Analysis & Reports

The Liaoning aircraft carrier celebrated its 14th anniversary since commissioning on September 25, 2012. Key milestones include the successful takeoff and landing of the J-15 fighter jet on November 23, 2012, and plans for joint exercises with the Shandong carrier in October 2024.

Japan launched the Akane-class transport vessel on September 17, 2023, at the Yokohama facility of the Japan Marine United Corporation. This vessel is designed for operations in small ports and on beaches, enhancing the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force's logistics capabilities. The JGSDF plans to add three more vessels by FY2027, totaling four, based in Amami Oshima, Kagoshima Prefecture.

Poland's Prime Minister Tusk announced on September 18, 2023, that Poland has officially joined the anti-ballistic missile alliance with Ukraine and several allies. This alliance aims to enhance regional defense cooperation and develop a more affordable missile defense system. Tusk emphasized Poland's commitment to support Ukraine against Russian military aggression.

The first F-35 fighter jet for Germany was delivered by Lockheed Martin on September 18, 2023, in Fort Worth, Texas. German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius attended the ceremony, marking a significant step in Germany's military modernization efforts. The F-35 will replace the Tornado aircraft and is part of a broader initiative to enhance Germany's defense capabilities, including nuclear sharing. Pilot training is set to commence in December 2023 in Arkansas.

China is constructing its next aircraft carrier in Dalian, expected to be 336 to 339 meters long, enhancing its naval capabilities. This development indicates a shift towards more extensive operations beyond the Taiwan Strait, with discussions on logistics and support for sustained deployments. Speculation exists regarding the potential for nuclear power, but no definitive evidence has been provided.

Li MinghuiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force received its first two Collaborative Combat Aircraft, the YFQ-44A Fury and YFQ-42A Vengeance, at Creech Air Force Base on September 24, 2023. These uncrewed jets are designed to operate alongside crewed fighters and are currently undergoing operational testing. The Air Force aims to procure over 150 of these aircraft by the end of the decade, with significant funding allocated for their development and production.

France deployed troops and radar systems to Yanbu, Saudi Arabia, on September 24, 2026, to protect oil facilities from Houthi attacks. This military presence aims to enhance Saudi defenses following recent missile threats. The deployment reflects Saudi Arabia's ongoing reliance on foreign military support amid regional tensions.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

A Chinese HQ-17 short-range air defense system has been spotted in camouflage matching Algerian military vehicles, suggesting it is on its way to Algeria. This system is a Chinese adaptation of the Russian Tor-M1 and is designed to protect against low-flying threats. Algeria operates a significant air defense network that incorporates both Russian and Chinese systems, enhancing its military capabilities in the region.

The U.S. Air Force expanded its operational testing of the ULTRA glider-based spy drone, increasing its contract with DZYNE Technologies to $85.6 million. The ULTRA drone, capable of flying for over 80 hours and carrying significant payloads, has been operational since May 2024 from Al Dhafra Air Base in the United Arab Emirates. The Air Force also plans to assess a turbocharged version, ULTRA Turbo, in the Middle East starting in fiscal 2026.

The U.S. Air Force announced a contract modification worth $87.4 million to Northrop Grumman for the AN/ALQ-257 Integrated Viper Electronic Warfare Suite, raising the total contract value to $1.92 billion. This system, designed for F-16 fighter jets, enhances radar-jamming capabilities and threat warnings. Production is set to be completed by December 31, 2029, with initial deployment for 72 F-16 Block 50 jets planned.

The U.S. Navy awarded Northrop Grumman a contract worth $123.8 million for long-lead parts for 67 AN/APG-85 radars intended for F-35 fighter jets. The contract, announced on September 24, 2023, is funded by the U.S. Air Force and Navy and is set to be completed by February 2031. Due to delays, F-35 jets are currently being delivered without radars, impacting their operational capability.

Two Israeli reserve soldiers were killed by a drone explosion near Beit Hanoun in the Gaza Strip on the 25th. The soldiers were operating two drones when one malfunctioned and exploded at an IDF military outpost. The Israel Defense Forces have suspended the use of the affected drone model and are investigating the incident.

Romania received its first K9 self-propelled howitzers and K10 resupply vehicles from South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace under a nearly $1 billion contract signed on July 9, 2024. The initial delivery is expected in the second half of 2026, with the K9 howitzers set to replace older Soviet-era artillery systems. Hanwha plans to establish a production facility in Romania, aiming to source a significant portion of the work locally.

Uvision and Lendurai announced a partnership on September 24, 2026, to integrate AI-enabled autonomy into unmanned systems. The collaboration will enhance the capabilities of loitering munitions and UAVs, focusing on operator support and mission resilience. This partnership aims to meet the evolving requirements of NATO forces, as stated by the CEOs of both companies.

The Hellenic Navy has selected the Terma SCANTER 6002 radar to modernize its MEKO-class frigates, enhancing counter-UAS capabilities. The radar will be integrated with HAI's Centaur solution and Thales' TACTICOS combat management system to provide real-time situational awareness and improve threat assessment. This integration aims to address the growing concern of small, low-signature threats in maritime operations.

On September 20, 2026, the USS Canberra and P-8A Poseidon participated in a joint maritime cooperation exercise in Yokosuka, involving eight countries including Japan and the Philippines. The exercise included disaster response tabletop exercises and aimed to enhance interoperability among naval forces in the South China Sea. The focus was on establishing common procedures and information sharing among the participating nations.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

Saab is expanding its role in the space domain as a system integrator, recently signing MoUs with SSC Space, OHB Sweden, and Ericsson to enhance Sweden's defense capabilities. These agreements aim to explore cooperation in multi-domain and space-enabled capabilities, emphasizing the importance of space for military operations. Saab's initiatives will integrate advanced technologies to support operational awareness and resilience across various domains.

Dassault Aviation signed a Memorandum of Understanding with AED Cluster Portugal in Lisbon on September 23, 2026, to explore cooperation in defense-related areas, particularly concerning the Portuguese Air Force's F-16 fleet renewal. This agreement follows a bid for the RAFALE aircraft submitted to the Portuguese Government in July 2026 and aims to enhance collaboration with local industrial partners.

Finland and Ukraine signed a defense and security cooperation agreement on 23 September 2023, establishing a framework for defense material cooperation. This agreement, known as the drone deal, aims to initiate drone production in Finland in collaboration with the Ukrainian company General Cherry. The partnership is expected to enhance Europe's defense capabilities and support innovative defense technology development.

BAE Systems has secured a four-year framework agreement to supply artillery and armored vehicle weapon system components to the UK Ministry of Defence. This agreement reinforces BAE's role as a trusted partner, ensuring the continued availability of critical components, including the 105mm Light Gun, for the UK armed forces. The company emphasizes its commitment to supporting the British Army with world-class artillery capabilities.