Analysis & Reports

USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. returned to Hawaii after 300 days at sea, completing 40 days of combat operations. The guided-missile destroyer participated in initial strikes on Iran and defended against over 100 missile and drone attacks. It operated in the South China Sea and the Middle East, sailing over 85,000 nautical miles during its deployment.

Israel is expanding the use of artificial intelligence in Merkava tanks and Eitan vehicles to enhance decision-making and threat assessment in urban combat. This development, reported on September 29, 2026, aims to improve the speed of threat recognition and response, integrating systems like Iron Vision for situational awareness and Trophy for active protection. The advancements reflect lessons learned from combat experiences in Lebanon and Gaza.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Sep 29 2026Loading...

The Israeli military is expanding the use of artificial intelligence in military operations following combat experience in Lebanon and the Gaza Strip.

South Korea's Defense Acquisition Program Administration inquired about purchasing the Turkish PD170 drone engine to enhance its military drone capabilities. This inquiry comes amid a series of crashes involving South Korean military drones. Turkish Aerospace Industries expressed interest in potential cooperation and joint engineering projects with South Korea. The PD170 engine is known for its use in various combat-tested drones, highlighting the significance of this procurement for South Korea's defense strategy.

Uvision signed a partnership agreement with Lendurai in Jerusalem on September 24, 2023, to integrate software for NATO military applications. This collaboration aims to enhance AI-enabled autonomy in loitering munitions, addressing the evolving needs of NATO forces. Uvision is expanding its presence in the European market, particularly in Estonia, known for its software capabilities.

Saudi Arabia and Israel expanded air defense cooperation under CENTCOM on September 22, 2026, integrating their systems for a unified response to threats. This collaboration aims to enhance regional security amid ongoing Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia. The partnership reflects a strategic shift in Gulf defense, emphasizing the need for shared operational protocols and decision-making frameworks.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Sep 27 2026Loading...

Israeli Defense Forces struck Hezbollah military infrastructure in southern Lebanon on September 27, 2023, in response to drone attacks on their soldiers. The strikes targeted positions used for launching drones and anti-tank missiles. No casualties were reported from the initial drone attacks.

The USS Long Beach, commissioned in 1961, served as a nuclear-powered cruiser for the U.S. Navy until its retirement in 1995. It played a significant role in the Vietnam War and was equipped with advanced radar and missile systems, showcasing the Navy's shift from traditional artillery to guided missiles. The cruiser demonstrated remarkable endurance and operational flexibility, influencing modern naval warfare technologies.

The F-14 Tomcat experienced severe performance issues due to the use of the TF30 engine, which was incompatible with its high-G maneuvering needs, leading to numerous crashes. In the late 1980s, the introduction of the F110 engine transformed the aircraft's capabilities, allowing for aggressive maneuvers and significantly improving safety and performance. The F-14's operational effectiveness was greatly enhanced, enabling it to fulfill its intended role more effectively in combat operations.

On April 14, 1988, the USS Samuel B. Roberts was damaged by an Iranian M-08 naval mine in the Persian Gulf, resulting in approximately $90 million in damage. The incident underscored the threat posed by outdated mines to modern naval vessels. Despite the extensive damage, the frigate maintained combat capability and continued service until 2015.

The Saudi-led coalition intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles launched by Houthi forces towards Khamis Mushait and shot down two drones targeting Riyadh Province on September 26, 2023.

The Russian Navy operates two Sierra II-class submarines, K-336 Pskov and B-534 Nizhny Novgorod, which are capable of deep diving and stealth. However, their strategic relevance is limited due to their small numbers and high maintenance costs. They participated in Arctic operations in 2019 but do not routinely engage in high-tempo patrols or significantly challenge Western forces.

On September 24, 2026, Saudi air defenses intercepted six ballistic missiles aimed at Taif and Yanbu. This interception highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Gulf defenses amid a heightened threat environment. The incident underscores the tactical success of Saudi Arabia's layered missile defense system, which includes American Patriot systems, while raising concerns about the sustainability of such defenses in the long term.

Alexandra ReevesFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force expanded its operational testing of the ULTRA glider-based spy drone, increasing its contract with DZYNE Technologies to $85.6 million. The ULTRA drone, capable of flying for over 80 hours and carrying significant payloads, has been operational since May 2024 from Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. The Air Force also plans to assess a turbocharged version, ULTRA Turbo, in the Middle East starting in fiscal 2026.

The U.S. Air Force announced a contract modification worth $87.4 million to Northrop Grumman for the AN/ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite, raising the total contract value to $1.92 billion. This system, designed for F-16 fighter jets, enhances radar-jamming capabilities and threat warnings. Production is set to be completed by December 31, 2029, with initial deployment for 72 F-16 Block 50 jets planned.

Two Israeli reserve soldiers were killed by a drone explosion near Beit Hanoun in the Gaza Strip on the 25th. The soldiers were operating two drones when one malfunctioned and exploded at an IDF military outpost. The Israel Defense Forces have suspended the use of the affected drone model and are investigating the incident.

Uvision and Lendurai announced a partnership on September 24, 2026, to integrate AI-enabled autonomy into unmanned systems. The collaboration will enhance the capabilities of loitering munitions and UAVs, focusing on operator support and mission resilience. This partnership aims to meet the evolving requirements of NATO forces, as stated by the CEOs of both companies.

Houthi forces launched attacks on sensitive targets in Riyadh and Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, on September 24, 2023, using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones. The Saudi air defense intercepted six missiles aimed at Taif and Yanbu. Houthi spokesperson claimed significant casualties and destruction of military assets in the Jizan region. The Saudi-led coalition reported extensive retaliatory airstrikes against Houthi positions.

The Admiral Nakhimov, a Kirov-class battlecruiser, has completed its sea trials and is preparing for deployment with the Russian Northern Fleet. This upgraded warship features advanced weaponry, including S-400 missiles and Zircon hypersonic missiles, and is designed to enhance Russia's naval capabilities in the Arctic. It can reach speeds over 32 knots and carries Ka-31 helicopters for aerial surveillance.

Houthi forces conducted a large-scale attack on multiple military targets in the Jizan region of Saudi Arabia on September 24, using dozens of ballistic missiles and drones.