Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor fleet's mission-capable rate has dropped to 40.19 percent in fiscal 2024, prompting concerns over readiness. The Air Force has 184 F-22s, including 32 older Block 20 models that Congress has blocked from retirement. Upgrading these Block 20s is projected to cost at least $3.3 billion and take about 15 years, complicating the Air Force's operational capabilities amid increasing global demands.

The F-35 program is experiencing significant readiness issues, with the fleet's mission-capable rate dropping to 25% as of July 31, 2026. The U.S. Air Force is addressing these challenges through a proposed $13.7 billion sustainment reset. Key issues include delays in Block 4 modernization and insufficient power and cooling capacity for future upgrades. Locations involved include Columbus, Ohio, Jacksonville, Florida, and Santiago, Chile.

Ukrainian FP-1 drones attacked the Lukoil-Volgograd oil refinery and logistical targets in Krasnodar Krai and Crimea on July 31, 2023. This operation threatens 15 million tons of annual oil processing and highlights the vulnerability of Russian logistics. The strikes demonstrate Ukraine's ability to reach significant targets deep within Russian territory, impacting military supply chains.

Dmitri VolkovFri Jul 31 2026Loading...

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions completed the Indiana Payload Integration Facility for hypersonic systems in Crane, Indiana, on July 28, 2026, ahead of schedule. The $50 million facility is designed to enhance the U.S. military's hypersonic testing capabilities by allowing rapid preparation of experimental payloads. It is expected to create over 100 high-tech jobs and is part of a broader strategy to build defense manufacturing infrastructure in the region.

Certo Aerospace's uncrewed helicopter CAPSTONE successfully completed flight trials at Predannack Airfield, Cornwall, demonstrating speeds over 100 mph while carrying cargo. This marks the beginning of a series of tests aimed at proving the aircraft's readiness for military logistics operations. The trials are part of a summer testing schedule that includes further evaluations in Wiltshire, with the goal of enhancing military logistics capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force announced that operational testing of M-code chip cards for military platforms will conclude by fiscal 2027. Up to a million receivers are needed across various services, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The M-code program has faced delays, but the Army has already fielded nearly 4,000 receivers to operational units. Testing continues for platforms like the Gray Eagle UAV and F-16 aircraft, with significant logistical efforts underway to ensure readiness.

The U.S. Army Reserve successfully tested the DropShip aircraft during a logistics exercise on June 30, 2026, completing a 32-km autonomous resupply mission from Gulfport to Diamondhead, Mississippi. The aircraft, capable of carrying 249 kg of supplies, demonstrated its ability to operate from austere locations and conducted a precision airdrop. This marks a significant advancement in military logistics capabilities, allowing for resupply missions in contested areas without risking human pilots.

Military leaders from troop-contributing countries met in Kampala on July 29, 2023, to address the future of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) after the U.S. announced it would cease funding after December 31, 2026. The mission, which currently relies on U.S. logistical support, faces significant challenges from al-Shabaab and uncertainties regarding its operational capacity without American assistance.

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Britain committed $11.3 billion to the Dreadnought-class submarine program on July 30, 2026, to replace its aging Vanguard-class submarines. The investment will support the construction of four new submarines, ensuring continuous nuclear deterrent patrols. The program is expected to create approximately 65,000 jobs by 2030, with significant economic impacts across the UK.

Rheinmetall secured a contract to deliver 72 RCH 155 howitzers for the British Army, valued at approximately £1 billion. Deliveries are scheduled from May 2028 to June 2031, with manufacturing taking place in Telford, England. The RCH 155 features a fully automated turret and can fire while moving, significantly enhancing artillery capabilities. This acquisition is part of the UK's efforts to replace lost artillery and improve military readiness.

Innoviz Technologies secured a $3.5 million defense contract on July 30, 2026, for several hundred LiDAR units intended for counter-drone systems in Israel. The technology aims to enhance threat localization and detection capabilities, addressing limitations of traditional sensors. Half of the units are expected to ship by the end of 2026, with potential for larger follow-on orders based on initial deployment success.

The U.S. Navy is set to change its physical training (PT) uniform by 2027, transitioning to navy blue-on-blue shorts and shirts with gold logos, based on sailor feedback. This new uniform aims to be more modern and functional, enhancing morale during physical training. Additionally, the Navy is reviewing its issued boots and the number of dress uniforms to streamline options for personnel.

The U.S. Navy awarded contracts totaling $76.6 billion for the construction of five Columbia-class and nine Virginia-class submarines. This investment aims to enhance undersea superiority and replace aging Ohio-class submarines. The Columbia-class is expected to surpass the capabilities of its predecessor, while the Virginia-class continues to support special operations. Construction began in 2020, with the first Columbia-class submarine delivery now scheduled for 2028 due to delays.

The U.S. military has significantly depleted its inventory of Patriot and THAAD missiles in response to Iranian attacks in the Middle East, with estimates indicating a reduction of up to 67% for Patriot missiles and 48% for THAAD interceptors. It may take over three years to restock these missile systems to pre-war levels. Ongoing airstrikes against Iran have further strained U.S. air defense capabilities, prompting contracts for increased production of these critical interceptors.

The U.S. has significantly depleted its Patriot missile inventory during the conflict with Iran, leaving fewer than 1,000 interceptors available. This drawdown raises concerns about readiness for future conflicts, as the U.S. and its coalition partners may need to prioritize high-value threats. The Pentagon has initiated a contract to produce new interceptors, but rebuilding stockpiles will take several years, creating a near- to medium-term risk.

USS Enterprise ran aground in San Francisco Bay on April 28, 1983, while attempting to return to Naval Air Station Alameda. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, 3,000 feet from the pier, settled in shallow water after missing the dredged channel. Captain Robert J. Kelly accepted responsibility for the incident, which resulted in no injuries and minimal damage to the vessel.

U.S. air-and-missile defense systems are currently facing significant challenges in replenishing munitions stockpiles due to damage to AN/TPY-2 radars in Iran. The U.S. is relocating these critical assets from the Indo-Pacific and Europe, which may weaken defense capabilities in those regions. Manufacturing solid rocket motors for interceptors is complex, with issues related to demand signals and regulatory hurdles. New technologies, including liquid rocket motors, are being explored to enhance future capabilities.

L3Harris postponed the IPO of its missile solutions unit until mid-2027 due to market undervaluation and uncertain conditions. The company continues to invest in production facilities for solid rocket motors and missile components, responding to increasing demand from the Defense Department. L3Harris is currently negotiating contracts worth over $20 billion, which would significantly increase its backlog.

USS Enterprise struck Bishop Rock at Cortes Bank, California, on November 2, 1985, during a readiness exercise, resulting in a 40-foot gash and the temporary loss of 24 aviation-fuel tanks. The incident caused $17 million in damage and required six weeks of repairs. Despite the flooding, the carrier resumed training after a one-day inspection and returned to Alameda on November 23, 1985.

The U.S. conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets on September 29-30, 2023, following missile attacks from Iran. Iran retaliated with drone strikes on U.S. bases in Jordan, claiming significant damage to F-35 jets. Egypt confirmed drone attacks on its port, indicating a potential escalation of the conflict. Saudi Arabia also engaged in strikes against Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, further complicating the regional situation.