Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Britain will cut steel on the first SSN-AUKUS in 2027 to replace the Astute-class and the same BAE Barrow yards must still finish Astutes, build four Dreadnought SSBNs, and fix a fleet that has at times had all five Royal Navy attack boats unavailable
The United Kingdom confirmed that steel cutting for the first British SSN-AUKUS will begin in 2027, aiming to replace the Astute-class submarines. The Royal Navy is currently facing availability issues with its fleet, as all five Astute-class boats have been reported unavailable at times. The UK is also tasked with completing the Astute construction and building four Dreadnought SSBNs, highlighting significant logistical and industrial challenges.
Delivery of UK’s future tank capability remains uncertain
The UK is upgrading a small number of Challenger 2 tanks to the Challenger 3 standard. However, there is no confirmation regarding a successor program for these tanks.
I Am a Retired US Army Special Forces NCO: My Father Brought a Karabiner 98k Home From World War II With Its Matching Numbered Bayonet. Germany Built 14,600,000 of Them, and Every One Had to Put 3 of 5 Shots Into an 8cm by 12cm Box at 100 Meters Before Leaving the Factory.
Germany produced over 14.6 million Karabiner 98k rifles from 1934 to 1945, which were chambered in 7.92x57mm Mauser and featured a five-round internal magazine. The rifle was adopted as the standard service rifle on June 21, 1935, and was known for its reliability and accuracy, meeting strict factory standards. Its design has influenced numerous other firearms.
France’s Leclerc Main Battle Tank Might Not Be the US Army’s M1 Abrams or the Challenge 2 In Terms of Combat Power, But It Can Still Pack A Punch on Any Battlefield
The Leclerc Main Battle Tank, developed by France, entered full-scale production in 1990 and has been ordered in significant numbers by the United Arab Emirates. It features advanced technology, including a rapid autoloader and a sophisticated command system, making it a capable but less proven option compared to its NATO peers. Despite its lighter armor, the Leclerc is recognized for its excellent mobility and firepower.
Poland’s drone defenses get a way to work without GPS
Advanced Navigation signed an $18.5 million deal to supply inertial navigation systems for Kongsberg's PROTECTOR counter-drone platforms in Poland. This contract, part of the SAN CUAS program, involves 18 counter-drone batteries and aims to enhance tracking capabilities without GPS. The systems will help maintain operational effectiveness in electronically contested environments.
Ukraine codifies Dodge RAM 5500-based armoured pickup
Ukraine's Ministry of Defence has codified a new armored vehicle based on the Dodge RAM 5500, facilitating its supply to the Armed Forces. This move signifies an enhancement in military capabilities.
A tour of the Polish Defence Industry
EDR On-Line participated in a study tour of the Polish Defence Industry organized by PAIH in Kielce from September 8-11. The tour included visits to key defence companies and the MSPO exhibition, where new military systems were unveiled, including the MSBS Grot Warmate 30 and Gladius 2. Discussions focused on enhancing exports and promoting Polish defence capabilities.
Lockheed, Kongsberg test twin-Javelin setup on armored turret
The Javelin Joint Venture successfully conducted a simulation demonstration in Norway, testing a dual launcher assembly for the Javelin anti-tank missile on a Kongsberg Medium-Caliber Turret. This marks the first phase of integrating the Javelin system with vehicle-mounted turrets, enhancing its operational capabilities. The U.S. Army remains the primary customer for this advanced weapon system.
‘Pivotal Meeting’: Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Donald Trump Will Meet Today. Here’s What’s on the Agenda to Try and End the Ukraine War
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy met with US President Donald Trump in New York on 21 September 2025 to discuss initiatives aimed at ending the Russia-Ukraine war. The agenda included a potential mutual energy ceasefire and a new drone deal. Zelenskiy also planned to engage in 20 other meetings during his visit, emphasizing the urgency of diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict.
Fabryka Broni “Łucznik” Radom, for over 100 years manufacturing small arms for Poland
Fabryka Broni 'Łucznik' Radom is set to quadruple its small arms production to 80,000 firearms by 2025, primarily for the Polish armed forces and Ukraine. The Polish government has invested 108 million PLN in expanding the factory's capacity. Production includes the MSBS Grot assault rifle and new handguns, with a focus on quality control throughout the manufacturing process.
