Analysis & Reports

Germany will send conventional troops to participate in French nuclear exercises for the first time this year. The Franco-German Defense and Security Council met in North Rhine-Westphalia on October 16-17, where leaders emphasized strengthening defense cooperation. Additionally, military exercises for the European volunteer coalition aiding Ukraine are planned for this fall, with Germany involved.

Russian forces conducted 19 cluster strikes targeting Ukrainian ports and military infrastructure on the 17th, while Ukrainian forces repelled attacks and shot down 1879 drones. Ukrainian forces also launched long-range strikes against Russian targets, including a successful attack on the Engels Air Base, damaging a Tu-95 strategic bomber. Both sides continue to engage in active military operations across multiple fronts.

Germany will send conventional troops to participate in French nuclear exercises for the first time, as announced by Chancellor Merz on July 17, 2023. This decision follows a meeting of the Franco-German Defense and Security Council in North Rhine-Westphalia. Both nations aim to strengthen defense cooperation, particularly in nuclear deterrence and military exercises involving Ukraine planned for the fall.

The UK has officially launched its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, naming it 'Storm Fighter', which will operate alongside the Typhoon and F-35. This initiative is part of a broader plan to establish Europe's first sixth-generation air force, with a $6.6 billion investment in drones over the next four years. The Royal Air Force aims to achieve operational capability for the CCA by the end of the decade, enhancing its combat capabilities with new unmanned systems.

The UK announced a €300 million investment to support Ukraine's acquisition of 16 Gripen E fighter jets by 2029, aimed at modernizing its air force. This initiative includes training and logistical support but does not address Ukraine's immediate air defense needs against ongoing Russian attacks. The UK is also providing drones and air defense missiles this year to bolster Ukraine's capabilities in the short term.

Alexandra ReevesFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

The Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom will highlight advancements in sixth-generation fighter jets and increased interest in drone production. A team will be present to provide daily updates, including reports, videos, and photos from the exhibition.

Farnborough 2026 showcased 1,600 exhibitors, with half from the defense sector, reflecting a shift towards military capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions. The European defense industry faces challenges in meeting demand for munitions and advanced systems, as highlighted by the contrasting speeds of startups like Helsing and established firms like MBDA. The report underscores the importance of effective procurement and military readiness in the context of increased defense budgets.

Dr. Klaus WeberFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

Germany is purchasing 4 MEKO A-200 DEU frigates for 6.3 billion euros to replace the canceled F126 program, which faced delays and cost overruns. Saab will provide key sensor and combat management systems for these ships. The decision aims to enhance NATO capabilities in the Atlantic, North Sea, and Baltic Sea by ensuring timely availability of naval assets.

Dr. Klaus WeberFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

The Russian army is intensifying drone strikes on fuel stations, buses, and trucks in Ukraine as part of a logistics campaign. This operation, led by the elite Rubicon drone unit, aims to disrupt Ukrainian supply lines by targeting civilian logistics. The drones involved include Lightning and Lancet models, which are capable of real-time targeting. This shift in tactics is a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian fuel infrastructure, increasing the operational costs for Ukrainian forces.

Dmitri VolkovFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

The European Union and Ukraine signed a drone deal to enhance the production of unmanned systems, aiming to increase Ukraine's drone output from 10 million to 20 million annually. This agreement includes joint ventures between selected Ukrainian and European defense companies, with an initial meeting scheduled in Brussels. The EU has committed €1 billion to bolster Ukraine's drone capabilities as part of its support.

The Farnborough Airshow, taking place from July 20 to 24, 2023, will prominently feature defense, with half of the 1,600 exhibitors focusing on weapons and technology due to escalating global security risks. The Royal Air Force's Air Chief Marshal highlighted the evolving security threats, while defense spending in Europe is at its highest since the Cold War. Companies are increasingly investing in AI and drone technology to meet military needs.

Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) destroyed a Tupolev Tu-95 strategic bomber at Engels airfield in Russia in July 2025. This operation is part of Ukraine's ongoing long-range strikes against Russian military targets. The Tu-95 had been utilized by Russia for missile strikes against Ukraine, and its destruction represents a significant loss for Russia's strategic bomber fleet.

Ukrainian officials, including Commissioner Vlasiuk, criticized claims from the electronic warfare industry about the ability to deflect Russian ballistic missiles. Filimonov from Kvertus asserted that electronic warfare could influence missile accuracy, while the Night Watch group claimed success in disrupting a missile strike. However, skepticism remains, with reports indicating that several missiles have successfully hit their targets despite these claims.

KNDS Deutschland showcased various UAV integration solutions at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris. The Boxer 8×8 platform was displayed, capable of carrying multiple drones for ISR and counter-UAS operations. A container-based system was introduced for long-endurance drone deployment, while the Dingo 4×4 RIWp was presented as a light armored counter-UAS solution.

Russian recruits are suffering high casualty rates, with many killed or wounded within 20 to 30 minutes of arriving at the Ukrainian front due to drone attacks. The casualty ratio is reported at nearly 8-to-1 in favor of Ukraine, with over 1.4 million Russian casualties since February 2022. Ukraine's advanced drone warfare strategy, utilizing various drone types and electronic warfare, has created a challenging environment for Russian forces, which are struggling to adapt and maintain effective combat power.

Alexandra ReevesFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

Germany is procuring four MEKO A-200 DEU frigates from Saab, with deliveries expected between 2029 and 2032, in response to the failed F126 program. This deal, valued at approximately 900 million USD, includes advanced combat systems and reflects a shift towards integrating Swedish technology to meet NATO requirements. The procurement aims to enhance Germany's naval capabilities amid increasing geopolitical pressures.

Dr. Klaus WeberFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

Ovzon received a supplementary order for 36 mobile satellite terminals from a European customer, valued at 36 MSEK (3.7 MUSD). Deliveries are scheduled for 2026, building on a partnership that began in March 2024 with an initial order that included SATCOM-as-a-Service. CEO Per Norén emphasized the expanded use cases of the terminals.

Embraer delivered the first C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft to the Czech Air Force at Prague Kbely Air Base on July 16, 2026. This delivery, occurring 20 months after the contract signing, significantly enhances the Czech Air Force's airlift capabilities for various missions, including support for NATO operations. The C-390 is recognized as a modern military transport aircraft with advanced operational features.

Saab signed a contract with TKMS to equip four new MEKO A-200 DEU class frigates for the German Navy. The order, valued at approximately SEK 8.7 billion, includes advanced combat systems and sensors, with deliveries scheduled between 2029 and 2032. This initiative aims to enhance the Navy's capabilities in anti-air, anti-submarine, and anti-surface warfare.

UK Prime Minister Starmer announced the provision of 16 modernized Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine during his visit to Kyiv on the 16th. This military aid, valued at 300 million euros, aims to enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities. The aircraft are expected to be delivered by 2029, with production involving multiple UK companies. Sweden will also supply a total of 32 Gripen jets, including 16 used ones.