Analysis & Reports

Grupo Oesía has been selected by Lockheed Martin to manufacture key components for the PAC-3 MSE defense system in Spain as of January 22, 2026. This project will produce specialized cables and harnesses, enhancing Spain's role in the international defense supply chain. The agreement was formalized during an event attended by officials from both companies and government representatives, marking a significant step in U.S.-Spain defense collaboration.

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.

The UK Ministry of Defence awarded BAE Systems a £453.5 million contract for the production of the ECRS Mk2 radar, enhancing the Royal Air Force's Typhoon aircraft capabilities. This contract supports 1,300 jobs across the UK and is part of a broader investment in national defense. The radar is set to enter service by the end of the decade, contributing significantly to the UK's defense and economic strength.

Ukrainian Security Service (SBU) detained two Russian spies in Lviv on Thursday morning. The suspects were gathering information on damage caused by the Oreshnik ballistic missile. One suspect, a 64-year-old from Mukachevo, received and relayed the collected data to Russian handlers. The younger suspect, aged 22, was caught while inspecting the missile impact site.

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.

The United States Space Force (USSF), established in 2019, is currently six years old and operates under the Department of the Air Force. It is significantly smaller than other military branches, comprising about 5% of their size. The Space Force has developed a unique culture and identity but faces challenges in defining its independent role and effectiveness within the broader military framework. Its establishment has also influenced international military developments in space.

Air Chief Marshal Sir John Stringer of the UK Royal Air Force has been appointed as NATO's Deputy Supreme Allied Commander Europe, effective March 2026. He will replace Admiral Sir Keith Blount, marking the first RAF officer in this role since 1984. Stringer brings extensive NATO experience, having served in various command positions, and his appointment underscores the UK's significant role within the alliance.

Elbit Systems UK finalized the acquisition of UAV Tactical Systems Ltd. (UTACS) in London on January 22, 2026. This acquisition enables Elbit to strengthen its position in the uncrewed aerial systems market, focusing on serving European and NATO customers. UTACS has a history of supplying advanced UAS to the British Army and international clients, enhancing the UK's defense industrial base.

Israeli airstrikes targeted Gaza Strip on January 22, resulting in 5 fatalities. The strikes occurred in northern Gaza City and southern Khan Younis. Since the ceasefire began, Israeli military actions have led to 477 deaths and 1301 injuries in the region. Hamas condemned the ongoing attacks and the involvement of Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a proposed peace committee.

The 101st Airborne Division paused Operation Lethal Eagle at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, due to an impending winter storm forecasted for the weekend. Bases including Fort Bragg and Camp LeJeune are preparing for heavy snow and ice, with emergency teams activated. The storm is expected to affect military operations across the eastern United States, involving over 7,000 Soldiers and various equipment.

The 101st Airborne Division paused its largest annual training exercise, Operation Lethal Eagle, at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, due to an impending winter storm expected to impact multiple military bases. Preparations are underway at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and other installations, with emergency teams activated to ensure safety as heavy snow and icy conditions are forecasted for the weekend. Over 7,000 Soldiers and various equipment are involved in the exercise, which will resume once conditions improve.

U.S. President Trump declared that Iran must cease its nuclear weapons development during an interview in Davos on January 21, 2023. He indicated that the U.S. might take action if Iran does not comply. The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is currently en route to the Arabian Sea, having passed through the Strait of Malacca. Iranian officials have issued warnings against U.S. military actions, promising a strong response if attacked.

Congress unveiled a bipartisan defense spending package of $839 billion for fiscal year 2026 to fund the US military through September. This package includes various programs that were selected after extensive negotiations.

President Trump threatened the annexation or forced sale of Greenland, which could undermine U.S. security and NATO alliances. Denmark and Greenland have cooperated with the U.S. on defense, and a significant reduction in U.S. military presence has occurred since the Cold War. NATO allies would likely support increased troop levels if justified by shared security concerns. However, Trump's threats of tariffs against European nations opposing his plans could further strain relations.

The F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program, involving nearly 3,000 aircraft, is operational across the U.S. Air Force, Navy, and Marine Corps, with a projected service life extending into the 2070s. The program's lifetime cost is estimated at $2 trillion, covering development, operations, and sustainment. The F-35 consolidates multiple roles, replacing older aircraft and providing a unified fleet for the U.S. and its allies.

France's DGA delivered 30 SERVAL armoured vehicles to the French Army as part of the SCORPION programme for new generation armoured vehicles.

Queen Elizabeth II served as an ambulance driver during World War II, demonstrating leadership by example. She reigned for 70 years and 214 days, becoming the longest-serving British monarch. Her military contributions and service are noted as significant aspects of her legacy. She passed away on September 8, 2022, at the age of 96.

BAE Systems received a £454 million contract from the UK Ministry of Defence for the production of 38 new Eurofighter Typhoon radars, enhancing the Royal Air Force's capabilities. The European Common Radar System Mk2 (ECRS Mk2) will be integrated into Tranche 3 jets, with service entry expected by the end of the decade. This contract is part of a broader £2.35 billion upgrade program for the Eurofighter fleet.

Ukrainian soldiers in the Zaporizhzhia region express deep skepticism about ongoing peace talks with Russia, fearing that any agreement may lack enforceable security guarantees. Concerns are raised about the potential for renewed conflict if a ceasefire is reached without solid commitments. The situation is compounded by significant numbers of soldiers currently AWOL and high casualty rates since the invasion began.

Ukrainian soldiers in the Zaporizhzhia region express deep skepticism about ongoing peace talks with Russia, fearing that any agreement may lead to renewed conflict without real security guarantees. Concerns are heightened by the fact that around 200,000 soldiers are currently AWOL, and public sentiment shows a strong desire for a deal that does not compromise territorial integrity. The soldiers emphasize the need for enforceable guarantees to prevent further aggression from Russia.