Analysis & Reports

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) introduced 23 new technologies, including advanced launch and recovery systems, during its operational testing from February 2024 to May 2026. The carrier's deployment covered 57,713 nautical miles, achieving 12,200 launches. Despite its advancements, the integration of these technologies led to significant delays and cost overruns during construction, impacting its operational readiness.

The US Navy deliberately sank the USS America in 2005 during a live-fire test approximately 250 miles off the US East Coast. The exercise lasted nearly four weeks, during which the carrier absorbed multiple attacks from bombs, missiles, and underwater blasts. The test aimed to gather data on the ship's survivability and damage control capabilities, revealing that the carrier was remarkably resilient despite extensive damage.

Ukrainian President Zelensky requested 300 Patriot interceptors from U.S. President Trump during a meeting in Washington on July 28, 2023, to bolster Ukraine's air defense against Russian attacks. Zelensky emphasized the urgency due to the depletion of Ukraine's interceptor stock, which could jeopardize energy infrastructure this winter. Trump agreed to facilitate production licensing but noted challenges in providing immediate assistance due to U.S. military commitments elsewhere.

The Pentagon is evaluating options to license the production of Patriot interceptors to Ukraine, with discussions ongoing among U.S. defense officials and industry stakeholders. President Trump announced this initiative during the NATO summit in Ankara, emphasizing the importance of Ukraine's ability to produce its own missiles. The process involves assessing domestic and international sourcing and addressing challenges related to the supply chain certification.

Japan is converting the JS Izumo and JS Kaga helicopter destroyers into light aircraft carriers to support F-35B operations, with modifications expected to complete by March 2029. The ships will enhance Japan's air capabilities in the East China Sea, allowing for flexible operations without relying solely on land bases. The U.S. Marine Corps has already conducted operations from these vessels, demonstrating their strategic importance in regional security.

In July 2026, the Russian Armed Forces deployed 24 Pantsir air defense systems around Moscow in response to increased drone threats from Ukraine. This deployment includes additional Pantsir-SMD systems and S-400 systems, indicating a strategic shift in protecting critical infrastructure. Ukrainian drone strikes targeted various locations, including Rostov and Sarapul, prompting this military adaptation.

Dmitri VolkovWed Jul 29 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army awarded contracts to Ford, GM Defense, and BC Customs on June 30, 2023, to develop prototypes of the Infantry Squad Vehicle-Heavy (ISV-H). Each manufacturer will deliver three models by March 30, 2027, with the Army planning to purchase an initial 34 vehicles at approximately $463,000 each. The ISV-H is designed to meet high power generation needs for military applications, including support for counter-drone systems and electronic warfare.

DARPA is funding seven teams in Washington to develop miniature nuclear power cells aimed at replacing traditional batteries. These radiovoltaic power sources are designed to last up to 30 years and operate in extreme conditions. The teams are experimenting with different radiation sources and semiconductor materials to enhance power output and durability. Prototypes are expected to be ready for military testing within 15 months.

DARPA is funding seven teams in Washington to develop miniature nuclear power cells through its Rads to Watts program. The initiative aims to create radiovoltaic power sources that can last up to 30 years and operate in extreme conditions. These new power cells could potentially replace traditional batteries and diesel generators at military bases. Prototypes are expected to be finalized within 15 months, with the best designs moving on to endurance testing for military applications.

USS Gerald R. Ford is undergoing sewage system upgrades at Norfolk Naval Shipyard as of July 7, 2026, to address persistent failures affecting its toilet network. The upgrades aim to improve sanitation for the 4,000 sailors aboard and prevent one failure from impacting multiple toilets. The carrier has faced significant maintenance challenges since its commissioning in 2017, with daily trouble calls reported during deployments.

The U.S. Navy's delivery of three Ford-class aircraft carriers has been delayed, with the USS John F. Kennedy now scheduled for March 2027, the USS Enterprise for March 2031, and the USS Doris Miller for February 2034. These delays are attributed to construction and supply chain issues at Newport News Shipbuilding, impacting the Navy's operational capacity.

The U.S. Air Force concluded that restarting F-22 Raptor production is not economically viable, with costs exceeding $50 billion. The last F-22 was delivered in May 2012, and the focus has shifted to the F-35 and the upcoming F-47, which will not be operational until the 2030s. The existing F-22 fleet remains under modernization efforts, but the production line has been repurposed, complicating any potential restart.

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems delivered its 1,000th TYPHOON naval weapon station, a system widely used by 25 navies, including the U.S. and Israel. The TYPHOON allows remote operation to engage threats like drones and small boats, enhancing naval defense capabilities. This delivery reflects the system's proven adaptability and operational trust in increasingly contested maritime environments.

Chinese researchers at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Center claimed to have identified aerodynamic and stability weaknesses in the B-21 Raider using their PADJ-X design tool. The report, published on January 7, highlighted a 15% improvement in lift-to-drag ratio but noted that the B-21's exact specifications remain classified. The U.S. Air Force has not yet responded to these claims, and the B-21 is expected to be operational by 2027.

Australia transferred 49 retired M1A1 Abrams tanks to Ukraine in December 2025, despite U.S. concerns about their sustainability. The tanks were modified for combat and are intended to enhance Ukraine's armored capabilities. This transfer reflects ongoing military support for Ukraine amid the conflict with Russia.

The U.S. Marine Corps received its final MV-22B Osprey in Amarillo, Texas, on July 28, 2026, marking the end of a nearly two-decade production program. The Marine Corps will now focus on sustaining and modernizing the existing fleet, which has become central to its operations, handling 75% of rotary-wing assault support. The MV-22B has logged over 683,300 flight hours and is expected to remain in service until 2055.

The 13th Marine Expeditionary Unit has recently begun training with the Light Marine Air-Defense Integrated System (LMADIS) aboard the USS Makin Island off the California coast. This system is designed to counter the growing threat posed by unmanned aircraft, utilizing advanced sensors and electronic warfare capabilities. The training involves four Low Altitude Air Defense gunners operating two Ultra-Light Tactical Vehicles, enhancing the unit's rapid deployment and operational effectiveness against drone threats.

The Soviet Union commissioned four Kiev-class aircraft carriers from 1975 to 1987, designed for anti-submarine warfare and missile defense. Two of these carriers, Kiev and Minsk, have been converted into tourist attractions in China, with Kiev serving as a theme park and hotel in Tianjin, and Minsk in Shenzhen. The last operational carrier, Baku, was rebuilt for India and is now known as INS Vikramaditya.

Teledyne FLIR Defense secured a major order to supply its Argus XL counter-drone detection platform for the U.S. Air Force under a $500 million contract aimed at enhancing drone defense capabilities. This initiative, part of the Domestic Shield Program, is led by Joint Interagency Task Force 401 to protect U.S. military installations from drone threats. The Titan Multi-Sensor system, which includes the Argus XL, integrates multiple detection technologies to identify and track aerial threats effectively.

The U.S. Army expanded the Unmanned Advanced Lethality Course at Fort Rucker, Alabama, increasing live drone engagements from 5 to 12 per class. This change aims to enhance tactical training for drone operators, incorporating real-world scenarios and live explosives. The course, which began in August 2025, has attracted interest from various military branches, reflecting the growing importance of drone operations in modern warfare.