Kuwait Air Defense Upgrade: After an Iranian drone strike hit Kuwait International Airport, the US approved about $1.98B in counter-drone systems for Kuwait, with Anduril’s package aimed at layered detection and kinetic defeat. Regional Security Shock: The US and Iran exchanged strikes after a US Apache helicopter crash near the Strait of Hormuz, with Iran claiming attacks on Kuwait and Bahrain and Kuwait reporting air-defense engagement of hostile aerial targets. Power Infrastructure: Kuwait’s Central Agency for Public Tenders asked Sabiya Phase 4 bidders to extend bid bonds while evaluating the combined-cycle expansion adding ~900MW. Energy Projects: L&T won a KD303.5M ($992M) Kuwait Oil Company contract for export crude storage and upgrades. Digital Services: PAHW and CIT reviewed the “Wasel” platform, using AI to classify and route citizen requests for faster government responses. Fintech & Crime Tech: Kuwait’s Financial Intelligence Unit said it’s boosting technical capabilities and partnerships to tackle money laundering and terrorism financing amid rising digital tools. AI in Retail (Gulf): Visa’s Qatar study found 90% use AI for shopping, but only 23% trust AI agents to complete checkout. Logistics Real Estate (GCC): GFH Bank and OCTO plan a $300M logistics/industrial platform across Saudi Arabia and the UAE. Youth & Career Tech: Namaa launched the “Compass” initiative and Volunteer Center to help young Kuwaitis choose study and career paths.