Analysis & Reports

Kongsberg Maritime ASA has entered into an agreement to acquire Steerprop in Oslo, Norway, on 7 September 2026. This acquisition aims to enhance Kongsberg's capabilities in Arctic propulsion systems, leveraging Steerprop's expertise and established portfolio. The deal is expected to provide broader offerings and stronger lifecycle support for customers in the Arctic vessel segment.

Poland is transitioning from a military gear buyer to an exporter, as stated by Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz during the MSPO show in Kielce on September 8, 2023. The Polish defense industry, led by PGZ, showcased a new heavy tracked infantry fighting vehicle and plans to produce 700 units for the Polish Army. Poland has also ordered 257 Borsuks and continues to procure military equipment from the United States.

Hanwha Systems is developing a 50 kW laser armored vehicle, showcased at the MSPO defense industry show in Kielce, Poland, on September 8, 2023. The vehicle combines a powerful laser system with a wheeled platform to enhance counter-drone capabilities. The company is in talks with various countries for potential exports and aims to begin serial production by the end of 2027.

Russian forces resumed missile and drone strikes on Kyiv and surrounding areas on July 8, 2023, following a brief ceasefire. The attacks resulted in at least 2 fatalities and 10 injuries. Ukrainian forces reported extensive military activity, including 244 instances of conflict within 24 hours, as Russia targeted military and logistical facilities.

MBDA opened its first industrial facility in Czosnow, Poland, to support the PILICA+ air defense program. The site, which includes two buildings totaling 3,900 square meters, aims to enhance local employment and technical innovation. Currently staffed by 11 Polish personnel, the facility is set to expand in late 2026 and early 2027 to support further development of air defense capabilities.

Loitering munitions are significantly influencing warfare dynamics in Ukraine and the Middle East in 2026. Their deployment is reshaping military strategies and operational effectiveness in these regions.

Ukraine's forces are preparing for winter as Russia continues its strikes on critical infrastructure. The air defense package includes Patriot interceptors to bolster Ukraine's defenses during this critical period.

Germany announced it will supply Ukraine with several thousand additional IRIS-T guided missiles, funded by the EU's 90 billion euro loan package, on September 8, 2023. This follows ongoing support since 2022, including the transfer of PAC-2 missiles from German stockpiles. The EU also committed to purchasing Patriot missiles for Ukraine.

Ukraine unveiled the Koral surface-to-air missile system at the MSPO defense exhibition in Kielce from September 8-11, 2023. The Koral is designed to intercept aircraft and ballistic targets, with a secondary capability against ground targets. This marks the first public display of the Koral launcher, which is mounted on a Czech-made Tatra truck chassis.

Britain pledged £100 million to support Ukraine's air defense, including Patriot missiles and over 120,000 drones, during the 36th meeting of the Ukraine Defence Contact Group. This aid aims to enhance Ukraine's capabilities against Russian threats as winter approaches. The package includes large-calibre artillery ammunition and emphasizes the need for a layered defense system.

Alexandra ReevesTue Sep 08 2026Loading...

Russian forces conducted airstrikes on Ukrainian infrastructure, including military logistics and production facilities, from the night of July 7 to the early morning of July 8. Ukrainian forces retaliated by targeting Russian troop concentrations and drone control points. Explosions were reported in Kyiv as airstrikes resumed after a three-day pause, with multiple combat incidents occurring in frontline areas.

Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) unveiled a full-sized demonstrator of the Heavy Infantry Fighting Vehicle (CBWP) at the MSPO defense exhibition in Kielce. The vehicle is designed to transport and protect mechanized infantry units, armed with a ZSSW-30 turret and various advanced weapon systems. PGZ plans to construct two prototypes by 2027, aiming for production readiness by 2029, depending on testing outcomes.

The European Union canceled the presentation of a high-level defense advisory board on September 6, 2026, which was intended to address Europe's military capability gaps. Germany reaffirmed NATO as the primary platform for defense planning, while concerns from member states highlighted the challenges in coordinating European defense efforts. This cancellation underscores the need for a more effective political mechanism to address defense issues within the EU.

Dr. Klaus WeberTue Sep 08 2026Loading...

German forces launched an offensive on December 16, 1944, during the Battle of the Bulge, trapping the 101st Airborne Division in Bastogne, Belgium. General Patton executed a counteroffensive, mobilizing six divisions from his Third Army, and successfully reached the besieged troops on December 26, 1944.

Sweden is acquiring the US-made HIMARS MLRS from Lockheed Martin for $733 million. Initial deliveries are expected next year, enhancing the Swedish Armed Forces' long-range capabilities.

Poland and Canada signed a defense cooperation agreement in Kielce, focusing on joint military exercises and training. Polish soldiers are set to participate in Arctic drills in Canada, while both nations are finalizing a drone deal that includes various military platforms. This agreement reflects the strengthening of military ties and collaboration between the two countries.

Russian forces conducted a large-scale airstrike on Ukrainian military facilities from September 7 to 8, 2023, using precision weapons and drones. The strikes resulted in 2 fatalities and 10 injuries in Kyiv, with significant damage to military production and logistics sites. A total of 29 locations in Ukraine were targeted, including a tanker supplying fuel to Ukrainian forces.

Sweden signed a contract to purchase Lockheed Martin's M142 HIMARS rocket artillery system for approximately $733 million. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2027, aimed at enhancing the Swedish Armed Forces' long-range capabilities. This acquisition reflects Sweden's commitment to European security and includes plans for a new rocket artillery unit by 2024. Additionally, Sweden and Finland agreed to cooperate on rocket artillery training and supply.

Poland unveiled its new heavy infantry fighting vehicle, the CBWP, at the MSPO 2026 arms fair in Kielce. The vehicle is designed to carry a crew of three and eight soldiers, featuring advanced armament and protection systems. A framework agreement for the supply of several hundred units was signed with the Armament Agency in August 2023.

Russia conducted a strike on Kyiv on September 8, 2026, killing three and injuring 16. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy emphasized the urgent need for additional Patriot missiles to enhance air defense capabilities. The attack occurred amid diplomatic efforts, highlighting the ongoing military threat and the imbalance in defense resources.

Alexandra ReevesTue Sep 08 2026Loading...