Analysis & Reports

Overland AI is showcasing its fully autonomous tactical vehicle, ULTRA, at the AUSA Global Force event in Huntsville next week. The vehicle is designed to operate effectively in real terrain alongside soldiers, aligning with the Army's interest in testing new technologies in operational environments. This approach emphasizes practical use and refinement of unmanned ground systems.

The Trump administration is developing a strategy to seize Iran's nuclear materials to prevent the country from producing nuclear weapons. Discussions indicate that U.S. Special Operations Command may be deployed for this operation. The Pentagon is preparing for this potential action, although no official comments have been made yet.

The U.S. Navy deployed three ships carrying approximately 2,500 Marines to the Middle East, increasing the total U.S. military presence in the region to 50,000. This deployment aims to provide military options for President Trump, particularly concerning the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran has restricted navigation. The U.S. is also contemplating ground troop deployment to secure strategic locations.

U.S. President Trump announced on March 20, 2023, that the U.S. is considering a gradual de-escalation of military actions against Iran. He emphasized that the Strait of Hormuz should be defended by the countries that use it, not the U.S. Trump also stated that while dialogue with Iran is possible, he does not seek a ceasefire as the U.S. aims to weaken Iran's military capabilities.

U.S. Northern Command successfully countered a drone threat over a strategic installation during the early hours of Operation Epic Fury last month. The operation utilized a Fly-Away Kit, manned by 11 soldiers, to detect and defeat the drone incursion. This incident is part of a broader increase in drone intrusions over military installations, prompting a zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized drone flights in restricted airspace.

U.S. Northern Command successfully countered a drone threat over a strategic installation during the early hours of Operation Epic Fury last month. The operation utilized a Fly-Away Kit, which includes advanced detection and mitigation technologies. The Defense Department has noted an increase in drone intrusions over military sites and has implemented a zero-tolerance policy for unauthorized drone flights.

The USS George Washington completed a 2,117-day Refueling and Complex Overhaul at Newport News, Virginia, which was initially expected to take four years. The extensive delay was attributed to unforeseen repairs, pandemic-related supply chain disruptions, and a lack of redundancy in the U.S. naval industrial base. This situation highlights significant logistical challenges affecting the operational readiness of the U.S. Navy.

The U.S. military is deploying approximately 2500 Marines and 3 ships, including the USS Boxer, to the Middle East as of March 20, 2023. This deployment aims to enhance operational capabilities in the region, with the USS Boxer departing earlier than scheduled. The U.S. is also contemplating further troop deployments to exert pressure on Iran regarding its oil exports.

Harrison Kass shared insights on the U.S. Air Force pilot selection process, emphasizing the importance of high AFOQT scores and flight hours. He noted that despite a sub-3.0 GPA and a non-STEM background, candidates can succeed by mastering specific tests and demonstrating commitment through flight experience. The report highlights the competitive nature of the OTS selection, with acceptance rates historically low.

The U.S. Air Force is accelerating the production of B-21 Raiders, with plans to acquire at least 145 units, significantly more than the current fleet of 19 B-2 Spirits. Flight tests are underway at Edwards Air Force Base, including successful air-to-air refueling operations. General Stephen Davis confirmed that the B-21 will play a key role in operational plans against Chinese naval assets.

Denmark dispatched soldiers and explosives to Greenland in January as part of a contingency plan to destroy key runways in Nuuk and Kangerlussuaq if the U.S. attempted an invasion. This strategy aimed to prevent U.S. military aircraft from landing troops and equipment. The mobilization occurred amid President Trump's threats to seize Greenland, which has faced opposition from Danish and Greenlandic officials and the public.

The U.S. Army is deploying its first Dark Eagle hypersonic missile battery at Joint Base Lewis-McChord in March 2026. This system, operated by Bravo Battery of the 17th Field Artillery Brigade, features four transporter erector launchers capable of launching hypersonic missiles with a range of 3,500 km, striking targets in under 20 minutes. Despite ongoing testing and incomplete lethality data, the Dark Eagle represents a significant advancement in U.S. military capabilities.

The U.S. Navy's Midway-class aircraft carriers, including the USS Midway, USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, and USS Coral Sea, served from 1945 to 1992, participating in key military operations such as the Vietnam War and Operation Desert Storm. These carriers were notable for their armored steel flight decks and advanced capabilities, evolving through the Cold War to accommodate modern aircraft. The USS Midway was decommissioned in 1992 after a distinguished service record.

USS Texas (BB-35) is undergoing a $75 million restoration in Galveston, aiming for a grand reopening as a museum in 2027. The battleship, which played a significant role in World War II, including shore bombardment during D-Day, is now leak-free for the first time in 90 years. It is a testament to early 20th-century naval engineering and will serve as a historical monument.

On October 19, 2023, Iran's air defense system struck a U.S. F-35 fighter jet, causing significant damage and forcing an emergency landing at a U.S. military base in the Middle East. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps announced the incident, claiming it showcases Iran's enhanced deterrent capabilities. The U.S. Central Command confirmed the emergency landing and stated that the pilot was safe and stable.

USS John C. Stennis (CVN-74) is undergoing a delayed Refueling and Complex Overhaul (RCOH) at Newport News Shipbuilding, Virginia, which is now expected to complete in October 2026, 14 months behind schedule. This delay, caused by engineering issues and labor shortages, threatens the U.S. Navy's carrier availability, particularly impacting operations in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific regions.

NATO conducted extensive military exercises in March 2026, including Arctic Sentry in Norway and Finland, involving 25,000 personnel. The U.S. Army's 2-159th Attack Battalion executed Operation Skyfall in Germany, utilizing Apache helicopters against drones. Poland is preparing to become a major Apache operator, while NATO has increased its missile defense readiness following an Iranian missile threat to Turkey. Concurrently, Romania is leading the SEA SHIELD 26 exercise in the Black Sea.

Alexandra ReevesFri Mar 20 2026Loading...

The Marine Corps tested amphibious vehicle prototypes, including the ARV-30, at Camp Pendleton in January and February 2023. The tests demonstrated new features such as an 'autotrim function' for automated navigation and assessed the vehicle's performance in various water conditions. The prototypes, developed by Textron Systems and General Dynamics, are part of a competition to replace the aging light armored vehicle fleet, with a contractor selection expected by 2030.

The Marine Corps tested the ARV-30 amphibious vehicle prototype at Camp Pendleton, California, in January and February 2023. The tests demonstrated new features, including an 'autotrim function' for automated navigation and safety enhancements. The vehicle was evaluated for its performance in various water conditions, including high-speed entries and turret movements for potential live fire scenarios. A contractor selection is expected by 2030.

The United States Marine Corps announced that Marines can now use the M17 Romeo red dot optic for pistol qualifications and in combat. This marks the first time optical sights are permitted for Marine pistols, aimed at improving shooting accuracy and lethality. Units are responsible for procuring and installing the optics, which are designed for the M17 and M18 pistols.