Croatia has committed to supporting Ukraine in its demining efforts. This commitment was formalized through the signing of a memorandum between the Center for Cross-Activity and Environmental Security and the Croatian Center for Testing, Development, and Training (HCR-CTRO). The signing took place during the 27th Annual International Meeting of UN National Directors and Advisers on Cross-Activity (NDMUN27) in Geneva, organized by the UN Cross-Activity Service (UNMAS).
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Leopard 2R mine removal tank ( Illustrative image). (Picture source: Finish MoD)

The memorandum outlines several key areas of cooperation. First, Croatia will share its extensive experience in humanitarian demining with Ukraine. The two countries will also collaborate on innovative projects focused on new technologies and techniques for detecting explosive devices.

Additionally, they will develop joint training programs and initiatives aimed at enhancing the skills of professionals in the field of humanitarian demining. Finally, Croatia and Ukraine will work together to promote international standards and best practices in humanitarian demining, strengthening public awareness and advocacy efforts.

The choice of Croatia as a partner in this endeavor is highly strategic. This Balkan country experienced significant contamination from explosive devices during the conflicts of the 1990s. Although demining operations are still ongoing in Croatia, they are expected to be completed by next year. This experience makes Croatia an important ally for Ukraine as it faces its demining challenges.

Since the beginning of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Croatia has demonstrated support for Ukraine through various means, including military and humanitarian assistance. To date, Croatia has approved a total of 160 million euros in aid to Ukraine, of which approximately 77% is dedicated to military aid.

This includes providing all its Mi-8 helicopters and other essential military equipment​​. In August 2023, Croatian Prime Minister Andrej Plenković announced a new military assistance package worth 33 million dollars, underscoring Croatia's strong commitment to supporting Ukraine in its defense efforts against Russian aggression.

Croatia has proven to be a valuable ally for Ukraine, offering substantial assistance both militarily and humanitarianly, and sharing its expertise in demining to help secure conflict-affected areas. Croatia's support is expected to significantly enhance Ukraine's ability to manage and mitigate the threats posed by unexploded ordnance.

Ukraine and Luxembourg have begun discussions on a bilateral security agreement during a meeting held on May 14, 2024, focusing on defense cooperation and Luxembourg’s long-term support for Ukraine. This announcement was made by the official website of the President of Ukraine.
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Ukraine and Luxembourg have begun discussions on a bilateral security and defense agreement. (Picture source: Army Recognition)

During the meeting, the two parties worked on the draft agreement, discussed key provisions, and agreed on the next steps. They reported significant progress towards finalizing the document. The Ukrainian delegation is led by Andrii Yermak, Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, with his deputy Ihor Zhovkva overseeing today’s session. "We are grateful to Luxembourg for its consistent support and leadership, particularly in areas such as co-chairing the IT coalition, military aid, and supporting Ukraine’s EU and NATO applications. I am confident that these efforts will be reflected in our security agreement," said Zhovkva.

Luxembourg has demonstrated ongoing solidarity with Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion in 2022. In 2023, Luxembourg allocated nearly 90 million euros to military aid for Ukraine, representing 17% of its defense budget. In addition to military assistance, Luxembourg has provided substantial humanitarian aid, including a donation of 4 million euros to United Nations agencies and Luxembourgish NGOs active in Ukraine.

At the local level, Luxembourgish municipalities have also offered support by hosting Ukrainian refugees and organizing solidarity initiatives such as donation drives and renaming streets to show their support for Ukraine. The Luxembourgish cultural sector has also contributed by organizing events to raise funds and awareness about the situation in Ukraine.

Civil society in Luxembourg, including organizations like LUkraine asbl, has been active in providing direct support to Ukrainian refugees and organizing fundraising campaigns to aid efforts in Ukraine. In October 2022, LUkraine asbl launched a campaign to raise funds for purchasing emergency vehicles for Ukraine, raising more than 551,000 euros by the end of the year.

Luxembourg's aid to Ukraine is quite significant considering the size and capabilities of the country, and Ukrainians will undoubtedly cite Luxembourg as an example when looking at the share of defense spending dedicated to aid for Ukraine.

