Analysis & Reports

Lt. Gen. Douglas Schiess justified the U.S. Space Force's $71 billion budget request during a Senate confirmation hearing, citing threats from China and Russia. He emphasized the need for increased funding to enhance military readiness and modernization. Schiess outlined plans to improve combat readiness and expand space launch capabilities, with a goal of 100 national security launches over the next five years.

Former federal employees criticized the impact of layoffs at the State Department and USAID on U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa and negotiations with Iran. They argued that the loss of experienced personnel has weakened the U.S. capacity to respond effectively to international crises. Lawmakers expressed concern that these cuts have damaged the country's global standing and diplomatic efforts.

Canada announced an investment of 1.4 billion USD to build 190 new Armoured Combat Support Vehicles (ACSVs) in partnership with General Dynamics Land Systems – Canada. This initiative will increase the ACSV fleet from 360 to 550 and will support training rotations at Canadian Armed Forces bases. The partnership aims to strengthen Canada's defense capabilities and includes commitments to military aid for Ukraine.

NASA's OSIRIS-REx mission successfully returned 121.6 grams of asteroid material from Bennu to Utah on September 24, 2023. The mission faced challenges, including sample leakage during collection, leading to an early stowage of the sample. This mission marks a significant achievement in planetary science, providing insights into the early Solar System and the origins of life.

Lt. Gen. Doug Schiess is likely to be confirmed as the third Space Force chief following a nomination hearing in Washington, where senators expressed confidence in his leadership. Concerns were raised regarding the Space Force's collaboration with the National Reconnaissance Office, particularly about avoiding duplication of efforts. Schiess assured that he would manage these relationships effectively.

The United States Space Force is experiencing a 25% personnel shortfall, having filled only 13,500 of the 18,000 positions needed for fiscal year 2025. This shortfall affects critical roles in cyber, intelligence, and support, jeopardizing mission readiness. The Government Accountability Office found that the Space Force lacks a consistent process to determine its personnel needs and is reliant on the Air Force for support roles, which are also under-resourced.

Raytheon is currently updating its plans to enhance US naval radars as part of Project Storm. This initiative aims to improve the capabilities of naval radar systems in the United States.

Canada is expected to officially join the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) as an observer on July 21 in London during the Farnborough International Airshow. This move aims to strengthen European defense ties while Canada assesses its long-term fighter jet options. As an observer, Canada will gain access to sensitive information and may contribute flight-simulation training technology, reflecting its strategic interest in closer defense partnerships with European nations.

Saronic announced plans to construct a new shipyard in Brownsville, Texas, starting later this year. The facility will cover 800 acres initially, with potential expansion to 4,000 acres, and aims to employ 10,000 workers over the next decade. It will focus on building both defense and commercial ships, including manned and unmanned vessels, with operations expected to begin in 2028.

Canada is evaluating its military aircraft options, considering the purchase of 88 F-35s while also entering observer status in the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP) for a sixth-generation fighter. The JAS 39 Gripen is another contender, suitable for air policing and NATO integration. The GCAP fighter will not be operational until 2035, prompting Canada to reassess its immediate needs in light of U.S. relations and defense commitments.

The U.S. Army is integrating Link 16 tactical data link into its aviation platforms to enhance connectivity and operational effectiveness. This modernization effort includes the UH-60 Black Hawk and Apache helicopters, with over 37,000 Link 16 terminals already deployed across U.S. and allied forces. The initiative aims to ensure that all platforms operate collaboratively in the modern battlefield, improving situational awareness and decision-making capabilities.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $418.5 million contract to NorthStar Maritime Dismantlement Services for the dismantlement of the USS Enterprise in Mobile, Alabama, with completion expected by September 2030. This contract follows a previous award that was contested, resulting in a lower bid. The dismantlement will involve recycling materials and safely disposing of hazardous waste, serving as a model for future decommissioning of similar vessels.

CSG Group has officially begun construction of the Future Artillery Complex at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant. This facility will produce up to 36,000 loaded 155mm artillery projectiles per month and is part of a U.S. Army modernization effort. The project is expected to create approximately 70 new jobs and be operational by 2029.

The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $439 million contract to produce ATACMS missiles and launchers for Taiwan, with the total expected to reach nearly $900 million. This deal, part of a larger arms package, aims to enhance Taiwan's long-range strike capabilities significantly. The contract is scheduled for completion by February 2031, reflecting the complexities of missile production. Taiwan is financing this through Foreign Military Sales, underscoring its commitment to strengthening its defense posture against potential threats from China.

The U.S. Air Force has ordered an increase in the production of long-range missiles, raising the total to 16,450 units due to concerns over stockpile depletion. This includes the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) and the Long Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM), with production expected to begin in about 27 months. Lockheed Martin will exclusively manufacture these missiles, reflecting a significant push to rebuild missile inventories strained by recent military engagements.

Iran's military actions have led the U.S. to deplete its interceptor stockpiles, prompting concerns about a potential maritime quarantine by China against Taiwan. The U.S. Navy is facing challenges in maintaining readiness due to simultaneous conflicts and strategic commitments in the Gulf and Indo-Pacific regions. Taiwan's government is preparing for possible Chinese maritime actions, which could impact its energy and resource supplies.

CSG Group has officially launched the construction of the Future Artillery Complex at the Iowa Army Ammunition Plant. This facility will produce up to 36,000 loaded 155mm artillery projectiles per month and is part of a significant U.S. Army modernization effort. The project is expected to create approximately 70 new jobs and is scheduled to be operational by 2029.

ZeroUSV delivered the Oceanus17 uncrewed surface vessel at its headquarters in Plymouth following successful Factory Acceptance Tests. The Oceanus17, measuring 17 meters, is designed for long-range operations and features advanced autonomy capabilities. It will undergo final commissioning before its official naming ceremony next month.

A U.S. Navy jet from the Blue Angels performed a low-altitude flight over a crowd in Florida on July 15, raising safety concerns. The incident, part of a flight demonstration, has prompted an investigation by military officials. Videos of the event circulated on social media, leading to public criticism regarding the safety of the maneuver.

Jay Clayton, President Trump's nominee for director of national intelligence, faced intense questioning from the U.S. Senate Intelligence Committee regarding his views on the 2020 election and election security. He emphasized that the ODNI should focus on foreign threats, while senators expressed concerns about the politicization of intelligence. Clayton's office also issued subpoenas to journalists, raising issues of press freedom and security.