All articles by Richard Thomas

Richard Thomas

Richard is editor-in-chief for defence and transport at GlobalData. He has worked the UK defence beat since 2014, and previously the defence and diplomatic beats in Muscat, Oman, from 2008-2013.

US midterms: Trump class, F-47, Golden Dome, and budgets

The $1.54 trillion FY2027 defence budget request faces delays and tighter scrutiny The Trump-class battleship could be cut, while Golden…
Forecasts: Global tactical communications market (2026–2036)

Valued at $16.2bn in 2026, the sector will grow at a 7.6% CAGR, generating a cumulative $259.6 billion over the…
Project Grayburn: UK SA80 replacement remains in concept

Defence Readiness Minister Luke Pollard confirmed the MoD is still defining the scope, requirements, and procurement model for Project Grayburn…
Local production underway for Norway’s future Leopard 2A8 fleet

Norway will acquire 54 Leopard 2A8 MBTs to boost its armoured force KNDS Deutschland is producing the first 17 as…
Demand signal: SWEBAL on Western energetics needs

Rising demand is straining supplies of TNT, RDX, and nitrocellulose Upstream energetics production is limiting ammunition output Long-term contracts and…

AUSA 2026: raucous scenes as protesters disrupt keynote panel

Demonstrators interrupted the AUSA 2026 panel to protest the war in Gaza, sparking counter-chants from delegates Pentagon plans to establish…
AUSA 2026: heavy armour out, drones and mobility in

Light 4x4 squad vehicles and drone launchers took center stage at AUSA 2026 Western doctrine is treating low-cost strike drones…
INEOS’ Grenadier 4×4 selected by Austria and Italy

Austria and Italy order INEOS Grenadier; Austria opts for the protected version Deliveries start in 2026 (Austria) and 2027 (Italy);…
Forecasts: Global military ammunition market (2026–2036)

Market to more than double: $34.2bn (2026) to $75.7bn (2036) (8.3% CAGR) North America leads (39.5%), ahead of Europe (33.8%)…
Which teams are left in the UK’s Light Mobility Vehicle programme?

The MoD has reportedly downselected seven teams for the Army’s £2bn LMV programme Several bidders and platforms have emerged via…