EU Strategic Interdependence with Southeast Europe Gains Focus as Brussels Eyes Regional Resources and Security Integration

Brussels and capitals in Southeast Europe are increasingly aligning on the strategic value of the region’s natural resources, infrastructure, and industrial base, framing them as key to European autonomy in defence and energy sectors.

Baltic States Agree to Form Joint Military Mobility Area to Accelerate Allied Maneuverability

Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania have signed a declaration to create a Baltic Military Mobility Area aimed at removing peacetime barriers to moving forces and equipment across their territories.

ESM Crisis Fund Could Be Adapted to Support Eurozone Defense Spending

The European Stability Mechanism is considering whether its €500 billion crisis lending capacity could be adapted to support defense spending by eurozone states. The proposal would aim to ease fiscal pressure on governments facing rising military expenditure.

EU Council Tightens Conditions for Ukraine Arms Purchases Using EU Funds

EU member states have revised the rules governing how Ukraine can use EU-backed funds to procure military equipment. The updated criteria narrow eligibility and introduce clearer prioritization for certain capability areas.

Czechoslovak Group and Hellenic Defence Systems Sign Foundational Agreements for Ammunition Joint Venture in Lavrio

Czechoslovak Group and Greece’s state-owned Hellenic Defence Systems have formalized key documentation to establish a joint ammunition production company at the Lavrio facility, marking a significant step in revitalizing domestic ordnance manufacturing

Steyr Arms Secures U.S. Distribution Order Following Precision Rifle Debut

Austrian manufacturer Steyr Arms has secured a significant U.S. commercial order linked to the debut of a new precision rifle platform. The agreement was concluded during the SHOT Show in Las Vegas and centers on exclusive distribution in the U.S. civilian market.

Indian Precision Forging Firm Balu Forge Joins NATO Defence Supply Chain

Mumbai-based Balu Forge Industries has been formally inducted into the NATO supply chain as a certified supplier of high-precision defence components. The inclusion enables the company to manufacture and deliver artillery shell bodies and other forged parts for alliance member nations.

Turkish Otokar to Acquire Romanian Vehicle Maker Automecanica, Consolidating Local Armoured Vehicle Production

Turkish armoured vehicle producer Otokar has agreed to buy a controlling stake in Romania’s Automecanica, a key partner in its Cobra II 4×4 vehicle programme. The acquisition aims to integrate local production and streamline execution of a major Romanian defence contract.

Excalibur Army Accelerator Debuts with International Tech Leaders Ahead of February Innovation Showcase

The first Excalibur Army Accelerator will bring defence technology innovators and industry experts together in February to advance prototype solutions toward field deployment. Speakers from across Europe and the United States are confirmed to lead thematic sessions and workshops.

Serbia Reviews Cooperation With CSG-Owned 14. oktobar

Serbia’s defense minister has met with representatives of the Kruševac-based defense manufacturer 14. oktobar, which is owned by the Czech industrial group CSG. Talks focused on production activities, industrial capacity, and cooperation with the Serbian defense system.

Kenya and Czech Republic Formalize Defense Cooperation Framework

Kenya and the Czech Republic have signed a bilateral defense cooperation agreement aimed at expanding military collaboration, training, and industrial engagement. The framework reflects Nairobi’s continued effort to diversify defense partnerships beyond traditional suppliers.

EU Loan Rules for Ukraine Trigger Debate Over Defence Procurement

EU member states are divided over eligibility criteria tied to a planned €90 billion loan for Ukraine’s defence purchases, exposing tensions between protecting European defence industry interests and Ukraine’s battlefield procurement needs.