The US has approved a potential $175 million sale of MK 54 MOD 0 Lightweight Torpedoes to India, aimed at enhancing India's anti-submarine warfare capabilities. Developed by Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems and the US Navy, these torpedoes will be integrated into India's MH-60R helicopters. The deal is part of a broader strategy to strengthen US-India defense ties, with no expected impact on regional military balance. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency highlighted the sale's role in bolstering India's defense stockpile, with US personnel providing training and support.

The House of Lords International Relations and Defence Committee's report highlights significant failings in the UK's military readiness, emphasizing the need for urgent reform in defence posture and spending. It criticizes NATO and the UK for failing to deter Russia's aggression in Ukraine and calls for a reassessment of deterrence strategies. The report identifies gaps in military capabilities, procurement inefficiencies, and the need for increased investment in air and missile defence systems. It warns of vulnerabilities to hybrid and cyber threats and stresses the importance of reinforcing NATO ties amid global tensions. Budgetary constraints pose a challenge to modernizing UK forces and meeting NATO commitments.

The United States, United Kingdom, and Canada have initiated a collaboration involving DARPA, DSTL, and DRDC to streamline AI research efforts and enhance cybersecurity. This partnership aims to maintain a technological advantage amid increasing geopolitical complexities.

The UK Ministry of Defence, US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency, and Canadian Department of National Defence have formalized a trilateral collaboration to advance AI and cybersecurity systems. This partnership aims to maintain a technological edge amid growing geopolitical challenges by integrating research and development efforts across the UK, US, and Canada. The CASTLE programme, focusing on AI-driven cybersecurity, is among the first projects. The collaboration seeks to create resilient AI systems for defense, addressing ethical and security challenges while positioning the three nations as leaders in AI development.

The Netherlands plans to increase its defence budget to €22bn in 2024, with a further rise to €24bn by 2025, in response to escalating global tensions, particularly in Europe. The budget prioritizes investments in equipment, personnel, and readiness, with the Royal Netherlands Army receiving the largest share. The Defence Equipment Budget Fund will focus on modernizing military hardware, including F-35 jets and NH90 helicopters. Personnel costs will account for 56% of the budget, with additional funds allocated for recruitment. The strategy emphasizes combat readiness and international cooperation, particularly with NATO and the EU, to standardize military systems and enhance production capabilities.

Austal USA has secured a $450 million contract from General Dynamics Electric Boat to enhance its production capacity at the Mobile, Alabama shipyard, supporting the US Navy's Submarine Industrial Base. This strategic partnership aims to deliver key components for Virginia-class and Columbia-class submarines, addressing delays in the submarine industrial base. The new facility will create around 1,000 jobs and is integral to the US Navy's goal of delivering submarines annually. The contract reflects a shift in the Navy's procurement strategy towards a platform-centric model, ensuring production efficiency and accountability.

Romania has received approval from the US State Department to purchase 32 F-35 fighter jets for $7.2 billion, marking its first acquisition of these advanced aircraft. This deal, part of a broader strategy to enhance Romania's defense capabilities, includes engines, communication systems, and logistical support. The acquisition aligns with Romania's increased defense spending and its role in Eastern European security, particularly given its proximity to Ukraine. Lockheed Martin Aeronautics is the primary contractor, and the purchase is expected to improve Romania's interoperability with NATO forces. Economic benefits may include technology transfers and local investments through offset agreements.

The US Navy has secured a £747 million deal to maintain the F-5 aircraft, which are crucial for simulating enemy tactics and preparing naval pilots for combat scenarios.

India's Defence Acquisition Council has approved a $26.8 billion defence expenditure, focusing on land, sea, and air domains, with 98% of the production being domestic.

Norway will increase defence spending for 2024 by $1.2bn (Nkr12.91bn) in a revised national budget while a long-term plan is worked through parliament.