Analysis & Reports

The JAS 39 Gripen, developed by Saab AB, is a multirole fighter jet that entered service with the Swedish Air Force in 1996. It has evolved through various models, with the latest Gripen E/F variant introduced in 2019, featuring advanced radar and electronic warfare systems. The aircraft is designed for versatility in air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, supporting a wide range of weapons.

The Eurofighter Typhoon continues to attract export customers in Europe and beyond, maintaining its relevance in the air superiority market. Despite the rise of fifth-generation stealth fighters, the Typhoon's capabilities, including air-to-air performance and multirole functionality, make it an appealing option for many air forces. Its political and industrial advantages further enhance its attractiveness as a combat-proven aircraft.

NATO member states achieved a historic milestone in 2025 by reaching the 2% of GDP defense spending benchmark for the first time. European allies and Canada collectively increased their defense budgets by 20% compared to 2024, totaling $574 billion. Poland leads with a defense budget of 4.3% of GDP, reflecting heightened awareness of regional threats. Despite these increases, Europe still faces critical shortages in military capabilities and industrial constraints.

Alexandra ReevesSat Mar 28 2026Loading...

The Russian Air Force's Su-35 fighter jet is actively engaged in operations in Ukraine, showcasing its long-range capabilities and advanced weapon systems. While it lacks stealth features, the Su-35 is designed to counter NATO air defenses and maintain standoff engagement. The aircraft's performance highlights the evolving nature of modern warfare, where networks and logistics play a crucial role in determining success.

NATO member states increased their defense spending by 20% in real terms for 2025, reaching a total of 381 billion euros. This marks a significant shift in European defense policy, with all EU-NATO members meeting the 2% GDP target for the first time. Germany's defense budget is set to double compared to 2021, reflecting a broader trend of increased military investment across Europe in response to security threats.

Dr. Klaus WeberSat Mar 28 2026Loading...

USS Gerald R. Ford arrived in Split, Croatia on Saturday for repairs and maintenance following a non-combat fire incident that injured three sailors. The aircraft carrier, part of U.S. Navy operations, has been deployed for nine months and previously operated in the Red Sea and against Venezuela. The U.S. embassy stated that the visit aims to strengthen ties between the United States and Croatia.

USS Gerald R. Ford arrived in Split, Croatia on Saturday for repairs and maintenance following a non-combat fire incident that occurred on March 12, injuring three sailors. The carrier, which has been deployed for nine months, was previously involved in operations against Iran and Venezuela. It is staffed by over 5,000 sailors and carries more than 75 military aircraft, including F-18 Super Hornets.

USS Gerald R. Ford entered Split port in Croatia on March 28, 2023, for maintenance as part of its operational schedule. The Croatian government had approved the carrier's entry into its waters. The USS Ford, the lead ship of its class, has been deployed for about nine months and has previously engaged in military operations against Venezuela and Iran.

Russian forces' spring-summer offensive against Ukraine stalled in March 2026, with Ukrainian forces successfully counterattacking and liberating Berezove. Ukrainian long-range strikes have disrupted Russian oil exports significantly. Public criticism from Russian military commentators highlights systemic issues within the Russian military. Additionally, Russia plans to train over 70,000 drone operators to address operational challenges.

Dmitri VolkovSat Mar 28 2026Loading...

NATO allies collectively increased their defense expenditure by 20% in real terms compared to 2024, reaching an estimated €381 billion. This marks the first time all 32 member states met or exceeded the 2% of GDP defense spending target. Poland leads with 4.48% of GDP, while Germany allocated €95 billion, doubling its 2021 expenditure. The revised commitment calls for a 5% GDP allocation by 2035, reflecting a significant shift in European defense policy and spending.

Alexandra ReevesSat Mar 28 2026Loading...

European defense spending is projected to rise significantly, from €218 billion in 2021 to an estimated €381 billion by 2025, driven by geopolitical instability and Russian aggression. All NATO-affiliated EU states have surpassed the 2% GDP defense spending guideline, with a new goal of 5% by 2035. Germany plans to double its defense budget by 2025, while Poland faces political challenges regarding EU defense funding.

Dr. Klaus WeberSat Mar 28 2026Loading...

The USS Bush carrier strike group has departed from Norfolk, Virginia, for deployment to the Middle East. This move indicates that the U.S. may have three aircraft carriers engaged in military operations against Iran. The strike group includes the USS Bush and three destroyers: USS Ross, USS Donald Cook, and USS Mason. The USS Ford carrier is currently undergoing repairs in Greece after a fire incident.

FlyFocus developed the KURIER unmanned cargo helicopter in Poland, capable of carrying over 200 kilograms of cargo for special forces. Launched in February 2024, the project is nearing Technology Readiness Level 6, with capabilities to operate in GPS-degraded environments. The system aims to enhance military logistics and is funded by Poland’s National Centre for Research and Development.

Uvision established a new subsidiary, Uvision Europe GmbH, in Munich, Germany, on March 26 to support its loitering munition systems and expand operations in European defense markets. This move aims to enhance customer support and reduce response times, reflecting increased demand from European armed forces. The subsidiary will also focus on localized development projects and align future system upgrades with European operational requirements.

Swedish Front Ventures expanded its operations in Ukraine by appointing a local investment manager and partnering with a Lviv law firm to enhance engagement in the defense sector. The company aims to focus on joint development of drone systems and streamline coordination with Ukrainian partners. This initiative aligns with broader Swedish government efforts to bolster defense industrial cooperation with Ukraine, particularly in response to ongoing conflict dynamics.

Ukrainian forces conducted a strike against Russian drone operators and launch systems identified as 'Gerbera' near the former Donetsk International Airport. This operation aimed to intercept drone attacks before launch, reducing the threat to Ukrainian cities. The strike reflects a shift in strategy to target threats at their source, thereby alleviating pressure on air defense systems.

U.S. military operations in Iran have intensified over the past three weeks, with significant airstrikes conducted. The USS Gerald R. Ford is currently undergoing repairs in Greece, limiting U.S. air capabilities. Tomahawk missile stocks are depleting rapidly, leading to increased reliance on bombers like the B-2, B-1, and B-52. The demand for Patriot missile systems has surged, complicating logistics for U.S. forces.

Russian forces intensified military operations across Ukraine from March 23-27, 2026, launching a concentrated aerial campaign that deployed nearly 1,000 drones and missiles. The strikes targeted critical infrastructure, resulting in civilian casualties in Poltava and Zaporizhzhia. Concurrently, Russian ground operations maintained pressure in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts, with claims of territorial gains. The introduction of new drone systems indicates an evolving tactical approach as Russia prepares for a significant ground offensive.

Dmitri VolkovSat Mar 28 2026Loading...

Rheinmetall AG and Indra Group signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance strategic cooperation in military vehicle systems production. They plan to establish a joint venture to bid on a Spanish Army contract for up to 3,000 military trucks. This collaboration aims to modernize military vehicles and strengthen the European defense industrial base, focusing on projects in Spain, Germany, and Latin America.

Rheinmetall AG and Indra Group signed a memorandum of understanding to enhance cooperation in military vehicle systems production, focusing on a joint venture to bid on a Spanish Army contract for 3,000 military trucks. This agreement aims to modernize military vehicles and strengthen the European defense industrial base, with an emphasis on collaboration between Germany and Spain.