On May 13, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Luxembourg Prime Minister Luc Frieden discussed the bilateral security agreement during a phone conversation. Ukraine has already signed security agreements with nine countries, with Latvia being the most recent, and Norway expected to sign an agreement soon. In May, President Zelenskyy announced that seven other security agreements are underway, including one with the United States. Spanish media reported that Ukraine and Spain will also sign a security agreement this week.

As reported by Diena on May 14, 2024, Latvia decided during a closed government session to allocate 10 million euros for the purchase of artillery ammunition for Ukraine. This funding, confirmed by Prime Minister Evika Siliņa and Defense Minister Andris Spruds, will support the Czech Plan, introduced during the Munich Security Conference in February 2024 by Czech President Petr Pavel to address Ukraine's urgent need for artillery shells.
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With support from nearly 20 countries, the Czech Republic has initiated a project to supply Ukraine with 800,000 rounds of artillery ammunition, potentially increasing this to 1.5 million rounds within a year. (Picture source: US DoD)

With support from nearly 20 countries, the Czech Republic has initiated a project to supply Ukraine with 800,000 rounds of artillery ammunition, potentially increasing this to 1.5 million rounds within a year. This initiative involves collaboration with various Western nations and suppliers from Africa and Asia to address Ukraine's ammunition shortages in its conflict with Russia. Specifically, it includes the procurement of 500,000 rounds of NATO-standard 155mm shells and 300,000 rounds of 122mm shells, sourced from non-EU countries for quicker availability​. To date, almost all necessary funding has been gathered, with the first deliveries expected by June 2024.

This initiative is expected to partially address Ukraine's urgent need for ammunition amid the ongoing conflict with Russia, given the Ukrainian Army's requirements of 75,000–90,000 artillery shells per month for defensive operations, and 200,000–250,000 for major offensive activities. Confronted with challenges such as production limitations, increased prices in the global ammunition market, and political complexities within the EU and US, the Czech Republic's strategic approach involves fostering international cooperation and implementing innovative funding mechanisms to ensure a steady provision of artillery munitions to Ukraine.

Latvian Defense Minister Spruds indicated that the allocated amount will allow for the acquisition of over 3,000 rounds of 155-millimeter artillery ammunition. This decision is part of Latvia's ongoing financial commitments to Ukraine, which include military support pegged at 0.25% of its GDP annually for the next two years. For the current year, this commitment amounts to 112 million euros.

Since the escalation of the conflict due to Russia's full-scale invasion, Latvia has committed approximately 650 million euros in total support to Ukraine. This includes a variety of military supplies such as drones, helicopters, howitzers, small arms, personal equipment, ammunition, anti-tank weapons, air defense systems, radars, information technology equipment, land vehicles, and fuel.

On the civilian front, the Latvian "Entrepreneurs for Peace" fund, which unites more than 300 Latvian companies, has sent aid to Ukraine exceeding 10 million euros, including the delivery of dozens of vehicles. (Picture source: UznemejiMieram)

On the civilian front, Latvian companies have also played a significant role in aiding Ukraine. The "Entrepreneurs for Peace" fund, which unites more than 300 Latvian companies, has sent aid to Ukraine exceeding 10 million euros. With the support of donors, since February 24, 2022, the fund has provided 460 drones, 135 generators, 413 vehicles—including ambulances, tractors with trailers, and boats—104 scopes and night vision equipment, 525 mobile charging stations and computers, and 8,237 units of soldiers' clothing and equipment.

Donations amounting to 6.7 million euros have been directed towards strengthening the Ukrainian armed forces, 2 million euros towards humanitarian aid for Ukrainian civilians, 650 thousand euros towards supporting Ukrainian hospitals, and another 650 thousand euros have been used for reconstruction projects in Chernihiv and Jahidne. In 2024, aid worth 750 thousand euros was sent to Ukraine, making the total assistance 10,015,209.44 euros.

For instance, in March 2024, a convoy of vehicles was dispatched in close cooperation with the Latvian State Police to deliver vehicles, drones, mobile charging stations, and other supplies to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and National Police units. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Latvia, in a report approved by the government, stated that Latvia will prioritize the reconstruction of the Chernihiv region, where approximately 20,000 structures, over half of which are residential, have been destroyed. In the fall of 2022, "Entrepreneurs for Peace" implemented the first grant from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to support this reconstruction effort. In 2023, the project "Construction of housing in Jahidne village of Chernihiv region" was carried out, with an investment of approximately 450,000 euros.

