Counter-Drone Sales: The US cleared a $1.98B counter-drone package for Kuwait, with Anduril set as principal contractor, as the Gulf state faces fallout from Iranian drone strikes. AI for Defense: Trump signed a national security directive pushing faster AI adoption across US military and intelligence, while stressing oversight and accountability for autonomous weapons. Long-Range Strike Boost: Denmark won a US green light for $842M in JASSM-ER cruise missiles to expand F-35 strike reach near Russia. Ukraine Aid Funding: NATO states are debating a potential €70B military support plan for Ukraine, aiming for a steadier, more transparent contribution model. Counter-Drone Tech Race: The US Army is accelerating low-cost interceptor drone development after Ukraine lessons, shifting toward scalable “attritable” defenses. UK Defense Readiness: The Royal Navy’s HMS Prince of Wales suffered another technical issue during a Norway port visit, raising questions about carrier availability. Defense Industry Deals: JWF Defense Systems landed $56M+ in new BAE contracts for combat-vehicle components, while TVS Supply Chain Solutions and Italy’s ALA Group formed a JV to target India’s aerospace and defense supply chain growth. Regional Flashpoints: Israel said it will keep pressing in southern Lebanon despite ceasefire talk conditions tied to Hezbollah withdrawal.