Analysis & Reports

Paramount unveiled the Mbada 4×4 light armoured modular vehicle in Pretoria on September 17, 2026, at the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition. The vehicle is designed for adaptability across multiple military missions, featuring significant protection and mobility capabilities. It is engineered to meet the evolving operational requirements of modern armed forces, with a focus on lightweight and agile performance.

On September 18, 2026, Russian air defense intercepted 629 Ukrainian drones over Southern Russia. Concurrently, Ukrainian strikes led to the disruption of operations at the Syzran and Saratov oil refineries. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported the destruction of Ukrainian radar and electronic warfare systems, highlighting the ongoing military engagement and the shift towards a war of attrition targeting economic infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovFri Sep 18 2026Loading...

Perseus Defense tested a low-cost Mk-III interceptor missile at Yuma Proving Ground as part of a counter-drone experiment involving U.S. Northern Command and NORAD. The missile, costing around $2,500, is designed to physically strike drones, demonstrating a kinetic hit-to-kill approach. This testing is part of ongoing efforts to improve U.S. military capabilities against drone incursions, following incidents that exposed vulnerabilities in base defenses.

Oy Sisu Auto Ab and Rumble Tools Oy launched a partnership on September 18, 2026, to integrate intelligent robotics into heavy tactical vehicles in Finland. This collaboration aims to enhance battlefield capabilities through the development of the SISU G-Series product family, incorporating autonomous technologies and robotic helicopters for improved force protection and situational awareness.

Russia will showcase advanced drones and loitering munitions at the 2026 Africa Aerospace and Defence Exhibition in Centurion, South Africa, which opened on September 16, 2023. The exhibition features 287 companies from 33 countries, with a focus on unmanned systems and military innovations. Notable equipment includes the Orlan-E drone, SKAT 350M reconnaissance drone, and RPG-29M anti-tank rocket launcher. The event will conclude on September 20, 2023.

U.S. Army tested tethered unmanned aircraft systems (Te-UAS) at Fort Benning from July 27 to August 7 to enhance infantry unit capabilities. The drones, connected to ground vehicles, were evaluated for their ability to operate without battery limitations and improve communication in challenging terrains. The Maneuver Battle Lab is compiling feedback and performance data for future program decisions.

U.S. Marines tested the Mobile All-Domain Observation and Sensing System (MA-DOSS) at Twentynine Palms, California, on August 19, successfully detecting a vehicle that entered a live-fire training area. The system, which combines radar and AI technology, alerts operators to potential threats, allowing for uninterrupted training. This demonstration supports further investment in MA-DOSS as a replacement for the older G-BOSS system.

MSI-Defence Systems unveiled the TERRAHAWK RAPTOR remote weapon station at the DVD 2026 exhibition in Millbrook. This system is specifically designed for counter-drone operations and can be equipped with various weaponry, including machine guns and grenade launchers. It integrates with command-and-control systems to enhance air defense capabilities, responding to increased demand for specialized counter-drone systems across multiple markets.

Hanwha Aerospace and General Atomics demonstrated the Mojave drone's capabilities at the 2026 Defense Drone Technology Exhibition in Pocheon, South Korea. The drone successfully took off and landed on a tank maneuver route, showcasing its ability to operate from short, unimproved sites. Hanwha plans to establish production facilities in South Korea, with the first flight of the production version expected in early 2027.

IDV is introducing the latest generation of its VIKING Uncrewed Ground Vehicle (UGV) at DVD 2026 in Millbrook, Bedfordshire on 17 September 2026.

Japan plans to acquire approximately 52,000 unmanned systems, including 10,000 attack drones and 1,300 anti-ship drones, from 2027 to 2031. The defense budget is projected to nearly double, exceeding 9 trillion yen, to enhance its offensive capabilities with long-range missiles. This marks a significant shift in Japan's military posture towards more aggressive defense strategies.

China is expanding its naval capabilities, particularly in submarines and aircraft carriers, as a challenge to the U.S. in the South China Sea. By 2025, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) has 787 ships and 384,000 active personnel. The Bohai shipyard is undergoing expansion to support increased submarine production, with significant investments in nuclear submarine programs. China aims to field nine aircraft carriers by 2035, with the Type-003 Fujian already commissioned.

U.S. Air Force planners are exploring the future of their tanker fleet, considering unmanned and optionally manned options for air refueling capabilities. Lt. Gen. Daniel Tulley indicated that advancements in technology, influenced by the Navy's MQ-25 Stingray, suggest that future air-refueling solutions may not require manned aircraft. The Air Force is currently purchasing KC-46 Pegasus tankers while also seeking funding for advanced tanker systems.

HMS Astute is undergoing its first midlife refit at Devonport, rendering it out of action indefinitely. This refit is part of the Royal Navy's efforts to maintain its submarine fleet capabilities amid ongoing defense commitments. The Royal Navy currently operates five Astute-class submarines, with plans for future replacements under the SSN-AUKUS program.

The U.S. Army awarded Sikorsky an additional $234 million for 16 Black Hawk UH-60 helicopters, increasing the total contract value to $356 million. Initial deliveries are scheduled for fiscal 2028, with potential for up to 150 helicopters over the next few years. The contract is undefinitized, allowing for flexibility in production and funding.

The U.S. State Department approved the sale of 48 F-35A fighter jets to Saudi Arabia on September 17, 2026, valued at $24.3 billion. This deal includes engines, secure communications, and maintenance support, marking Saudi Arabia as the second Middle Eastern country authorized to operate F-35s. The approval follows extensive discussions and concerns regarding regional military balance and technology security.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit bombers to enhance fleet readiness and prepare pilots for the upcoming B-21 Raider. This decision was made during the 2026 Air, Space & Cyber Conference, where it was noted that the B-21 is set for delivery to Ellsworth Air Force Base in 2027. The Air Force is also implementing the North Star Readiness Campaign to improve the operational capability of its bomber fleet.

In March 2023, the Israeli Air Force destroyed several Iranian F-14 Tomcats at Isfahan in Central Iran. These aircraft, originally sold to Iran in 1976, were believed to be the last operational F-14s globally. The U.S. had previously dismantled its own F-14s to prevent parts from reaching Iran.

Northrop Grumman is expanding its market share in munitions supply, engaging in discussions about eight weapons programs. Lockheed Martin is also involved in munitions production agreements and is seeking full funding from Congress. Both companies are adapting to the Pentagon's focus on increasing munitions production and have ongoing projects like the PAC-3 missile and GRIZZLY launch system.

The U.S. Army is prioritizing training for soldiers to operate drones effectively in contested electromagnetic environments as part of the Drone Dominance program. With 12,080 drones acquired, the focus is on ensuring every squad is equipped and trained by the end of fiscal 2026. Recent exercises in Germany highlighted the need for soldiers to navigate the electromagnetic spectrum effectively.