Marking the anniversary of the war, a charity concert titled "Dedication to Ukraine" was held at the Riga Circus Arena, gathering volunteers and raising over 500,000 euros through contributions from musicians, the public, and businesses. With the support of the State Police, more than 75 vehicles previously used by the police have been received by various units of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, the National Guard, and the National Police. Chief of the State Police, Armands Ruks, emphasized the Ukrainian police's role in maintaining internal security and participating in the war effort. He noted the necessity of the support provided and acknowledged the collaborative efforts with partners to equip Ukrainian colleagues with technical units to strengthen their capabilities.

In cooperation with the National Defense Academy of Latvia, new tablets and office equipment were delivered to the Land Forces Academy in Lviv and the National Guard Academy in Kharkiv as part of the "Donate to the training institutions of the Ukrainian Army" campaign. These academies prepare junior officers for various roles within the Ukrainian Armed Forces, including commanders of infantry, mechanized infantry, tank units, combat support, and combat service support specialties. Military specialist Zane Ribakova pointed out the ongoing preparation of future military leaders and the appreciation from Ukrainian colleagues for the support provided.

During the IDEB, International Defense Exhibition in Bratislava, held from May 14 to 16 in Slovakia, predominantly Balkan industries are gathered. Significantly, the company ZTS Špecial is presenting the latest in its series of military vehicles, created in collaboration with its subsidiary Konstrukta Defence. The 120mm AM120 is mounted on a Tatra 815-7 6x6 chassis with a Puma L2 Long armored cabin.
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AM-120 displayed in IDEB 2024 (Picture source: X/@RyszardJonski)

The abbreviation 'AM' stands for Automatic Mortar and '120' refers to the caliber of the mortar.

The autonomous turret can be installed on various chassis types and is remotely controlled from the vehicle's cab. There is also a single backup operator station within the turret itself. The elevation range is 40° to 80°, and the traverse is 360°. The minimum range is 504 meters and the maximum is 8,600 meters. The ammunition carousel holds 60 rounds, with a firing rate of 18-20 rounds per minute.

The Slovak company Kerametal, which supplies the fire control system, and the Czech company Czechoslovak Group (CSG), responsible for providing the chassis and cabin, are also involved in the development. CSG initially planned to integrate the mortar onto the Pandur 8x8 it produces.

The price of this vehicle makes it highly attractive, costing only €1.5-2 million. This pricing opens purchasing prospects to Balkan countries and other nations with limited defense budgets in Europe and Asia.

ZTS Špecial, a major player in the Slovak defense industry, specializes in the development and manufacture of advanced weaponry and civil metal equipment such as deep drilling tools. The company draws on a long tradition of military engineering in Central Europe and has distinguished itself through innovation and its ability to meet the specific requirements of modern armed forces. Its products include a range of armored vehicles, artillery systems, and other specialized defense and security equipment.

In particular, ZTS Špecial is known for its close collaboration with other companies and defense organizations to integrate cutting-edge technologies into its systems, significantly enhancing the operational capacity of armies. With its focus on robustness, reliability, and innovation, ZTS Špecial continues to play a crucial role in bolstering the defensive capabilities of Slovakia and its international allies.

One of the elements that have contributed to ZTS's reputation is the DVK-30 turret, which equips the modernization of BMPs still in service in the national armies of the Balkans.

On May 13, 2024, Chinese troops arrived at Sihanoukville Port in Cambodia for the annual Golden Dragon joint exercise between China and Cambodia. The troops began unloading their equipment and are set to assemble at a Cambodian Royal Army training base. The exercise involves the Southern Theater Command of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, which dispatched various military branches, including the navy, air force, and joint logistics support forces.
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The 15-day exercise will involve 1,315 military personnel from Cambodia and 760 from China, supported by three Chinese warships and 11 Cambodian ships. (Picture source: Chinese MoD)

According to a Cambodian official, Cambodia and China are set to begin their annual Golden Dragon military exercise this week, aimed at strengthening cooperation and exchanging military experiences. The 15-day exercise will involve 1,315 military personnel from Cambodia and 760 from China, supported by three Chinese warships and 11 Cambodian ships. Cambodian army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Thong Solimo stated that the exercise, commencing Thursday, will focus on combating terrorism and providing humanitarian relief in both countries and the region.

