Analysis & Reports

U.S. President Trump stated that Iran is developing long-range missiles that pose a threat to the United States. Plans are in place to destroy Iran's missile industry and navy, ensuring that Iran cannot obtain nuclear weapons.

The U.S. has assembled a significant military presence in the Persian Gulf, including two aircraft carrier strike groups and over 100 fighter jets, as of February 2026. This buildup coincides with ongoing diplomatic negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program. In response, Iran has conducted military exercises and sought advanced air defense systems from Russia and China. The situation reflects heightened tensions and potential for conflict in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

Israel launched a preemptive strike against Iranian targets in Tehran on February 28, resulting in multiple missile strikes in the city center, including near the office of Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. The Israeli Defense Forces declared a state of emergency and issued alerts to citizens to seek shelter. Reports indicate that dozens of Iranian targets were struck in this operation.

Israeli Defense Minister announced a preemptive airstrike against Iran on February 28, targeting multiple locations in Tehran. Explosions were reported, and the Israeli Defense Forces activated emergency alerts nationwide. The strikes were described as a joint operation with the U.S., with missiles hitting the vicinity of the Iranian Supreme Leader's office.

India is focusing on integrating advanced Israeli drones, long-range missiles, and laser defense systems into its security infrastructure to create a multi-layered defense shield. Prime Minister Modi's visit to Israel aims to strengthen defense cooperation, with a memorandum of understanding expected to be signed. India is also developing a domestic multi-layer air defense system to protect against missile and drone threats by 2035.

The U.S. Air Force deployed over 100 F-22 and F-35 stealth fighters to the Middle East, including 12 F-22 Raptors to an Israeli Air Force base on February 24, 2023. This deployment aims to enhance combat capabilities against Iran's legacy air power, primarily consisting of F-14 and MiG-29 aircraft. The integration of AI technology into these fighters is expected to improve their effectiveness in combat operations.

Israel signed a deal to purchase 25 additional F-35 stealth fighters in 2024, enhancing its capabilities against regional threats. The Israeli Air Force integrates advanced electronic warfare systems into the F-35I Adir to jam and disable Iranian air defense systems. This adaptation allows Israel to effectively counter asymmetric threats from groups like Hezbollah and Hamas.

Israeli strikes targeted Iranian F-14 Tomcats at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran in June 2025, raising concerns about the operational status of Iran's fleet. Iran inherited around 80 F-14s, but due to decades of sanctions and parts scarcity, estimates suggest only a small number remain flyable. The strikes have further degraded Iran's air combat capabilities, as the F-14s are now largely considered unusable in a conflict.

The U.S. Navy deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Carl Vinson to conduct continuous air patrols over Iran, focusing on degrading missile production capabilities. This deployment includes various land-based fighters and advanced jamming systems to counter Iranian air defenses. The operation aims to limit Iran's missile production and ensure regional security against potential threats.

The U.S. Department of State approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Jordan involving Ku band multi-function radio frequency system (KuMRFS) radars valued at $280 million.

EDGE Group signed a Defence Industry Cooperation Framework with the Republic of Korea’s DAPA in Abu Dhabi on 27 February 2026. This agreement marks a significant milestone in defense cooperation, valued at approximately $35 billion, focusing on integrated air defense systems, advanced aircraft capabilities, and maritime power. The signing took place during a high-level visit from South Korea, highlighting the strong bilateral defense partnership.

The United States has deployed six E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft to Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia and F-22 Raptors to Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, preparing for potential conflict in the Persian Gulf. Concurrently, Iran has conducted military exercises demonstrating its missile capabilities and positioned ballistic missile launchers along its coastline. Diplomatic tensions are rising within the Gulf Cooperation Council as the UAE opposes military operations against Iran from its territory.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

ST Engineering secured a €315 million contract to provide maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for military land platforms to the Qatar Emiri Land Forces, commencing in the second quarter of 2026. The contract includes the implementation of digitalized MRO processes and aims to enhance operational readiness and lifecycle management of military equipment in Qatar.

Iran completed the modernization of one of its Kilo-class submarines at its primary naval hub near the Strait of Hormuz on February 16, 2026. This upgrade comes in response to increased U.S. naval deployments in the region and aims to enhance Iran's undersea capabilities. The Kilo-class submarines are crucial for Iran's asymmetric naval strategy, allowing them to complicate U.S. operations in the Persian Gulf.

Saudi Arabia is showcasing its national flag on foreign defense platforms at the World Defense Show, indicating potential future defense deals. This event is taking place outside Riyadh in 2026, highlighting the transformation of the Saudi defense industry.

The U.S. military is assembling its largest force of warships and aircraft in the Middle East in decades, including two aircraft carrier strike groups, in response to tensions with Iran. This buildup involves at least 16 ships and over 100 fighter jets, with significant deployments to bases in Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the Arabian Sea. The U.S. aims to deter potential Iranian aggression amid ongoing threats from President Trump regarding military action if nuclear negotiations fail.

The U.S. Air Force operates only 19 B-2 Spirit bombers, facing a strategic gap in airpower due to high maintenance costs and a reliance on these aircraft for critical missions, including nuclear capabilities. The B-2's operational status has been impacted by a 2022 landing mishap and ongoing maintenance challenges, prompting concerns about the future of U.S. airpower until the B-21 Raider becomes operational in the 2030s.

The U.S. Army is developing the M1E3 Abrams tank to enhance its capabilities against evolving threats like FPV drones and Kornet ATGMs. The Army Science Board has warned that the current M1 Abrams will be inadequate for future warfare by 2040. Despite its distinguished combat record, the tank has faced significant losses in conflicts in Ukraine and Yemen, prompting a shift towards more advanced technology and design.

Orbit Communication Systems secured a $3.2 million follow-on contract from the Israeli Ministry of Defense for satellite communication systems on February 26, 2026. The systems will enhance connectivity across various satellite constellations, ensuring reliable communications in challenging environments. This contract includes the Multi-Purpose Terminal (MPT) SATCOM systems, designed to meet demanding defense operational requirements.

The U.S. is conducting a significant military buildup in the Persian Gulf, deploying two carrier strike groups and numerous aircraft in preparation for potential military action against Iran. Concurrently, Iran is enhancing its military capabilities along its southern coast, particularly near the Strait of Hormuz, and has engaged in arms deals with Russia and China. Diplomatic negotiations continue, but the situation remains tense as both sides prepare for possible conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Feb 26 2026Loading...