Analysis & Reports

President Trump ordered the United States Navy to plan the removal of the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) from the USS Doris Miller, a Ford-class aircraft carrier under construction, on April 8, 2017. This decision is causing complications in standardization and procurement processes, as it diverges from the design of other Ford-class carriers. The Navy faces potential delays and increased costs due to the need for specialized training and maintenance for the Doris Miller.

Russian forces attacked Ukrainian military targets in Odesa on October 17, while Ukrainian forces struck a factory in Rostov Oblast, destroying two explosive production workshops. Over the past 24 hours, Russian troops reported control over two settlements in Donetsk and Zaporizhzhia regions, and Ukrainian forces claimed to have destroyed 2093 drones and various military equipment.

Sweden developed a nuclear bomber, the Saab A-36, during the 1950s amid Cold War tensions. The project aimed to create a tactical nuclear capability but was canceled due to budget constraints. Sweden's nuclear weapons program was ultimately shut down in the 1960s, and the country later joined NATO, aligning its defense strategy with Western powers against perceived threats from Russia.

Germany's Bundeswehr began accepting the new Leopard 2A8 tank in April 2023, which incorporates advanced features such as the Trophy active-protection system and improved electronics. The tank is designed to enhance battlefield survivability against modern threats, reflecting lessons learned from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. It retains its 120mm main gun while utilizing optimized ammunition for better performance.

Ukrainian Armed Forces attacked Russian military facilities related to attack drones in Crimea and Kherson on August 17. The strikes targeted storage, launch, and control sites, resulting in fires at the locations. Ukrainian forces plan to persist in their operations against key Russian military targets.

Russia's Sukhoi Design Bureau is developing the Su-57D, a two-seat variant of the Su-57 fighter, which will incorporate 6th-generation combat technologies. The aircraft successfully flew in May, and Russian officials, including First Deputy Prime Minister Denis Manturov, have highlighted its high priority. This development follows India's withdrawal from a cooperative program for a similar aircraft due to technology transfer concerns.

The Chengdu J-36 stealth fighter prototypes have been spotted in flight from December 2024 to July 2026, showcasing various design changes. The aircraft features a tailless diamond-wing design, three engines, and is speculated to serve as a medium-range tactical aircraft or regional bomber. China is expediting the J-36 program, indicating a strong commitment to advancing its military aviation capabilities.

Japan's Taigei-class submarine, measuring 84 meters and displacing 3,000 tons surfaced, utilizes lithium-ion batteries for enhanced stealth and performance. It is designed for operations in the narrow seas of the First Island Chain and features advanced sonar technology. This submarine represents a significant advancement in Japan's undersea warfare capabilities, complementing US naval forces in regional defense.

Russian forces shot down 1478 Ukrainian drones in a single day, marking the largest drone assault on Moscow. Concurrently, Russia targeted Ukrainian defense companies, including Fire Point, which produces hundreds of drones and missiles. Ukrainian attacks on Russian logistics hubs have disrupted supply chains, resulting in civilian casualties. Fire Point is also developing a new ballistic missile with a range capable of striking Moscow.

The U.S. Air Force tested the F-15EX Eagle II at Eglin Air Force Base on March 11, 2024. This advanced fighter jet, capable of executing 87 billion operations per second, is designed for air superiority and can carry a payload of 29,500 pounds. It features cutting-edge avionics and electronic warfare systems, enhancing its operational capabilities alongside stealth fighters.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking to acquire target drones capable of mimicking a range of aircraft, including stealth fighters and bombers, with a focus on cost-effective and easily manufactured designs. The Request for Information has a deadline of September 28, emphasizing the need for drones that can simulate various capabilities and threats.

The U.S. Navy considered the Super Tomcat 21 as a potential upgrade to the F-14 Tomcat, which was retired in 2006. However, the Navy ultimately chose the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet due to its lower costs and maintenance requirements. The Super Tomcat 21 promised enhanced range and payload capabilities but was never developed or produced.

The U.S. Navy considered the Super Tomcat 21, an upgraded version of the F-14 Tomcat, as a potential long-range fighter but ultimately chose the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet due to cost and maintenance factors. The Super Tomcat 21 promised enhanced range and payload but was never produced, and the F-14 was retired in 2006 after a long service.

Helsing is collaborating with Rakuten to finalize a deal for selling unmanned systems to Japan's army, with the Ground Self-Defense Forces currently testing the HX-2 strike drone. The field tests are scheduled to continue until the end of September. Rakuten's involvement aims to facilitate greater participation of startups in Japan's defense industry, addressing barriers to entry.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading its fleet of 195 F-22 Raptors to extend their operational lifespan until 2060. These upgrades include enhancements to weapons systems, avionics, and structural integrity, allowing the aircraft to remain effective against advanced threats. The F-22's lifespan has been increased from 8,000 to potentially 15,000 flight hours through various modernization efforts, including the integration of advanced missile systems and improved electronic warfare capabilities.

Ukraine is experiencing a critical shortage of air defense missiles, severely limiting its ability to intercept Russian missile attacks. In July, the interception rate dropped to 14.9%, and the situation worsened in August. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are modernizing Soviet-era S-300 systems with U.S. support to address these challenges.

The U.S. Navy awarded Raytheon a $22.9 billion contract to ramp up Tomahawk cruise missile production to 1,000 rounds annually. This increase will take place over a multiyear period, following a framework agreement with the Pentagon. Raytheon is making substantial investments in its workforce and facilities to meet the rising demand for munitions.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) demonstrated the J-20 Mighty Dragon's capability to carry up to 14 air-to-air missiles in 'beast mode' during early 2025. This mode allows the aircraft to trade some stealth for increased firepower, similar to the U.S. F-35. The J-20 can carry PL-15 and PL-10 missiles, with ongoing efforts to enhance its internal weapons capacity.

Northrop Grumman is advancing the development of fully autonomous combat aircraft through Project Talon, focusing on systems that operate without continuous human input. The Talon IQ testbed ecosystem facilitates the integration and testing of autonomy software, while Talon Blue serves as a demonstrator for collaborative combat capabilities. These initiatives aim to enhance military operational flexibility and effectiveness in contested environments.

The Bundeswehr has ordered additional mobile rescue stations from Rheinmetall as an extension of a previous order. This procurement is part of the German armed forces' efforts to enhance their operational capabilities.