The Golden Dragon exercises started in December 2016, following Cambodia's cancellation of similar drills with the United States, known as Angkor Sentinel. China describes its relationship with Cambodia as "ironclad," with Cambodia being a key ally in Southeast Asia. China has significant influence over Cambodia's economy, being the largest benefactor and creditor, with over 40% of Cambodia's $10 billion foreign debt owed to China. This financial dependency allows Cambodia to largely ignore Western concerns regarding its human rights record, often aligning with Beijing's foreign policy positions, including territorial claims in the South China Sea.

A recent example of Cambodia's alignment with Chinese interests is the decision to proceed with the Funan Techo Canal project. This Chinese-financed project, costing $1.7 billion, aims to build a 180-kilometer canal across four Cambodian southern provinces, connecting Phnom Penh to the Gulf of Thailand. The plan has drawn concerns from neighboring Vietnam, with analysts suggesting that the canal's dimensions could facilitate the movement of Chinese military forces towards Vietnam's southern coast, aggravating already tense relations between the two countries.

China's presence at Cambodia's Ream Naval Base has also raised eyebrows internationally, with suspicions that it might serve as a strategic outpost for the Chinese navy. These suspicions were fueled when two Chinese naval vessels docked at a newly constructed pier at the base on December 7, 2023, coinciding with a visit from China's top defense official. In April 2024, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Cambodia to reaffirm the ties between the two nations.

For the Golden Dragon-2024 exercise, the Chinese deployment includes the Type 071 "Qilianshan" amphibious landing ship and two other naval vessels, reflecting China's military strength in Southeast Asia. While the scale of the exercise may appear modest, it shows China's regional influence and serves as a deterrent to neighboring countries like the Philippines. The presence of Chinese warships at Cambodian docks and the ongoing tensions in the South China Sea highlight the strategic significance of these exercises. Despite being a routine event, the Golden Dragon-2024 exercise carries broader implications. It demonstrates the deepening military ties between China and Cambodia and signals China's ability to project power in the region.

The Colombian Army (EJC) continues to deploy its 4x4 AFV Textron Marine & Land Systems (TM&LS) M1117 (Pegasos) vehicles as part of counter-insurgency operations. Indeed, forty units from the Ejército (Colombian Armed Forces) have been deployed in the Bolívar province in the north of the country, to carry out control operations. The operation aims to reduce the presence of narcotics traffickers in the area.
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U.S. Army M1117 Armored patrol vehicle in Iraq  (Picture source: U.S. DoD)

For this purpose, the Pegasos mobilized in the area are equipped with the TM&LS 40 mm/.50 caliber remote-controlled turret weapon station which rotates 360 degrees and elevates between 10 and 60 degrees, equipped with the 12.7 M-2HB-QCB Browning General Dynamics MK-19 40x53 mm grenade launcher. It should be noted that Colombia has a total of 214 M1117s, with an operational availability of 91% of the fleet, thanks to two maintenance processes carried out periodically.

The M1117s are manufactured by Textron Marine and Land Systems, which is a division of Textron Inc., a multi-industry company known for its diverse range of products including aircraft, defense equipment, and industrial components. This division specifically specializes in the design and manufacturing of innovative solutions for land and air defense platforms. In its civilian version, Textron is the manufacturer of aircraft from the Cessna and Beechcraft brands, but in its military component, Textron Marine & Land Systems is particularly known for its amphibious vehicles, such as the Ship-to-Shore Connector (SSC), which is a modern landing craft used by the U.S. Navy for the rapid transport of troops and equipment between ships and the coast. The division also produces light armored vehicles, such as the M1117 Armored Security Vehicle (ASV), which is used by military police forces and security forces around the world for missions requiring high mobility and protection against ballistic and explosive threats.

The M1117 offers armor resistant to impacts from small caliber ammunition and shrapnel, Stanag II 4569 LVL III. It is also equipped with a system to protect against mines and improvised explosive devices (IEDs).

