Analysis & Reports

Hanwha Aerospace launched Hanwha Horizon USA on August 25, 2026, to manage its liquefied natural gas (LNG) business, including procurement and logistics. Led by James Sagar, the entity aims to create a stable LNG supply chain and expand trading operations in Asia. The initiative supports energy security cooperation between the United States and South Korea, with agreements signed to strengthen LNG procurement.

Russian forces conducted strikes on border crossings with Moldova from late July to August 2023, targeting infrastructure to disrupt Ukrainian logistics. This campaign aims to increase costs for Ukrainian exports and instill a sense of constant border threat for Moldova and Romania. The strikes are part of a broader strategy to weaken Ukraine's economic ties with Europe and demonstrate the risks associated with supporting Ukraine.

Dmitri VolkovWed Aug 26 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army is conducting market research for a new short-range guided missile similar to the JAGM and Hellfire, with production expected to start by early 2028. The request, published on August 25, 2023, outlines the need for a missile capable of operating in adverse conditions and overcoming electronic jamming. The Army aims to procure 8,000 missiles initially, with annual deliveries of the same quantity thereafter, to enhance its capabilities against various targets including drones and armored vehicles.

The U.S. Army awarded a $257 million contract to UTM Ltd. for the supply of 5.56mm marking ammunition used in force-on-force training. The contract includes M1042 loose and M1071 linked cartridges and is managed by Army Contracting Command in Newark, New Jersey, with an estimated completion date of August 24, 2031. This ammunition enables soldiers to conduct realistic training exercises without the risk of injury from live rounds.

The U.S. Army awarded a $133 million contract to Griffon Aerospace on August 10, 2023, for the procurement of Outlaw drone systems and support equipment at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. This contract, which has an estimated completion date of December 31, 2026, may lead to rapid spending if large orders are placed. The Outlaw systems are utilized for training air defense units against aerial threats.

The U.S. Air Force awarded Raytheon a $603 million contract on August 21, 2025, for the production and sustainment of the AN/APQ-188 radar for the B-52H bomber fleet. This new radar will replace the outdated AN/APQ-166 system and is part of a modernization effort to keep the B-52 operational into the 2050s. Work will be conducted at various locations, with flight testing expected to begin in fiscal 2026 after delays.

The U.S. Navy awarded Castelion Corp. nearly $90 million on August 25, 2023, to advance the Blackbeard hypersonic strike weapon towards Early Operational Capability. This contract includes funding for engineering, logistics, and manufacturing of 50 weapons, with work expected to be completed by August 2028. The Blackbeard missile is designed to exceed Mach 5 and is intended for both air and ground launch systems.

Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted strikes on multiple Russian military targets from August 24 to 25, 2023. The attacks included the Millerovo Air Base, laser weapon systems in Luhansk, and satellite communication jamming stations in Crimea. Damage reported includes a MiG-29 aircraft and various military facilities. Ukrainian forces intend to persist in targeting critical Russian military objectives.

The Rocket Force of the People's Liberation Army is conducting a comprehensive review of its missile equipment supply chain, collecting leads on procurement violations until November 30. This initiative involves not only military personnel but also suppliers and evaluation experts, indicating a systemic approach to address potential issues in the procurement process. The focus is on ensuring the reliability of components and logistics support for missile systems.

Li MinghuiWed Aug 26 2026Loading...

USS Enterprise and USS Nimitz are undergoing complex decommissioning processes in the Pacific Ocean, with Enterprise costing $1.43 billion and Nimitz projected to exceed $1 billion. Both carriers face extensive logistical challenges due to their nuclear reactors, requiring specialized handling and regulatory compliance. The Navy has initiated a dedicated program office to manage these retirements as the Nimitz class ages out over the next two decades.

Rheinmetall received an initial call-off from the Federal Office of Bundeswehr Infrastructure, Environmental Protection and Services in Germany for a modular camp order. This marks the first order under the G-CAP II SU program.

The U.S. Air Force faces significant challenges in producing the F-47 stealth fighter, with costs projected at $300 million per unit and a desired fleet size of 185 to 200. As China continues to expand its advanced aircraft capabilities, the U.S. risks being outmatched in a potential conflict. The Air Force is considering the use of drones to enhance its operational capacity, but production limitations may hinder its effectiveness against China's growing military strength.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking a contractor to maintain and update the software for the AC-130J Ghostrider's targeting system at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. A notice posted on August 25, 2024, outlines the need for support on the Brimstone Software Suite, which is critical for the aircraft's operations. L3Harris ForceX Inc. is currently the sole provider of this software, and the Air Force is exploring options for additional contractors to ensure system reliability and updates.

Australia announced the selection of Henderson Defense Precinct as the primary maintenance and shipbuilding base for nuclear submarines under the AUKUS project on August 24, 2023. The project involves an investment of approximately 25 billion AUD over the next decade to develop necessary infrastructure. Concerns have been raised regarding the performance of second-hand submarines to be received from the US, while China has warned about the nuclear proliferation risks associated with the AUKUS partnership.

USS Abraham Lincoln will dock in Thailand next week for rest and recreation after a prolonged deployment in the Middle East. The carrier, with approximately 5,000 sailors and Marines aboard, has not made a port call in over 200 days. The Thai Navy confirmed the visit, which is intended for personnel to recuperate and receive logistical support.

The U.S. Navy announced the establishment of a new defense industrial base office to enhance domestic manufacturing and address supply chain vulnerabilities. Andrew Magliochetti has been appointed as the first deputy assistant secretary for this office, tasked with revitalizing the maritime industrial base and accelerating the transition of innovative technologies. The Navy aims to increase its fleet significantly by fiscal 2031, addressing past challenges in shipbuilding and delivery timelines.

Poland, Norway, Lithuania, and Latvia signed a framework agreement to purchase Piorun man-portable air defense systems from PGZ in Warsaw. The deal, valued at over 8 billion zloty ($2.2 billion), includes several thousand missiles and several hundred launch units, with deliveries expected by 2030. More than 80% of the equipment will be supplied to the Polish military, marking a significant collaboration among European allies in defense procurement.

Austria's Bundesheer received its first modernized Ulan infantry fighting vehicle and Leopard 2A4 tank during a handover ceremony in Großmittel on August 25, 2023. The modernization is part of the Aufbauplan ÖBH 2032+ and includes upgrades to optics, electronics, and drivetrain components. A total of 112 Ulan vehicles are being modernized at a cost of 460 million euros, while 58 Leopard tanks are also undergoing upgrades.

The U.S. Navy announced the establishment of a new defense industrial base office in Washington, aimed at enhancing the industrial supply chain and integrating innovative technologies. Andrew Magliochetti will lead the office, focusing on expanding domestic manufacturing and addressing supply chain vulnerabilities. This initiative follows a directive from President Trump to restore capacity and competition within the maritime industrial base.

Sikorsky has designated Česká letecká servisní (ČLS) as the first authorized distribution center for Black Hawk helicopter parts in the European Union.