Analysis & Reports

The Missile Defense Agency is developing a new mobile radar system, Forward Based Mode Radar Next, to enhance missile tracking capabilities. This system is designed to be rapidly deployable via C-17 aircraft and aims to provide early warning against ballistic and hypersonic threats. The agency emphasizes the need for cost-effective production and low detection signatures for operational effectiveness.

The U.S. Navy has ordered 12 production kits of the High Frequency Over-the-Horizon Communication system (HFORCE) from MaXentric Technologies for $9.6 million. This new long-range radio system is designed to ensure communication capabilities when satellite links are compromised. The project is set to be completed by March 2028, with work being conducted in New Jersey and California.

The U.S. Navy awarded Saab a $51.5 million contract modification for the production of Sea Giraffe Multi-Mode Radar systems, with work split between Gothenburg, Sweden, and Syracuse, New York. The contract, which includes engineering support and spare parts, is funded by both Coast Guard and Navy accounts and is expected to be completed by December 2028.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $490 million contract to CFM International for up to 24 replacement engine cores for its P-8A Poseidon aircraft, with half allocated for the Navy and half for allied militaries. The contract includes logistics support and will be executed across facilities in France and the U.S., running through September 2031. The P-8A is utilized by multiple countries, reflecting its widespread adoption.

Isambard Company opened a large factory in London, the largest since WWII, to produce high-precision metal parts for defense equipment. The facility, expected to employ 200 people by 2027, will support major clients like Babcock and Anduril. This move aligns with the growing defense spending in Europe amid rising tensions with Russia.

Various military and defense systems were showcased at the 2026 AFA Air Space & Cyber conference in Maryland. Northrop Grumman presented its counter-drone system, while RTX displayed a Zero-G Helmet Mounted Display for pilots. Ursa Major exhibited liquid-fueled rocket engines, and the Air Force Research Laboratory showcased a battlefield blood recycling system. Additionally, Teledyne Flir brought ground robots to the event.

The Space Development Agency (SDA) is currently a year behind schedule on its orbital mesh network for satellite data relay, as revealed by SDA director G.P. Sandhoo at the AFA 2026 conference in National Harbor, Maryland. The network is crucial for the Proliferated Warfighter Space Architecture (PSWA) and aims to enhance data transfer between satellites. Delays are attributed to supply chain issues with Optical Communication Terminals (OCTs), prompting SDA to explore alternative suppliers for future satellite tranches.

The U.S. Army is investing an additional $818 million in the production of the Armored Multi-Purpose Vehicle (AMPV) to replace the aging M113 troop carriers. This funding increases the total contract value with BAE Systems to over $3.3 billion, with production expected to continue until May 31, 2030. The AMPV will be produced in multiple variants to fulfill various roles within the Army's armored brigade combat teams.

The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $1.21 billion contract to develop the Precision Strike Missile Increment 2, aimed at replenishing stocks depleted during combat against Iran. This missile will enhance capabilities to target moving threats and is expected to be completed by September 13, 2031. The contract reflects the urgency of rebuilding missile inventories after significant usage in recent military operations.

Lockheed Martin and L3Harris are significantly increasing the production of Patriot PAC-3 missiles, aiming for 2,000 units annually by 2027. This surge responds to urgent demands from Ukraine and NATO allies facing missile threats. The production expansion highlights the need for a diversified air defense strategy, as current reliance on expensive interceptors is unsustainable against cheaper drone threats. NATO's air defense capabilities remain under strain, necessitating coordinated procurement and increased production efforts across Europe.

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Pratt & Whitney announced that the F-35 engine upgrade has successfully passed a crucial design review, allowing the program to advance to testing phases. Ground testing is set to commence in 2027, followed by flight testing around 2030, with production expected to start in 2031. The upgrade aims to enhance engine performance and reduce maintenance costs, benefiting all variants of the F-35.

The U.S. Air Force is modernizing its aerial refueling tanker fleet, focusing on the KC-135 Stratotanker and KC-46A Pegasus. This ongoing recapitalization aims to enhance mission capability and ensure the joint force's success. Officials emphasize the importance of connectivity and industry partnerships to expedite the delivery of capabilities. The modernization efforts will continue for decades, supporting both legacy and new platforms.

Anduril Industries is unable to commence production of FQ-44 Fury drones until the FY27 budget is approved by Congress, expected by December 2023. The company is currently building prototypes and integrating munitions at its Arsenal-1 facility in Columbus, Ohio. The U.S. Air Force anticipates having 500 Collaborative Combat Aircraft in service by 2032, with ongoing tests and integration efforts underway at Creech Air Force Base in Nevada.

The U.S. Space Force faces significant budget constraints, with 10% of its programs unable to proceed without a new spending bill. General Douglas Schiess highlighted the urgency for Congress to approve the budget, as the Space Force aims to expand to 20,000 personnel by the end of the decade. He confirmed the existence of operational space control weapons in orbit, emphasizing the need for resources to maintain military readiness against emerging threats.

Pratt & Whitney has licensed Hermeus to produce the F100-PW-229 turbofan engine in National Harbor, enhancing the defense industrial base amid rising demand. This agreement supports the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft project and anticipates a peak demand of over 180 engines annually by fiscal year 2034. Hermeus is also developing the Quarterhorse drone and a new turbine-based combined cycle engine.

The U.S. Navy ordered production rounds of Castelion's Blackbeard hypersonic missiles in a deal worth up to $200 million on September 14, 2026. This order follows a previous contract for 50 prototypes and marks the transition of Blackbeard from prototype to production status. The hypersonic weapon is intended for air-launch from carrier-based aircraft, enhancing naval strike capabilities.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $562 million contract to Boeing for the production of three Lot 1 MQ-25A Stingray unmanned tankers. This marks the Navy's first operational carrier-based unmanned aircraft, designed to extend the capabilities of the F/A-18 Super Hornets. Initial deliveries are scheduled for 2029, following a series of delays in the program's timeline.

The U.S. Army is developing the M1E3 Abrams main battle tank, allocating $740.5 million for the first 30 units. This new hybrid diesel-electric design aims to reduce the weight from 73 tons to 60 tons, addressing logistical challenges. The Army's broader upgrade program for the Abrams totals $17.04 billion, reflecting a shift in focus towards enhancing existing capabilities rather than merely upgrading older models.

The Pentagon confirmed the purchase of 296 F-35 fighters for $24.29 billion, with the average cost of an F-35A now at $92 million. Prices for all three variants have risen due to inflation and increased production costs. The engines are procured separately, and the total acquisition cost for the F-35 program has reached $536.2 billion.

The defense industrial base is under pressure from supply chain shortages and increased demand for military materials. AI tools are being explored to enhance design and manufacturing processes. The inaugural Defense Industrial Base Accelerator (DIBX) was held in Philadelphia to address these challenges. Supply chains are strained by material shortages and evolving military requirements, necessitating new skillsets for the workforce.