Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force halted production of the F-22 Raptor in 2009 after completing only 187 units, despite an initial plan for 750. The total acquisition cost reached approximately $67.3 billion, with significant logistical challenges preventing a restart of production. The F-22 was intended to replace the F-15 fleet and remains unmatched in its capabilities, but the Air Force has no plans to resume its production.

Voyager Technologies is expanding its solid rocket motor manufacturing capabilities at a new facility in Pueblo, Colorado, expected to be operational later in 2026. This expansion aims to meet the increasing demand from the Department of War for tactical solid rocket motors. The company has reported significant contract awards and emphasizes its innovative production processes to ensure rapid delivery and quality assurance.

Honeywell Aerospace tested an integrated counter-drone system against simulated aerial threats at the U.S. Central Command's EXTiC 26-2 event. The system, which combines sensors and AI-driven software, effectively detected and mitigated drone threats while defending a simulated airfield. This demonstration highlights the adaptability of the technology in both static and mobile operations.

GE Aerospace and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions were awarded a contract by the U.S. Air Force to develop the F143-ZZ-100 turbofan engine for the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM). The new engine, generating 800 pounds of thrust, is part of efforts to provide a second-source propulsion system for JASSM, which currently relies on a single engine supplier. Testing has included over 50 engine starts and altitude testing at Purdue University.

Sudan's army shot down at least six Chinese-made CH-95 drones operated by the UAE-backed Rapid Support Forces since late June 2023. The Turkish-built Bayraktar Akıncı drones were used in these interceptions, with the latest incident occurring on August 17. The RSF has been involved in ongoing conflicts since April 2023, with evidence of Emirati support in the supply chain for these drones.

The U.S. Central Command announced the formation of Task Force Falcon Strike on August 13, 2025, aimed at utilizing reverse-engineered drones based on Iran's Shahed-136. This multinational task force will focus on one-way attack drone operations across various domains, reflecting a shift in U.S. military strategy in response to ongoing conflicts. The LUCAS drone, developed from captured Iranian technology, is central to this new approach.

Alexandra ReevesMon Aug 17 2026Loading...

The U.S. has not granted a production license for Patriot interceptors to Ukraine, despite initial promises made by Donald Trump. Conflicting statements from U.S. officials indicate concerns from defense contractors about competition and technology transfer. The timeline for production is expected to take years, while a coalition is developing an alternative system called Freyja.

Dr. Klaus WeberMon Aug 17 2026Loading...

Russian forces launched 198 ballistic and hypersonic missiles at Ukraine in July 2026, utilizing S-400 systems for ground strikes. This marks a significant increase in missile activity, as previous months saw lower numbers. The repurposing of air defense missiles for offensive operations indicates a strategic shift in Russia's military approach amid ongoing conflict.

Dmitri VolkovMon Aug 17 2026Loading...

The CSIS report highlights the vulnerabilities of the Chinese Navy's anti-submarine capabilities, identifying U.S. nuclear submarines as a major threat in the Western Pacific. It emphasizes that the narrow waterways of the first island chain increase the risks for Chinese naval operations. The report suggests that the U.S. should focus on making Chinese aircraft carriers a costly burden rather than just defending against missile threats. It also notes that China's underwater warfare capabilities are still developing and require time to improve.

Li MinghuiMon Aug 17 2026Loading...

Japan's government is accelerating its militarization efforts, significantly increasing its defense budget and discussing potential revisions to its nuclear policy. This shift reflects a broader trend towards integrating civilian technology into military applications and enhancing self-defense capabilities. The government aims to revise its longstanding 'Three Non-Nuclear Principles' and is promoting domestic military production.

Voltage Vessels tested basalt-fiber drones and a small surface-water drone during the Rim of the Pacific exercise in Hawaii from June 24 to July 2026. The U.S. Navy participated in this exercise, which involved over two dozen unmanned systems experiments. The new material, Eclipse X9, is claimed to be stronger than traditional drone materials and has potential military applications.

In October 1997, the U.S. purchased 21 MiG-29 Fulcrum fighters and 500 missiles from Moldova to prevent Iran from acquiring advanced military capabilities. The deal was part of the Nunn-Lugar program aimed at nonproliferation. The aircraft were transported to Ohio for further analysis, as they were considered potential nuclear delivery systems.

U.S. Northern Command's Lt. Gen. Joseph Jarrard stated that U.S. military bases are currently ill-equipped to defend against drone swarms. The military is actively developing tactics and technologies to counter this threat, including directed-energy weapons and specialized ammunition. Jarrard emphasized the need for improved detection and tracking capabilities to mitigate the risks posed by enemy drones, as recent attacks have demonstrated their effectiveness against military installations.

Turkey plans to transfer a large quantity of U.S.-made weapons to Ukraine, including 12 MLRS systems and 70 ATACMS missiles, prompting warnings from Russia about the potential damage to relations with the U.S. and Turkey. The U.S. State Department has formally notified Congress of this arms transfer, valued at around $283 million, amid Ukraine's critical shortage of military supplies, particularly in preparation for the winter.

On August 16, 2023, Ukrainian forces launched a significant drone attack involving up to 600 drones targeting Moscow and Rostov Oblast. The strikes hit key logistical facilities, including the Wildberries warehouse and the Severnoye production complex, resulting in multiple casualties. This operation marks a notable escalation, demonstrating vulnerabilities in Russia's air defense and altering the dynamics of the conflict as both capitals are now under threat.

Alexandra ReevesSun Aug 16 2026Loading...

The U.S. has not granted Ukraine a license to produce Patriot missiles, despite earlier promises. Concerns about competition and technology transfer have led to delays in production agreements. The Freyja coalition was formed to create an alternative missile system, highlighting the urgency of Ukraine's defense needs amid ongoing conflicts. U.S. production capabilities are under strain, complicating the situation further.

Dr. Klaus WeberSun Aug 16 2026Loading...

Japan's Self-Defense Forces plan to equip AI-powered unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) by FY2031. These UUVs will feature modular designs for various military missions, including missile launches and surveillance. They are intended to enhance the defense of critical maritime routes such as the Miyako and Osumi Straits, operating autonomously with AI support and long-lasting battery capabilities.

Canada's navy is receiving new ships, including 15 River-class destroyers and 6 Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ships, while increasing defense spending to 2% of GDP. The first River-class destroyer is under construction in Halifax. However, the current fleet architecture is outdated, and there will be a significant gap in surface combatants until 2039, raising concerns about maritime defense capabilities.

The U.S. Coast Guard is converting C-130J transport aircraft into HC-130J surveillance planes as part of a program covering 28 aircraft for the Coast Guard and 12 for Customs and Border Protection. The conversion involves installing the Minotaur Mission System Suite and is expected to begin in fiscal year 2030. A request for information was posted on August 14, 2023, with responses due by September 17, 2023.

The U.S. Air Force is procuring DJI drones for counter-drone training at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming. This acquisition, announced on August 14, 2023, aims to enhance training against real drone signals, as DJI drones represent a significant portion of the commercial drone market. The purchase is justified under legal authority for foreign procurement, with cybersecurity measures planned to address potential risks.