Analysis & Reports

Eastern NATO states, including Poland, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, and Finland, are significantly increasing their military readiness and defense spending in response to perceived threats, while Western Europe remains hesitant. The U.S. National Defense Strategy calls for European nations to assume greater responsibility for their defense by 2027. Poland leads with a defense spending of 4.5% of GDP, and Estonia maintains a force of 43,000 soldiers, indicating a shift in military dynamics within NATO.

Dr. Klaus WeberTue Feb 24 2026Loading...

Saa'd defected from Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal Muslimeen to the Islamic State, triggering violent clashes in Burkina Faso. Malian forces neutralized 35 jihadists on February 9, while Nigerien forces arrested 28 suspects involved in arms trafficking. On February 13, 24 Nigerien soldiers were killed in an attack, and JNIM claimed responsibility for the deaths of 50 Burkinabè soldiers. The report highlights escalating violence and military operations in the Sahel region.

Marie DuboisTue Feb 24 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force has increased the production capacity of the B-21 Raider stealth bomber by 25%, with the first operational aircraft expected to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base in 2027. This decision, supported by $4.5 billion in funding, aims to enhance long-range strike capabilities and ensure faster delivery to combatant commanders. The Air Force plans to procure at least 100 B-21 aircraft to replace aging fleets.

The U.S. Air Force has accelerated the production of the B-21 Raider stealth bomber by 25%, with the first operational aircraft expected to arrive at Ellsworth Air Force Base in 2027. This decision, supported by $4.5 billion in funding, aims to enhance long-range strike capabilities and respond to emerging threats. The total planned procurement remains classified, but the Air Force targets at least 100 aircraft to replace aging fleets.

The U.S. military can sustain high-intensity airstrikes against Iran for 4-5 days, according to an Israeli intelligence official. The U.S. has deployed significant military forces to the Middle East, including the Lincoln Carrier Strike Group and the Ford Carrier Strike Group, which is currently in Greece. President Trump is weighing larger military actions if Iran does not make concessions, while experts warn of potential Iranian retaliation against U.S. assets in the region.

The U.S. Marine Corps has contracted Global Military Products for the delivery and testing of Scorpion Light mobile mortar systems, valued at up to $4.9 million. The systems will enhance mobility and fire support for light infantry in challenging terrains. The Scorpion Light can deploy and fire eight rounds in under two minutes, and it is designed for rapid insertion via V-22 Osprey aircraft. This contract marks a significant step in the Marine Corps' mortar modernization efforts.

Kongsberg Maritime signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with PT PAL Indonesia in Surabaya on 24 February 2026. This agreement aims to enhance energy efficiency and decarbonisation in Indonesia's maritime sector, marking a significant step in their partnership. The MoU aligns with Indonesia's goals for maritime modernization and was attended by key representatives, including the Norwegian Ambassador.

Zhuhai Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning for live-fire exercises in the South China Sea from February 25 to 27, prohibiting access to the area daily from 8 AM to 4 PM. The exercises will involve the use of live ammunition.

SNC was awarded the 'Doomsday Plane' contract in 2024, a role typically reserved for larger prime contractors. The company emphasized avoiding vendor lock and leveraging digital tools to enhance design and production processes. This shift highlights the increasing importance of mid-tier primes in the defense industrial base.

A new Type 09V nuclear-powered attack submarine has been identified at Bohai Shipyard in Huludao, China, and is expected to launch within the coming year. This submarine is part of China's broader effort to enhance its naval capabilities, with an estimated production rate of three new submarines annually. The Type 09V features advanced design elements and may be armed with the YJ-19 hypersonic missile, further boosting its operational capabilities.

Russian forces conducted massed infantry assaults across eastern Ukraine from February 21-23, 2026, focusing on multiple tactical areas including Kupyansk and Pokrovsk. Ukrainian forces executed counteroffensive operations, maintaining control of 97% of Kupyansk and utilizing advanced drone technology to strike deep into Russian territory. The operational tempo reflects ongoing attrition warfare, with significant casualties on both sides and challenges in Russian force generation.

Dmitri VolkovTue Feb 24 2026Loading...

Maj. Gen. Stephen Purdy has been reassigned as senior advisor to Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink in Washington, effective February 20. Tom Ainsworth will perform the duties of assistant secretary at SAF/SQ, while Brig. Gen. Panzenhagen takes on the role of military deputy. This leadership change comes as the Space Force anticipates a budget increase for fiscal 2027.

Demining soldiers from the 24th Chinese Peacekeeping Force successfully destroyed an unexploded mortar shell near the Israeli-Lebanese border. The operation involved identifying the ordnance, establishing a safety perimeter, and following strict disposal protocols. This action highlights the unit's professionalism and commitment to ensuring local safety.

The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps conducted military exercises in the southern coastal region on February 24. The exercises aimed to practice new tactics against existing threats and to maintain security in the area and its islands.

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.

Diehl Defence showcased the UGV Ziesel equipped with the PLATON autonomy kit at Enforce Tac 2026 in Nürnberg from February 23 to 25, 2026. This unmanned ground vehicle is designed for infantry support, capable of transporting heavy equipment and operating autonomously in challenging terrains. The Ziesel is currently being tested by several armed forces, including Germany and Ukraine, highlighting its strategic military applications.

The U.S. Navy's Ford aircraft carrier strike group has arrived in Crete as part of a significant military buildup in the Middle East amid rising tensions with Iran. Iran has officially denied a proposed temporary agreement with the U.S. that would involve halting its nuclear activities. The U.S. faces political challenges in defining its military objectives regarding Iran, complicating potential military action.

The Pentagon recalibrated its security policy, signaling a shift in European defense responsibilities during meetings in Brussels and Munich on February 12-14, 2026. U.S. officials emphasized the need for NATO allies to increase military spending and capabilities, with Poland leading the way. The U.S. will maintain a nuclear deterrent but reduce conventional forces in Europe, while European nations are encouraged to develop their own defense industries and capabilities.

Alexandra ReevesTue Feb 24 2026Loading...

Qirim Technology has launched the production of segmented airless wheels for military vehicles in Ukraine. These wheels are designed to eliminate punctures and enhance mobility across challenging terrains. They are currently being supplied to Ukrainian military units at no cost, with a focus on improving logistics and operational efficiency. The modular design allows for quick field repairs, making them suitable for unmanned ground vehicles and armored units.