Analysis & Reports

Israel has upgraded its F-35I Adir stealth fighter with new fuel tanks and additional weapon capabilities, enhancing its range for strikes against Iranian targets. This modification allows the aircraft to operate independently with reduced reliance on aerial refueling, addressing the challenge of reaching targets over 1,000 miles away. The Israeli Air Force's enhancements reflect its strategic focus on maintaining independent military capabilities amid rising tensions with Iran.

Elbit Systems Ltd. announced the awarding of contracts valued at approximately $277 million for the supply of 30 mm turrets and munitions. The contracts, which will be executed over three years, involve the UT30 MK2 turret, designed for both manned and unmanned configurations. This announcement was made on February 18, 2026, in Haifa, Israel.

Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University showcased new unmanned systems at the World Defense Show in Riyadh. These include a tracked unmanned ground vehicle (UGV), quadruped robots, an unmanned surface vessel (USV), and a remotely operated vehicle (ROV), all designed for military applications. The UGV can carry significant payloads and is being developed for increased autonomy, while the USV is intended for intelligence and reconnaissance missions.

The U.S. Navy is enhancing air defense capabilities around its aircraft carriers to counter increasing threats from missiles, drones, and submarines, particularly from China. The Navy is considering deploying escort ships equipped with lasers to improve defense against mass attacks. Each carrier is equipped with 100 to 125 interceptor missiles, which may not suffice in saturation scenarios. The USS Gerald R. Ford has been deployed to the Central Command area to deter Iran, while China continues to develop advanced anti-ship capabilities.

Saudi Arabia contracted four C-27J maritime patrol aircraft from Italian firm Leonardo to enhance its naval capabilities. The delivery of these aircraft is expected to commence in 2029, marking a significant step in the Kingdom's naval modernization efforts. This acquisition follows a previous procurement of two C-27J aircraft for commercial use and is aimed at improving maritime domain awareness and operational reach against regional threats.

The U.S. Navy's Abraham Lincoln carrier is positioned off the coast of Oman, while Iranian naval drills continue in the Hormuz Strait. Russian forces have intensified missile strikes on Ukraine's energy infrastructure, launching over 400 attacks recently. The U.S. aims to deter Iranian aggression and maintain military readiness in the region.

The F-14 Tomcat, F-4 Phantom II, and MiG-21 Fishbed represent pivotal advancements in Cold War aviation, each shaped by distinct military doctrines. The F-14, with its advanced missile capabilities, and the versatile F-4, which learned critical lessons in Vietnam, contrast with the enduring MiG-21, still operational in various air forces today. Their legacies continue to influence modern fighter design and air combat strategies.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 18 2026Loading...

Elbit Systems secured a $277 million contract for the supply of 30 mm turrets and associated munitions from an undisclosed international customer on February 18, 2026. The contract, which will be executed over three years, includes the delivery of the UT30 MK2 turret designed to enhance the firepower and survivability of armored personnel carriers. The turret can operate in both manned and unmanned configurations and is part of a broader trend towards modular upgrades in armored vehicle systems.

On February 16, 2026, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) fired live missiles into the Strait of Hormuz during a military exercise, signaling its readiness to close the strait if necessary. This coincided with Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi's attendance at nuclear negotiations in Geneva, highlighting Iran's dual strategy of military coercion and diplomatic engagement. The exercise temporarily suspended shipping traffic in the critical energy corridor.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Feb 17 2026Loading...

The World Defense Show occurred outside Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, showcasing various military themes and equipment. Numerous defense contractors and military organizations participated, highlighting advancements in small arms and other military equipment. This event reflects ongoing interests in defense procurement and military capabilities.

Israel's F-16I Sufa fighter jet is designed for long-range, high-complexity strike missions, featuring advanced avionics and a specialized electronic warfare suite. It incorporates conformal fuel tanks for extended range and is equipped with Israeli-developed weapons, including Python and Derby missiles. The aircraft is operated by the Israeli Air Force and is tailored to meet specific regional threats.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) conducted military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz, partially closing the vital shipping route for security reasons. The exercises involved the use of naval mines and missiles, demonstrating Iran's capability to disrupt maritime traffic. This action is part of ongoing tensions in the region, with potential implications for global oil markets and military responses from Western forces.

Xinxing Import and Export Company showcased the XX-20 unmanned cargo aircraft at the World Defense Show in Riyadh. This aircraft can operate from rough terrain and is designed for logistical support, capable of carrying 1.2 tonnes of supplies. A new version, the XX-20.1, is expected to be released in mid-2026, with Malaysia as its first export customer.

The F-15I Ra’am, used by the Israeli Air Force since the late 1990s, is optimized for long-range precision strikes, featuring Israeli-specific avionics and heavy payload capabilities. In contrast, the U.S. Air Force's F-15EX Eagle II focuses on air superiority and modernization for fifth-generation aircraft support. Both aircraft represent different operational philosophies and requirements within their respective air forces.

Israel has customized its F-35I Adir fighter jets to enhance electronic warfare capabilities against Iranian threats. The Israeli Air Force is set to acquire an additional 25 F-35 stealth fighters in 2024, reflecting its focus on regional security. These modifications include advanced jamming systems and integration of Israeli weapons, enabling effective countermeasures against ground-based air defenses.

Turkey and Saudi Arabia signed multiple defense agreements in February 2026, focusing on the joint development of the KAAN fighter jet and other military platforms. The agreements signal a strategic partnership aimed at reducing reliance on Western military supplies. The KAAN jet is still under development, with first deliveries not expected before 2029, while Saudi Arabia aims for 50% localization of defense production by 2030.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Feb 17 2026Loading...

AirShields showcased its Sphere AI-based counter-drone solution at the World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia in 2026. The system includes the Barq™ mini missile and Jidar™ bomb, designed to neutralize various classes of drones. The Barq™ missile has a range of 2 km, while the Jidar™ bomb can target larger drones and swarms. The technology is developed in Saudi Arabia and is in full production.

Elbit Systems reported record global demand for its Laser Target Designator systems in 2025, reflecting a growing reliance on precision targeting in military operations. The systems, compliant with NATO standards, are increasingly utilized across land and airborne platforms for real-time target designation. This demand is driven by the need for faster targeting cycles and improved coordination in modern battlefield dynamics, particularly with the rise of drone usage.

The General Authority for Defense Development (GADD) of Saudi Arabia unveiled the LTM 10 loitering munition and ARB free-fall ordnance at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in 2026. The LTM 10 is a man-portable system with a range of 15 km and a 15-minute endurance, while the ARB is designed for UAV deployment with various warhead options.

Saudi Arabia is purchasing four C-27J tactical air lifters for armed maritime patrols, with deliveries expected to start in 2029. The aircraft will be equipped to carry torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and depth charges, and will also serve in search-and-rescue missions. This marks the first use of the C-27J in an armed maritime patrol configuration.