SPAIN
Indra’s planned multipurpose drone factory in León is expected to play a growing role in the production and integration of loitering munitions. The project comes as European armed forces prioritize scalable drone-based strike capabilities.
European Union
The European Union is preparing a new defense financing mechanism intended to replace the Security Action for Europe program. The successor scheme is expected to build on SAFE’s joint procurement model while adjusting eligibility and financing conditions.
WDS 2026
MASNA Ventures, a newly established defense-focused venture capital firm, is seeking to raise $100 million for its inaugural fund centered on defense and security technologies. The vehicle aims to back U.S. and allied companies while supporting industrial expansion into Saudi Arabia.
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Tehnički remont Bratunac says it is preparing additional deliveries of its Vihor armored vehicle to the United Arab Emirates in 2026 as discussions continue on a much larger package. The company’s majority owner indicated the talks cover a potential requirement of up to 500 vehicles.
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.
