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.
Germany’s reservists’ chief has proposed raising the age limit to 70 to address recruitment gaps. The plan comes as Berlin reviews military readiness and aims to expand its armed forces and reserve strength by 2035.
Germany’s military made over 2,000 school visits in early 2026 as part of a recruitment drive. The outreach follows new service measures and NATO targets, but critics warn it may increase the military’s influence in schools.
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.
Germany approved €6.6 million in arms exports to Israel during the early weeks of the Iran conflict, government data shows. The figure is lower than post-Gaza war approvals, reflecting ongoing limits on military supplies.
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.
Finland has proposed expanding civilian intelligence powers to address state-sponsored and cyber threats. The draft law includes new network exploitation measures, broader surveillance authorities, and longer document secrecy periods, and is open for consultation until late May.
Norway and Ukraine have agreed to expand defence cooperation with a focus on drone production, including enabling Ukrainian drones to be built in Norway. The deal also covers joint development, technology sharing, and scaling up air defence and military production.
Sweden will conduct Aurora 26, its largest military exercise of the year, from 27 April to 13 May. The drills will involve over 16,000 personnel and allied forces, focusing on reinforcement operations, coordination, and defence planning under NATO frameworks.
Germany and Ukraine have signed new defence deals covering missiles, drones and air defence. Berlin also backed Kyiv’s EU bid and called for the release of EU funds to strengthen Ukraine’s long-term security.
The UK has disclosed details of a Russian submarine operation near critical undersea infrastructure, with British and allied forces tracking vessels in the High North and surrounding waters amid increased Russian naval activity.
HENSOLDT UK has signed contracts with SRT Marine System Solutions to supply 50 coastal surveillance radar systems for national monitoring networks. The systems will be delivered in 2026 to support maritime tracking and coastal surveillance operations.
Finland has signed a €546.8 million deal with South Korea’s KOTRA to acquire 112 surplus K9 self-propelled howitzers, including support equipment. The systems will replace older artillery and support the Finnish Army’s ongoing modernization programme.
