Analysis & Reports

The Israeli military conducted airstrikes on approximately 500 targets across Iran, including military and nuclear facilities, beginning on February 28, 2026. Khamenei's leadership is under scrutiny as moderate clerics call for a ceasefire amid internal chaos. The UN condemned the actions of the US and Israel, while oil prices are projected to rise sharply due to the conflict's impact on global markets.

S.WSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

China authorized the transfer of carrier-killer missiles to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, significantly narrowing the diplomatic window for the U.S. and Israel. This development prompted military preparations and actions by both nations in response to perceived threats from Iran's naval capabilities. Diplomatic efforts in Muscat and Geneva were undermined as tensions escalated, leading to a preemptive military response.

The F-14 Tomcat was employed as a multirole strike platform, notably during Operation Deliberate Force in 1995, where it carried out bombing missions against Bosnian Serb forces. The aircraft, originally designed to carry bombs, demonstrated its capabilities with various munitions, including precision-guided and cluster bombs. Iranian F-14s were also equipped for bombing roles, reflecting the aircraft's intended multirole design.

Russian aviation dropped a record 328 guided aerial bombs across Ukraine on February 27, 2026, marking the highest daily use since October 2025. This surge included 103 airstrikes and was part of a broader strategy to increase aerial pressure while minimizing aircraft exposure to Ukrainian air defenses. Additionally, Russian forces launched 8,681 kamikaze drones and conducted 3,483 artillery strikes during the same period.

Ukrainian Special Systems Company opened a new factory in the UK on February 26, 2023, to produce drones for the Ukrainian military. This initiative, backed by a £200 million investment, aims to ensure a stable supply of critical equipment. The factory is located in Mildenhall and Elmsett, England, and represents a significant step in Ukraine's defense collaboration with the UK.

Germany received an Israeli-made 'Blue Whale' unmanned underwater vehicle on February 25, intended for reconnaissance and detection of maritime threats. The German Navy announced the acquisition at the northern port of Eckernförde, where the vehicle will be utilized. This advanced underwater vehicle has been tested in the Baltic Sea, a region of heightened tensions between Russia and NATO.

Europe is undergoing a significant transformation in defense strategy, with NATO setting a target of 5% of GDP for defense spending by 2035. Poland leads NATO spending, while Germany has approved the procurement of kamikaze drones to enhance its military capabilities. NATO is also increasing operational readiness through exercises and new deployments, particularly in response to Russian threats. Five European nations are working together on drone defense systems.

Dr. Klaus WeberSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

Rheinmetall Mobile Systeme GmbH signed a contract with the Danish Ministry of Defence for five Role 2 field hospitals at the end of 2025. The contract, valued in the mid double-digit million euro range, includes three Role 2B and two Role 2E hospitals, with delivery scheduled within two years. These hospitals are designed for rapid deployment and include advanced medical capabilities, ensuring self-sufficiency in the field.

The Eurofighter Typhoon is undergoing significant upgrades, including the P4E Enhancement package, to enhance its capabilities against threats from fifth-generation fighters like Russia's Su-57 and China's J-20. The Eurofighter consortium, comprising Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK, aims to ensure the Typhoon remains operationally relevant alongside advanced aircraft through the 2060s. More than 680 Eurofighters have been built, and production is set to increase in response to growing military demands.

Fire Point conducted test launches of the FP-7 ballistic missile in Ukraine on February 27. This marks the first public demonstration of the missile's flight testing, designed for operational strikes at medium distances. The FP-7 has a range of up to 200 kilometers and a maximum speed of 1,500 meters per second, with a warhead mass of 150 kilograms.

European defense spending surged to $563 billion in 2025, driven by Germany's 18% increase and significant investments from Nordic and Baltic states. NATO is realigning its strategic focus, with U.S. troop levels in Europe mandated to remain above 76,000. The alliance's operational activities continue, including the launch of Arctic Sentry to address security concerns.

Alexandra ReevesFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

Diehl Defence showcased the Garmr mobile counter-drone system at Enforce Tac 2026 in Nurnberg. The system features advanced sensors, including the Echodyne EchoShield radar and a Dillon M134-D Minigun, designed to counter UAV threats. It includes the Cicada interceptor drone, capable of neutralizing enemy drones. The Garmr represents a significant advancement in counter-drone technology, leveraging AI for enhanced detection and engagement capabilities.

The keel-laying ceremony for the first U212NFS submarine for the Italian Navy took place at the Muggiano shipyard on February 2, 2026. This event marks the beginning of a program to construct four submarines, with delivery expected by 2029. The U212NFS class introduces advanced technologies aimed at enhancing stealth and operational capabilities.

Ukrainian Armed Forces have received over 2,200 Senator armored vehicles, which are being used for troop movement and logistics protection in Ukraine. The procurement of these vehicles is influenced by their battlefield performance and operational flexibility. The Senator's design accommodates lower-quality fuel, enhancing its utility in wartime conditions, while its rapid production supports ongoing military needs.

SpaceX enforced stricter verification for Starlink terminals, disrupting Russian artillery operations in February 2026. This loss of connectivity led to confusion among Russian units and allowed Ukrainian forces to exploit communication gaps in Zaporizhzhia. Concurrently, Russian forces launched a significant strike operation involving 420 drones and 39 missiles targeting Ukrainian infrastructure. The situation reflects ongoing adaptations by both sides in the conflict.

Dmitri VolkovFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

Europe is developing critical defense enablers to deter or defeat Russia without U.S. support, focusing on air and missile defense, long-range strike capabilities, and command and control systems. Analysts estimate that Europe will achieve sufficient long-range strike capabilities within two years, while full strategic integrated air and missile defense may take longer. European nations have significantly increased their investment in air defense systems since 2022, totaling $18 billion.

European nations are developing critical defense enablers to deter Russia without U.S. support, focusing on air and missile defense, long-range strike capabilities, and command and control systems. By the early 2030s, Europe aims to enhance its military capabilities, with significant investments in air defense and long-range strike systems. Analysts emphasize the urgency of these developments in light of the evolving security landscape.

NATO's eastern flank states have significantly increased their military spending and capabilities in response to perceived threats from Russia. Poland allocated approximately 4.5% of its GDP to defense in 2025, while Estonia maintains 43,000 soldiers at wartime strength. Germany has reversed its previous underinvestment, increasing military spending by 18% in 2025. The U.S. anticipates that Europe will take on majority responsibility for conventional defense by 2027.

Alexandra ReevesFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

Rheinmetall Mobile Systeme GmbH signed a contract with the Danish Ministry of Defence for five Role 2 field hospitals at the end of 2025. The contract, valued in the mid double-digit million euro range, includes three Role 2B and two Role 2E hospitals, with delivery scheduled within two years. These hospitals are designed for rapid deployment and include advanced medical capabilities suitable for military operations.

Germany plans to equip its military with one-way attack drones, approving contracts worth €268 million each for Stark Defence and Helsing. Rheinmetall is expected to submit a similar proposal soon. The new loitering munitions are intended for Germany's armored brigade in Lithuania by 2027, marking a significant shift in military policy since the Ukraine conflict.