France and Turkey agree defense cooperation roadmap after years of tension
France and Turkey have agreed on a roadmap to strengthen defense cooperation, marking a thaw in relations after years of tension over gas exploration in the Eastern Mediterranean and Turkish-Greek disputes. The agreement signals a strategic recalibration in NATO's southern flank.
Turkey proposes 229% rise in defense procurement spending for 2027, pending parliamentary approval
Turkey's draft 2027 budget calls for $44.5 billion in defense spending and a separate $25.2 billion for internal security, according to Breaking Defense. The defense procurement line would rise 229% year-on-year under the proposal, which requires parliamentary approval. Turkey's defense industry has expanded rapidly, with firms like Baykar and Turkish Aerospace exporting drones and opening new production lines.
Why it matters: Ankara is budgeting like a country at war — and building the industrial base to sustain it, which puts pressure on European export markets from Africa to the Gulf.
Jeumont Electric to supply three complete electric propulsion systems for Poland's A26 submarines under Orka programme
French firm Jeumont Electric will deliver three low-signature electric propulsion systems for the Polish Navy's A26 submarines under the Orka programme. The systems are designed to minimize acoustic and electromagnetic signatures.
France orders several hundred more MX-10 DAMOCLES kamikaze drones, Luxembourg signs first export deal worth €1.6 million
France has activated an optional tranche of its MX-10 DAMOCLES contract with KNDS France and Delair, ordering several hundred additional quadcopter loitering munitions. Luxembourg became the first export customer, signing a contract worth just over €1.6 million for an initial capability.
French Air Force chief warns 184 combat aircraft insufficient, fleet operating 15% above planned capacity
France has 184 combat aircraft and the Air and Space Force is already operating beyond planned capacity, General Jérôme Bellanger told a parliamentary hearing. He warned the current fleet is insufficient to maintain nuclear deterrence, protect national airspace and prepare for high-intensity warfare. French fighter aircraft are being used more than 15% above planned operational levels.
Why it matters: France is running its fighter fleet at 115% tempo while planning to give Rafales to Ukraine — a combination that does not add up without new airframes or a smaller mission set.