Hungary Strengthens Defence Sector with New Industry Giant

The 4iG Group and the Hungarian state-owned N7 Holding are jointly establishing Hungary’s first defence industry holding company with both state and private ownership. The new company is expected to boost competitiveness and increase defence exports.

Hungary and Uzbekistan Sign Defence Cooperation Agreement

In a historic first, Hungary’s defence minister visited Uzbekistan to sign a new agreement marking the start of deeper military cooperation. The visit underscores Hungary’s interest in regional stability and stronger ties in Central Asia.

Hungary Expands Defence Ties with Türkiye

Hungary and Türkiye expand defence cooperation by establishing a Defence Innovation Working Group, aiming to accelerate joint research and development projects, as well as educational and training programmes between the two countries.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, Viktor Orbán and President of the European Council Charles Michel (L-R) in Budapest at the conclusion of the informal summit of EU leaders on 8 November 2024.

The Budapest Declaration on Competitiveness — New Opportunities for the European Defence Sector

One of the most pressing issues in enhancing the competitiveness of Europe is the need to optimize defence spending. Europeans now spend much more on defence in the wake of Vladimir Putin’s invasion of Ukraine, with ten European NATO members set to reach the 2 per cent of GDP spending threshold by the end of 2024. However, developing and acquiring modern weapon systems of cutting-edge technology demand an exponential level of spending for development and production, which can hamstring the capabilities of nation-states if they want to fit out their armies fully with domestically produced equipment, from building tools to jet fighters.

A new Gidrán combat vehicle at the Armoured Brigade in Tata, Hungary on 5 November 2024

Hungary’s Defence Force Development Progresses with Expanded Fleet

Hungary is on track to establish a fully modernized and re-equipped military force, Defence Minister Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky affirmed during a significant milestone of the Defence Development Programme. Speaking at the MH Klapka György Armoured Brigade base on 5 November, Szalay-Bobrovniczky marked the full deployment of the Gidrán combat vehicle fleet, signifying enhanced operational readiness and security capabilities for Hungary in light of ongoing regional conflicts.

Defence Minister: More and More Volunteer for Territorial Defence Reserves

In 2016 the Hungarian government embarked on a military development programme driven by the need for a strong military capable of protecting the lives, property, and culture of Hungarian citizens, as well as fulfilling the country’s NATO obligations. The setting up of the Territorial Defence Forces Command was part of this effort.