Analysis & Reports

Lockheed Martin and L3Harris are significantly increasing the production of Patriot PAC-3 missiles, aiming for 2,000 units annually by 2027. This surge responds to urgent demands from Ukraine and NATO allies facing missile threats. The production expansion highlights the need for a diversified air defense strategy, as current reliance on expensive interceptors is unsustainable against cheaper drone threats. NATO's air defense capabilities remain under strain, necessitating coordinated procurement and increased production efforts across Europe.

Alexandra ReevesWed Sep 16 2026Loading...

The British Army tested camouflage horses for covert movement in rugged terrain at Longmoor training area in Hampshire on September 11, 2023. This initiative aims to explore the use of horses in military operations, drawing inspiration from allied experiences. The U.S. maintains an expeditionary cavalry unit for similar purposes, highlighting a potential shift in operational tactics.

The United Nations is considering relocating aid supplies underground in Ukraine to avoid Russian strikes, which have targeted ten warehouses this year. This decision follows significant losses in supplies, including medical and hygiene kits. The UN is also investing in protective measures for its staff and delaying aid purchases to minimize risks.

Royal IHC signed a contract with Naval Group on September 15, 2026, to design crew quarters for the Royal Netherlands Navy's new Orka-class submarines. This contract is part of a larger program to replace the aging Walrus-class submarines, with a total investment of approximately €5.6 billion. The first two submarines are expected to be delivered by the mid-2030s.

Ukrainian forces launched an offensive operation in the Donetsk region, clearing 75 square kilometers of Russian infiltration and recapturing 10 square kilometers. The 3rd Army Corps, under Brigadier-General Andrii Biletskyi, disrupted Russian military logistics and took control of the village of Serednie. This operation, named 'Vivaldi', is part of ongoing efforts to secure key strongholds in the area.

Ukraine proposed to pause attacks on Russian critical infrastructure if Russia ceases its strikes on Ukrainian energy systems. This offer aims to mitigate civilian suffering as winter approaches, while maintaining military options. The proposal raises questions about Russia's strategic objectives and the complexities of verifying any potential agreement.

Alexandra ReevesTue Sep 15 2026Loading...

The European Parliament is set to vote on the Defence Readiness Omnibus on September 16, 2026, which aims to accelerate defense procurement processes and mobilize up to 800 billion euros for defense investments. The Omnibus includes changes to six EU legal acts to streamline approvals for defense infrastructure and procurement. However, the report emphasizes that procedural changes do not equate to immediate military capabilities or readiness.

Dr. Klaus WeberTue Sep 15 2026Loading...

Russia has begun supplying Iran with upgraded munitions and targeting data, enhancing Iran's military capabilities amid ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the Middle East. This partnership includes the production of Shahed drones in Russia and the development of hypersonic missiles. The collaboration poses a significant threat to U.S. forces in the region, with increased sophistication in Iranian drone attacks expected.

Denmark is expanding its fleet of Leopard 2 tank transporters by adding 15 units in 2026. This enhancement aims to improve the armored mobility of the Danish Armed Forces and NATO forces.

Russian forces conducted drone strikes on logistics centers and ports in Ukraine on September 15, targeting a military logistics center in Odesa and two ships in Chornomorsk. Additionally, strikes were carried out on railway infrastructure in western Ukraine used for transporting military supplies from Europe.

In late June 2026, all five in-service Astute-class submarines of the Royal Navy were tied up alongside in port, with one stripped of parts to maintain the others. This situation highlights significant logistical challenges and operational unavailability, as the fleet faced delays and budget issues over the years. The Royal Navy's attack submarine capability is currently compromised, with no submarines at sea during this period.

USS Gerald R. Ford is undergoing a six-month maintenance period at Norfolk Naval Shipyard following a record 326-day deployment and a fire incident. The Navy plans to complete the repairs despite additional maintenance needs due to the extended deployment. The ship returned to Naval Station Norfolk in May 2023 after operating in various regions, including US Southern Command and the Middle East.

HMS Vanguard returned to HM Naval Base Clyde in March 2024 after a record 204-day patrol, highlighting operational challenges faced by the Royal Navy's aging submarine fleet. The vessel's 89-month refit exceeded initial plans, and two recent missile tests failed, raising concerns about the reliability of Britain's nuclear deterrent. The Royal Navy's four Vanguard-class submarines are under increasing pressure as they age beyond their intended service life.

A Russian strike targeted a Warsaw-bound passenger train near Ukraine's western border on September 14, 2026, narrowly missing a diplomatic train. This incident underscores the risks of escalation near NATO territory and the strategic importance of Ukrainian railways for military logistics. Polish officials expressed confidence in NATO's response capabilities, emphasizing the urgency of addressing potential threats.

Alexandra ReevesMon Sep 14 2026Loading...

On September 14, 2026, a Russian drone struck a passenger train locomotive near Yahodyn, Ukraine, close to the Polish border. The attack occurred shortly after a diplomatic train crossed into Poland, prompting evacuation of passengers due to ongoing threats. This incident highlights the ongoing Russian campaign against Ukrainian transport infrastructure and raises concerns about potential escalation into Polish territory.

Dmitri VolkovMon Sep 14 2026Loading...

CAE is presenting its Gravity solution at MSPO 2026 in Kielce, emphasizing multi-domain synthetic training for armed forces. This capability integrates various military domains, including air, land, maritime, space, and cyber, to enhance operational readiness and reduce training costs. The system is designed to support mission-level training and operational assessments, reflecting a shift towards more comprehensive military training solutions.

Rheinmetall has been commissioned to supply a low five-figure quantity of 155mm artillery projectiles to an international customer, with a contract value in the low three-digit million-euro range. Production has commenced, and the order is expected to be completed by 2027. The projectiles are already utilized by various NATO countries and are compatible with a range of 155mm weapon systems.

Russia launched drone strikes targeting fuel stations in Kyiv on September 13, 2026, resulting in at least two fatalities and twelve injuries. This marks a shift in the use of drones from military to economic pressure tactics. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported the destruction of 399 Ukrainian drones overnight, indicating a sustained aerial campaign against Ukrainian infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovMon Sep 14 2026Loading...

The British Royal Air Force tested the Atlas C1 A400M aircraft in Powidz, Poland, on September 13, 2026, in collaboration with the Polish Air Force. The exercise focused on operations on provisional and unpaved runways, addressing NATO's logistical challenges amid increasing threats from Russian drone incursions. This training is part of a strategic effort to ensure operational continuity in the face of potential attacks on established military infrastructure.

Dr. Klaus WeberSun Sep 13 2026Loading...

ELVO is modernizing 30-year-old Mercedes G-Class jeeps for the Greek Army in Thessaloniki, enhancing them with new engines, automatic transmissions, and advanced safety features. This initiative reflects a broader trend in military logistics to retrofit existing vehicles rather than procure new ones. The company, which has a long history of supplying military vehicles, is also expanding its manufacturing capabilities and investing in drone production.