Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Space Force plans to invest in disaggregating ground-based space operations and establishing tactical electronic warfare centers, following vulnerabilities exposed during Operation Epic Fury. In 2027, the service will increase military personnel by 2,800 and civilians by over 2,000, with a budget allocation of $1 billion for new space operations centers across four bases. The classified budget request for FY27 reaches $17.3 billion, indicating a significant expansion in capabilities.

The U.S. Army tested a Tactical Resupply Vehicle (TRV 150) drone at Fort Rucker, Alabama, integrating a three-shot rocket system to fire 70mm rockets. This development aims to enhance the drone's capabilities for logistics and combat support. The project has been in development since January 2025, with the APKWS system previously used on Apache helicopters. The initiative reflects a push to accelerate drone technology and streamline military operations.

The U.S. Army tested a Tactical Resupply Vehicle (TRV 150) drone at Fort Rucker, Alabama, integrating a new capability to fire 70 millimeter rockets. This testing aims to enhance the drone's functionality beyond logistics. The Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) was successfully mounted and fired during the experiment, which has been in development since January 2025.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius promoted the Type 212CD submarines at the CANSEC defense exhibition in Ottawa, emphasizing the economic benefits of the deal. The contract, potentially worth C$60 billion, aims to enhance NATO's northern flank capabilities. Pistorius's visit marks a shift in Germany's approach to arms exports, as he seeks to secure a joint bid with Norway for up to 12 submarines. A decision from the Canadian government is anticipated by early July.

The Defense Innovation Unit awarded Hermeus an additional $159 million for the development of the Quarterhorse drone in Washington. This funding will support flight tests scheduled for this year and in 2027, with the drone designed to carry payloads at speeds up to Mach 3. Hermeus aims to produce 12 to 15 drones annually, with military applications supported by the Air Force and Navy.

The U.S. Navy plans to build 15 Trump-class battleships over the next 30 years to enhance its missile capacity and incorporate advanced technologies like lasers and rail guns. The initial phase includes three ships between fiscal years 2027 and 2031, with an estimated cost of $43.5 billion. This initiative aims to address the limitations of current destroyers and improve the Navy's overall combat capabilities.

INKAS® Defense and Aerospace unveiled the INKAS® MLTV and ANURI UAV at CANSEC 2026 in Ottawa on May 28, 2026. The MLTV is a modular light tactical vehicle designed for various military missions, while the ANURI UAV is an AI-powered interceptor for drone threats, capable of rapid deployment and high-speed operation.

FN Browning Group announced the acquisition of Accuracy International on 28 May 2026, enhancing its capabilities in precision bolt-action rifle systems. This strategic move strengthens the UK's defense industrial base and ensures continued access to advanced military equipment. The acquisition is expected to increase export opportunities and reinforce the UK's sovereign defense capabilities.

Canada announced the purchase of six GlobalEye early warning and control aircraft from Saab, valued at over $5 billion CAN, to enhance military capabilities and support domestic defense production. Prime Minister Mark Carney made the announcement on May 27, 2025, at the CANSEC defense trade show in Ottawa. The GlobalEye will strengthen Canada's surveillance capabilities, particularly in the Arctic, and at least one-third of the aircraft orders for allies will be manufactured in Canada.

The Pentagon plans to allocate $50 billion for drone development and production in 2023, enhancing procurement processes and fostering partnerships with new technology companies. At Camp Atterbury, defense officials discussed the expansion of drone capabilities and the establishment of an autonomous-warfare unit within U.S. Southern Command to improve data networks for effective drone use. The initiative includes collaborations with startups and aims to scale up existing drone production.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. and the U.S. Air Force demonstrated advanced Manned-Unmanned Teaming with the F-35 Lightning II and MQ-20 Avenger in San Diego on 27 May 2026. The exercise showcased the integration of tactical autonomy commands via the TacACE software, enabling seamless coordination between the aircraft. This milestone highlights the future of collaborative air combat missions and operational readiness for Collaborative Combat Aircraft.

Saab signed a teaming agreement with CAE to jointly pursue Canada's Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) programme based on the GlobalEye platform. This partnership aims to enhance training and simulation solutions for the Canadian Armed Forces, reflecting a commitment to strengthen Canada's defense capabilities. The agreement was announced in November 2025 and underscores the companies' ambition to deepen their collaboration.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. and the U.S. Air Force conducted a flight test on 27 May 2026 in San Diego, demonstrating advanced Manned-Unmanned Teaming between the F-35 Lightning II and MQ-20 Avenger. The test showcased the integration of tactical autonomy software and Beyond Line of Sight communications, marking a significant milestone in operational readiness for Collaborative Combat Aircraft.

The U.S. Army awarded BAE Systems a contract on May 27 to develop the ROOK electronic warfare system, designed to protect ground combat vehicles from missiles and drones. This soft-kill system will jam and confuse incoming threats, offering an infinite magazine depth. The contract also includes funding for further development of next-generation countermeasure systems, emphasizing the Army's commitment to enhancing vehicle survivability against evolving threats.

Canada's Prime Minister Carney announced on the 27th that the Canadian Armed Forces will procure Swedish military reconnaissance aircraft, abandoning U.S. suppliers. The Saab GlobalEye aircraft was selected over U.S. competitors, reflecting a shift in Canada's defense procurement policy. The government is also assessing its future purchases of F-35 fighter jets from the U.S., although Carney stated these decisions are unrelated.

U.S. Special Operations Command is establishing a new drone testing ground at NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Mississippi to enhance capabilities in autonomous warfare. This initiative, part of a broader Pentagon strategy, aims to address gaps in counter-drone technology and improve military readiness. A collaboration event for military officials and industry stakeholders is scheduled for July 2025 to discuss further developments.

The U.S. Navy plans to retire 46 ships, including 2 aircraft carriers, by 2031, reducing its fleet to 288 warships. Concurrently, China is expanding its naval capabilities, aiming for 9 aircraft carriers by 2035. This shift raises concerns about U.S. military readiness amid growing naval requirements and potential conflict with China.

The U.S. Army has received its first batch of new, lightweight Javelin launchers, enhancing its capabilities. The Lightweight Command Launch Unit is 30% smaller and 25% lighter than older models, with improved target detection range. RTX announced plans to ramp up production and has invested $22 million to upgrade its facilities. This development follows the U.S. Army's historical use of Javelins in previous conflicts.

Canada is negotiating with Saab for the procurement of approximately six GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Mark Carney at CANSEC, with Saab confirmed as the preferred supplier. The program aims to enhance the Royal Canadian Air Force's surveillance capabilities, particularly in remote areas like the Arctic.

Canada has selected Saab as the preferred supplier for its future AEW&C capability, initiating discussions and negotiations. This decision was announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney at CANSEC, Canada’s largest defense trade show. Saab will provide the GlobalEye system, which enhances monitoring capabilities for the Royal Canadian Air Force, and aims to invest in Canadian defense industry development.