Belgium
DIGITALEUROPE, the continent’s largest digital industry association, has named seven finalist companies for the 2026 Future Unicorn Awards across Future Unicorn and Dual-Use Technology categories. The winners will be revealed at the Masters of Digital 2026 conference in Brussels on 25-26 February.
Analysis
Russian influence in the Western Balkans has not disappeared but has been significantly weakened by the war in Ukraine, according to military analyst Berko Zečević. He argues that small states should pursue restrained and pragmatic policies amid growing global instability.
EU
The European Union is working to develop a dedicated defense data-sharing platform, designed to allow its armed forces and defense institutions to exchange sensitive information securely without relying on U.S. infrastructure or commercial providers.
Greece
Paramount Greece and Ukrainian defence firm MAC HUB have formalised a strategic industrial cooperation to jointly develop and produce next-generation land platforms, culminating in the unveiling of a new mine-protected armoured vehicle made in Ukraine.
Ukraine
A Ukrainian defence tech firm has received state approval to manufacture Octopus interceptor drones designed to defeat enemy strike UAVs. Production licensing marks a step toward scaling the system for frontline use and could support both domestic and allied air-defence needs.
Albania
Albania is increasing defense investment with a focus on military personnel, infrastructure, and modernization. The government plans a significant rise in armed forces salaries alongside long-term capability development aligned with NATO requirements.
Estonia
Estonia is readying a new military assistance package for Ukraine that prioritizes unmanned systems and counter-drone capabilities. The move follows recent high-intensity Russian strikes and reflects expanding bilateral defence cooperation, including plans for joint weapons production.
Belgium
The Czech industrial and technology group CSG has opened a permanent office in Brussels, marking a first for a defense company originating from the Czech and Slovak Republics. The new representation is intended to strengthen the group’s engagement with EU institutions and industry bodies.
Czech Republic
A European joint venture will link Czech-based Czechoslovak Group and Turkey’s ASELSAN to industrialise and market the Korkut close-range air defence system on a Tatra 6×6 vehicle. Production and further development are set to take place in Czech and Slovak facilities under the new partnership.
Events
Riyadh is set to host a major international defense exhibition with strong early participation, while a new $400 million real estate venture highlights foreign investor confidence in the Kingdom’s reforms.
Germany
The TRML-4D radar, a cornerstone of the continent's integrated air defence, can track 1,500 targets like drones and cruise missiles from 250 kilometres away, merging advanced hardware with game-changing software.
Poland
Poland has begun implementing its first defence project financed through the EU’s SAFE programme, launching the SAN integrated anti-drone system.
