Analysis & Reports

The Chinese 24th Peacekeeping Force successfully passed a UN equipment inspection in Lebanon on the 24th, showcasing their operational readiness. The inspection covered over 20 categories of equipment, including vehicles and medical supplies, with all items meeting or exceeding UN standards. A team of 15 UN professionals conducted the thorough evaluation, highlighting the professionalism of the Chinese forces.

Iran has enhanced its missile defense capabilities and increased the quantity and quality of its missile strength compared to last year. The Iranian Defense Ministry spokesperson emphasized the improved efficiency of these systems. Concurrently, the U.S. has threatened military intervention, with President Trump announcing a large fleet heading to the Middle East, including an aircraft carrier and additional missile defense systems.

Iran showcased its domestically produced 'Shahed' series drones during a televised event on the evening of the 22nd. The drones, including models like the 'Shahed-129', were previously used in a military conflict with Israel last June. IRGC Air Force officials highlighted the capabilities of these drones, including their armament and specifications.

Bulgaria approved a $205 million project to purchase Naval Strike Missiles to enhance its coastal defense capabilities. The deal, conducted with the U.S. government, is expected to see payments concentrated between 2029 and 2030. This acquisition follows a similar purchase by Romania and is part of a broader effort to counter increased Russian military activity in the Black Sea.

The Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) are advancing the Carmel programme, focusing on integrating advanced technologies into armored fighting vehicles (AFVs) since 2021. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) was selected as the prime contractor, with the Merkava Mk4 Barak being the first to operationally integrate these technologies. The Carmel suite enhances crew survivability and situational awareness, allowing for closed hatch operations. The IDF plans to increase production of advanced AFVs, including the Merkava Mk4 Barak and Eitan APCs, by 2025.

The UAE Ministry of Defense signed 11 defense contracts worth $980 million during UMEX 2026 in Abu Dhabi. Key agreements include UAV development and tracked RCV systems with EDGE Group. Additionally, interest in 3D-printed unmanned surface vessels (USVs) was highlighted, showcasing advancements in military technology and a 20% increase in contract value compared to 2024.

The Admiral Nakhimov battlecruiser is undergoing sea trials after significant upgrades, including the installation of 176 vertical launch tubes and advanced missile systems. The ship, part of the Russian Navy, is expected to rejoin the fleet after being out of service since 1999. Reports indicate that its nuclear reactors are operational, and it is heavily armed with Kalibr, Oniks, and Zircon missiles, enhancing its naval capabilities.

Tawazun Council for Defence Capability announced the signing of 11 contracts worth AED 3.6 billion during the UMEX and SIMTEX 2026 exhibitions in Abu Dhabi on 22 January 2026. The contracts include agreements for the development of unmanned aerial vehicles and remote-controlled weapons, reflecting a 20% increase from the previous edition. This underscores the UAE's commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities and strategic partnerships.

SIRBAI signed a Strategic Partnership Agreement with EDGE in Abu Dhabi on 22 January 2026 to advance AI-powered swarm capabilities for unmanned aerial systems. This collaboration aims to integrate SIRBAI's advanced mission intelligence and swarm technologies into EDGE's UAV ecosystem, enhancing operational effectiveness and decision-making. The partnership follows successful technology demonstrations confirming SIRBAI's capabilities.

EDGE secured contracts to supply 168 advanced unmanned helicopters, including 76 HT-100 and 92 HT-750 models, to the UAE Ministry of Defence on 22 January 2026. This order is one of the largest for autonomous unmanned aerial systems globally, emphasizing the UAE's commitment to enhancing its national security through advanced technology. The contracts were announced during the Unmanned Systems Exhibition & Conference (UMEX) and Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX) 2026.

EDGE Group secured contracts to supply the UAE Ministry of Defence with 76 HT-100 and 92 HT-750 rotary-wing UAVs on 22 January 2026 during the UMEX/SimTEX 2026 exhibitions in Abu Dhabi. The HT-100 is intended for intelligence and data-gathering, while the HT-750 is designed for logistics operations, capable of transporting heavy payloads.

Russia continues to export Kilo-class submarines to China and Iran, enhancing their naval capabilities. These submarines, known for their stealth and anti-submarine warfare capabilities, are part of a broader trend of Russian arms sales. The Kilo-class has been successful due to its affordability and operational simplicity, although it faces competition from more advanced submarine designs.

Iraq is reviewing the acquisition of up to 250 K2 main battle tanks from South Korea as part of a program to replace its aging armored vehicles. A high-level Iraqi delegation visited Hyundai Rotem's production facilities last summer, and a contract worth approximately $6.5 billion is anticipated to be signed later this year. This move reflects Iraq's efforts to modernize its military capabilities.

GA-ASI and Calidus are collaborating to co-produce MQ-9B UAVs and Gambit CCAs in the United Arab Emirates. This partnership highlights a significant development in military drone technology and production capabilities in the region.

Israel is enhancing its air combat capabilities with the F-35I Adir fighter jets, establishing itself as a significant power in aerial warfare. The Israeli Air Force is actively integrating these advanced aircraft into its operations, reflecting ongoing developments in military aviation.

Damen has secured a contract to supply tugboats to the Qatar Emiri Naval Forces. This procurement enhances the naval capabilities of Qatar, indicating a focus on strengthening maritime operations. The details of the contract were not specified in the report.

The Qatar Emiri Air Force has completed the delivery of its NH90 helicopter fleet. This marks a significant milestone in enhancing Qatar's military capabilities. The helicopters were supplied by Leonardo, a key player in the defense industry.

KNDS France showcased the VBCI MKII, loitering munitions, and a bespoke counter-drone shield for Qatari Forces at DIMDEX 2026 in Qatar. This event highlighted advancements in military equipment aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Qatari military.

Iran's F-14 Tomcat fighter jets remain a significant concern for the Pentagon due to their capabilities. The Iranian Air Force continues to operate these aircraft, which have implications for regional military dynamics. Discussions around their status and potential upgrades are ongoing.

Performance Marine unveiled the Ghost 7 unmanned surface vehicle (USV) in Qatar and plans to conduct sea trials within this year.