Analysis of drone deployment, tactical innovation, and defense strategies within armed forces, focusing on European and allied military operations.
policy
Uwe Horstmann, the new CEO of Stark, emphasizes the need for Europe to rethink its military procurement strategies. As the first chief executive of the German drone start-up, Horstmann aims to influence how defense contracts are awarded, particularly in the drone sector.
defense
The EU has raised alarms over a clandestine Russian 'shadow fleet' comprising approximately 1,400 tankers. Operating under the radar with disabled transponders and false flags, this fleet not only aids in circumventing sanctions but also poses significant environmental risks.
Events
The EUDIS Defence Hackathon, held from October 17-19, 2025, saw participation from 471 innovators across eight European locations, including significant representation from Ukraine.
benelux
The Netherlands has signed a letter of intent to participate in the U.S. Air Force’s collaborative combat aircraft program, enhancing its F-35 fleet. This partnership aims to strengthen transatlantic defense ties and address security threats amid rising drone activity in Europe.
regulation
The European Commission has launched its Defense Readiness Roadmap, aiming to bolster the EU's military capabilities by 2030 in response to evolving threats, particularly from Russia. The roadmap includes four flagship projects to enhance collective security.
defense
Germany and the Netherlands have finalized a €3.4 billion ($4 billion) deal for the procurement of Jackal infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) through OCCAR. This contract includes 150 units for Germany and 72 for the Netherlands, with potential for additional units.
central-eastern-europe
The French Army's 35th Parachute Artillery Regiment successfully conducted its first live-fire demonstration of the PROTEUS counter-drone system on October 18 at the Canjuers training area. This marks a significant milestone as they become the first unit to utilize the latest Standard 1 version of t
iberia
Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez faces criticism for low military spending and insufficient support for Ukraine amidst NATO's push for increased defense commitments.
Local Players
Bulgaria has emerged as a significant player in the production of kamikaze drones, reflecting a growing trend in military technology. This article delves into the operations of a Bulgarian factory specializing in these unmanned aerial vehicles, highlighting the implications for regional security.
defense
On October 15, the European Commission unveiled its Defence Readiness Roadmap 2030, emphasizing the need for enhanced defenses against emerging threats, particularly from unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
Ukraine
In response to the ongoing conflict, Europe is developing a cost-effective anti-drone rocket designed to combat UAV threats in Ukraine. This innovative weapon disperses a cloud of steel balls, enhancing its effectiveness against enemy drones.
Local Players
At AUSA 2025, Israel Aerospace Industries' BlueBird Aero Systems and AEVEX Aerospace introduced the OmniRaider, a new vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAV. This innovative drone is designed for various applications, enhancing operational capabilities in military and civilian sectors.