Analysis & Reports

The Finnish Defence Forces demonstrated autonomous systems developed by Patria at an event in Upinniemi, Finland, on 5 November. The event announced the establishment of an Unmanned Systems Company within the Coastal Brigade. A successful joint operation of unmanned systems operating at sea and in the air was showcased, highlighting the integration of these systems into naval defense.

USS Harry S. Truman (CVN-75) is undergoing a $5.1 billion refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH) after being awarded a contract on September 30, 2026. The carrier is expected to remain out of action until November 2031, impacting U.S. Navy operational capabilities. The overhaul follows a collision incident in February 2025, which resulted in command changes.

Thailand's Ministry of Defence is deploying the Arbel Anti-Drone System, a computerized rifle trigger designed to shoot down small drones. This system, developed by Israel Weapon Industries, aims to enhance soldiers' marksmanship and has been adopted by approximately 25 other countries. The Arbel system integrates a computer into the trigger mechanism of standard AR-15 rifles, allowing for improved targeting and firing rates against drone threats.

The Russian Navy has effectively decommissioned the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier and the Pyotr Velikiy battlecruiser, with both ships unlikely to return to service. The Admiral Kuznetsov has been in Murmansk since 2017, undergoing an overhaul that has faced numerous delays and accidents. The Pyotr Velikiy will not receive further modernization, reflecting the declining capabilities of the Russian Navy amid budget constraints exacerbated by the ongoing war in Ukraine.

A Polish-Korean joint venture has held a groundbreaking ceremony for a plant intended to manufacture CGR080 guided missiles in Poland.

MBDA and TERMA have joined forces to enhance their partnership in defense technology, building on a longstanding relationship. This collaboration was formalized through a cooperation agreement signed during the Eurosatory defense and security international exhibition.

Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) operates 12 Sōryū-class attack submarines, designed for defense in the First Island Chain. These submarines, commissioned between March 2009 and March 2021, feature advanced air-independent propulsion systems and are armed with Type 89 torpedoes and UGM-84 Harpoon missiles. The Sōryū-class enhances Japan's military capabilities in response to shifting global security dynamics.

Russia is transferring 90 missile launchers to Iran as part of a military cooperation agreement, announced on November 5, 2026. The specifics of the missile systems and the delivery timeline remain undisclosed. This transfer is viewed as a strategic move to enhance Iran's military capabilities amid ongoing regional conflicts.

Dmitri VolkovThu Nov 05 2026Loading...

The Russian Navy's flagship Pyotr Velikiy will not undergo modernization and is likely to be mothballed or scrapped due to budget constraints and significant deterioration. A commission has determined that the aging Kirov-class battlecruiser cannot be restored, while Admiral Nakhimov is expected to rejoin the fleet by the end of 2023 after completing sea trials. Analysts question the relevance of such Cold War-era vessels in contemporary naval operations.

Navantia and Fincantieri signed a Heads of Agreement in Paris on 4th November 2026 during the Euronaval event, establishing the priorities for their joint venture.

The Russian Navy accepted the final Improved Kilo-II-class submarine, Yakutsk, into service with the Pacific Fleet in June 2025. These submarines displace 3,950 tons submerged and can dive to 980 feet, equipped with 18 torpedoes or four Kalibr cruise missiles. They have been actively used in military operations, including attacks against Islamic State targets in Syria and Ukraine.

The China Coast Guard ship San Duo set sail from Sanya on November 5 for a friendly visit to Penang, Malaysia.

The Saudi-led coalition intercepted and destroyed a ballistic missile launched by Houthi forces towards the Medina region on the 5th. This action was confirmed by coalition spokesperson Turki Al-Maliki, with no immediate response from the Houthi side.

The EDGE Group successfully tested a 155mm artillery shell in the United Arab Emirates on November 3, 2026. This test, part of the HAZEEM program, aimed to enhance the UAE's defense independence by developing local ammunition production capabilities. The shell demonstrated accurate targeting and is intended to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers for military ammunition.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Nov 05 2026Loading...

China is conducting a naval surge with over 100 vessels and 21 to 22 military aircraft around Taiwan in 2026, practicing blockade tactics. This operation aims to create a perception of restricted access to Taiwan's waters without formally declaring a blockade. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is testing Taiwan's response capabilities and the reactions of the United States and regional allies.

Marcus ChenThu Nov 05 2026Loading...

Ukraine approved reforms on November 4, 2026, allowing private air-defense organizations to recruit personnel and deploy interceptor drones. This initiative aims to enhance air defense capabilities amid ongoing threats, with the Ukrainian Defence Ministry reporting over 8,000 neutralized Russian aerial targets in October. The reforms reflect a shift towards a distributed air defense model, integrating private units into national defense strategies.

Alexandra ReevesThu Nov 05 2026Loading...

Germany and the UK are preparing a joint plan to enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities in response to Russian drone and missile threats. This initiative aims to address Ukraine's shortage of modern air defense systems and improve coordination between European nations. The plan includes contributions from both countries in terms of equipment and operational support, emphasizing the need for a cohesive defense strategy.

Dr. Klaus WeberThu Nov 05 2026Loading...

The Nigerian Army engaged ISWAP fighters in Dumba on November 1, 2026, using indirect fire and 60 mm mortars. Three foreign fighters were confirmed killed, contributing to a total of 34 militants neutralized in recent operations. This operation highlights the ongoing military efforts against ISWAP in the Lake Chad region, where mobility and control of supply routes remain critical challenges.

Marie DuboisThu Nov 05 2026Loading...

Fincantieri unveiled the multi-mission modular vessel (MMMV) at Euronaval 2026, designed for six key naval missions including surveillance and strike operations. The 50-metre vessel features advanced technologies such as unmanned control and quantum technology, operates with a reduced crew of six, and can reach speeds of 23 knots with a range of 2,500 nautical miles. It is engineered for modularity, allowing for various mission configurations.

Hanwha WB Advanced System (HWBAS) broke ground on a new facility in Gorzów Wielkopolski on 4th November 2026 to enhance guided missile production capabilities in Poland.