Defence Notes
Bulgarian procurement ambitions blend old plans with new projects
5th April 2022
Undaunted by previous problems in attempting to acquire F-16s and IFVs, Bulgaria has unveiled an ambitious new set of procurement priorities.
Latest news
Training
Sales opportunities for advanced trainer jets open up in Eastern Europe
Following the Polish Air Force acquisition of 48 KAI FA-50 jets, other countries including Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia and Slovakia could also opt for a single-type solution for advanced trainer/light attack requirements.
Air Warfare
Bulgaria looks beyond MiG-29 retirement
The Bulgarian MoD is examining various options to retain a crucial NATO Air Policing capability for the foreseeable future, including second-hand leasing as an interim solution before the introduction of recently ordered F-16V Block 70 aircraft.
Land Warfare
Bulgarian T-72M upgrade makes headway
While much attention from the defence industry has focused on the Eurosatory 2022 exhibition in Paris, the smaller Hemus event in Bulgaria delivered its share of news earlier this month.
Land Warfare
IAG unveils vastly improved Rila 8x8
A new-look Rila armoured vehicle will be offered for the Bulgarian 8x8 IFV procurement programme, says manufacturer International Armored Group.
Defence Notes
Russia flexes surge capability muscles (Analysis)
20th January 2022
The recent ten-day deployment of ‘peacekeeping’ troops to Kazakhstan reflects recent and ongoing efforts to enhance Russian airborne capabilities — should Ukraine be worried?
Air Warfare
Serbia looks west and east to strengthen air force
23rd November 2021
A plan by Serbia to procure C295M airlifters takes shape amid moves to procure more helicopters from Russia.
Naval Warfare
Russian Pacific Fleet welcomes third Project 636.3 submarine
29th October 2021
The Improved Kilo-II class submarine Magadan has been commissioned into the Russian Pacific Fleet.
Defence Notes
Greek procurement surge shows no sign of abating
26th October 2021
More fighter aircraft and naval vessels are in the offing for Greece as part of its 2020-2025 procurement programme – but the latter is a more complex issue than the former.
Land Warfare
Next steps unclear for new Serbian IFV
23rd October 2021
Who will be the launch customer for the Lazanski 8x8 vehicle?
Defence Notes
New equipment breaks cover at Turkmen military parade
12th October 2021
Anniversary parade and flypast provides new sightings of UAS, armoured vehicles and fixed-wing manned aircraft from diverse sources as Ashgabat forges ahead with plans to replace Soviet-era equipment.
Naval Warfare
Russia to order ten more Project 12700 MCMVs
7th October 2021
The latest intent to order doubles the procurement to 20 ships. Project 12700 MCMVs could ultimately replace 30 to 50 Soviet-era minesweepers in the Russian Navy.
Naval Warfare
Russia confirms timeline for final Buyan-M corvette deliveries
4th October 2021
The Russian Navy plans to take two additional small missile corvettes of the Buyan-M class to meet immediate operational needs.
Land Warfare
Waiting game about to end for T-14 while T-90M deliveries continue
1st September 2021
After years of delays and technical problems, the Russian Ground Forces are finally set to receive the first batch of T-14 Armata MBTs.
Naval Warfare
Problem-plagued Kuznetsov saga continues
9th July 2021
Despite bullish pronouncements from government and navy officials, a glance at recent history indicates that further delays are likely in the upgrade and overhaul of the Russian Navy flagship.
Land Warfare
JLTV experiences mixed fortunes in new NATO countries
22nd June 2021
Slovenian procurement of 4x4 light tactical vehicles proceeds smoothly, in contrast with plans elsewhere in central and eastern Europe.
