Analysis & Reports

Saab received a SEK 2.9 billion order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) for continued development of future fighter systems from 2026 to 2028, with options for 2029 and 2030. The contract focuses on advancing technologies for both manned and unmanned systems, enhancing Sweden's air combat capabilities. This order follows previous contracts signed in 2024 and 2025.

Japan and South Korea are modernizing their naval forces to counter China's naval expansion and North Korea's missile threats. Japan is constructing two Aegis System Equipped Vessels and converting Izumo-class destroyers into aircraft carriers. South Korea is set to develop nuclear-powered submarines and new destroyers, enhancing its naval capabilities in the region.

At MSPO 2026 in Kielce, OVA showcased the StellarX platform, an AI-powered no-code solution for military training. The Canadian Forces School of Aerospace Technology and Engineering has contracted OVA to develop immersive training environments for the Royal Canadian Air Force. StellarX enables the creation of virtual training scenarios without the need for specialized programming, addressing instructor shortages and improving training efficiency.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu stated that the Israeli military has achieved absolute control over southern Syria and is nearing the defeat of the Iranian regime. He emphasized that this control spans from Mount Hermon to the Mediterranean Sea. The remarks were made during his visit to Mount Hermon on September 9, 2023, amid a politically charged environment as elections approach.

Dmitry Medvedev, Vice Chairman of the Russian Security Council, declared that Russia reserves the right to use nuclear weapons if its security is threatened. He emphasized that any aggression against Russia or Belarus, even from a non-nuclear state with nuclear power support, would be viewed as a joint attack. Medvedev criticized Western nations for their support of Ukraine, claiming it risks nuclear disaster.

North Korea commissioned the Kang Kon destroyer on September 6, 2026, claiming it can carry nuclear weapons. This event coincided with the start of the Freedom Edge 2026 exercise involving Japan, the U.S., and South Korea, raising concerns about regional military dynamics. The destroyer, reported to have a displacement of approximately 5,000 tons, represents a shift in North Korea's naval capabilities, although uncertainties remain regarding its operational effectiveness.

Tanaka TakashiThu Sep 10 2026Loading...

Twenty-Six Defense, the U.S. subsidiary of Israeli-based Elbit Systems, rebranded to emphasize its American-made products and commitment to U.S. warfighters. Headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, the company employs 3,300 people and has secured over $370 million in contracts from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This rebranding occurs in the context of shifting American support following the recent conflict involving Hamas and Israel.

Elbit Systems' U.S. subsidiary rebranded as Twenty-Six Defense in October 2023, emphasizing its commitment to American-made defense products. The company, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, employs 3,300 people and has secured over $370 million in contracts from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. This rebranding comes amid divided American support following recent conflicts involving Israel.

Elbit Systems' U.S. subsidiary rebranded as Twenty-Six Defense in October 2023, highlighting its commitment to American-made products and support for U.S. warfighters. The company, headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas, employs 3,300 people and has secured over $370 million in contracts from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The rebranding comes amid divided American support following recent conflicts involving Israel and Gaza.

The Ukrainian Air Force currently operates F-16 and Mirage 2000 fighter aircraft, with additional F-16s from Belgium and JAS-39C/Ds from Sweden expected next year. Ukrainian defense officials express a preference for the JAS-39 Gripen due to its superior supportability and maintenance autonomy compared to the F-16. Training for Ukrainian pilots on the advanced JAS-39E is already underway, with plans for local production of aircraft in Ukraine.

U.S. diplomatic envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner held talks with Vladimir Putin in Moscow and Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, aiming for a ceasefire in Ukraine. No breakthroughs were achieved, highlighting Washington's misreading of the conflict's stakes. The ongoing war is expected to continue, with Putin confident in his strategy against Ukraine's energy infrastructure. The U.S. faces challenges in establishing a sustainable security framework in Eastern Europe.

Lt. Gen. Steven Marks warned that the Defense Autonomous Working Group (DAWG) may face significant setbacks if it does not receive the nearly $54 billion requested in the FY27 budget. He highlighted the importance of funding for maintaining momentum in drone development, particularly in light of global military developments. Marks noted that without adequate funding, the U.S. risks falling behind in drone capabilities compared to adversaries.

The U.S. Army is updating its biodefense strategy to prepare for biological threats, particularly those enhanced by AI, by 2035. This includes the development of portable genetic-sequencing kits for field analysis and a focus on adapting military operations to bio-contested environments. The strategy aims to address shortcomings revealed during the COVID-19 pandemic and emphasizes the importance of AI in both detecting and countering biological threats.

The U.S. Navy is failing to assess long-term brain injury risks among pilots, as revealed by a Congressional report. This oversight has resulted in inadequate care and treatment for aviators, particularly following a series of suicides among F/A-18 pilots. Cultural stigmas and a lack of dedicated resources further complicate the issue, preventing effective mental health support for naval aviators.

The Army transitioned the 3rd Battalion of the 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment back to a conventional infantry battalion in August 2023 after it was designated as an unmanned systems battalion earlier in the year. Army officials emphasized that this decision does not indicate a reduction in focus on drones and autonomous systems, despite concerns raised by lawmakers regarding the implications for learning from allies like the Ukrainian Armed Forces.

Turkey developed the TAI Kaan, a fifth-generation fighter aircraft, to reduce reliance on the U.S. after being expelled from the F-35 program in 2019. The first prototype flew in February 2024, powered by two General Electric F110 engines. Indonesia has agreed to purchase 48 units, showcasing confidence in Turkey's military capabilities. The Kaan aims to achieve operational independence while still relying on U.S. technology for its engines.

Chase Millsap released a documentary titled 'Band of Brothers: Legacy' on September 9, 2023, in Normandy, commemorating the 25th anniversary of the original series. The film features interviews with cast members and real veterans of Easy Company, showcasing their experiences and the impact of the series. It began as a tribute to paratroopers and evolved into a broader reflection on military legacy.

Chase Millsap premiered the documentary 'Band of Brothers: Legacy' on September 9, 2023, in Normandy, honoring the 25th anniversary of the original series. The film features interviews with cast members and real veterans of Easy Company, showcasing their personal connections and the impact of the series on military culture. The project began as a static line jump over Normandy and evolved into a comprehensive exploration of the legacy of 'Band of Brothers.'

Lockheed Martin Australia has been awarded a $950 million AUD contract to enhance the AIR6500 joint air battle management system, improving Australia's air and missile defense capabilities. This project will integrate various defense platforms, including the F-35A Lightning II and NASAMS, into a unified defense framework. The Australian Department of Defence announced this as part of a larger $2.4 billion AUD investment to modernize air surveillance and defense operations.

Ukraine is procuring approximately 1000 Patriot missiles through EU loans, with most deliveries expected in several years. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are requesting urgent military aid from Western partners to bolster air defense capabilities amid ongoing Russian attacks on Kyiv. NATO Secretary General emphasized the need for increased support to help Ukraine seize current opportunities on the battlefield.