Naval

The global rise of modular vertical launch systems at sea

Navies worldwide are accelerating their transition toward modular vertical launching systems (VLS), universal launch cells designed to fire multiple types of missiles from a single platform. From air-defense interceptors to land-attack cruise missiles and anti-ship weapons, these systems are redefining not only naval lethality but also integration costs and fleet versatility. The U.S. Mk 41, […]

Air

Spain’s next fighter: continuity or bet?

Spain’s Air and Space Force is entering a decisive phase. Its aging F/A-18 Hornets are nearing retirement just as the Spanish–German–French Future Combat Air System (FCAS) will not enter service before 2040. Balancing industrial continuity, operational requirements, and geopolitical choices, Madrid faces a critical question: which fighter will guarantee Spanish air superiority over the next […]

Picture of Bayraktar Akıncı Air Land Naval

The global rise of Turkey’s defense industry: breakthroughs, risks, and ambitions into 2025

Turkey’s defense industry is hitting export records in 2025, powered by drones, the KAAN fighter program, and broader diversification across Europe and Asia. Bayraktar drones, the KAAN fighter, armored vehicles in Europe, and rising exports: Turkey is establishing itself as a major defense actor, despite persistent technological and geopolitical challenges. A confirmed upward trajectory Turkey’s […]

AI image of Indonesia Scorpène Evolved submarine Naval

Indonesia strengthens naval sovereignty

Two flagship programs, the Scorpène Evolved submarines and the locally built Arrowhead 140-derived Merah Putih frigates are reshaping Indonesia’s defense industry and maritime posture. Background Between 2024 and 2025, Indonesia formalized the construction of two Scorpène Evolved submarines and two Merah Putih frigates. Both classes are being built locally, marking a shift toward greater deterrence […]

Picture of member of the Russian private military company Wagner Group Land

Private Military Companies (PMCs): key players in modern warfare

Private military companies (PMCs) are playing an increasingly prominent role in contemporary conflicts, offering services ranging from logistics to direct combat participation. Their historical evolution, current characteristics, and impact on global security raise crucial questions about the What is a Private Military Company? What is a Private Military Company? Private military companies (PMCs) are businesses […]

Naval

Europe vs the “Shadow Fleet”: the technical arsenal tightening the net

Confronted with aging, opaque tankers in the shadow fleet, Europe is no longer relying solely on blacklists and port bans. It is deploying a web of sensors (SAR and RF satellites, coastal radars, VTS, “sniffer” RPAS), tying them into fusion centers (EMSA/IMS, SafeSeaNet, THETIS), and projecting air and naval assets to turn suspected sanctions-evasion into […]

Illustration of Lockheed’s Skunk Works Vectis Air Naval

From wingmen to underwater ghosts: the new era of defense drones

Defense companies worldwide are unveiling a new generation of drones, airborne loyal wingmen and naval autonomous systems, set to reshape combat. Programs from Lockheed Martin, Dassault, Boeing, and others highlight a shift toward affordability, survivability, and autonomy. A new wave of air combat drones In September 2025, Lockheed Martin’s Skunk Works introduced the Vectis, a […]

Air

F-35A: the strategic renewal of the Belgian Air Component

After more than four decades of service, the Belgian Air Component’s F-16s are being replaced by the F-35A Lightning II. Selected in 2018 and due for delivery in 2025, the aircraft represents much more than a simple fleet renewal. This acquisition is a commitment to the country’s operational, industrial, and strategic future. From political decision […]