Analysis & Reports

German and Spanish companies, including Airbus and Indra, are urging their governments to continue funding for sixth-generation fighter jet development after the Future Combat Air System program was dropped. They warn that a lack of funding could result in an irreversible loss of expertise. The companies emphasize the need for a multinational approach to maintain European air combat capabilities.

Patria and Etteplan are deepening their partnership by establishing a Defence Competence Centre in Finland, focusing on vehicle engineering and documentation for Patria's Protected Mobility business area. This collaboration aims to meet the growing demand for Patria's armoured vehicles, leveraging Etteplan's expertise and AI solutions. The two companies have a long history of engineering collaboration and have signed a Letter of Intent to expand their partnership further.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey resigned on 11 June, citing inadequate funding for defense as the reason. The announcement was made via the social media platform X. This resignation may impact UK defense policy and military funding.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey resigned on 11 June, citing inadequate funds for defense as the reason. The announcement was made on the social media platform X, indicating a significant political shift within the UK government regarding defense policy.

UK Defence Secretary John Healey resigned on 11 June, announcing his decision via the social media platform X. This resignation may have implications for defense policy and funding in the UK.

John Healey resigned as UK Defence Secretary on June 11, 2026, citing insufficient defense funding that could compromise national security. Al Carns, Minister for the Armed Forces, also resigned, expressing concerns over inadequate investment in defense capabilities. The UK Treasury and Ministry of Defence are currently at odds over the budget, with Healey seeking £18 billion but only receiving £12 billion. The upcoming Defence Investment Plan is expected to detail future procurement priorities.

Northrop Grumman received a $31 million contract modification to sustain Poland's advanced air and missile defense system, with work based in Huntsville, Alabama, and completion expected by December 31, 2029. This contract enhances the WISLA Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System, which integrates the Patriot missile system with the IBCS, making Poland's air defense network one of the most advanced in NATO. Poland is significantly increasing its defense spending in response to regional security threats.

Defence Secretary John Healey resigned from the UK government on June 11, 2026, citing inadequate defence spending that jeopardizes military readiness. He expressed concerns that the Defence Investment Plan does not meet the urgent needs of the armed forces, particularly in light of intelligence assessments predicting a potential Russian attack on NATO by 2030. Healey's resignation highlights a significant political crisis regarding military funding and national security commitments.

Airbus Defence and Space signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Rohde & Schwarz, constellr, Orbint, and HPS in Berlin on 10 June 2026 to collaborate on a satellite-based Earth observation and ISR solution. This consortium aims to develop sovereign surveillance capabilities for Europe, addressing the growing demand for independent space intelligence. The partnership combines expertise from five German companies to enhance operational capabilities in the ISR domain.

Germany is facing a fighter aircraft gap following the collapse of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program in 2026. The German Air Force is considering purchasing additional F-35s or joining the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) to address this issue. The collapse of FCAS raises concerns about NATO's European defense capabilities and the need for a unified approach to military procurement.

Alexandra ReevesThu Jun 11 2026Loading...

Elbit Systems and Diehl Defence signed a strategic partnership in Berlin on June 11, 2026, to jointly offer the SkyStriker loitering munition system to the German Armed Forces. This advanced system is designed for high-precision strikes and can be launched from multiple platforms. The collaboration aims to strengthen Germany's defense capabilities and includes local manufacturing and support if awarded relevant contracts.

Germany announced the procurement of the SkyStriker loitering munition system on June 11, 2026, in Berlin. This system, developed by Diehl Defence and Elbit Systems, features a range of over 200 kilometers and a payload capacity of up to 10 kilograms. The Bundeswehr is integrating multiple systems to enhance its military capabilities, reflecting a strategic shift in response to lessons learned from the Ukraine conflict.

Dr. Klaus WeberThu Jun 11 2026Loading...

Elbit Systems and Diehl Defence announced a partnership at the ILA Berlin Air Show to provide the SkyStriker loitering munition to the German Armed Forces. This collaboration aims to enhance Germany's defense capabilities by integrating proven Israeli technology with German manufacturing. The SkyStriker, capable of autonomous target engagement, supports Germany's shift towards organic precision strike capabilities in response to evolving military needs.

Elbit Systems and Diehl Defence signed a strategic partnership agreement in Berlin on June 10, 2026, to jointly offer the SkyStriker advanced loitering munition system to the German Armed Forces. This system is designed for high-precision strikes and can be launched from multiple platforms. The partnership aims to enhance Germany's defense capabilities through local manufacturing and support.

Aktyvus Photonics has developed a compact laser targeting system for small drones, planning to produce over 600 units annually by 2027. The systems, including the BAUDĖJAS and STRIKER MINI modules, are ITAR-free, allowing for easier integration by European defense companies. Lithuania's defense spending has reached approximately $5.9 billion, reflecting its strategic position on NATO's eastern flank and commitment to supporting Ukraine.

Boeing introduced the MQ-28 Ghost Bat at ILA 26 in Germany, highlighting its capabilities for manned-unmanned teaming with the German Bundeswehr. The aircraft is designed for various missions, including electronic warfare and reconnaissance. It is expected to be operational with the Royal Australian Air Force by 2028, with significant investments made in its development. The partnership with Rheinmetall aims to deliver this capability to the German Air Force by 2029.

The German military is evaluating options for drone wingmen during the Berlin Air Show, while also discussing the Future Air Combat System fighter jet. Several companies showcased their offerings on the first day of the event, highlighting the military's aggressive buildup in drone technology.

The GCAP project, involving the UK, Italy, and Japan, is experiencing delays due to funding issues and rising tensions between Tokyo and London. The UK plans to invest at least £12 billion over the next decade, but budget constraints may lead to delays. Meanwhile, the US is advancing its own sixth-generation fighter projects, including the F-47 and F/A-XX, with significant costs and uncertainties surrounding their development.

Germany and France have halted the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) project due to unresolved disputes over development and funding. The project, which aimed to create a sixth-generation fighter jet by 2040, faced challenges from differing military requirements and budget concerns. The total budget for the project has reached 100 billion euros, with France's insistence on nuclear capabilities complicating collaboration.

Russia's Foreign Ministry demands the U.S. withdraw its nuclear weapons from Europe and dismantle related facilities, asserting that these weapons pose a strategic threat to Russia. The Russian envoy criticized the nuclear policies of the UK and France, claiming they undermine regional stability. The U.S. has over 100 B61-12 tactical nuclear bombs deployed in Europe, with Poland and Baltic states expressing interest in hosting them.