Analysis & Reports

Norway delivered 39 XR training systems to the Ukrainian Armed Forces in 2023 as part of a Nordic defense technology collaboration. The systems, valued at approximately $8.3 million, are designed to enhance training for armored vehicles, including the Leopard 2A4 tank, by providing a secure virtual training environment. This initiative aims to address training delays and operational risks faced by Ukrainian forces due to limited access to physical vehicles.

The Ukrainian Defense Technology Cluster Brave1 and NATO launched the UNITE — Brave NATO program on 25 March 2026, aimed at developing counter-UAV technology and electronic warfare solutions. The initiative encourages collaboration between Ukrainian and NATO defense companies to create joint innovations, with a total budget of 10 million euros for the first round. Finalists will undergo testing in Ukraine, with winners announced in summer 2026.

CSG acquired a 49% stake in Hirtenberger Defence Systems in Austria, enhancing its capabilities in mortar systems and ammunition production. This acquisition aims to strengthen CSG's manufacturing base in Europe and improve its response to growing international demand for ammunition. The partnership will also explore establishing a joint venture in Slovakia to support industrial programs and sales capabilities.

Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia have formed a strategic partnership to provide the MQ-28 Ghost Bat to the Bundeswehr by 2029. This collaboration aims to enhance Germany's military capabilities with a proven autonomous combat aircraft designed for various mission profiles. Rheinmetall will oversee the integration of the MQ-28 into Germany's existing military systems, ensuring operational support and adaptation to national requirements.

Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia have formed a partnership to provide the MQ-28 Ghost Bat as a collaborative combat aircraft for the Bundeswehr. This initiative aims to enhance Germany's air combat capabilities by integrating the MQ-28 into existing military systems. The MQ-28 has already completed over 150 flights and is designed to operate alongside manned aircraft. Concurrently, Airbus is developing another unmanned combat aircraft system, indicating a competitive landscape for Germany's future air combat solutions.

DroneShield and Origin Robotics signed a Memorandum of Understanding to collaborate on counter-UAS projects, enhancing detection and interception capabilities. This partnership aims to address emerging threats from kamikaze drones, leveraging DroneShield’s advanced sensor fusion and Origin Robotics’ interceptor platforms. The collaboration positions both companies to pursue opportunities in Europe, the Middle East, and the United States.

Rheinmetall and Boeing Australia partnered to provide the MQ-28 Ghost Bat for the Bundeswehr's collaborative combat aircraft procurement by 2029. The MQ-28, designed for the Royal Australian Air Force, will enhance Germany's military capabilities through system integration and support. This partnership aims to leverage Australian innovation while ensuring national supply security.

The Dassault Rafale fighter aircraft, developed by France, is recognized for its advanced capabilities and versatility in military operations. It can carry a wide range of weapons, including nuclear munitions, and is equipped with advanced air-to-air and air-to-ground missiles. The Rafale serves as a key component of France's defense strategy, particularly in air superiority and strike missions.

Russia is deploying hypersonic weapons, including the Avangard, Kinzhal, Zircon, and Oreshnik, for selective strikes on high-value targets in Ukraine and Belarus. These weapons are used alongside conventional missiles and drones to enhance speed and unpredictability. Despite their advanced capabilities, hypersonic weapons are not unstoppable, as evidenced by successful interceptions by systems like the Patriot.

Airbus tested its Bird of Prey interceptor drone in northern Germany on March 30, 2026, successfully engaging a one-way attack drone with Frankenburg's Mark I missiles. This demonstration flight showcased the interceptor's autonomous capabilities and cost-effective defense solution against low-cost aerial threats. The Mark I missile, integrated onto the drone, is designed to enhance air defense against mass aerial threats.

The Bird of Prey interceptor drone successfully completed its first demonstration flight in northern Germany on 30 March 2026, autonomously engaging a kamikaze drone with a Mark I missile. This marks a significant advancement in air defense capabilities, with the drone designed to operate within NATO's integrated air defense systems. The operational version will be able to carry up to eight missiles, enhancing its effectiveness against aerial threats.

The German Bundeswehr has placed an order for 188 HSWL 256 transmissions to be used in the Puma infantry fighting vehicle. This procurement is part of their ongoing efforts to enhance their military capabilities.

The U.S. Army's Bradley Fighting Vehicle has been effectively utilized by Ukrainian forces against Russian troops in 2024. Over 300 Bradleys have been supplied to Ukraine, demonstrating significant firepower and survivability on the battlefield. Despite suffering losses, the Bradley continues to play a crucial role in ground assaults, showcasing its long-standing combat effectiveness since its introduction in 1981.

Safran Electronics & Defense announced that the AASM LIR is nearing qualification following three live firing tests conducted at the Biscarosse facility in March 2023. The Thundart/FLP-T long-range missile is also approaching its first live test, with developments in dual seeker technology enhancing targeting capabilities. The company has significantly increased its production capacity for the AASM, anticipating future demand.

The European Defence Agency (EDA) is coordinating a new Joint Ammunition Qualification (JAQ) program with €50 million in funding to streamline the testing and approval of 155 mm artillery ammunition across EU member states. This initiative aims to harmonize national procedures, enhancing interoperability and procurement efficiency for European armed forces. The focus on 155 mm rounds underscores their critical role in NATO operations.

Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted drone attacks on Russian facilities in Leningrad Oblast, including Primorsk and Ust-Luga, causing significant damage in March 2023. The use of approximately 10,000 drones per month has become crucial for Ukraine's military operations, leading to substantial Russian casualties and operational challenges. The effectiveness of Ukraine's drone warfare has shifted the dynamics of the conflict, particularly in the Donbas region.

The Eurofighter Typhoon, a fourth-generation multirole aircraft, is recognized for its air superiority capabilities and is operated by multiple countries including the UK and Germany. It features advanced weaponry and is expected to remain operational until at least 2040, with ongoing upgrades to enhance its performance. The Typhoon is designed to work alongside stealth fighters in modern combat scenarios, emphasizing its role in air policing and missile truck operations.

Airbus completed the first demonstration flight of its Bird of Prey counter-drone interceptor in northern Germany, utilizing a Mark I missile. The drone autonomously detected and engaged a target, showcasing its capability to neutralize multiple medium-sized kamikaze drones. The system aims to address the challenges of defending against low-cost aerial threats and is expected to be operational by early 2027.

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor is undergoing significant upgrades, including the addition of stealthy 600-gallon fuel tanks and passive detection capabilities. These enhancements aim to improve the aircraft's operational range and mission profiles, allowing it to remain effective in high-threat environments. The upgrades were showcased during a NATO Air Shielding media day at Łask Air Base, Poland, on October 12, 2022.

Diehl Defence successfully fired the new 122 mm training rocket from the MARS 3 rocket artillery launcher system at the Altengrabow military training area in February 2026. This event marks the beginning of artillery rocket production in Germany and demonstrates the rocket's compatibility with the German Armed Forces' future systems. The training rocket features a unique spotting charge warhead that allows for visible impact without fire hazards.