Analysis & Reports

Lockheed Martin and L3Harris are significantly increasing the production of Patriot PAC-3 missiles, aiming for 2,000 units annually by 2027. This surge responds to urgent demands from Ukraine and NATO allies facing missile threats. The production expansion highlights the need for a diversified air defense strategy, as current reliance on expensive interceptors is unsustainable against cheaper drone threats. NATO's air defense capabilities remain under strain, necessitating coordinated procurement and increased production efforts across Europe.

Alexandra ReevesWed Sep 16 2026Loading...

The U.S. government is preparing to provide Israel with $2.8 billion in ammunition, including 40,000 high-destruction 2000-pound bombs, as reported on September 15, 2023. This military aid has drawn criticism due to concerns over civilian casualties in ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Lebanon, where these bombs have been extensively used. The provision of such weaponry raises significant political and military implications.

The Houthi armed group denied accusations of using drones to attack Mecca, calling the claims false. Earlier, a spokesperson for the Saudi-led coalition stated that Saudi air defense forces intercepted and destroyed a Houthi drone heading towards Mecca on September 15.

The U.S. government plans to sell $2.8 billion worth of military arms to Israel, including 20,000 MK-84 bombs and 20,000 BLU-117 bombs. This arms sale has been informally communicated to relevant congressional committees. Israel has been using these powerful bombs in the Gaza Strip and Lebanon, leading to serious casualties and drawing attention from human rights experts.

The US Air Force is preparing its bomber fleet, including 76 B-52H Stratofortresses, 45 B-1B Lancers, and 19 B-2 Spirits, for potential deployment in Yemen to support Saudi Arabia against the Houthis. The Air Force faces modernization challenges, with many programs running late or over budget, while the North Star Readiness Campaign aims to enhance the readiness of its aircraft. Yemen's dispersed Houthi forces complicate potential airstrike operations.

Turkey has certified the Hürkus-II military training aircraft as safe and airworthy, marking the first time this process was conducted entirely by Turkish personnel. The certification involved verifying 1,790 requirements and conducting 153 tests. This achievement is seen as a strategic milestone for the Turkish aviation industry and enhances Turkey's capabilities in developing future air platforms.

Iran's National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei announced that Iran will not engage in negotiations with the U.S. unless its conditions are met, highlighting a shift in the situation regarding oil and the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. President Trump indicated an open attitude towards negotiations but stated that military actions would not be considered until after the November elections. The previous memorandum of understanding between the two nations was compromised shortly after its establishment.

The documentary 'Collateral Damage (NAZA)' reveals alleged war crimes by the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip, winning a special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the film, claiming it incites anti-Semitism and misrepresents the military. The film features interviews with 24 Israeli intelligence officials and soldiers, with claims of indiscriminate killings. Following its release, several Israeli officials threatened to revoke the filmmakers' citizenship.

Iran's Foreign Ministry announced the postponement of a meeting on maritime routes in the Strait of Hormuz at Saudi Arabia's request. This comes amid rising tensions and attacks on shipping routes in the region, impacting global energy supply. Oman is working to facilitate dialogue for regional stability, while Saudi Arabia has intensified military operations in Yemen, conducting over 300 airstrikes in recent days.

U.S. and South Korean officials are holding high-level security talks this week to discuss a potential South Korean military deployment to the Strait of Hormuz. The discussions include the deployment of a P-8 Poseidon aircraft and a naval logistics support vessel, involving about 150 personnel. The South Korean government has not made a final decision, as any deployment requires approval from the National Assembly.

The U.S. military is evaluating its presence in the Middle East following significant Iranian attacks, which have resulted in 18 U.S. soldier fatalities. Discussions include potentially relocating bases underground to enhance security and reducing troop numbers. The Pentagon is also considering not repairing severely damaged facilities and shifting some reconnaissance operations away from permanent military personnel in the region.

Houthi forces attacked a Saudi military base using drones and missiles and captured Perlin Island on November 11, escalating the conflict in Yemen. The U.S. is facing a dilemma as Saudi Arabia seeks military support while the Houthis threaten international shipping in the Mandeb Strait. U.S. President Trump confirmed discussions with Saudi officials regarding the situation.

Oman and the United States held a joint military committee meeting in Washington on September 12, 2026, to enhance military cooperation amid security challenges in the Gulf. The discussions focused on strengthening military collaboration and operational readiness, particularly in response to recent disruptions in maritime navigation due to Iranian actions. The partnership aims to improve maritime security while maintaining Oman's political independence.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Sep 13 2026Loading...

Iran captured a U.S. military unmanned underwater vehicle, the Dive-LD, on September 9, 2023. This incident provides Iran with an opportunity for reverse engineering, which could enhance its military capabilities. The U.S. military and the manufacturer, Anduril, are attempting to minimize the impact of this event, which is seen as a propaganda victory for Tehran.

Nuclear-armed states expanded their arsenals in 2025, with the global count of nuclear warheads reaching approximately 12,187. The United States and Russia continue to lead in warhead numbers, while China and India also increased their stockpiles. The expiration of the New START treaty in February 2026 has reduced transparency regarding nuclear deployments. Tensions in South Asia escalated with significant conflict between India and Pakistan.

The U.S. Air Force modified the Foreign Military Sales agreement for the KC-46A Pegasus tanker, increasing the ceiling from $5.7 billion to $19.1 billion. This change allows for expanded sales to allies like Japan and Israel without needing new contracts for each order. The contract will remain active until April 28, 2035, supporting ongoing foreign military sales and logistics for the KC-46A.

Houthi forces advanced to Pylin Island, controlling nearby coastal areas on September 11, 2023. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman requested U.S. military action against the Houthis, which was denied, with the U.S. offering intelligence support instead. This escalation raises concerns about the security of maritime routes in the region and the potential for increased U.S.-Iran tensions.

The Iraqi Armed Forces confirmed that an attack on Saudi Arabia originated from Maysan Province. In response, Prime Minister Zaydi ordered the formation of an investigation committee and dismissed the commander of the operations command in Maysan. Additionally, Iraqi Foreign Minister Fuad Hussein spoke with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal to reaffirm their strong bilateral relations and discuss regional security.

In 1998, Chong Lot Travel Agency acquired the unfinished Varyag aircraft carrier from Ukraine for $20 million, intending to convert it into a floating casino in Macau. However, the vessel was ultimately towed to China and reconstructed, becoming the Liaoning, the first aircraft carrier of the People's Liberation Army Navy. This acquisition marked a significant step in China's naval capabilities, transitioning from a tourism project to a military asset.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman requested military assistance from U.S. President Donald Trump to combat the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen. The U.S. responded by offering intelligence sharing rather than direct military action. U.S. Central Command's Adm. Brad Cooper visited Saudi Arabia for discussions amid escalating Houthi threats in the Red Sea.