Analysis & Reports

The F-20 Tigershark, developed by Northrop as a high-tech interceptor, was ultimately canceled in 1986 after two prototypes were lost. Despite its advanced features and capabilities, it failed to secure international sales as allies opted for the F-16. The program represents a significant investment in military aviation technology that did not yield financial returns.

On February 18, 2026, the U.S. and Japan held discussions in Washington D.C. to strengthen nuclear deterrence and reorganize the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. The U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to Japan's defense, including nuclear capabilities, while Japan announced a significant reorganization of its maritime forces. Concerns over the safety of V-22 Ospreys led to the cancellation of a joint exercise in Okinawa.

Tanaka TakashiSun Feb 22 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy relies on three Seawolf-class submarines for high-risk operations, with the USS Connecticut sidelined since a 2021 collision. This limited fleet hampers U.S. military readiness as China expands its naval capabilities. The decision to cut the planned fleet from 29 to 3 submarines has left the Navy in a strategic disadvantage, unable to effectively counter near-peer rivals.

Pastor Doug Wilson delivered a devotional worship service at the Pentagon this week, attended by hundreds of troops. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth supported Wilson's invitation, despite Wilson's controversial views on women in combat and gender roles. Critics have raised concerns about the implications of this alignment between military leadership and specific religious beliefs.

In February 2026, Canada confirmed it is making payments for 14 additional F-35 aircraft, raising its total commitment to 30 jets. This decision comes amid a strategic review of its defense policy, which may lead to a mixed fleet of F-35s and Saab Gripen fighters to enhance domestic production and reduce reliance on U.S. defense supplies. The government aims to address geopolitical tensions while maintaining military readiness.

The U.S. Air Force deployed 16 aging E-3 Sentry aircraft to the Middle East this week, highlighting the urgent need for a replacement. The E-7 Wedgetail is planned to replace the E-3, with the first units expected by 2027, but its future remains uncertain after the Pentagon attempted to cancel the program. Retired military leaders have urged Congress to support the E-7, emphasizing the E-3's critical role in air operations.

The U.S. Navy plans to phase out its original physical training uniform (PTU) in 2027, replacing it with a newer uniform featuring blue shirts and shorts. This decision follows sailor feedback indicating a preference for the new design, which is expected to reduce uniform costs and improve fit. The transition to the new uniform will begin in 2027, depending on production schedules.

U.S. President Donald Trump issued an executive order in February 2025 to restructure foreign arms sales, focusing on prioritizing countries that invest in their self-defense. The order aims to streamline processes and improve transparency in arms sales, potentially reshuffling the priority list for arms recipients. Canada is responding by seeking to diversify its defense partnerships away from the U.S.

U.S. Ambassador Andrew Razder warned Europe against implementing 'Buy European' defense regulations during a diplomatic intervention on February 20, 2026. This warning followed British Prime Minister Keir Starmer's call for European defense autonomy at the Munich Security Conference, highlighting tensions in transatlantic defense relations. Razder emphasized the importance of NATO interoperability and the deep integration of U.S. and European defense industries.

Dr. Klaus WeberFri Feb 20 2026Loading...

U.S. President Trump is considering limited military strikes against Iran if an agreement is not reached by the set deadline. During a breakfast meeting with governors at the White House on February 20, he indicated that military action is on the table. Reports suggest that the U.S. military could initiate these strikes within days to compel Iran to make concessions.

On February 11, 2023, the FAA imposed a 10-day flight restriction over El Paso International Airport due to alleged drone incursions, later attributed to party balloons. Customs and Border Patrol deployed anti-drone technology without proper coordination with the FAA, prompting concerns from lawmakers and experts about interagency communication failures. The incident highlights potential future challenges in managing drone threats and airspace security as the Pentagon expands its counter-drone authorities.

The U.S. Marine Corps has decided to retain the M27 Infantry Automatic Rifle for its close combat formations, rejecting the Army’s M7 Next Generation Squad Weapon. This decision aligns with the Marine Corps' unique service requirements and modernization priorities. The Marine Corps will continue to monitor the Army's M7 program for future considerations.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a $94.7 million contract to DCS for the development of advanced multi-domain analysis systems at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio. This contract, announced on February 19, 2026, aims to enhance mission-level operational effects modeling across air, ground, space, and cyber domains, with completion expected by February 19, 2031. The initiative supports the Air Force's multi-domain operational framework and focuses on integrating real-world sensor data with simulated conditions.

A video featuring the 'Red River Ship' from the Chinese Navy creates a strong immersive experience for viewers, making it appear as if the ship is leaping out of the screen. This presentation has garnered significant attention on social media.

The U.S. is preparing to resume nuclear testing and modernize its nuclear arsenal following the expiration of the New START Treaty in February 2026. This shift, advocated by political figures like Sen. Tom Cotton, could lead to a dangerous arms race involving Russia and China. The U.S. has also withdrawn from several key arms control agreements, further escalating tensions in global nuclear strategy.

Canada is reviewing its 2023 agreement to purchase 88 F-35 Lightning II fighters from the U.S. while considering alternatives like the Saab JAS 39 Gripen. This review is influenced by deteriorating U.S.-Canada relations and concerns over reliance on American defense supply chains. Despite the review, Canada continues to fund long-lead components for the F-35, indicating a likely continuation of the purchase.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu threatened Iran with severe retaliation if it attacks Israel in response to U.S. military actions. He stated that Israel is prepared for any situation and is coordinating closely with the U.S. The U.S. is reportedly increasing its military presence in the Middle East and considering military action against Iran, with Israeli officials suggesting that such actions may occur sooner than anticipated.

Embraer and Northrop Grumman are collaborating to promote the KC-390 Millennium to the US Air Force and other foreign militaries, focusing on integrating an autonomous boom refueling system. This partnership aims to enhance Embraer's market entry into the US defense sector, following a previous failed agreement with L3Harris. The KC-390 is designed to meet the refueling needs of various aircraft, including those of the US Air Force, and Embraer is prepared to increase its investment in the US manufacturing sector.

SpaceX and Blue Origin are redirecting their efforts towards lunar development, influenced by U.S. Department of Defense initiatives. SpaceX announced plans to establish a lunar city, while Blue Origin paused its New Shepard program to focus on lunar logistics. These shifts align with the Pentagon's Golden Dome initiative, which aims to enhance missile detection and surveillance capabilities through lunar infrastructure. The timeline for these developments is set for 2025 to 2030.

SpaceX and Blue Origin are redirecting their efforts toward lunar development, influenced by the U.S. Department of Defense's Golden Dome missile defense initiative. SpaceX announced plans to establish a lunar city, while Blue Origin paused its New Shepard program to focus on lunar logistics. These shifts suggest a strategic alignment with national defense goals, aiming for a permanent lunar presence by 2030.