Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Army has issued a request for the production of 133,014 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rockets by 2034, with deliveries starting in February 2030. This plan requires an increase in production capacity, as current manufacturer Lockheed Martin is already producing 14,000 rockets annually. The GMLRS rockets are vital for military operations, particularly in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where they have been effectively used against Russian forces.

Lockheed Martin received a $73.9 million contract from the U.S. Navy to deliver Indra Rigel radar systems for four Multi-Mission Surface Combatant ships for Saudi Arabia. The work will primarily take place in Madrid, Spain, and is expected to be completed by February 2031. This contract enhances the ships' situational awareness and survivability in contested waters, funded through Foreign Military Sales financing.

The U.S. Army awarded Elroy Air a $46 million contract to develop a hybrid-electric VTOL cargo drone in South San Francisco, California. The contract focuses on a Group IV unmanned aircraft system, with an estimated completion date of February 18, 2029. The Chaparral drone can carry over 500 pounds of cargo and has a range of 450 miles, enhancing logistical capabilities for military operations.

ZeroUSV unveiled the Oceanus17 USV, named The Lady of the Lake, in Plymouth on August 18. This new vessel features a payload capacity of 4,000kg and can operate for over 50 days. It will be deployed to Portugal for NATO Exercise REPMUS in September, showcasing its advanced autonomous capabilities.

Latvian manufacturer NEWT21 completed an EU-funded project to transition its FOG and RAY unmanned surface vehicles to production-ready status. The FOG is utilized by Ukraine's armed forces for reconnaissance, while the RAY is designed for logistics and surveillance missions. Both vehicles are now ready for standardized manufacturing and commercial rollout.

Houthi forces launched ballistic missiles at a Saudi Navy landing ship off Mocha on August 17, resulting in a fire on the ship and the sinking of several accompanying boats. This attack signifies a notable escalation in Houthi military operations against Saudi naval assets. The Saudi response has been silent, raising concerns about their ability to protect their maritime interests in the Red Sea.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Aug 18 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy launched 50 escort carriers from Kaiser Shipbuilding in Vancouver, Washington, between April 1943 and May 1944. The first, USS Casablanca, was launched on April 5, 1943, and the last, USS Munda, on May 27, 1944. The report highlights the logistical efficiency of WWII shipbuilding compared to the current challenges faced in constructing modern nuclear carriers.

North Korea deployed a missile unit of approximately 90 personnel to Voronezh, Russia, in August 2025, enhancing its missile capabilities through combat data obtained from the Ukraine war. The country has sent 40 KN-23 and KN-24 missiles to Russia, which have shown improved accuracy in combat, now landing within 50 to 100 meters of targets. North Korean troops have also engaged in combat alongside Russian forces, further solidifying military cooperation between the two nations.

The Chinese People's Liberation Army introduced the 96A main battle tank, showcasing its advanced fire control systems and capabilities to suppress enemy fire and destroy defenses. The tank features advanced composite armor and is designed for precision shooting in various conditions, enhancing battlefield effectiveness.

Iran is actively attempting to disrupt U.S. Navy operations in the Strait of Hormuz by targeting aircraft carriers and their flight decks. As of mid-August 2026, the U.S. Navy maintains a carrier strike group in the region, with approximately 5,000 personnel. Despite claims of missile strikes, no U.S. carrier has been confirmed hit. Shipping traffic through the Strait has been severely impacted due to ongoing attacks.

Ukrainian forces have not seen the operation of the Patriot missile system for several weeks due to a shortage of interceptors. The U.S. has consumed over 1,500 interceptors in military actions, leading to a significant reduction in supplies to Ukraine. President Zelensky has expressed concerns about the production scale of interceptors and hopes for U.S. authorization for local manufacturing, despite logistical challenges.

Poland held its largest Armed Forces Day parade in Warsaw on August 15, 2023, commemorating the 106th anniversary of the Battle of Warsaw. Approximately 2000 soldiers showcased over 300 pieces of military equipment, including the K2 Black Panther tanks and F-35A fighter jets. A separate maritime parade in Gdynia featured over 20 naval vessels. The event emphasized Poland's military capabilities and included participation from military representatives of allied nations.

The U.S. Navy is considering significant modifications to the design of a new aircraft carrier to align with President Trump's aesthetic preferences. This includes potentially moving the command center to the middle of the ship and reintroducing steam catapults. The redesign could incur costs in the billions and delay the shipbuilding program.

Ukraine's Luch Design Bureau is developing the Freya missile system, expected to be operational by mid-2027, with plans to produce at least 2000 units in the first year. The system aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to the U.S. Patriot missiles, which Ukraine currently struggles to procure. The project involves collaboration with multiple European partners, enhancing Ukraine's defense capabilities against Russian missile threats.

On October 17, the U.S. military announced a $22.9 billion contract with Raytheon to purchase Tomahawk cruise missiles. This contract aims to accelerate production to meet military demands, increasing the annual output to over 1,000 missiles from the current rate of about 60. The U.S. missile inventory is under pressure due to ongoing conflicts, necessitating this procurement.

PLA scholars reviewed the Iran conflict, emphasizing the effectiveness of low-cost drones against expensive interceptors. They noted the transition to AI-enabled warfare and the importance of supply chain targets in military strategy. The analysis highlighted lessons learned regarding defense economics and operational resilience.

Li MinghuiTue Aug 18 2026Loading...

Australia and Japan successfully conducted field trials of the Boobook high-energy laser system at the Cultana Training Area and Edinburgh in South Australia. This project marks the first co-development between the two nations' defense industries, aimed at enhancing surveillance capabilities. Mitsubishi Electric Australia is investing $70 million to support large-scale manufacturing of the system, reflecting a growing defense partnership between Australia and Japan.

Marine Group Boat Works delivered a new Range Support Vessel to the U.S. Navy for operations on the Point Mugu Sea Range in Southern California. The vessel is designed to support weapons testing and evaluation, including missiles and electronic warfare systems. It features a large aft deck for launching targets and a hydraulic crane for target recovery. The delivery reflects the company's capabilities in building specialized maritime assets for military operations.

Japan and Australia have initiated discussions to allow Japan’s Self-Defense Forces to utilize Australian test ranges for long-range missile tests. This agreement, confirmed by defense ministers from both countries, aims to enhance Japan's counterstrike capabilities, including the development of the Type-12 missile and hypersonic weapons. This marks a significant step in Japan's military cooperation with Australia, following a similar agreement with the United States.

Houthi forces attacked a Saudi naval landing ship and four accompanying military boats near Mocha in the Red Sea on August 17, using multiple ballistic missiles. The landing ship caught fire and several military boats were reported sunk. As of now, there has been no response from Saudi authorities.