Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Cost estimate for Iran war rises to more than $47 billion
The U.S. military has reported a 25% increase in spending on the war in Iran, raising the total cost estimate to over $47 billion. This information is based on Pentagon data obtained by Reuters, reflecting ongoing financial commitments in the region.
US costs of Iran war rise to over $47 billion, according to Pentagon estimate
The U.S. military has spent over $47 billion on the war in Iran, exceeding previous estimates by over 25%. This includes projected costs of more than $29 billion for munitions and over $6 billion for military equipment losses. The rising costs are impacting political support for Republican candidates ahead of the upcoming elections. Pentagon officials are preparing to potentially restart heavy fighting after the midterm elections.
The port-call situation is wearing out Navy warships
U.S. Navy warships are currently deployed for extended periods of 10 to 12 months due to Operation Epic Fury, primarily using Diego Garcia for port calls. This situation has led to significant maintenance challenges, affecting the readiness of the fleet. Sailors report shortages of supplies and delays in mail, impacting their morale and operational effectiveness.
The United States escorts 3,000 ships through Hormuz in 2026 and reveals the Gulf's reliance on American maritime deterrence.
U.S. Central Command reported that over 3000 commercial vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz with U.S. support in the past six months, facilitating the export of 1.5 billion barrels of oil from Gulf countries. Despite 95% of vessels passing safely, ongoing risks from Iranian threats keep oil prices elevated. Gulf states continue to depend on U.S. military capabilities for maritime security and operational coordination.
Ahmed Al-RashidMon Oct 26 2026Loading...
Saudi Arabia Expands Ballistic Missile Production in 2026 Reshaping Gulf Deterrence
Saudi Arabia is expanding its ballistic missile production capabilities at the Dawadmi facility, as revealed by satellite imagery on October 23, 2026. The new infrastructure is expected to enhance the production of solid-fuel rocket engines, allowing for missiles with heavier payloads and longer ranges. This development is viewed as a strategic response to regional threats, particularly from Iran, and reflects a shift towards greater military self-sufficiency.
Ahmed Al-RashidMon Oct 26 2026Loading...Saudi Arabia intercepts a Houthi ballistic missile over Riyadh and tests Gulf defense in 2026
Saudi Arabia intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile targeting Riyadh on October 25, 2026, following the interception of two other missiles aimed at Mecca and Medina. Concurrently, Aden International Airport faced missile attacks, with ongoing military operations reported in Taiz. The conflict is intensifying, requiring Saudi Arabia to allocate resources for city defense and protection of critical infrastructure.
Ahmed Al-RashidSun Oct 25 2026Loading...The U.S. Navy's USS George Washington Reloads and Embassy Evacuation Reveals Window for Striking Iran
USS George Washington is being resupplied with ammunition in the Persian Gulf as U.S. personnel are evacuated from certain Middle Eastern locations due to threats from Iran. U.S. intelligence warns that Iran is in the late planning stages for attacks on U.S. personnel. Conflicting reports suggest potential military action could occur soon or after the U.S.-Israel elections, indicating a complex and evolving situation.
Ahmed Al-RashidSat Oct 24 2026Loading...
The US Military Is Increasing Combat Pay As the War with Iran Continues But There’s a Catch
The U.S. Military announced an increase in hostile fire pay to $450 and imminent danger pay to $275 for troops engaged in the Iran War as of July 14, 2026. However, troops cannot receive both payments in the same month, and hardship duty pay was reduced. These changes are seen as a response to concerns about recruitment amid ongoing military operations.
Saudi missile plant expansion may produce more powerful missiles, study says
Saudi Arabia is expanding its ballistic missile factory in al-Duwadimi to produce larger solid-fuel missiles capable of longer ranges and heavier payloads. This expansion, observed through satellite imagery, began in April 2025 and may enhance Saudi military capabilities against Iran and Houthi forces. The development could also affect U.S.-Saudi relations concerning nuclear agreements.
EDGE reaches full-rate production on automated 40mm ammunition line
EDGE reached full-rate production of the automated 40x53mm grenade ammunition line in Abu Dhabi on 22 October 2026. The line can produce up to 1.5 million rounds annually and operates fully automated, enhancing efficiency and reducing manual labor. This initiative is part of EDGE's commitment to Industry 4.0 standards, aiming to improve manufacturing processes across its facilities.
