Analysis & Reports

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) completed flight tests for the MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft, certifying it for Flight Into Known Icing (FIKI) conditions at their Flight Test & Training Center in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The tests, funded by GA-ASI, were successfully concluded in early April 2026, with the Government of Canada ordering 11 MQ-9B SkyGuardians for military use.

Lockheed Martin launched GPS III Space Vehicle 10 (SV10) from Cape Canaveral at 2:53 a.m. on April 21, 2026. This satellite enhances the GPS constellation with optical communication capabilities and paves the way for the next-generation GPS IIIF satellites, which will improve anti-jamming performance for military users. The launch marks a significant milestone in strengthening the GPS infrastructure for both military and civilian applications.

The U.S. Air Force issued a Sources Sought notice on April 20, 2026, for the procurement of the Black Widow drone, designed to provide live targeting data to F-35 fighters. This tactical drone is required to meet specific compliance standards and integrate seamlessly with existing military systems. TEAL Drones, the manufacturer, aims to offer a domestic alternative to foreign drone systems.

Boeing has been awarded a $11.95 million contract to install an Increment 3 retrofit kit on U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The work, primarily based in Jacksonville, Florida, is expected to enhance the aircraft's anti-submarine warfare capabilities and is scheduled for completion by October 2026. This upgrade is part of the Navy's ongoing modernization efforts to address evolving undersea threats.

Raytheon was awarded a $213.4 million contract to upgrade combat systems on U.S. Navy Zumwalt-class destroyers, with work expected to be completed by April 2027. The contract covers installation, integration, and modernization of mission systems and is part of a broader investment in the Zumwalt program. The destroyers are being adapted for long-range precision strike capabilities, reflecting a shift in their operational role.

Aeon successfully conducted another test of its Zeus advanced tactical weapon system in Austin. The missile is designed for affordability and adaptability, integrating with existing military platforms. Aeon has established partnerships for launching Zeus from various systems, indicating a strategic focus on scalable precision munitions. The company aims to advance Zeus toward operational readiness with ongoing testing and integration efforts.

The U.S. Navy highlighted a new timeline for the F/A-XX program and growing interest in medium unmanned surface vessels during the first day of the Sea Air Space conference in National Harbor, Maryland.

The U.S. Navy showcased the F-35C fighter at the Lakeland Airshow on March 19, 2026, highlighting its advanced capabilities. The aircraft features a fly-by-wire system, allowing for automated stability and control, and is designed for stealth operations with internal weapon storage. Pilots manage missions using a data-centric cockpit, emphasizing the transition from traditional piloting to systems management.

The U.S. Space Force cancelled the Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) contract on April 17th due to insurmountable challenges in delivering required capabilities. Over $6.27 billion was spent on the project, which was intended to modernize GPS satellite control. The Space Force will instead enhance the existing GPS control system and has awarded Lockheed Martin a $105 million contract for related work.

Anduril and HD Hyundai are expanding their partnership to produce autonomous surface vessels, with the first vessel entering production and set to be in the water by October 2023. Testing will take place off the U.S. coast by the end of 2026. Edison Chouest Offshore is collaborating with them for production at U.S. shipyards.

Anduril and HD Hyundai are producing autonomous surface vessels, with the first vessel expected to be in the water and tested by the end of this year. Daily at-sea testing is ongoing to collect operational data. Anduril will take ownership of the vessel for testing off the U.S. coast by the end of 2026, in collaboration with Edison Chouest Offshore.

The Sea Air Space conference in National Harbor, Maryland, showcased various military technologies, including a robot dog by Path Robotics and a wingless Spectre USV by Saildrone. The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command announced L3Harris as the developer for the Marine Corps' Red Wolf munitions. Additionally, General Dynamics displayed Columbia and Virginia Class submarines, highlighting advancements in military equipment and defense capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force announced it will extend the service of the A-10 Thunderbolt II until around 2030, preserving its role in close air support during the transition to newer aircraft. This decision, confirmed by the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, reflects political backing and aims to maintain combat power. The A-10, known for its effectiveness in supporting ground forces, will remain a key asset in the Air Force's inventory.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog's service through 2030, maintaining 54 aircraft until 2029 and reducing to 36 by 2030. This decision supports ongoing military operations in Iran, including close air support in the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement follows a recent incident where an A-10 was involved in a search and rescue mission for downed F-15E airmen.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog's service through 2030, reversing a previous retirement timeline. This decision includes retaining 54 A-10s until 2029, with a reduction to 36 by 2030. The aircraft have been actively involved in operations in Iran, including close air support in the Strait of Hormuz and a recent search and rescue mission.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading the B-52H Stratofortress to the B-52J to modernize its fleet and ensure viability until the 2050s. Key upgrades include new engines and enhanced weapons capacity for advanced missiles. The B-52J will support ongoing military operations while maintaining the bomber's role in the nuclear triad. The aircraft's operational challenges and unique flying characteristics are highlighted by pilots' experiences.

The F-22 Raptor, operated by the U.S. Air Force, showcased its advanced capabilities at the Lakeland Airshow on April 19, 2026. Pilots described flying the F-22 as akin to 'wearing the jet,' emphasizing its superior sensor fusion and maneuverability. Despite past issues with hypoxia among pilots, the F-22 remains a critical asset in air superiority, equipped with advanced weaponry and stealth features.

The U.S. Air Force showcased the A-10 Warthog at the Sun ’n Fun Airshow in Lakeland, Florida, on April 19, 2026. The aircraft is designed for close air support, featuring a GAU-8 Avenger gun and known for its durability and damage tolerance. Pilots describe it as a stable but heavy platform, optimized for low-altitude operations rather than speed or agility.

The U.S. Navy-Marine Corps Team is utilizing the MQ-9B SeaGuardian for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting operations. This unmanned aircraft system provides unmatched endurance and advanced capabilities, including anti-submarine warfare and integration with long-range weapons. Its all-weather performance and modular payload architecture enhance operational flexibility and effectiveness in modern conflict.

Boeing successfully demonstrated the autonomous landing of a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook using its A2X software. This event is part of the Army's initiative to enhance autonomy in its aircraft fleet, which includes the recent introduction of a pilot-optional Black Hawk. The Chinook's autonomous capabilities are designed to reduce pilot workload and improve operational efficiency.