Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading its F-22 Raptor fleet with a $9 billion investment, set for completion in 2026. Enhancements include low-drag external fuel tanks and underwing infrared search and track pods, aimed at maintaining air superiority against China and Russia. The F-22 is expected to remain operational until the 2050s, despite the upcoming introduction of the Boeing F-47 in 2028.

The U.S. Air Force is ramping up production of the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, with plans to acquire at least 100 units. Unveiled on December 2, 2022, in Palmdale, California, the B-21 is designed to operate in high-threat environments and will replace the B-2 Spirit. It features advanced stealth technology and is integrated with modern military networks, enhancing its operational capabilities against adversary air defenses.

The F-35 Lightning II has been tested to operate effectively in extreme cold conditions, specifically at -40°F, ensuring its readiness for operations at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. This capability is vital for NATO's defense strategy in the Arctic, especially as Russia expands its military presence in the region. The aircraft's advanced engineering, including the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine, allows for reliable sortie generation in harsh winter environments.

Ursa Major unveiled the HAVOC missile system in Colorado, which can be launched from fighter planes, bombers, and ground-based systems. This medium-range hypersonic missile is powered by a liquid rocket engine and can operate outside of Earth's atmosphere. The U.S. military is prioritizing hypersonic weapons development across all branches, contrasting with Russian and Chinese systems that are designed for nuclear capabilities.

Ursa Major unveiled the HAVOC missile system in Colorado, which can be launched from fighter planes, bombers, and ground-based systems. This new hypersonic missile is designed for rapid production and adaptability, enhancing U.S. military capabilities. Unlike Russian and Chinese systems, U.S. hypersonics are not intended for nuclear warheads, focusing instead on precision and speed.

The Eurofighter Typhoon is undergoing upgrades to enhance its capabilities in modern warfare, particularly in contested airspace. It integrates advanced systems such as the CAPTOR-E AESA radar and Meteor missile, positioning it as a high-performance platform alongside stealth fighters like the F-35. The Typhoon's role is evolving to support air superiority and precision strike missions, especially in NATO operations in the Baltics.

The F-14 Tomcat demonstrated exceptional close-quarters combat capabilities, outperforming contemporaries like the F-15 and F-16 in dogfights. Its variable-sweep wings provided agility at low speeds, while the two-person crew enhanced situational awareness. The aircraft's combat record includes notable victories during the Iran-Iraq War, showcasing its effectiveness as a fleet defense interceptor and dogfighter.

In 2012, during a training exercise at Eielson Air Force Base, German Luftwaffe pilots from Jagdgeschwader 74 engaged in simulated dogfights with U.S. F-22 Raptors. The Eurofighter Typhoons managed to score multiple simulated kills against the F-22, which was hampered by external fuel tanks that affected its maneuverability. This exercise highlighted the importance of pilot skill and tactical awareness in air combat.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is facing critical sewage system failures, impacting the quality of life for its 4,600 sailors during its extended deployment in the Middle East. The ship, which has been at sea for 230 days, is experiencing issues with its vacuum sewage system, leading to multiple toilets being out of order. This situation has raised concerns about the long-term readiness of the vessel and the well-being of its crew.

The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a contract for the F-47 Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) stealth fighter on March 21, 2025. The aircraft will utilize the Pratt & Whitney XA103 engine, which enhances fuel efficiency and thrust. This development aims to ensure air superiority against emerging threats, particularly from China.

President Trump delivered a lengthy State of the Union address in Washington, D.C., where he discussed military actions, including claims about Iran's nuclear program and the deployment of the National Guard. He made several controversial statements regarding defense spending and military operations, but provided little clarity on his policies regarding potential military action with Iran.

U.S. Army soldiers at Fort Stewart are training to operate drones under the Transformation in Contact initiative, reshaping armored warfare tactics. This program emphasizes the integration of drone technology into military operations, influenced by lessons from the conflict in Ukraine. Soldiers practice on a simulator before transitioning to real drone flights, marking a shift from traditional training methods.

U.S. Army soldiers at Fort Stewart are training to operate drones as part of the Transformation in Contact initiative, which emphasizes hands-on experimentation with new drone capabilities. This approach reflects lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine, as the Army seeks to adapt its tactics and doctrine to incorporate advanced drone technology into armored operations.

The U.S. Air Force is modernizing the F-22 Raptor to the 'Super' Raptor standard by 2026, investing $9 billion in upgrades including the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile and advanced IRST systems. This modernization aims to ensure air superiority against adversaries like China and Russia. The Rapid Raptor program enhances deployment capabilities, allowing the F-22 to be operational within 24 to 48 hours.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) has been deployed for over 230 days, transitioning from operations in Venezuela to the Middle East. This extended deployment raises concerns about the mental health of the crew, with research indicating a link between long deployments and issues such as PTSD and anxiety. The ship may remain at sea for up to 300 days, potentially supporting military operations against Iran.

The U.S. military has significantly increased its presence in the Middle East, with over 250 airlift flights and more than 150 aircraft deployed since late February. This buildup includes two carrier strike groups and numerous air defense assets, indicating preparations for potential military action against Iran. Gulf states, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, express alarm over the implications of this military concentration, fearing they may become targets in any conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force awarded a contract to Honeywell for the development of a small engine for its autonomous drone wingmen on February 23. The SkyShot 1600 engine will be adapted for use in the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which includes unmanned systems designed to operate alongside human pilots in various mission sets. The U.S. Navy is also pursuing similar drone technology.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a contract to Honeywell for the development of a new engine for its autonomous drone wingmen on February 23. The SkyShot 1600 engine will be adapted for use in the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which includes unmanned systems designed to operate alongside human pilots. This initiative reflects ongoing advancements in military drone technology.

Air Force test pilots successfully used artificial intelligence aboard the experimental X-62A Vista jet to evade a simulated incoming missile during a test in Aurora, Colorado. The AI autonomously conducted evasive maneuvers, demonstrating potential future applications of AI in combat scenarios. The project, named 'Have Remy', aims to enhance pilot training and address public concerns regarding AI in military operations.

Lockheed Martin tested AI-enhanced targeting capabilities on the F-35 fighter jet at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. This marked the first instance of a tactical AI model independently suggesting combat targets to pilots. The company plans to continue developing AI-driven decision-making models to improve target identification speed for pilots, emphasizing the importance of reprogramming AI for future sorties.