Defence
South Korea is up in arms – and that’s a good thing for European defences
For the average European, South Korea is better known for its entertainment and technology industries than for its defence sector. But that familiarity with K-pop, LG appliances or Hyundai cars is about to extend…
Opinion
Latest in Monocle Radio
Latest
How Finland’s multi-billion icebreaker deal with the US could leave the country in a frosty spot
A landmark US partnership puts Finland’s world-leading icebreaker in the spotlight. As its shipyards gear up for billions in orders, questions remain over politics, dependency and who is truly at the helm.
Why Pete Hegseth’s ‘no rules of engagement’ approach could turn the US military into a Russian-style force
As Trump’s allies call for an end to “political correctness” in warfare, former Nato commander Ben Hodges warns that scrapping rules of engagement would edge US military closer to the lawlessness it condemns.
No one asked for Trump’s troops but maybe they’ll do some good
While president Trump’s despotic crime crackdown draws scrutiny, deploying troops on US soil is hardly unprecedented. For local officials, perhaps the presence of guardsmen might also provide a chance to tap federal resources.
EOS and DroneShield step up as European drone threats drive global demand for air defence tech
With drone warfare proliferating across the globe, one company in Australia has excelled at creating anti-drone systems – saving lives every day while learning from soldiers on Ukraine’s front line.
Taiwan struggles to fill military ranks as China ramps up regional threats
Taiwan is racing to fortify itself against the possibility of conflict with China. Fighter jets roar across the divide, new weapons deals are signed and the defence budget keeps on climbing – but Taiwan…
Bad news for Russian submarines: Starmer is a savvy salesman
The agreement under which the UK will supply Norway with at least five warships over the coming decade gives every appearance of being a win-win outcome. Type 26 frigates will significantly reinforce the ability…
How can today’s military recruitment strategies win over a generation that won’t fight?
With global defence forces struggling to fill their ranks, Monocle explores the bold, surprising and sometimes strange tactics being used to recruit Gen Z.
The hidden threat to Europe’s defence is its own broken bridges and red tape
From weak bridges to cross-border delays, Europe’s transport systems are undermining Nato’s ability to defend its eastern flank. The race is on to build a military network that actually works.
How Ukranian startup Himera built a war-ready radio during a blackout
Growing out of co-founder Misha Rudominski’s previous projects, the defence-tech company develops electronic warfare-resistant walkie-talkies while the country fights to preserve its sovereignty.
Ten disruptors taking aim at modern warfare
As global alliances shift and technology redefines the battlefield, Europe’s defence industry is stepping up to offer smart new solutions. Here are a few of the innovations currently on our radar.
