Analysis & Reports

Russia's Iskander-M missile system is actively being utilized in Ukraine, demonstrating advanced capabilities against air defenses. The missile can carry nuclear payloads and employs tactics to evade interception. Continuous improvements have been made based on battlefield experience, and it can coordinate with drone swarms to enhance its effectiveness. The system poses a significant threat to NATO countries due to its range and capabilities.

The U.S. Army has partnered with Auriga Space to test an electromagnetic weapon system in California. This three-year Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) aims to explore the potential of electromagnetic accelerators as a cost-effective alternative to conventional missile interceptors. The system, named Hermes, is designed for rapid engagement against drone swarms, addressing current supply chain challenges in interceptor production.

The U.S. Army is set to award contracts for the Common Autonomous Multi-Domain Launcher (CAML) program in August 2023. Concurrently, the Army is negotiating with AeroVironment for the Enduring-High Energy Laser (E-HEL) program, aimed at countering drone threats. The CAML will replace the Typhon long-range launcher, and the Army seeks to acquire 20 E-HEL systems by 2026.

Japan's Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency selected Quantum Systems to develop drone interception technology as part of its Counter-UAS Proof-of-Concept Program. This initiative reflects Japan's urgent need to counter drone threats from Russia, China, and North Korea, with a budget of approximately 277.3 billion yen allocated for unmanned systems capabilities this fiscal year. Quantum Systems is developing the Jäger interceptor drone and has plans to integrate counter-drone capabilities across multiple platforms.

The U.S. Air Force conducted a live-fire test of the YFQ-44A Collaborative Combat Aircraft, successfully firing an AIM-120 AMRAAM missile at a target over the Mojave Desert on October 31, 2025. This test marks a significant milestone in the development of unmanned fighter jets designed to operate alongside crewed aircraft. A human operator retained command throughout the engagement, ensuring that the decision to fire was not made autonomously.

On the 15th of the month, Ukraine and the EU signed a drone agreement in Kyiv, enhancing defense cooperation. This agreement aims to leverage Ukraine's drone production capabilities, with a goal of increasing annual output to 20 million drones. Concurrently, Russia is reportedly upgrading its drone technology to counter these developments.

The Space Development Agency (SDA) is resuming the launch of 21 Tranche 1 Transport Layer satellites on a SpaceX Falcon 9 in Washington on Thursday. This follows a strategic pause to address technical issues with previously launched satellites. The SDA aims to establish a constellation of 158 satellites to enhance military satellite capabilities, despite facing challenges with software, hardware, and regulatory approvals.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is undergoing a planned incremental availability (PIA) at Norfolk Naval Shipyard, Virginia, which will last 18 months due to extensive fire damage and sewage system failures. Approximately 4000 workers will conduct necessary repairs, including inspections and maintenance of various systems. This downtime is significant for the U.S. Navy's operational readiness during a critical period.

The UK has established an artillery sustainment hub in Sheffield to support Ukrainian military systems. This hub is significantly dependent on contracts to maintain the artillery capabilities provided to Ukraine. The development indicates a strategic move to enhance Ukraine's artillery support.

China conducted a submarine-launched ballistic missile test on July 6, 2023, demonstrating a range of 7,300 kilometers, likely over the Philippines, before landing in the Pacific. Concurrently, Chinese Coast Guard vessels maintained a routine presence near Taiwan, indicating a strategy to normalize operations and exert pressure on Taiwan and its allies. This dual approach combines military signaling with sustained maritime operations.

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Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) resumed missile and drone attacks on shipping in the Strait of Hormuz, prompting U.S. airstrikes against Iranian coastal targets. The U.S. Navy reinstated a blockade to protect maritime traffic, while discussions of potential ground operations against Iran are ongoing. The situation reflects the complexities of U.S. military strategy in the region and the implications of possible withdrawal.

The Space Development Agency is set to launch 21 Tranche 1 satellites aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Vandenberg Space Force Base on Thursday. This launch follows a nine-month pause due to technical issues with earlier satellites. The satellites are part of a military communication network, and there are concerns about the agency's future as draft legislation proposes to dissolve it.

China conducted coast guard patrols in the Pacific Ocean east of Taiwan in June 2023 and test-fired a submarine-launched ballistic missile from the South China Sea in July 2023. These actions are part of China's strategy to deter rivals and assert territorial claims, with the coast guard's presence indicating a long-term military posture. The missile test, which drew international protests, showcased China's nuclear capabilities and aimed to warn regional powers against military buildup.

The U.S. Navy is struggling with its new warship programs, including the Littoral Combat Ship, Zumwalt destroyer, and Constellation frigate, all of which have failed to meet expectations. The Government Accountability Office has identified ongoing issues with the Navy's shipbuilding practices, indicating that new programs are likely to repeat past mistakes. Meanwhile, China's naval expansion continues to pose a significant challenge to U.S. maritime capabilities.

Five European defense firms signed a letter of intent in Paris to develop an exo-atmospheric interceptor system to counter the Oreshnik missile threat from Russia. The consortium aims to start engineering work in August 2026 and conduct a space test in 2027, addressing Europe's need for a sovereign upper-layer missile defense capability. This initiative reflects a shift in European defense strategy, acknowledging the limitations of current systems like Patriot batteries.

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The Destinus consortium, comprising five European defense firms, is set to develop Europe's first exo-atmospheric interceptor, with a test planned for 2027. This initiative addresses Europe's current missile defense gap against medium- and intermediate-range ballistic threats. The project aims to enhance NATO's integrated air and missile defense capabilities, reflecting a shift in European defense procurement towards active war experience and sovereignty in defense systems.

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The US Air Force's YFQ-44A drone successfully fired an AMRAAM missile during a recent test over the Mojave Desert. This marks the first time a wingman drone has fired a live munition, demonstrating advanced capabilities in autonomous operations. The test was conducted from Edwards Air Force Base, with plans for a similar test involving the YFQ-42A drone in the fall.

ZeroUSV completed the construction of the Oceanus17, a 17-meter robotic ship designed for extended ocean patrols. The vessel, which can operate for over 50 days without returning to port, features advanced autonomous navigation and a significant payload capacity. It will undergo final preparations at ZeroUSV's headquarters in Plymouth before its public debut next month.

UK Defence Innovation (UKDI) announced a $536 million annual budget and five core themes for military technology development, effective July 1, 2025. The themes include Autonomy, Decision Advantage, Logistics and Support, Effects, and Protection, aimed at enhancing the UK's military capabilities. This initiative consolidates previous innovation bodies to streamline defense procurement and foster collaboration with the technology sector.

The U.S. Navy faces a significant operational challenge as 37-40% of its nuclear attack submarines are currently unavailable due to maintenance delays at aging shipyards. This situation has resulted in over 33,700 days of maintenance delays since 2014, costing the Navy approximately $4.2 billion in support for idle submarines. The Navy is attempting to address these issues through the Shipyard Infrastructure Optimization Program, but improvements are expected to take two decades.