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Qatar signs $200 billion aircraft deal with Boeing during Trump visit

As part of his Middle East tour, U.S. President Donald Trump visited Qatar and announced a landmark deal between Qatar Airways and American aerospace manufacturer Boeing. The agreement, reportedly valued at $200 billion, covers the purchase of 160 aircraft, marking what Trump described as “the largest deal in Boeing’s history.”

Following a bilateral meeting in Doha between President Trump and Qatar’s Emir Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, the two leaders oversaw the signing of several cooperation agreements spanning defense, aviation, and other sectors.

In remarks delivered after the signing ceremony, Emir Al Thani stated: “President Trump and I had a fruitful two-hour discussion. We covered bilateral relations and various regional issues. The agreements we signed today mark a new phase in Qatar–U.S. relations. I sincerely thank President Trump for this historic visit.”

President Trump echoed the Emir’s sentiments, noting that their discussions touched on topics ranging from Russia and Ukraine to broader global affairs. “We also talked about the very interesting situation in Iran. I believe things will turn out well—somehow they must. You’ve been a tremendous help,” Trump said, addressing the Emir.

Highlighting the commercial aircraft deal, Trump emphasized its scale and strategic significance. “Qatar has signed an agreement to purchase 160 aircraft from Boeing, valued at $200 billion. This is the largest deal in Boeing’s history.”

Trump also announced that U.S. fighter jets would perform an aerial demonstration the following day and thanked the Qatari Emir for his hospitality and friendship.

Glock’s 9mm lineup gets a tactical boost with Aimpoint COA Sight

The COA red dot sight by Aimpoint, developed in collaboration with Glock, is featured in an interview with defensehere.com. The sight is mounted directly onto select Glock pistols using the new A-CUT mounting system, which is designed to improve stability and lower the sight placement.

Speaking to defensehere.com, Ola Nordström, Area Sales Director at Aimpoint, explained that the A-CUT allows the sight to sit deeper in the slide, making it easier to align the red dot with the factory iron sights. This feature helps users especially those unfamiliar with red dot optics find the aiming point quickly and naturally.

The optic is available as part of a combined package with several Glock models, including the G43X, G48, G19 Gen5, G45, and G47. It is not sold separately and comes factory-installed. Weighing only 48 grams, the COA sight is waterproof up to 25 meters and has been tested to withstand 40,000 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

For more details, you can watch the full interview:

AV to upgrade Dutch Puma drone fleet

AeroVironment (AV) has signed a new contract with the Dutch Ministry of Defence (MoD) to modernize its Puma™ 3 AE uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) fleet. The agreement includes upgrades aimed at improving survivability, communications, and operational flexibility—even in GPS-denied or contested environments.

The contract also introduces Puma LE systems, expanding the Netherlands’ UAS portfolio with longer-range, scalable ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, Reconnaissance) capabilities for both military and civilian missions.

The Puma 3 AE upgrade will feature autonomous operational capacity, enhanced situational awareness tools, and an option for vertical take-off and landing (VTOL). Delivery of the systems is underway and targeted for use at the squad and platoon levels.

The Puma systems—currently in use in Ukraine and other high-threat zones—are known for their adaptability and field performance. The Netherlands is now among NATO countries working to scale UAS deployments across tactical formations.

“Our expanded partnership with the Dutch MoD underscores the rising demand for adaptable, mission-ready uncrewed systems across NATO,” said Trace Stevenson, AV’s president of Autonomous Systems. “AV’s battle-proven Puma platforms are built to deliver real-time intelligence and unmatched battlefield agility—so our partners can make faster, smarter decisions in the world’s most contested environments.”

Puma drones can be launched by a single soldier or deployed from Fennek reconnaissance vehicles, supporting agile ISR in expeditionary scenarios. The program is part of a broader Dutch effort to modernize and expand uncrewed capabilities across its defense structure.

Rutte: Türkiye plays a vital role in the alliance’s future

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed confidence in the upcoming NATO Summit in The Hague, saying it would be a turning point for the Alliance and a demonstration of its collective strength. Speaking to Anadolu Agency (AA) in Antalya, Rutte emphasized Türkiye’s critical role in shaping NATO’s defense posture and its contributions to the alliance’s strategic readiness.

“I am confident that the NATO Summit in The Hague will be a leap forward and a major success,” Rutte said. “It will show, with the support of Türkiye and President Erdoğan, that NATO is united, ready to defend itself, and committed to collective security worldwide.”

