Analysis & Reports

Rocket Lab Corporation secured a $266 million contract with the U.S. Space Force for missile defense testing through 12 confirmed suborbital launches, with an option for 6 more. The launches will occur from a new site in Kodiak, Alaska, with the first expected no earlier than the end of 2026. This contract aims to enhance the U.S. missile defense capabilities.

The U.S. Army, Navy, and Space Force tested the Hammer of the Gods electronic warfare system at sea for the first time during Project Convergence Capstone 6 in mid-July 2026 at Fort Irwin, California. This system is designed to disrupt adversary Positioning, Navigation, and Timing systems, enhancing operational capabilities in contested environments. The successful maritime test marks a significant milestone in joint military operations and reflects a strategic shift towards integrated technology development.

Lockheed Martin unveiled the MORFIUS X-Rotor, an airborne High Power Microwave counter-drone system capable of neutralizing over 50 enemy drones in a single flight. The system is designed for field recovery and reuse, ensuring low costs while maintaining effectiveness. Prototype production is being accelerated, with flight tests planned in Arizona, California, and Oklahoma, supporting the U.S. Department of War’s 2025-2028 Rapid Response Counter-UAS Roadmap.

On July 15, the U.S. Congress passed a bill allocating $500 million in Foreign Military Financing for Taiwan, signaling continued support for Taiwan's defense amid tensions with China. This funding is part of a broader context of U.S. military aid, despite President Trump's hesitation on a larger $14 billion weapons package. The bill reflects Congress's commitment to Taiwan's security in light of China's military threats.

The U.S. Army successfully tested a new missile-armed drone system at Fort Irwin, California, during Project Convergence-Capstone 6. The exercise involved reconnaissance drones identifying threats, followed by a weaponized drone executing strikes. This testing validated the first production-line Long-Range Precision Munition, showcasing the Army's advancements in networked drone capabilities for future combat operations.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $70 million contract to CoAspire for the development of a new cruise missile under the Coalition Heterogeneous Affordable Offensive Strike (CHAOS) program. This initiative aims to enhance the Navy's precision strike capabilities and diversify its defense industrial base by incorporating new entrants into the market. CoAspire plans to leverage 3D printing technology to produce affordable missiles more rapidly than traditional methods.

Ukrainian drones conducted deep-strike attacks on Russian targets, including an export terminal in Rostov Oblast and oil facilities in Udmurtia and Yaroslavl Oblast, on July 27, 2023. This campaign has forced Russia to defend its territory, including St. Petersburg, where the Navy Day parade was canceled for the second consecutive year. Ukraine's drone capabilities now allow strikes at distances exceeding 3,000 kilometers, impacting Russian logistics and naval operations.

Alexandra ReevesMon Jul 27 2026Loading...

The U.S. and Saudi Arabia signed a nuclear cooperation agreement on September 22, 2023, which permits Saudi Arabia to pursue uranium enrichment. This agreement has raised concerns about nuclear proliferation risks in the region, as it lacks the constraints found in previous U.S. nuclear agreements. President Trump indicated that Saudi Arabia must normalize relations with Israel for the agreement to advance.

Elbit Systems unveiled the Electro-Optical Distributed Aperture System (EO DAS) to enhance the mission capabilities of advanced fighter aircraft. The system provides 360° situational awareness and integrates with helmet-mounted displays for real-time threat visualization. It is designed to operate effectively in complex environments, including A2/AD scenarios, and supports various operational applications such as missile launch detection and terrain avoidance.

Turkey is actively attempting to sell its S-400 Triumf air defense systems to the United Arab Emirates to rejoin the U.S. F-35 program. The sale involves two batteries and 120 interceptor missiles, with ongoing discussions among Turkey, Russia, and the UAE. Israel has expressed severe concerns regarding the implications of this sale for regional security.

Rostec delivered a new batch of upgraded BMP-3 infantry fighting vehicles to the Russian Army in Russia. Production of these vehicles has tripled since the start of the invasion of Ukraine, reflecting increased wartime demand. The latest BMP-3s include enhanced protective measures and upgraded electronic warfare systems, addressing lessons learned from combat.

The United Arab Emirates and Israel established a joint arms fund on July 27, 2026, aimed at purchasing and developing new weapon systems, particularly for countering unmanned aerial systems and enhancing air defense. This partnership marks a shift from secretive security cooperation to a more formalized military production and procurement relationship, driven by the recent Iranian threats and the need for advanced defense capabilities.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Jul 27 2026Loading...

Airbus Defence and Space reported a record intake of €1.3 billion in 2025 during the Farnborough Airshow in London. The company is advancing its drone and aircraft capabilities, including the A400M's use in firefighting in France and the development of the A330 MRTT+. Airbus is also acquiring Ultra Cyber to enhance its cybersecurity offerings and is working on new drone technologies like the Bird of Prey and UCCA solutions.

Embraer delivered the first C-390 Millennium tactical transport aircraft to the Czech Air Force on 16 July 2023 at Prague Kbely Air Base. This delivery marks the beginning of the aircraft's operational service, enhancing the Czech Republic's airlift capabilities for NATO operations and domestic emergencies. The C-390 can carry heavy cargo and perform multiple missions, solidifying its role within the Czech Armed Forces.

Leonardo and PT ESystem Solutions Indonesia signed a contract to supply 12 M-346 F Block 20 multirole light fighter aircraft to the Indonesian Ministry of Defence, with deliveries starting in 2030. The agreement includes support and training services, contributing to Indonesia's air force modernization efforts. This makes Indonesia the first Asian customer for this aircraft model, which will enhance its combat capabilities.

ST Engineering has deployed its counter-drone capabilities across Asia, responding to increasing demand for effective solutions against drone threats. These deployments include applications for defense and critical infrastructure protection, utilizing advanced sensors and AI technology to detect and neutralize drones. The company emphasizes the operational maturity and versatility of its systems in addressing diverse mission requirements.

A new type of attack submarine has been identified under construction at Jiangnan Shipyard in Shanghai as of July 24, 2026. The submarine measures approximately 120 meters in length and features a smaller sail, which may enhance its stealth capabilities. This development suggests an expansion of the People's Liberation Army Navy's underwater platform capabilities, addressing previous deficiencies in underwater operations.

Li MinghuiMon Jul 27 2026Loading...

Poland proposed joint production of missiles for the Patriot air defense system with Ukraine and the U.S. during a visit to Washington on July 23. This initiative aims to address security concerns and ensure that missile production occurs in safe locations. The U.S. plans to issue a production license for Patriot missiles to Ukraine, with potential production sites in Germany or other European countries to mitigate risks from Russia.

Australia successfully tested a hybrid medium-range air defense system at Woomera Test Range in July 2023, integrating existing equipment with new capabilities. The system launched a Standard-2 missile, marking a significant advancement in air defense technology. This project involved collaboration with Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Navy, aiming to improve operational flexibility and cost-effectiveness for the Royal Australian Navy.

Greece approved a €3.5 billion procurement from Israel for a multi-layer air defense system on July 23, 2023. The system, named 'Achilles Shield', will enhance Greece's defense capabilities and includes various military equipment such as C-390 transport aircraft and drones. The Greek Armed Forces aim to modernize their military by investing approximately €28 billion by 2036.