Analysis & Reports

Estonian firms Threod Systems, Krattworks, and Electrical Wings conducted UAS live flying demonstrations outside Tallinn. The event showcased the latest unmanned aerial systems technology, although specific details about the demonstrations were not provided.

On the 22nd, a Ukrainian drone attacked a radiation monitoring station approximately 13 kilometers from the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, causing damage. The monitoring station is part of the plant's radiation monitoring system, but current capabilities remain intact, and no immediate radiation threat has been identified. However, the damage may affect the ability to quickly gather radiation data in emergencies.

The U.S. Department of Defense is working to establish control over missile defense programs through the Golden Dome initiative, initiated by President Trump in February 2025. This initiative aims to protect U.S. citizens from aerial attacks but currently lacks authority over key defense systems. The report highlights the necessity for centralized control and authority to ensure the effectiveness of the Golden Dome initiative.

The North Sea Fleet of the People's Liberation Army Navy conducted a public open day for its naval vessels, the 052D destroyer Kaifeng and the 054A frigate Linyi, in Qingdao on October 22. This event allowed visitors to tour the ships and engage with naval personnel, promoting national defense education and military awareness.

Ukrainian Special Operations Forces conducted an airstrike on the Samara oil refinery in Russia on September 22, using multiple drones. The operation was coordinated with the Ukrainian Security Service and the Ministry of Defense. This refinery is one of the largest in the region, with a capacity of 7 million tons of oil per year, and has been targeted multiple times by Ukrainian forces.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is refueling Saudi jets in the Red Sea to bolster their defensive operations against Houthi attacks as of September 21, 2026. This time-limited mission aims to enhance Saudi air defense capabilities amid a renewed Houthi campaign threatening military sites and energy infrastructure. The operation utilizes an Airbus A330 MRTT Voyager to extend the operational range of Saudi fighters.

Alexandra ReevesTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

Ukrainian forces conducted airstrikes on two significant oil facilities in Ufa and Samara Oblast, Russia, between September 21 and 22, 2023, resulting in fires and civilian casualties. The strikes led to one death and four injuries, as reported by local authorities. Both facilities are key components of Russia's oil infrastructure.

The Eastern Theater Command Air Force conducted joint training exercises with reserve units at an unspecified airbase, focusing on aircraft maintenance and operational readiness. Personnel engaged in simulated combat scenarios, enhancing their tactical skills. The training validated the effectiveness of the mixed active-reserve operational model.

Ursula von der Leyen proposed the establishment of a European Security Council on September 16, 2026, aimed at enhancing Europe's response to security threats, including increased Russian aggression. The proposal seeks to involve EU member states, Ukraine, and Canada, emphasizing the need for improved military capabilities and cooperation. The report warns that without concrete actions, the initiative may merely serve as a symbolic gesture rather than a functional military strategy.

Dr. Klaus WeberTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

The UK government announced the successful test-firing of a torpedo from the 'Swordfish' unmanned submersible in UK waters on the 21st. This event marks a significant advancement in submarine technology and is part of the AUKUS defense cooperation with the US and Australia, which was established in September 2021.

On September 10, 2026, JNIM launched an attack on a Malian army position in Dioura, resulting in over 100 soldiers killed. JNIM claimed to have killed 150 soldiers and captured 93. The attack underscores the vulnerability of isolated military positions in central Mali and raises questions about the effectiveness of Malian forces and their Russian allies in maintaining control.

Marie DuboisTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) is increasing its defense production capacity in Poland, aiming to produce 150,000 155 mm artillery shells annually by late 2027. The group has signed contracts worth 15 billion euros for various military vehicles and is actively seeking international partnerships for ammunition production. Poland's defense spending is nearing 5% of its GDP, with significant funding from the SAFE program.

Paramount unveiled the V-Raven unmanned aircraft at the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition in South Africa on September 19, 2023. The V-Raven features vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, allowing it to operate from remote locations. It comes in petrol and electric versions, with the petrol version capable of flying for up to eight hours. An armed variant with precision-guided munitions is also in development.

Alkeon has entered a strategic collaboration with Leonardo to enhance Denmark's defense industrial capabilities, focusing on local production of the 76/62 mm Super Rapid Gun Mount. This partnership aims to strengthen the defense industrial base in Denmark and is expected to create new skilled jobs and increase participation in defense programs. The agreement reflects a commitment to building long-term defense production capacity in the country.

Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH completed the Factory Acceptance Test for the Heavy Infantry Weapon Carrier training equipment at its Bremen site in June 2026. This milestone allows for crew training to commence alongside vehicle deliveries, with five AGSW systems expected to be handed over by mid-2027. The training solution includes a realistic gunnery and combat simulator, facilitating joint training for vehicle crews and dismounted infantry.

The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin $200 million in September 2023 to upgrade M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System launchers to the M270A2 standard. This modernization includes new engines and armored cabs, allowing the launchers to fire precision munitions. The Army aims to maintain the M270 fleet in service through 2050, with ongoing contracts for upgrades since 2019.

Terma signed a contract with Cornes Technologies in Japan to promote and supply the C-Guard MK II Decoy Launching System for new naval vessels. This system offers flexible soft-kill capabilities against missile and torpedo threats and can operate independently or within a vessel’s combat management system. The collaboration aims to enhance naval self-protection in the Asia Pacific region.

The Chinese Navy's 48th escort fleet concluded its visit to Chittagong, Bangladesh, on September 21, 2026, and is scheduled to participate in the ASEAN Trident Resolve exercise in Indonesia from September 22 to 25. This exercise will focus on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, testing multinational coordination capabilities. During the visit, the fleet engaged in professional exchanges with Bangladeshi military leaders.

Li MinghuiTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army engaged and defeated three hostile drones using a Multi-Purpose High Energy Laser system on the U.S. southern border on August 25 and 26. This operation was conducted by the Joint Task Force Southern Border, which includes around 8,000 service members. The Army has linked these drone incursions to cartel surveillance activities.

Russia is transitioning to underground production of Geran drones at the Alabuga facility, aiming to increase output by 28,000 units by 2029. This expansion is a response to Ukraine's capability to strike Russian targets and involves significant enhancements in drone technology and production methods. The initiative reflects a strategic shift in Russia's military capabilities, focusing on sustaining drone warfare over time.

Dmitri VolkovTue Sep 22 2026Loading...