► EDGE advances AL DORRA programme for Kuwait Naval Force with three major shipbuilding milestones
EDGE achieved three significant milestones in the AL DORRA programme for the Kuwait Naval Force on 22 October 2026, with the keel laying of the third vessel and the steel cutting of the fourth and fifth vessels in Singapore. This programme involves the construction of eight 62-metre missile boats, enhancing Kuwait's naval capabilities and reinforcing the strategic partnership between the UAE and Kuwait.
Pentagon extends Raytheon deal for missile defense radars
The Missile Defense Agency extended Raytheon's contract for the AN/TPY-2 missile defense radars by $394 million, raising the total contract value to nearly $3 billion. This extension allows Raytheon to continue operating and maintaining the radars until October 31, 2028, supporting eight THAAD batteries across various locations, including Fort Bliss and South Korea. The radars have faced damage during the ongoing conflict with Iran.
British Typhoons in Saudi Arabia Turn Europe's Air Defense 2026 into a Gulf Problem
The UK Defence Minister authorized the deployment of RAF Typhoons to Saudi Arabia on October 20, 2026, for defensive counter-air missions against drone and missile threats. The operation includes logistical support and military advisors, but excludes offensive actions against Houthi forces. The number of aircraft and their base location are undisclosed, highlighting the political sensitivity of the mission regarding European air defense capabilities.
Dr. Klaus WeberWed Oct 21 2026Loading...Pentagon weighs force posture, costs of rebuilding Middle East bases
Pentagon leaders are currently assessing damage to US bases in the Middle East and considering changes to force posture. Bases such as Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar have been targeted by Iran and its proxies, leading to operational challenges. The US Navy has indicated that Naval Support Activity Bahrain will not be utilized soon, and the Pentagon is prioritizing strategic investments for base repairs and resilience against drone and missile threats.
Russia’s naval posture in the Mediterranean has ‘significantly decreased’: NATO official
The Russian Navy experienced a significant decrease in its presence in the Mediterranean earlier this year, with no major vessels operating for several weeks. This absence is attributed to logistical challenges, including the loss of access to the Tartus port in Syria and the need to prioritize escorting merchant vessels. NATO officials noted that while Russian vessels returned to the Mediterranean, the overall state of the Russian Navy is in decline due to operational constraints and the ongoing war in Ukraine.
British Typhoon Fighters Protect Saudi Arabia in 2026 and Reveal the Limits of Gulf Air Independence
British Typhoon fighters are set to conduct air missions to defend Saudi Arabia against Houthi attacks starting October 20, 2026. This deployment underscores Saudi Arabia's ongoing reliance on external military support despite significant investments in its own defense capabilities. The UK also provided a Voyager aircraft for aerial refueling, enhancing operational sustainability. Additionally, the UAE is resuming financial support for southern Yemeni forces, indicating a complex regional military dynamic.
Ahmed Al-RashidTue Oct 20 2026Loading...
A shifting landscape: Where the US Army moved in 2026 and what may be on the horizon
The U.S. Army restructured its forces in 2026, establishing a new Western Hemisphere Command at Fort Bragg and deploying 5,000 troops to Poland. Troops withdrew from Iraq and Syria, while the Army extended deployments in the Indo-Pacific and launched a new multi-domain command. Additionally, the Marine Corps is enhancing its presence in Alaska for extreme cold-weather operations.
America and Iran 2026: Trump Signals MOAB and Tehran Expands Gulf and Hormuz Strikes
Trump indicated the U.S. could target the Beikaks facility near Isfahan, while Iran escalated strikes on maritime targets in the Strait of Hormuz. Reports suggest 12 vessels were targeted in a week, marking the highest activity since the conflict began. The situation has led to increased oil prices and heightened risks for maritime navigation in the Gulf.
Ahmed Al-RashidFri Oct 16 2026Loading...
MKE shows its 76 mm naval guns integration facility and confirms ongoing work on a 127 mm gun
MKE is integrating the 76/62 mm National Naval Artillery Gun at its facility in Ankara while developing a new 127 mm gun for the TF-2000 air defense destroyer. The company has secured export contracts for the Denizhan-76 with Indonesia and Romania, with production of 76 mm ammunition expected to begin in early 2027. The Denizhan-127 prototype is nearing completion.
Turkish Aerospace expands Anka 3 production with new line for upgraded drone
Turkish Aerospace completed construction of a second production line for the Anka 3 unmanned combat aerial vehicle in Ankara, set to open in November 2023. This new line will produce an upgraded variant with a payload capacity of 1.75 tons, allowing for increased munitions. The Turkish armed forces have ordered 80 Anka 3 UCAVs, with the first delivery expected in 2027.
