Analysis & Reports

NATO is projected to field 600 F-35 stealth fighters by 2030, significantly enhancing its air superiority over Russia, which struggles with limited fifth-generation capabilities. European nations are forming a multinational F-35 force, which will improve collaborative operations and intelligence sharing. The development of a common data file for F-35s aims to standardize threat identification and enhance joint operations against potential Russian incursions.

Russian forces conducted airstrikes on energy infrastructure in Odesa city and Mykolaiv region from the evening of January 26 to the early morning of January 27, injuring at least 24 people. The attacks involved over 50 drones, causing significant damage to buildings and resulting in power outages across multiple regions, including Kharkiv and Odesa. Emergency power cuts were implemented in Kyiv due to ongoing shortages.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte stated that Europe cannot defend itself without U.S. support during a recent meeting. He emphasized the need for Europe to build its own nuclear capabilities and increase defense spending. France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot countered that Europeans must take charge of their own security through a European pillar within NATO. The discussion reflects ongoing concerns about U.S. reliability as an ally in European defense matters.

SYOS Aerospace has been selected to advance to the next stage of Project NYX in the United Kingdom, focusing on developing wingman drones to operate alongside Apache attack helicopters. This initiative is part of the UK government's Strategic Defence Review, aiming to integrate uncrewed aircraft into combat formations. The project emphasizes rapid development and collaboration with industry partners to enhance military capabilities.

The Kronos Grand Naval radar was installed at the Shore Integration Facility in Saint-Mandrier, France, on 17 December 2025, marking a significant milestone in the Horizon Mid-Life-Upgrade Programme. This installation is crucial for the qualification and acceptance of the PAAMS system, with operational testing planned for the coming year. The upgraded anti-air warfare frigates are expected to be delivered between 2028 and 2030.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius announced that the Bundeswehr aims to achieve combat readiness by 2029 and plans to expand its active military forces to 260,000 by 2035. He criticized former President Trump's remarks about NATO allies in Afghanistan, emphasizing the sacrifices made by German soldiers. Currently, the Bundeswehr has 59 soldiers who died in Afghanistan, and recent recruitment efforts have yielded the best results since conscription was suspended.

European nations are rapidly increasing defense production to achieve military self-sufficiency, particularly in response to Russian threats and U.S. military support concerns. Germany's Rheinmetall has opened multiple new factories, and defense spending has doubled over the past decade. By 2035, European defense spending is expected to reach 80% of U.S. levels, with a growing preference for domestically produced weapons over U.S. imports.

David Saw has been appointed as the Editor-in-Chief of European Security & Defence (ESD), aiming to evolve the publication to reflect the changing European defense environment. ESD will feature contributions from various writers across Europe and will focus on in-depth articles and timely responses to defense issues. The goal is to solidify ESD's position as a leading defense magazine in Europe.

Various militaries are evolving their minefield breaching systems to address increasing threats from UAVs and precision strikes, particularly in the context of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Armoured breaching vehicles (ABVs) and unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) are being developed to enhance breaching capabilities while minimizing personnel risk. Artillery is also being considered for breaching operations, although it presents its own challenges.

Winston Churchill pursued a military career after being commissioned as a second lieutenant in the British Army in 1895. He fought in the Battle of Omdurman and became a prisoner of war during the Second Boer War. As First Lord of the Admiralty in World War I, he oversaw the Dardanelles Campaign, which ended in failure, leading to his dismissal from the position.

Spain's 15th Wing deployed the Crow counter-drone system to Šiauliai Air Base in Lithuania as part of NATO's air policing mission. This marks the first integration of a dedicated counter-drone system with fighter jets in the Baltic region. The Crow system enhances air defense capabilities against increasing drone threats, reflecting NATO's strategic shift in addressing emerging aerial challenges.

Ukrainian President Zelensky signed a law extending the wartime status and mobilization order for an additional 90 days, now set to expire on May 4. This decision reflects ongoing military readiness amid the conflict.

The U.S. Navy has ordered 24 Arleigh Burke Flight III destroyers, enhancing naval capabilities with advanced AN/SPY-6(V)1 radar and Aegis Baseline 10 combat systems. These destroyers, known for their multi-mission flexibility, are crucial for modern naval warfare and are currently under construction. The integration of these systems significantly improves ballistic missile defense and operational effectiveness in various maritime environments.

Russia's Kilo-class submarines have been actively engaged in military operations in the Black Sea, launching Kalibr missile strikes against Ukrainian targets. These submarines, known for their stealth capabilities, are in service with several nations, including China and Iran. Despite facing losses in surface ships, the Russian Navy continues to leverage the operational advantages of its Kilo-class submarines during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Airbus Helicopters secured 544 gross orders in 2025, reflecting strong growth in both civil and military sectors. Spain ordered 100 helicopters for its armed forces, while Germany increased its H145M fleet. The company is expanding its production capabilities in India and has introduced new models like the H160M 'Guépard', enhancing its military offerings.

The Italian Navy launched the Major Hydro-Oceanographic Ship 'Quirinale' at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Riva Trigoso on January 26, 2026. The vessel, designed for scientific mapping and monitoring, can accommodate up to 140 personnel and features advanced instrumentation, including an autonomous underwater vehicle. The launch underscores Italy's commitment to enhancing maritime research and security capabilities.

The Italian Navy launched the Major Hydro-Oceanographic Ship Quirinale at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Riva Trigoso on January 26, 2026. The vessel, designed for scientific mapping and monitoring, can accommodate up to 140 personnel and features advanced instrumentation, including an autonomous underwater vehicle. The launch was attended by key officials, highlighting its significance for Italy's maritime research and security capabilities.

Leonardo conducted a demonstration of its FITS4TOP project in Venegono Superiore, Italy, on 26/01/2026, showcasing advanced military pilot training capabilities. The project, co-funded by the EU, aims to enhance training through integrated live, virtual, and constructive environments. It involves collaboration among Italy, Denmark, France, and Romania, utilizing advanced technologies such as AI and augmented reality.

The UK Ministry of Defence announced on January 24, 2026, that seven companies have been selected to develop unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) under Project NYX, intended to operate alongside British Army Apache attack helicopters. The UAVs will enhance military capabilities in reconnaissance, strike, and electronic warfare, with initial operational capability expected by 2030. This initiative reflects the UK's strategic shift towards integrating advanced technology in military operations.

Seven suppliers, including Anduril, BAE, Leonardo, Lockheed, Syos, Tekever, and Thales, have been selected to design a new Apache wingman in the United Kingdom. This initiative highlights advancements in military technology and the development of new weapon systems.