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.
Germany’s chancellor said the U.S. is struggling in its conflict with Iran, warning there is no clear path to end it. He said the situation is complex and affecting economies, while tensions continue to impact global trade.
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.
Germany plans to send a minehunter to the Mediterranean ahead of a possible mission in the Strait of Hormuz. The move supports efforts to secure shipping routes after tensions disrupted global trade.
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.
Germany’s chancellor said Ukraine’s path to EU membership is key to ending the war with Russia and suggested ‘part of Ukrainian territory will no longer be Ukrainian.’
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.
A German court hearing for five activists accused of damaging an Israeli defence firm site in Ulm was disrupted by protests and legal disputes. The case relates to a 2025 break-in causing about €1 million in damage.
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.
Germany has ordered €1 billion in infantry equipment from Rheinmetall, including protective gear and digital systems. The package aims to improve coordination and battlefield awareness for thousands of soldiers.
![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.
Germany has signed defence contracts worth €111 billion since 2022 under its military overhaul. The government increased spending after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, but faces criticism over transparency.
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.
Germany has released a new military strategy to counter Russia, focusing on rearmament and stronger forces. The plan highlights air defence, long-range weapons and new technologies to boost readiness.
