According to SigmaLive on December 3, 2024, the Cypriot National Guard received the first batch of Israeli Barak MX surface-to-air missile systems, with additional deliveries expected to enhance the nation's defense infrastructure. The procurement, initiated under the Anastasiades government in October 2021 and continued under the Christodoulidis administration, represents a significant investment aimed at upgrading Cyprus's air defense capabilities, which currently rely on Cold War-era systems. The decision to procure the Barak MX was influenced by its advanced capabilities, which include vertical launch systems, sophisticated radar integration, as well as compatibility with Cyprus' existing air defense systems. Negotiations for the acquisition began in October 2021 under the Anastasiades administration, initially exploring a variant of Israel’s Iron Dome system. However, the Barak MX was ultimately selected due to its broader operational range and compatibility with existing systems, such as the Russian-made Buk M1-2 and Tor-M1. Finalized under the Christodoulidis administration, the Barak MX deployment aligns with Cyprus's broader defense modernization plans, which include replacing Soviet-era Mi-35 helicopters with six Airbus H145M attack helicopters by the end of 2024. The Barak MX deployment reflects broader regional defense initiatives. Greece, which is upgrading its air defense systems, is considering the Barak MX as a potential replacement for aging HAWK and S-300PMU1 units. Discussions about joint procurement between Greece and Cyprus have highlighted opportunities for cost reductions and improved interoperability, although the countries currently pursue separate acquisition strategies. Greece’s plans include creating an integrated air defense network with Cyprus and Crete, a goal underscored by Greek Defense Minister Nikos Dendias during a recent parliamentary presentation.

EuroTrophy, a leading European provider of active protection systems (APS), has secured a landmark contract with the Defense Company KNDS Germany to deliver 123 Israeli-made Trophy APS units. These will be integrated into the German Army’s next-generation fleet of Leopard 2A8 Main Battle Tanks (MBTs). The contract, which was officially announced today, also includes the provision of initial spare parts packages and technical services to ensure the successful integration of the Trophy system into the Army’s existing technical, operational, and logistical infrastructure. This contract marks a significant step in the evolution of the Trophy APS (Active Protection System), as it becomes an integral component of the Leopard 2A8 MBT’s (Main Battle Tanks) standard configuration, further cementing its status as a key asset in modern armored warfare. The Trophy system, which has already seen combat success, provides real-time vehicle protection by intercepting incoming threats, such as anti-tank guided missiles and rocket-propelled grenades. The award to EuroTrophy is not only a crucial win for the company but also highlights the growing recognition of Trophy as the leading APS within Europe and NATO. This marks the second major contract award for EuroTrophy in the last 12 months, following the Norwegian Army’s selection of Trophy for its Leopard 2A8 fleet. The Norwegian decision underscored Trophy’s proven performance and operational readiness, further strengthening its position as the APS of choice for European armed forces.

Embraer and the Brazilian Air Force have agreed to deepen studies of a surveillance variant of the C-390 to focus on maritime patrol, the company said Dec. 3. The agreement builds on a joint study launched in April aimed at developing intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance studies of the turbofan-powered tanker/transport aircraft. The studies continue as the Brazilian Air Force faces a fleet replacement decision for the nine Lockheed P-3AM maritime patrol aircraft acquired in 2011. In 2022, officials from the Brazilian service announced they had met with Boeing to learn about the capabilities of the P-8A Poseidon as a replacement for the P-3AM. The Brazilian Air Force plans to buy 22 KC-390s to replace a fleet of Lockheed Martin C-130Hs, which completed a retirement process in March.