Rutte was in Antalya to attend the informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers. During his remarks, he underscored the importance of Türkiye’s growing defense industry, stating that it is essential for NATO’s operational capabilities. He pointed out that while Russia, with only a fraction of NATO’s economic strength, has managed to accelerate its defense production, NATO must also ramp up its industrial output.

“We need Türkiye’s defense industry,” Rutte stated. “We hope to see its production grow even further. That’s good for the Turkish economy, and it’s good for NATO.”

Rutte noted that other key defense manufacturers within NATO — including Rheinmetall in Germany, Leonardo in Italy, and Lockheed Martin in the United States — must also expand their production capacity. He highlighted Türkiye as a model for other member states.

Addressing NATO’s call for increased defense spending, Rutte refrained from citing specific figures but stressed the importance of ongoing discussions within the Alliance. “We continue to encourage all member states to raise their defense budgets,” he said. “The Russian threat remains long-term, and we’re also watching China’s rapid military development with concern.”

On infrastructure and readiness, Rutte added: “We must ensure that our railroads and highways — the ones we use for our nice cars — can also carry our tanks when necessary.”

“The Summit Will Be a Success”

Looking ahead to the June 24–26 summit in The Hague, Rutte said that discussions will continue in the coming weeks, particularly regarding budget allocations for space and other emerging domains. “My impression is that all allies acknowledge the current reality,” he said. “I’m confident that the summit will be a breakthrough, signaling NATO’s strength and determination, again with Türkiye’s support.”

He remained optimistic about rising defense budgets across member states, although he declined to confirm any agreed targets.

When asked about reports suggesting European countries are preparing their citizens for 72-hour emergencies, Rutte described such discussions as a reflection of a changed global environment. “After the fall of the Berlin Wall, many believed we had entered a more peaceful world, leading to reduced defense spending,” he said. “That assumption was incorrect. Russia remains a threat, China is advancing its military, and terrorism still exists. Citizens need to be more aware and resilient in the event of crises.”

He dismissed accusations of fearmongering. “I don’t see it as warmongering. It’s a realistic approach to a threat that clearly exists. And the Russians know any attack would provoke a devastating response,” Rutte stated. “It’s simply responsible to recognize the era we’re in.”

“We Never Promised Ukraine NATO Membership”

Commenting on NATO’s expansion and future membership, Rutte reiterated that countries such as Ukraine have the right to express their intent to join. However, any decision on membership lies with all 32 current NATO members, including Türkiye.

Reflecting on past discussions, he said, “At the Washington Summit, we reiterated that Ukraine’s path to NATO is irreversible. But we never made a formal promise to Ukraine — or anyone else — as part of any peace agreement that they would become a member. That simply didn’t happen.”

Rutte emphasized the need to separate Ukraine’s NATO aspirations from efforts to secure a lasting peace. “These are two different tracks,” he said. “If other countries in Europe seek NATO membership in the future, it will be up to Türkiye and the rest of the alliance to decide.”

Indra and SAES sign defense cooperation deal

Indra and SAES have signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on infrastructure protection, acoustic systems, and simulation. The agreement was formalized during the FEINDEF international defense exhibition in Madrid.

The signing ceremony took place at Indra’s stand, with participation from Ángel Escribano, Indra Group Executive Chairman; Javier Mármol, President of SAES; and César Solano, General Manager of SAES.

Escribano stated that “Indra is committed to fostering collaboration and the collective work of Spanish industry to develop cutting-edge solutions, ensure the sovereignty and strategic autonomy of our Armed Forces and allies and enable them to compete at the highest level around the world.”

Mármol added that “SAES is a company that’s highly specialized in underwater acoustics and multi-influence, supplying advanced systems to the Navy and advocating collaboration as the key to open and more seamless and efficient innovation.”

The partnership comes as the demand grows for securing maritime communication and energy infrastructure, ensuring port security, and maintaining free access to shipping lanes. It also aligns with the Spanish Navy’s Vision 2050, which includes maintaining a technologically advanced fleet amid increasing global complexity.

Indra is currently contributing to European R&D programs such as SMAUG (Smart Maritime and Underwater Guardian), which integrates acoustic sensors, drones, and intelligent algorithms to reinforce port protection. The company has equipped modern Spanish Navy vessels with electronic warfare, radar, and communication systems also used by advanced navies worldwide. These systems are now being integrated into Indra’s IndraMind platform, aimed at future digital and collaborative combat environments.

