Analysis & Reports

Blighter signed a contract on March 9 to supply its B400 series ground surveillance radars and BlighterNexus AI software to an undisclosed Eastern European army for border protection. The systems will enhance surveillance capabilities by detecting and tracking targets along national borders, operating continuously in all weather conditions. This deployment aims to integrate radar data into the army's command-and-control infrastructure, improving situational awareness.

Blighter secured a contract to supply its B400 series border surveillance radars and BlighterNexus AI software to an undisclosed Eastern European Army on March 9, 2026. The radars will be deployed at fixed locations along the borders and on reconnaissance vehicles, providing 24/7 surveillance capabilities. This contract adds to Blighter's existing partnerships with military forces globally.

The U.S. Navy is evaluating the retirement of its Ohio-class SSGNs due to aging hulls and rising costs, transitioning to Virginia-class submarines with VPM upgrades. This shift aims to maintain strike capacity in the Indo-Pacific, where each Ohio-class submarine can launch up to 154 Tomahawk missiles. However, retiring the Ohio-class may create a short-term conventional missile gap as the Navy prioritizes funding for newer submarine programs.

The U.S. Air Force is evaluating its bomber capacity amid ongoing operations in Iran, highlighting the need for at least 200 B-21 Raiders to ensure effective power projection against potential threats in the Indo-Pacific. Current assets include 19 B-2 Spirits, 76 B-52Hs, and 45 B-1Bs, with operations consuming precision munitions and tanker resources. Analysts warn that the existing fleet may not suffice for simultaneous conflicts.

The U.S. Air Force is evaluating the transition to advanced aircraft, including the F-22 Super, F-35, F-47 NGAD, and B-21 Raider, to enhance its capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Current operations in Iran have demonstrated the effectiveness of existing aircraft, but future conflicts may necessitate these upgrades. The F-47 is projected to cost $300 million per unit, while the B-21 Raider aims for a production goal of at least 100 units.

The U.S. Navy and Air Force are integrating capabilities for long-range maritime strike operations, utilizing the AIM-174B Gunslinger missile and Quicksink munitions. The MQ-25 Stingray unmanned tanker will enhance the operational range of carrier air wings. This collaboration aims to bolster U.S. military firepower in the Indo-Pacific region, addressing the challenges posed by long-range adversary weaponry.

Iran has closed the Strait of Hormuz and threatened to attack any vessels attempting to pass through, while the U.S. has conducted airstrikes, claiming to have destroyed nine Iranian naval vessels. Approximately 150 oil tankers are currently waiting to transit the strait. The situation highlights the strategic importance of the strait, through which a significant portion of global oil transport occurs.

The U.S. Department of Defense implemented a new National Defense Strategy in January 2026, focusing on deterrence by denial in the Indo-Pacific, particularly along the First Island Chain. This strategy includes a significant increase in missile production and demands that allies raise their defense spending to 5% of GDP. Japan and Taiwan are responding by accelerating their own defense initiatives, while the omission of explicit references to Taiwan has raised concerns about U.S. commitments in the region.

Marcus ChenTue Mar 03 2026Loading...

On March 1, 2023, U.S. airstrikes destroyed and sank 9 Iranian naval vessels, as President Trump announced. In response, Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared a blockade of the Strait of Hormuz, leading to around 150 oil tankers being stranded. The situation has raised global oil prices and heightened tensions in the region.

U.S. Central Command deployed LUCAS drones in Operation Epic Fury, marking their combat debut against Iranian targets. In retaliation, Iran launched Shahed drone strikes on U.S. Fifth Fleet headquarters in Bahrain, causing minimal damage. The U.S. continues to develop low-cost drones while facing limitations in missile stockpiles and production capabilities.

China's H-20 stealth bomber is anticipated to challenge U.S. air dominance in the Indo-Pacific, particularly targeting transit hubs like Guam. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is developing the H-20 to enhance its regional military capabilities, with operational deployment expected in the next few years. This development signals a shift in military dynamics, as the U.S. assesses China's capabilities as primarily regional for now.

Debate continues over the SR-71 Blackbird's speed capabilities, with former pilots claiming it exceeded Mach 3.5 during missions. Developed by Lockheed Martin during the Cold War, the aircraft was designed for strategic reconnaissance, flying at altitudes above 80,000 feet. Its officially published cruising speed is Mach 3.2, but some suggest it could operate faster under certain conditions. The aircraft's design prioritized speed to evade enemy defenses.

The Russian Air Force operates approximately 15 Su-57 aircraft, which are under scrutiny for their stealth capabilities compared to the F-35 and F-22. Algeria has reportedly ordered 14 Su-57s, but delivery is uncertain due to Russian production delays. Experts highlight the Su-57's significantly larger radar cross-section, questioning its classification as a stealth fighter.

Lockheed Martin is upgrading the F-22 Raptor with stealthy external fuel tanks and infrared search-and-track pods to enhance its capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The Hawaii Air National Guard’s 199th Fighter Squadron conducted interoperability training with the B-2 Spirit bomber. These upgrades aim to improve the F-22's range and sensor fusion to compete with China's advanced stealth fighters. The U.S. Air Force is focusing on enhancing the F-22's performance in response to evolving threats.

The U.S. is conducting a significant military buildup in the Persian Gulf, deploying two carrier strike groups and numerous aircraft in preparation for potential military action against Iran. Concurrently, Iran is enhancing its military capabilities along its southern coast, particularly near the Strait of Hormuz, and has engaged in arms deals with Russia and China. Diplomatic negotiations continue, but the situation remains tense as both sides prepare for possible conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Feb 26 2026Loading...

The M60A3 Patton tank remains operational in 2026, having undergone significant modernization to enhance its combat capabilities. It serves in various military forces, including those of Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Taiwan. The tank's upgrades, such as the laser rangefinder and Tank Thermal Sight, have ensured its relevance on the battlefield.

The U.S. military has deployed two carrier strike groups and 108 air refueling tankers to the Persian Gulf and surrounding regions in February 2026, preparing for potential military operations against Iran. This includes various strike options targeting Iran's nuclear and missile infrastructure, with significant logistical support from aerial refueling capabilities. The deployment of E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft indicates expectations of contested airspace, while cyber assets are positioned to disrupt Iranian command and control.

Marcus ChenWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

The United States and its allies are exploring co-production of drones and unmanned systems in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's technological advancements and influence. This includes Taiwan's efforts to enhance its defensive capabilities. The situation is evolving as China continues to invest in drone technology and expand its economic power in the region.

The Space Development Agency (SDA) awarded a $30 million contract to AST SpaceMobile USA for a demonstration of commercial satellite communication with US military radios. This initiative utilizes the BlueBird constellation of satellites, with six currently in orbit and a seventh set for launch. The project is part of the HALO program, aimed at validating commercial solutions for tactical communication capabilities.

A Sukhoi Su-57 Felon stealth fighter was observed operating in Algerian Air Force service, indicating progress in Algeria's acquisition of the aircraft. Algeria has signed a contract for 12 Su-57 Felons, with deliveries scheduled from 2025 to 2028. The emergence of video footage supports claims of the aircraft's operational status, marking Algeria as the potential first foreign operator of this fifth-generation fighter.