The standard main armament is a remote turret armed with a 40 mm automatic cannon and a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun, allowing rapid and effective fire against both ground and low-altitude aerial targets, as well as a .50 caliber (12.7 mm) machine gun in the superstructure for engagements against aerial targets or to provide additional fire support.
Mobility:

The M1117 is powered by a 260-horsepower Cummins diesel engine, providing good performance on roads and various terrains.
Particularly developed with the idea of preserving soldier comfort, the M1117 is prized for its high mobility, and its ability to provide fire while being relatively protected.

Today, Colombia uses 269 M1117 ASVs initially used by the U.S. Army. In August 2020, a donation of 200 vehicles was approved under the Excess Defense Article (EDA) program. Colombia recently announced an upcoming new delivery.

President Joe Biden has informed Congress of his intention to send a $1 billion military aid package to Israel, following a temporary suspension of bomb deliveries due to concerns over their use in Gaza, as reported by Financial Times on 15 May 2024. This package includes tank ammunition and tactical vehicles, despite internal opposition and concerns over civilian casualties.
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Since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, the U.S. has supplied substantial military aid to enhance Israel's defense capabilities (Picture source: Israel Defense Forces)

The Biden administration had paused the delivery of 2,000-pound bombs to deter an attack on Rafah, where many Palestinians are sheltering. This pause marked the first instance of Biden withholding arms since the conflict with Hamas began in October. However, the new $1 billion aid package demonstrates Washington’s continued support for Israel’s defense needs. According to National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, the U.S. is committed to providing the full amount allocated in the $95 billion foreign security aid bill for Ukraine, Israel, and the Indo-Pacific. This new package, which includes $700 million for tank ammunition, $500 million for tactical vehicles, and $60 million for mortar rounds, underscores a long-term commitment to Israel’s defense.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu responded defiantly to the suspension of bomb deliveries, asserting that Israel would "stand-alone" if necessary. Biden’s decision has sparked divisions within the Democratic Party, with some members supporting his use of leverage over Israel, while others, such as Senators Jacky Rosen and John Fetterman, advocate for unconditional support. The U.S. State Department has warned that American-made weapons may have been used in ways that violate humanitarian rights but have not halted ongoing military aid. Efforts are ongoing to negotiate a temporary ceasefire and secure the release of hostages held by Hamas.

The United States has a long history of supporting Israel, providing significant military, economic, and diplomatic assistance. Since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023, this support has intensified. The U.S. has supplied substantial military aid to enhance Israel's defense capabilities, including multiple interceptors for the Iron Dome defense system, thousands of JDAM kits, and other precision-guided munitions, along with 12 additional F-35 aircraft since October 2023.

Additionally, two KC-46A aerial refuelers have been delivered to extend the operational range of the Israeli Air Force, along with 50 M1 Abrams tanks and 20 M109 howitzers to bolster ground forces, and six MQ-9 Reaper drones equipped with advanced surveillance and strike capabilities. In November 2023, Congress approved an emergency aid package of $3.8 billion, with $1 billion specifically allocated for replenishing Iron Dome interceptors. Immediate deliveries of Iron Dome interceptors and precision-guided munitions began in October 2023, followed by the arrival of M1 Abrams tanks and MQ-9 Reaper drones in December 2023. Deliveries of KC-46A refuelers were completed in January 2024.

The U.S.-Israel alliance dates back to the Cold War, with consistent military aid ensuring Israel's qualitative military edge in the region. This support includes the transfer of advanced technologies, joint military exercises, and substantial economic aid. The relationship is reinforced by bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress, with aid packages often receiving overwhelming approval. Despite internal divisions within the Democratic Party, President Biden’s administration has reaffirmed its commitment to Israel’s security through continued military support and diplomatic backing.

This aid is seen as crucial for maintaining stability in the Middle East and supporting a key ally against regional threats, particularly from Iran and its proxies. The United States remains Israel’s staunchest ally, providing comprehensive military assistance to strengthen Israel’s defense capabilities. The recent increase in support, especially since the events of October 7, 2023, underscores the strategic importance of this partnership in promoting regional security and stability.

