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.

The Global Satellite Market Forecast (2026-2036)

Global satellite market grows $55bn (2026) → $89.4bn (2036) (5% CAGR); $743.3bn cumulative Earth observation leads (59.1%); North America tops regions (55.9%) Defence/dual-use demand rises…
UK Boxer deliveries 16% complete; programme could finish mid‑2031

100th Boxer MIV delivered; 623 total on order across four variants Built in the UK (RBSL Telford, KNDS Stockport); procured…
British Army’s secretive new 4x4s revealed to be Toyota Hilux

UK MoD has confirmed Project Niala will deliver 270 Toyota Hilux Invincible X 4x4s to the British Army’s 11 Brigade…
British Army Pinzgauer could be maintained through to 2031

New MoD maintenance contract could keep Pinzgauer supported to May 2031, beyond its 2030 OSD Babcock (for MoD) awards Mitchell…
Forecasts: France defence market (2026–2035)

France’s defence budget is forecast to rise sharply through 2031 Acquisition in areas like munitions will increase significantly Eurosatory highlighted…

UK’s new soldier-worn counter-IED system not due until 2028

UK soldier-worn counter-IED system (Project Crenic) now due 2028, not 2026 £45m contract launched Oct 2022 with Team Protect to integrate new kit Delay means ~6…
UK MoD acquires 270 4x4s for special operations forces

• UK MoD has awarded a £19.7m ($26.1m) contract for 270 Recce Strike Vehicle 4x4s under Project Niala• The award…
UK does not have the money to ‘fix’ the DIP: NAD official

NAD chief: no money to fix the Defence Investment Plan—delays will fund priorities DIP is months late and squeezed from…
UK military chief signals cuts incoming in defence plan

UK military chief signals the Defence Investment Plan will mean cuts or delays to capabilities Savings likely come from slowing…
KNDS unveils new CAPINT main battle tank concept

KNDS unveiled the CAPINT MBT concept: Leopard 2A8-based with an uncrewed ASCALON 120mm turret Targeted for French/European needs in the…