Analysis & Reports

Ondas Holdings unveiled the Iron-Wave modular ground robotic system, designed to enhance military and security operations by integrating multiple unmanned platforms under centralized control. This system aims to reduce the operator burden and improve operational flexibility in contested environments. It features advanced capabilities, including counter-drone technology, to address emerging threats in modern warfare.

HII delivered two ROMULUS-25 autonomous vessels to the U.S. Marine Corps in December 2025 after successful sea testing. These 27-foot high-speed interceptors are designed for expeditionary operations, capable of carrying 1,000 pounds and reaching 1,000 nautical miles. The vessels utilize the Odyssey autonomy suite for advanced decision-making, aligning with the Marine Corps' operational concepts in contested littoral environments.

B.E. Meyers & Co. is set to unveil the VSLAP-V1 targeting laser system at SOF Week 2026 in Tampa, Florida, on May 18. This new high-power laser system, featuring DeathStar technology, is designed for special operations forces and enhances target illumination and communication capabilities. The device builds on the legacy of the IZLID systems used by U.S. military units for air-to-ground integration.

The U.S. Navy's F-14 Tomcat, developed after the rejection of the F-111B, has gained renewed attention following the Senate's passage of the 'Maverick Act of 2026' to preserve surviving aircraft. This legislation aims to allow for potential commemorative flights of the F-14s, which were originally designed for fleet defense against Soviet bombers. The F-14 Tomcat, with 712 units built, entered service in the 1970s and was a significant advancement in naval aviation.

Anduril is set to deliver at least 3,000 Barracuda-500M cruise missiles to the U.S. Army starting in 2027, as part of a three-year procurement agreement. The missiles, designed for long-range strikes, will be produced at Anduril's new facility in Columbus, Ohio. U.S. Army officials stress the importance of developing low-cost munitions to adapt to modern warfare challenges.

The Lockheed YF-12A successfully fired a missile at a QB-47 target aircraft while traveling at Mach 3.2 and 75,000 feet during testing at Edwards Air Force Base in 1965. This aircraft was developed to intercept Soviet bombers using advanced radar and long-range missiles. Despite its capabilities, the operational variant, F-12B, was canceled due to changing military priorities.

The Lockheed YF-12A successfully fired a missile at a QB-47 target aircraft flying at 500 feet during a test at Edwards Air Force Base in 1965. The YF-12A, capable of Mach 3.2, was developed to intercept Soviet bombers using advanced radar and long-range missiles. Despite its capabilities, the operational variant was canceled due to changing military priorities.

The U.S. Air Force is revising its B-21 Raider procurement target, increasing it from 100 to potentially over 200 aircraft due to concerns about future military conflicts. This decision follows recent operations against Iran and growing recognition of the need for a larger stealth bomber fleet to address threats from adversaries like China. The revised target will be included in the FY2028 budget request, expected in spring 2027.

AIRO Group unveiled its new JC250 cargo and JX250 ISR VTOL drones in Detroit, featuring hybrid-electric propulsion and 'slowed rotor' technology. The drones are designed for military logistics and civilian use, with a first flight expected by the end of the year. They aim to provide flexible resupply capabilities in remote areas without charging infrastructure.

The U.S. Marine Corps conducted Exercise Balikatan 2026 in the Philippines from April 20 to May 8, involving over 2,000 personnel from the 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment. They practiced seizing remote islands in the Luzon Strait, deploying NMESIS missile systems for simulated fire missions. The exercise emphasized collaboration with regional allies and included the use of advanced air defense systems to counter drone threats.

The U.S. Army plans to allocate nearly $1 billion for small counter unmanned aerial system technology in Fiscal Year 2027, significantly increasing its budget from the previous year. This funding will support various capabilities, including operational systems, logistics, and new weapon systems to enhance defense against drone threats. The budget reflects the Army's response to the growing use of inexpensive drones in modern warfare, particularly observed in conflicts like Ukraine.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking companies to develop next-generation air-launched weapons through the Advanced Research for Air-delivered Munitions (ARAM) program, as published in a market survey on May 14, 2023. This initiative, based at Eglin Air Force Base in Florida, aims to address the increasing demand for precision munitions highlighted by recent conflicts. The program is open to all defense companies, emphasizing the Air Force's interest in innovative solutions.

The U.S. Air Force admitted to Congress that it lacks sufficient defenses against drone incursions at its bases, particularly at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana. Lt. Gen. David Tabor stated that current resources are inadequate for future threats and that the Air Force is still developing effective counter-drone capabilities. The issue raises concerns about the security of sensitive military infrastructure and the potential for adversary reconnaissance.

BAE Systems secured a $535.6 million contract from the U.S. Army for self-propelled howitzer systems and fielding kits, effective through December 31, 2029. The contract, awarded by Army Contracting Command at Detroit Arsenal, Michigan, emphasizes the production of the M109A7 Paladin and includes logistical support for operational deployment. This move aligns with the Army's ongoing artillery modernization efforts in response to recent global conflicts.

Defenders of the Golden Dome program, led by Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein, disputed a $1.2 trillion cost estimate from the Congressional Budget Office during the Inside the Dome event in Washington, D.C. They argued that the estimate relies on outdated information and does not reflect the current missile defense architecture. The program has received substantial funding, but its future remains uncertain amid political opposition.

Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia, introduced a new bayonet training course in April 2023 to assess students' mental toughness and combat readiness. The course requires students to engage in various physical challenges while using bayonets against silicone targets. This training aims to prepare soldiers for the realities of close combat and terrain control in battle.

Quantum Space is constructing its first satellite and establishing a manufacturing facility in Tulsa, Oklahoma, to support propulsion testing. The Army's 18th Airborne Corps successfully tested autonomous medical resupply using drones. Additionally, Anduril secured $5 billion in funding, raising its valuation to $61 billion, indicating strong investment in defense technology.

The U.S. Air Force confirmed the modernization of the B-52 Stratofortress is stabilized after years of delays and rising costs. The B-52 Commercial Engine Replacement Program is projected to cost $15 billion, while radar upgrades have also seen significant cost increases. The Air Force plans to keep the B-1 Lancer operational until 2037 and is conducting an analysis for future bomber requirements.

General Michael Guetlein criticized the Congressional Budget Office's estimate of the Golden Dome program's cost, asserting it is based on outdated technology. He stated the actual cost would be around $185 billion and emphasized the need for a different defense architecture for homeland security. Guetlein expressed confidence in the feasibility of space-based interceptors and projected that the Golden Dome would be operational by 2028, capable of protecting the entire U.S. homeland from various threats.

Quantum Space plans to establish a satellite manufacturing facility in Tulsa, Oklahoma, aiming to produce 1,000 satellites annually. The company is developing advanced technologies for its Ranger Prime satellite, including multi-mode propulsion and in-space refueling capabilities. Initial operations are expected to begin in early 2027, with contracts secured from DARPA and the Space Force to support these efforts.