Analysis & Reports

Leonardo signed a major contract with EDGE Group’s Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) on May 20, 2026, to provide next-generation naval combat systems for the Kuwait Navy's 'Al Dorra' missile boat program. Valued at around €320 million, this agreement enhances their strategic partnership and aims to establish a future joint venture. The collaboration has previously delivered over 25 naval units, showcasing a successful track record in defense.

Russia launched its largest nuclear exercises in years, mobilizing nearly 65,000 troops and various military assets from May 19 to 21, 2024. The drills, which include live missile launches, are framed as a rehearsal for nuclear force preparation and involve coordination with Belarusian forces. This exercise is perceived as a strategic move to influence NATO decision-making amid rising tensions.

Naval Group was selected by Sweden's Ministry of Defence on 19 May 2026 to provide four FDI frigates to the Royal Swedish Navy. This decision concludes a competitive selection process and aims to enhance Sweden's naval capabilities, supporting its role in NATO operations. The FDI frigates are combat-ready and designed to meet current and emerging threats.

Redwire Corporation secured a multi-year contract on May 19, 2026, to provide the next-generation Penguin Mk3 uncrewed aerial system for NATO's tactical drone modernization program. The contract, valued in the high eight-figures, underscores NATO's focus on enhancing its drone capabilities. Redwire has previously supplied over 250 Penguin drones to Ukraine, demonstrating the system's operational value.

The German Armed Forces suspended promotions for sergeants in May 2023 due to a court ruling that deemed service time alone an insufficient basis for promotion. This decision, which affects thousands of personnel, has been criticized by military associations as damaging to trust and morale. A new promotion system is set to be implemented in 2027, freezing some promotions until then.

The French National Assembly passed a bill to increase the defense budget by 36 billion euros by 2030, raising the total to 436 billion euros. The budget for 2030 is projected to reach 76.3 billion euros, an increase of 8.9 billion euros from earlier plans. This move aims to address military demands and bolster the defense industry in preparation for future strategic challenges.

Japan plans to enhance its Pacific surveillance capabilities by introducing MQ-9B SeaGuardian drones and mobile radar systems on Iwo Jima and Chichijima by 2027. This initiative aims to fill surveillance gaps and respond to increasing Chinese naval activities. The Japan Self-Defense Forces will utilize these systems to improve monitoring of air and maritime threats, while addressing operational challenges related to communication and civilian airspace integration.

Tanaka TakashiWed May 20 2026Loading...

Israeli officials assess that the U.S. is still inclined to restart military actions against Iran despite President Trump's announcement to cancel such actions on May 18. Joint preparations for potential military action by Israel and the U.S. are reportedly complete, awaiting Trump's decision amid ongoing negotiations with leaders from Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE.

South Africa condemned Israel's illegal detention of the 'Global Resilience Fleet' and the kidnapping of South African citizens on board in international waters on May 19, 2023. The South African government expressed serious humanitarian and legal concerns, urging respect for international law. A joint statement from foreign ministers of 10 countries, including Indonesia, strongly condemned Israel's actions against the fleet.

Russia conducted nuclear exercises involving 64,000 troops in May 2026, signaling to NATO and European capitals. The exercises included over 200 missile launchers, 140 aircraft, and 13 submarines, demonstrating military readiness. This event is framed as a response to Western support for Ukraine and coincides with President Putin's visit to China, emphasizing strategic partnerships.

Dmitri VolkovTue May 19 2026Loading...

U.S. President Trump announced that the U.S. may conduct a heavy strike against Iran but has postponed military action at the request of Gulf allies. He indicated that negotiations for a peace agreement are ongoing, and he is allowing a limited time for dialogue to continue.

Hegseth is reconsidering the U.S. Army's strategy regarding the offloading of outdated systems and the introduction of new technology. This reflects ongoing challenges in the Army's transformation efforts to modernize its capabilities.

The U.S. plans to reduce the military capabilities available to NATO allies, expecting European nations to assume primary security responsibilities. This decision, involving a withdrawal of approximately 5,000 troops from Europe, will be announced at a defense policy chiefs meeting in Brussels. The NATO alliance faces unprecedented strain as concerns grow over U.S. commitment to European security.

Gurpartap Sandhoo was appointed as the head of the Missile Warning and Tracking Portfolio Acquisition Executive office by the Space Force on May 11. He will also continue in his role as the permanent director of the Space Development Agency. This new office aims to enhance missile tracking capabilities, overseeing the Next Generation Overhead Persistent Infrared constellation and the Resilient Missile Warning and Tracking program.

US Northern Command is establishing the Nordic Bridge partnership to enhance collaboration among military commands addressing Arctic security concerns. The initiative focuses on ensuring a coordinated presence in the Arctic, particularly in Alaska, and includes participation from Danish Special Operations Forces. Military leaders emphasize the importance of local expertise in Arctic operations.

U.S. Southern Command is reassessing troop deployment strategies in response to the increasing threat of drones on the battlefield. Marine Gen. Francis Donovan highlighted the vulnerabilities created by large troop concentrations and bases during the Iraq and Afghanistan wars. He advocates for smaller, more dynamic deployments in South America to avoid becoming easy targets for enemy drones.

The U.S. Navy is recommending a new 56-month force generation model for amphibious ships to enhance readiness and increase the fleet size to 40 ships. This proposal follows concerns about current readiness levels and aims to maintain a persistent global presence of Marine Expeditionary Units. Acting Secretary of the Navy Hung Cao presented this recommendation to the Secretary of Defense, highlighting the need for improved maintenance and training cycles.

U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes on Iran on February 28, 2026, leading to Spain denying U.S. access to military bases and Italy refusing to support U.S. operations. Diplomatic tensions escalated as President Trump threatened a trade embargo against Spain and withdrew 5,000 troops from Germany, indicating a significant shift in U.S.-European relations.

U.S. President Trump announced a postponement of military strikes against Iran, responding to requests from leaders of Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE due to ongoing negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program. Iran has warned of a decisive response if attacked again, while the U.S. military remains prepared for significant action if talks do not yield satisfactory results.

Space Force Gen. Michael Guetlein disputed a $1.2 trillion estimate for the Golden Dome missile defense system last week. The U.S. Army conducted a significant electronic warfare exercise involving infantry and Green Berets near Fort Carson, Colorado.