Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy announced the establishment of a new Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager for Robotic and Autonomous Systems (DRPM RAS) in Washington. Chris Miller will act in this role to streamline the development and acquisition of robotic and autonomous systems, responding to the need for faster decision-making and accountability. The Navy is also reviewing the potential relocation of DRPM RAS staff to enhance collaboration with operational forces.

Lt. Gen. Daniel Lasica assumed command of US Air Forces Central at Shaw Air Force Base on Tuesday, overseeing air operations in the Middle East during the ongoing conflict with Iran. The command has faced significant challenges, including the loss of 18 troops and key aircraft, as well as a critical shortage of missile interceptors. Lasica's leadership comes at a time when airpower is expected to play a crucial role in potential escalations in military action against Iran.

The U.S. Army implemented new policies in April 2025 that end anonymous reporting for harassment complaints, allowing only confidential reports. Commanders are granted increased authority to dismiss complaints, aiming to reduce formal complaints and resolve disputes efficiently. The changes also redefine bullying and hazing, including actions on social media.

Denmark initiated extended military conscription with 1,600 recruits starting an 11-month service period. The country plans to include women in conscription in 2024 and aims to increase annual conscript numbers to 7,500 by 2033. Conscripts will be deployed to Greenland for operational tasks, marking a significant shift in Denmark's military readiness in response to Arctic security pressures and the war in Ukraine.

Cmdr. Joseph Sammur was relieved of his command of the USS West Virginia on July 30, 2025, due to a loss of confidence in his leadership. Cmdr. Luke Kelvington has been appointed as the interim commander of the submarine's Blue Crew. The USS West Virginia, an Ohio-class ballistic missile submarine, is currently undergoing maintenance at its home port in Kings Bay, Georgia.

The U.S. Army's 4th Infantry Division tested the EPIQ hybrid power system at Fort Irwin during Project Convergence Capstone 6, allowing command posts to operate silently on battery power for up to eight hours. This innovation reduces both acoustic and thermal signatures, enhancing operational security. The exercise is part of the Army's Next Generation Command and Control initiative, aimed at modernizing battlefield operations.

The Air Force Aviation Unit conducted a simulated response to enemy aircraft intrusion, successfully driving away the intruders. During a subsequent live exercise, a young officer misjudged the situation, resulting in a tactical setback. However, he later led an independent command operation from an early warning aircraft, identifying low-altitude threats and directing a successful counterattack against enemy positions in the D3 airspace.

The U.S. Senate confirmed Jules 'Jay' Hurst as Pentagon comptroller, allowing him to oversee defense budgets and spending plans, including significant funding for Iran. The Senate also approved Erich Hernandez-Baquero as the Air Force assistant secretary for space acquisition and Roger Mason to lead the National Reconnaissance Office. Hurst emphasized his commitment to improving financial management and transparency in military operations.

The U.S. Senate advanced the confirmation of numerous Pentagon nominees, including Jules Hurst as comptroller, who emphasized financial oversight priorities. Erich Hernandez-Baquero was nominated for Air Force space acquisition, while Roger Mason is set to lead the National Reconnaissance Office. Defense Secretary Hegseth projected significant costs for military operations in Iran.

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division are deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border and will reside in new 3D-printed barracks at Fort Bliss, Texas. The barracks, which can accommodate 560 troops, were officially opened on Tuesday as part of a $62.8 million construction project. This initiative aims to provide energy-resilient housing close to essential facilities for transient soldiers.

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division are deployed to the U.S.-Mexico border and will reside in new 3D-printed barracks at Fort Bliss, Texas. The barracks, which can accommodate 560 troops, were officially opened on Tuesday as part of a $62.8 million construction project. This initiative aims to provide energy-resilient housing close to essential facilities for transient soldiers.

Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced the expansion of military operations in the West Bank on July 28, 2023, instructing the Israeli Defense Forces to prepare for the takeover of a Palestinian refugee camp and the forced evacuation of its residents. This operation will be similar to previous actions taken in Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams. Additionally, Katz stated plans to expand Jewish settlements in the West Bank and confirmed that the IDF will maintain its presence in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon.

The U.S. Navy revised its transfer policy, mandating that sailors under investigation for sexual assault or stalking be transferred only to shore commands. This decision follows the murder of Petty Officer 3rd Class Angelina Resendiz, prompting a review of procedures to enhance safety and coordination among military authorities. Jermiah Copeland was sentenced to 44 years for her murder, highlighting the need for stricter oversight in such cases.

On July 23, President Trump nominated Lt. Gen. Kevin D. Admiral to command U.S. Army Europe-Africa and NATO Allied Land Command in Germany, replacing Gen. Christopher Donahue. Admiral's appointment as a three-star officer for a role that has recently been four-star raises concerns about U.S. commitment to NATO, especially amid ongoing tensions with Russia. He will inherit the Eastern Flank Deterrence Initiative, aimed at improving NATO's land force integration and readiness against potential threats.

Alexandra ReevesSat Jul 25 2026Loading...

The Pentagon nominated Lt. Gen. Kevin D. Admiral to command U.S. Army Europe and Africa, succeeding Gen. Christopher Donahue, who stepped down unexpectedly. Admiral, currently the commander of III Corps at Fort Hood, Texas, would also lead NATO’s Allied Land Command if confirmed. Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie is currently acting commander following Donahue's departure.

Echodyne announced the integration of its MESA radar systems with the ATAK software, enhancing situational awareness for military and public safety operations. This integration allows users to access radar data directly within the ATAK interface, improving operational efficiency. The MESA radars are noted for being smaller and more cost-effective compared to traditional military radar systems, making them suitable for tracking drones and other fast-moving threats.

NODA AI secured a $10 million contract from the Department of War to develop software enabling military drones to operate effectively despite communication disruptions. This initiative is part of the Multi-Domain Collaborative Autonomy program, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of various unmanned platforms. The software will ensure that drones can maintain a commander's intent even under jamming or cyberattack conditions, advancing the integration of autonomous systems across different domains.

The 72nd Group Army of the People's Liberation Army conducted amphibious training exercises on the Southeast Coast, involving dozens of amphibious armored vehicles. The training focused on realistic scenarios such as beach landings and wave formations, with soldiers enduring high temperatures and humidity. This exercise aimed to enhance combat readiness in challenging conditions.

The U.S. Army is conducting tests of its Next Generation Command and Control (NGC2) architecture in the Mojave Desert from July 20-29, 2023, involving 9,700 soldiers. This exercise aims to evaluate the system's performance in extreme heat and challenging terrain, with the 4th Infantry Division leading the effort. The outcomes will guide future equipment procurement and operational strategies.

Col. Brian Diehl and Col. Lawrence Sullivan were fired from their positions in the Wyoming Air National Guard on July 17 due to a loss of confidence in their leadership. The 153rd Airlift Wing, which operates C-130Js, is the only flying wing in Wyoming. Brig. Gen. Barry Deibert stated that Air National Guard leaders must uphold high standards of conduct and accountability.