On April 26, 2024, MacDefense Philippines reported through its X account that the Philippine Army received three Chinese-made Norinco GQL-111 vehicle-launched bridges from China. These bridges were the first mobile bridges in service before the arrival of Israeli Merkava AVLBs and WFEL DSBs. This equipment was provided during the term of former President Duterte, according […]
Brazil; Army opts for Israeli ATMOS 155mm self-propelled howitzer
The Brazilian Army has officially chosen the ATMOS self-propelled howitzer system, developed by the Israeli company Elbit Systems, as the winner of its VBCOAP 155 SR competition, aimed at modernizing its artillery fleet with high-tech equipment. This announcement was first revealed by SA Defensa on their X account on April 29, 2024, highlighting the importance […]
Moldova; EU to supply VERA-NG passive ELINT systems to the Air Force
On April 25, 2024, under the European Peace Facility (EPF) initiative, a collaboration between the Czech company ERA and the Estonian Centre for Defence Investment (ECDI) was announced to provide Moldova with the VERA-NG passive surveillance systems. This effort is part of the EU’s broader strategy to improve Moldova’s defense capabilities, specifically targeting air defense […]
Vietnam; Army mulls acquisition of Korean K9 Self-Propelled Howitzer
In April 2023, a Vietnamese delegation visited the Hanwha Aerospace facilities in Hanoi to inspect the K9 howitzer, signaling Vietnam’s need for 108 units of this 155 mm self-propelled howitzer. On April 23, 2024, the Vietnamese Ministry of Defense intended to purchase the K9 self-propelled howitzer, developed and manufactured by Hanwha Aerospace of South Korea, […]
China; laser-powered submarine project
According to information published by 高天SEK on April 24, 204, China has reported a significant breakthrough in laser propulsion systems for submarines. Chinese scientists have achieved a groundbreaking advancement in submarine propulsion systems with the development of a laser-engineered, supersonic, and silent submarine. This cutting-edge technology utilizes a 2-megawatt laser energy system that can generate […]
Qatar; MoD mulls buy of French VBCI IFVs
Qatar is considering purchasing 120 VBCI armored vehicles from KNDS France to enhance its military capabilities. This potential order, reported by La Tribune on April 24, 2024, is part of Qatar’s plan to modernize its armored vehicle fleet, which may include dividing the order into three lots to equip six battalions. Beyond the VBCI from […]
Iraq; Air Force exhibits Chinese CH-5 attack drones
On April 24, 2024, the Iraqi Ministry of Defense commemorated the 93rd anniversary of the Air Force’s establishment with a ceremony attended by notable figures including the Prime Minister, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, and the Minister of Defense, among other senior leaders and officers. A significant highlight of the day was the first […]
Poland, Netherlands ; US Approves Sales AGM-88G AARGM-ER to arm F-35
The US State Department has approved the sale of advanced anti-radiation missiles to two NATO countries in Europe, the Netherlands and Poland, in deals potentially totaling nearly $2 billion. Announced by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on April 24, these foreign military sales mark a significant step in enhancing the defense capabilities of […]
Iran; Army unveils Heidar-7 upgrade of BTR-60PB 8×8 AFV
Iran continues to advance its defense capabilities by upgrading Soviet-era armored vehicles, showcasing one of its latest developments, the Heidar-7, during the military parade held on April 18, 2024, celebrating the Islamic Republic of Iran Army Day. The Heidar-7, a modernized version of the Soviet-made BTR-60PB, features significant enhancements including a new turret equipped with […]
UK; Government hikes defense budget
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said on Tuesday he would increase defence spending to 2.5% of GDP to reach 87 billion pounds ($108 billion) a year by 2030. The cost of the commitment would be an additional 4.5 billion pounds by 2028/29, taking defence spending from approximately 73.8 billion pounds to 78.2 billion pounds. This would […]