Military relations between Türkiye and the United Kingdom have advanced with Türkiye's acquisition of 12 Hercules C.4 aircraft from the Royal Air Force (RAF). Internationally known as C-130J-30 Super Hercules, these transport planes mark a significant upgrade for the Turkish Air Force, allowing the replacement of outdated Lockheed C-130B Hercules aircraft that have been in service for over six decades. The agreement benefits both nations, optimizing resources while enhancing respective capabilities. Retired from active RAF service 18 months ago, the Hercules C.4 aircraft had been in storage in England, with some fearing their potential scrapping. However, negotiations initiated in July 2024 concluded successfully on December 1, 2024. Türkiye, known for its discretion regarding military acquisitions, requested that the financial details of the transaction remain undisclosed. The C-130J-30 Super Hercules, developed by Lockheed Martin, features an extended fuselage, offering increased capacity for cargo and personnel. The aircraft can transport up to eight pallets, 128 equipped soldiers, or 92 paratroopers, demonstrating exceptional versatility. With a maximum payload of 20,227 kilograms, it reaches cruising speeds of 410 mph (Mach 0.58) at altitudes of up to 8,000 meters and offers a range of 4,425 kilometers with an operational load of 18,144 kilograms. Its advanced navigation radar and integrated defensive systems ensure operational efficiency and adaptability in challenging environments.

The US is enhancing Tunisia’s anti-tank capabilities with the approval of a $108-million foreign military sale for FGM-148F Javelin missiles. As announced by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the US State Department has authorized the transfer of 184 Javelin missiles and 30 lightweight command launch units to the North African country. The weapons are expected to bolster Tunisia’s long-term defense capacity, helping to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. They will also assist the Tunisian Army in addressing national defense needs amid ongoing terrorist threats in the country. In addition to missiles and launch units, Tunisia has requested spare parts, indoor and outdoor trainers, and maintenance and logistics support.

Over the past decade, there have been many discussions about the operational possibility of increasing the intelligence-gathering range of the Sa'ar 6 missile boats. In a dialogue between the Air Force, the Navy, the Planning Directorate, and the Ministry of Defense, several alternatives to the very old AS.365 "Bat" helicopter were examined, and finally, due to budget problems, it was decided, due to budget problems, to purchase old helicopters from surplus US Navy, renovate them in the United States, and implement systems made in Israel. The SH-60F Seahawk helicopter is supposed to increase the range and quality of the intelligence-gathering capabilities of the Sa'ar 6 ships, on which it can only land due to its weight and size relative to the helipad on board, and in addition to upgrading the fire capabilities of the naval forces. According to Air Force officers, the process of receiving the SH-60F Sea Hawk helicopters for the Navy has been delayed for about six months, despite the fact that there is a new construction team at the Palmahim base that is supposed to receive the helicopters. They also said that the renovation process has not yet been completed, because details have been found about the helicopters that required replacement of parts. After the helicopters arrive in Israel, the systems will undergo a process of assimilation. One of the officers said that the process would harm operational capabilities, "It would have been right to bridge the gap withVTOL aircraft that know how to take off and land from missile ships. Meanwhile, the veteran Bat squadron is scheduled to gradually close next year.  

Israeli company Ari Arms won an Israeli Ministry of Defense tender for the supply of tens of thousands of assault rifles to the IDF , under tender published for the first time in early 2024, companies such as Sami Katzav's IWI, Amtan Karmiel, Silver Shadow have competed and lost. The private company Ari Arms (formerly A.N. Amir Technologies Ltd.) has won a large tender from the Ministry of Defense for the supply of assault rifles, which are supposed to be used by IDF infantry troops. The order amount is estimated at more than NIS 100 million.

