Main headlines from this issue

As war in Ukraine persists, Czech Republic races to amend procurement policy

Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine has prompted the Czech Republic to review its industrial participation guidelines, a senior military official informed CTO. The amendments will guide the country’s defence procurement priorities and industry development until 2030.

War in Ukraine reboots Turkish industry cooperation with western partners

Turkey’s balancing act between Moscow and Washington has tilted westward. Following Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine, Turkey has closed the door on Russian defence companies and turned to industry partners in Europe and the United States, marking a substantial change in the country’s defence industrial strategy.

Localisation is king at Saudi Arabia’s World Defence Show

The inaugural World Defence Show saw the signing of 22 industrial partnerships with domestic and international defence companies, the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI) announced on 7 March. The partnerships totalled SR8bn ($2.13bn) worth of deals, covering direct purchase of military systems, building of production lines, knowledge transfer, and localisation.

US approves major amendment to Buy American Act, includes phased requirements and alternate content tests

The Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR) has adopted a new rule to boost domestic manufacturing in federal procurements. The rule increases domestic content requirements and imposes price preferences for US components. But the amendment differs significantly from the original proposal.

China to assist Saudi Arabia in building homemade drones

China and Saudi Arabia have agreed to manufacture unmanned aircraft payload systems in the Kingdom with technology transfer.

Germany does about-face, to buy F-35 jets and Eurofighters

Germany has announced its intention to purchase 35 F-35 jets and 15 Eurofighter Typhoons. The country has reaffirmed its commitment to joint European projects, but the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) has stalled in recent months.