Analysis & Reports

The Czech Army is seeking to replace its Pandur II armoured personnel carriers, which have been in service for approximately 16 years. This move indicates a shift in military equipment strategy as the army looks to modernize its fleet.

Russian Aerospace Forces are experiencing severe losses of Su-34 and Su-35 aircraft in Ukraine, with 40 Su-34s and between 8 to over 25 Su-35s reported lost. This attrition is negatively impacting the morale and readiness of the VKS, raising concerns about their operational effectiveness in the ongoing conflict.

Czech defense company Excalibur International signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Turkish Aselsan on February 4, 2024, to produce the Korkut air defense system on a Tatra Force 6×6 platform in the European Union. This joint venture aims to localize production and expand air defense capabilities for European and global markets, addressing the demand for mobile air defense systems against UAVs. CSG also opened a representation office in Brussels to enhance engagement with European institutions.

The Finnish Army is transforming its military organization to enhance joint air-ground integration and deep battle capabilities in response to Russian aggression and NATO membership. By 2035, it aims to have over 185,000 personnel, focusing on modernization and integration of advanced systems like the F-35 and upgraded artillery. Key lessons from the Ukraine conflict are being applied, particularly in countering unmanned aerial systems and improving logistics.

The New START treaty between the United States and Russia is set to expire on February 5, 2023, without any negotiations for extension. This situation raises concerns about a potential increase in nuclear arsenals, as both nations could significantly boost their deployed warheads. The lack of ongoing arms reduction talks further exacerbates fears of a renewed global nuclear arms race.

Excalibur International and Aselsan signed a strategic cooperation agreement to establish a joint venture in the EU on February 04, 2026. They will introduce the Korkut air defense system integrated on the Tatra Force 6×6 wheeled platform, aiming to enhance defense capabilities for European and global markets. This partnership focuses on air defense, electronic warfare, and smart munitions, with production planned in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.

HENSOLDT received major orders from KNDS to equip combat and armored personnel carriers with digital optronics in Oberkochen, Germany, on February 4, 2026. The contracts, totaling over €400 million, include 288 sets for the BOXER RCT 30 (Schakal) and 301 sets for the LEOPARD 2 A8 main battle tank. These orders emphasize the transition to digital optronics, enhancing military capabilities and operational readiness.

Paramount Greece and MAC HUB announced a strategic defense partnership in Athens and Kyiv on February 4, 2026, focusing on the joint development of advanced land platforms. The collaboration has resulted in the launch of the MAC OWL (Sova), a new MRAP armored vehicle designed for contemporary battlefield threats. This partnership marks a significant step in enhancing Ukraine's defense manufacturing capabilities and reflects the evolving security landscape in Europe.

Russian forces conducted an assault using captured M113 armored personnel carriers near Hryshyne in eastern Ukraine. The operation occurred in dense fog, allowing them to advance undetected. Ukrainian operators from the 'Panama' unit engaged the Russian column, destroying one M113 while another withdrew. Five Russian soldiers were killed by drone strikes during the engagement.

A Polish court ordered the pretrial detention of a Ministry of National Defence employee on February 3 for espionage. The 60-year-old suspect, who has worked in the ministry since the 1990s, is accused of cooperating with foreign intelligence services, specifically Russian and Belarusian. This arrest follows months of monitoring by the Military Counterintelligence Service and reflects heightened counterintelligence activity in Poland amid increased espionage threats.

U.S. lawmakers express concerns about nuclear proliferation following the expiration of the New START treaty on February 5, 2023. Allies in Europe, Japan, and South Korea are considering developing their own nuclear deterrence systems. The report highlights rising tensions and the potential for a new arms race, particularly in light of China's rapid nuclear weapons development.

CSG and Aselsan signed a strategic cooperation agreement to establish a joint venture focused on defense capabilities in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. They will introduce the Korkut air defense system integrated on the Tatra Force 6×6 wheeled platform, targeting European and global markets. This partnership aims to enhance air defense, electronic warfare, and smart munitions capabilities.

Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that 55,000 Ukrainian soldiers have died in the conflict since 2022, with many more reported missing. A report from the Center for Strategic and International Studies estimates total casualties, including missing personnel, to be between 500,000 and 600,000, with deaths ranging from 100,000 to 140,000.

The report highlights the critical challenges of last-mile logistics in modern warfare, emphasizing the need for rapid and secure supply delivery in contested environments. It discusses the complexities introduced by dispersed combat elements and the evolving nature of military logistics, particularly in light of recent conflicts. The analysis includes insights from Russian military logistics adaptations and the impact of technological advancements on supply chain management.

Ukraine confirmed the shootdown of a Russian Su-34 fighter-bomber and an Su-30SM multirole fighter by a U.S.-made PAC-3 Patriot system. Both aircraft were equipped with advanced Khibiny electronic warfare systems, which failed to counter the Patriot. This incident highlights ongoing challenges faced by the Russian Aerospace Forces in Ukraine, with at least 23 Su-34s lost since the conflict began.

The T-14 Armata tank has been withdrawn from combat in Ukraine due to its high cost and the changing nature of warfare, where cheaper and simpler tanks like the T-72 are favored. The Russian Army acknowledges that the T-14's complex design is not suited for the attrition-heavy conflict, leading to a strategic shift towards mass production of more rugged and replaceable equipment. This reflects a broader trend in military operations where traditional main battle tanks are relegated to support roles.

Ukrainian President Zelensky reported on negotiations involving Ukraine and the U.S. regarding a prisoner exchange and conflict resolution. He stated that discussions on the outcomes of the talks would continue the following day. Zelensky highlighted the necessity of ending the conflict and urged partners to provide security guarantees against Russia.

The U.S. Air Force is set to begin refurbishment of 36 bungalows at Royal Air Force Base Croughton in May 2026, lasting approximately 15 months. Residents will need to relocate off-base as no military family housing will be available during this period. The project is funded by the USAF and aims to modernize living conditions for military families.

Chief Master Sgt. David R. Wolfe carries his father's service pin to connect with his role in the U.S. Air Force and to launch a new communication initiative. Wolfe, who was promoted in December 2025, aims to link the legacy of his father, a WWII photographer, to modern changes in the Air Force. His story is part of a monthly 'Why series' designed to address Airmen's questions about service priorities and changes.

Airbus and Singapore completed the certification of the Automatic Air to Air Refueling (A3R) capability for the Airbus A330 MRTT, marking a significant advancement in air-to-air refueling technology. The certification was granted by the Spanish National Institute for Aerospace Technology following extensive testing. The Republic of Singapore Air Force will benefit from this new capability, which is also attracting interest from other nations, including Canada and Thailand.