Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy is developing a new class of frigates (FF(X)) and is considering building two ships overseas based on existing designs from Japan, South Korea, and Turkey. The first FF(X) is expected to be operational by 2028, following the termination of the Constellation-class program. This initiative aims to enhance naval capabilities rapidly and cost-effectively.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps struck a Togo-flagged oil tanker in the Strait of Hormuz on September 18, 2023, amid claims of an illegal crossing. Traffic through the strait remains critically low, with only four vessels transiting on September 17. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are increasingly relying on alternative oil export routes due to the ongoing conflict, while Houthi forces threaten oil supply routes in the region.

The Royal Navy built and operated 27 Oberon-class diesel-electric submarines from the early 1960s to the 2000s, primarily in the North Atlantic and Norwegian Sea. These submarines were designed for anti-submarine warfare, surveillance, and intelligence collection, known for their stealth and acoustic isolation. They featured advanced sonar systems and were equipped with 21-inch torpedo tubes, with some units later upgraded to carry MK 48 heavyweight torpedoes.

The U.S. government approved the sale of 48 F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia for $24.3 billion on September 17, 2023. This deal includes Pratt & Whitney engines and various support systems, aimed at enhancing Saudi defense capabilities amid regional threats. Congress has 30 days to review the sale, with some lawmakers expressing concerns about its implications for U.S.-China relations.

The U.S. military redirected MQ-9 Reaper drones from Africa to Latin America to expand operations against drug cartels. This shift includes joint operations with local forces in Ecuador and increased military financing to Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Panama. The U.S. aims to combat narcoterrorism as part of the Shield of the Americas initiative.

Saudi air defense forces intercepted a ballistic missile launched by Houthi forces towards Riyadh on September 19, 2023. The Houthi forces have been escalating their attacks, targeting civilians and infrastructure in Riyadh and other Saudi cities, including Bisha, Taif, Farasan, and Yanbu. Explosions were reported in Riyadh, marking a significant increase in hostilities.

Turkey's Foreign Minister announced on September 19 that Turkey may provide military technical assistance to Saudi Arabia in response to recent attacks. He reaffirmed Turkey's commitment to the Mecca Joint Defense Agreement, which aims to enhance collective deterrence against aggression. The Minister condemned the attacks on Saudi oil infrastructure and emphasized the agreement's significance for regional security.

Turkey's Foreign Minister stated that Turkey does not accept Saudi Arabia's involvement in the current U.S.-Iran conflict and highlighted the seriousness of recent attacks on Saudi territory. He mentioned that Turkey is closely monitoring the situation in Saudi Arabia as part of a defense mechanism with Saudi Arabia and Pakistan, and is willing to assist with any military needs.

Houthi forces launched two military operations on September 19, targeting sensitive sites in Riyadh and Aramco facilities in Yanbu, Saudi Arabia. The operations involved the use of ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, and were described as a response to ongoing Saudi airstrikes. Houthi spokesperson Yahya Saree stated that these actions were successful.

Russia demands Japan withdraw the U.S. 'Tomahawk' missile system deployed in Japan, citing threats to national security. Despite multiple protests from Russia, Japan continues to maintain the deployment. Russian officials emphasize that any deployment of such weapons is unacceptable and poses a direct threat to Russia's security interests.

Explosions and air raid alerts occurred in Riyadh on March 19, 2023, marking the first such incidents amid escalating conflict with Houthi forces. The Saudi Civil Defense issued two alerts, and smoke was reported near King Khalid International Airport. Houthi forces claimed to have thwarted Saudi operations in Yemen and threatened further retaliation.

The U.S. military is preparing for potential combat operations in space and on the Moon, as stated by Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Dan Caine. Space Force has deployed weapons into orbit, marking a significant development in U.S. military capabilities. Discussions are ongoing regarding both kinetic and non-kinetic weapon systems to address potential conflicts in space.

Anduril Industries reported that delays in U.S. arms sales to Taiwan are impacting its operations and the overall deterrence strategy against China. The company highlighted that political approval delays hinder the timely delivery of critical military equipment, such as the Altius-600M loitering munition. This situation raises concerns about Taiwan's defense capabilities in the face of increasing pressure from the People's Liberation Army.

Marcus ChenSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

The Fédération Aéronautique Internationale (FAI) commemorated the SR-71A's speed record of 2,193.167 mph, which remains unmatched, during the 'Blackbird Days' event in Warner Robins, Georgia, from September 24-26, 2026. Visitors can view the cockpit of the aircraft 61-7958, which was flown by Joersz and Morgan in 1976. The FAI emphasized the significance of this record in military aviation history.

An explosion at a Syrian military site on September 19, 2026, resulted in eleven deaths, with the cause still unconfirmed. The Syrian Ministry of Defense acknowledged the fatalities, but details regarding the nature of the explosion remain unclear, raising concerns about the military's operational control and safety protocols. The incident highlights significant weaknesses in the management of military resources and the potential for regional instability.

Alexandra ReevesSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

The Royal Navy developed the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers to replace the retiring Invincible-class and enhance its global airpower projection capabilities. The design shifted to accommodate the F-35B stealth fighter, leading to increased costs. Despite being operationally capable, the carriers have faced construction quality issues and costly repairs.

The Royal Malaysian Navy launched the third LMS Batch 2 corvette, TUNKU OSMAN JEWA, at Istanbul Shipyard on 9 August 2026. This event completes the launch phase of all three corvettes in the program, which will be equipped with HAVELSAN’s ADVENT Combat Management System. The program will now proceed to system integration and testing, involving outfitting and acceptance trials for the new vessels.

The British Army is set to receive the Challenger 3 main battle tank, featuring a NATO-standard 120mm gun, but will only have 148 units, raising concerns about operational capacity. Testing is ongoing, including a new facility to assess vibration issues critical for crew comfort. Critics emphasize that the limited number of tanks may hinder the Army's ability to absorb losses in high-intensity conflicts, as seen in Ukraine.

ASELSAN successfully demonstrated the coordinated operation of airborne electronic warfare and ISR systems using Bayraktar TB2 UAVs in Konya, attended by over 15 international defense delegations. The demonstration highlighted the integration of electronic support, electronic attack, and synthetic aperture radar capabilities, showcasing effective target detection and engagement.

Naval Group and Nibe Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding on September 18, 2026, to collaborate on advanced naval technologies and defense solutions in India. This partnership aims to strengthen India's self-reliance in naval programs, focusing on areas such as underwater drones and modular launching systems. The agreement underscores the commitment to enhancing India's naval capabilities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat Initiative.