Analysis & Reports

France has entered exclusive negotiations with MBDA and Safran for a long-range artillery system to replace its aging LRU fleet by 2027. The Thundart artillery system, capable of reaching 150 km and extendable beyond 1,000 km, is under consideration. Deliveries could start in 2029, sidelining Lockheed Martin's HIMARS proposal due to longer delivery times.

France has initiated exclusive negotiations with Safran and MBDA for the supply of domestically produced rocket artillery and munitions. This decision follows the need to replace aging M270-based LRU launchers, with the first systems expected to be delivered by 2029. The French Army emphasizes the importance of these capabilities for future military readiness, aiming for a war-ready division by 2027 and army corps by 2030.

Palladyne AI Corp. and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) announced a strategic partnership on June 8, 2026, to manufacture and market loitering munition systems, including HARPY and HAROP, to the U.S. Department of War. This partnership aims to enhance U.S. military capabilities by adapting proven systems for domestic production and operational requirements. IAI will provide engineering support while Palladyne AI will handle manufacturing and marketing.

China's DF-27 missile system poses a direct strike threat to northern Australia, with capabilities to reach significant distances, impacting military operations and logistics. The threat is expected to mature by 2026, necessitating a reassessment of Australia's defense strategy. The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force is expanding its missile capabilities, which could complicate U.S. operations in the region.

Marcus ChenMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

MAC JEE and SOFRAME officially presented the DORCUS vehicle system at Eurosatory 2026. This new armored fire-support solution is designed for modern warfare, featuring a retractable multiple rocket launcher and high firepower capacity. The DORCUS system supports various military units and showcases the collaboration between French and Brazilian defense industries.

Shield AI is showcasing the X-BAT autonomous fighter jet at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris from June 15-19, 2026. The X-BAT is billed as the world's first AI-piloted VTOL fighter jet, capable of vertical takeoff and landing with combat performance at jet speeds. It features a range exceeding 3,700 km and is designed for various military roles, including air-to-air combat and electronic warfare.

On the 15th, a church at the Kyiv Cave Monastery caught fire due to an attack by Russian forces. Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that the damage was caused by missiles from a U.S.-made Patriot air defense system. The incident raises concerns about the effectiveness of the air defense system, potentially linked to expired missiles supplied by Western nations.

Thales launched the LGR275 Proxy rocket in Herstal, Belgium, equipped with a new LiDAR sensor to target enemy drones. The company aims to produce 20,000 units annually by 2028, responding to urgent needs in ongoing conflicts. This development reflects an acceleration in production capacity due to the situation in the Middle East.

Russia launched a coordinated attack on Ukraine overnight, deploying 681 weapons, including 70 missiles and 611 drones, with Kyiv suffering the most damage. The assault resulted in significant casualties and destruction of cultural sites, prompting calls for increased air defense support from G7 leaders. Despite Ukraine's interception of many aerial threats, the attack exposed vulnerabilities in its defense capabilities and highlighted the urgency for Western military support.

Alexandra ReevesMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

CIO unveiled the VBM 155 self-propelled howitzer at Eurosatory 2026, showcasing its advanced artillery capabilities and automated turret. The howitzer, built on a 10×10 chassis, can achieve speeds over 100 km/h and has a maximum rate of fire of 10 rounds per minute. It is designed for enhanced mobility and stability, allowing for rapid deployment and redeployment. The system is aimed at both domestic and export markets, with integration expected in early Q4 2026.

On June 15, 2026, Russian forces launched an attack wave comprising 70 missiles and 611 drones against Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, resulting in at least nine deaths. President Zelensky urged G7 nations for enhanced air defense support, highlighting Europe's vulnerabilities in missile defense capabilities. The attack is viewed as a significant test of European defense policy amid ongoing discussions about military support for Ukraine.

Dr. Klaus WeberMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

MBDA showcases its defense solutions at Eurosatory 2026, addressing European rearmament needs amid ongoing conflicts. The company presents new weapon systems, including the NCM/LCM MK2 and THUNDART, emphasizing rapid industrial scale-up and operational readiness. With a €5 billion investment plan from 2026 to 2030, MBDA aims to enhance battlefield superiority for European armed forces and their allies.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted airstrikes and artillery attacks in southern Lebanon on June 15, injuring individuals in Nabatieh. A drone strike targeted a vehicle, while artillery fire hit two towns in the region. Additionally, an explosive device was dropped in Kharis village, and demolition operations were carried out in Shiyam town.

On June 15, 2026, Russian Armed Forces launched a massive airstrike involving 70 missiles and 611 drones targeting Ukraine, with significant portions intercepted. New satellite data reveals at least five drone launch sites near the Belarus border, enhancing Russia's operational capabilities. The Shatalovo airfield, located 46 kilometers from Belarus, is a key site with multiple launchers, indicating a strategic shift in Russian military operations.

Dmitri VolkovMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

BAE Systems launched a Next Generation Indirect Fire Control System designed to enhance artillery operations. The system improves precision, speed, and connectivity, allowing for faster targeting and better operational awareness. It integrates with existing and future platforms, supporting a more agile and responsive capability for armed forces.

On June 15, 2023, Russian forces conducted a large-scale airstrike on Ukraine, launching 70 missiles and deploying 611 drones, impacting cities including Kyiv and Kharkiv. The strikes resulted in 9 fatalities and 37 injuries, with ongoing air defense operations reporting the downing of 632 aerial targets. The attacks targeted military infrastructure, marking a significant escalation in hostilities.

The French Army showcased the upgraded Leclerc XLR main battle tank with new roof-mounted cage armor at the Eurosatory defense show in Paris. This armor, designed to counter drone threats, is part of the Scorpion modernization program. The Army plans to bridge the gap between the Leclerc's service life ending in 2035 and the arrival of the Main Ground Combat System around 2045, which will incorporate advanced technologies including drones and AI.

General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS) showcases innovative military solutions at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris, focusing on Manned-Unmanned-Teaming for air defense. The event features new vehicle variants, including the PIRANHA GBAD and PANDUR GBAD, designed for countering aerial threats. GDELS emphasizes the integration of unmanned systems with manned platforms to enhance operational capabilities.

Lacroix, Bertin Technologies, and MC2 Technologies presented the S-KAPS Counter Drone system at Eurosatory 2026, designed to enhance armored vehicle protection against drone threats. This modular system integrates multiple detection layers, including the HADDES RF sensor and PeriSight Top Attack infrared system, to improve crew survivability in contested environments. The system represents a significant advancement in counter-drone technology.

The Russian military conducted large-scale airstrikes on military targets in Ukraine, primarily in Kyiv, on the 15th of the month. They launched 70 missiles and 611 drones, with Ukrainian air defenses reportedly intercepting 50 missiles and 582 drones. The strikes resulted in at least 4 fatalities and 25 injuries in Kyiv, while Tula, Russia, experienced drone attacks causing 3 deaths and injuries.