US military casualties in the Iran conflict have risen to 17, with recent fatalities occurring during explosive ordnance disposal in Iraq amid escalating retaliatory strikes.
Germany will boost its defense budget to a record €124.7 billion in 2026, increasing its NATO commitments amid broader European military spending shifts.
Germany's 2027 budget plans a 6% spending increase with record defense funding and higher borrowing, sparking industry concerns over economic growth and fiscal discipline.
Latvian President Edgars Rinkēvičs calls on NATO to prepare for potential escalation with Russia, highlighting the need for enhanced military capabilities and stronger transatlantic defense cooperation.
German and US foreign ministers met in Washington to reinforce their partnership, discuss NATO contributions, support for Ukraine, and regional cooperation ahead of key international summits.
The UK government plans to increase its defense budget by £18 billion amid political challenges, impacting defense firms and strategic corporate decision-making.
The US State Department approved the potential $373.6M sale of JDAM-ER bomb kits to Ukraine, enhancing range and accuracy amid operational challenges and strategic defense implications.