Analysis & Reports

Silvus explores the development of tactical radios, threat detection, and anti-jamming capabilities to enhance the U.S. Army's communication effectiveness in contested environments.

Ethiopia received 12 Su-35 fighter jets from Russia, enhancing its military capabilities amid escalating conflict in Tigray. The Ethiopian government also announced the forthcoming delivery of S-400 air defense systems. This acquisition is seen as a strategic move to address external threats and protect critical infrastructure. Eritrea expresses concern over these developments, which could alter the regional security dynamics.

Marie DuboisThu Oct 29 2026Loading...

Counter-UAS operators are adapting to rapidly changing threats posed by smaller, more maneuverable drones and swarms. Insights were provided by James Milam from CACI regarding the challenges and responses in countering these drone threats.

Leonardo DRS raised its full-year 2026 forecast after reporting third-quarter revenue of $1.066 billion, driven by demand for tactical radars and naval systems. The company booked $1.64 billion in new orders, achieving a book-to-bill ratio of 1.5x, and its funded backlog reached a record $5.64 billion. The results reflect a successful strategy of investing ahead of demand in military technology.

Destinus has built over 1,750 Ruta cruise missiles and is producing nearly 300 units monthly, surpassing pre-war European production levels. The company is also manufacturing turbojet engines for its missiles and others. Destinus has begun production of the larger Ruta Block 2 missile, which simplifies logistics. CEO Mikhail Kokorich emphasized the need for European militaries to develop infrastructure to support increased missile inventories.

Kaliningrad's military capabilities threaten Western Europe, with Russian forces equipped with Iskander missiles and S-400 systems. The exclave's strategic position allows for potential strikes deep into Europe, necessitating urgent discussions on arms reductions and transparency measures. European leaders must address the implications of Kaliningrad in NATO planning and public messaging to mitigate risks.

U.S. Army soldiers and U.S. Air Force airmen are training on the Rapidly Deployable Small-Unmanned Air Defense System (RD-SUADS) at Grafenwoehr Training Area in Germany. This training aims to enhance responses to drone threats using the palletized counter-drone system. The RD-SUADS is designed for rapid deployment and can operate independently for four days. It integrates advanced radar and electronic warfare capabilities to engage small drones.

Finland launched the third Pohjanmaa-class corvette at Rauma on October 29, 2023. This launch marks significant progress in the construction of four new corvettes, which are set to enhance the Finnish Navy's capabilities. The corvettes will replace older vessels and are designed for extended operations in the Baltic Sea. All four ships are expected to be completed and enter service by 2029.

The U.S. Navy deployed a medium unmanned surface vessel (MUSV) for the first time with the USS Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group in October 2023. This deployment is part of the Navy's strategy to integrate unmanned systems into its operations, with plans to receive 30 MUSVs by fiscal 2027. The Navy aims to enhance its capabilities through these vessels, which are seen as force multipliers.

Pakistan is pursuing the acquisition of 40 J-35 stealth fighters from China, while simultaneously maintaining its F-16 fleet under a US upgrade deal. The US has expressed concerns over Pakistan's military ties with China, especially following Turkey's exclusion from the F-35 program due to its purchase of Russian S-400 systems. The first deliveries of the J-35 are expected by the end of 2026, although official confirmation of the deal remains unverified.

The US Army plans to replace some of its 7,300 Bradley Fighting Vehicles with the new XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle, featuring advanced technology such as a hybrid electric powerplant and an unmanned turret. Currently, two prototypes are undergoing trials at Fort Irwin, California, with a decision on the final model expected by mid-2027. The Bradley has a notable combat record, having destroyed more Iraqi tanks than the M1 Abrams during the Gulf War.

Chinese engineers proposed integrating large radar arrays into the wings of the J-20 Mighty Dragon to enhance its surveillance capabilities. This development aligns with the PLAAF's strategy to target US midair refueling aircraft, aiming to disrupt American military operations. The J-20's new capabilities could significantly augment its combat power and situational awareness, reflecting a shift in Chinese military doctrine towards more distributed radar systems.

EDGE Group conducted the first dynamic test firing of a 155mm Extended Range Full Bore (ERFB) artillery round in Lahab. This marks a significant development in artillery capabilities for the UAE.

Lockheed Martin successfully demonstrated the in-flight rerouting of a Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) rocket in collaboration with the US Army. This marks the first instance of such a capability being demonstrated, showcasing advancements in missile technology.

Firehawk raised over $150 million on October 28, 2023, to enhance production capabilities for rocket motors and propellant in Lawton, Oklahoma, and Crawford, Mississippi. The company aims to produce over 100,000 artillery motors by 2027 and has been selected by the U.S. Army to manufacture Hydra-70 rockets. The funding will support the build-out of its facilities and increase hiring for production efforts.

Switzerland is evaluating two long-range air defense systems, Barak MX and SAMP/T NG, while planning to purchase the Patriot system. The Swiss Federal Council emphasizes the need to strengthen air defense amid a deteriorating geopolitical situation. Parliament is set to review a proposal for increased defense spending, including funding for the new air defense system, expected to be finalized by early 2027.

The Ukrainian Linza bomber drone operated alongside various unmanned systems during the Forward Edge 26 exercise in Germany, successfully attacking simulated enemy drones to facilitate the movement of unmanned ground vehicles. The exercise, which concluded on October 22, 2023, involved multiple international participants and showcased advanced drone capabilities under adverse weather conditions.

Teledyne FLIR Defense was awarded a $48 million contract to upgrade 10 Bulgarian Stryker vehicles with advanced CBRN reconnaissance capabilities. The contract, announced on October 26, 2023, will enhance Bulgaria's military capabilities and is part of a broader effort to modernize its fleet. The upgrades will include a sensor suite and a drone for biological detection, with work expected to continue until 2028.

Switzerland's government has selected Israel’s Barak MX and the French-Italian SAMP/T NG as finalists for a second long-range air defense system, while maintaining its order for five Patriot systems. The decision follows an evaluation of offers from multiple manufacturers and aims to enhance Switzerland's air defense capabilities against long-distance threats. The Swiss Parliament is expected to discuss additional funding for these systems in 2026.

Ukraine reported the loss of 1,543 Russian operational-tactical drones on October 27, 2026, highlighting significant challenges for NATO's air defense. The Ukrainian Ministry of Defence noted additional losses of artillery systems, vehicles, and cruise missiles. NATO is actively assessing these developments to improve its preparedness against similar threats in the future.

Alexandra ReevesThu Oct 29 2026Loading...