Thales launches TRAC SIGMA radar

Thales has introduced the TRAC SIGMA, a new multi-mission Primary Surveillance Radar (PSR) designed for simultaneous approach and long-range air surveillance. The radar supports both civil and military air traffic control operations, addressing challenges in increasingly congested airspace.

Operating in the L-Band, TRAC SIGMA is capable of detecting and discriminating small aircraft at distances of up to 300 kilometers. This performance enables the enforcement of the three-nautical-mile (3NM) minimum separation across all phases of flight, not just during final approach, in line with ICAO recommendations.

The system builds on technologies developed within the TRAC radar family and includes enhanced jamming resistance, higher availability, extended coverage, and full 3D air picture capability. These features support better coordination between civil and military air traffic controllers.

“With over 50 years’ experience in this field, Thales is continuously investing to lead the latest innovations in the Air Traffic Control radar market, helping ensure safer skies. TRAC SIGMA offers a single sensor for simultaneous approach and long-range surveillance supporting all air traffic control missions, and enables ATCOs to meet the challenges related to optimizing an increasingly congested airspace,” said Eric HUBER, Vice President Surface Radars, Thales.

TRAC SIGMA’s design includes 3D detection for aircraft at high or low altitudes and at extended ranges. It also features high availability with redundant components, resistance to interference and jamming, and compliance with international regulations. As a “2-in-1” radar, it also contributes to lifecycle cost savings through optimized infrastructure and resources.

Thales currently has over 1,200 air traffic control radars installed in more than 100 countries and continues to expand its offerings with next-generation solutions like TRAC SIGMA.

IDV to deliver 785 logistic trucks to Dutch Armed Forces

Italy based IVECO DEFENCE VEHICLES has secured a contract from the Dutch Ministry of Defence for the delivery and long-term support of 785 military logistic trucks. The agreement was finalized through the Materiel and IT Command (COMMIT), and deliveries are scheduled to take place between 2027 and 2029.

The contract covers 8×8 and 6×4 truck variants across three configurations: semitrailer tractor, recovery, and hook-lift. The vehicles will be available with either protected or unprotected cabs, and are designed to ensure compatibility with existing European military logistics platforms. The deal also includes integrated logistic support for at least 15 years, along with an option for an additional 785 vehicles.

This development builds on previous cooperation between IDV and the Dutch Ministry of Defence, including the earlier 12kN Manticore program under which 1,283 multirole tactical vehicles were ordered. The new trucks are expected to further standardize and modernize the logistical capabilities of the Dutch Armed Forces.

IDV CEO Claudio Catalano noted that the contract reinforces the company’s involvement in providing mobility and support platforms to European defense customers.

Patria and ACC to develop military drone for NATO

Patria and Sweden-based ACC Innovation have signed a cooperation agreement to develop a military variant of the Thunder Wasp GT quadcopter drone for a NATO member country. The announcement marks the beginning of a new collaboration phase focused on adapting the drone for defense applications.

In the first phase, the companies will work on militarizing the Thunder Wasp GT, which has a maximum take-off weight of approximately 800 kilograms. The goal is to integrate defense-grade systems into the existing platform for broader operational utility.

“Patria’s strong background in research and development provides a good foundation for bringing new intelligent features to drone systems. Patria has wide expertise in developing and integrating the capabilities required for military use into the chosen platforms to achieve the desired performance. We see that the militarization of such a completely new type of capability has several potential applications in today’s constantly changing operational environment. We look forward to continuing our excellent cooperation with ACC Innovation,” commented Mikko Leino, Executive Vice President, Operations, Patria.

“We are proud to announce our collaboration with Patria, a partnership that represents a significant step forward in the development and deployment of advanced aerial platforms. Our expertise in high-performance quadcopter systems, combined with Patria’s vast experience in defense innovation, will allow us to explore new frontiers in autonomous and heavy-lift aerial technologies. While the applications are wide-ranging, we remain committed to ensuring that our technologies are developed and deployed responsibly, with a clear focus on safety, reliability, and mission effectiveness,” said Max Drougge, CTO, ACC Innovation AB.

Patria has been investing in technologies supporting unmanned operations in demanding environments such as the Arctic. Their efforts span full mission capability, including planning, navigation, payload control, communication integrity, and mission analysis. The company offers platform-independent solutions tailored for military and security authorities.

North Korean army holds special operations drills

North Korea’s military held a combined tactical drill of special operations to enhance combat efficiency, state-run media reported Wednesday.

