Military Industry

US Army trains new Saudi anti-missile THAAD crew as Gulf air defense lags

Despite damage from Israel’s June air campaign, Iran’s ballistic missile arsenal continues to threaten Arab states and has in the past limited US military access to regional bases, testing the Pentagon’s ability to manage its global resources.

United States

Germany inks $408M arms deal with Israel despite pledge to curb exports over Gaza

Though the new deal involves imports rather than exports, it has raised questions about the broader consistency of Germany’s defense policy, as Berlin has sought to distance itself from Israel’s actions during the Gaza war.

Israel

Iran plans 20 satellites, test launch by end of 2025: What to know

Iran is seeking investment in its space agency and has made progress in developing satellites in the face of sanctions, though reliance on Russia remains a factor.

Iran

Jordan to resume conscription in 2026, call up 6,000 men: What to know

In 2026, 6,000 men born in 2007 will be drafted for a three-month training program.

Jordan

Serbia, Slovenia still buying Israeli arms despite embargo: What to know

The Elbit Systems deal with Serbia is one of the largest in the company’s history, second only to a $1.7 billion agreement to modernize the Hellenic Air Force’s training program in Greece.

Israel

Analysis

What UAE interest in South Korea’s KF-21 jets signals for Gulf defense strategy

A recent “friendship flight” with the KF-21 Boramae gave the UAE a firsthand look at Seoul’s most advanced fighter, highlighting Abu Dhabi’s efforts to diversify its airpower suppliers and expand regional influence.

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance

Analysis

Iran courts Africa to ease isolation, but trails Russia, China, Turkey

Iran's outreach to Africa after the recent war with Israel is as much about optics as it is about outcomes. In hosting South Africa's top general, Tehran framed limited agreements and symbolic gestures as strategic wins and steps toward new alliances amid diplomatic isolation.

By A correspondent in Tehran

In Tehran, reporting on politics

Libya’s Khalifa Hifter names son Saddam second-in-command: What to know

Saddam Hifter’s appointment as deputy general commander of the Libyan National Army positions him as a key power player in eastern Libya amid ongoing political division.

Libya

Analysis

Turkey’s military shake-up: Adapting to new threats or political meddling?

A new personnel law reflects growing political influence over military decision-making, raising concerns about the military's meritocracy and autonomy.

By Barin Kayaoglu

In Ankara, reporting on geopolitics and national security

Germany to halt Israel military exports that can be used in Gaza: What to know

Germany, traditionally one of Israel’s strongest allies in Europe, has been under pressure to toughen its stance toward the war in Gaza as the humanitarian crisis deepens.

Israel

Turkey names new army chief in unexpected reshuffle

While official releases cited staffing shortages as the reason, it has been roughly a decade since a Turkish chief of staff has retired before completing a full four-year tenure.

Turkey

Analysis

Why France is quietly becoming Saudi Arabia’s go-to internal security partner

Riyadh seeks French expertise for crowd control, counternarcotics and digital security ahead of a decade of mega-events.

By Francesco Schiavi

In Bologna, reporting on security, defense, economy, governance