Czech Republic
Ray Service Launches Largest Investment Program in Czechia
Ray Service is expanding production, R&D and testing capacity as the Czech supplier prepares for F-35, Leopard 2A8 and other defense programs.
F-35 Fever: Why 13 European Air Forces Bought the Same Jet
Thirteen European air forces have ordered the F-35, from Poland to a Portuguese withdrawal. A look at why the stealth fighter became NATO's default choice, and why Europe's own sixth-generation alternative just collapsed.
Russia Sabotage Theory Raised After Bulgaria EMCO Explosions
A former EMCO technical director has raised possible Russian sabotage after explosions at a Bulgarian ammunition plant, while investigators say all causes remain open.
Bulgarian Navy Recovers Drone Debris Along Black Sea Coast
Bulgarian Navy teams recovered a reconnaissance drone, drone debris and a rocket motor in three incidents along the Black Sea coast.
Europe’s Private Security Market Shifts to High-Risk Protection
Europe’s private security market is moving toward executive protection, critical infrastructure security and technology as threats and competition intensify.
Slovakia Eyes L-39 Skyfox for F-16 Training, Drone Defense
Slovakia is considering Czech L-39 Skyfox jets to replace aging trainers, support F-16 pilot training and potentially intercept slow-moving drones.
CEE & SEE Defense Weekly Briefing: August 9–15, 2026
This week: an ammunition plant explosion near Rome, Poland launches its first Miecznik frigate, a stray drone exposes Bulgaria's air defense gaps, and Serbia sets a September date for its Israeli drone factory.
Bulgaria to Receive Four Anti-Drone Systems by August 21
Bulgaria expects four anti-drone systems by August 21 after a Ukrainian drone crossed its airspace and exploded inside Bulgarian territory.
Tony Blair’s Son Seeks $200M for UK Defense Startup Pyra
London defense startup Pyra is reportedly seeking about $200 million to develop technology integrating multiple defense systems into a unified platform.
Undersea Cable Sabotage: Why the Seabed Is the New Front Line
From the Baltic Sea to the Taiwan Strait, ships keep dragging anchors across the cables carrying 99 percent of the world's data. Here is how the sabotage playbook works, and why almost nobody gets caught.
Ukraine’s DEMZ to Build Ammunition Plant in Lithuania
Ukraine’s DEMZ plans to invest in ammunition production in Lithuania, adding another Ukrainian manufacturer to the Baltic state’s expanding defense industry.
Germany Tests New G2G Defense Export Model with Montenegro
Germany is testing its first government-to-government defense sales model with Montenegro, using four H145M helicopters as a potential blueprint for wider European procurement.
KNDS Ammo Italy Plant Hit by Explosion Near Rome
A fire and explosion hit the KNDS Ammo Italy ammunition plant in Colleferro near Rome on August 13. Authorities reported no injuries.