On May 9th, cities across Russia observed Victory Day with parades marking the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Tula's parade included the new AG-34 tactical pickup truck, equipped with a machine gun, which may see increased integration within the Russian armed forces, potentially serving a role similar to that of the Chinese-made Desertcross 1000-3 buggies used in Ukraine.
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Despite some initial doubts based on its Baja truck appearance, the AG-34's recent showcase at the Tula Victory Parade could signify a renewed interest in its capabilities by the Russian Army. (Picture source: Russian social media)

Unveiled at the Army-2023 exhibition and referred to as the "monster buggy" by Russian media outlets, the AG-34 is a tactical pickup truck designed by Alexei Garagashyan, known for his work on the Sherp all-terrain vehicle (ATV). Despite some initial doubts based on its Baja truck appearance, its recent showcase at the Victory Parade could signify a renewed interest in its capabilities by the Russian Army. With ongoing refinement and adaptation, the AG-34 may find widespread adoption within the Russian armed forces.

Unlike traditional military vehicles that prioritize protection, the AG-34 focuses on reliability, mobility, maintainability, and cost-effectiveness. Its design concentrates on essential functionalities, such as replacing complex components with simple indicator lights. Noteworthy features include folding glass, a magnetically secured exterior, intuitive controls, headrest-equipped seats, and an automatically closing rear door, all designed to boost operational efficiency.

For some Russian analysts, these features suggest a design philosophy centered around accessibility and ease of use, drawing comparisons with the iconic T-34 tank for its operational simplicity and effectiveness. Thus, the AG-34 can target the specific needs of Russian special operations forces or specialized tasks within the Russian Army, potentially matching the role of Chinese-made Desertcross 1000-3 buggies used in Ukraine.

Constructed largely from Russian components, the AG-34 incorporates chassis elements from the GAZ Sadko Next truck to ensure reliability and reduce dependence on foreign parts, aligning with the Russian Ministry of Defense’s preference for domestically sourced materials. This pickup truck is powered by a YaMZ 5345 turbocharged diesel engine, producing 240 horsepower and 780 Nm of torque, paired with a five-speed mechanical gearbox and a two-stage transfer case. This configuration allows the AG-34 to achieve a maximum speed of 120 km/h under normal load conditions, which can increase to 150 km/h with specific optional components sourced from China, maintaining a range of 1,200 km facilitated by a 200-liter fuel tank.

With a ground clearance of 420 mm and mounted on 1260x390-20 Ural truck tires, the AG-34 can traverse fords up to 2 meters deep without prior preparation. (Picture source: Russian social media)

With a weight of 3,200 kg, the AG-34 is capable of transporting 1.5 tons under normal conditions and up to 3 tons in an overload mode. Alexey Garagashyan, its creator, noted the AG-34's ability to transport up to eight fighters in the rear and two in the cabin, or carry nine standard 200-liter barrels of fuel. Furthermore, its adaptability extends to serving as a mobile platform for various weapon systems, such as a machine gun, as a logistical vehicle for transporting essential supplies such as fuel and medical equipment, or as a medical evacuation vehicle, with the ability to evacuate two bedridden wounded soldiers.

However, its true strengths lie off-road, with features such as a centralized tire inflation system (CTIS), cam differentials, beadlock-equipped wheels, leaf spring suspensions, and a 9-ton electric winch. The AG-34's structural integrity is further enhanced by a specialized spatial frame, designed to withstand the rigors of off-road travel. Unlike conventional frames prone to torsion, this frame adheres to racing standards, ensuring stability even in the event of a rollover. With a ground clearance of 420 mm and mounted on 1260x390-20 Ural truck tires, the AG-34 can traverse fords up to 2 meters deep without prior preparation.

The vehicle's design also considers logistical efficiency and production feasibility. Two AG-34 pickups can fit into one standard truck for transport, and its production feasibility leverages existing capabilities, which promises efficiency in serial production and integration into military fleets. This strategic approach not only maximizes the rapid mass production potential of the AG-34 but also enhances its potential for widespread use in military operations.

According to a report by the Spanish newspaper Infodefensa on May 15, 2024, the Spanish army has allocated a budget of nine million euros for the maintenance of its fleet of tactical vehicles, manufactured by the Galician company Urovesa. The contract, which spans three years, includes preventive and corrective maintenance work. These operations will affect vehicles currently in service as well as those to be integrated in the future, covering all models, variants, and versions.

