Analysis & Reports

Israel built the Kfir fighter jet in the 1970s after France embargoed arms and retained 50 paid-for Mirage jets. The Kfir, powered by an American General Electric J79 engine, demonstrated Israel's capability to develop its own airframe while still relying on foreign technology for its engine. This dependency on foreign engines has been a recurring theme in military aviation programs globally.

Israel developed the Merkava tank to achieve military self-reliance, but it has consistently relied on foreign engines, including the current German-designed MTU 883. The tank has been in service since 1979 and has participated in multiple conflicts. A recent contract awarded to Rolls-Royce Solutions America for engine kits highlights Israel's ongoing dependence on foreign military support.

Aurelius Systems showcased its Archimedes system, an autonomous laser weapon integrated onto a robotic combat vehicle, at the Reindustrialize 2026 conference in Detroit on June 16-17, 2026. This system is designed to autonomously engage drone threats using advanced machine vision and radar technology. The display highlights the collaboration between Aurelius Systems and American Rheinmetall, marking a significant step in the development of directed energy weapons for military applications.

Sweden designed the Saab 36 Nuclear Bomber during the Cold War to deliver nuclear weapons against Soviet targets. The project was canceled in 1957 after Sweden decided against becoming a nuclear weapons state, rendering the bomber obsolete. The Saab 36 was capable of exceeding Mach 2 and had a service ceiling of 60,000 feet, reflecting Sweden's strategic military considerations at the time.

Rotron Aerospace successfully flight-tested its SkyLance One Way Effect system in the United Kingdom under Project Brakestop, a Ministry of Defence initiative. This new long-range strike weapon is designed for one-way attacks and offers greater operational range than existing alternatives. The project has created over 160 skilled jobs and aims to transform UK defense procurement by streamlining the development process.

MBDA successfully fired its CROSSBOW deep strike weapon twice, completing development in under a year. This new one-way effector system is designed for ground-launched strikes against high-value targets. The rapid development and planned production increase reflect a strategic shift in European defense capabilities to meet current demands.

On July 8, 2025, a KC-46A Pegasus from the 344th Air Refueling Squadron experienced a midair accident, resulting in its refueling boom detaching and falling into the Atlantic Ocean during a training mission with F-22A Raptors. The incident was attributed to a known design flaw and crew actions, leading to nearly $10 million in damage. The F-22A landed safely, while the KC-46A diverted to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base in North Carolina.

The UK Ministry of Defence is exploring new missile launcher systems for crewless warships and robotic vessels, seeking industry input for designs that can operate autonomously for 30 days. The initiative aims to enhance naval missile defenses and reflects lessons learned from recent conflicts involving unmanned systems. Responses to the Request for Information are due by July 13, 2026.

A unit of female soldiers from the Rocket Force conducted live-fire training exercises in a mountainous area. They demonstrated their skills in missile operations under challenging conditions, completing tasks with zero errors. The unit, averaging under 22 years of age, has successfully participated in joint exercises and competitions, showcasing their capabilities and dedication to military service.

On 17 June 2026, Finland's parliament voted to lift its ban on nuclear weapons, allowing their transport and possession for military defense needs. This decision aligns Finland more closely with NATO's nuclear strategy, occurring just before a NATO meeting in Brussels. The change is seen as a response to increasing nuclear threats from Russia, enhancing Finland's defense posture without committing to hosting nuclear weapons permanently.

Alexandra ReevesSat Jun 20 2026Loading...

Russia laid the keel of the Murmansk, a new Yasen-M nuclear-powered attack submarine, at Sevmash in Severodvinsk on June 17, 2026. This marks the first submarine of its class to be constructed in six years, reflecting Russia's ongoing investment in its undersea capabilities despite challenges from the war in Ukraine. The Yasen-M class is known for its advanced weapon systems, including the Kalibr and Zircon missiles, enhancing Russia's naval power.

Hanwha Aerospace and Thales signed a Memorandum of Understanding to explore the compatibility of Chunmoo guided missiles with the X-Fire launcher platform.

A mystery military aircraft covered in white fabric was spotted at Gifu Air Base on June 18, 2026, prompting speculation about its identity. The aircraft, likely comparable in size to an F-15, is believed to be undergoing evaluation related to electronic warfare capabilities. This sighting coincides with the construction of a new Electronic Warfare Evaluation Facility at the base, indicating ongoing advancements in Japan's military aviation.

Russia has modified its Mi-28NM attack helicopter with new electronic warfare equipment to counter drone threats in Ukraine. The changes, visible in recent military footage, include new antenna housings that suggest an upgrade to the helicopter's electronic countermeasures system. This adaptation reflects the ongoing challenges posed by drone warfare in the region, as the Mi-28NM is actively deployed for both direct fire support and stand-off attacks against Ukrainian forces.

Aero Sentinel secured a contract with the Israeli Ministry of Defense for several G3 surveillance drones in 2026, valued at approximately 1.3 million shekels. The G3 drones are designed for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance missions, featuring low acoustic signatures for stealth. The contract includes advanced camera payloads, operator training, and maintenance services, reflecting Israel's ongoing demand for tactical unmanned capabilities.

The Russian military has begun deploying 'Molniya-PVO' drone interceptors to target Ukrainian UAVs, marking a shift from traditional air defense strategies to low-altitude interception. This new approach aims to counter the increasing threat posed by inexpensive UAVs, as the military adapts to the economic realities of modern warfare. The effectiveness of these interceptors has been noted in recent engagements, indicating a significant change in operational tactics.

Dmitri VolkovSat Jun 20 2026Loading...

Destinus completed its 1,000th T150 turbojet engine in 2026, marking a significant milestone in European defense manufacturing. The engine powers the Ruta B1 and B2 cruise missiles, with production capabilities designed to meet high demand. This achievement is part of Destinus' strategy to maintain control over its supply chain and enhance European military capabilities, especially in light of recent conflicts.

At the Berlin International Aerospace Exhibition in June 2023, companies like Airbus and Boeing showcased new drone technologies aimed at enhancing military capabilities. Germany plans to invest around 16 billion euros in drone defense capabilities, with the MQ-28 Ghost Bat and U760 Raven Storm drones being key developments. The focus is on integrating drones with manned aircraft to improve situational awareness and combat effectiveness.

On September 25, 2024, China's Rocket Force successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile from a mobile platform into the Pacific Ocean. This marked the first test of such a missile in 44 years, showcasing China's advanced missile capabilities and operational readiness. The launch was conducted under challenging environmental conditions, emphasizing the Rocket Force's preparedness for real combat scenarios.

The Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army successfully launched an intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) on September 25, 2024, in the Pacific Ocean. This marked the first full-range test since 1980, showcasing advancements in missile technology and operational capabilities. The launch was conducted from a mobile platform, indicating enhanced mobility and flexibility in China's strategic deterrent forces.