Analysis & Reports

Elbit Systems completed the acquisition of UAV Tactical Systems in Leicester, UK, to produce drones for European customers. This acquisition follows the British government's decision to phase out the Watchkeeper drones. Elbit is also involved in other drone technologies, including the Hermes 900 and loitering munitions.

Contaminated drinking water issues affected the USS Nimitz and USS Abraham Lincoln, with JP-5 jet fuel and E. coli bacteria identified as the contaminants. The USS Nimitz experienced contamination that sickened 11 sailors, while the USS Abraham Lincoln faced E. coli due to a corroded vent pipe. These incidents reveal significant maintenance failures and communication breakdowns within the U.S. Navy's operations.

Minnesota authorities activated the National Guard to assist in Minneapolis following the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by federal agents during an immigration enforcement operation. Pretti, a legal gun owner, was shot after a confrontation with ICE agents. Protests erupted in response, highlighting tensions surrounding federal immigration actions in the state.

Elbit Systems was awarded a USD 228 million contract on 26 January 2026 to supply its Iron Fist active protection system (APS) for upgrading US Army Bradley Fighting Vehicles. This contract follows a previous USD 383.5 million contract issued to General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems for the same purpose. The Iron Fist APS enhances the survivability of armored platforms against modern battlefield threats and has been selected by various NATO armies.

Leonardo DRS opened a new naval power and propulsion facility in Charleston, South Carolina, to support the U.S. Navy's Columbia-class submarine program, which is currently facing a 17-month delay. The facility will manufacture and test components for electric power and propulsion systems, as well as support the design of naval steam turbine systems. This investment aims to strengthen the defense industrial base and ensure reliable access to critical military capabilities.

Leonardo DRS opened a new naval power and propulsion facility in Charleston, South Carolina, to support the U.S. Navy's Columbia-class submarine program, which is currently facing a 17-month delay. The facility will manufacture and test components for electric power and propulsion systems, as well as naval steam turbine systems. This investment aims to strengthen the defense industrial base and ensure reliable access to critical military capabilities.

The U.S. Navy fired Commodore Douglas Whimpey of the First Naval Construction Regiment on September 23, 2023, due to a loss of confidence in his command ability. Capt. Angel Santiago relieved him, and Capt. Steven Sherman will take over the position. The Navy emphasized that this leadership change did not affect ongoing operations.

The U.S. Navy proposed the Trump-class guided-missile battleship, estimated to cost up to $21 billion, as a response to China's naval expansion. Critics argue that the concept is economically unfeasible and strategically flawed, as it would not address modern naval warfare challenges. The proposal emphasizes missile capabilities over traditional battleship features, reflecting a shift in naval strategy.

Leonardo conducted a demonstration of the FITS4TOP project on January 26, 2026, in Venegono Superiore, Italy, showcasing advanced military pilot training capabilities. The project, co-funded by the EU, integrates live, virtual, and constructive training systems with the M-346 advanced jet trainer. It involves six aerospace partners from Italy, France, Denmark, and Romania, aiming to enhance training for future combat pilots in complex environments.

The U.S. Navy's Columbia-class submarine program is experiencing significant delays, with the lead boat, USS District of Columbia (SSBN-826), now expected to be delivered 17 months late in 2029. Despite a lifecycle cost of $348 billion, the program faces challenges due to a shortage of skilled labor and a weakened industrial base. However, progress is being made, with the lead boat approximately 60% complete and new facilities being established to support production.

The first MC-55A Peregrine surveillance and electronic warfare jet arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, Australia, late last week. This aircraft, modified from the Gulfstream G550, is part of a four-aircraft acquisition aimed at enhancing Australia's surveillance capabilities. It will be operated by the RAAF's 10 Squadron and is expected to improve the country's ability to monitor its strategic interests and integrate with allied systems.

The Pentagon established the Personal Property Activity at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, to oversee military household goods moves and address longstanding issues of damage and loss. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced this initiative to ensure high-quality shipment services for over 300,000 service members annually. The PPA will report directly to him and aims to improve the logistics of military relocations, allowing service members to book moves earlier and enhancing compensation for delays.

U.S. President Trump has threatened military action regarding Greenland, while Russia continues to gain ground in Ukraine. China views Taiwan as a potential target for military action, and Iran remains vulnerable yet capable of retaliation. Tensions between India and Pakistan persist following recent military skirmishes, indicating a precarious geopolitical landscape leading into 2026.

President Trump announced the 'Super Raptor' upgrade for the F-22 Raptor during a visit to Doha, Qatar. This upgrade aims to extend the aircraft's service life to 15,000 hours and includes advanced capabilities such as next-generation infrared search-and-track systems and the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile. Additionally, a new 'F-55' concept was introduced as an upgrade to the F-35.

The U.S. Air Force is developing the F-47 NGAD stealth fighter, which is expected to achieve speeds of Mach 2 and a range exceeding 1,000 miles. This aircraft will utilize advanced adaptive-cycle engines from General Electric and Pratt & Whitney, enhancing its operational capabilities. The F-47 aims to replace the F-22 and will feature sophisticated sensor systems and next-generation weaponry, marking a significant advancement in air superiority technology.

Ukraine's defense industry is increasingly securing contracts as the focus shifts to enhancing domestic military capabilities. This trend reflects a strategic move to bolster local production and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are at the forefront of this initiative, aiming to strengthen their defense posture.

The U.S. military conducted operations in Venezuela on January 3, 2023, resulting in at least 100 casualties. President Trump stated that a new weapon, referred to as a 'mind disruptor', was used during these operations. Eyewitnesses described severe physical reactions, including nosebleeds and loss of consciousness. Russian military experts have criticized these claims as mere political posturing.

Russia is decommissioning its sole aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, due to prohibitive repair costs and corruption. The carrier, plagued by technical failures, will likely be scrapped or sold, marking the end of Russian carrier aviation for the foreseeable future. The crew has been reassigned to infantry roles in Ukraine, further indicating the decline of the Russian Navy's capabilities.

Soframe was selected by the French Defence Procurement Agency to supply the French Army with 20 heavy recovery vehicles, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2027. The contract includes an option for up to 80 additional units. These vehicles will enhance the French Army's capabilities and are similar to those provided to the Belgian Army, indicating strengthened joint operations between the two nations.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier entered the Indian Ocean on January 26 in response to increasing threats from Iran. This deployment is part of a broader U.S. military buildup in the region, which includes additional missile defense systems. Reports indicate that Iran may be preparing for military action, with its Supreme Leader reportedly in hiding.