Rheinmetall has secured a contract to supply up to 120 highly mobile rescue stations to the Bundeswehr, enhancing the German armed forces' medical capabilities. The order, valued at several tens of millions of euros, will officially be recorded in January 2025, with delivery of the first systems scheduled to begin in December 2025. The contract stipulates the initial supply of 16 systems, including both armored and unarmored versions, which will be delivered between 2025 and 2027. It also includes an option for an additional 104 systems, along with the training of Bundeswehr personnel to ensure the optimal use of these advanced medical units. These rescue stations are designed to provide essential surgical and emergency care in field conditions. The Bundeswehr’s medical service will deploy these mobile units to offer emergency internal and surgical care wherever needed. The stations can be quickly set up or dismantled, making them adaptable to various operational needs. Each system is equipped with key features such as air conditioning, a power generator, and an emergency surgery container fully equipped with the latest medical instruments. The rescue stations are part of the broader Modular Medical Facilities (MSE) system of the Bundeswehr, which aims to provide highly mobile and responsive medical support in dynamic operational environments. This system includes first aid posts, rescue centers, and operational hospitals used in the Bundeswehr’s operational areas. The individual systems take on specific tasks, such as providing various medical imaging capabilities, as in this case.

The Turkish Navy has begun constructing three domestically produced warships: a submarine named MILDEN, the aircraft carrier MUGEM, and a TF-2000 destroyer. A symbolic first weld of the submarine was conducted at the Gölcük Shipyard to commemorate the event. Meanwhile, the inaugural sheet metal cutting of the naval forces’ aircraft carrier and destroyer was conducted at Istanbul Shipyard. National Submarine The “Milli Denizaltı” (National Submarine) or MILDEN is over 80 meters long (262 feet) with a displacement of around 2,700 tons. It can operate underwater for extended periods, enhancing its ability to evade detection. The diesel-electric subsurface vessel will be armed with the high-speed and long-range AKYA heavyweight torpedo and the high-precision ATMACA anti-ship missile, both developed by Turkish missile manufacturer Roketsan.

Boeing Japan, a subsidiary of the American aerospace multinational Boeing, secured a contract on December 10, 2024, with Japan's Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) to conduct research and simulation testing on unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) designed to operate alongside manned aircraft. This initiative aligns with Japan's strategy to develop advanced technologies aimed at enhancing its military capabilities in autonomous systems and collaborative combat. Signed on October 18, 2024, for an amount of 155,177,000 JPY, approximately 1 million USD, this contract represents a significant step in Japan’s efforts to integrate UAVs into its military operations. ATLA explained that Boeing Japan was uniquely positioned to carry out this project due to its exclusive access to the required simulation software, along with the necessary technical resources and expertise. Japan's interest in combat UAVs is not a recent development. As early as December 2022, the Ministry of Defense (JMOD) announced plans to develop "combat support UAVs" capable of collaborating with manned aircraft. These efforts are also part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), a joint initiative between Japan, Italy, and the United Kingdom to develop a next-generation fighter aircraft. In December 2023, JMOD also signed an agreement with the U.S. Department of Defense to conduct research on artificial intelligence for UAVs to ensure seamless integration with Japan's future fighter jets.

Italian MoD signed a contract with Rheinmetall Italia to purchase four Skynex air defense systems in a Counter Rockets, Artillery, and Mortars (C-RAM) static configuration. General Carmine Masiello’s earlier visit to Rheinmetall Italia S.p.A. headquarters in Rome on December 17, 2024, confirmed the intention to equip Italian forces with these systems, aligning with details in the Multi-Year Programming Document 2024–2026. A complete Skynex system comprises four Revolver Gun Mk3 35mm cannons, each capable of firing 1,000 rounds per minute with a range of up to 4 kilometers. It utilizes programmable 35mm Ahead ammunition, which is resistant to electronic countermeasures, ensuring precise target engagement. Within this document, €400 million are forecasted for the overall requirement, with €80 million spread over four years currently financed by the defense budget. The plan includes the systems, their ten-year integrated logistics support, ammunition, trucks, communication and information systems, and infrastructure adaptations. The aim is to counter rockets, artillery, mortars, unmanned aircraft systems, and loitering munitions, thereby providing very short-range protection for personnel and critical infrastructure in Italy and for contingents deployed abroad. These four C-RAM systems fulfill commitments made to the Alliance and are described in the Defense Planning Document (DPP) as Skynex, a Rheinmetall-produced system that integrates separate airspace surveillance components and effectors, accommodates radar technologies from multiple manufacturers, and employs programmable 35 mm Ahead ammunition resistant to electronic countermeasures.

Colombia's Cotecmar shipyard has delivered eight new Low-Draft River Operation Boats (BOFBC) to Guatemala (formerly Low-Draft River Combat Boats-BCFBC), in development of the military-technical cooperation agreements signed between the two nations. The units will be transported to the Central American nation aboard the Logistics and Humanitarian Aid Ship BL-1601 Quetzal. The process, which strengthens binational relations in naval matters, includes, without official figures disclosed, the manufacture, delivery, training in the operation for the crews and in the maintenance for the personnel of the boats, as well as the training in the operational deployment of the boats. Armored l weapon configuration The BOFBC are boats made of aluminum hull with ballistic protection of the NIJ III type, with dimensions of 8.6 meters in length (length), 2.42 meters in beam (width), one meter of prop and a hull draft of 0.34 m. The units can travel at maximum speeds of 24 knots by two 90 hp Mercury Seapro engines, with a range of up to 300 km and load capacities of up to 400 kilograms. Cotecmar's boats have a crew of eight marines and their equipment includes a Furuno-1623 radar and Ritchie Supersport SS-1002 compass. BOFBCs have two different weapon configurations. The first is heavy-fired, with two 12.7x99mm Browning M-2HB QCB machine guns, one in the bow and one aft, and seven crew members. The second configuration includes a 12.7x99mm Browning M-2HB QCB machine gun at the bow, and two 5.56x45mm FN Herstal M-249, one port and one starboard, with a crew of eight.

