Analysis & Reports

On May 28, 2023, the U.S. and Japan conducted joint military exercises near Taiwan, aimed at enhancing regional deterrence and emergency response capabilities. China's defense spokesperson criticized this military cooperation, labeling it as provocative and a threat to regional peace. The exercises took place just 110 kilometers from Taiwan, raising tensions in the area.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. and the U.S. Air Force conducted a flight test on 27 May 2026 in San Diego, demonstrating advanced Manned-Unmanned Teaming between the F-35 Lightning II and MQ-20 Avenger. The test showcased the integration of tactical autonomy software and Beyond Line of Sight communications, marking a significant milestone in operational readiness for Collaborative Combat Aircraft.

The U.S. Army awarded BAE Systems a contract on May 27 to develop the ROOK electronic warfare system, designed to protect ground combat vehicles from missiles and drones. This soft-kill system will jam and confuse incoming threats, offering an infinite magazine depth. The contract also includes funding for further development of next-generation countermeasure systems, emphasizing the Army's commitment to enhancing vehicle survivability against evolving threats.

Japan's destroyer Ikazuchi participated in joint naval exercises with the Philippine Navy and U.S. Coast Guard in the South China Sea on April 23, 2026. Discussions on the GSOMIA negotiations were a key focus during Philippine President Marcos's visit to Japan, emphasizing enhanced defense cooperation. The report highlights the operationalization of defense agreements between Japan and the Philippines.

Tanaka TakashiThu May 28 2026Loading...

Canada's Prime Minister Carney announced on the 27th that the Canadian Armed Forces will procure Swedish military reconnaissance aircraft, abandoning U.S. suppliers. The Saab GlobalEye aircraft was selected over U.S. competitors, reflecting a shift in Canada's defense procurement policy. The government is also assessing its future purchases of F-35 fighter jets from the U.S., although Carney stated these decisions are unrelated.

U.S. Special Operations Command is establishing a new drone testing ground at NASA’s Stennis Space Center in Mississippi to enhance capabilities in autonomous warfare. This initiative, part of a broader Pentagon strategy, aims to address gaps in counter-drone technology and improve military readiness. A collaboration event for military officials and industry stakeholders is scheduled for July 2025 to discuss further developments.

The U.S. military plans to establish a separate service branch for cyber operations by 2028, potentially comprising 30,000 personnel, including active-duty troops and civilians. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of cyber warfare capabilities and address existing recruitment and training challenges. The proposal is currently under consideration by Congress and the White House.

The Pentagon awarded a $9.7 billion contract to Dell Federal Systems in Washington to consolidate Microsoft software licenses across the Department of Defense. This five-year agreement aims to streamline IT services and is expected to save $422 million annually. The contract supports the digital strategy for Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control, enhancing operational efficiency and cybersecurity standards.

The House Armed Services Committee (HASC) released a draft of the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, requesting $1.15 trillion in baseline defense spending, while the Pentagon seeks $1.5 trillion. An additional $350 billion is needed to fully fund military priorities, including munitions and shipbuilding. HASC Chairman Mike Rogers is confident that Congress will approve the necessary reconciliation funds.

The Department of the Air Force is currently working to organize Space Force programs into new acquisition portfolios, as stated by acting acquisition czar Thomas Ainsworth at the State of the Space Industrial Base conference in New Mexico. Ainsworth noted that the process is ongoing, with six program acquisition executives already announced. He assured that a public announcement regarding the PAE organization will be made once finalized.

The U.S. Navy plans to retire 46 ships, including 2 aircraft carriers, by 2031, reducing its fleet to 288 warships. Concurrently, China is expanding its naval capabilities, aiming for 9 aircraft carriers by 2035. This shift raises concerns about U.S. military readiness amid growing naval requirements and potential conflict with China.

The U.S. Congress passed the Sharri Briley and Eric Edmundson Veterans Benefits Expansion Act, proposing a 1.5% increase in Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for Gold Star families and an additional $833.33 per month for severely disabled veterans. This legislation aims to provide financial support to families who have sacrificed significantly, addressing the rising costs of living and care for veterans. Veteran organizations have expressed support for the bill, emphasizing the need for increased benefits.

The U.S. Army has received its first batch of new, lightweight Javelin launchers, enhancing its capabilities. The Lightweight Command Launch Unit is 30% smaller and 25% lighter than older models, with improved target detection range. RTX announced plans to ramp up production and has invested $22 million to upgrade its facilities. This development follows the U.S. Army's historical use of Javelins in previous conflicts.

The Pentagon announced the promotion of 22 Navy officers to rear admiral, with no women included, highlighting ongoing barriers to women's advancement in the military. This continues a trend where women have not been promoted to flag officer ranks over the past year. Currently, only 6% of admirals in the Navy are women, despite women making up 15% of active duty Navy captains. The report emphasizes systemic issues affecting women's representation in senior military roles.

Mining companies are increasingly seeking U.S. listings to meet defense-related demand for critical minerals, with at least 18 firms pursuing this in 2025. Guardian Metal Resources aims to supply tungsten for U.S. military needs, while United States Antimony has secured a $245 million defense contract. The U.S. government is actively involved in funding and supporting these initiatives to reduce reliance on foreign sources, particularly from China.

Canada is negotiating with Saab for the procurement of approximately six GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Mark Carney at CANSEC, with Saab confirmed as the preferred supplier. The program aims to enhance the Royal Canadian Air Force's surveillance capabilities, particularly in remote areas like the Arctic.

Canada has selected Saab as the preferred supplier for its future AEW&C capability, initiating discussions and negotiations. This decision was announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney at CANSEC, Canada’s largest defense trade show. Saab will provide the GlobalEye system, which enhances monitoring capabilities for the Royal Canadian Air Force, and aims to invest in Canadian defense industry development.

American Rheinmetall and Harbinger formed a partnership to develop robotic and uncrewed ground vehicles for the U.S. Department of War. The collaboration focuses on enhancing military capabilities through affordable and scalable robotic solutions, with initial efforts in autonomous tactical vehicles and logistics. Both companies are committed to U.S. manufacturing and expect to begin joint demonstrations in Summer 2023.

American Rheinmetall and Harbinger announced a partnership on May 27 to develop robotic and uncrewed ground vehicles for the U.S. Army, focusing on autonomous tactical wheeled vehicles and logistics resupply. The collaboration aims to enhance Army modernization efforts and reduce human exposure in military operations. Joint demonstrations of the new platform are expected to begin this summer, providing early hands-on experience for Army evaluators before procurement decisions are made.

X-Bow Systems achieved a milestone in Texas by completing end-to-end propellant operations for its Rocket Factory in a Box and Gen-0 fixed facility. This advancement aims to improve the production of solid rocket motors, which are vital for military munitions. The initiative is part of the Air Force Research Laboratory's RE-ARM program, designed to enhance manufacturing capabilities in support of national defense needs.