Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy showcased the F-35C fighter at the Lakeland Airshow on March 19, 2026, highlighting its advanced capabilities. The aircraft features a fly-by-wire system, allowing for automated stability and control, and is designed for stealth operations with internal weapon storage. Pilots manage missions using a data-centric cockpit, emphasizing the transition from traditional piloting to systems management.

The U.S. Space Force cancelled the Next Generation Operational Control System (OCX) contract on April 17th due to insurmountable challenges in delivering required capabilities. Over $6.27 billion was spent on the project, which was intended to modernize GPS satellite control. The Space Force will instead enhance the existing GPS control system and has awarded Lockheed Martin a $105 million contract for related work.

U.S. President Trump indicated that extending the ceasefire with Iran is unlikely if no agreement is reached before the April 22 deadline. He emphasized that military action would likely resume if negotiations fail. Vice President Pence is set to travel to Pakistan for talks on April 21, while Iran's participation in the negotiations remains uncertain.

Anduril and HD Hyundai are expanding their partnership to produce autonomous surface vessels, with the first vessel entering production and set to be in the water by October 2023. Testing will take place off the U.S. coast by the end of 2026. Edison Chouest Offshore is collaborating with them for production at U.S. shipyards.

Anduril and HD Hyundai are producing autonomous surface vessels, with the first vessel expected to be in the water and tested by the end of this year. Daily at-sea testing is ongoing to collect operational data. Anduril will take ownership of the vessel for testing off the U.S. coast by the end of 2026, in collaboration with Edison Chouest Offshore.

The Sea Air Space conference in National Harbor, Maryland, showcased various military technologies, including a robot dog by Path Robotics and a wingless Spectre USV by Saildrone. The U.S. Naval Air Systems Command announced L3Harris as the developer for the Marine Corps' Red Wolf munitions. Additionally, General Dynamics displayed Columbia and Virginia Class submarines, highlighting advancements in military equipment and defense capabilities.

President Trump signed an executive order to accelerate research on psychedelic therapies for veterans' mental health issues, particularly PTSD, in the United States. The order allocates $50 million in federal funds for research on ibogaine, a powerful hallucinogen. This initiative aims to ease regulatory constraints and provide veterans with access to potentially life-saving treatments.

The U.S. Air Force announced it will extend the service of the A-10 Thunderbolt II until around 2030, preserving its role in close air support during the transition to newer aircraft. This decision, confirmed by the Office of the Secretary of the Air Force, reflects political backing and aims to maintain combat power. The A-10, known for its effectiveness in supporting ground forces, will remain a key asset in the Air Force's inventory.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog's service through 2030, maintaining 54 aircraft until 2029 and reducing to 36 by 2030. This decision supports ongoing military operations in Iran, including close air support in the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement follows a recent incident where an A-10 was involved in a search and rescue mission for downed F-15E airmen.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog's service through 2030, reversing a previous retirement timeline. This decision includes retaining 54 A-10s until 2029, with a reduction to 36 by 2030. The aircraft have been actively involved in operations in Iran, including close air support in the Strait of Hormuz and a recent search and rescue mission.

Two soldiers were injured during a bear encounter at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, last week. The incident occurred during a land navigation exercise, and the soldiers' injuries were mitigated by bear spray. The area is now closed for investigation, and wildlife officials are analyzing samples to identify the bear involved.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading the B-52H Stratofortress to the B-52J to modernize its fleet and ensure viability until the 2050s. Key upgrades include new engines and enhanced weapons capacity for advanced missiles. The B-52J will support ongoing military operations while maintaining the bomber's role in the nuclear triad. The aircraft's operational challenges and unique flying characteristics are highlighted by pilots' experiences.

The F-22 Raptor, operated by the U.S. Air Force, showcased its advanced capabilities at the Lakeland Airshow on April 19, 2026. Pilots described flying the F-22 as akin to 'wearing the jet,' emphasizing its superior sensor fusion and maneuverability. Despite past issues with hypoxia among pilots, the F-22 remains a critical asset in air superiority, equipped with advanced weaponry and stealth features.

The U.S. is leading efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, which is currently closed due to geopolitical tensions following U.S.-Israeli airstrikes on Iran. A coalition involving the U.S., U.K., and Ukraine is being organized to ensure maritime security and prevent Iran from closing the strait again. The current ceasefire offers a narrow opportunity for diplomatic engagement and coalition building.

The U.S. Air Force showcased the A-10 Warthog at the Sun ’n Fun Airshow in Lakeland, Florida, on April 19, 2026. The aircraft is designed for close air support, featuring a GAU-8 Avenger gun and known for its durability and damage tolerance. Pilots describe it as a stable but heavy platform, optimized for low-altitude operations rather than speed or agility.

The Space Force launched a cislunar acquisition task force to support NASA's planned moon base, establishing a Cislunar Coordination Office in Colorado Springs on April 15. This initiative aims to develop technology and logistics for sustained operations in cislunar space, including the launch of the Oracle Prime satellite for monitoring. The Space Force will collaborate closely with NASA and industry to ensure safety and sustainability for lunar missions.

The U.S. Navy-Marine Corps Team is utilizing the MQ-9B SeaGuardian for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting operations. This unmanned aircraft system provides unmatched endurance and advanced capabilities, including anti-submarine warfare and integration with long-range weapons. Its all-weather performance and modular payload architecture enhance operational flexibility and effectiveness in modern conflict.

The Pentagon is implementing AI tools to vet 27,000 military-funded research awards for foreign ties, particularly to China. This decision follows a federal watchdog report highlighting insufficient staffing for oversight. Concerns have been raised about the potential for AI to misidentify legitimate research as espionage, echoing past issues under the China Initiative. The U.S. intelligence community warns that China aims to surpass the U.S. in AI by 2030.

The Pentagon is implementing AI tools to vet 27,000 military-funded research awards for foreign ties, particularly to China. Concerns have been raised about the potential for AI to misinterpret research collaborations as espionage. A recent inspector general report revealed staffing shortages in the vetting process, prompting calls for improved human oversight. The U.S. intelligence community warns that China aims to become the global AI leader by 2030.

Boeing successfully demonstrated the autonomous landing of a U.S. Army CH-47 Chinook using its A2X software. This event is part of the Army's initiative to enhance autonomy in its aircraft fleet, which includes the recent introduction of a pilot-optional Black Hawk. The Chinook's autonomous capabilities are designed to reduce pilot workload and improve operational efficiency.