Analysis & Reports

Helsing raised $1.8 billion in a funding round in Munich, Germany, significantly increasing its valuation to $18 billion. This funding will accelerate the development of AI platforms for defense capabilities, reflecting strong investor confidence in AI-driven defense technology. The company offers advanced products such as the HX-2 strike drone and collaborates with major defense firms.

Kongsberg Maritime announced the acquisition of Berg Propulsion on July 13 to enhance its marine propulsion portfolio. This strategic move aims to strengthen Kongsberg's market position and broaden its customer base. Berg Propulsion will continue to operate as a separate brand within Kongsberg Maritime, ensuring its agility and customer focus while leveraging Kongsberg's global capabilities.

Canada signed agreements with Australia to acquire the Arctic Over-The-Horizon Radar (A-OTHR) to enhance NORAD's airspace surveillance capabilities. The deal, valued at US$1.75 billion, aims to fill significant gaps in radar coverage, allowing detection of airborne and surface targets. The A-OTHR is expected to achieve initial operational capability by December 2029, improving monitoring of potential threats, including from Russia.

Hellenic Vehicle Industries (ELVO) and Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles GmbH (RMMV) held high-level meetings in Vienna, Austria, to advance their industrial cooperation. The discussions focused on the production of military trucks for the Greek market, following a Memorandum of Understanding signed earlier this year. Both companies plan to establish new production lines and increase personnel at ELVO's facilities in Thessaloniki, Greece.

Ukraine's military conducted a mass simultaneous strike using at least ten modified light aircraft to target an underground logistics hub in Armyansk, Crimea. The aircraft, converted from ultralight models, were equipped with Soviet-designed high-explosive bombs. This operation represents a significant evolution in Ukraine's military capabilities, showcasing their ability to utilize civilian technology for military purposes.

SCD secured three multi-million-dollar orders for its HOT HD MWIR detectors on July 13, 2026, in Haifa, Israel. These detectors will be integrated into counter-unmanned aerial systems and long-range surveillance platforms, reflecting the growing demand for advanced infrared technology in defense applications. SCD's manufacturing capabilities enable the delivery of thousands of detectors monthly, supporting large-scale defense programs.

Ukrainian forces conducted the world's first combat mission using a naval drone to deliver an armed ground robot to Russian-occupied Kinburn Spit on July 13. The operation involved the 123rd Separate Territorial Defense Brigade, which utilized an unmanned surface vessel to transport the Rys ground robot, equipped with a PKT machine gun, to carry out combat tasks behind enemy lines. This innovative tactic aims to minimize risks associated with conventional landings in heavily surveilled areas.

U.S. Central Command employed one-way attack sea drones against Iranian targets in the Strait of Hormuz on Sunday, marking a significant shift in military operations. The strikes targeted Iranian air-defense systems and coastal radar sites to reduce threats to civilian shipping. This operation is part of a broader campaign following increased Iranian attacks on commercial vessels since July 7.

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The Marine Corps is evaluating Ditto's technology to maintain local networks for AI tools during cloud outages. This initiative, part of Project Dynamis, aims to ensure communication in combat situations where cloud access is compromised. The focus is on creating a peer-to-peer data mesh using existing consumer devices like radios and cell phones, addressing vulnerabilities highlighted by recent conflicts.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington installed new counter-drone systems from Anduril Industries in 2025. The systems, including Anvil, Pulsar, and SpyGlass, enhance the base's defense against small drones. This installation is part of a broader initiative by Joint Interagency Task Force 401 to improve drone defense capabilities across U.S. military installations, addressing the increasing threat posed by small drones.

China and Russia conducted joint naval exercises near Qingdao, concluding on July 11, 2026. This marked the first instance of both nations' submarines operating together at sea, enhancing their collaborative military capabilities. The exercises focused on addressing maritime security threats and included real-time data sharing and joint command structures.

The U.S. military attacked local military facilities in Isfahan, Iran, in the early morning of the 13th, resulting in 1 death and 7 injuries.

Bridgepoint Group announced its investment in UMag Solutions, a Danish defense technology firm, on 13 July 2026. This partnership aims to enhance UMag's capabilities in drone-based subsurface threat detection, supporting its growth and international expansion. UMag's technology is critical for identifying landmines and naval threats, positioning it as a leader in defense technology.

On March 2, a Kuwaiti F/A-18 mistakenly shot down three U.S. F-15E aircraft. In March, over 100 Iranian naval vessels were destroyed while docked, and five U.S. tactical aircraft were lost in operations against Iran. Additionally, Israeli armored vehicles faced significant losses from drone attacks in Lebanon. The U.S. aircraft carrier also experienced a fire lasting over 30 hours.

U.S. Marines with the 3rd Reconnaissance Battalion conducted training on the Multi-Mission Reconnaissance Craft Bravo (Whiskey Bravo) at Naha Military Port, Okinawa, on June 5, 2024. The training focused on familiarization with the vessel's operations, including launching and recovery, and involved both classroom instruction and practical drills. This new capability is intended to enhance reconnaissance operations across the Western Pacific.

On July 9, 2026, Russia announced plans to strengthen military cooperation with the Sahel Alliance (AES) amid ongoing jihadist attacks in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. This cooperation aims to enhance military capabilities, including the provision of drones and electronic warfare systems. The AES faces challenges in maintaining security and effective military operations against insurgent threats in the region.

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U.S. Central Command struck dozens of Iranian military targets using one-way attack sea drones for the first time on Sunday. The operation aimed to degrade Iran's military capabilities threatening commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched strikes against U.S. military installations across the Gulf. Financial markets reacted to the escalation, with oil prices rising sharply.

The Hydis project has finalized a concept for a hypersonic interceptor based on a solid-propellant rocket motor in Paris. The European Defence Fund is set to allocate €100 million for this interceptor as part of its 2026 work program. The project aims to counter hypersonic threats, including glide vehicles and cruise missiles, with the final concept review recently validated by the steering committee.

Rheinmetall secured a nearly $1.1 billion contract to overhaul British Army training as part of a £2 billion program. The contract, awarded on July 10, will implement a blended training system over 15 years, combining live and virtual simulations. Operational implementation begins this summer, supporting around 400 jobs across the UK, including 270 skilled roles and 100 apprenticeships.

Kongsberg reported a 31% revenue increase to NOK 10,389 million and a nearly 50% rise in operating profit to NOK 1,669 million in the second quarter of 2023. The company secured multiple contracts for its Joint Strike Missile and NASAMS air defense system, with Canada selecting the missile for its F-35A fleet. Kongsberg also expanded its focus on subsea infrastructure protection, reflecting growing interest in defense procurement.