The combined tactical drills of special operations and tank subunits’ joint fire strike demonstration took place Tuesday, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

“Various tactical drills conducted by special operations sub-units for passing the standard of all-purpose battalion and the training match between tankmen’s sub-units held afterwards aroused the visitors’ special interest,” the agency reported.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, along with Defense Minister No Kwang Chol and other senior military officials witnessed the combined drills.

Speaking at the occasion, Kim praised the tactical drills and said they aimed to enhance the combat efficiency and effectiveness of the country’s weapon systems.

“Our revolutionary armed forces are now in charge of not a few fronts, but the most important among them is the anti-imperialist class front, and making full preparations for war is the most crucial task,” he said.

He stressed that combat drill to turn the whole army into an elite ranks that are prepared thoroughly and perfectly to execute any order is the first revolutionary task.

He stressed that the combat drill to turn the whole army into an elite ranks that are prepared thoroughly and perfectly to execute any order is the first revolutionary task.

Source: AA

Guns N’ Royals: A Saudi-American Story

There are few alliances in modern politics as steady, as rewarding, and as frequently photographed as the one between Saudi Arabia and the United States. It’s a partnership built not just on mutual interests, but on shared transactions and many of them involve weapons.

Yesterday the world saw another chapter in that story. During Donald Trump’s visit to Riyadh, the two countries announced a new deal: $142 billion worth of U.S. weapons and defense systems would be sent to the Kingdom. It was described as the largest sale in the history of U.S. arms exports. For those who’ve been following the relationship, it was less of a surprise and more of a continuation.

The numbers are always impressive and grand enough to make even the most jaded Pentagon analyst raise an eyebrow. The $110 billion arms package announced during Trump’s 2017 Riyadh visit was a milestone. Then came the 2025 encore: a $142 billion defense agreement, billed as the largest in history. And just like any great sequel, it came with more pyrotechnics, more sound, and considerably less subtlety.

But beyond the headlines, one might ask: what exactly is being purchased here? The official documents speak of air defense systems, jets, naval technology, and training packages. The unofficial translation? Access, alignment, and perhaps most crucially assurance.

Saudi Arabia has long aspired to modernize its military. It has also shown an affinity for buying in bulk. F-15SA jets? Take 84. Patriot systems? Add THAAD to the cart. Frigates, helicopters, surveillance platforms? Check, check, and check again.

But the appeal of these transactions is not limited to the equipment itself. These are not only arms sales, they are diplomatic contracts dressed as procurement. Each deal comes with an unspoken understanding: continued support, some degree of political shielding, and at times, an elegant silence on uncomfortable issues.

To be fair, the United States also knows how to keep this relationship running smoothly. Presidents from both parties have continued the tradition of friendly meetings, security briefings, and carefully prepared statements… everything needed to keep things on track.

What’s Public, What’s Not
Of course, everything is public. Until it isn’t.

The Foreign Military Sales (FMS) system is a marvel of structured opacity. Budgets are announced, packages are debated, and congressional notifications are sent. But the real details, the performance based incentives, and the industrial offsets that make French or British competitors quietly furious, those reside in a quieter place.

And then there’s the grey market of influence: retired generals as consultants, think tanks as intermediaries, and lobbyists as unofficial translators of foreign intent. All legal, all documented, and all very effective.

From the Saudi side, these deals serve multiple ends. Military modernization? Yes. Regional deterrence? Absolutely. But just as importantly: prestige.

A $100 billion package is not just a defense contract, it’s a press release, a statement of alignment, and a message to friends and rivals alike. It tells Tehran to think twice, assures Washington that the kingdom is “committed,” and reminds Paris and London that Riyadh’s procurement phone is still ringing.

Meanwhile, in Washington, these deals offer strategic continuity dressed in corporate language. Jobs are created, factories stay open, and presidential press conferences feature the magic word: billions.

Final Thoughts from the Orchestra Pit
The U.S.-Saudi relationship is not built on ideology. It’s built on military, finance, and politics. And while critics may balk at the ethical cost, the machinery of arms diplomacy keeps turning. Because in the end, both sides get exactly what they want.

The Kingdom gets its hardware and a geopolitical buffer. The United States gets influence, contracts, and another round of applause at the shareholder meeting.

In this rock show of power and pragmatism, everyone plays their part. Some sing, some strum, and some simply nod from the back row, knowing that in the world of defense, the most enduring sound is not the roar of the jet engine…it’s the quiet click of another deal signed.

Ahmet Işıktekiner – Defensehere