According to the Latvian Ministry of Defense on December 2, 2024, in an initiative aimed at strengthening national defense and boosting the local industry, the Latvian Armed Forces announced the advancement of their plan to purchase 30 new VR FOX 4×4 tactical vehicles, entirely manufactured in Latvia by the company VR CARS, under a contract whose amount has not been disclosed. This move is part of a comprehensive strategy to modernize military equipment while supporting the country’s technological and economic development. The VR FOX, designed to meet the demands of the varied terrains of the Baltic region, represents an important step for the Latvian army in terms of mobility and functionality. On November 26, the Latvian Ministry of Defense confirmed that the Council of Ministers approved the initial acquisition of 30 VR FOX vehicles. These vehicles, developed by VR Cars, a specialized Latvian company, are designed to operate effectively in complex environments such as dense forests, swamps, and wetlands. Influenced by lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine, the VR FOX incorporates innovative solutions in transmission and suspension, as well as a 2.0-liter diesel engine provided by Ford, ensuring robustness and an impressive range of 900 kilometers. The development of the 4×4 VR FOX tactical vehicle by the Latvian company VR Cars was strongly influenced by recent events in Ukraine, prompting Latvia to strengthen its national defense capabilities. The project began in early 2022, in response to lessons learned from the Ukrainian conflict, with the objective of designing a robust all-terrain vehicle suitable for varied environments such as dense forests and swamps. In 2023, the prototyping phase commenced, including rigorous testing that optimized the transmission and suspension and integrated a 2.0-liter diesel engine provided by Ford, ensuring a range of 900 kilometers. By summer 2024, the technical specifications and modular configurations of the VR FOX were finalized, including advanced systems such as optional rear steering and the central tire inflation system (CTIS). On November 26, 2024, the Latvian Ministry of Defense announced the approval of the initial acquisition of 30 VR FOX vehicles, marking the start of large-scale production planned for early 2025. At the Eurosatory 2024 exhibition, VR Cars publicly presented the VR FOX, highlighting its exceptional capabilities and compatibility with NATO standards.

According to information published by La Nacion on November 27, 2024, President Javier Milei and his French counterpart Emmanuel Macron have finalized an agreement for the acquisition of three Scorpène-class submarines and four offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) in a deal exceeding $2 billion. The centerpiece of the agreement is the acquisition of three Scorpène-class submarines from France's Naval Group. Valued at approximately $2 billion, the deal aims to restore Argentina's submarine capabilities, which have been severely diminished since the tragic loss of the ARA San Juan in 2017. Defense Minister Luis Petri emphasized that this agreement represents the initial stages of a long negotiation process, with contract finalization expected no earlier than mid-2025. Delivery timelines for the submarines are projected at five years post-contract, with payments commencing upon delivery. The defense agreements align with President Milei’s campaign promises to prioritize the modernization and revitalization of Argentina's armed forces after years of under investment.  

On November 6, 2024, the German company Avilus announced its collaboration with the Bundeswehr to test the Grille drone system. The trials, conducted in a simulated environment, focused on evaluating the system's capabilities to improve operational efficiency and adaptability in military contexts. The demonstration focused on improving communication, interoperability, and process automation, three essential elements for modernizing military operations. The tests highlighted Grille's potential to meet the demands of modern conflicts, particularly in scenarios involving electronic threats and complex terrain conditions. A logistics mission conducted with KNDS demonstrated the coordination between autonomous aerial and ground transport. The Grille drone transported cargo over several kilometers, including an intermediate reloading operation, while maintaining high performance levels. During the mission, the German Army’s electronic warfare unit EloKa tested the system’s resistance to electronic jamming, confirming its robustness in contested environments. Mission control was also showcased through the integration of Avilus' ground control segment (GCS) with the BOXER armored vehicle. This configuration allows remote mission supervision directly from the field, offering a mobile and secure platform for managing robotic and autonomous systems. This feature proved particularly valuable in high-risk operations, such as medical evacuation (RASEVAC), where remote coordination enhances both safety and efficiency. The development of the Grille drone by Avilus spanned several years and was based on collaboration among industry, academia, and the armed forces. The initiative began in 2020 when Ernst Rittinghaus, founder of Avilus, proposed the idea of a "flying stretcher" to doctoral students at the Institute of Flight System Dynamics at the Technical University of Munich. Within weeks, a preliminary technical concept was developed, quickly evolving into the drone evacuation system, named DRONEVAC.