Analysis & Reports

The Ukrainian Navy's Sargan-3000 destroyed a Russian drone boat in the Black Sea, marking the first-ever battle between uncrewed naval vessels. The engagement involved a remote-controlled 12.7mm machine gun turret and was supported by Ukraine's Defense Intelligence. This incident highlights ongoing military operations in the region, with Ukraine successfully targeting Russian naval assets.

Uralvagonzavod delivered a new batch of T-90M and T-72B3M tanks to the Russian Army, featuring upgraded protection systems. This delivery coincided with Tank Crew Day, highlighting the ongoing efforts to enhance Russia's armored capabilities amid significant losses in Ukraine. The tanks include advanced protective features developed over two years, aimed at improving battlefield survivability.

Nuclear-armed states expanded their arsenals in 2025, with the global count of nuclear warheads reaching approximately 12,187. The United States and Russia continue to lead in warhead numbers, while China and India also increased their stockpiles. The expiration of the New START treaty in February 2026 has reduced transparency regarding nuclear deployments. Tensions in South Asia escalated with significant conflict between India and Pakistan.

The Tupolev Design Bureau has been developing the PAK-DA stealth bomber since 2007, but the program has faced significant delays with no prototype completed. The bomber is expected to carry a 35-ton payload and have a range of 12,000 km, resembling the U.S. B-2 Spirit. As of 2023, the future of the program is uncertain, influenced by geopolitical factors and previous missed deadlines.

The Tupolev Design Bureau has been developing the PAK-DA stealth bomber since 2007, but the program has faced significant delays with no prototype or official images released. The bomber is expected to carry a 35-ton payload and have a range of 12,000 km, but its future remains uncertain due to ongoing development challenges.

Kremlin-backed actors are utilizing AI to develop autonomous lethal drones capable of selecting targets and issuing commands without human intervention. The group GTG-27005 has created AI models for this purpose, while also engaging in data theft and disinformation campaigns. These operations are part of a broader strategy to enhance Russian influence through automated systems and fake media.

The CIA procured high-grade titanium from the Soviet Union through shell companies in the 1960s for the construction of the SR-71 Blackbird. The aircraft, primarily made of titanium, was designed to withstand extreme temperatures while flying at high speeds. Much of the titanium ore came from Soviet Ukraine, and the procurement process involved a covert network to avoid detection by the Soviets. A total of 32 SR-71s were built, reflecting the significant engineering challenges faced during the program.

Russia continues to modernize its fleet of Tu-160 bombers, having built approximately four new aircraft since 2015. The Tu-160, capable of carrying up to 12 cruise missiles, remains a key strategic asset for the Russian Air Force. Production is hampered by slow engine manufacturing and modernization efforts, but the aircraft's capabilities have been enhanced with new avionics and engines.

The Soviet Navy operated six Typhoon-class submarines from 1981 until the last was decommissioned in February 2023. These submarines displaced 48,000 tons, carried up to 200 nuclear warheads, and could remain submerged under Arctic ice for 120 days. Designed to serve as a nuclear deterrent, the Typhoon-class featured unique amenities for crew comfort, including a swimming pool and sauna.

Uzbekistan received its first C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft on September 10, 2026, marking its entry as the first operator of this model in Central Asia. The acquisition includes two aircraft, enhancing the capabilities of the Uzbek Air Force, which also operates other transport aircraft. This move is part of Uzbekistan's broader strategy to modernize its military fleet with Western and Chinese equipment.

Iranian engineers are collaborating with Russian military technology sectors, focusing on UAVs and navigation systems as of 2026. Nearly 10,000 Iranian specialists are being trained in Russia, enhancing Iran's military capabilities. This partnership allows Iran to access advanced technologies while providing Russia with expertise in circumventing sanctions. The collaboration emphasizes dual-use technologies and the evolution of military systems.

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Ukraine's Defense Forces struck Russian naval assets at Novorossiysk on September 8-9, 2023, hitting the Admiral Essen and Admiral Makarov frigates, along with other vessels. The operation involved drones and at least one Neptune cruise missile, resulting in significant damage and civilian casualties from debris. The extent of the damage remains unverified, with assessments ongoing.

Rostec is launching a defense marketplace in September 2026 to enhance drone protection for Russian infrastructure. This initiative aims to connect manufacturers with defense needs, particularly in response to vulnerabilities exposed by Ukrainian strikes. The marketplace will feature anti-drone systems and related equipment, with a significant portion of applications coming from Russian corporations. The move reflects budgetary pressures and a shift towards more cost-effective defense solutions.

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Ukraine is utilizing the FP-5 Flamingo cruise missile to strike high-value military and industrial targets in Russia, including locations in Samara and Volgograd. The missile, developed by Fire Point, has a range of 3,000 kilometers and carries a payload of 1,150 kilograms. Its operational use marks a significant development in Ukraine's military capabilities, allowing for deep strikes independent of foreign supplies.

Ukraine has expanded its drone campaign against Russian naval assets into the Mediterranean, Caspian, and Baltic Seas, conducting multiple strikes from November 2024 to September 2026. Notable incidents include attacks on the Qendil tanker and the sinking of the Arctic Metagaz. Ukrainian forces have targeted various Russian vessels and infrastructure, with the SBU claiming responsibility for several operations.

U.S. and European defense analysts express concerns over potential Russian attacks on NATO, particularly targeting Poland and the Baltic states. The report highlights the possibility of cyber-attacks and missile strikes, as well as the implications of a nuclear conflict. Analysts suggest that Russia may miscalculate its military strength and that the international community should consider the dismantlement of Russia post-conflict.

Two Russian Su-35S fighter jets collided in the Kursk region, resulting in one pilot's death and another's serious injury. The incident occurred amid ongoing Russian aviation operations in the area, which has experienced multiple aircraft losses since the start of the Ukraine conflict. The full circumstances of the collision are still under investigation, with no independent confirmation from Russian or Ukrainian officials at this time.

Azerbaijan is commencing local production of naval drones, specifically the SALVO and KAYRA unmanned surface vessels, in collaboration with Turkey. President Ilham Aliyev visited the production facility on September 6, where he was briefed on the vessels' capabilities and testing. This initiative marks a significant shift in Azerbaijan's defense capabilities, moving from operating to producing advanced naval drones domestically.

Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted drone strikes on Millerovo airbase in Rostov Oblast and Sochi airport in Krasnodar Krai on August 30 and September 4, respectively. The strikes resulted in significant damage, including the destruction of an ammunition depot and radar systems at Millerovo, and the loss of military helicopters at Sochi. The FP-1 drones were used in these operations, highlighting their role in Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities.

Russia continues to produce Su-34 fighter-bombers at the Novosibirsk Aviation Plant, with 212 units delivered by early 2026. During the Viva Avia air festival on August 1-2, 2024, a newly built Su-34 was spotted, highlighting ongoing production despite the war in Ukraine. The aircraft has been used extensively in combat, with 43 confirmed losses since the invasion began in February 2022.