Americas
Global military spending reached $2.718 trillion in 2024, marking a 9.4 percent increase over 2023, the largest annual rise since the end of the Cold War, the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported. This marks the 10th consecutive year of rising spending worldwide, particularly in Europe and the Middle East. The top five spenders last year were the US, China, Russia, Germany, and India. “As governments increasingly prioritize military security, often at the expense of other budget areas, the economic and social trade-offs could have significant effects on societies for years to come,” said Xiao Liang, Researcher with the SIPRI Military Expenditure and Arms Production Program.
The US Army wants to produce 19,000 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rounds annually, with initial delivery in 2030. Responses are sought for the production of all GMLRS variants: unitary, alternative warhead, and extended range. The potential contract includes efficient and cost-effective production techniques, tooling, engineering change proposals, and supporting activities.
Middle East & Africa
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has transferred a pair of Chinese-made FK-2000 short-range air defense systems to Chad. The delivery is part of the UAE’s ongoing military support for the African country. It includes 64 missiles and 6,000 rounds of 30 mm ammunition, according to Military Africa.
Europe
The United States State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the Netherlands for Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles and related equipment, with an estimated cost of $2.19 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the proposed sale. The United States State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the Netherlands for Tomahawk Land Attack Missiles and related equipment, with an estimated cost of $2.19 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has delivered the required certification notifying Congress of the proposed sale.
Asia-Pacific
The United States may consider deploying F-35 stealth fighter jets to Kunsan Air Base in South Korea as the U.S. Air Force continues to consolidate its F-16 fighters at Osan Air Base. This potential development comes as the Seventh Air Force announced plans to extend its “Super Squadron” test for a second year and establish a second F-16 super squadron at Osan, significantly reducing the fighter presence at Kunsan.
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