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.

Forecasts: Oman defence market

Oman’s defence budget is set to climb to $11.78bn by 2031 2026 Iran strikes are driving a push for stronger…
Forecasts: United States defence market

GlobalData: US defence budget could rise from $1.05trn (2026) towards $1.5trn to maintain edge vs China/Russia Earlier outlook: ~3.4% CAGR to ~$1.72trn by 2031,…
UK Type 32 frigate: a forlorn hope destined for the axe

Type 32 stalled: announced in 2020, later pitched as an MCM “mothership,” but still only a concept Commitment fading: 2025–26 answers stress…
UK Type 31 frigate redesign leads to £140m charge

Design changes on Type 31 ships 1–2 are causing extra rework and higher costs Babcock will take a £140m contract…
Forecasts: Saudi Arabia’s defence market

Saudi Arabia buys major US/European defence systems Defence spending is rising again, boosted by conflict and oil revenue Iran threats…

UK Defence Secretary throws support behind Starmer

Healey backs Starmer amid Labour revolt, urging stability UK convenes 40 ministers to push a Hormuz maritime security mission Possible…
Australian Mogami-class frigates to receive SeaRAM missile system

Raytheon will supply SeaRAM for the first three Royal Australian Navy Mogami-class frigates under an MHI contract First time SeaRAM…
Taiwan defence budget to near 10% growth over next five years

Budget boost: $32.4bn in 2026; projected $46.9bn by 2031; defence spend rises from ~4% of GDP to >5% China-focused posture: Maintains conscription…
Ukraine wants 15,000 recruits to help create drone ‘kill zone’

Ukraine seeks 15,000 recruits for drone-focussed units to build a 10–15 km “kill zone” along the front. The Drone Line project is now part of the Unmanned…
Country analysis: Qatar defence market

Qatar is a major GCC defence buyer; budget is ~$17bn (2026) and forecast ~$20.8bn by 2031 Security concerns—especially Iran—and defence…