Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $117.1 million contract for post-production support of the AN/APR-48B radar frequency interferometer used on Apache helicopters. This contract will last until October 12, 2031, and involves maintaining the system that detects enemy radars. Lockheed Martin is also developing a Generation 3 radar system to eventually replace the current model.

Raytheon was awarded an $8 billion contract by the U.S. Air Force on October 13, 2023, to modernize and restart production of nuclear command terminals. The work will take place in Marlborough, Massachusetts, and Largo, Florida, and is expected to continue through October 12, 2036. These terminals are essential for linking national leaders to U.S. nuclear forces.

Lockheed Martin and Avio announced a strategic cooperation agreement for the production of solid rocket motors on October 13, 2026, in Colleferro, Virginia. This collaboration aims to enhance the resiliency of the U.S. supply chain for solid rocket motors, focusing on the Extended Range GMLRS and Precision Strike Missile. Avio has committed over $500 million to increase production capacity in the United States.

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and SIG SAUER successfully tested the FIRE STORM 250 unmanned system in Washington DC on October 13, 2026. The system demonstrated its capabilities in airborne surveillance and precision firepower, integrating a SIG SAUER MICROLIGHT Remote Controlled Weapon Station with a M250 machine gun. This innovative platform is designed for tactical missions, providing operational flexibility and extended reach for forces in the field.

Oshkosh Defense began production of the Dutch Expeditionary Patrol Vehicle (DXPV) prototype for the Netherlands Ministry of Defence on October 13, 2026. This vehicle, derived from the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle (JLTV), incorporates enhancements for improved mobility and maritime operations. The production leverages an active production line, allowing for rapid development and delivery of military capabilities.

The U.S. Army and Navy collaborated to develop a Triple Container rigid-wall shelter system capable of operating in extreme Arctic conditions, with testing conducted in New Hampshire. This initiative aims to enhance military operability in the Arctic, addressing challenges posed by low temperatures. The shelter system can function in temperatures as low as -65 degrees Fahrenheit, significantly improving the operational capabilities of U.S. forces in the region.

Avio will produce solid rocket motors for Lockheed Martin’s Extended Range GMLRS and Precision Strike Missile, establishing itself as a full-time supplier. The production facility in Hurt, Virginia, is expected to start operations in 2029. This agreement provides Lockheed with an additional source of motors, enhancing their production capabilities against emerging threats.

The U.S. Army announced its commitment to modernization and autonomous systems by redesignating the Futures and Concepts Command as the U.S. Army Futures and Autonomous Systems Command (FASCOM) in Washington, D.C. FASCOM will develop autonomous capabilities and align the Army's force structure with new operational guidance. Concerns were expressed regarding the closure of the Unmanned Assault Battalion, emphasizing a decentralized approach to drone warfare.

BAE Systems unveiled new layered air-defense systems, including the Multi-Domain Artillery Cannon System (MDACS) and High-Power Microwave (HPM), designed to counter missiles and drones. These systems were introduced at the annual meeting of the Association of the United States Army. MDACS utilizes Hypervelocity Projectiles for both offensive and defensive operations, while HPM targets drone swarms with directed energy. Both systems aim to enhance protection for critical installations and field units.

The U.S. Army is re-evaluating its munitions procurement goals, focusing on increasing production of Patriot air defense missiles, particularly the PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement, during discussions at the AUSA annual meeting in Washington, D.C. The Army aims to reach a production goal of 2,000 interceptors, with potential increases to 4,000 or more. Additionally, the Army is considering the purchase of PAC-2 Guidance Enhanced Missile-Tactical, contingent on Congressional funding.

BAE Systems delivered the 100,000th APKWS guidance kit in early 2026, enhancing U.S. and allied forces' capabilities against low-cost drone threats. The kit has been integrated into platforms like the F-15E Strike Eagle and Eurofighter Typhoon, demonstrating effectiveness in air-to-air engagements. Production capacity is set to meet rising demand, supported by a $1.7 billion contract from the U.S. Navy.

The U.S. Army tested unmanned systems at Fort Bragg to enhance obstacle breaching and reduce exposure to battlefield hazards. Project Sandhills 2.0 involved various autonomous systems, including drones and trucks, and aims to inform future Army capabilities. The Army is transitioning to acquisition and organizational changes for these technologies, establishing the Futures and Autonomous Systems Command to integrate autonomous capabilities across military formations by fiscal 2028.

Rivet developed militarized smart glasses called Rivet Hard Spec for the U.S. Army to enhance situational awareness and communication on the battlefield. The company delivered 70 prototypes and aims to enable soldiers to command AI agents for controlling robots and drones. Rivet has raised $55 million in funding to support this initiative and is also adapting the technology for aerospace manufacturing and maintenance tasks.

The U.S. military is currently facing severe ammunition shortages due to ongoing conflicts, prompting defense contractors like Anduril Industries and Lockheed Martin to rapidly increase production of new missile systems. Anduril has launched the Steelfin modular air defense missiles, while Lockheed Martin is enhancing the Patriot-3 interceptor to counter hypersonic threats. The Pentagon has allocated $18.2 billion to replenish missile stocks, indicating a significant ramp-up in production capabilities across the defense industry.

The U.S. Army is developing high-energy laser counter-drone weapons, with the first unit expected to be operational by early 2028. AeroVironment has been awarded a $464.8 million contract for the LOCUST X3 system, which will be delivered by Q4 of FY 2027. The Army aims to enhance its capabilities against unmanned aircraft systems, having already demonstrated successful engagements with a prototype.

USS Triton (SSRN-586) completed the first submerged circumnavigation of the globe in February 1960 under Captain Edward L. Beach Jr. The submarine, powered by two Westinghouse S4G nuclear reactors, was decommissioned on May 3, 1969, after less than a decade of service and was later scrapped. Triton was notable for its size, speed, and advanced technology for its time, including six torpedo tubes and air-search radar.

The 2026 AUSA trade show in Washington, D.C. featured a wide array of military technologies, including drones and counter-drone systems. The Ukrainian military showcased small drones, while various defense contractors displayed advanced equipment such as amphibious robots and thermal weapons sights. Notable participants included General Atomics and Hanwha Aerospace, highlighting innovations in unmanned systems.

Anduril Industries announced the release of the Steelfin family of surface-to-air interceptor missiles, designed for mass production and adaptable to various threats. The company plans to produce several thousand variants annually, compatible with existing launch systems and fire control software. This initiative aims to bolster air defense capabilities following the depletion of U.S. munitions after the Iran war. Additionally, Anduril secured a $162.8 million contract from the U.S. Army to enhance command and control systems.

Lockheed Martin is exploring partnerships to produce PAC-3 Patriot interceptors in Europe to meet Ukraine's defense needs against Russian threats. Discussions have intensified following promises made to Ukraine for local production. The company is considering Germany as a production site, potentially partnering with Diehl Defence, while assessing the risks of establishing facilities in Ukraine due to the ongoing conflict.

General Dynamics showcased the Wolf XM30, a candidate to replace the M2 Bradley, along with the PERCH 2.0, M-SHORAD Increment 4, and F600 Leonidas at the AUSA annual meeting this week. The Army is currently testing the PERCH 2.0 prototype at Fort Hood, Texas, which enables tanks to launch loitering munitions while keeping operators protected. The M-SHORAD Increment 4 aims to enhance air-defense capabilities.