Analysis & Reports

Smart Shooter secured a $3.4 million follow-on contract from the U.S. Marine Corps for SMASH 2000LE fire control systems on June 9, 2026. The contract includes options that could raise the total value to $5.8 million, with deliveries expected by the end of 2026. This contract reflects increasing operational demand for Smart Shooter's solutions in response to evolving battlefield threats, particularly from drones.

The U.S. Marine Corps awarded a $5.8 million contract to Smart Shooter for AI-powered rifle scopes, enhancing their capability to engage small drones. This contract includes soldier-portable SMASH 2000LE systems and options for additional equipment. The SMASH system integrates advanced technology to improve targeting accuracy, reflecting a growing need for effective counter-drone solutions across U.S. military branches.

Teledyne FLIR OEM launched the Boson SX8 thermal camera module on June 8, 2026, in Goleta, California. This new thermal camera is the first NDAA-compliant, uncooled LWIR module featuring an 8-micron pixel pitch and SXGA resolution, optimized for defense and industrial applications. It is designed for use in uncrewed aircraft systems and ISR systems, providing enhanced situational awareness and performance.

U.S. Army soldiers recently trained with the Wild Goose robotic ground vehicle in the United States. This unmanned platform is designed to carry heavy equipment, reducing the physical burden on infantry. The Wild Goose can carry up to 150 kg and has a maximum operational range of approximately 22 km. Its capabilities are expected to enhance logistics for dismounted infantry during operations.

L3Harris Technologies installed industrial robots at its new GMLRS rocket motor facility in Camden, Arkansas, in February 2025. This installation marks a significant step in enhancing the production capacity for solid rocket motors, which are critical for the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System. The expansion is part of a broader effort to rebuild the U.S. munitions production base, reflecting lessons learned from recent military engagements.

Lawmakers are exploring modernization options for the A-10 Thunderbolt II, including artificial intelligence and electronic warfare capabilities. A report detailing these potential upgrades is due by January 15, 2027. The A-10, which has been in service since 1977, is expected to remain operational in some squadrons until 2030, despite ongoing discussions about its retirement and potential transfer to other military services.

Army investigators are looking into the theft of $33,000 worth of military gear from a soldier's rental vehicle in Portland, Oregon, which occurred overnight between October 29 and 30. The stolen equipment includes flight helmets, survival radios, and a military-grade laptop. The Army Criminal Investigation Division has confirmed an open investigation into the incident, which has faced setbacks.

Anduril Industries emphasizes the need for the U.S. to innovate and produce cheaper weapons systems at scale to meet future military demands. The company recently opened a new facility in Columbus, Ohio, aimed at mass-producing munitions. Christian Brose, Anduril's president, highlighted the lessons from the Ukraine war and the importance of adapting to technological advancements from adversaries like Iran.

iRocket was awarded a contract by the U.S. Army on June 08, 2026, to produce Hydra-70 Guided Rocket Components aimed at enhancing counter-drone capabilities. This contract, valued between $30 million and $150 million, addresses the urgent need for affordable and effective munitions in response to increasing drone threats, particularly in ongoing operations in Iran. The modified Hydra-70 rockets will serve as a critical component in the U.S. Army's counter-UAS strategy.

iRocket was awarded a contract by the U.S. Army on June 8, 2023, to produce laser-guided components for Hydra-70 rockets, enhancing capabilities against low-cost drone threats. This initiative addresses the economic disparity between expensive U.S. interceptors and cheaper enemy drones. The production facility aims for a high output rate, targeting a significant increase in precision munitions availability for U.S. forces.

Roboze is advancing its integrated additive manufacturing ecosystem for defense applications across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The company is involved in the DIANA project, which focuses on secure digital infrastructures for producing spare parts near naval operational environments. This shift towards distributed and software-defined manufacturing aims to enhance operational resilience and reduce reliance on traditional logistics systems.

The U.S. Army has launched a new Mortars App to assist soldiers in accurately adjusting mortar fire using smartphones and tablets. The app received final approval in March 2023 and was rolled out in June 2023, replacing outdated systems. It has been tested by the 82nd Airborne Division, which adopted it with minimal training. The app is designed to be modular and user-friendly, compatible with various devices.

KONGSBERG signed a contract to deliver Joint Strike Missiles to the US Air Force, valued at NOK 2.7 billion. Deliveries are expected to be completed by the end of 2029. The JSM is a 5th generation stealth air-to-surface missile that can be carried internally in the F-35A.

Palladyne AI has been licensed by Israel Aerospace Industries to manufacture Harpy, Harop, and Mini-Harpy drones in Washington, targeting the US Army's Long Range Precision Munitions competition. The drones will be upgraded with autonomous swarming AI and are expected to compete for a prototype contract worth $100-$200 million by October 2026.

Iran launched waves of ballistic missiles at Israeli air bases Nevatim and Tel Nof on June 8, 2026, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard executed the strikes as part of Operation Nasr, while Houthi rebels also participated by targeting central Israel. Israeli air defenses intercepted all incoming missiles, but debris caused damage in the West Bank. The incident follows a series of provocations and marks the 100th day of the Iran-Israel war.

KONGSBERG signed a contract to deliver Joint Strike Missiles to the US Air Force, valued at approximately NOK 2.7 billion. The deliveries are expected to be completed by the end of 2029. The JSM is a 5th generation stealth air-to-surface missile that can be carried internally in the F-35A, enhancing the aircraft's low-signature capabilities. The missile has also been selected by several other countries including Japan and Germany.

U.S. President Trump issued a memorandum on June 5, 2023, directing the military to accelerate the use of artificial intelligence while ensuring civil liberties are protected. The memorandum calls for updates to autonomous weapon systems and emphasizes oversight. Concerns about AI's military applications have risen, particularly in light of recent conflicts. The U.S. government is also considering investments in AI companies to enhance military capabilities.

The U.S. Army awarded a contract to General Dynamics for the development of a precision artillery shell capable of hitting targets 70 kilometers away. This shell is based on the Vulcano 155 system already in use by Germany and Italy. The production will be transitioned to American facilities to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities. The new munition incorporates advanced guidance systems for improved targeting precision.

The U.S. Army and Lockheed Martin successfully tested the GRIZZLY system, a new anti-drone weapon, at the Yuma Proving Ground in Arizona on June 3. The system shot down a mid-sized aerial drone using an AGM-179 JAGM missile, demonstrating its capability as a low-cost, modular point-defense solution. The GRIZZLY launcher, resembling a shipping container, can be deployed quickly and is designed to protect bases from low-cost drones.

DARPA announced plans on June 5, 2026, to develop a Lightweight Universal Codec (LUC) aimed at enhancing military communications by enabling interoperability across various error correction standards. This initiative, led by Allyson O’Brien, seeks to create a single encoder-decoder system that can adapt to changing battlefield conditions, improving efficiency and reducing power consumption for military operations.