Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy initiated a $15.8 million barracks renovation project at Naval Support Activity Bahrain on January 12. This project is part of the Navy's 'Sailors First' initiative, aimed at improving living conditions for personnel. The renovations will include new roofing, flooring, plumbing, and electrical systems, contributing to enhanced mission readiness and talent retention.

Abraham Lincoln delivered a poignant quote in Philadelphia on June 16, 1864, reflecting on the Civil War's immense destruction. He highlighted the war's terrible nature and its impact on the United States, emphasizing his unique position as the only president to lead during a civil war. Lincoln's early life experiences shaped his views on law, order, and equality, influencing his leadership during this tumultuous period.

The U.S. Navy and Marine Corps banned the use of kratom and related products in January 2023 due to health risks and legal concerns. This ban aligns with similar actions taken by the Army and Air Force, reflecting ongoing military policy to regulate substances affecting personnel health. The FDA has warned against the use of kratom for medical treatment, citing safety and effectiveness concerns.

The U.S. Navy is developing the SSN(X) submarine program, which aims to enhance undersea warfare capabilities. The program's first procurement has been delayed to the early 2040s due to budgetary constraints and industrial capacity issues. The Navy's FY 2026 budget allocates $622.8 million for research and development of the SSN(X), indicating its strategic importance despite current production challenges with existing submarine classes.

The J-20 fighter jet from China is compared to the U.S. F-35 and F-22, highlighting the challenges in assessing their capabilities due to unknown factors. The F-35's global adoption and pilot experience are emphasized as key advantages. The F-15EX and Su-35 are also discussed as notable fourth-generation fighters, with the F-15EX outperforming some fifth-generation jets in simulations. Overall, the report underscores the complexities in evaluating these advanced aircraft.

The U.S. Navy is considering the potential upgrades for the F-14 Tomcat 21 'Super', which could include lasers and hypersonic missiles. The aircraft's legacy design allows for significant enhancements, maintaining its relevance in modern combat. The F-14's advanced radar and missile systems enable it to engage targets at long ranges, and its variable-sweep wing design enhances its versatility in various roles.

USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) underwent modernization in Pascagoula, MS, integrating Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missiles. This upgrade enhances the destroyer's capabilities, allowing it to strike targets over 1,700 miles away. The U.S. Navy aims to have all three Zumwalt-class ships equipped with this advanced weaponry by 2026, transforming them into potent long-range strike platforms.

Navantia has begun construction of modules for three logistics ships for the British Royal Fleet Auxiliary at its yard in Cádiz, Spain, on 23 January 2026. This follows the completion of the critical design review and initial steel cutting at Navantia UK’s Appledore shipyard. The vessels are designed to support Royal Navy operations by providing essential supplies at sea.

China is developing the JH-XX stealth bomber to complement the H-20, with expected operational capability by 2025. The JH-XX will likely weigh 60 tons and is designed to threaten U.S. military assets in the Pacific, including Guam. It will replace the aging H-6 bomber, enhancing the capabilities of the People's Liberation Army Air Force.

France's DGA ordered long-range, remote-controlled munitions from MBDA and Aviation Design. This acquisition indicates a focus on enhancing military capabilities with new weapon systems.

Turkey and Qatar signed multiple defense agreements during DIMDEX 2026 in Doha, including a $1 billion deal for two Istif-class frigates for the Indonesian Navy. The agreements signify a shift towards joint ventures and localized production in defense, with Barzan Holdings and Turkish companies collaborating on unmanned systems and other military technologies.

Diehl Defence opened a new missile integration centre in Nonnweiler, Saarland, on 23 January 2026, creating 3,400 m² of production space. This facility will enhance the company's capacity for integrating IRIS-T missile variants. The expansion is part of a broader growth initiative, with an investment of approximately EUR 1.5 billion, driven by increased demand from NATO countries following the Ukraine War.

China is developing the DF-27 ICBM-class anti-ship missile, which could threaten U.S. Navy carrier strike groups from intercontinental ranges. This advancement alters the strategic landscape in the Pacific, compelling the U.S. to reassess its naval operational strategies. The effectiveness of the missile depends on a resilient network of sensors and data links to track and target moving vessels.

Defense contractors in the United States, including RTX and Lockheed Martin, prioritized stock buybacks and dividends over production investments in 2024, returning 98% of their free cash flow to investors. RTX led with $3.2 billion in dividends, while Lockheed Martin repurchased $3.7 billion in stock. Boeing, facing negative cash flow, did not issue dividends or buy back stock but increased its internal investments.

The U.S. Air Force continues to operate the F-117 Nighthawk in Nevada for training exercises, simulating enemy stealth fighters. This use persists despite the aircraft's retirement from combat in 2008, with plans to maintain its operational status until at least 2034. The F-117 serves as a valuable tool for pilot training and testing anti-air systems against low-observable threats.

U.S. President Donald Trump launched a new 'Board of Peace' at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, inviting at least 50 world leaders, with 25 accepting. Members can gain permanent status by contributing $1 billion within the first year. Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed interest in joining, while several countries, including the UK and Canada, declined to participate.

Iran threatens to disrupt the Strait of Hormuz amid rising tensions with the US, leveraging the strategic chokepoint as a bargaining tool. The closure could lead to significant economic repercussions, including spikes in oil prices and increased military readiness from the US and allies. However, Iran's capacity to maintain a total closure is limited due to the overwhelming naval power of the US.

The Pentagon established a permanent agency for managing Permanent Change of Station (PCS) processes at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, effective May 1, 2025. This agency will oversee logistics for over 300,000 service members and civilians annually, requiring significant investments in new information technology systems. The previous Global Household Goods contract was canceled, prompting the need for a new approach to managing military relocations.

The US State Department approved a Foreign Military Sale to Singapore on 20 January 2026, allowing the purchase of up to four P-8A Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft and eight MK 54 lightweight torpedoes. This deal, valued at approximately USD 2.316 billion, aims to enhance Singapore's defense capabilities and interoperability with US forces. Boeing will be the principal contractor for the sale.

Benjamin Franklin highlighted the value of investing in knowledge for personal and societal advancement, particularly during military conflicts. He played a crucial role in securing French support during the Revolutionary War and was instrumental in drafting the Declaration of Independence. Franklin's military experience included organizing defenses during earlier conflicts, showcasing his influence on military strategy and diplomacy.