Analysis & Reports

Houthi forces launched two military operations on September 19, targeting sensitive sites in Riyadh and Aramco facilities in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. The operations involved the use of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, and were described as a response to ongoing Saudi airstrikes. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree stated that these actions were successful.

The Royal Malaysian Navy launched the third LMS Batch 2 corvette, TUNKU OSMAN JEWA, at Istanbul Shipyard on 9 August 2026. This event completes the launch phase of all three corvettes in the program, which will be equipped with HAVELSAN’s ADVENT Combat Management System. The program will now proceed to system integration and testing, involving outfitting and acceptance trials for the new vessels.

ASELSAN successfully demonstrated the coordinated operation of airborne electronic warfare and ISR systems using Bayraktar TB2 UAVs in Konya, attended by over 15 international defense delegations. The demonstration highlighted the integration of electronic support, electronic attack, and synthetic aperture radar capabilities, showcasing effective target detection and engagement.

In 1999, the Royal Netherlands Navy's Walrus-class submarines conducted simulated torpedo attacks during a drill in the Arabian Gulf, successfully 'sinking' the USS Theodore Roosevelt and seven escort vessels. The submarines, known for their stealth capabilities, utilized battery power to evade detection while executing the exercise.

ASELSAN demonstrated three airborne systems on Bayraktar TB2 drones in Konya, showcasing their ability to detect, jam, and photograph enemy radar. The demonstration involved the ANTIDOT 2ES 100, ANTIDOT 2EA 200, and FULMAR 200 pods, highlighting their capabilities for electronic warfare and reconnaissance. This event was attended by over 15 international defense delegations.

Saudi Arabia is moving towards acquiring 48 F-35 aircraft as part of a military package valued at $24.3 billion, with the U.S. notifying Congress of the potential sale on September 17, 2026. This deal aims to enhance Saudi military capabilities amid rising regional tensions, particularly from Houthi attacks. However, it raises concerns about Israel's military edge and the risk of technology transfer to China.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

Germany plans to enhance its long-range precision strike capabilities by acquiring Tomahawk cruise missiles and associated Triton launch systems from the United States. The German Defense Ministry has allocated nearly 3.4 billion euros for this procurement, with initial operational capability expected by 2030. This move aims to fill significant capability gaps and enable the German Armed Forces to independently deter threats, particularly from Russia. The agreement was solidified during a meeting in Ankara.

The U.S. State Department approved a potential sale of 48 F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters to Saudi Arabia on September 17, 2023. In response, Israel is seeking compensation to maintain its military advantage, including access to advanced weapons and possibly the F-47 NGAD fighter. The sale is significant as it marks a shift in U.S. policy in the Middle East, with Israel emphasizing its need to preserve its qualitative military edge.

The U.S. Department of State approved a potential sale of 48 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets and 49 Pratt & Whitney engines to Saudi Arabia, valued at $24.3 billion. This decision represents a significant shift in U.S. defense policy and aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's military capabilities amid regional tensions, particularly with Iran. The sale is pending congressional approval and reflects ongoing defense cooperation between the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.

The U.S. announced a $24 billion sale of 30 F-35 Joint Strike Fighters to Saudi Arabia on September 17, 2026, amid rising tensions with Houthi forces in Yemen. Critics argue that the sale may violate U.S. commitments to Israel and question its effectiveness in addressing the Houthi threat. The deal is reminiscent of a past AWACS sale, raising concerns about regional security dynamics and Saudi Arabia's trustworthiness as a partner.

The UAE and Hanwha Systems signed a memorandum of understanding on September 17, 2026, to develop an integrated air defense network. This partnership focuses on local manufacturing and enhancing air defense capabilities, including systems like L-SAM and M-SAM. The initiative aims to improve the UAE's defense management and operational readiness against mixed threats, while also diversifying its defense procurement sources.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Sep 18 2026Loading...

Houthi forces launched an attack on King Fahd Air Base in Ta’if, Saudi Arabia, damaging an Italian Eurofighter Typhoon. The aircraft was parked in a remote area of the base during the overnight strike, but no injuries were reported among Italian personnel. This incident is part of ongoing hostilities in the region, with the base hosting approximately 300 Italian military personnel as part of Task Force Air-Arabia.

Otokar and Leonardo successfully completed integration and live firing tests of the TULPAR Medium Tank platform with the HITFACT MkII turret in Turkey. This milestone demonstrates the advanced capabilities of the TULPAR, combining high mobility and firepower. The tests validated the performance and interoperability of the new weapon system, which is designed for various military roles.

EDGE Group and Hanwha strengthened their strategic cooperation on developing an integrated air defense system in Abu Dhabi on 16 September 2026. The Term Sheet signed outlines collaboration on the L-SAM, M-SAM, and Chunmoo MRLS systems, aiming to enhance the UAE's defense capabilities. Both companies will explore establishing a joint venture and local production to support the UAE's defense industrial base.

The U.S. State Department approved the sale of 48 F-35A fighter jets to Saudi Arabia on September 17, 2026, valued at $24.3 billion. This deal includes engines, secure communications, and maintenance support, marking Saudi Arabia as the second Middle Eastern country authorized to operate F-35s. The approval follows extensive discussions and concerns regarding regional military balance and technology security.

In March 2023, the Israeli Air Force destroyed several Iranian F-14 Tomcats at Isfahan in Central Iran. These aircraft, originally sold to Iran in 1976, were believed to be the last operational F-14s globally. The U.S. had previously dismantled its own F-14s to prevent parts from reaching Iran.

Saudi Arabian aircraft conducted 40 airstrikes in Yemen's Taiz, Marib, and Hajjah provinces within the last 24 hours. Houthi forces reported shooting down a Saudi reconnaissance drone and using surface-to-air missiles to intercept F-15 fighter jets. The Houthi military spokesperson stated that the group has intensified its offensive against government forces and has taken control of significant territory in western Yemen.

The UAE, Hanwha Systems, and EDGE announced a partnership to develop an integrated air defense system aimed at reducing reliance on foreign technology. This initiative follows recent Iranian attacks on US facilities in the Middle East and includes the development of L-SAM and M-SAM systems. The agreement highlights the UAE's intent to enhance its military capabilities while maintaining existing US defense systems.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Sep 17 2026Loading...

Saudi air defenses intercepted a Houthi drone near Mecca on September 15, 2026, highlighting concerns over the depletion of Patriot missile stocks amid ongoing threats. Houthi forces claimed attacks on military and oil facilities, prompting Saudi Arabia to seek defensive assistance from multiple countries. The incident underscores the challenges faced by Saudi Arabia in maintaining air defense capabilities against Houthi aggression.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Sep 17 2026Loading...

Houthi forces launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities in Yanbu and an airbase in Asir on the 16th. They claimed to have downed a Saudi F-15 fighter jet and an armed drone, while also intercepting Saudi F-15s in Taiz province. The Houthi group vowed to continue their operations until Saudi airstrikes and blockades are lifted.