Analysis & Reports

Canada is considering a significant reduction in its F-35 order, planning to purchase no more than 40 F-35A stealth jets while potentially acquiring up to 80 Gripen E fighters. This shift aims to diversify defense partnerships and mitigate political risks associated with U.S. procurement. The decision is still under review, with no final agreement reached as of January 28, 2025.

The Pentagon announced the formation of a new Science, Technology and Innovation Board (STIB) to streamline technological and scientific efforts in national security, amidst cuts to science research funding. The STIB aims to enhance the integration of artificial intelligence and address key technological challenges. However, the Pentagon is also reducing support for basic research, which may hinder future innovation and military capabilities.

The Pentagon established the Science, Technology, and Innovation Board to enhance its approach to defense technology and research. This move follows recent funding cuts for basic research at U.S. universities and aims to accelerate the integration of artificial intelligence and advanced technologies into military operations. Concerns about the board's lack of diversity and its impact on credibility have been raised, alongside ongoing efforts to streamline technology procurement processes.

The National Museum of the U.S. Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, closed indefinitely on January 31, 2023, due to a lapse in federal funding. This closure blocks public access to a significant military aviation collection and resources for veterans and researchers. The museum will remain closed until Congress resolves the funding issue and the Department of Defense authorizes operations to resume.

President Trump urged the House on Monday to quickly vote to end the partial government shutdown, emphasizing the need for bipartisan support. Democrats are resisting the funding package unless their demands for changes to immigration enforcement are met. House Speaker Mike Johnson faces challenges from both parties as he attempts to secure the necessary votes to advance the legislation, which affects several federal agencies, including the Pentagon.

Joseph Felix, a former Marine drill instructor, was arrested in Burton, South Carolina, on January 25, 2024, for cruelty to children. He had previously been sentenced to 10 years in prison for hazing recruits, including a recruit who died, and was released early for good behavior. His actions and the subsequent investigations led to significant repercussions for multiple Marines involved in the hazing scandal at Parris Island.

Joseph Felix, a former Marine drill instructor, was arrested in Burton, South Carolina, on January 25, 2024, for cruelty to children after being released early from a 10-year prison sentence for hazing that resulted in a recruit's death. His early release was granted for good behavior after serving over seven years. The original hazing incident, involving recruit Raheel Siddiqui, led to significant investigations and multiple Marines being court-martialed.

Breaking Defense launched a new video series titled Pentagon Buzz, focusing on national security policies and the Department of Defense. The series aims to provide insights into the people and politics that shape military and defense industry decisions. Viewers are encouraged to stay tuned for the first episode.

The U.S. government has failed to address nuclear proliferation in its recent National Defense Strategy, opting for a case-by-case approach over the past 16 years. This strategy has led to concerns about the implications of nuclear weapons in the hands of allies and adversaries alike. The report advocates for a renewed and effective nuclear nonproliferation policy to mitigate risks associated with the spread of nuclear weapons.

The Department of Veterans Affairs has ended nearly all abortions at VA facilities, reverting to a pre-2022 policy that requires patients to seek care outside the department. This final rule, issued on December 31, 2022, allows abortions only when the mother's life is at risk. Democratic lawmakers are seeking to overturn this decision, which they argue limits healthcare options for women veterans.

The U.S. Army is experiencing an increase in the average enlistment age of new recruits, now at 22.7 years for fiscal year 2026. This shift reflects changes in recruitment strategies aimed at older Americans, particularly following the COVID-19 pandemic. Army leadership indicates a focus on attracting individuals with specialized skills, suggesting a potential long-term change in enlistment demographics.

Booz Allen Hamilton is actively developing advanced technology and engineering solutions for defense needs in the United States. The company operates multiple engineering and manufacturing facilities and has established a $300 million venture capital fund to support small businesses in defense technology. They are collaborating with L3Harris on the Tactical Operations Center-Light (TOC-L) prototype and advancing hypersonic technologies to enhance military capabilities.

The U.S. Navy plans to commission a single Defiant-class battleship, known as the Trump-Class, which may be canceled after one hull. This decision could be misinterpreted as a procurement failure, but it would significantly impact the Navy's strategic direction, limiting its ability to move beyond a carrier-centric fleet. The Trump-Class is intended to enhance combat relevance in contested environments through missile-centric capabilities.

U.S. military presence in the Middle East is reinforced with the USS Abraham Lincoln and additional naval assets as tensions with Iran escalate. President Trump indicated that Iran is engaging in dialogue, suggesting a potential agreement to avoid military action. Iran's Supreme Leader warned that any U.S. attack would trigger regional conflict, highlighting the precarious situation. The U.S. seeks to balance military deterrence with diplomatic overtures.

Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi held discussions with U.S. military officials in Washington on February 1, focusing on defense arrangements regarding Iran. The meetings included assessments of the security situation and military readiness. Following the discussions, Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu convened a meeting with senior officials to evaluate the implications of Halevi's visit.

Donald Trump announced plans for a new class of guided-missile battleships, the Trump-class, as part of the Golden Fleet initiative in December 2025. The program aims to enhance U.S. naval capabilities but faces criticism regarding resource allocation and potential political risks of cancellation. The U.S. Navy supports the initiative, highlighting its multi-mission capabilities and strategic importance in countering emerging threats.

The U.S. Navy is facing challenges regarding the Trump-class battleship, which is projected to cost $13.5 billion and features advanced weaponry. Concerns about labor shortages and political support could impact its development. The Navy aims to increase its fleet to 333 operational warships by January 2029, amidst competition from China's naval capabilities.

The U.S. Navy's SSN(X) submarine program is experiencing significant delays, with procurement now pushed to the early 2040s. Congress is hesitant to support the program due to its estimated $8 billion cost per hull and concerns over its capabilities. Meanwhile, China's navy continues to expand, producing submarines at a faster rate than the U.S.

The U.S. government approved military sales totaling $15.67 billion to Israel and Saudi Arabia on January 30, 2023. This includes 730 Patriot missiles and 30 Apache helicopters for Israel, aimed at enhancing regional security amid escalating tensions with Iran. The sales are part of a broader strategy to support U.S. allies in the Middle East and are linked to ongoing diplomatic efforts to stabilize the region.

The second round of talks between Russia, the U.S., and Ukraine scheduled for February 1 in Abu Dhabi remains uncertain. Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that direct contact with Putin is necessary to address territorial issues. Meanwhile, U.S. and Russian representatives held constructive discussions in Miami regarding a peace plan.