Analysis & Reports

The Pentagon announced the selection of four directed-energy weapon systems for a counter-drone pilot program at U.S. bases. The pilot, run by Joint Interagency Task Force 401, will last for one year and gather data on the performance and cost of these systems. Selected locations include Fort Huachuca, Fort Bliss, Naval Base Kitsap, Grand Forks Air Force Base, and Whiteman Air Force Base. The systems include high-energy lasers and high-powered microwaves designed to enhance drone defense capabilities.

France test-fired an upgraded M51.3 missile from the Le Vigilant submarine off Finistère on Tuesday. This launch, part of a modernization effort for France's nuclear deterrent, demonstrated the missile's capabilities, including a range exceeding 9,500 kilometers. President Macron emphasized the importance of this event for France's strategic credibility, noting that it would be closely monitored by allies and adversaries alike.

Argentina's Armed Forces selected IWI's ARAD 5 and ARAD 7 rifles in a government-to-government agreement with Israel. This decision aims to modernize the country's individual weapons capabilities, highlighting the rifles' reliability and precision. The ARAD system includes advanced features and is equipped with Meprolight M5 red-dot sights, enhancing its operational effectiveness.

France test-fired its newest submarine-launched nuclear missile, the M51.3, from the submarine Le Vigilant on October 6, 2023, in the North Atlantic. The launch, observed by President Macron, was conducted to certify the submarine's operational capabilities following maintenance. The M51.3 missile is designed for improved accuracy and is part of France's ongoing nuclear deterrent strategy, which includes a stockpile of approximately 290 warheads.

USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) was delivered to the U.S. Navy in August 2026 and is currently conducting sea trials. The carrier is expected to achieve operational readiness by March 2027 after undergoing significant modifications to support the F-35C Lightning II. The project faced delays and budget overruns, totaling nearly $2 billion over the original budget.

Saronic broke ground on its new shipyard, Port Alpha, in Brownsville, Texas, aiming to produce Landing Craft Utility vessels for the U.S. Navy. The facility will initially cover 800 acres, with plans to expand to 4,000 acres, and is expected to create 10,000 jobs. Saronic has invested $300 million in infrastructure to support the production of military vessels, including autonomous and manned ships.

Argentina's armed forces received their first batch of IWI ARAD rifles from Israel on September 29, 2023, during a ceremony in Buenos Aires. This initial delivery includes 250 rifles, with plans to replace older FN FAL and M-16 models. Training for personnel from the Army, Navy, and Air Force is scheduled for October, and a total order of 1,600 rifles is anticipated, with the next batch expected in early 2027.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) has faced significant operational challenges with its VCHT system, leading to $4.2 million in maintenance costs. The system, designed for efficient waste management, has encountered clogs and required costly acid flushes. U.S. Navy personnel continue to operate and maintain the system while deployed in the Caribbean Sea as part of ongoing military operations.

The U.S. Navy and UK Royal Navy conducted a sinking exercise (SINKEX) in the North Atlantic from September 14-25, 2026, using the decommissioned frigate Klakring as a target. The exercise tested the capabilities of the SM-6 missile and other munitions, enhancing interoperability between the two navies. Data collected during the exercise will be used to inform future weapons designs.

Embraer delivered the first C-390 Millennium multi-mission transport aircraft to the Uzbekistan Air Force on September 25, 2026, in Gavião Peixoto, Brazil. This marks Uzbekistan as the first operator of the C-390 in Central Asia, enhancing its air mobility capabilities. The delivery includes a comprehensive training and support package, reinforcing Uzbekistan's military modernization efforts.

The U.S. Navy is adapting its strategies to counter the increasing threats posed by Chinese anti-ship missiles and submarines in the Pacific and Caribbean regions. The Navy maintains 11 aircraft carriers, which are now considered vulnerable to advanced Chinese weaponry, including the DF-26 missile and J-35 fighter. As a response, the Navy is enhancing its operational tactics and integrating new technologies to ensure the survivability of its carrier strike groups.

Thousands of surplus Smith & Wesson Model 10 revolvers were issued to the Panamanian National Police after the conflict in Panama. The Model 10 has a long history of use by military and police forces, including the Hong Kong Police Force until 2024. In 2025, S&W reintroduced the Model 10 Classic with updated features.

The U.S. Navy's aircraft carriers, including the Ford-class and Nimitz-class, face significant threats from advanced torpedoes, drones, and missiles. Cyberattacks have surged, potentially crippling carrier operations. Additionally, internal challenges such as maintenance and high operational demands threaten their effectiveness.

The M551 Sheridan light tank, retired in 1997, was notable for its ability to be deployed by parachute alongside airborne forces and its potent 152mm gun. Despite its retirement, it remains the U.S. Army's best post-World War II light tank due to its unique capabilities. The recent failure of the M10 Booker light tank highlights the lack of a suitable replacement for the Sheridan's operational role.

The U.S. State Department approved a $140 million sale of four UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters to the Argentine Army on September 10, 2026. This deal marks the first acquisition of Black Hawks by Argentina, intended to replace its aging fleet of Bell UH-1H Hueys. The sale includes additional equipment such as spare engines and various support systems, with no additional U.S. personnel required in Argentina for the transaction.

The Pentagon is expanding its testing of emerging technologies, including unmanned surface vessels and high-energy lasers, along the US-Mexico border. This initiative aims to enhance border security and combat narco-trafficking. Future deployments depend on budget negotiations in Congress, with ongoing assessments of current technologies and potential new projects planned for the upcoming fiscal year.

On 27 March 1999, the F-117A Nighthawk, call sign Vega 31, was shot down by the 3rd Battalion of the Yugoslav Army’s 250th Air Defence Missile Brigade near Budjanovci during NATO's Operation Allied Force. The aircraft was targeted using an Isayev S-125 missile system, resulting in the first loss of an F-117 to enemy fire. Lt. Col. Dale Zelko ejected and was rescued after eight hours.

The U.S. State Department approved the sale of UH-60L Black Hawk helicopters and related equipment to Argentina on September 10, with a total estimated value of 1.4 billion USD.

The U.S. Air Force awarded $149 million in contracts to four manufacturers for the production of metal cases for large bunker-busting bombs. The contracts, which involve Superior Forge and Steel, Ellwood National Forge, Faxon Machining LLC, and Grand Valley Manufacturing, are expected to be completed by September 7, 2033. This production supports the Air Force's existing GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator and the development of the Next Generation Penetrator.

SIATT signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Safran Electronics & Defense in São José dos Campos, Brazil, on 8 September 2026, to collaborate on missile systems and related technologies. The agreement includes developing solid rocket motor capabilities at SIATT's facilities and exploring cooperation in critical technologies such as navigation systems and optronic sights.