“We will EXTEND the A-10 ‘Warthog’ platform to 2030,” Meink wrote on social media, adding the decision would help preserve combat capability while the defense industrial base ramps up aircraft production.

The A-10 Thunderbolt II, first introduced in 1976, had been scheduled for retirement by 2026. The aircraft has been actively deployed in recent operations involving Iran, with U.S. Central Command indicating its use against maritime targets in the Strait of Hormuz.

Long valued for its durability and powerful nose-mounted cannon designed for close air support, the A-10 has remained central to operations supporting ground troops. However, Air Force officials have repeatedly argued the platform is increasingly costly to maintain and less suited to modern warfare compared with newer systems.

Debate over the aircraft’s future has persisted for more than two decades, with proponents in Congress warning that retiring the fleet without a direct replacement could leave a critical gap in battlefield support. In 2021, Mark Kelly successfully pushed to block earlier retirement plans through defense legislation, citing the need to sustain the capability.

The largest share of the A-10 fleet is based at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base, where the aircraft contributes significantly to the local economy and employment.

While extending the platform ensures continued availability in current operations, Air Force officials have cautioned that maintaining the aging fleet places additional strain on maintenance resources needed for next-generation aircraft development.

The latest move underscores a continued balancing act between modernization priorities and immediate operational requirements.

The talks, described by the newspaper as preliminary and wide-ranging, involved companies such as General Motors, Ford Motor, GE Aerospace and Oshkosh, and began prior to the ongoing U.S. war with Iran, according to people familiar with the matter.

Defense officials raised the possibility that non-traditional manufacturers could support or supplement established defense contractors, including by rapidly transitioning portions of their production lines to military equipment and supplies, the report said.Reuters could not independently verify the discussions.

The companies named in the report did not immediately respond to requests for comment outside regular business hours.In a statement to Reuters, a Pentagon official said the Department of Defense is “committed to rapidly expanding the defense industrial base by leveraging all available commercial solutions and technologies to ensure our warfighters maintain a decisive advantage.

”The outreach comes as Washington faces growing pressure on its military inventories following sustained support for Ukraine after Russia’s 2022 invasion and ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza, alongside U.S. strikes in Iran.

These developments have led to the drawdown of billions of dollars’ worth of weapons stockpiles, including artillery systems, ammunition and anti-tank missiles.President Donald Trump earlier this month requested a $500 billion increase in the U.S. military budget, bringing the proposed total to $1.5 trillion, as part of a broader effort to strengthen defense capabilities during the conflict with Iran.

The Pentagon has also engaged directly with the defense industry, with Trump meeting executives from seven major defense contractors in March as officials explore options to accelerate production and rebuild inventories.

Speaking to German broadcaster ZDF, Zelensky said US negotiators, including Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, were heavily engaged in Middle East diplomacy, leaving limited bandwidth for advancing peace efforts in Ukraine.

He described both figures as “pragmatic” but indicated their current focus had shifted toward managing tensions involving Iran.Zelensky said that a lack of sustained US pressure on Moscow risks emboldening the Kremlin.

“If the United States does not put pressure on Putin and only engages in a gentle dialogue with the Russians, then they will no longer be afraid,” he said.Negotiations aimed at ending the war between Russia and Ukraine have stalled in recent weeks, with no direct talks reported since February meetings in Geneva.

The diplomatic slowdown coincides with the escalation of conflict in the Middle East in late March, which has drawn significant US strategic and military attention.Zelensky also highlighted disruptions in US arms deliveries to Ukraine, calling the situation “a big problem,” particularly in the supply of air defense systems.

He pointed to shortages in PAC-3 and PAC-2 interceptor missiles, which are critical for countering aerial threats.According to Zelensky, these systems are largely procured through the PURL program, a mechanism established last year that allows European countries to finance US military equipment for Ukraine.

He said deliveries under the program had slowed, creating operational challenges for Ukrainian forces.“At the very beginning of the war in the Middle East we understood that we can have challenges,” Zelensky said, adding that the delays have placed Ukraine in a “very difficult position.”

Later in Norway, Zelensky met Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store, where the two countries signed a joint declaration aimed at enhancing defense and security cooperation. The agreement includes plans to expand collaboration between defense industries and initiate production of Ukrainian drones in Norway.

