Analysis & Reports

The CIA procured high-grade titanium from the Soviet Union through shell companies in the 1960s for the construction of the SR-71 Blackbird. The aircraft, primarily made of titanium, was designed to withstand extreme temperatures while flying at high speeds. Much of the titanium ore came from Soviet Ukraine, and the procurement process involved a covert network to avoid detection by the Soviets. A total of 32 SR-71s were built, reflecting the significant engineering challenges faced during the program.

Russia continues to modernize its fleet of Tu-160 bombers, having built approximately four new aircraft since 2015. The Tu-160, capable of carrying up to 12 cruise missiles, remains a key strategic asset for the Russian Air Force. Production is hampered by slow engine manufacturing and modernization efforts, but the aircraft's capabilities have been enhanced with new avionics and engines.

The Soviet Navy operated six Typhoon-class submarines from 1981 until the last was decommissioned in February 2023. These submarines displaced 48,000 tons, carried up to 200 nuclear warheads, and could remain submerged under Arctic ice for 120 days. Designed to serve as a nuclear deterrent, the Typhoon-class featured unique amenities for crew comfort, including a swimming pool and sauna.

Uzbekistan received its first C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft on September 10, 2026, marking its entry as the first operator of this model in Central Asia. The acquisition includes two aircraft, enhancing the capabilities of the Uzbek Air Force, which also operates other transport aircraft. This move is part of Uzbekistan's broader strategy to modernize its military fleet with Western and Chinese equipment.

Iranian engineers are collaborating with Russian military technology sectors, focusing on UAVs and navigation systems as of 2026. Nearly 10,000 Iranian specialists are being trained in Russia, enhancing Iran's military capabilities. This partnership allows Iran to access advanced technologies while providing Russia with expertise in circumventing sanctions. The collaboration emphasizes dual-use technologies and the evolution of military systems.

Dmitri VolkovThu Sep 10 2026Loading...

Ukraine's Defense Forces struck Russian naval assets at Novorossiysk on September 8-9, 2023, hitting the Admiral Essen and Admiral Makarov frigates, along with other vessels. The operation involved drones and at least one Neptune cruise missile, resulting in significant damage and civilian casualties from debris. The extent of the damage remains unverified, with assessments ongoing.

Rostec is launching a defense marketplace in September 2026 to enhance drone protection for Russian infrastructure. This initiative aims to connect manufacturers with defense needs, particularly in response to vulnerabilities exposed by Ukrainian strikes. The marketplace will feature anti-drone systems and related equipment, with a significant portion of applications coming from Russian corporations. The move reflects budgetary pressures and a shift towards more cost-effective defense solutions.

Dmitri VolkovThu Sep 10 2026Loading...

Ukraine is utilizing the FP-5 Flamingo cruise missile to strike high-value military and industrial targets in Russia, including locations in Samara and Volgograd. The missile, developed by Fire Point, has a range of 3,000 kilometers and carries a payload of 1,150 kilograms. Its operational use marks a significant development in Ukraine's military capabilities, allowing for deep strikes independent of foreign supplies.

Ukraine has expanded its drone campaign against Russian naval assets into the Mediterranean, Caspian, and Baltic Seas, conducting multiple strikes from November 2024 to September 2026. Notable incidents include attacks on the Qendil tanker and the sinking of the Arctic Metagaz. Ukrainian forces have targeted various Russian vessels and infrastructure, with the SBU claiming responsibility for several operations.

U.S. and European defense analysts express concerns over potential Russian attacks on NATO, particularly targeting Poland and the Baltic states. The report highlights the possibility of cyber-attacks and missile strikes, as well as the implications of a nuclear conflict. Analysts suggest that Russia may miscalculate its military strength and that the international community should consider the dismantlement of Russia post-conflict.

Two Russian Su-35S fighter jets collided in the Kursk region, resulting in one pilot's death and another's serious injury. The incident occurred amid ongoing Russian aviation operations in the area, which has experienced multiple aircraft losses since the start of the Ukraine conflict. The full circumstances of the collision are still under investigation, with no independent confirmation from Russian or Ukrainian officials at this time.

Azerbaijan is commencing local production of naval drones, specifically the SALVO and KAYRA unmanned surface vessels, in collaboration with Turkey. President Ilham Aliyev visited the production facility on September 6, where he was briefed on the vessels' capabilities and testing. This initiative marks a significant shift in Azerbaijan's defense capabilities, moving from operating to producing advanced naval drones domestically.

Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted drone strikes on Millerovo airbase in Rostov Oblast and Sochi airport in Krasnodar Krai on August 30 and September 4, respectively. The strikes resulted in significant damage, including the destruction of an ammunition depot and radar systems at Millerovo, and the loss of military helicopters at Sochi. The FP-1 drones were used in these operations, highlighting their role in Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities.

Russia continues to produce Su-34 fighter-bombers at the Novosibirsk Aviation Plant, with 212 units delivered by early 2026. During the Viva Avia air festival on August 1-2, 2024, a newly built Su-34 was spotted, highlighting ongoing production despite the war in Ukraine. The aircraft has been used extensively in combat, with 43 confirmed losses since the invasion began in February 2022.

Four Soviet-built aircraft carriers have had varied fates: one is a luxury hotel in Tianjin, another serves as a theme park in Shenzhen, one is operational in the Indian Navy as INS Vikramaditya, and the last is being scrapped. The Admiral Kuznetsov remains with Russia but is plagued by mechanical issues and is likely to be scrapped. The collapse of the USSR has left the Russian Navy struggling to maintain its naval capabilities.

Russian forces have significantly enhanced their drone strike capabilities in Ukraine by utilizing Chinese-made MIMO mesh radios, allowing control of drones up to 175 kilometers away. On July 17, a Geran drone from the 50th Separate Operational Brigade struck a target in Poltava while maintaining operator control. This technology shift indicates a strategic pivot towards northern Ukraine, with implications for NATO logistics and operations.

Kalashnikov Concern unveiled the AK-12+ assault rifle at the Eastern Economic Forum in Vladivostok from September 1-4, 2023, announcing its preparation for serial production. The new weapon, designed for special forces, features enhancements for shooting precision and will include electro-optical sights. A cooperation agreement was signed with the Voin Center to develop engineering skills among youth.

Ukraine's Navy destroyed a Russian uncrewed surface vessel near Snake Island in the Black Sea on Tuesday using a Bayraktar TB2 drone. The drone strike resulted in the vessel catching fire and detonating. The destroyed vessel is believed to be a KAMA-class uncrewed boat, which has been associated with Russian naval operations. This incident highlights ongoing military engagements in the region, particularly around strategic locations like Snake Island.

Russia's missile and drone forces are preparing to strike Ukrainian energy facilities in response to ongoing attacks on Russian civilian infrastructure. This warning was issued by the Russian Ministry of Defense on August 30, 2023, coinciding with intensified drone strikes in Kyiv and surrounding areas. The situation has led to significant damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure, raising concerns as winter approaches.

HMS Daring underwent extensive repairs in Portsmouth from 2017 to 2023 due to propulsion issues and a lack of trained personnel. The Royal Navy faced significant logistical challenges, resulting in the destroyer being out of service for eight years. Despite the completion of repairs, Daring could not return to active duty until a new crew was trained. The Royal Navy's operational readiness has been severely impacted by mechanical issues and manpower shortages.