Analysis & Reports

Iran's F-14 Tomcat fleet is currently under pressure from U.S.-Israeli air superiority during Operation Epic Fury in March 2026. The fleet, consisting of 41 F-14D/E/RF airframes, has a historical kill ratio of 130-4 from the Iran-Iraq War. Five F-14s were previously destroyed in Israeli airstrikes, but no new losses have been reported in the ongoing conflict.

The Pentagon plans to allocate $152 billion in fiscal year 2026, diverging from previous budget requests and congressional guidance. This decision raises concerns about oversight and the appropriateness of using reconciliation funds for military budgeting. Lawmakers are urged to reconsider the use of such funds to ensure proper accountability and transparency in defense spending.

The U.S. Air Force's B-2 Spirit stealth bombers are now capable of deploying modified JDAMs equipped with Weapon Open Systems Architecture (WOSA) seekers for maritime strikes. This new Quicksink capability enhances the B-2's operational role, allowing it to effectively target moving naval vessels. The program aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional anti-ship missiles, supporting Navy operations in contested maritime environments.

The U.S. has mandated that Europe must assume full responsibility for its conventional defense by 2027, prompting NATO to set a new spending target of 5% of GDP by 2035. Currently, 51% of European defense spending is allocated to U.S. systems, highlighting a reliance that threatens European defense ambitions. The SAFE initiative aims to transform the European defense industry, while significant personnel shortages pose additional challenges.

Dr. Klaus WeberWed Mar 04 2026Loading...

The U.S. defense strategy for 2026 requires European NATO partners to assume full responsibility for the continent's conventional defense by 2027. NATO has established a new spending target of 5% of GDP by 2035, with significant increases in defense spending and a focus on transforming the European defense industry. However, a structural weakness remains due to continued reliance on U.S. weapon systems, which account for 51% of European armament expenditures.

Dr. Klaus WeberWed Mar 04 2026Loading...

Rheinmetall examined the wreckage of a US B-17 bomber in the North Sea on behalf of Amprion Offshore GmbH during the summer of 2025. The investigation, supported by the Defence POW/MIA Accounting Agency, confirmed that no bombs were present, enabling further project work without delays. This investigation is crucial for the construction of the offshore converter platform, with operations planned for 2028.

On January 29, 2026, the Islamic State's Sahel Province launched a coordinated assault on Dori Hamani International Airport and Air Base 101 in Niamey, utilizing 30 fighters equipped with armed drones and mortars. The attack, which lasted two hours, was ultimately repelled, but it highlights the growing operational capabilities of jihadist groups in the region. In a separate incident in mid-February, 80 soldiers and militia members were killed in an attack in Titao.

Marie DuboisWed Mar 04 2026Loading...

An Israeli F-35I fighter jet shot down an Iranian Yak-130 over Tehran during a brief air combat. This incident marks the first kill of a manned fighter jet by an F-35. The engagement occurred amid the ongoing 'Epic Fury' military operation, which involves joint U.S.-Israeli strikes against military targets in Iran. The Israeli Air Force has conducted around 1,600 raids into Iran since the operation began on February 28, 2023.

An Israeli F-35I fighter jet shot down an Iranian Yak-130 over Tehran during a brief air combat on February 28, 2023. This incident marks the first kill of a manned fighter jet by an F-35. The action occurred amid the ongoing 'Epic Fury' military operation, where the Israeli Air Force has conducted extensive airstrikes against military targets in Iran.

Operation Epic Fury successfully degraded Iran's nuclear infrastructure and air defenses, resulting in the reported death of Iran’s Supreme Leader. The U.S. Armed Forces neutralized over 200 air-defense systems and destroyed 50% of missile launchers. In retaliation, the Islamic Republic Guard Corps (IRGC) launched over 270 ballistic missiles and drones. Concerns arise over a potential power vacuum and the consolidation of IRGC power in Iran.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin stated that the conflict with Iran may last several weeks, potentially extending to 8 weeks or longer. He emphasized that the pace and intensity of the conflict will be controlled by the U.S. government.

EURENCO and ZVS holding signed a joint memorandum on 4 March 2026 to establish a manufacturing facility for Modular Artillery Charge Systems (MACS) in Strážske, eastern Slovakia. The project, with an investment of around EUR 300 million, aims to create hundreds of jobs and enhance the European defense industry. Production is expected to start in 2028, contributing significantly to artillery ammunition supply chains.

Neros Technologies has established a subsidiary in Swindon, United Kingdom, and plans to invest up to £10 million over the next five years. This move indicates a strategic expansion into the UK market, potentially impacting the defense industry.

The U.S. Navy submarine torpedoed and sank the Iranian Navy frigate IRIS Dana in the Indian Ocean off the coast of Sri Lanka late Tuesday night, resulting in at least 80 fatalities. This incident marks a rare confirmed submarine attack against a surface combatant in modern naval warfare. The attack was confirmed by U.S. officials and Sri Lankan authorities, with video footage released showing the moment of impact.

A U.S. Navy submarine sank the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean using a Mk-48 torpedo, marking the first such incident since World War II. The attack occurred while the frigate was reportedly safe in international waters. Of the 180 personnel aboard, 32 were rescued by Sri Lankan naval forces. The Pentagon confirmed the strike, highlighting the U.S. military's operational capabilities in the region.

A U.S. Navy submarine sank the Iranian frigate IRIS Dena in the Indian Ocean using a Mk-48 torpedo, marking the first such incident since World War II. The attack occurred while the frigate was reportedly in international waters, with 180 personnel on board, of which 32 were rescued by Sri Lankan forces. The Pentagon confirmed the strike, highlighting the U.S. military's operational capabilities in the region.

Ukrainian pilots are utilizing the Mirage 2000 to conduct offensive strikes and intercept Russian drones and missiles in Ukraine. The aircraft has demonstrated a 98% kill rate against enemy targets and is integral to Ukraine's counter-logistics strategy, carrying significant ordnance. French Mirage 2000 jets have been operational since 2025, shifting from defensive to offensive roles.

U.S. military veterans are experiencing significant mental health challenges, including PTSD and traumatic brain injuries, as highlighted by studies and expert opinions. The perception of stigma remains a major barrier to seeking care. President Trump has indicated that ground troops may be deployed in Iran, raising concerns about the mental health impacts of ongoing military engagements. The VA provides resources for veterans, but many still struggle to find peace after their service in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The U.S. Air Force evaluated the necessity of expanding its fleet of stealth bombers, concluding that 225 B-21 Raiders are essential to deter potential conflicts with China and Russia. The current fleet of 19 B-2 Spirits is deemed inadequate for high-intensity warfare. The B-21 Raider, designed for advanced threat environments, is set to replace the aging B-2 and enhance U.S. military capabilities.

U.S. Southern Command and Ecuadorian forces launched joint military operations against narco-terrorist groups in Ecuador on March 3, 2026. This operation marks the first ground action in South America since the U.S. military returned to a former base in Ecuador. The mission aims to combat drug trafficking and violence inflicted by designated terrorist organizations.