Analysis & Reports

The UK Ministry of Defence announced on January 24, 2026, that seven companies have been selected to develop unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) under Project NYX, intended to operate alongside British Army Apache attack helicopters. The UAVs will enhance military capabilities in reconnaissance, strike, and electronic warfare, with initial operational capability expected by 2030. This initiative reflects the UK's strategic shift towards integrating advanced technology in military operations.

Seven suppliers, including Anduril, BAE, Leonardo, Lockheed, Syos, Tekever, and Thales, have been selected to design a new Apache wingman in the United Kingdom. This initiative highlights advancements in military technology and the development of new weapon systems.

Soframe was selected to equip the French Army with Heavy Recovery Vehicles (ELD) following a competition by the French Defense Procurement Agency. The contract includes an initial delivery of 20 units in 2027, with 5 units expected before the end of the first semester. The framework allows for an optional order of up to 80 additional units, enhancing the French Army's capabilities.

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) is increasing production of offshore vessels and corvettes, with the first Falaj-3 vessel expected to be delivered to Kuwait by mid-2027. The company is also developing unmanned surface vessels and integrating new technologies, while 70% of its order book is for export to markets including Angola and Kuwait. The first BR71 MKII corvette will be launched on March 4 in Cherbourg, France.

Elbit Systems completed the acquisition of UAV Tactical Systems in Leicester, UK, to produce drones for European customers. This acquisition follows the British government's decision to phase out the Watchkeeper drones. Elbit is also involved in other drone technologies, including the Hermes 900 and loitering munitions.

Soframe was selected by the French Defence Procurement Agency to supply the French Army with 20 heavy recovery vehicles, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2027. The contract includes an option for up to 80 additional units. These vehicles will enhance the French Army's capabilities and are similar to those provided to the Belgian Army, indicating strengthened joint operations between the two nations.

French Defense Minister Catherine Colonna observed a demonstration of unmanned surface vessels in Toulon on January 22, 2023. Seven companies showcased their vessels in a competition organized by the French Defense Procurement Agency. The French Navy aims to introduce armed unmanned vessels by early 2027, with the first batch of 1000 AI drones already delivered. Additionally, a new remote-controlled kamikaze drone is being developed in collaboration with European missile manufacturers.

The U.S. and British forces developed heavy tanks with large guns in response to Soviet threats during the Cold War. The Rheinmetall 120 mm smoothbore gun became the NATO standard, influencing global tank armament. Current developments include the MGCS program, which is exploring advanced 130 mm and 140 mm gun systems for future tanks. Soviet advancements in tank armament also shifted the landscape, introducing smoothbore technology.

China asserted the superiority of its 6th-generation fighters, the J-36 and J-50, over the U.S. F-47 during the World Economic Forum in Davos. Analysts noted that China has been actively developing these aircraft since December 2024, while the F-47 faces significant technological challenges. Concerns were raised about the F-47's design, particularly regarding its stealth capabilities compared to Chinese models.

The UK Ministry of Defence selected seven defense companies to develop prototype uncrewed aircraft under Project NYX, aimed at supporting Apache helicopters. The drones will enhance reconnaissance, surveillance, and strike capabilities while reducing risks to aircrews. The program is part of a broader shift towards integrating autonomous systems in military operations, with initial operational capability expected by 2030.

France's DGA ordered long-range, remote-controlled munitions from MBDA and Aviation Design. This acquisition indicates a focus on enhancing military capabilities with new weapon systems.

Diehl Defence opened a new missile integration centre in Nonnweiler, Saarland, on 23 January 2026, creating 3,400 m² of production space. This facility will enhance the company's capacity for integrating IRIS-T missile variants. The expansion is part of a broader growth initiative, with an investment of approximately EUR 1.5 billion, driven by increased demand from NATO countries following the Ukraine War.

Russia used export-version S-400 missiles to strike ground targets in Ukraine, marking the first recorded use of these missiles in combat. The 48N6E2 missiles, originally intended for foreign customers, were confirmed to have been diverted from an Indian contract. The strikes reflect Russia's reliance on export stockpiles as its own missile reserves dwindle.

Bulgaria approved a $205 million project to purchase Naval Strike Missiles to enhance its coastal defense capabilities. The deal, conducted with the U.S. government, is expected to see payments concentrated between 2029 and 2030. This acquisition follows a similar purchase by Romania and is part of a broader effort to counter increased Russian military activity in the Black Sea.

The UK Ministry of Defence awarded BAE Systems a £453.5 million contract to produce 38 ECRS Mk2 radars for the Royal Air Force's Typhoon aircraft. This radar will enhance electronic warfare capabilities, allowing for improved detection and tracking of multiple targets. The production is expected to support approximately 1,300 jobs across the UK defense sector and is scheduled to enter service by the end of the decade.

The Italian Army received its first SAMP/T NG and GRIFO air defense systems as part of a modernization program. This delivery includes advanced capabilities to counter aerial threats, with SAMP/T NG utilizing the Aster B1NT missile and GRIFO employing the CAMM ER missile. The deployment aims to enhance Italy's air defense network and aligns with NATO's integrated defense efforts.

The U.S. Air Force confirmed the 56th Rescue Generation Squadron received its final HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopter at Aviano Air Base, Italy, completing its transition to the new combat rescue platform. This delivery enhances the squadron's operational capabilities for rescue missions across Europe, replacing the older HH-60G Pave Hawk. The HH-60W is designed for high-threat environments and supports various special missions.

Denmark placed a $610 million order for three TPY-4 fixed air defense radars from Lockheed Martin in December 2023, with plans to station them in Skagen, Bornholm, the Faroe Islands, and possibly eastern Greenland. This acquisition is deemed essential for Denmark's national air defense and reflects ongoing tensions with the U.S. over Greenland's status. Other Nordic nations have also procured similar radar systems from Lockheed Martin.

The Italian Army received the SAMP/T New Generation and GRIFO air defense systems at the Santa Barbara barracks in Sabaudia on 22 January 2026. These systems enhance Italy's capabilities against modern air and missile threats, including ballistic targets, and are designed for interoperability within NATO defense networks. The delivery was attended by key military and industry leaders, underscoring the significance of these advancements for national security.

The UK Ministry of Defence awarded a GBP 453.5 million contract to BAE Systems on 22 January 2026 for the full production of ECRS Mk2 radars for the Royal Air Force's Eurofighter Typhoon fleet. This contract includes 38 new radars and 2 modified test systems, enhancing the Typhoon's electronic warfare capabilities. The upgraded aircraft are expected to enter service by the end of the decade, supporting over 20,000 skilled jobs in the UK defense sector.