Analysis & Reports

Naval forces are enhancing the training of Combat Information Centre (CIC) crews to improve operational readiness against modern threats in the Red Sea and beyond. This training focuses on both synthetic and live exercises to prepare crews for complex scenarios involving anti-ship missiles and UAVs. Various navies, including the Royal Australian Navy and the US Navy, are adopting advanced training systems to ensure effective command and control during operations.

The U.S. Navy is enhancing its capabilities in preparation for potential conflict with China, focusing on naval and aerial assets. The FY2027 defense budget includes 34 new ships, over 4,200 missiles, and 123 aircraft. The geographical challenges of the Western Pacific favor Chinese forces, necessitating improved logistics and readiness for U.S. operations. China’s military strategy includes advanced missile systems and cyber warfare, posing significant threats to U.S. naval power.

The U.S. Department of Defense proposed a $1.5 trillion budget for fiscal 2027, marking a significant increase in military spending. The U.S. Navy plans to expand its medium unmanned surface vessel fleet in the Indo-Pacific from 4 to over 30 by 2030. The budget allocates substantial funds for shipbuilding and autonomous systems, reflecting a strategic focus on enhancing military capabilities in response to evolving threats.

Marcus ChenThu Apr 23 2026Loading...

Pakistan suspended a $1.5 billion arms deal with Sudan on April 20, 2023, following Saudi Arabia's request to terminate the agreement and its decision not to provide funding. The deal, which included weapons and fighter jets, was in its final stages before the suspension. This action reflects Saudi Arabia's strategic reassessment of its involvement in conflicts in Africa.

The U.S. Navy operates three aircraft carriers in the Middle East, including the USS Gerald R. Ford, enhancing maritime attack capabilities against Iran. Carrier-launched fighter jets have proven effective in counter-drone operations, while dual-carrier operations increase mission endurance and attack volume. Advanced defensive technologies are being integrated into U.S. Navy destroyers to counter potential threats.

Lockheed Martin upgraded the F-22 Raptor, enhancing its combat range by 850 nautical miles with new stealth-compatible fuel tanks. The U.S. Air Force continues to deploy the F-22 in operations across the Indo-Pacific, including recent missions in Estonia and against threats in Iran. The addition of infrared search-and-track sensors improves the aircraft's survivability and situational awareness, ensuring its role in maintaining air superiority.

The U.S. Navy plans to expand its fleet of medium-sized unmanned surface vessels from four to thirty by 2030 in the Indo-Pacific. This expansion includes the deployment of the Sea Hunter and Sea Hawk vessels, as well as the establishment of three USV divisions. The Navy aims to enhance its capabilities with thousands of small unmanned surface vessels and various unmanned aircraft systems in the region.

The U.S. Navy plans to expand its fleet of medium-sized unmanned surface vessels from four to 30 by 2030 in the Indo-Pacific. This expansion includes the deployment of the Sea Hunter and Sea Hawk vessels, as well as the establishment of three USV divisions. The Navy aims to enhance its capabilities with thousands of small unmanned surface vessels and various unmanned aircraft systems operating in the region.

The U.S. Navy plans to expand its fleet of medium-sized unmanned surface vessels from four to thirty by 2030 in the Indo-Pacific. This expansion includes the deployment of the Sea Hunter and Sea Hawk vessels this year, as part of a broader strategy for unmanned maritime systems. The Navy is also establishing three USV divisions to support this initiative.

The U.S. Navy plans to expand its fleet of medium-sized unmanned surface vessels from four to 30 by 2030 in the Indo-Pacific. This expansion includes the deployment of the Sea Hunter and Sea Hawk vessels, as well as the establishment of three USV divisions. The Navy aims to enhance its capabilities with thousands of small unmanned surface vessels and various unmanned aircraft systems in the region.

A fire occurred at the Komsomolsk-on-Amur Aircraft Plant in Russia's Far East, affecting the production of Su-57 Felon stealth fighters. As of late 2025, Russia has produced 21 Su-57s, with concerns about future output due to the fire. Algeria's interest in acquiring 14 Su-57s may impact the global fleet, but doubts remain about the aircraft's true capabilities.

Iran's submarine fleet has been nearly eradicated due to ongoing military operations, with 11 of 25 submarines confirmed destroyed and 10 mini-subs unaccounted for. The U.S. Navy is actively monitoring the situation in the Strait of Hormuz and surrounding waters. Concerns remain about the potential threat posed by the remaining mini-subs to military and commercial vessels.

The Eurofighter Typhoon has been actively involved in military operations since 2011, participating in combat in Libya and ongoing missions in Iraq and Syria. It has demonstrated its capabilities in training exercises against F-22 Raptors, showcasing its relevance in modern air combat. The aircraft is set to receive upgrades to maintain its operational effectiveness into the 2040s.

The USS John F. Kennedy is nearing completion for active duty, with delivery now scheduled for March 2027 due to delays caused by technical issues. The U.S. Navy is working to expedite the carrier's readiness, as it is crucial for maintaining operational capabilities in various geopolitical regions. The carrier has recently completed sea builder trials and is set for acceptance trials soon.

The U.S. Navy will retire all four Ohio-class guided-missile submarines between 2026 and 2028, eliminating 616 Tomahawk cruise missile launch cells. These submarines have been crucial in operations across the Middle East, Europe, and the Indo-Pacific. The Virginia-class Block V submarines, which can carry only 40 Tomahawks, cannot replace the lost capacity, leading to significant operational challenges for the Navy.

The U.S. Department of Defense announced a $1.5 trillion defense budget for FY27, emphasizing a $70.5 billion increase in munitions procurement due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. This budget reflects a strategic dilemma as the U.S. seeks to maintain military readiness in the Indo-Pacific while addressing depleted munitions stockpiles. Lockheed Martin has secured a $4.7 billion contract for missile production, highlighting the urgency of replenishing military resources.

Marcus ChenWed Apr 15 2026Loading...

The Unified Force of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) increased its troop strength to 6,000 soldiers by February 2026 to combat jihadist threats. In the same month, the JNIM executed coordinated attacks across Burkina Faso. The AES deployed 1,500 elite soldiers and air defense units near the Niger-Nigeria border, raising regional tensions. Concurrently, the U.S. sent 200 soldiers to Nigeria for intelligence and training missions, highlighting the complex geopolitical dynamics in the Sahel region.

Marie DuboisWed Apr 15 2026Loading...

USS George H.W. Bush is currently sailing around Africa to reach the Persian Gulf, avoiding the dangerous Red Sea. This deployment highlights the U.S. Navy's strategic adjustments in response to threats in the region, particularly regarding counter-drone and missile defense operations. The carrier's capabilities, including the transport of F-35C stealth fighters, enhance the U.S. military's operational readiness and deterrence posture.

Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi's election victory in February 2026 enables a significant shift in defense policy, with plans to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP and liberalize export controls. This marks a transition towards operational integration with the EU, enhancing cooperation in defense capabilities and industrial partnerships. Japan identifies China as a strategic challenge and aims to strengthen its military posture in the Indo-Pacific.

Rolls-Royce is enhancing U.S. Army aviation capabilities by developing the MV-75 Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program, powered by AE 1107 engines that offer double the speed and range of existing aircraft. The company has invested significantly in advanced manufacturing and technology to ensure mission readiness and operational effectiveness in complex theaters like the Indo-Pacific. The AE engine family has a proven track record with over 90 million flight hours, demonstrating reliability and performance in military operations.