Analysis & Reports

U.S. Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) is reevaluating its exercise schedule to preserve readiness amid increased global commitments, particularly in the Middle East. Gen. Kevin Schneider highlighted the need to manage risks and prioritize exercises that enhance readiness. The U.S. has also requested significant supplemental funding to support ongoing military operations, including the conflict in Iran.

Ukrainian forces struck the Iranian vessel Anna in the Caspian Sea on 27-28 July 2023, targeting a supply route for drones between Russia and Iran. This operation is part of Ukraine's broader strategy to disrupt Russian logistics and military supply chains. Iranian officials reported casualties among the crew, indicating the strike's impact on the ongoing military cooperation between Russia and Iran.

Dmitri VolkovTue Jul 28 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force planned to produce 750 F-22 Raptors but ultimately built only 187 due to budget constraints and changing military needs from 1991 to 2009. The aircraft was designed to replace the F-15 and counter Soviet threats, but production was curtailed as the geopolitical landscape shifted. Development delays and cost overruns further complicated the program, leading to a focus on the F-35 as a primary air superiority solution.

The U.S. Navy's modernization of Ticonderoga-class cruisers faced significant challenges, with only three of eleven ships completing the process by July 2026. The Navy spent $3.7 billion, but four cruisers were retired before returning to service, resulting in a loss of missile capacity. The program experienced delays and cost overruns, prompting the Navy to apply lessons learned to future destroyer upgrades.

The U.S. Army awarded a $55.7 million contract to DRS Network and Imaging Systems for engineering services to upgrade the Improved Bradley Acquisition Subsystem (IBAS) on July 6, 2026, in Melbourne, Florida. This subsystem is essential for the targeting capabilities of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle. The contract was issued on a sole-source basis, as DRS is the only company capable of performing the required work.

The U.S. Army awarded a $347.5 million contract to Lockheed Martin for the development of a new containerized Patriot missile launcher and guidance system to address radar blind spots. This contract, effective July 1, 2026, builds on a previous $61 million Phase 1 contract and aims to enhance air defense capabilities with 360-degree tracking. The program includes multiple development increments to ensure effective design and production.

Pratt & Whitney was awarded a $54 million contract to perform engineering work on the F135 engine, which powers the F-35 Lightning II. The contract, part of a broader agreement with the U.S. Navy, aims to address ongoing technical issues and improve operational readiness. Work will be conducted at multiple locations, with the majority in East Hartford, Connecticut, and is expected to conclude by December 2028.

General Dynamics-OTS Inc. was awarded a $33.9 million contract to produce low collateral bomb cases in Lincoln, Nebraska. This contract aims to enhance precision in military operations by minimizing civilian casualties. The Army will issue task orders to determine the specifics of the work, which is expected to be completed by July 26, 2029.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $17.1 million modification to Attalon Inc. for the development of a 400-kilowatt directed-energy laser weapon system in Murrieta, California. This system aims to effectively counter incoming drones and missiles, with project completion expected by January 2028. The initiative is part of the SONGBOW program, which seeks to enhance naval defense capabilities against swarms of low-cost threats.

The U.S. Air Force is developing next-generation engine prototypes for potential integration into aircraft by 2030, with testing from GE Aerospace and Pratt & Whitney underway in Dayton. The program, known as Next Generation Adaptive Propulsion (NGAP), is budgeted to peak at nearly $906 million in FY28. While the F-47 may utilize this new engine, no final decisions have been made regarding its application.

The U.S. Air Force plans to resume radar development and testing for the B-52 Stratofortress following a crash on June 15 that killed eight crew members. The radar modernization program aims to enhance the bombers' capabilities and keep them operational until at least the 2050s. Despite the crash, officials assert they remain on track with the program, although adjustments to the schedule may be necessary.

The U.S. Air Force plans to resume radar development and testing for the B-52 Stratofortress following a crash on June 15 that killed eight crew members. Officials indicated that the radar modernization program, aimed at extending the operational life of the B-52s, is still on track despite delays. The program includes the installation of a new Raytheon-built radar system, with the first test aircraft delivered to Edwards Air Force Base in late 2025.

The U.S. Navy is set to retire the USS Georgia on July 31, 2026, along with other Ohio-class submarines, which will significantly reduce its Tomahawk missile deployment capacity. Each submarine can carry 154 Tomahawk missiles, totaling 616 across the fleet. The Navy plans to enhance its capabilities with the Virginia Payload Module, but current production rates and delays hinder immediate replacements.

The U.S. Navy is budgeting $50 million to $100 million for the retirement of four nuclear submarines in Fiscal Year 2027. This process includes the removal of weapons, deactivation of systems, and safe disposal of spent nuclear fuel. The submarines will undergo a controlled industrial process at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard before the reactor compartments are sealed and transported to Hanford Site for long-term disposal.

U.S. President Trump stated he is willing to negotiate with Iran but will resume military strikes if no agreement is reached. He emphasized the U.S. military's readiness and sufficient ammunition stockpiles. Ongoing negotiations involve Iran and Oman, with participation from Qatar, Pakistan, and Egypt. Trump also mentioned a sense of urgency in reaching an agreement before military action is considered.

The U.S. Navy revised its transfer policy, mandating that sailors under investigation for sexual assault or stalking be transferred only to shore commands. This decision follows the murder of Petty Officer 3rd Class Angelina Resendiz, prompting a review of procedures to enhance safety and coordination among military authorities. Jermiah Copeland was sentenced to 44 years for her murder, highlighting the need for stricter oversight in such cases.

Canada joined the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) as an observer on July 21, 2023, allowing access to fighter development without financial commitment. This strategic move aims to reduce reliance on American defense suppliers while exploring future participation in the program. The GCAP is expected to produce a sixth-generation fighter by 2035, aligning with Canada's defense diversification strategy.

The U.S. Navy operates 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, while France has the Charles de Gaulle and Russia is restoring the Admiral Nakhimov. The report highlights the strategic decisions behind the limited use of nuclear propulsion in surface warships, emphasizing the logistical challenges and costs associated with nuclear-powered vessels compared to conventional ones. The U.S. Navy's historical experience with nuclear cruisers illustrates the complexities of integrating nuclear power into surface fleets.

The U.S. Army awarded contracts to GM Defense, Ford, and BC Customs to develop nine ISV-Heavy prototypes, with delivery expected by March 30, 2027. This initiative aims to enhance battlefield capabilities and address a critical power supply gap. The prototypes will undergo operational assessments and limited testing by the Army Test and Evaluation Command.

The US Coast Guard is seeking technology solutions to defeat unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs) to enhance port security. The request highlights the inadequacy of current technologies for mitigation and emphasizes the need for commercially available systems by August 7, 2024. This initiative comes amid rising threats from UUVs, necessitating effective detection and defeat capabilities.