Analysis & Reports

Iran imposed a nationwide internet blackout in January 2026, affecting 92 million citizens, to suppress dissent following protests. The National Information Network (NIN) remains only 60% operational, leading to significant economic losses of $36 million per day. The Iranian government escalated its military actions against Starlink to prevent communication and has intensified threats against journalists reporting on the protests.

UKR ARMO TECH announced its intention to expand into the Middle East defense market while increasing production capacity for potential export demand. The company showcased its DESNA multi-purpose tactical vehicle and GYURZA-03 MRAP-class platform at the World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia, attracting significant interest from defense officials and military delegations. This move reflects a shift towards international outreach as Gulf states modernize their ground forces.

Emirati defense companies withdrew from the World Defense Exhibition in Riyadh on February 9, 2026, signaling a significant political shift in military relations with Saudi Arabia. This absence, involving around 30 companies, reflects the deteriorating trust and cooperation between the two nations, particularly following military tensions in Yemen. The situation highlights the UAE's strategic use of its defense industry in regional politics.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Feb 12 2026Loading...

Iran's Foreign Minister reiterated the possibility of a fair agreement on a peaceful nuclear program during celebrations for the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution on November 11. He emphasized the importance of dialogue over conflict and stated that Iran will defend its sovereignty and dignity at all costs.

Iran continues negotiations with the United States regarding nuclear issues, with Iranian officials expressing optimism about the talks. On February 11, 2023, Iranian National Security Council Secretary Larijani accused Israel of trying to disrupt the negotiations and provoke conflict in the Middle East. Qatar is facilitating these discussions, emphasizing the importance of regional stability.

Iran is negotiating with the United States to determine the timing of the next round of talks regarding nuclear issues. The discussions were confirmed by Iranian National Security Council Secretary Larijani during his visit to Muscat, Oman, on February 11, 2023. U.S. President Trump expressed a willingness to continue negotiations, although specific locations were not disclosed.

Saudi Arabia is purchasing 48 F-35A fighter jets for $148 billion, with delivery expected after 2027. This acquisition includes training and maintenance, and is part of a broader strategy to enhance its military capabilities. The deal is viewed as a significant geopolitical move, signaling Saudi Arabia's entry into the elite group of fifth-generation fighter operators, while also raising questions about its operational independence due to U.S. control over the aircraft systems.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Feb 11 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy is adapting its strategy due to shipbuilding limitations, implementing 'tailored force packages' instead of traditional carrier strike groups. This shift is a response to the inability to meet operational demands, as the Navy currently operates 11 aircraft carriers, unchanged since 2006. The reliance on unmanned systems is increasing, but their effectiveness in contested environments remains unproven. China's naval expansion further complicates U.S. strategic planning.

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ELT Group and D-Orbit signed a strategic cooperation framework in Riyadh on 10 February 2026, aimed at supporting Saudi Vision 2030 objectives. The agreement focuses on enhancing technological development and industrial growth in the space sector, particularly in RF spectrum monitoring and cyber capabilities. Sponsored by the Saudi Ministry of Investment, this collaboration seeks to strengthen the Kingdom's space infrastructure and capabilities.

Iranian Foreign Minister Zarif criticized Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu for attempting to involve the U.S. in a war with Iran, asserting that Netanyahu is a proponent of war. Zarif noted that Netanyahu has conducted attacks on seven countries in the region over the past two years. He emphasized that recent attempts to escalate tensions have failed and that some U.S. officials are seeking diplomatic resolutions instead.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu will provide new intelligence to President Trump regarding Iran's military capabilities during his visit to the United States on February 10-11, 2020. This intelligence focuses on Iran's ballistic missile capabilities, with warnings that Iran could possess up to 2000 missiles in the near future without intervention. Netanyahu aims to discuss Israel's position on Iran's nuclear program and its implications for global security.

Saudi Arabia is considering a significant joint investment in Turkey's Kaan stealth fighter project, which aims to establish Turkey as a producer of fifth-generation fighter jets. This initiative follows Turkey's removal from the F-35 program and is supported by a recent $10 billion export deal with Indonesia. The Kaan project is critical for Turkey's defense capabilities, although it faces challenges related to engine supply due to U.S. export restrictions.

Saudi Arabia is focusing on artificial intelligence in defense as part of its military modernization efforts. The Saudi Arabian Military Industries is evolving to keep pace with modern threats, as discussed during the World Defense Show 2026.

Leonardo DRS is actively building partnerships with the Saudi Arabian defense industry as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 initiative. This effort aims to enhance collaboration between the government and local industries, focusing on defense sector development.

Leonardo DRS is building partnerships with the Saudi Arabian defense industrial base as part of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 initiative. This effort aims to enhance collaboration between the government and local industries, focusing on defense procurement and industrial development.

On February 10, 2026, Chinese officials presented a scale model of the J-20 stealth fighter to the Commander of the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force in Tehran, indicating a new phase of military cooperation. This gesture aligns with a trilateral strategic pact and suggests potential future arms deals, as China seeks to enhance Iran's military capabilities amid U.S. naval presence in the Gulf.

World Defense Show 2026 showcased air and land demonstrations in Riyadh on February 10, 2026, featuring strategic briefings from the General Authority for Military Industries. The event focused on connecting government officials with industry leaders to discuss defense technologies and partnerships, emphasizing Saudi Arabia's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities in line with Vision 2030.

Turkish President Erdoğan visited Saudi Arabia and Egypt to enhance defense ties. In Saudi Arabia, discussions focused on joint investment in the KAAN fighter jet program, while Turkey and Egypt signed a Military Framework Agreement to expand defense cooperation. Egypt will acquire the MKE TOLGA Close-In Air Defense System as part of a broader $350 million defense package, signaling a shift towards long-term industrial cooperation.

Saudi Arabia's General Authority for Defense Development is evaluating the integration of AI in military systems, considering both AI-enhanced and AI-native platforms. This discussion took place at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in 2026, highlighting the importance of human oversight in AI decision-making. The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 development strategy, emphasizing responsible AI use in military applications.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu announced a meeting with President Trump on February 11, 2023, to discuss Iran's ballistic missile threat. Israel considers unilateral military action if Iran crosses red lines regarding missile capabilities. Military experts suggest that coordination with the U.S. would enhance the effectiveness of any potential strikes against Iran.