Analysis & Reports

Milrem Robotics and EOS Defence Systems signed a teaming agreement on February 02, 2026, to enhance unmanned ground systems and collaborative combat robotics. The partnership aims to explore new business opportunities in defense technology across various regions, including the Middle East, North Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. Key focuses include the integration of advanced weapon systems and counter-UAS solutions.

On December 30, 2025, the Belgian Ministry of Defence ordered 92 Griffon and 123 Serval vehicles from KNDS France, marking the first Serval order for Belgium. Luxembourg will also acquire 38 Jaguar and 16 Griffon vehicles through this order, enhancing their military capabilities and interoperability with NATO. The vehicles will be assembled in Belgium, contributing to European military strength.

Leonardo unveiled the Hystrix 40 ADS, an advanced air defense system based on the Marlin 40 turret, in Brescia, northern Italy, in January 2026. This system is designed to counter unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and is part of a broader initiative to enhance air defense capabilities. The Hystrix 40 ADS is currently in development, with Leonardo securing contracts for its deployment in a Far East country.

Rheinmetall has secured a contract with the Dutch armed forces for the supply of hand grenades. This framework agreement indicates a commitment to ongoing supply, enhancing the military capabilities of the Netherlands.

Poland's Ministry of National Defence signed a PLN 15 billion ($4.2 billion) deal with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and PGZ for counter-unmanned aerial systems to protect its airspace from Russian drone incursions. The agreement, signed on January 30, 2026, includes 18 anti-drone batteries and 703 vehicles, with deliveries expected to start in 2026. This initiative is part of Poland's broader strategy to enhance its military capabilities amid ongoing regional threats.

Teledyne FLIR Defense received a $17.5 million contract from armasuisse on February 2, 2026, to deliver a large number of Black Hornet 4 nano-drones for reconnaissance. These drones will be integrated with the Piranha 8×8 Armored engineering vehicle, enhancing situational awareness for vehicle crews. The Black Hornet 4 features advanced capabilities, including real-time video streaming and target data generation.

Rheinmetall signed a multi-year framework contract with the Royal Netherlands Army for the production of approximately 15 types of hand grenades on 30 January 2026. The contract, valued in the double-digit million euro range, allows flexible procurement throughout its five-year term, with a possible two-year extension. Production will occur at Rheinmetall's facilities in Trittau and Silberhütte, Germany, and Schwanenstadt, Austria.

Leonardo unveiled the Hystrix 76 ADS, a new land-based air defense system, at its facility in Brescia, northern Italy. The system, based on the 76/62 mm naval gun, is designed for remote operation and can fire various types of ammunition. A prototype is expected to be ready by the end of 2025, showcasing capabilities against aerial threats, including drones.

Lithuanian defense units demonstrated the capabilities of the Hornet XR reconnaissance drones during a recent high-level visit. The Hornet XR, developed by Granta Autonomy, features a range of up to 50 kilometers and is designed for unit-level intelligence collection. This demonstration highlights Lithuania's efforts to enhance its reconnaissance capabilities amid a deteriorating security environment in the region.

The Swiss government approved the procurement of Black Hornet 4 nano-drones for integration with Piranha 8×8 armored vehicles, following a $17.5 million contract awarded to Teledyne FLIR Defense on February 2, 2026. The drones will enhance reconnaissance capabilities by providing real-time data sharing with vehicle crews. The first integrated systems were delivered in 2025, with remaining deliveries scheduled for 2026.

Hanwha Aerospace signed a contract with the Norwegian Defence Material Agency in Oslo on January 30, 2026, to supply 16 Chunmoo Multiple Rocket Launcher Systems valued at approximately $922 million. This contract marks a significant milestone as part of Norway's $2 billion acquisition project. The Chunmoo system is designed for reliability in Arctic conditions and will enhance interoperability with Norway's existing defense infrastructure.

Ukraine's defense industry scaled up production significantly from 2022 to 2025, adapting to wartime conditions and increasing output despite Russian strikes. The sector expanded to nearly 1,000 enterprises, with a focus on UAVs and artillery shells. By 2025, annual defense output is projected to reach USD 35 billion, supported by private investment and international partnerships.

Australia delivered 49 modified M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine as part of a $1.5 billion military support package. The tanks, equipped with diesel engines and upgraded thermal sights, are intended to enhance Ukraine's defense against Russian forces. Ukrainian technicians are modifying the tanks to improve their survivability against drone warfare. The delivery follows initial U.S. resistance to sending American-built tanks to Ukraine.

The U.S. awarded a $197 million contract to Raytheon for the production of seven MS-110 Multispectral Reconnaissance Systems for the Polish Air Force. The contract, announced on January 28, 2023, includes aircraft integration and engineering support, with completion expected by August 2031. The MS-110 systems will enhance Poland's ISR capabilities, allowing for independent wide-area surveillance missions.

Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa signed a NOK 16 billion contract with the Polish Armaments Agency to deliver 18 Counter-Unmanned Aerial Systems (CUAS) batteries in Poland on January 30, 2026. The CUAS batteries will include various effectors such as 35 mm, 30 mm, and 12.7 mm guns, as well as missiles and interceptor drones. This program, named SAN CUAS, aims to strengthen Poland's air defense capabilities and enhance regional counter-drone innovation.

Rheinmetall signed a multi-year framework contract with the Dutch Army for the production of hand grenades, with an initial term of five years and an option to extend for two years. The contract includes approximately 15 different types of hand grenades manufactured at Rheinmetall's facilities in Germany and Austria. This agreement enhances the operational readiness of the Dutch armed forces and reflects the ongoing cooperation between Rheinmetall and the Netherlands in defense technology.

AI-controlled drone swarms are poised to revolutionize military operations globally, with Ukraine integrating battlefield data into neural networks for enhanced air defense. The U.S. Department of Defense plans to implement AI for optimizing workflows and military command. Additionally, AI's role in military medicine is being explored for remote healthcare. Russia and other nations are also researching AI for tactical analysis and cybersecurity.

The development of next-generation fighters, including China's J-36 and the U.S. F-47, emphasizes larger sizes and advanced capabilities. These aircraft are intended to function as flying command centers, integrating with unmanned systems and enhancing battlefield management. The J-36 is currently in development, while the F-47 is projected to be stealthier and more capable than its predecessors, focusing on long-range operations and advanced sensor integration.

Norway selected Hanwha Aerospace’s Chunmoo multiple launch rocket system for its ground-based long-range precision fires system, marking a $2 billion investment. The deal includes 16 launch systems and a significant number of missiles, with deliveries scheduled from 2028 to 2031. This decision indicates a shift in Nordic defense acquisitions towards South Korean defense exports amid rising security concerns from Russia.

Russia is reportedly leveraging Starlink satellite systems to extend the range of its drones. Ukraine's Defence Minister praised SpaceX for its swift response to this development. The involvement of Starlink indicates a significant shift in the operational capabilities of Russian drones in the conflict.