Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Concurrent attacks across multiple domains force rethinking of air-and-missile-defense
U.S. air-and-missile-defense systems are adapting to new threats posed by Iran's drone and missile capabilities in the Middle East. The systems have performed well in recent conflicts but face challenges due to high costs and the need for rapid adaptation. Experts emphasize the importance of increasing industrial capacity to meet these evolving threats and ensure effective defense against low-cost drone swarms and high-speed missiles.
100,000-Ton US Navy Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R. Ford Deployed for 326 Days, a Post-Cold War Record. USS Abraham Lincoln Went 264 Days Without a Port Visit. A Normal Carrier Deployment Runs About 7 Months.
On February 28, 2026, Iran struck Naval Support Activity Bahrain with missiles and drones, prompting the U.S. Navy to relocate its logistics operations to Diego Garcia. USS Gerald R. Ford was deployed for a record 326 days, while USS Abraham Lincoln spent 264 days without a port visit. The Navy is preparing USS Theodore Roosevelt for deployment, implementing lessons learned from previous deployments to address logistical challenges and improve sailor conditions.
The Government Accountability Office Reviewed All 13 Programs in the US Air Force’s $21,000,000,000 B-52 Modernization and Found 10 of Them in Trouble. The Engine Replacement Went From $3,000,000,000 to $15,400,000,000.
The U.S. Air Force's B-52 modernization effort, involving 13 programs, faces significant challenges, with 10 programs over budget or delayed. The Commercial Engine Replacement Program's costs surged from $3 billion to $15.4 billion, while the radar modernization program's costs increased from $2.3 billion to $2.9 billion. A recent crash of a test aircraft has added to the program's complications. The B-52 is set to remain operational into the mid-21st century.
American and Iranian Attacks on Oil Tankers Expand the Hormuz War and Reveal the Failure of Gulf Deterrence
On September 9, 2026, the U.S. military destroyed five Iranian oil tankers in response to Iranian attacks on U.S. ships and a base in Jordan. This escalation in the Hormuz Strait signifies a shift from limited confrontations to direct assaults on commercial shipping. The situation raises concerns for Gulf states, as the conflict threatens their maritime trade and security.
S.WThu Sep 10 2026Loading...
Defense startup’s AI aims to make every munition count
Smack Technologies is developing AI software, Omega, to enhance military operations by optimizing munitions usage and planning. The software allows commanders to generate detailed workflows and plans quickly, improving decision-making in real-time. Smack has secured contracts with three U.S. military branches and plans to expand its offerings to all six branches by the end of the year, addressing both military and humanitarian needs.
Israeli attack drone maker hits a big production milestone
SpearUAV announced it has nearly 1,000 Viper 300 loitering munition systems ready for delivery to customers worldwide. The Viper 300 is designed for infantry and armored units, allowing for close-in engagements. The company has reached a production rate of hundreds of systems per month and disclosed a $20 million contract for the system in December 2024, with expected deliveries starting in 2025.
Washington agrees to 60 AGT-1500 engines and $188 million for Omani F-16 maintenance
Washington approved the sale of 60 AGT-1500 engines for Saudi M1 Abrams tanks and 188 million dollars for F-16 maintenance services for Oman on September 4, 2026. Additionally, Iraq will receive 150 million dollars for Bell 412EPX helicopters. These agreements highlight the ongoing military support and logistical needs of U.S. partners in the Middle East.
Ahmed Al-RashidSat Sep 05 2026Loading...U.S. approves $750M tank engine sale to Saudi Arabia
The U.S. State Department approved a $750 million sale of 60 AGT-1500 tank engines to Saudi Arabia on September 4. This deal aims to sustain the existing fleet of M1 Abrams tanks rather than fund new purchases. Honeywell will be the sole contractor for this transaction, which does not necessitate additional U.S. personnel in Saudi Arabia.
U.S. Warships in the Middle East Face Logistics Nightmare
USS Abraham Lincoln docked in Thailand on September 2, 2023, allowing approximately 5,000 crew members to rest after nearly 9 months at sea. The U.S. Navy faces significant logistical challenges in the Middle East, including the destruction of a key supply base and the need for extensive resupply operations over long distances. Currently, two aircraft carriers and twelve destroyers are involved in operations in the region.
US Navy Nuclear Attack Submarines Spent 41 Years Idle at the Pier in a Decade. The Navy Paid $230,000 a Day for It.
U.S. Navy attack submarines have spent over 41 ship-years idle at piers, costing approximately $3.3 billion for Los Angeles-class and $835 million for Virginia-class boats. The USS Pasadena is in inactive status and cannot operate, with 15 more submarines expected to follow suit by 2030. The Government Accountability Office warns of an additional 14,000 idle days and $3.1 billion in costs unless alternatives for decommissioning are explored.
The Iranian army strikes Ahmed Al-Jaber base in Kuwait and Al-Minhad in the UAE with missiles and drones on the 189th day of the war.
