Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force announced on September 16 that it will extend the service lives of the B-1B Lancer and B-2 Spirit bombers while preparing for the B-21 Raider's introduction. This decision is influenced by rising global tensions and the need for combat readiness. The first operational B-21 Raiders are scheduled for delivery to Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota in 2027, with increased production capacity agreed upon to expedite the process.

The U.S. Army awarded a $10.6 million contract to Skyeton Inc. for Raybird unmanned aircraft, with an estimated completion date of December 15, 2026. The Raybird drone is designed for long missions, capable of flying over 2,500 km and operating for up to 28 hours. This contract marks a significant step in U.S. military procurement of advanced UAV technology, following its successful deployment by Ukrainian forces.

NASA utilized two F-16XL fighters for research on supersonic flight efficiency until their retirement in 1999. The F-16XL, which was never operationally deployed, was recently added as a playable aircraft in the War Thunder video game, introducing its unique design and capabilities to a new audience. The aircraft's development highlighted the need for long-range strike capabilities in modern air forces.

The Department of Defense mandated testosterone screenings for all male service members aged 30 and over to identify deficiencies. This new policy, effective immediately, aims to enhance troop health and performance. The screenings will be integrated into annual health assessments, with laboratory testing for those showing symptoms or risk factors. Optional screenings are available for troops under 30, and testosterone replacement therapy remains voluntary.

Germany received its first F-35A Lightning II fighter jet from Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas, on September 18, 2023. This acquisition is part of a €10 billion contract for 35 jets aimed at modernizing the German Air Force and maintaining its nuclear-sharing role within NATO. The F-35A will replace the aging Tornado aircraft, with the first jets expected to be stationed in the U.S. for training before arriving in Germany.

Canada's military is withholding records related to an image of Lt. Gen. Jamie Speiser-Blanchet signing a fuselage for the F-35A Lightning II at Lockheed Martin's Texas plant on February 14, 2023. This decision comes as Ottawa reviews its planned purchase of 88 F-35 jets amid political scrutiny and alternative proposals from other manufacturers. The situation reflects ongoing tensions regarding defense procurement and military strategy in Canada.

Dan Driscoll resigned as secretary of the Army in August 2026, leaving the Army without a confirmed leader during the ongoing war with Iran. Pete Hegseth has blocked numerous promotions, particularly targeting women and Black officers, which has raised concerns about the politicization of the military and the integrity of its promotion system. This has resulted in a military leadership that does not reflect the diversity of its enlisted force.

As of September 2026, 16,300 U.S. troops may receive medical shaving waivers under new grooming standards. If these troops cannot comply with the 'clean-shaven' policy within a year, they could face separation from service. The policy affects the Army, Marine Corps, Air Force, Space Force, and Navy, with reevaluations required for those with temporary waivers due to medical conditions.

Germany celebrated the rollout of its first F-35 aircraft at Lockheed Martin's facility in Ft. Worth, Texas. The event, attended by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and US officials, underscores the strengthening defense collaboration between the two nations. Germany's $8.8 billion deal for 35 F-35s, signed in 2022, marks a significant step in enhancing its military capabilities, with the first aircraft expected to arrive in late 2027.

The United States Air Force is considering the procurement of a new F-16 variant, the F-16G, to address capacity gaps in its aging fleet. This aircraft would feature advanced systems and capabilities, surpassing existing models. The USAF currently operates 826 F-16 aircraft, with 484 in active duty, and aims to modernize its fleet to meet future operational requirements by 2030.

Military chaplains are addressing the moral implications of AI in warfare, particularly regarding moral injury from AI-assisted decisions and drone operations. The U.S. Army is testing AI in targeting processes, and chaplains are preparing to support service members facing ethical dilemmas. Congress is examining the mental health impacts of drone operations, highlighting the need for understanding AI technology in military contexts.

BAE Systems OneArc received a contract from the US Army to integrate its Embedded Collective Training solution onto a platoon of combat vehicles at Fort Hood, Texas.

Pakistan's military announced its unconditional support for Saudi Arabia, pledging to defend religious sites in Mecca and Medina amid increasing Houthi attacks. The statement was made by a military spokesperson on the 17th, emphasizing the commitment to Saudi security. This follows a recent wave of assaults by Houthi forces, which Saudi Arabia claims included an attempted drone strike on Mecca.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $47.4 million contract modification for engineering support of the Nuclear-Armed Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM-N) program on May 6, 2025. This marks the development of the first new nuclear weapon since the Cold War, with an expected delivery capability by 2034. The contract includes various technical support tasks and is primarily based in Washington, D.C., with additional work at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor and Norfolk.

Space Force leaders indicated that modernization efforts may slow due to Congress not passing a full budget for fiscal year 2027. They have requested $71.1 billion, but a continuing resolution has been enacted to maintain funding at 2026 levels, preventing new programs from starting. Approximately 10% of programs could be delayed, while efforts to streamline military purchasing are ongoing.

The Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, Georgia, is hosting a three-day event from September 24-26 to honor the SR-71 Blackbird and its crew. The SR-71, which holds the speed record of 2,193.167 mph, will be showcased with its cockpit on display, and ex-crew members will provide insights into its operation. Maj. Gen. Eldon Joersz, who set the record, will be among the attendees.

USS Cooperstown returned to Naval Station Mayport on August 31, 2026, after a four-month deployment. The Littoral Combat Ship program has been criticized for cost overruns, reliability issues, and a lack of effective combat capability, leading to a gradual retirement of the class. The U.S. Navy is adjusting its expectations and roles for the LCS amid changing maritime threats.

Doug DeMaio won an appeal against his firing as commander of the Alabama Air National Guard’s 187th Fighter Wing, which occurred in August 2022. A federal panel ruled that Alabama officials failed to provide a valid reason for his removal, ordering his reinstatement with back pay. The 187th Fighter Wing is currently transitioning from F-16s to F-35s, a process DeMaio was involved in prior to his dismissal.

The U.S. Air Force operates 183 F-22 Raptors and over 800 F-35s, while China has around 500 J-20s and 60 J-35s, with production rates of 120 J-20s annually. The J-20's combat range of 1,200 miles exceeds that of the F-22, which has a range of 530 miles. The report highlights the growing challenge posed by China's mass production capabilities to U.S. air dominance.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $200 million contract to defense startup Castelion for the production of the Blackbeard hypersonic missile, enhancing carrier-based strike capabilities. This missile, designed for aircraft like the F-35 and F/A-18, has a range of 200 nautical miles and aims to fill a gap in the Navy's weapons systems. The contract is part of a broader effort to adapt acquisition processes to meet military needs more rapidly.