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Urovesa's Spanish company maintenance center (Picture source: Urovesa)

The maintenance will be carried out at army bases across Spain as well as in active operation zones. In addition to standard repairs and maintenance, the army has also requested technical assistance and continuous training for maintenance teams, highlighting the importance of the ongoing technological evolution of the vehicles.

The tender, managed by the Head of Economic Affairs of the Army Logistics Support Command (MALE), is open to several companies, although Urovesa, the vehicle manufacturer, is naturally favored to win the contract. Proposals will be accepted until June 12, 2024, with the bid opening scheduled for June 20, 2024.

Currently, the Spanish army has a fleet of 700 Urovesa vehicles divided into three main variants: the high tactical mobility version (AMT), which includes configurations for troop and command transport, ambulances, and transmission vehicles; the high protection version (AP), designed to withstand various threats; and the amphibious version (VSP), capable of operating without special preparation in aquatic environments. These vehicles, which also include configurations for transporting weapon systems such as Spike, Tow, and Mistral missiles, as well as tanker trucks and fire-fighting vehicles, play a crucial role in the operational capacity of the Spanish army.

Paratroopers of the 173rd Airborne Brigade collaborated with the Swedish Army for intensive urban terrain training in Sweden on May 8, 2024, as reported by US Department of Defense. This joint exercise took place at Sweden’s Military Operations in Urban Terrain (MOUT) facility, renowned as one of the world's most sophisticated training sites. The training focused on room-clearing procedures and team coordination, with soldiers learning optimal positions for fire team members and effective sector coverage.
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Stationed in Italy and Germany, the 173rd Airborne brigade regularly engages in joint training exercises with NATO allies and partners (Picture source: US DoD)

The 173rd Airborne Brigade, serving as the U.S. Army's contingency response force in Europe, is tasked with providing rapidly deployable forces to the U.S. European, African, and Central Command areas of responsibility. Stationed in Italy and Germany, the brigade regularly engages in joint training exercises with NATO allies and partners. These routine drills aim to strengthen partnerships and enhance the operational strength of the alliance.

Military cooperation between the United States and Sweden has intensified over the years, well before Sweden’s recent accession to NATO in 2023. This collaboration includes the purchase and production of military equipment. For example, Sweden has acquired Patriot air defense systems from the U.S. and collaborated on projects like developing the Stridsvagn 122 combat vehicle, a Swedish variant of the German Leopard 2 tank, incorporating American technologies. Sweden has also bolstered its defense arsenal through its national industry, notably Saab, known for its Gripen fighter jets.

Furthermore, the armed forces of both countries regularly participate in joint exercises such as "Aurora" and "Northern Wind." Sweden's integration into NATO formalizes and amplifies this long-standing cooperation, providing an official framework for joint operations and a stronger collective defense in the Baltic region.

The war in Ukraine has heightened Sweden's regional security concerns, reinforcing its military cooperation with the United States and NATO allies. This collaboration includes joint military exercises aimed at improving interoperability and force readiness. In response to growing threats, Sweden has increased its defense spending to reach 2% of its GDP, in line with NATO's objectives. This commitment reflects Sweden's determination to enhance its defense capabilities and develop its national defense industry, solidifying its role within the transatlantic alliance.

Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson indicated on 13 may 2024 Sverige Radio during an interview his openness to allowing the deployment of nuclear weapons on Swedish soil in the event of war, sparking a debate as Sweden prepares to join NATO. This statement comes as the Swedish parliament is set to vote on a Defense Cooperation Agreement (DCA) with the United States in June. This agreement would allow the US access to Swedish military bases and the storage of military equipment and weapons, marking a significant shift for Sweden, which abandoned two centuries of military non-alignment to join NATO in March 2023.
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The B61-12 nuclear bomb was certified on an F-15E in June 2020 (Picture source: US DoD)

The government has argued that there is no need to explicitly ban nuclear weapons in the DCA, citing a broad consensus in Sweden against nuclear arms and a parliamentary decision prohibiting nuclear weapons in peacetime. However, Prime Minister Kristersson emphasized that wartime conditions would be different, stating that decisions regarding nuclear weapons in wartime would depend on the circumstances at the time.

