Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy awarded a contract worth up to $184.25 million to General Dynamics Mission Systems for the full-rate production of the Next Generation Electronic Attack Unit (NGEAU) for the EA-18G Growler. Work will be conducted at General Dynamics' facility in Bloomington, Minnesota, through September 2032. This upgrade enhances the Growler's electronic warfare capabilities, ensuring its effectiveness in complex electromagnetic environments.

Croatia signed a deal for the Chunmoo MLRS, a missile system developed by Hanwha Aerospace. This system is currently in service with South Korea and other international militaries. The acquisition indicates Croatia's commitment to enhancing its military capabilities.

ST Engineering showcased the Terrex s5 Hybrid Electric Drive at MSPO 2026 in Kielce, Poland. The vehicle features a gross mass of 35,000 kg, a payload capacity of 13,000 kg, and advanced digital systems for enhanced situational awareness and unmanned system control. It is designed to accommodate 12 personnel and can be configured for various military missions, including direct-fire support.

Canada is providing interceptors worth approximately 350 million Canadian dollars to Ukraine and is set to join the European FREYJA program for ballistic missile defense. This initiative aims to enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities amid ongoing threats. The European Union has also allocated 3.2 billion euros for related procurement, indicating a reliance on American systems despite efforts for European defense autonomy.

S.WFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

The U.S. delivered military equipment to Nigeria in September 2026 while simultaneously reducing its troop presence. This shift aims to enhance the capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces against jihadist threats, particularly in the Lake Chad Basin. The U.S. strategy emphasizes local partnerships and operational support rather than direct military engagement, reflecting a broader reconfiguration of its military presence in West Africa.

Marie DuboisFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

Anti-junta fighters launched FPV drones at Myanmar’s Tada-U Air Base on September 10, 2026, targeting military jets. One drone reportedly struck a Yak-130 jet, while the military claimed all drones were intercepted. The incident led to the closure of Mandalay International Airport for two days, affecting flights. Conflicting reports exist regarding the extent of damage to the jets.

GE Aerospace showcases the T700-401D engine at the MSPO, emphasizing its proven capabilities for military rotorcraft. The engine supports key platforms like the Sikorsky H-60 and Bell AH-1Z, with over 25,000 units having accumulated 100 million flight hours. Its modular design allows for rapid maintenance, enhancing operational readiness in demanding environments.

Baykar has equipped its Akıncı unmanned combat aircraft with Roketsan's new 300-ER air-launched ballistic missile, capable of striking targets over 500 km away. The missile, which features advanced guidance systems for precision targeting, is expected to undergo initial test firings soon. This development enhances the Akıncı's operational capabilities and extends its range significantly.

Uzbekistan received its first C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft on September 10, 2026, marking its entry as the first operator of this model in Central Asia. The acquisition includes two aircraft, enhancing the capabilities of the Uzbek Air Force, which also operates other transport aircraft. This move is part of Uzbekistan's broader strategy to modernize its military fleet with Western and Chinese equipment.

KNDS Mobility unveiled the Celeris 8×8 mobility kit for heavy wheeled combat vehicles at the MSPO defense trade show in Kielce, Poland, on September 10, 2026. The kit includes components for building custom armored vehicles and supports various designs. KNDS Mobility, previously Texelis Defense, aims to expedite vehicle development for armed forces.

On September 10, 2026, Croatia signed a contract with South Korea's Hanwha Aerospace to procure 18 K239 Chunmoo multiple rocket launchers, valued at 411.8 million euros. The deal includes various support equipment and is part of Croatia's military modernization efforts. Deliveries are expected to continue until 2030, marking a significant investment in the Croatian Armed Forces' capabilities.

BAE Systems is establishing a new 155 mm artillery ammunition manufacturing facility in Poland in partnership with Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ). Construction is set to begin this year, with completion expected by 2027-2028, aiming to produce between 150,000 and 180,000 rounds annually. This initiative will enhance Poland's munitions supply and strengthen NATO's eastern flank by reducing reliance on foreign suppliers.

The Egyptian Air Force received its first CH-47F Chinook helicopter at the El Alamein Air Show on September 8. This delivery is part of a 12 aircraft order, with six more expected by the end of the year. The CH-47F offers enhanced capabilities over the older CH-47D variant, which Egypt has operated since 1981.

Russia showcased advanced weapon systems, including the Su-57E fighter jet and Yak-130M trainer aircraft, at the Egypt International Airshow on September 8, 2023. The event highlighted the Buffalo anti-drone system and various other military equipment, emphasizing Russia's growing military significance amid ongoing operations. The Yak-130M features modern systems for tactical data exchange, while the Su-57E is now being exported to countries like Algeria.

A certain unit of the Air Force is conducting live-fire training and air combat exercises with multiple J-10C fighter jets at the coastal frontline. The training involves ground target live-fire and emphasizes the need for high-intensity operations in future combat scenarios. The performance of the J-10C is noted to be improving, indicating its readiness for upcoming missions.

The Chinese Air Force displayed four types of military aircraft, including the KJ-500 early warning aircraft and J-16 fighter jet, at the Egypt Airshow on September 8, 2026. This marks the first international showcase of these models, emphasizing China's military capabilities and potential for export. The event also reflects Egypt's considerations for military procurement, focusing on comprehensive support systems rather than just aircraft specifications.

Li MinghuiFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

Japan's Ministry of Defense submitted a budget request of approximately 8.9 trillion yen for FY2027, focusing on accelerating unmanned systems development. This shift aims to transform Japan's defense capabilities and change the burden-sharing in the U.S.-Japan alliance. The plan includes expanding the use of unmanned aerial systems and underwater vehicles, while addressing challenges in procurement speed and operational integration.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

On 27 March 1999, the F-117A Nighthawk, call sign Vega 31, was shot down by the 3rd Battalion of the Yugoslav Army’s 250th Air Defence Missile Brigade near Budjanovci during NATO's Operation Allied Force. The aircraft was targeted using an Isayev S-125 missile system, resulting in the first loss of an F-117 to enemy fire. Lt. Col. Dale Zelko ejected and was rescued after eight hours.

The U.S. Air Force is developing the B-21 Raider stealth bomber, with the first flight occurring on November 10, 2023, at Palmdale, California. The program aims to procure at least 100 units, with a target cost of approximately $750 million each. This initiative seeks to replace the aging B-2 Spirit, which had a significantly higher cost per unit.

Israeli forces destroyed Hezbollah underground facilities located beneath Alita Hill in Southern Lebanon on September 10, using over 1100 tons of explosives. The operation targeted a network of tunnels used by Hezbollah's Badr unit, which included various Iranian-made weapons. This action is part of Israel's strategy to secure the region and prevent Hezbollah's re-entry into the area.