Earlier in the day, Zelensky led a delegation to Berlin for talks with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and senior officials.

The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral defense ties and advancing a broader strategic partnership amid the protracted conflict with Russia, now in its fifth year.

The move, announced by Defense Ministry Director General Amir Baram, will redirect procurement spending toward domestic suppliers and allied countries, according to an Israeli defense spokeswoman.

Policy rift deepensIsrael said the decision was in response to several French actions, including recognition of a Palestinian state, exclusion of Israeli firms from defense exhibitions, and a ban on Israeli aircraft carrying munitions for operations against Iran from transiting French airspace.

“The French ban was imposed despite prior coordination,” the spokeswoman said, adding that Israel viewed the measures as harmful to bilateral defense cooperation.

France’s presidency said its position was consistent with its policy since the start of the conflict, after U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Paris for not allowing Israel-bound military flights to cross its airspace.

According to a French parliamentary report, Israel’s procurement from French defense firms totaled about $260 million between 2015 and 2024, primarily involving components rather than complete weapons systems.

France does not directly export arms to Israel but supplies parts used in broader defense production chains.

The decision signals a further deterioration in defense ties between the two countries as the regional conflict intensifies following a military campaign launched by the United States and Israel against Iran on Feb. 28.

Israel’s defense ministry said it viewed the developments “with great severity,” warning of potential long-term impacts on strategic cooperation.

The development follows detailed discussions in parliament, where lawmakers have emphasized the need to modernize export rules without undermining Switzerland’s role as a responsible and stable actor in international security.

The lower house recently approved the proposed legal adjustments, opening the way for more flexibility in how export decisions are made.

The upper house is expected to vote on the measure shortly, and political observers believe it is likely to move forward given the broad recognition of the pressures facing the domestic industry.

Under current rules, Switzerland blocks weapons exports to countries engaged in internal or external conflicts or accused of serious human rights violations.

These restrictions have long shaped the nation’s cautious approach, ensuring that Swiss-made equipment is not used to escalate regional tensions or contribute to humanitarian risks.

Even under the revised framework, direct exports to active conflict zones, including Ukraine, will remain prohibited.

Officials have repeatedly underscored that this safeguard will not change, reaffirming Switzerland’s commitment to preventing the misuse of its manufactured systems.

The proposed adjustments shift greater discretion to the Federal Council, allowing it to evaluate specific cases where easing restrictions may reduce the risk of indirect or unintended supply to conflict-linked regions.

This approach is designed to provide flexibility during exceptional circumstances while keeping ethical and diplomatic considerations at the center of decision-making.

The amendment originally proposed earlier this year includes mechanisms that allow temporary exceptions when strategic or economic conditions demand it.

Swiss leaders have described this as a pragmatic middle path that strengthens oversight while providing industry partners with clearer expectations.

Supporters of the reform argue that Swiss manufacturers have been placed at a competitive disadvantage due to the country’s highly restrictive rules.

They note that several European partners allow more tailored export decisions, enabling their industries to maintain long-term contracts and international collaborations.

Swiss companies warn that without regulatory adjustments, production chains, research capabilities, and high-skilled jobs could come under increasing pressure.

The new law aims to address these concerns without diluting Switzerland’s moral and political obligations.

Balancing neutrality with industry stability has been a recurring challenge for the country.

By refining the export framework instead of abandoning restrictions altogether, policymakers say they are protecting both ethical standards and economic vitality.

The process reflects Switzerland’s broader strategy of adapting to evolving geopolitical realities while maintaining credibility in global diplomacy.

The proposal has also sparked discussions among civil society groups, some of which may push for a referendum if the reform is officially approved.

Public debate remains focused on ensuring that any change continues to uphold Switzerland’s humanitarian values and international commitments.

If adopted, the revised law would take effect in a phased manner, allowing regulators time to implement oversight procedures, strengthen transparency measures, and update compliance checks for manufacturers.

The government has said it plans to keep monitoring outcomes closely to ensure the system remains aligned with Switzerland’s neutral identity.