Kristersson reassured that any decision to place nuclear weapons in Sweden would be made by Sweden itself, not by the United States. He highlighted that the main goal of Sweden's NATO membership and its defense policy is to prevent such a situation. He also noted that if Ukraine had been a NATO member, it would not have been attacked by Russia.

The Social Democratic Party, which was in power when Sweden applied for NATO membership in May 2022, had previously committed to expressing unilateral reservations against the deployment of nuclear weapons and permanent military bases on Swedish territory. This stance aligns with the policies of neighboring Nordic countries Denmark and Norway, both NATO members who have refused to allow foreign military bases or nuclear weapons on their soil in peacetime.

The United States maintains nuclear weapons in Europe as part of NATO’s deterrence strategy to protect European allies. Currently, about 150 B61 nuclear bombs are distributed across five countries: Belgium, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Turkey. These weapons are stored in airbases, and their use requires the joint agreement of the United States and the host country, with stringent security systems in place to prevent unauthorized use.

The potential presence of nuclear weapons on Swedish soil could enhance deterrence against potential attacks, particularly from Russia. This measure would require appropriate infrastructure and reinforced security protocols while raising debates about national sovereignty and the risks of nuclear escalation.

This Swedish announcement echoes the recent statement by French President Emmanuel Macron, who expressed a desire to include nuclear weapons in discussions about a European Defense. While Sweden would turn to the United States for this nuclear capability, the push to integrate new means within the European Union partly reflects the increasing tensions in Europe, exacerbated by conflicts such as the war in Ukraine.

The Biden administration is contemplating the deployment of an additional battery of Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine, responding to urgent calls for increased military support in light of intensified Russian attacks. This decision was reported by Bloomberg on May 15, 2024.
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U.S. Army Patriot Missile Systems as part of DEFENDER-Europe 21. (Picture source: US DoD)

According to Bloomberg sources, the proposed Patriot system would include a battery along with radar systems. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen Ukraine's air defenses, which has seen contributions from various European allies. Germany, for example, has actively pressured the United States and other European nations to provide more air defense systems to Ukraine. German Vice Chancellor Robert Habeck highlighted the severe threat posed by the high number of drones and missiles targeting Ukraine, deeming air defense a critical need alongside artillery shells​.

The potential decision by the United States to supply an additional Patriot battery is seen as an enhancement of Ukraine's defense arsenal. The Patriot system, known for its effectiveness against a range of aerial threats, would provide Ukraine with a tool to counter missile attacks. Retired Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman noted the strategic importance of this system for Ukraine, particularly in dealing with short-range ballistic missiles​.

The Patriot air defense system is a long-range missile defense system capable of operating in all weather conditions and at all altitudes. This system, designed in the United States, is used by several countries, including Germany, Israel, Japan, Kuwait, the Netherlands, Poland, Qatar, Romania, South Korea, Sweden, Ukraine, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States itself.

The Patriot missile weighs approximately 700 kg and is about 5.2 meters long. It has an effective range of 20 to 35 km, allowing it to cover a wide area to intercept aerial threats. The PAC-3 missile's unique feature is its "hit-to-kill" approach, meaning it does not have an explosive warhead. Instead, it destroys its target using the kinetic energy generated by direct impact, propelled by a solid rocket motor.

In terms of guidance, the PAC-3 missile is equipped with an active radar seeker in its nose, allowing it to track and engage targets autonomously. This guidance system is supplemented by mid-course updates from ground-based radar and the missile's onboard inertial navigation system. The radar used for this system is the AN/MPQ-65, which plays a crucial role in detecting and tracking aerial threats.

The Patriot can reach a top speed of Mach 5, approximately 6,173 km/h, enabling it to quickly respond to airborne threats. Due to these characteristics, the Patriot air defense system is a key element of missile defense for its user countries, providing effective protection against ballistic missiles, combat aircraft, and other aerial threats.

The potential deployment of another Patriot air defense battery in Ukraine represents a crucial step in strengthening the country's defense capabilities. Ukraine is currently under a massive Russian assault near Kharkiv and urgently needs such systems to counter ongoing strikes and the offensive.