Read more about the article IDEX 2021: Between COVID-19 Restrictions and New Technologies
Victor Besa - The National

IDEX 2021: Between COVID-19 Restrictions and New Technologies

Last February, the 15th edition of the International Defence Exhibition and Conference (IDEX) opened in Abu Dhabi, representing one of the most important military exhibitions in the region and one of the first relevant events in the post-pandemic recovery period. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the event was characterised by strict safety measures to ensure both exhibitors and attendees' well-being.

Comments Off on IDEX 2021: Between COVID-19 Restrictions and New Technologies
Read more about the article Laser Weapons in International Humanitarian Law: Opportunities and Challenges
Wikimedia Commons

Laser Weapons in International Humanitarian Law: Opportunities and Challenges

Laser and directed energy weapons always seemed to belong to the future. However, in 2021, these weapons are increasingly being integrated into the arsenals of several states. In recent decades, multiple arms manufacturers have been researching and developing directed energy and laser weapons and, nowadays, they are steadily becoming more operational. Lockheed Martin, for instance, has stated that its directed energy technology is ready to be deployed by 2021. In this vein, Lockheed Martin announced in January 2021 that one of its laser weapon systems would be operationally integrated into the U.S. Navy.

Comments Off on Laser Weapons in International Humanitarian Law: Opportunities and Challenges

European Defence Fund: Time to Shine

In the wake of the European Council's discussion on the 26th of February regarding the future of EU security and defence, a decisive juncture to assess the stature of EU defence cooperation lies ahead. The EU pledges to deliver a collective answer to a fast-changing strategic environment and maintain momentum on its defence initiatives. Among its initiatives, the European Defence Fund (EDF) aims to boost joint research and innovation in defence and stimulate Member States industrial bases to develop common military capabilities. The EDF has officially come into effect with the new Multi-Annual Financial Framework (MFF) 2021-2027, empowered with a total budget of € 8 billion; thus, it is time to demonstrate its potential.

Comments Off on European Defence Fund: Time to Shine
Read more about the article The European Deterrence Initiative
Piqsels

The European Deterrence Initiative

The European Deterrence Initiative (EDI), announced by the United States (U.S.) in 2014, reflects changes in the international security environment. It aims to help Eastern European allies deter Russia from further incursion into Europe following its annexation —in violation of international law— of Crimea from Ukraine and its continued military activity in the region.

Comments Off on The European Deterrence Initiative