As Switzerland moves forward, the emphasis on responsibility, controlled flexibility, and stable economic policy has positioned the reform as a step intended to support national interests without compromising long-held principles.

Despite potential disruptions, industry experts and officials in Seoul remain confident that this challenge will further strengthen South Korea’s leadership and resilience in global shipbuilding partnerships.

The sanctions, announced by Beijing earlier this week, coincide with ongoing trade discussions between the U.S. and China. Yet rather than dampening Seoul’s ambitions, the development has reinforced South Korea’s determination to deepen technological collaboration and secure new global markets for its advanced shipbuilding capabilities.

Officials in Seoul emphasized that the country’s $150 billion investment plan to support U.S. shipbuilding remains a cornerstone of cooperation between the two allies.

The initiative, which aligns with U.S. President Donald Trump’s “Make America Shipbuilding Great Again” campaign, underscores South Korea’s vital role in revitalizing the global maritime industry through innovation, sustainability, and joint ventures.

Seok Jong-gun, Minister of the Defense Procurement Program Administration, acknowledged potential logistical challenges but expressed optimism about the broader picture.

“This is an opportunity to strengthen our technological independence and enhance production networks between South Korea and its international partners,” he said. “The goal is not only to maintain operations but to modernize and diversify the global supply chain.”

Hanwha Ocean, one of the world’s leading shipbuilders, has long been recognized for its commitment to next-generation shipbuilding technologies, from eco-friendly vessel designs to smart automation systems.

Its shipyard in Shandong, China, manufactures key modules that are later assembled in South Korea, demonstrating the firm’s integrated global approach. Despite the temporary setback, Hanwha’s management reaffirmed its dedication to maintaining seamless operations and global partnerships.

A spokesperson for Hanwha USA stated: “We are carefully reviewing the details of the sanctions, but our commitment to providing world-class maritime services remains unchanged.

Through ongoing investment in the U.S. maritime industry and our operations at Hanwha Philly Shipyard, we continue to advance technological excellence and support our international clients.”

Industry analysts view this moment as a potential catalyst for innovation. By encouraging South Korea to strengthen alternative supply routes and expand domestic production, the situation could accelerate technological growth and economic diversification.

Several experts believe it will also prompt greater collaboration between South Korea, the U.S., and European partners in building next-generation naval and commercial vessels.

Philly Shipyard, acquired by Hanwha in 2024, stands at the forefront of this transformation. It symbolizes the synergy between South Korean technology and American industrial heritage — a partnership designed to create sustainable jobs, develop green technologies, and rebuild U.S. shipbuilding competitiveness.

Even as the sanctions pose short-term challenges, they also highlight how deeply interconnected the two nations’ industrial futures have become.

Global observers note that China’s decision may ultimately elevate South Korea’s strategic standing. By maintaining a calm and proactive approach, Seoul has demonstrated diplomatic maturity and economic foresight.

Moreover, the situation underscores the strength of the South Korea-U.S. alliance, which continues to serve as a model for resilient cooperation in a shifting global economy.

The U.S. State Department’s statement calling China’s move “irresponsible” further reinforced international confidence in South Korea’s partnership-driven approach. It emphasized that coercive actions cannot deter progress in industries essential to global innovation and sustainability.

Ultimately, South Korea’s shipbuilding vision — rooted in excellence, innovation, and international collaboration — remains on course. As global maritime needs evolve, the nation is poised to lead the way in smart, sustainable shipbuilding, transforming challenges into opportunities for global growth.

Through resilience, foresight, and strong partnerships, South Korea continues to shape the future of the maritime world — proving once again that innovation and unity can turn obstacles into stepping stones toward a stronger, greener global economy.

JPMorgan Chase has announced an ambitious plan to invest up to $10 billion in U.S. companies vital to national security and economic resilience, marking one of the largest private-sector initiatives focused on strengthening America’s strategic industries.

This decade-long commitment forms part of the bank’s broader $1.5 trillion pledge to support sectors that are critical to the nation’s growth and long-term stability.

The initiative will focus on four core areas — supply chain and manufacturing, defense and aerospace, energy independence, and advanced frontier technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing.

Through this effort, JPMorgan aims to build a more resilient U.S. economy that can withstand global disruptions while maintaining technological leadership.

