Analysis & Reports

The B-2 Spirit remains the only bomber capable of delivering the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator to destroy deeply buried nuclear facilities in Iran as of June 2025. With only 19 units in service, the U.S. Air Force relies on this stealth bomber for its unique capabilities in penetrating advanced air defenses. The B-2's operational range allows it to project air power globally, making it a critical asset in U.S. military strategy.

U.S. Vice President Vance announced that evidence indicates Iran is attempting to rebuild its nuclear program following U.S. airstrikes in June. On February 25, 2023, President Trump claimed that Iran has developed missiles capable of threatening Europe and U.S. bases. In response, Iran's Foreign Ministry labeled the U.S. accusations as falsehoods.

Aselsan reported $4.11 billion in revenue for 2025, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. The Turkish defense electronics company secured over $2 billion in new export contracts, including a $410 million deal with Poland for electronic warfare systems. Additionally, Aselsan's backlog rose to $20.4 billion, reflecting a 46% increase. The company emphasized its focus on air defense systems and invested significantly in research and development.

The M60A3 Patton tank remains operational in 2026, having undergone significant modernization to enhance its combat capabilities. It serves in various military forces, including those of Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Taiwan. The tank's upgrades, such as the laser rangefinder and Tank Thermal Sight, have ensured its relevance on the battlefield.

The U.S. Navy is deploying EA-18G Growler aircraft to conduct electronic warfare against Iranian air defenses as part of a potential air campaign in 2026. This follows a €500 million deal between Russia and Iran for advanced air defense systems. The Growlers will utilize the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System to suppress enemy defenses, while the presence of modern Russian weaponry poses challenges to their mission.

USS Gerald R. Ford is deploying to Haifa, Israel, to join USS Abraham Lincoln in response to escalating tensions with Iran. The F-35C Lightning II aircraft aboard these carriers are expected to provide air superiority and electronic warfare capabilities, enhancing the U.S. Navy's operational reach and effectiveness against Iranian air defenses. The deployment underscores the strategic importance of advanced naval aviation in potential conflict scenarios.

Iran prepares to launch missile salvos against U.S. bases at Al Udeid, Al Dhafra, and Prince Sultan Air Base if conflict arises. The Iranian Armed Forces aim to disrupt U.S. operations using Fateh-110 and Zolfaghar missiles. While U.S. defenses are in place, the initial hours of conflict present a significant threat to American military infrastructure.

Iran has rebuilt its missile arsenal, now estimated at 1,500 ballistic missiles and 200 launchers, capable of producing several hundred missiles monthly. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has launched missile attacks against targets in Iraq, Syria, and Pakistan from 2024 to 2025, demonstrating the operational use of their missile capabilities. The arsenal includes various models, with some capable of reaching Israel and U.S. bases in the region.

On the 25th, the Israeli Defense Forces reported discovering and dismantling multiple Hezbollah military facilities in Southern Lebanon, including observation posts and anti-tank weapons. These actions are part of ongoing operations to prevent Hezbollah from rearming, which the IDF claims violates the ceasefire agreement with Lebanon. Hezbollah has not yet responded to these allegations.

ImageSat International is advancing the KNIGHT satellite program, which features high-resolution imaging and SWIR capabilities for effective monitoring in low-visibility conditions. The satellite is set to enhance operational flexibility for defense and security users, with a planned launch in 2027. It integrates advanced AI for real-time data processing and autonomous operations, ensuring continuous performance improvements.

The U.S. military has deployed two carrier strike groups and 108 air refueling tankers to the Persian Gulf and surrounding regions in February 2026, preparing for potential military operations against Iran. This includes various strike options targeting Iran's nuclear and missile infrastructure, with significant logistical support from aerial refueling capabilities. The deployment of E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft indicates expectations of contested airspace, while cyber assets are positioned to disrupt Iranian command and control.

Marcus ChenWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

The U.S. military is currently gathering forces in the Middle East, preparing for potential airstrikes against Iran. Over 270 aircraft, including advanced fighters and bombers, are deployed, supported by two aircraft carrier strike groups. The U.S. plans to target Iranian military installations, while Iran is reinforcing its defenses in response to the escalating situation.

The U.S. military is preparing for potential aerial strikes against Iran, with nearly half of its deployable air power already sent to the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford is on an extended deployment in the Mediterranean, while the Pentagon has evacuated non-essential personnel from Lebanon. Additionally, the U.S. military conducted a boat strike in the Caribbean, killing three individuals involved in drug trafficking. President Trump is considering an initial strike to pressure Iran regarding its nuclear capabilities.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps conducted military exercises in southern Iran on February 24, 2023, testing new technologies and multi-layered firepower deployment. The exercises featured precision fire strikes and were held in the context of increasing U.S. military threats. The drills took place in southern Iran and the Persian Gulf Islands, showcasing the capabilities of new weapons.

The U.S. is assembling its largest concentration of airpower in the Middle East since 2003, with two carrier strike groups and numerous fighter squadrons deployed. This buildup, which began in late January and is expected to be complete by mid-March, aims to prepare for potential military strikes on Iran. The operation highlights a shift in air control responsibilities to joint forces, including the Army and Navy, as the Air Force's traditional role evolves.

The U.S. is assembling a significant military presence in the Middle East, including two carrier strike groups and various air and naval assets, in preparation for potential military action against Iran. This buildup, which began in late January, aims to achieve air control through a joint effort involving the Army and Navy, with full operational capability expected by mid-March. Analysts argue that the Air Force's current procurement strategy does not adequately address the need for sustained airpower.

Elbit Systems will supply the Helmet Display and Tracking System (HDTS) for the Israeli Air Force's UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter fleet on February 24, 2026. The HDTS enhances operational capabilities and flight safety by providing advanced 3D Synthetic Vision Symbology, improving situational awareness in degraded visual environments. This system integrates with various sensors to support safe operations in all weather conditions.

Elbit Systems is supplying its Helmet Display and Tracking System (HDTS) to the Israeli Air Force for integration into the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter fleet. This system enhances operational capability and flight safety, particularly in degraded visual environments. The HDTS provides advanced synthetic vision symbology, improving situational awareness for pilots during critical flight phases.

Russia is significantly enhancing its drone warfare capabilities in the Arctic, producing over 1.5 million drones annually. NATO is inadequately prepared for these operations, facing institutional and technical challenges. Concurrently, the EU is financing defense expenditures through collective debt, with Germany planning a substantial investment in its defense budget. Five European nations have initiated a program to develop cost-effective air defense systems, indicating a shift in European defense policy towards greater autonomy.

Dr. Klaus WeberMon Feb 23 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy has positioned two carrier strike groups in the Persian Gulf, marking the largest military buildup in the region since 2003. Preparations for potential military action against Iran are underway, with U.S. forces ready for strikes as early as this weekend. Gulf Arab states express deep concerns about the implications of a major conflict on their territories, while Iran has enhanced its military capabilities in response. Economic impacts are already being felt, with stock markets declining and oil prices rising.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Feb 23 2026Loading...