Analysis & Reports

Canada signed agreements with Australia to acquire the Arctic Over-The-Horizon Radar (A-OTHR) to enhance NORAD's airspace surveillance capabilities. The deal, valued at US$1.75 billion, aims to fill significant gaps in radar coverage, allowing detection of airborne and surface targets. The A-OTHR is expected to achieve initial operational capability by December 2029, improving monitoring of potential threats, including from Russia.

The Marine Corps is evaluating Ditto's technology to maintain local networks for AI tools during cloud outages. This initiative, part of Project Dynamis, aims to ensure communication in combat situations where cloud access is compromised. The focus is on creating a peer-to-peer data mesh using existing consumer devices like radios and cell phones, addressing vulnerabilities highlighted by recent conflicts.

Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington installed new counter-drone systems from Anduril Industries in 2025. The systems, including Anvil, Pulsar, and SpyGlass, enhance the base's defense against small drones. This installation is part of a broader initiative by Joint Interagency Task Force 401 to improve drone defense capabilities across U.S. military installations, addressing the increasing threat posed by small drones.

Kongsberg reported a 31% revenue increase to NOK 10,389 million and a nearly 50% rise in operating profit to NOK 1,669 million in the second quarter of 2023. The company secured multiple contracts for its Joint Strike Missile and NASAMS air defense system, with Canada selecting the missile for its F-35A fleet. Kongsberg also expanded its focus on subsea infrastructure protection, reflecting growing interest in defense procurement.

Echodyne opened a new advanced radar manufacturing facility in Washington State on July 10, 2026, capable of producing over 30,000 radars annually. This $40 million investment aims to meet the growing demand for radar systems in defense applications, creating over 100 new jobs. The facility will support the production of MESA® radar technology, which is crucial for counter-UAS and other military operations.

China and Russia conducted the 'Maritime Joint 2026' naval exercise, involving multiple vessels and submarines. Following the exercise, some forces transitioned to joint patrols in the Pacific. The Japanese Self-Defense Forces are actively monitoring these developments, particularly regarding anti-submarine operations and the implications for regional security.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jul 13 2026Loading...

Senator Lindsey Graham passed away on Saturday night in Washington, D.C., due to a sudden illness, leaving his Senate seat vacant. His death has prompted discussions among political leaders regarding potential successors. Graham was a prominent figure in the Senate and a close ally of former President Trump, who expressed his condolences and highlighted Graham's dedication to public service.

In Spring 2026, the U.S. Navy faced multiple fire incidents aboard its warships, including the USS Gerald R. Ford, which resulted in nearly 200 sailors being treated for smoke inhalation. The fires occurred during maintenance periods, highlighting ongoing vulnerabilities in fire safety protocols. A Government Accountability Office report indicated over $4 billion in fire damage from 2008 to 2022, emphasizing the Navy's failure to institutionalize lessons learned from past incidents.

Space Force acquired the Meadowlands weapon system last month, designed to jam enemy satellites using electromagnetic radiation. This system, operated by Mission Delta 3 at Peterson Space Force Base, enables reversible jamming of satellite communications without causing permanent damage. The Meadowlands represents a significant advancement in orbital warfare capabilities, allowing for non-kinetic operations to disrupt adversary capabilities.

The Horten Ho 229, developed by Nazi Germany, was a revolutionary flying-wing jet aircraft that aimed to meet Luftwaffe requirements during World War II. Researchers at the Smithsonian found no evidence of radar-absorbing materials in the aircraft, which suggests it was not a stealth plane. However, its design principles influenced modern stealth technology, and Northrop Grumman's tests indicated it reduced radar reflections compared to conventional aircraft.

The Boeing F-47 sixth-generation fighter aircraft is under development, showcasing a unique design with canards and a combat radius exceeding 1,000 nautical miles. Recent images from Area 51 reveal its capabilities, which include high-speed performance and integration with Collaborative Combat Aircraft. This development indicates a strategic shift in U.S. military aviation priorities, focusing on operational flexibility and advanced combat systems.

The U.S. requested Iran to publicly commit to keeping the Strait of Hormuz open while 10 F-22 aircraft departed from Israel to the United Kingdom on July 11, 2026. This request aims to deter Iranian attacks on vessels in the strategic waterway, which is vital for global oil supplies. The situation reflects ongoing military and diplomatic tensions in the region, particularly following recent Iranian actions against shipping.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

NASA conducted research flights with the SR-71 Blackbird from 1997 to 1998 to test a linear aerospike engine, which was intended for the X-33 spaceplane. The program was ultimately canceled due to technical issues. On October 29, 2024, a German aircraft successfully ignited a linear aerospike engine in flight, marking a significant advancement in rocket technology.

NASA conducted research flights with the SR-71 Blackbird from 1997 to 1998 to test a linear aerospike engine for the X-33 spaceplane. In October 2024, a German aircraft successfully ignited a linear aerospike engine in flight, marking a significant milestone in aerospace technology. The SR-71's final mission involved carrying a rocket engine that ultimately never ignited due to technical issues.

On July 9, 2023, the U.S. Department of Defense awarded $86 million to nLIGHT and Lockheed Martin to develop high-energy laser systems for cruise missile defense. The program aims to produce 300-500 kW laser systems, with operational demonstrations expected by 2028. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance air defense capabilities against threats from Iran, Russia, and China.

The U.S. Air Force developed and tested the Rusty Dagger cruise missile in record time, with 3,350 units approved for sale to Ukraine by August 2025. The missile, built by Zone 5 Technologies, was designed to meet urgent wartime needs and demonstrated unprecedented speed in its acquisition and integration into military operations. The program's rapid development allowed for combat readiness ahead of schedule, showcasing a significant shift in military procurement processes.

From June 20 to June 30, 2026, approximately 9700 personnel from the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Self-Defense Forces conducted a joint military exercise named Resolute Dragon 26 in the Southwest Islands and Kyushu. The exercise focused on enhancing defense capabilities and control of maritime terrain, involving live-fire training and logistical operations. This marks a significant step in U.S.-Japan military cooperation in the region.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted submarine-launched missile tests in the deep sea and held joint exercises at sea this week. Additionally, new artillery was fired for the first time in the desert, showcasing the military's capabilities and readiness.

Russian forces conducted intensive strikes on Ukrainian military and energy facilities on October 10, while also intercepting 144 Ukrainian drones over various regions, including the Black Sea. Concurrently, Ukrainian forces targeted multiple sites within Russia and Russian-controlled areas, including oil refineries and 18 ships. Russian troops continue to control 7 settlements and are engaged in demining operations.

Canada increased its defense spending to 2% of GDP in 2023, amounting to approximately $63 billion, but its military readiness remains low, with overall force readiness at 61.3%. The Canadian Armed Forces face significant recruitment challenges, having only recruited 15,000 personnel from 192,000 applications over three years. Despite financial commitments, logistical and personnel issues hinder operational effectiveness.