Modernization & Upgrading

In this edition of the DefenseTech Brief, we examine Europe's accelerated armored vehicle modernization efforts, contrasting them with the U.S. Army's scaling back of legacy programs. The report highlights key procurement initiatives in Greece, Romania, and the Netherlands, showcasing a strategic shift towards domestic industrial participation and advanced mechanized capabilities. This divergence underscores differing defense priorities and threat perceptions between the U.S. and its European allies.

As the U.S. Army scales back its armored vehicle programs, European nations are accelerating major modernization efforts, acquiring thousands of new armored fighting vehicles across multiple platforms. This article examines key programs in Greece, Romania, and the Netherlands, highlighting recent, local industrial involvement, competing international bids, and the broader implications of diverging transatlantic defense priorities.

Rheinmetall showcased its enhanced SSW40 grenade rifle at DEFEA 2025, a magazine-fed, semi-automatic 40mm launcher with advanced fire control and planned support for programmable airburst munitions. Designed for both low- and medium-velocity grenades, the SSW40 significantly expands the precision and range of squad-level firepower.

The defense technology landscape continues to evolve rapidly, with this week's developments highlighting several interconnected trends that present significant investment opportunities across multiple domains. The fundamental shift toward low-cost, mass-produced autonomous systems represents perhaps the most disruptive market dynamic, creating opportunities for both established defense primes and specialized technology providers.

The U.S. Army’s 2025 restructuring marks a decisive pivot—from legacy platforms to precision fires, autonomy, and rapid mobility. While this transformation opens new opportunities in missiles, drones, and sustainment tech, it also puts pressure on traditional players. We break down the winners, the exposed, and what this means for investors and defense suppliers.

The defense landscape continues evolving rapidly, with emerging technologies reshaping battlefield dynamics across domains. This week's developments highlight cost-effective drone proliferation, increased artillery autonomy, extended-range strike capabilities, enhanced vehicle protection systems, and significant procurement...

Last week, the U.S. Navy's Strategic Systems Programs (SSP) reached a significant milestone in the development of its sea-based hypersonic capability with a successful end-to-end flight test of the 'Dark Eagle' conventional hypersonic missile...