ESG and IAI combine again

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• Rheinmetall reports “boom” as results hit new records with orders for vehicles, ammunition and weapons

  Rheinmetall is riding high as Europe scrambles to boost its defence forces and replenish spent stockpiles sent to Ukraine.

• Leonardo projects €30 billion in revenue by 2029

  The forecast came as the Italian firm presented its new 2025–29 industrial plan to analysts, with its future figures bolstered by the European increase in defence spending.

• UK Parliament told that Europe needs to do more within NATO and undertake reforms

  Speaking before a committee on European affairs, the speakers addressed recent developments following an eventful few days. During this period, the UK pushed for increased support for Ukraine, while the EU eased budget constraints to allow for greater defence spending. Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, US President Donald Trump introduced tariffs that could impact the defence industry.

• What does the US decision to pause Ukraine support mean for the war and the stock markets?

  NATO and other Western countries had been singing from the same song sheet since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by Russia three years ago but the alliance has been weakened as the new US administration under President Donald Trump pauses military aid to Ukraine.

• Ireland begins work on buying fighter jets and doubling the naval fleet

  Since the release of Ireland’s Commission on the Defence Forces (CoDF) report two years ago there have been whisperings about the potential of Ireland buying fighter jets, one of the most ambitious recommendations. The prospect has now inched closer.

• UK defence budget increased to 2.5% by 2027 as geopolitical landscape darkens

  UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer raises defence spending, while both NATO and President Trump demand significant further increases.