Analysis & Reports

The Iranian military conducted large-scale drone strikes against U.S. military bases in Kuwait, targeting ammunition and logistics warehouses at Doha Camp and Ali Al Faris Base. This action was announced a few hours ago on the 23rd, with the Iranian military emphasizing their ongoing operations against U.S. forces in the region.

Iran has conducted missile strikes against U.S. forces in Jordan, utilizing improved ballistic missiles and drones. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has emphasized advancements in missile technology, particularly in evading defense systems. Reports indicate that Iran possesses around 2500 missiles, with ongoing improvements to their capabilities. This follows a series of retaliatory actions against U.S. military positions since mid-July 2023.

The Chinese Navy's 052D destroyer Kaifeng conducted a live-fire exercise 180 km southwest of Okinotorishima in 2026, within Japan's EEZ in the Philippine Sea. The exercise involved the use of a 30mm close-in weapon system, rather than missiles, to assert operational control in the area. This event occurred alongside a Russian naval vessel, highlighting joint operations between China and Russia. Japan has raised safety concerns regarding the exercise.

Tanaka TakashiThu Jul 23 2026Loading...

U.S. Central Command conducted missile strikes against Iranian military targets in multiple locations, including Sirik County, Ahvaz, and Bushehr County, on July 22, 2023, at 17:30 EDT. Explosions were reported in these areas, indicating the strikes' impact.

Houthi forces attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea on July 23, 2023, using ballistic missiles and drones, which resulted in the vessels catching fire. The attack was part of a declared maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, with Houthi officials warning of further military actions against Saudi targets.

Ukraine struck 13 Russian shadow fleet vessels in the Sea of Azov and Black Sea on July 21-22, as part of a renewed effort to target sanctioned vessels. The Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces reported a total of 126 vessels hit in the Azov Sea and 70 in the Black Sea. This operation is part of Ukraine's strategy to disrupt Russia's maritime operations and energy exports.

The UAE Air Force showcased two aircraft during the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom. A British Royal Air Force CH-47 Chinook demonstrated its cargo capabilities, while the F-22 Raptor was featured with its weapons bay open. The event highlights various aerial demonstrations, attracting significant attention from attendees.

BAE Systems unveiled the Brontanax loyal wingman drone at the Farnborough International Airshow on its third day. This new drone represents a significant development in military technology and is part of the ongoing coverage by Breaking Defense.

The U.S. Army is addressing supply chain bottlenecks affecting the production of the M1 Abrams tank engine, the AGT1500, through collaboration with industry. An event called the 'TIGER hackathon' was held on July 14, 2023, to identify solutions and second sources for critical components. The Army has identified 166 components impacting readiness and aims to have vendors contracted by October 1, 2023.

The U.S. Navy is advancing plans to construct a new Multi-Mission Dry Dock at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington, to service aircraft carriers. This initiative, part of a $30 billion contract, aims to enhance the Navy's capacity for depot-level maintenance on Ford-class carriers in the Pacific Northwest. The project includes multiple task orders for dredging, demolition, and infrastructure improvements.

Boeing is planning to establish multiple production facilities for the MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone in various countries to meet local demands. This initiative is driven by the need for sovereign military capabilities, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Germany is expected to be the first European operator of the drone by 2029, with Hensoldt joining the supplier base to support this effort.

The Houthi militia announced a maritime embargo against Saudi oil in the Red Sea, threatening to attack ships that challenge their blockade. Four tankers altered their routes, and EUNAVFOR ASPIDES advised vessels linked to U.S., Israel, or Saudi interests to avoid the area. The Houthis have deployed missiles and drones near Bab el-Mandeb to enforce the embargo, leading to a significant decline in maritime traffic through the strait.

Ukrainian company Skyfall unveiled the P1-SUN Jetkiller drone interceptor at the Farnborough Airshow, designed to target Russian Shahed drones. The interceptor can reach speeds of 370 km/h and is set for mass production in August, with a target of 50,000 units per month. The Ukrainian Air Force recently reported destroying 46 out of 58 Russian drones in an attack, highlighting the need for such advanced systems.

Lockheed Martin has partnered with Venus Aerospace to develop Rotating Detonation Rocket Engine (RDRE) technology aimed at enhancing long-range precision fires systems. This joint technology development agreement signifies a step forward in advanced rocket technology.

The Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat debuted at the Farnborough International Airshow and participated in Exercise Valiant Shield 2026 in June 2026, operating alongside crewed aircraft. The uncrewed aircraft demonstrated its combat capabilities by successfully firing an AIM-120 AMRAAM missile. Designed for missions such as surveillance and electronic warfare, the Ghost Bat has a range exceeding 2,000 nautical miles and is part of a broader trend of integrating uncrewed systems into military operations.

CAE and Leonardo announced a collaboration on July 22, 2026, to enhance the M-346 Integrated Training System for advanced fighter pilot training. This partnership aims to develop integrated training capabilities that prepare pilots for evolving operational concepts, including AI-enabled systems and autonomous mission environments. The International Flight Training School in Sardinia serves as a model for their integrated training approach, promoting interoperability among allied air forces.

Team Tempest partners announced significant advancements in the UK's Future Combat Air System, including the assembly of the Combat Air Demonstrator and modifications to the Excalibur Flight Test Aircraft. These developments aim to enhance the UK's sovereign combat air capabilities and support the Global Combat Air Programme. The partnership involves the UK Ministry of Defence and key industry players, focusing on innovation and technological expertise.

CAE and Leonardo announced a collaboration on July 22, 2026, to enhance M-346 training and develop integrated training capabilities for advanced fighter pilots. This partnership aims to address evolving operational concepts and improve interoperability among allied air forces, exemplified by the International Flight Training School in Sardinia. The agreement will leverage advanced simulation technologies and live flight training to prepare pilots for future challenges in the battlespace.

BAE Systems unveiled the Brontanax, the UK's first uncrewed autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft, at the Farnborough International Airshow. The aircraft, designed to enhance combat capabilities alongside crewed aircraft, is expected to enter service before the end of the decade. The UK Government is investing £300 million in the StormFighter programme to support the development of this new technology, which aims to provide advanced electronic warfare and precision strike capabilities.

The UK Ministry of Defence awarded a £708 million contract extension to BAE Systems for the development of sixth-generation combat air technologies. This investment supports the Global Combat Air Programme and involves collaboration with industry partners to enhance the UK's defense capabilities. Approximately 4,500 personnel are engaged in researching and developing future combat air systems.