From the MILTECH BRIEF event dataset — every item we publish is logged as a structured, source-graded record. Stated values only; we never estimate.
U.S.-based Fortem Technologies and European missile-maker MBDA announced an expanded partnership to integrate Fortem's autonomous counter-drone systems into European and allied air-defence architectures. The agreement enables defence and government customers to deploy Fortem technology through MBDA. No contract values or specific programmes were disclosed.
Italy's air force intends to equip its six TB-3 drones — derived from Baykar's TB-3 and assembled in Italy by LBA Systems — with MBDA armaments, Defense News reports. The move would integrate European weapons onto a Turkish-origin platform built locally.
Why it matters: Rome is threading the needle: Turkish airframe, Italian assembly, European weapons. It's a hedging strategy that keeps Ankara's industrial appetite inside NATO boundaries.
MBDA confirmed it is offering the submarine-launched SM39 Exocet Block 2 Mod 2 anti-ship missile for Indonesia's future Scorpène Evolved submarines. The weapon is a modernized variant of the SM39 family already in service with multiple navies. Indonesia is procuring Scorpène-class boats from Naval Group.
MBDA successfully completed the validation launch of the new Teseo Mk2/E anti-ship missile system for the Italian Navy, marking completion of a multi-year development programme. The Mk2/E variant incorporates an evolved guidance system and extended range compared to earlier Teseo versions. The missile is intended for Italian surface combatants and represents a domestic alternative to imported anti-ship weapons.
MBDA showcased the Aster 15 and Aster 30 air-defence missiles to the Royal Danish Navy during DALO Industry Days 2026, highlighting their combat record in the Red Sea and new Block 1 NT capabilities. Denmark is evaluating air-defence options for future surface combatants.
The French Defence Procurement Agency (DGA) formally notified MBDA and Safran Electronics & Defense to supply the THUNDART long-range land strike capability under the Frappe Longue Portée / Terrestre innovation partnership launched in 2022. THUNDART will provide the French Army with sovereign precision-strike reach in high-intensity conflict; the system is designed for targets beyond artillery and cruise-missile range. Contract value and delivery timeline were not disclosed.
Why it matters: Paris is filling the deep-strike gap left by the absence of ATACMS-class systems—THUNDART gives France an indigenous counterweight to U.S. and German procurement dependencies.
FranceDGAMBDASafran Electronics & DefenseFrench Army EDR Magazine →European Security & Defence →Defence Industry Europe →Opex360 (primary) →
Spain's navy chose MBDA's SIMBAD RC very-short-range air defence system to equip F80-class frigates and the Juan Carlos I amphibious assault ship. The system replaces the retired Meroka close-in weapon system. Spain plans to extend SIMBAD RC across its surface fleet.
Why it matters: Meroka's twelve 20mm guns are gone; Spain now relies on Mistral missiles in twin-tube launchers—slower rate of fire but longer reach, betting engagement geometry beats volume.
MBDA formally opened its first industrial facility in Poland at a ceremony in Czosnów on September 8. UK Minister of State for Defence Readiness Luke Pollard attended. The site expands MBDA's European footprint to the NATO eastern flank.
Why it matters: MBDA is following the contracts — Poland's missile demand now warrants local presence, not just export shipments from France or the UK.
MBDAPolandLuke PollardUnited Kingdom Breaking Defense →European Security & Defence →
GDI Simulation, the MBDA-owned training and simulation business, has acquired Agenium Group, a French defence training specialist. Financial terms were not disclosed. The acquisition will combine GDI's simulation capabilities with Agenium's established customer base and industrial partnerships in France.