Short-form analytical briefs on current developments in CEE defence.
4 articles
Prague joins the F-35 club — what 24 jets mean for Visegrad air power
The Czech Republic's decision to procure 24 F-35A fighters, announced in 2023, makes it the second Visegrad state after Poland to acquire fifth-generation combat aircraft. A brief on the timeline, the politics, and what Czech F-35s add to regional air power.
How accession changed the alliance's northern geometry
Finland's NATO accession in April 2023 was the alliance's most significant enlargement since 2004. Two years on: what has changed in terms of operational planning, basing access, and the defence of the Nordic-Baltic region?
Europe's largest single F-35 order reshapes regional air superiority
Poland's 48-aircraft F-35A purchase, worth $4.6 billion, will give the Polish Air Force a fifth-generation stealth capability it currently lacks entirely. A brief on timing, basing, and strategic implications.
Closing the air defence gap on NATO's southern-eastern flank
Romania has activated two Patriot PAC-3 MSE batteries, purchased under the US Foreign Military Sales programme. With Russian missile and drone activity visible across the Black Sea, Bucharest is now negotiating a third battery and evaluating SHORAD options for layered coverage.