Analysis & Reports

Germany is facing a fighter aircraft gap following the collapse of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program in 2026. The German Air Force is considering purchasing additional F-35s or joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to address this issue. The collapse of FCAS raises concerns about NATO's European defense capabilities and the need for a unified approach to military procurement.

Alexandra ReevesThu Jun 11 2026Loading...

Allen-Vanguard secured over $3 million in contracts for its Electronic Countermeasure systems to enhance force protection and C-IED capabilities in Africa. The contracts include comprehensive training and support for users and technicians. These systems aim to improve protection against Radio Controlled Improvised Explosive Devices and Uncrewed Air Systems threats.

Galvion showcased the HALO configuration of its Cortex EVO™ system at Eurosatory 2026, enhancing military helmet capabilities. This new configuration is designed for both new and existing helmet platforms, integrating advanced features such as visual augmentation and audio communication. The Cortex EVO™ system aims to improve survivability and situational awareness for military operators.

Elbit Systems and Diehl Defence signed a strategic partnership in Berlin on June 11, 2026, to jointly offer the SkyStriker loitering munition system to the German Armed Forces. This advanced system is designed for high-precision strikes and can be launched from multiple platforms. The collaboration aims to strengthen Germany's defense capabilities and includes local manufacturing and support if awarded relevant contracts.

Senop is launching the OSKAR TWS, a new multi-weapon thermal smart sight compatible with the NAMMO M72 shoulder-fired systems, at the EUROSATORY 2026 exhibition in Paris from June 15-19, 2026. This sight enhances the M72's accuracy and night fighting capabilities, featuring a Laser Range Finder and a ballistic computer. The official announcement of this capability will take place on June 16, 2026.

Thales has been commissioned by the German Armed Forces to deliver 60 GO12 short-range battlefield radar systems, which are capable of detecting drones and vehicles at 360°. The delivery is scheduled for 2026, and Thales is expanding its production capacity in Ditzingen, Germany, including plans to hire 300 new employees to support this growth.

Germany announced the procurement of the SkyStriker loitering munition system on June 11, 2026, in Berlin. This system, developed by Diehl Defence and Elbit Systems, features a range of over 200 kilometers and a payload capacity of up to 10 kilograms. The Bundeswehr is integrating multiple systems to enhance its military capabilities, reflecting a strategic shift in response to lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict.

Dr. Klaus WeberThu Jun 11 2026Loading...

Rheinmetall and ERC System signed a memorandum of understanding with the state of North Rhine-Westphalia to establish a facility for the production of the Victor U250 heavy-lift drone. This initiative aims to create hundreds of jobs by 2029 and enhance local production capabilities for military logistics and disaster response. The drone features a payload capacity of 250 kilograms and a range of 300 kilometers.

Ondas Inc. launched LADOS, a Layered Autonomous Defense Operational C2 System, on June 10, 2026, in West Palm Beach. This system integrates various defense technologies to enhance operational capabilities across multiple domains, supporting mission execution and coordination. LADOS aims to reduce operator workload and improve decision-making in complex defense environments.

The Berlin Air Show on June 11, 2026, featured a focus on space capabilities and defense technology. Various defense technology companies showcased innovations, including a model rocket, electric VTOL UAVs, and the engine for a Eurofighter Typhoon. British firm Rolls Royce presented a concept powerplant for Collaborative Combat Aircraft.

Airbus Defence and Space and Alta Ares signed a memorandum of understanding in Berlin on 11 June 2026 to develop and integrate European counter-drone solutions. This partnership aims to enhance air defense capabilities against suicide drones, leveraging Airbus' integration expertise and Alta Ares' AI-powered systems. The Black Bird interceptor and X-Lock system are key components of this initiative, with operational deployments noted in Ukraine since 2024.

Senop is launching the OSKAR TWS, a new multi-weapon thermal sight compatible with the NAMMO M72 shoulder fired systems, at the EUROSATORY 2026 exhibition in Paris from June 15-19, 2026. This sight enhances accuracy and effective shooting distance, featuring a Laser Range Finder and a ballistic computer. The collaboration with Nammo Raufoss AS has been ongoing for 18 months, aiming to improve the M72's night fighting capabilities.

The 74th Group Army conducted live-fire exercises at night in Guangxi and the South China Sea, utilizing portable surface-to-air missiles and executing anti-missile ambushes. These exercises reflect a focus on real combat scenarios and new tactics.

The 71st Group Army conducted practical explosive training for engineering troops at a training ground in Suhua North, China. Troops assessed their demolition capabilities using various explosive devices against different obstacles. New soldiers participated in the training under the guidance of experienced personnel to enhance their skills and psychological resilience. The exercises aimed to prepare the troops for diverse combat tasks.

India conducted the first test flight of the Airbus C295 military transport aircraft at the Tata-Airbus Final Assembly Line in Vadodara, Gujarat, in 2023. This aircraft is part of a program to assemble 40 C295s in India, marking a significant milestone in the country's defense manufacturing capabilities. The C295 is designed to replace the aging Avro HS 748 turboprop and will enhance the Indian Air Force's tactical transport capabilities.

Elbit Systems and Diehl Defence announced a partnership at the ILA Berlin Air Show to provide the SkyStriker loitering munition to the German Armed Forces. This collaboration aims to enhance Germany's defense capabilities by integrating proven Israeli technology with German manufacturing. The SkyStriker, capable of autonomous target engagement, supports Germany's shift towards organic precision strike capabilities in response to evolving military needs.

Elbit Systems and Diehl Defence signed a strategic partnership agreement in Berlin on June 10, 2026, to jointly offer the SkyStriker advanced loitering munition system to the German Armed Forces. This system is designed for high-precision strikes and can be launched from multiple platforms. The partnership aims to enhance Germany's defense capabilities through local manufacturing and support.

Aktyvus Photonics has developed a compact laser targeting system for small drones, planning to produce over 600 units annually by 2027. The systems, including the BAUDĖJAS and STRIKER MINI modules, are ITAR-free, allowing for easier integration by European defense companies. Lithuania's defense spending has reached approximately $5.9 billion, reflecting its strategic position on NATO's eastern flank and commitment to supporting Ukraine.

The Taiwanese military conducted live-fire exercises with 6 HIMARS launchers, firing 32 M28 training rockets near the Dajia River on June 10. This exercise demonstrated rapid deployment and precision strike capabilities, with the aim of complicating potential Chinese military operations. Four rockets failed to ignite, highlighting reliability concerns. The exercise is part of Taiwan's efforts to enhance its military readiness in the face of potential threats from the mainland.

Li MinghuiThu Jun 11 2026Loading...

CSG Group will showcase military equipment and technologies at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris from 15 to 19 June 2026. The exhibition will feature the Tadeas 4×4 vehicle, Tatra Force 8×8, and the Trident air defence system, among others. Various subsidiaries will present their latest innovations, including artillery systems and ammunition.