Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

Following the decommissioning of the Air Defence Anti-Tank System (ADATS) in 2011, the Canadian Army spent 13 years without any GBAD assets until receiving its first RBS 70 NG systems in 2024. While Canada is an extreme example, Ottawa was not alone in a trend that saw many downsize and even eliminate GBAD. [Canadian Army]

Assessing air defence requirements for ground formations on the modern battlefield

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The report assesses air defense requirements for ground formations on the modern battlefield, highlighting the critical need for effective air defense systems to support ground operations. It emphasizes the evolving nature of warfare and the necessity for ground units to integrate air defense capabilities to enhance their operational effectiveness.

Source: European Security & DefenceThu Jan 15 2026
A U.S. Air Force F-35 Lightning II assigned to the 6th Weapons Squadron takes off in support of a U.S. Air Force Weapons School Integration (WSINT) mission at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada, Nov. 18, 2025. WSINT incorporates multiple aircraft, domains and mission sets to challenge participants with dynamic problem-solving. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Lauren Clevenger)

Lockheed Delivered 191 F-35 Stealth Fighters in 2025—and the Program Still Has 416 Jets ‘Backlogged’

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

Lockheed Martin delivered 191 F-35 stealth fighters in 2025, while the program still has 416 jets backlogged. This highlights ongoing logistical challenges within the F-35 program.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Jan 14 2026
F-117. Image Credit: Creative Commons

‘Retired’ Air Force F-117 Nighthawk ‘Stealth Fighter’ Will Now Fly Until 2034

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The United States Air Force announced that the retired F-117 Nighthawk stealth fighter will remain operational until 2034. This decision allows the aircraft to continue flying, extending its service life significantly beyond its initial retirement date.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Jan 14 2026
An F-15EX departs for Portland Air National Guard Base. The U.S. Air Force, in partnership with Boeing and the Defense Contract Management Agency, has resumed F-15EX Eagle II deliveries to the Portland Air National Guard Base, overcoming recent production delays. (Courtesy photo)

Mach 2.5 F-15EX Eagle II Has A ‘Hot Rod’ Message for the U.S. Air Force

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Air Force has introduced the F-15EX Eagle II, capable of speeds up to Mach 2.5. This new aircraft features advanced avionics and weapon systems, aimed at enhancing operational capabilities. The introduction of the F-15EX represents a significant advancement in military aviation for the U.S. Air Force.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Jan 14 2026
U.S. Army Capt. Sabrina Dagher-Arevalo, veterinarian, left, and Sgt. Erin Loya, animal care specialist with Public Health Command-West, performs hoof care to a caisson horse during its annual exam at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston on Sept. 26, 2025. This care helps detect issues like lameness, cracks, and abscesses early on, ensuring the horse can move and perform without pain or injury. (U.S. Air Force photo by Melissa Hydrick)

The U.S. Army Still Has Horses, But Those Days Might Be Numbered

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Army continues to use horses for certain operations, although this practice may be declining. The report highlights the role of horses as military equipment within the U.S. Army, indicating a potential shift away from their use in the future.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Jan 14 2026
M1 Abrams Firing

The U.S. Army’s New M1E3 Abrams Tank Is Coming Soon (New Photos Out Now)

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Army is set to introduce the new M1E3 Abrams tank, with new photos recently released. This tank is expected to enhance the Army's armored capabilities. The introduction is anticipated to occur soon, marking a significant update to the U.S. military's equipment.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Jan 14 2026

Army says first MV-75 tilt-rotor helo to be delivered by end 2026 for testing

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Army will receive the first MV-75 tilt-rotor helicopter by the end of 2026 for testing. This new equipment is part of the Army's modernization efforts to enhance its aviation capabilities.

Source: Breaking DefenseWed Jan 14 2026
M1 Abrams Firing

The U.S. Army’s New M1E3 Abrams Tank Is Coming Soon (as in Saturday)

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Army is introducing the new M1E3 Abrams tank this upcoming Saturday. This new model represents an advancement in the Army's armored capabilities. The introduction highlights the ongoing modernization efforts within the U.S. military.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Jan 14 2026
U.S. Navy Issues $21.6M VH-92A engine evaluation order

U.S. Navy Issues $21.6M VH-92A engine evaluation order

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Navy has issued a $21.6 million order for the evaluation of VH-92A engines. This action reflects ongoing efforts to assess and enhance military aviation capabilities. The evaluation is part of the Navy's commitment to maintaining operational readiness and modernizing its fleet.

Source: Defense BlogWed Jan 14 2026
Iowa-Class USS Wisconsin. Image Credit: Creative Commons.

