DefenceTalkThree top European defence firms called Sunday on governments to launch a program to manufacture drones that European countries are currently having to buy from Israel or the United States. France’s Dassault Aviation, European aerospace giant EADS and Italy’s Finmeccanica argued such a joint program would “support the capability needs of European armed forces while […]https://www.defencetalk.com/defence-giants-call-for-european-drone-program-48116/

DefenceTalkFrance wants to buy 12 Reaper drones from the United States, Defence Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian said on Tuesday, as ministry officials put the cost at 670 million euros ($889 million). Le Drian said he wanted two Reapers to be deployed in sub-Saharan Africa, where France is battling Islamist militants in Mali. The 10 others […]https://www.defencetalk.com/france-keen-to-buy-12-us-reaper-drones-minister-48079/

DefenceTalkPulling the plug on Germany’s Euro Hawk project won’t have consequences for NATO’s surveillance program using “Global Hawk” models. But critics argue a joint European drone project would have been better. The canceled German Euro Hawk drone project will most likely not have consequences on a similar project by NATO. The alliance plans to use […]https://www.defencetalk.com/nato-drone-project-set-to-continue-47912/

DefenceTalkUS drone strikes in Pakistan have a “minimal” impact on militant recruitment, a respected think tank said Tuesday, contrary to arguments the controversial programme creates more extremists than it kills. The Brussels-based International Crisis Group (ICG) said however the missile strikes in Pakistan’s lawless tribal zones were not a long-term solution to militancy and urged […]https://www.defencetalk.com/minimal-drone-effects-on-pakistan-militant-recruits-icg-47850/

DefenceTalkDefense Secretary Chuck Hagel on Monday cancelled a new combat medal for US troops who launch drone strikes or cyber attacks after a torrent of criticism from veterans and lawmakers. Hagel opted to scrap the new “Distinguished Warfare Medal” for a pin or device that could be added to existing medals to recognize service members […]https://www.defencetalk.com/pentagon-calls-off-new-medal-for-drone-cyber-warriors-47504/

DefenceTalkAn Iranian fighter jet tried to intercept a US Predator drone over the Gulf but backed off after encountering two American military aircraft, the Pentagon said Thursday. No shots were fired in the confrontation Wednesday, officials said, but the United States renewed a vow that it would protect its forces in the region. The Pentagon […]https://www.defencetalk.com/iranian-fighter-tries-to-intercept-us-drone-in-gulf-us-47150/