Turkey has signed a memorandum of understanding with Syria to provide weapons, logistical support, and training for the Syrian army, amid ongoing tensions over the integration of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) into the Syrian government, with Turkey expressing impatience over the lack of implementation of previous agreements and warning of potential military action.
The French and UK naval chiefs emphasize the need for rapid innovation and adaptable warship designs to address evolving maritime threats. They highlight the importance of integrating new technologies like drones, AI, and hypersonic missiles, and stress closer collaboration with industry to accelerate development. The navies aim to detach operational capabilities from ship platforms, allowing for frequent updates to weapon systems, and are adapting to lessons learned from conflicts in the Black Sea and Red Sea.
South Korean defense stocks have experienced significant gains as tensions on the Korean Peninsula rise and global demand for weapon systems increases. Hanhwa Aerospace, a subsidiary of Hanhwa Group, saw a 66% rise in its stock price this year. South Korea has become a major exporter of military equipment, with exports totaling $17.9 billion in 2022. Notable weapons systems from South Korea include the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer, the K2 main battle tank, and the FA-50 light attack aircraft. Poland has placed orders for these systems, marking a new entrant into the European arms market. South Korea's defense industry is seeking to expand into other areas such as drones and unmanned vehicles.