Analysis & Reports

MBDA appointed Jean-Brice Dumont as its new CEO effective Nov. 1, 2023, succeeding Eric Béranger. The transition process will begin in October to ensure continuity. Under Béranger, MBDA nearly doubled its sales and order book, and European governments are urging the company to ramp up missile production in response to security challenges. Dumont, who has a strong background in aerospace and defense, aims to continue MBDA's transformation.

MBDA announced the replacement of CEO Éric Béranger with Airbus executive Jean-Brice Dumont, effective November 1. Under Béranger's leadership, the company doubled missile production and achieved significant revenue growth. MBDA has also increased its support for Ukraine by ramping up deliveries of precision-guided missiles.

Six F-39E Gripen aircraft from the Brazilian Air Force participated in the SALITRE 2026 exercise at Cerro Moreno Air Base in Antofagasta, Chile. The exercise involved over 1,500 military personnel and aircraft from five other countries, focusing on air defence, escort, and patrol missions. The Gripen fighters executed various air operations, employing advanced electronic warfare systems and tactical capabilities.

On June 21, 2026, the U.S. Navy Carrier Strike Group and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force conducted joint exercises in Guam, focusing on the integration of missile defense systems including Aegis and THAAD. The exercise utilized AI to assess threat responses and improve decision-making speed. Additionally, commercial sensor data was incorporated into military workflows to enhance operational effectiveness.

Tanaka TakashiWed Jul 15 2026Loading...

Bala Selvam is implementing new data workflows for the Special Operations Command Pacific to enhance the use of AI tools in military operations. He identified inefficiencies in existing data transfer methods, particularly in the Indo-Pacom Command, and is collaborating with AWS to create smaller cloud compute clusters for battalions. This initiative aims to improve command and control capabilities by ensuring timely access to critical data for troops in the field.

On October 13, 2023, U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against multiple Iranian targets, including missile and drone facilities, in response to Iranian threats. The Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps retaliated by attacking U.S. military bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, destroying key military infrastructure. The conflict has intensified, undermining a fragile ceasefire and raising tensions over control of the Hormuz Strait.

U.S. forces conducted airstrikes against Iranian military assets near the Strait of Hormuz, while Iran retaliated against U.S. facilities in the region. Commercial traffic through the strait has significantly decreased, indicating a tense maritime environment. Both nations assert control over the strait, leading to an ongoing armed stalemate.

The U.S. launched airstrikes against Iranian military targets in response to Iranian attacks on U.S. allies and shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. CENTCOM reported hitting dozens of targets, including air-defense systems and missile capabilities. Iran claimed responsibility for attacks on U.S. military targets in Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait, while CENTCOM denied any U.S. casualties. The situation reflects a significant escalation in hostilities following a recent ceasefire agreement.

Taiwan's Marine Corps mobilized dozens of vehicles from southern Taiwan to Taipei as part of a five-day joint defense exercise from July 13 to 17. The exercise focused on rapid reinforcement of key political and economic centers, testing decentralized command and operational readiness. Concurrently, China's Fujian aircraft carrier transited the Taiwan Strait, influencing Taiwan's defense strategy.

Marcus ChenMon Jul 13 2026Loading...

The Marine Corps is evaluating Ditto's technology to maintain local networks for AI tools during cloud outages. This initiative, part of Project Dynamis, aims to ensure communication in combat situations where cloud access is compromised. The focus is on creating a peer-to-peer data mesh using existing consumer devices like radios and cell phones, addressing vulnerabilities highlighted by recent conflicts.

China and Russia conducted joint naval exercises near Qingdao, concluding on July 11, 2026. This marked the first instance of both nations' submarines operating together at sea, enhancing their collaborative military capabilities. The exercises focused on addressing maritime security threats and included real-time data sharing and joint command structures.

The joint naval exercise 'Maritime Cooperation-2026' concluded in Qingdao on July 13, 2026, with participation from ten vessels of the Chinese and Russian navies. The exercise focused on joint responses to maritime security threats and included various military activities such as reconnaissance and air defense. This event marks the continuation of military cooperation between the two nations, enhancing their capabilities in addressing maritime crises.

China and Russia conducted the 'Maritime Joint 2026' naval exercise, involving multiple vessels and submarines. Following the exercise, some forces transitioned to joint patrols in the Pacific. The Japanese Self-Defense Forces are actively monitoring these developments, particularly regarding anti-submarine operations and the implications for regional security.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jul 13 2026Loading...

The joint naval exercise 'Maritime Joint-2026' between China and Russia concluded today. Russian forces included the Varyag cruiser and Ufa submarine, while China deployed the Kai Feng destroyer and Wuhu frigate. The exercise focused on maritime security threats and involved joint drills in various military operations. Following the exercise, some forces will conduct joint patrols in the Pacific.

China and Russia concluded joint naval exercises in the Sea of Japan on November 11, 2026, involving surface ships, submarines, and aircraft. The drills focused on enhancing operational capabilities against drone threats and included real combat scenarios. This exercise marked a significant step in military cooperation between the two nations, showcasing their strategic trust and coordination.

USS Tucson (SSN 770) relocated to Naval Base Guam from Pearl Harbor on July 10, 2023, as part of the U.S. Navy's Strategic Laydown Plan. This move positions the submarine closer to contested waters in the South China Sea, enhancing U.S. military readiness in the region. Tucson joins three other fast-attack submarines already stationed in Guam, contributing to the U.S. deterrence strategy against a growing Chinese fleet.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes on 140 Iranian military targets in the Strait of Hormuz on July 11, 2023, following an attack by Iranian forces on the commercial vessel GFS Galaxy. The strikes aimed to degrade Iran's military capabilities in the region, amidst ongoing tensions and diplomatic efforts led by Oman. Iran's Revolutionary Guard retaliated with strikes on Jordan's Prince Hassan Air Base, further escalating the conflict.

A Naval Aviation Unit in China conducted ground-based full-process takeoff and landing training for J-15 fighter jets. The exercise focused on improving the coordination and psychological readiness of personnel involved in the operation. The training emphasized the importance of precise movements and teamwork to ensure successful aircraft operations.

The People's Liberation Army Navy has significantly increased its naval patrols and military exercises in the South China Sea from June to July 2026, particularly around Huangyan Island and the Nansha Islands. This increase follows extensive military reforms that have enhanced the navy's capabilities, including the establishment of new facilities and equipment on various islands. China continues to assert its sovereignty over these waters amid ongoing joint military exercises with other nations.

On July 9, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and U.S. Air Force conducted tactical training with four aircraft, including F-22s, in the East China Sea near Okinawa. This exercise is part of a strategic military posture amid concurrent naval exercises by China and Russia in the Yellow Sea, highlighting regional security concerns.

Tanaka TakashiSun Jul 12 2026Loading...