Analysis & Reports

China has supplied military technology and weapons to Iran since the 1980s, significantly enhancing Iran's coastal missile capabilities. This includes the provision of HY-2 Silkworm anti-ship missiles and technology for the Noor missile. Iran has developed a robust missile program, enabling it to create an anti-access environment in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf, complicating U.S. military operations in the region.

Houthi forces launched strikes using ballistic missiles and drones against Saudi-related military targets in Mocha and Marib Province on November 11. The attacks reportedly hit military personnel and command centers, resulting in numerous casualties, including Saudi personnel. Houthi spokesperson Yahya stated that these strikes were precise and indicated ongoing military operations against Saudi forces.

The U.S. Army awarded contracts to six vendors for its Infantry Last Tactical Mile initiative, aimed at developing unmanned ground vehicles for logistics and casualty evacuation in contested areas. Each vendor will provide four prototypes, with demonstrations planned to assess their effectiveness. The initiative is part of the Army's effort to enhance operational capabilities in challenging environments.

U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers conducted airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure from RAF Fairford, targeting ballistic missile production facilities and command centers. The operation, part of Operation Epic Fury, resulted in significant damage to Iranian capabilities and the elimination of senior Iranian leadership. The B-1B Lancer, capable of carrying a massive payload, played a crucial role in these strikes.

The U.S. Air Force deployed 15 B-1B Lancer bombers to RAF Fairford to conduct airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure from February to March 2026. These strikes targeted ballistic missile production facilities and command centers, resulting in the deaths of key Iranian leadership figures. The B-1B, capable of carrying a payload of 125,000 pounds, played a crucial role in the operation.

The Space and Missile Defense Symposium commenced in Huntsville, Alabama, on August 11, 2026, featuring numerous U.S. and international defense firms showcasing advanced weapon systems. Key military officials, including Gen. Mike Guetlein, participated in discussions about the latest developments in space and missile technology.

U.S. military officials at the Army Space and Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville discussed the potential of laser weapons and directed energy systems for counterspace operations. They highlighted the cost-effectiveness of these technologies and expressed concerns over advancements in laser anti-satellite systems by China and Russia. The integration of cyber and space operations was emphasized as a means to enhance military effectiveness against proliferated satellite constellations.

Boeing announced the development of an Ultra Low-Cost Seeker (ULCS) for missiles, aimed at enhancing missile guidance and reducing costs. Concurrently, Northrop Grumman revealed its 50 mm gun-based air defense system, the Raid Hunter, designed for short-range defense against drones and cruise missiles. Both developments were announced during the Space and Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville, Alabama, with future tests planned for next year and an operational prototype of the Raid Hunter expected by summer 2027.

The U.S. military sank the Iranian drone carrier Shahid Bagheri in the Khuran Strait on February 28, 2026, during Operation Epic Fury. The carrier, built over two years, was a converted commercial ship designed for unmanned aircraft operations. U.S. forces confirmed the strike, which left the vessel burning and ultimately grounded in shallow water, marking the loss of Iran's only dedicated fixed-wing drone ship.

The Hubei amphibious assault ship of the People's Liberation Army Navy completed its full training assessment and is now combat-ready for missions. The assessment included various exercises in the South China Sea, demonstrating the ship's capabilities in live-fire scenarios and anti-aircraft operations. This marks a significant milestone in the ship's operational readiness since its commissioning on August 1, 2025.

Iran and North Korea have established a cooperative missile relationship since the 1980s, involving technology exchange and joint development of missile systems. This partnership has evolved from simple transactions to a more symbiotic relationship, with Iran developing its own missile capabilities while benefiting from North Korean technology. The Shahab-3 missile, derived from North Korea's Nodong, exemplifies this cooperation, enhancing Iran's military capabilities significantly.

The U.S. Army has replaced Infantry Squad Vehicles (ISVs) with 12 Polaris MRZR Alphas for testing off-road autonomy. This decision follows challenges with the previous UxS plan and aims to create a competitive environment for autonomy software development. CPE Mission Autonomy is overseeing the initiative, allowing multiple companies to test their software on the MRZR platform.

Boeing unveiled its Ultra Low-Cost Seeker (ULCS) at the Space and Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville, Alabama, aiming to enhance missile guidance affordability. The seeker, designed for various weapon systems, successfully tracked targets during tests conducted earlier this summer. Built from commercial parts, the ULCS is still in development and is intended for use in air, land, and sea strikes against moving targets.

Iran has maintained and upgraded its fleet of M60 tanks, originally purchased in the 1970s, with approximately 150 M60A1s still operational. The Iranian Army continues to modernize these tanks, introducing upgrades like the Soleiman-402, which features enhanced armor and electronic systems. Despite sanctions and historical challenges, Iran's efforts reflect a commitment to preserving its armored capabilities.

U.S. strikes targeted Iranian submarine capabilities in Bandar Abbas on March 19, 2026, following assessments that Iran had 24 mini-submarines. The strikes aimed at degrading Iran's naval infrastructure, which suffered significant losses during the conflict. Despite claims of total destruction, the exact number of surviving Ghadir-class submarines remains unverified, raising concerns about Iran's ongoing naval capabilities.

CSG Group and Zakłady Metalowe Dezamet S.A. signed an agreement on 24 July 2026 for over EUR 100 million to supply components for 155 mm artillery ammunition production in Poland. This agreement reflects a long-term partnership aimed at enhancing the defense capabilities of NATO and EU countries, with a focus on supplying the Polish Armed Forces.

Joby Aviation announced its acquisition of Resonant Sciences for $500 million to create a dedicated defense business in Dayton, Ohio. The deal, expected to close in the first half of 2027, aims to leverage Resonant's expertise in radio frequency systems and mission technologies to develop low-cost autonomous aircraft. Joby plans to integrate its existing military work with Resonant's capabilities, focusing on dual-use turbine-electric and hydrogen-electric aircraft.

Patria and KNDS signed a framework agreement for the assembly and integration of Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers in Germany as part of the multinational CAVS program. Deliveries to the Bundeswehr are set to ramp up in early 2027, with local production increasing thereafter. The program aims to enhance European defense manufacturing capacity and provide modern armored vehicles to participating nations.

ePropelled announced a significant expansion of its manufacturing operations in Laconia, New Hampshire, on August 11, 2026, supported by $60 million in U.S. government funding. The expansion will increase production capacity for electric propulsion systems by over four times, catering to both government and commercial drone programs. This initiative aims to bolster the domestic supply chain for critical drone technologies and create skilled jobs in the region.

ePropelled announced a significant expansion of its manufacturing operations in Laconia, New Hampshire, on August 11, 2026, supported by $60 million in U.S. government funding. The expansion will increase its production capacity for electric propulsion systems by over four times, addressing the growing demand from government and commercial sectors. The new facility will feature advanced automated production lines and is expected to create skilled jobs while enhancing the domestic supply chain for critical drone technologies.