The UK has tested its new Skyhammer interceptor missiles in Jordan to counter drone threats. The system, developed by Cambridge Aerospace, is part of a new defence contract, with deliveries to UK forces expected to begin in May.
The UK Ministry of Defence will conduct a major wargame with five defence companies to assess how supply chains would perform during sustained conflict. The exercise will examine risks, capacity constraints and policy responses to maintain military equipment supply.
Airbus and Spanish industry have launched the Integrated Combat Training System programme to replace Spain’s F-5 fleet. The project includes 30 SAETA II aircraft, simulators, and training systems, with deliveries planned between 2031 and 2035.
Boeing and the U.S. Navy have completed the first test flight of the MQ-25A Stingray unmanned aircraft. The two-hour demonstrated autonomous taxi, takeoff, flight, and landing, along with integration with ground control systems as part of carrier preparation.
Global military spending reached $2.89 trillion in 2025, according to SIPRI, marking the 11th consecutive annual increase. Growth was driven by higher expenditure in Europe and Asia, while US spending declined due to reduced military aid approvals.
DRDO has flagged off indigenous Advanced Armoured Platforms under the Vikram VT 21 programme, developed with Tata Advanced Systems and Bharat Forge. The tracked and wheeled vehicles feature a 30 mm crewless turret, modular protection, and are designed for multiple combat roles.
The U.S. Army has tested the Braker drone-delivered warhead at Redstone Arsenal, moving from concept to live-fire in two weeks. The system is designed for use with small unmanned aircraft and supports rapid development and integration of new battlefield capabilities.
The Australian Government has committed AU$750 million for 268 next-generation Bushmaster vehicles to be built by Thales Australia. Production will begin in 2027, with upgrades to protection, mobility, and modular systems and a left-hand drive version for the export market.
![Colonel Daniel Rydberg, who will take command of the NATO’s Forward Land Forces [FLF] in Finland | Photo: Försvarsmakten/David Luttu Carr](https://i0.wp.com/stratpost.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/04/260422-C-flf-davcar05-154258f.jpg?fit=150%2C84&ssl=1)
Sweden will take command of NATO’s Forward Land Forces in Finland this summer, marking its first role as a Framework Nation. The multinational force will support deterrence and defence operations in Northern Europe, with a battalion group based in Sweden.
Norway and Ukraine have signed an agreement to begin joint production of Ukrainian drones in Norway under the “Build with Ukraine” initiative. The deal includes industrial cooperation, research, and supply chain development, with deliveries expected before summer.
The U.S. Space Force has launched the final GPS III satellite, completing a 32-satellite constellation. The GPS III-8 mission includes new technologies such as optical crosslinks and improved timing systems to support military and civilian navigation services worldwide.
Airbus, Thales Alenia Space and RADMOR have signed an agreement to develop a geostationary defence communications satellite for Poland. The system will support secure military communications and includes both space and ground infrastructure components.
Australia has signed a contract with Japan for three Mogami-class frigates, part of a planned fleet of eleven ships. The first vessels will be built in Japan and delivered from 2029, with later construction expected to shift to Western Australia.
The United Kingdom will supply at least 120,000 drones to Ukraine in 2026 as part of a wider military support programme. The package includes strike, reconnaissance and logistics drones, alongside artillery and air defence support.
The B-21 Raider stealth bomber has demonstrated aerial refuelling during flight tests with a KC-135 tanker. The trials are part of ongoing evaluations of range, endurance, and mission systems as Northrop Grumman advances development of the aircraft.
