Analysis & Reports

The U.S. has maintained a ban on the export of F-22 Raptors since the 1998 Obey amendment, despite interest from allies like Japan and Australia. The production of the F-22 was capped at 187 operational aircraft, with the final delivery occurring in 2012. The decision to restrict exports was driven by concerns over technology proliferation and the aircraft's advanced capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bombers conducted exercises at Whiteman Air Force Base on November 7, 2022, demonstrating their readiness for nuclear operations. The B-2 can carry up to 16 nuclear gravity bombs, including the B61-12 and B83-1, which offer various yield options. Its stealth capability allows for discreet approaches to targets, enhancing its role in military strategy.

The USS Enterprise is undergoing dismantling at Modern American Recycling and Radiological Services in Mobile, Alabama, since 2012. The US Navy has incurred over $1 billion in costs for this process, which is the first commercial scrapping of a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier. The dismantling serves as a pilot program for future Nimitz-class carrier dismantlements, with the Navy aiming to streamline the process.

Iran's Atomic Energy Organization Chairman announced that any inspections of nuclear facilities that have been attacked must receive legal approval from the Iranian parliament. He emphasized that all such facilities are registered with the IAEA and have been inspected previously. The IAEA's credibility is under scrutiny due to its failure to condemn the attacks, while the U.S. and Israel are pressuring the agency to evaluate the impact of their military actions.

Ukrainian armed forces conducted a drone strike on a vehicle in the Luhansk region on August 26, resulting in 9 deaths and 6 injuries. The attack targeted a bus traveling on a highway, with 8 individuals dying instantly and 1 later succumbing to injuries. Russian authorities are currently investigating the consequences of this strike.

The U.S. Navy is facing significant challenges in decommissioning its nuclear-powered submarines, with costs ranging from $50 million to $100 million per submarine. The fleet has decreased from 66 to 49 submarines, projected to drop to 47 by 2028, while the decommissioning process is delayed due to backlogged shipyards. The Department of Energy is involved in the disposal of nuclear reactor cores, and the Navy is now contracting private-sector shipbreakers to manage the workload.

The U.S. Navy is adapting its resupply strategies following the USS Abraham Lincoln's extended deployment, which faced significant logistical challenges. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle announced plans to explore new port call locations, including Kenya, Diego Garcia, and India, to improve resupply efforts. The Navy is also addressing issues related to sailor welfare, including shortages of hygiene products and food during deployments.

Three Marines from the 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines were awarded medals for their valor during a suicide bomb attack at Abbey Gate, Kabul, on August 14, 2021. Lance Cpl. Jordan Houston, Gunny Sgt. Jonathan Eby, and Cpl. Michael Gretzon demonstrated exceptional courage under fire, with Houston treating casualties while injured. The attack resulted in the deaths of 13 U.S. service members and around 170 Afghans.

The U.S. Army is investing billions in nuclear microreactors at military bases, selecting five companies for development at locations including Fort Bragg and Fort Hood. This initiative aims to enhance energy resilience and reduce reliance on civilian power grids, with operational reactors expected by September 30, 2028. The contracts, part of the Janus program, total up to $2.2 billion and focus on providing reliable power for military operations.

The U.S. Air Force proposed the development of the FB-22, a stealth bomber variant of the F-22 Raptor, which would have cost $30 billion and featured a combat radius of 1,800 miles. The aircraft was designed to carry 15,000 pounds of weapons and could have enhanced U.S. strike capabilities in regional conflicts. However, it would have required significant trade-offs in terms of existing fighter numbers and long-range strike funding.

The US Army awarded contracts to five companies for the development of nuclear microreactor prototypes, with a total funding of $2.2 billion. The goal is to have at least one microreactor operational at an Army installation by September 30, 2028. Locations include Fort Bragg, Fort Campbell, Fort Hood, Fort Benning, and Fort Drum, with Radiant potentially receiving up to $750 million for its designs.

Chinese J-16 fighter jets engaged in air combat training with French Dassault Rafale fighters over Egypt on August 23, 2026, as part of the 'Eagles of Civilization' joint exercise. The exercise involved multiple aircraft types and included technical briefings for pilots. This marks the first deployment of J-16 fighters to Africa, showcasing China's military capabilities in a joint training environment with Egypt and France.

The Pentagon is actively working to confirm Gen. Christopher LaNeve's nomination for Chief of Staff of the Army in Washington, facing hesitations from some Senate lawmakers. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll may soon exit his position, potentially leaving the Army without Senate-confirmed leaders. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth supports LaNeve, emphasizing his leadership qualities amid political opposition.

U.S. forces deployed over 600 M48 Patton tanks in Vietnam during the Vietnam War, utilizing them extensively against Soviet-supplied adversaries. The M48, equipped with a 105mm gun, demonstrated significant combat capabilities and was also supplied to the South Vietnamese Army. Israel later employed M48 tanks effectively in the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War, showcasing their versatility in various conflicts.

The U.S. Army is seeking to procure 8,000 new short-range missiles annually, with initial deliveries expected within two years after contract award. The missiles must integrate with various platforms and operate under jamming conditions. Contractors are required to provide evidence of their production capabilities by the deadline of September 15.

The US Air Force awarded Boeing a contract valued at up to $131.2 billion for the production and sustainment of F-15 fighter jets, expected to conclude by August 2037. This contract aims to enhance capabilities for both the US and international partners, including countries like Israel and Japan. The deal reflects the Air Force's commitment to the F-15EX variant amid rising demand and ongoing upgrades.

In November 2011, the Royal Australian Air Force buried 23 F-111 fuselages in a coal mine at Swanbank, Queensland, due to asbestos concerns. The aircraft, which had been a vital part of Australia's air power for 37 years, were stripped of usable parts before burial. This disposal method was mandated by military agreements and aimed to eliminate health risks associated with the hazardous materials in the aircraft.

The F/A-18 Super Hornet has been a vital asset for the U.S. Navy, logging 12 million flight hours and playing crucial roles in various military operations, including the recent conflict in Iran. While it lacks the stealth capabilities of newer models like the F-35, it remains versatile and reliable, capable of conducting a wide range of missions. The aircraft's operational history includes significant engagements in the Global War on Terror and other conflicts.

The U.S. Navy is seeking companies to develop the Silent Anvil Air-Launched Torpedo (SAA-LT) at Kadena Air Base, Japan, as of June 5, 2026. This new torpedo is designed to be launched from aircraft and drones from a distance to target enemy submarines. Companies must respond by September 29, 2026, with a working prototype expected within 18 months of an agreement.

Admiral Darryl Caudle praised the efficiency of the Ford-class aircraft carrier's aircraft operations in Reno, Nevada, highlighting a 20%-30% improvement over Nimitz-class carriers. This statement coincides with President Trump's request for design changes to the Ford-class carriers, including a switch to steam catapults. Experts caution that these modifications could lead to significant redesign costs and impact operational capabilities.