JPMorgan’s announcement comes at a time when the U.S. government is placing renewed emphasis on bolstering domestic production and reducing reliance on foreign supply chains, particularly in sectors like semiconductors, pharmaceuticals, and clean energy.

The move also aligns with national efforts to strengthen economic security amid rising geopolitical tensions and trade disputes with countries such as China.

CEO Jamie Dimon made it clear that the initiative is entirely JPMorgan-driven and “100% commercial,” distancing it from any direct political influence. “This is a JPMorgan initiative,” Dimon told reporters during a press call.

“America needs more speed and investment. We’ve allowed ourselves to become too dependent on unreliable sources for critical minerals, products, and manufacturing. It’s time to fix that.” His remarks highlighted a growing recognition that economic resilience and national security are deeply interconnected.

The $10 billion will be deployed through direct equity and venture capital investments, targeting both large corporations and middle-market companies.

By supporting businesses at different scales, JPMorgan hopes to build a broad industrial base that strengthens domestic innovation and production. The bank also plans to establish an external advisory council composed of leaders from both the public and private sectors to guide the program’s direction.

Mary Erdoes, CEO of JPMorgan’s asset and wealth management business, and Doug Petno, Co-CEO of commercial and investment banking, will lead the initiative. Both are widely seen as potential successors to Dimon and are expected to play a key role in shaping the bank’s long-term vision for economic leadership. JPMorgan also plans to hire more bankers and investment professionals to support this growing effort.

The “security and resiliency initiative,” as the bank calls it, reflects a broader trend among U.S. financial institutions to align their investment strategies with national priorities. However, analysts note that JPMorgan’s scale and structure make this initiative stand out. “This is different in magnitude and time commitment,” said Mike Mayo, an analyst at Wells Fargo. “It represents a newer direction for sustainability and long-term economic planning.”

Other major banks have also financed defense, energy, and advanced manufacturing projects, but JPMorgan’s approach integrates these efforts under one cohesive framework. According to Michael Ashley Schulman, partner and chief investment officer at Running Point Capital Advisors, “JPMorgan stitched together an ocean of existing credit into one big patriotic umbrella. It’s both symbolic and strategic — a move that builds goodwill with the administration and the business community alike.”

The initiative will also expand JPMorgan’s research capabilities. The bank’s newly launched Center for Geopolitics will study supply chain vulnerabilities, global market risks, and emerging technologies that could redefine national competitiveness.

By combining financial expertise with geopolitical insight, JPMorgan aims to stay ahead of shifting economic landscapes.

This announcement comes as the U.S. pursues deals across nearly 30 industries considered vital to national or economic security. JPMorgan has already played a key role in structuring partnerships, including the government’s deal with MP Materials, a U.S.-based rare earth mining company essential to defense and tech manufacturing.

Andrew Castaldo, co-head of mid-cap mergers and acquisitions at JPMorgan, noted that the bank has fielded “no less than 100 calls from clients” to explore similar opportunities.

Dimon also used the occasion to call for policy changes that could accelerate progress. He pointed to regulatory delays, talent shortages, and infrastructure bottlenecks as key barriers to faster growth.

“America has always been strongest when it moves decisively,” he said. “We need more investment, more innovation, and more partnership between the private sector and government.”

By identifying 27 sub-sectors — ranging from shipbuilding and nuclear energy to nanomaterials and secure communications — JPMorgan’s plan demonstrates a granular understanding of the industries that will define America’s future.

The firm’s investment is expected to stimulate job creation, technological development, and industrial modernization across the country.

Shares of JPMorgan rose more than 2% following the announcement, signaling investor confidence in the bank’s long-term vision.

The market response suggests that aligning profit-driven strategy with national priorities can create a powerful narrative of responsible capitalism — one that not only delivers shareholder value but also contributes to national stability.

In many ways, JPMorgan’s new initiative represents a defining moment for the U.S. financial sector. It bridges the gap between Wall Street’s commercial ambitions and Main Street’s strategic needs, offering a blueprint for how financial power can reinforce national resilience.

As the global economy grows increasingly uncertain, such forward-looking commitments may well shape the next era of American economic leadership — one built on strength, innovation, and security.