The U.S. Navy Will Set New Trump-Class Battleship Design Schedule Now Within 60 Days

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Navy will establish a new design schedule for the Trump-class battleship within the next 60 days. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to enhance naval capabilities and reflects a commitment to modernizing the fleet.

Source: 19FortyFiveTue Jan 13 2026
Pentagon task force to deploy AI-powered UAS systems to capture drones

Pentagon task force to deploy AI-powered UAS systems to capture drones

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The Pentagon task force is deploying AI-powered unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to capture drones. This operation is part of the U.S. Department of Defense's efforts to enhance military capabilities. Specific details about troop numbers and timing were not provided.

Source: militarytimesTue Jan 13 2026
Pentagon task force to deploy AI-powered UAS systems to capture drones

Pentagon task force to deploy AI-powered UAS systems to capture drones

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The Pentagon task force is deploying AI-powered unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to capture drones. This initiative highlights the U.S. Department of Defense's focus on integrating advanced technology into military operations. Specific details about troop numbers and timing were not provided.

Source: Defense NewsTue Jan 13 2026
M2 Bradley

Double the Range: U.S. Army Flexes More Firepower with 50mm Cannon for Future Combat Vehicle

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Army is enhancing its firepower capabilities by developing a new 50mm cannon for future combat vehicles. This initiative aims to improve the effectiveness of its armored units. The introduction of this weapon system is part of broader modernization efforts within the Army.

Source: 19FortyFiveTue Jan 13 2026

Lockheed Martin delivers 350th MH-60R helicopter to U.S. Navy

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

Lockheed Martin delivered the 350th MH-60R helicopter to the U.S. Navy. This delivery represents a significant milestone in enhancing the Navy's capabilities. The MH-60R is utilized for various missions, including anti-submarine warfare and search and rescue operations.

Source: EDR MagazineTue Jan 13 2026
Elbit Systems lands $275m contracts for EW suite in Asia-Pacific

Elbit Systems lands $275m contracts for EW suite in Asia-Pacific

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

Elbit Systems secured contracts worth $275 million for electronic warfare systems in the Asia-Pacific region. This development highlights the company's ongoing involvement in the defense sector, particularly in advanced military technology.

Source: Army TechnologyTue Jan 13 2026
U.S. Air Force awards $490M contract for new counter-drone systems

U.S. Air Force awards $490M contract for new counter-drone systems

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Air Force awarded a $490 million contract for the development of new counter-drone systems. This initiative aims to enhance the military's capabilities in drone warfare. The contract reflects ongoing efforts to address emerging threats in aerial combat.

Source: Defense BlogTue Jan 13 2026
A-12 Oxcart. Image Credit: Creative Commons.

The A-12 Oxcart Was the CIA’s Mach 3 Secret Spy Plane

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The A-12 Oxcart was a Mach 3 secret spy plane developed by the CIA during the Cold War. It was designed for reconnaissance missions and was a precursor to the SR-71 Blackbird. The aircraft significantly contributed to intelligence gathering efforts in the United States.

Source: 19FortyFiveTue Jan 13 2026
DHS adds office to fly, counter drones

DHS adds office to fly, counter drones

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has established an office to manage and counter drone operations in the United States. This initiative aims to address the growing threats posed by drones. The office will focus on enhancing national security through effective drone management.

Source: Defense OneTue Jan 13 2026
A formation of four U.S. Air Force F-15EX Eagle II fighter jets, assigned to Eglin Air Force Base, Florida, fly over the Gulf of America, Nov. 21, 2025. Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink flew in the backseat of the lead jet as part of his visit to Eglin AFB. The flight oriented Meink to F-15EX tactics, techniques and procedures being developed and advanced by the 53d Wing to include weapons capacity, next-gen survivability, and next-generation radars, sensors and networking capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Blake Wiles)

The U.S. Air Force’s F-15 Fighter Keeps Getting So Many Upgrades It Might Fly Past 2040

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Air Force is implementing continuous upgrades to its F-15 fighter aircraft, enhancing its capabilities. These upgrades are expected to keep the F-15 operational beyond 2040, focusing on improvements in avionics and weapon systems. The ongoing enhancements reflect the U.S. military's commitment to maintaining advanced air combat capabilities.

Source: 19FortyFiveMon Jan 12 2026
M1 Abrams SEPv4

The U.S. Army’s M1 Abrams Tank Is Getting So Many Upgrades It Could Roll On Until the 2050s

Weapons & EquipmentOperational

The U.S. Army is implementing significant upgrades to the M1 Abrams tank, enhancing its capabilities and extending its operational life until the 2050s. These upgrades are crucial for maintaining military readiness in the face of evolving threats.

Source: 19FortyFiveMon Jan 12 2026