ordered 34 Aliaca vertical take-off and landing systems from Airbus Helicopters for the French Navy, with deliveries starting in May 2026. This new version enhances operational flexibility and is designed for various missions, including surveillance and search and rescue. The Aliaca VTOL has been tested on land and at sea, demonstrating its capabilities.

Countries like Egypt, Turkey, and Saudi Arabia continue to upgrade and maintain M60 Patton tanks, which have been modernized with 120mm smoothbore guns and advanced fire control systems. Spain announced plans to sell 260-300 M60s in 2024, while Iran has significantly modified its M60s for enhanced combat capabilities. The M60 remains a viable military asset due to its affordability and reliability.

Viasat, Inc. launched a new satellite service portfolio in London on February 2, 2026, aimed at enhancing government UAV operations. The portfolio includes various connectivity services designed to support intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and defense missions. Additionally, Viasat introduced lightweight terminals for UAVs to ensure reliable communications in challenging environments.

Russia continues to deploy T-72 tanks in the Ukraine War, leveraging their mass production and adaptability to counter Ukrainian anti-tank tactics. Since February 2022, the T-72 has proven effective on the battlefield, with over 25,000 units built and utilized by more than 40 countries. Despite vulnerabilities, the T-72's affordability and ease of maintenance make it a key asset for Russian forces.

Hanwha presented its vision for the future heavy formations of the Republic of Korea Army at the International Armoured Vehicles Conference in Farnborough. The ROK Army plans to deploy new unmanned and manned vehicles, including the K-NIFV and H-UGVs, starting around 2026. Significant changes to the mechanized infantry battalion structure will incorporate MUM-T capabilities, enhancing operational effectiveness against emerging threats.

The French Navy will receive 34 Aliaca VTOL uncrewed aerial systems following an order from the Directorate General of Armament on February 3, 2026. Deliveries are set to begin in May 2026 after successful testing in 2024 and 2025. The new VTOL configuration enhances operational flexibility for maritime surveillance and situational awareness missions.

Leonardo unveiled the Hystrix family of land-based counter-UAS systems at its Brescia facility in late January. These systems utilize naval artillery calibers of 76 mm, 40 mm, and 30 mm, and are intended for the Michelangelo Dome defense system. Various configurations, including static, relocatable, and mobile, are being developed to enhance air defense capabilities.

Leonardo unveiled the Michelangelo Dome modular defense system in Brescia, Italy, in January 2026, introducing the Hystrix 30 ADS for air defense. The company is developing the Blaze RCWS for light vehicles and showcased the Lionfish 30 at MSPO 2025. Testing of new munitions and systems is planned for mid-2026 to enhance air defense capabilities.

The French Directorate General of Armament has ordered 34 new Aliaca vertical take-off and landing systems from Airbus Helicopters for the French Navy, with deliveries starting in May 2026. This new version enhances operational flexibility and will be used for various missions, including search and rescue. The Aliaca VTOL has been tested and is expected to improve the Navy's capabilities significantly.

Senop has been awarded a contract by the French Armament General Directorate for its advanced fire control system, the Senop AFCD TI. The contract, resulting from years of collaboration, will commence in 2026 and includes training and maintenance support for the French Armed Forces. The AFCD TI is a next-generation fire control solution that enhances combat effectiveness.