Estonian firms demonstrate latest UAS tech in live flights
Estonian firms Threod Systems, Krattworks, and Electrical Wings conducted UAS live flying demonstrations outside Tallinn. The event showcased the latest unmanned aerial systems technology, although specific details about the demonstrations were not provided.
UK Launches Torpedo with Unmanned Underwater Vehicle for the First Time
The UK government announced the successful test-firing of a torpedo from the 'Swordfish' unmanned submersible in UK waters on the 21st. This event marks a significant advancement in submarine technology and is part of the AUKUS defense cooperation with the US and Australia, which was established in September 2021.
PGZ, increasing production mainly for Poland while looking at export beyond 2030
Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) is increasing its defense production capacity in Poland, aiming to produce 150,000 155 mm artillery shells annually by late 2027. The group has signed contracts worth 15 billion euros for various military vehicles and is actively seeking international partnerships for ammunition production. Poland's defense spending is nearing 5% of its GDP, with significant funding from the SAFE program.
Heavy Weapon Carrier for the Infantry: Rheinmetall completes Factory Acceptance Test for new training equipment
Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH completed the Factory Acceptance Test for the Heavy Infantry Weapon Carrier training equipment at its Bremen site in June 2026. This milestone allows for crew training to commence alongside vehicle deliveries, with five AGSW systems expected to be handed over by mid-2027. The training solution includes a realistic gunnery and combat simulator, facilitating joint training for vehicle crews and dismounted infantry.
French Army gets upgraded Jaguar with new anti-tank missile
The French Army received its first 21 upgraded Jaguar armored vehicles built to the R3 standard as of September 4, 2023. These vehicles are part of the SCORPION modernization program and feature the Akeron MP anti-tank missile. France plans to order a total of 300 Jaguars to equip seven armored cavalry regiments by 2035, with deliveries continuing through 2030.
U.S. Army drone-defense vehicles shield artillery in Germany
U.S. Army air defense crews employed SGT STOUT vehicles to protect artillery units from drone threats during Saber Junction 26 at Hohenfels, Germany, from August 15 to September 13, 2023. The exercise involved approximately 2,300 paratroopers from the 173rd Airborne Brigade and over 2,100 allied troops facing 1,900 autonomous systems from the opposing force. The SGT STOUT system, which includes advanced radar and weaponry, allowed artillery units to maintain operations while monitoring drone threats.
MSPO 2026 – Fabryka Broni exhibits the production standard A3 version of its MSBS Grot
Fabryka Broni 'Łucznik' Radom showcased the MSBS Grot A3 assault rifle at the MSPO 2026 exhibition in Kielce, Poland, marking the start of its production. A contract for 46,000 units was signed with the Polish Army in June 2026. The A3 version incorporates significant upgrades based on user feedback, including improved ergonomics and functionality. The Polish Territorial Defence Forces participated in the evaluation process, emphasizing the importance of equipping reserve forces.
EU pays 3.3 billion euros for Ukrainian drones and missiles — and still does not buy European air defense
The European Commission allocated 3.3 billion euros for the purchase of Ukrainian drones and missiles on September 18, 2026, as part of a broader support package. This funding is intended to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities against Russian threats, particularly through the inclusion of PAC-3 interceptors. However, the report emphasizes the challenges in translating financial support into operational military readiness and the ongoing dependency on U.S. production capabilities.
Dr. Klaus WeberMon Sep 21 2026Loading...
The British Army’s General Dynamics Ajax Armored Fighting Vehicles Are Truly Circling the Drain
The British Army's Ajax armored fighting vehicle has faced significant health and safety issues, with 310 soldiers affected during trials from November 2025 to April 2026. The vehicle, costing £6.3 billion, has been criticized for being 'not fit for purpose' by MPs, leading to concerns over its operational readiness. Health problems reported include hearing loss and illness during military exercises, prompting calls for the Ministry of Defence to address these failures.
US approves air defence upgrades deal for Ukraine
The U.S. Department of State approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Ukraine for air defense upgrades valued at approximately $2.68 billion. This deal aims to enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities amid ongoing military tensions.
