Analysis & Reports

Northrop Grumman redesigned the B-2 Bomber in the 1980s for a low-altitude mission that was ultimately canceled, leading to unnecessary costs and complexity. The new B-21 Raider, currently in flight testing, omits the B-2's sawtooth design, indicating a return to a simpler, high-altitude focus. This design choice reflects lessons learned from the B-2 program, aiming to avoid costly mid-development changes and maintain operational efficiency.

In 1997, the U.S. purchased 21 MiG-29 fighter jets from Moldova for $40 million to prevent their acquisition by Iran. The jets were dismantled and sent to Ohio for intelligence purposes. Moldova's defense minister, Valeriu Pasat, was later imprisoned for selling the jets too cheaply. Six MiG-29s remained unsold in Moldova, highlighting the complexities of the deal.

The U.S. Navy faces a critical shortage of skilled workers, needing to hire 250,000 personnel over the next decade to fulfill submarine production requirements. This workforce crisis is attributed to a decline in skilled trades training and an aging workforce, with many experienced shipbuilders approaching retirement. As the Navy aims to expand its fleet, the lack of human capital poses significant challenges to maintaining military readiness and operational capabilities.

The U.S. Navy laid down the USS Kentucky in March 1942 but never completed her. In 1956, her bow was cut off to repair the USS Wisconsin after a collision. Kentucky's engines were later repurposed for other naval vessels, and she was sold for scrapping in 1958 after years of inactivity.

On December 17, 1958, the U.S. Navy selected the F-4 Phantom II as its next fleet-defense fighter, rejecting the Vought Crusader III. This decision resulted in the cancellation of Vought's major programs, leading to nearly 4,000 job losses. The Crusader III, which had superior speed and performance, was later used by NASA for sonic boom research, but no airframes remain today.

The U.S. Armed Forces conducted a nine-hour airshow in Washington, D.C. on July 4th, 2023, featuring hundreds of planes from various military branches. The event included historic F-5s, modern fighter jets, and military parachute teams. The airshow was scheduled to have multiple waves of aircraft, with the final event planned for 10:36 p.m. alongside a fireworks display.

Canada's Armed Forces adopted the CMAR service rifle, which includes a suppressor, as standard equipment for infantry soldiers. This shift reflects a broader trend of equipping regular troops with suppressors, enhancing noise reduction and combat effectiveness. The report highlights the technological advancements in suppressors and their importance in military training and operations.

BAE Systems released live-fire footage of its Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon System (MDACS) on July 2, 2026, showcasing its capabilities in modern warfare. The U.S. Army has allocated approximately $646 million for the development of MDACS, which aims to solve the cost-exchange problem in air defense. The system includes advanced features such as the Hypervelocity Projectile, capable of reaching targets over 100 nautical miles away, and is designed for rapid deployment via C-130 aircraft.

NASA repainted two F/A-18 and F-15 research aircraft in patriotic colors as part of the Freedom250 initiative, announced in 2025. The aircraft, based at Edwards Air Force Base in the Mojave Desert, are used for research and pilot training, not combat. This initiative commemorates the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence in 2026.

NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte announced that European and Canadian military procurement is expected to generate $300 billion in weapons orders, supporting 195,000 defense jobs in the United States. This increase in defense spending is driven by the Russia-Ukraine conflict and concerns over U.S. military commitments. Rutte urged defense manufacturers to expand production capacity to meet the growing demand without raising prices.

Pratt & Whitney announced that its F119 engine has surpassed one million flight hours, a milestone unmatched by rival manufacturers. This engine powers the F-22 Raptor, providing exceptional thrust and efficiency, and enabling supercruise capabilities. The F119's advanced design and manufacturing techniques contribute to its reliability and performance, solidifying its role in U.S. air dominance.

France is constructing the France Libre aircraft carrier, set to enter service in 2038, with a budget of €10 billion. The project involves Naval Group, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, and TechnicAtome, and relies on American-made electromagnetic catapults. The construction will mobilize around 800 suppliers and create up to 14,000 jobs, with a focus on maintaining France's naval capabilities.

The U.S. Navy exceeded its recruiting goal by signing up 45,000 new recruits in the 2023 fiscal year, marking the highest number in nearly two decades. This achievement was announced three months ahead of schedule, reflecting a successful modernization of recruiting strategies. Rear Adm. Jim Waters emphasized the importance of these recruits in maintaining fleet readiness in a complex security environment.

On December 22, 2023, the U.S. Navy announced plans to construct 15 new Trump-class battleships, with the first ship, USS Defiant, projected to cost between $17.6 to $18.9 billion. These battleships will be equipped with hypersonic missiles and vertical launch systems, marking a significant shift from traditional battleship designs. The initiative has faced criticism regarding its practicality and budget implications.

The UK government proceeded with the construction of two Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers from 2010 to 2026, finding it more cost-effective than cancellation. The program, which ultimately cost over £6 billion, involved multiple shipyards and significant logistical coordination. The carriers are designed to operate the F-35B Lightning II and have faced operational challenges since their deployment.

On February 20, 1959, Canada canceled the Avro Arrow aircraft program, resulting in the immediate layoff of over 14,000 workers at the Avro Canada plant in Malton, Ontario. The decision was made by Prime Minister John Diefenbaker after a review of military threats and costs. The cancellation led to significant job losses and the destruction of the aircraft, which was seen as a major advancement in military aviation technology.

BAE Systems delivered 19 Cold Weather All-Terrain Vehicles to the US military, increasing the total delivered to 58. This recent delivery enhances the military's operational capabilities in cold weather conditions.

DARPA is developing lightweight batteries powered by nuclear waste for drones and satellites, with a prototype expected by early 2027. A $3.37 million contract has been awarded to Project Omega, which will create a nuclear power generator using Strontium-90. The batteries aim to provide reliable power in extreme conditions, addressing critical needs in military operations.

Critics, including military veterans and lawmakers, have expressed concerns about the abstract design of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial in Washington, D.C., which lacks a clear tribute to the fallen. The memorial's location next to the Vietnam Veterans Memorial raises expectations and invites comparison. The design aims to encourage conversation about the ongoing legacy of the war, which remains contested and evolving.

DARPA is developing lightweight batteries powered by nuclear waste for drones and satellites, with a prototype expected by early 2027. The project, involving multiple organizations, aims to create a device that produces over 10 watts per kilogram. These batteries could significantly enhance military operations by providing reliable power sources in extreme conditions.