Sweden's army will buy tanks from German-French defence equipment maker KNDS for 22 billion Swedish crowns ($1.97 billion), the Nordic country's government said on Thursday. The order includes 44 Leopard 2 A8 tanks and upgrades of 66 existing tanks, the government said in a statement. Tank deliveries will begin in 2028 and continue until 2031, according to the government statement.

Indonesia is reportedly exploring the acquisition of the Nora B-52 wheeled self-propelled howitzer, a modern artillery system developed by Serbia's Yugoimport. The move follows the recent signing of a military cooperation agreement between Indonesia and Serbia, which could pave the way to purchase several advanced defense technologies. The Nora B-52 is a 155mm Serbian wheeled self-propelled howitzer designed and manufactured by Yugoimport, offering long-range firepower, advanced targeting, and high mobility, with a firing range of up to 50 km. According to the Defense Studies Blog, the Indonesian military has shown interest in expanding its artillery capabilities with the Nora B-52, which is known for its advanced mobility, firepower, and versatility. This potential acquisition would complement Indonesia's ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces, enhancing the country's ability to defend its vast archipelago and maintain regional security.

The US government has authorized the potential sale of MK 54 MOD 0 lightweight torpedoes to Saudi Arabia under a $78.5-million deal. Saudi has requested 20 ready-to-launch lightweight torpedoes, including spare parts, MK 54 recoverable exercise torpedoes, and handling shapes and containers. The deal also comes with logistics and program support, involving up to two US government or RTX contractor representatives traveling to the Gulf nation. RTX’s MK 54 lightweight torpedoes will enhance the Gulf country’s defense against threats, particularly its anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, as they can “track, classify, and attack underwater targets.” Each torpedo measures 106.9 inches long (271 centimeters) and weighs 607 pounds (275 kilograms), carrying a 100-pound (45-kilogram) high-explosive warhead. It is the primary ASW weapon integrated into the US Navy’s surface ships, fixed-wing aircraft, and choppers.

Bangladesh, as part of its military modernization strategy, is reportedly in negotiations with Turkish defense manufacturer Otokar Otomotiv ve Savunma Sanayi A.S. to acquire 26 Tulpar light tanks. These developments were highlighted during a press briefing by India’s Ministry of External Affairs and reported on X by Defres360 on January 3, 2025. This initiative represents a significant step toward strengthening the armored capabilities of the Bangladeshi military, addressing operational needs in a sensitive regional geopolitical context. The first deliveries are expected in 2025, reflecting Bangladesh’s intent to diversify its strategic defense partnerships. Türkiye, with its growing presence in global defense exports, has established itself as a key player, particularly in South Asia. Its strengthened relations with countries such as Pakistan—through the sale of MILGEM corvettes, drones, and support for submarine modernization—have drawn varied reactions, particularly from India. Bangladesh’s potential acquisition of the Tulpar was discussed during a press briefing by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. Responding to related queries, the ministry’s spokesperson, Randhir Jaiswal, reaffirmed India’s commitment to fostering constructive relationships based on mutual trust and sensitivity to regional dynamics while monitoring developments in its neighborhood. The Tulpar is a modular tracked armored vehicle designed to meet both current and future operational requirements. Its modular design allows for multiple configurations, including a light tank, infantry fighting vehicle, troop carrier, reconnaissance vehicle, command and control vehicle, air defense vehicle, ambulance, and mortar carrier. With a gross vehicle weight ranging from 28,000 to 45,000 kg, it is powered by a turbocharged diesel engine producing between 700 and 1,100 horsepower, paired with an automatic transmission. Its robust torsion bar suspension and automatic track tensioning system ensure exceptional mobility across diverse terrains. The Tulpar also features an advanced electronic infrastructure, ARMAtronics, which facilitates the integration of mission-specific systems and real-time subsystem monitoring.

Serbia has finalized the procurement of Israeli-made PULS artillery rocket systems and Hermes 900 reconnaissance drones to strengthen its position in the regional arms race with rival Croatia. The deal, valued at $335 million, was initially announced by Elbit Systems in November 2024, but the company did not specify which European country was the buyer. Local media outlets recently confirmed that Belgrade would be the destination for the advanced defense systems, citing remarks from Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. “I’d like to inform you that following persistent negotiations, we’ve signed a deal to buy the most powerful artillery systems in the world. We’ve also bought some of the most sophisticated drones in the world,” he stated, as quoted by Haaretz. The artillery systems and drones are expected to be delivered by mid-2028. The PULS, or Precise and Universal Launching System, is an autonomous artillery rocket system capable of accurately launching advanced rockets over distances of up to 300 kilometers (186 miles). Its design eliminates the need for special modifications, enabling it to execute firing missions within one minute of initiation. Meanwhile, the Hermes 900 drones feature high-performance sensors for precise detection of both ground and maritime targets, even in challenging weather conditions. With a payload capacity of up to 350 kilograms (772 pounds), these drones support a wide range of missions, including intelligence, surveillance, maritime patrol, ground support, and communications relay.