The Iranian military struck the Ahmad Al-Jaber Air Base in Kuwait and the Al-Minhad Air Base in the UAE on September 3, 2023, in retaliation for recent U.S. strikes. The attacks involved missiles and drones, with Kuwaiti air defenses intercepting some of the incoming threats. This incident marks a significant escalation, as it is the first direct Iranian attack on Gulf states hosting U.S. forces during the ongoing conflict.
Ahmed Al-RashidFri Sep 04 2026Loading...
US to seek back payment from Europe for Ukraine aid, Trump says
U.S. President Donald Trump announced plans to seek reimbursement from European nations for military aid provided to Ukraine. He indicated a potential halt in sales to allied nations while ramping up U.S. munitions production. Concerns were raised about depleted U.S. munitions stockpiles due to the ongoing conflict in Iran, which has implications for military readiness.
Iran strike leaves U.S. Navy with a serious supply problem
Iran struck the U.S. Navy's logistics hub in Bahrain on February 28, 2023, forcing the Navy to resupply at sea every five to six days. Currently, about 20 ships and 20,000 personnel are deployed in the Middle East, with supply ships traveling 2,200 miles to Diego Garcia for essential supplies. This situation presents significant logistical challenges for the Navy's operations in the region.
The US Navy Has 11 100,000-ton Nuclear Aircraft Carriers and Can Usually Deploy 4. Only 1 Shipyard in America Can Build or Fix Them.
The U.S. Navy is experiencing a significant shipbuilding crisis, with only one shipyard in Virginia capable of constructing and maintaining its aircraft carriers. As of July 14, 2024, only 4 out of 11 carriers are available for deployment due to long maintenance cycles. The Navy's logistical challenges are compounded by an inadequate workforce and supply chain issues, hindering its operational readiness in the Middle East.
U.S. Media: Multiple Aircraft Carriers Unable to Restore Combat Capability for Years
Multiple U.S. aircraft carriers are undergoing long-term repairs and will not be combat-ready for several years. The USS George Washington has been redeployed to the Middle East to replace the USS Abraham Lincoln, leaving the Western Pacific temporarily without U.S. carrier presence. The U.S. Navy currently has 11 aircraft carriers, with 4 deployed, while the USS Gerald R. Ford is also in repair after significant operational wear.
The Royal Navy Spent 8 Years Repairing Destroyer HMS Daring. When the Work Was Done She Still Could Not Sail, Because the Navy Was Didn’t Have Trained Sailors
HMS Daring underwent extensive repairs in Portsmouth from 2017 to 2023 due to propulsion issues and a lack of trained personnel. The Royal Navy faced significant logistical challenges, resulting in the destroyer being out of service for eight years. Despite the completion of repairs, Daring could not return to active duty until a new crew was trained. The Royal Navy's operational readiness has been severely impacted by mechanical issues and manpower shortages.
The Royal Navy Spent 8 Years Repairing Destroyer HMS Daring. When the Work Was Done She Still Could Not Sail, Because the Navy Didn’t Have Trained Sailors
HMS Daring underwent extensive repairs in Portsmouth from 2017 to 2023 due to propulsion issues and a lack of trained crew. The Royal Navy faced significant manpower shortages, leading to the deactivation of smaller vessels to prioritize larger ships. Despite the completion of repairs, Daring remained inactive until recently when a new crew was trained, allowing her to prepare for rejoining the fleet.
U.S. Military High Command Collective Statement: We Can't Fight Anymore, We Can't Fight Anymore!
U.S. military officials conducted airstrikes on Iranian Revolutionary Guard positions on Larak Island on August 30, 2023. Concerns were raised about the sustainability of ongoing military operations against Iran due to significant resource depletion and ammunition shortages. The Pentagon indicated that the U.S. Navy's missile inventory is critically low, impacting future operational capabilities.
"130 UAVs in One Night and Strikes on Yeisk and Kirishi Change the Russian Rear in 2026"
Ukrainian forces conducted airstrikes on August 30, 2026, targeting Russian military infrastructure in Yeysk, Millerovo, and Kirish. The attacks involved 130 drones and 2 ballistic missiles, aiming to disrupt Russian logistics and military operations. Key assets, including radar systems and ammunition depots, were hit, reflecting a strategic shift in Ukraine's approach to the conflict.
Dmitri VolkovMon Aug 31 2026Loading...
The US Navy Says the Hormuz Mine Routes Are Now Clear. It Took 4.5 Months, and China Holds 100,000 More
U.S. Navy divers and SEALs cleared Iranian sea mines from the transit routes of the Strait of Hormuz over a period of four and a half months. Admiral Brad Cooper announced the successful operation, which involved U.S. Marines and underwater drones. Despite the clearance, concerns remain about the presence of mines, as Iran's deputy foreign minister stated that only Iran knows their exact locations.
