Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy abandoned the Constellation-class frigate program after significant redesigns and cost overruns. Initially planned for 20 ships, only 2 were completed due to complications arising from ongoing design changes and increased weight. The program's failure is attributed to the Pentagon's procurement bureaucracy, which led to inflated costs and a loss of tactical utility.

The U.S. military launched a new round of strikes against Iran on July 14 at 15:00 EDT, marking the third consecutive night of such actions. Concurrently, preparations were made to restore a maritime blockade against Iran, which is set to take effect at 16:00 EDT on the same day. President Trump has formally notified Congress regarding the resurgence of hostilities with Iran.

The U.S. Army's Mesquite ammunition factory in Texas has failed to produce any 155 mm artillery shells since its commissioning in 2024, despite a $469 million investment. The facility was expected to manufacture 30,000 shells monthly by October 2025, but production has been halted due to issues with adapting older machinery. Army officials expressed dissatisfaction with the factory's performance, leading to a complete work stoppage ordered in August 2025.

The Space Development Agency awarded contracts totaling $1.75 billion to L3Harris Technologies and Sierra Space for the development of 36 missile defense satellites. These satellites are intended to enhance the Pentagon's Golden Dome missile shield and are scheduled for launch in 2028. L3Harris will develop 18 missile defense variant satellites, while Sierra Space will provide 18 missile warning and tracking satellites, contributing to the overall missile defense capabilities of the U.S. military.

Senate Democrats blocked the fiscal 2027 defense authorization act in Washington today, voting 50-46 along party lines. The blockage was due to opposition to the Iran war and concerns over rising defense spending, with the NDAA proposing $1.14 trillion in funding. Senators emphasized the need for a bipartisan budget agreement before proceeding with military funding.

Bala Selvam is implementing new data workflows for the Special Operations Command Pacific to enhance the use of AI tools in military operations. He identified inefficiencies in existing data transfer methods, particularly in the Indo-Pacom Command, and is collaborating with AWS to create smaller cloud compute clusters for battalions. This initiative aims to improve command and control capabilities by ensuring timely access to critical data for troops in the field.

The U.S. Army has fallen short of its goal to produce 100,000 155mm ammunition rounds per month, achieving only 36,000 by March 2024. A facility in Mesquite, Texas, has not produced any usable components since its opening, contributing to the shortfall. The Army plans to reduce production lines and shift some production to other sources, while reviewing the contract with General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems for the facility.

China's aerial refueling capabilities, with approximately 35 aircraft, are inadequate to support the operational range of the H-20 stealth bomber. The U.S. maintains a fleet of over 500 tankers, highlighting a significant logistical gap. The YY-20A tanker, while modern, is scarce, and the absence of flying-boom tankers limits the H-20's intercontinental mission capabilities. Without a robust refueling system, the H-20 remains a regional strike aircraft rather than an intercontinental bomber.

China's aerial refueling capabilities are inadequate to support the operational range of the H-20 stealth bomber, which requires a robust tanker fleet for intercontinental missions. Currently, China has about 35 tankers, while the US maintains over 500. The YY-20A tanker, although modern, is scarce, and the absence of flying-boom tankers limits the H-20's operational effectiveness. Without significant improvements in its refueling capabilities, the H-20 will remain a regional strike aircraft rather than an intercontinental bomber.

The Russian Navy decommissioned the Lada-class submarine Sankt Petersburg in 2023 due to persistent failures and high costs associated with its development. The Lada-class was intended to enhance Russia's undersea warfare capabilities but has been plagued by issues since its inception. Efforts to export the submarines have also failed, with no interest from potential buyers.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $2.2 billion contract to TOTE Services LLC for the construction of new Medium Landing Ships (LSMs) in Jacksonville, Florida. Construction is set to begin later this year, with the first ship scheduled for delivery in fall 2029. This initiative is part of the Navy's strategy to enhance capabilities in potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific region.

Gas prices in the U.S. have increased by 10 cents due to renewed conflict between the U.S. and Iran, following the collapse of a ceasefire. This rise in prices is linked to surging oil prices and ongoing military actions in the region. Additionally, China's reduced crude oil imports and Russia's diesel export ban are contributing to tighter global refined product markets.

The Pentagon is assessing the titanium and magnesium supply needs for military hardware production amid potential wartime disruptions. On July 14, 2023, the Defense Logistics Agency issued Requests for Information to gather data on current usage and demand for these critical materials. The U.S. currently relies on imports for titanium and magnesium, raising concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities in defense manufacturing.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking proposals for a new engine that can take off like a rocket and cruise like a jet, focusing on Rotating Detonation Rocket Engines (RDREs) and storable propellants. This request, published on July 14, 2023, aims to enhance missile capabilities and logistics by integrating advanced propulsion technologies. The Air Force has conducted around 300 tests of RDREs since 2021, indicating a serious commitment to developing this technology for operational use.

Lt. Gen. Doug Schiess is set to appear before the Senate Armed Services Committee as he seeks confirmation as the third Chief of Space Operations. The Space Force plans to double its personnel from 10,000 to 20,000 by 2030, facing challenges in recruitment and structure. Strategies include restoring service for separated members, interservice transfers, and direct appointments from industry to ensure a sustainable force structure. The Space Force also aims to expand its operational footprint into new states to enhance recruitment and congressional support.

Ukraine launched drone strikes against Russian oil refineries and shipping in the Black Sea, targeting facilities in Bashkortostan and Krasnodar Krai. Russian air defenses intercepted 288 drones overnight, while Ukrainian forces reported successful hits on multiple vessels. These operations are part of a broader strategy to disrupt Russian energy supplies and logistics, contributing to a fuel crisis in Russia.

The USS Gerald R. Ford entered dry dock in Norfolk, Virginia, on July 7, 2023, for scheduled maintenance following a record 326-day overseas deployment. This deployment, the longest since the Vietnam War, revealed various operational challenges and equipment failures, necessitating extensive repairs. The increasing frequency of prolonged deployments among U.S. carriers highlights ongoing logistical issues within the Navy.

Ghostworks introduced the Multirole Remote Logistics Node (MRLN) at the Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit on July 14. This system allows for the reconfiguration of vessels for various missions, enhancing operational flexibility. The Minerva-class vessel, equipped with MRLN, can carry significant payloads while maintaining high speeds in moderate sea conditions. This innovation aims to improve naval logistics and operational capabilities in contested waters.

GE Aerospace announced the selection of its CT7-2E1 engine to power 23 AW149 helicopters for the UK Ministry of Defence on July 14, 2023. This decision enhances logistical efficiency and maintenance for the UK armed forces, as the AW149 will replace the retired Puma HC2 fleet. The engine's production and support will occur at various UK facilities, contributing to local economic and social initiatives.

The U.S. Army's M10 Booker Combat Vehicle program, initiated to provide infantry with mobile, protected firepower, encountered severe design and procurement issues from 2013 to 2024. The vehicle ultimately became too heavy and complex, failing to meet its original mission requirements. Despite significant investment, the program was deemed a failure, highlighting systemic issues within Pentagon acquisitions.