Analysis & Reports

The F-35 Lightning II operates in a 'beast mode' configuration, carrying up to 22,000 lbs of weapons, significantly compromising its stealth capabilities. This configuration is utilized for training and operational missions, including combat scenarios, as demonstrated by Israeli F-35Is in 2025. The aircraft's versatility allows it to perform various roles, including close air support, despite the trade-offs in stealth.

The U.S. Air Force is enhancing the F-22 Raptor's capabilities by integrating new stealth fuel tanks that extend its combat range to 850 nautical miles and sensor pods for improved targeting. These upgrades address previous deficiencies in the aircraft's range and targeting systems, particularly in light of competition from China's J-20. The F-22 remains a key asset for U.S. air dominance, especially in the Pacific region.

The Air and Space Forces Association’s Air, Space & Cyber Conference is set to begin in National Harbor, Maryland. The U.S. Air Force is actively seeking a new high-end drone platform following losses of MQ-9 Reapers in the Middle East. Concurrently, the U.S. Navy and Air Force are engaged in munitions usage amid the ongoing US-Israeli conflict with Iran.

The report emphasizes the constitutional role of Congress in declaring war, particularly in the context of the U.S. military actions following the 9/11 attacks. It critiques the accumulation of presidential power in military decisions and highlights the importance of congressional oversight in military engagements. The anniversary of 9/11 serves as a reminder of the need for a balanced approach to war powers.

Ukrainian drones struck Russian military aircraft near Anapa on September 9, 2026, destroying a Mi-8AMTSh helicopter and damaging a fixed-wing aircraft, possibly a Su-30 or Su-33. The operation also targeted Russia's naval base at Novorossiysk, resulting in additional losses. Conflicting reports exist regarding the aircraft type hit near Vityazevo, but both sides agree on the destruction of the helicopter.

Northrop Grumman developed the F-5 and F-20 aircraft, with the F-5E Tiger II serving over 30 air forces since its introduction in 1975. The F-20 Tigershark, developed in the 1980s, was intended for export but failed to sell any units despite significant investment. The F-5 series remains operational in various countries, showcasing its long-term success in military aviation.

Houthi fighters seized Perim Island on September 11, 2026, after Yemeni government forces withdrew. This takeover strengthens Houthi control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping route. The Houthis have also captured other locations, including the town of Dhubab and Zuqar Island, amid escalating tensions and Iranian support for their operations.

The Soviet Navy operated six Typhoon-class submarines from 1981 until the last was decommissioned in February 2023. These submarines displaced 48,000 tons, carried up to 200 nuclear warheads, and could remain submerged under Arctic ice for 120 days. Designed to serve as a nuclear deterrent, the Typhoon-class featured unique amenities for crew comfort, including a swimming pool and sauna.

The U.S. Navy awarded KestrelX a contract for low-observable target aircraft and engineering support for training exercises, with work distributed across Florida, Idaho, and North Carolina. This contract, valued at up to $9,987,285, extends KestrelX's threat-replication capabilities to the Navy, following previous work with the U.S. Air Force. The contract is set to last until 2028 and includes various military training operations.

On September 7, 2026, a Philippine Coast Guard aircraft conducting a surveillance mission over the Kalayaan Island Group encountered flares fired from Chinese-held Subi Reef and Mischief Reef. The unarmed aircraft was subjected to military signaling from Chinese forces, indicating a tactical maneuver to regulate Philippine surveillance activities in contested airspace. This incident highlights the ongoing tensions and gray-zone tactics employed by China in the West Philippine Sea.

Marcus ChenFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

Russian vessels from the Main Directorate for Deep Sea Research (GUGI) conducted a simulated deployment of a covert cable-disabling system near Svalbard in 2026. The exercise was tracked and confronted by British, Norwegian, and American forces, preventing its completion. This incident underscores NATO's vulnerabilities in the Arctic and raises concerns about Russia's potential to test NATO's response to ambiguous threats.

Alexandra ReevesFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

ST Engineering showcased the Terrex s5 Hybrid Electric Drive at MSPO 2026 in Kielce, Poland. The vehicle features a gross mass of 35,000 kg, a payload capacity of 13,000 kg, and advanced digital systems for enhanced situational awareness and unmanned system control. It is designed to accommodate 12 personnel and can be configured for various military missions, including direct-fire support.

Houthi forces captured the strategic port city of Mocha on September 10, 2023, potentially reshaping Red Sea shipping routes. The capture follows increased military operations by the Houthis against Yemeni government forces, including missile and drone attacks. Local residents reported evacuations as the conflict escalated in the region.

Houthi forces captured Zubab town and completed control over the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait on September 11, following the withdrawal of Yemeni government forces from Pihlin Island. This strategic control is significant for maritime navigation between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

The U.S. has deployed hundreds of military advisors to Saudi Arabia to provide intelligence and target acquisition support against Houthi forces in Yemen. This deployment comes amid escalating conflict, with the U.S. using advanced tools to assist Saudi military operations. However, U.S. involvement is limited, and there are concerns regarding the potential for increased conflict due to Iranian support for the Houthis.

Anti-junta fighters launched FPV drones at Myanmar’s Tada-U Air Base on September 10, 2026, targeting military jets. One drone reportedly struck a Yak-130 jet, while the military claimed all drones were intercepted. The incident led to the closure of Mandalay International Airport for two days, affecting flights. Conflicting reports exist regarding the extent of damage to the jets.

Baykar has equipped its Akıncı unmanned combat aircraft with Roketsan's new 300-ER air-launched ballistic missile, capable of striking targets over 500 km away. The missile, which features advanced guidance systems for precision targeting, is expected to undergo initial test firings soon. This development enhances the Akıncı's operational capabilities and extends its range significantly.

Houthi forces seized Mocha in January 2026, marking a significant setback for the Saudi-backed government in Yemen. This follows earlier territorial losses to the UAE-backed Southern Transitional Council, which briefly controlled half of southern Yemen. The ongoing conflict highlights the challenges faced by Saudi Arabia in maintaining its influence in the region amid internal and external pressures.

On September 7, 2026, a Philippine Coast Guard aircraft conducting maritime situational awareness near Subi Reef and Mischief Reef was reportedly illuminated by flares fired from Chinese-controlled artificial islands. This incident highlights the escalating tensions in the South China Sea, as the use of flares serves to assert control over the airspace and deter reconnaissance activities.

Li MinghuiFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

Russian GUGI conducted operations near Svalbard on September 10, 2026, preparing for potential attacks on underwater cables using secret weapon systems. NATO forces detected and pursued Russian ships during these operations, signaling the challenges of covert military actions. The Norwegian Defense Minister emphasized the implications for Arctic security and the need for enhanced monitoring of underwater infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovFri Sep 11 2026Loading...