Analysis & Reports

Saudi Arabia seeks to acquire 48 F-35A aircraft, raising concerns in Israel about military superiority. Israeli media reports that this acquisition could undermine Israel's qualitative military edge. The U.S. is caught between supporting Saudi Arabia and maintaining its commitment to Israel's military capabilities. The operational readiness of the F-35s is also a concern, as Saudi Arabia may not have enough trained pilots to operate them effectively.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

ASELSAN showcased a trailer-mounted version of the SARP 100/35 weapon turret in Turkey, designed for air defense and ground engagement. This system, which can utilize 35mm ATOM programmable ammunition, allows for rapid deployment to secure locations such as ports and military bases. The turret's configuration enables it to operate independently from armored vehicles, enhancing its versatility in defending against aerial threats.

Iran declared its missile program as a non-negotiable element of its defense strategy in response to U.S. President Trump's ultimatum. The U.S. Navy increased its military presence in the Middle East with the deployment of two aircraft carriers. Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are investing billions in U.S. defense systems to counter potential Iranian threats.

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The U.S. military completed its withdrawal from the Tanf military base in Syria on February 11, 2023, handing control over to Syrian forces. This transition was coordinated between the U.S. and Syria, with U.S. Central Command emphasizing ongoing readiness to counter ISIS threats. Syrian forces have begun deploying in the border area with Iraq and Jordan.

The SR-71 Blackbird conducted reconnaissance missions from bases like Kadena Air Base during the late 1960s, observing activities in North Vietnam and Laos. It set numerous speed and altitude records, including a Mach 3.3 flight and an altitude of 85,068.997 feet. The program was terminated in 1989 due to rising costs and advancements in satellite technology, although NASA continued to operate the aircraft for research until 1999.

The Israeli Air Force (IAF) deployed its F-35I Adir fleet to conduct airstrikes against Iranian targets during a 12-day conflict. The operations involved beyond-visual-range strikes and drone swarms, highlighting a shift towards distributed and unmanned warfare. Despite the F-35I's use, critics argue that it was not the decisive weapon and emphasize the need for a focus on drone technology instead of costly manned aircraft.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) Chief of Staff conducted an inspection in Rafah on October 13, asserting that the IDF has destroyed all Hamas frontline combat camps and is ready to shift to offensive operations if needed. The IDF is currently monitoring border crossings into Gaza and aims to demilitarize the region, having recently established the 38th Brigade to enhance ground combat capabilities.

U.S. Central Command completed the transfer of over 5700 detained ISIS members from northeastern Syria to Iraq on February 12, 2023. This operation, lasting 23 days, was initiated to ensure the security of these individuals in detention facilities. The Iraqi military has started judicial procedures for the 2250 members received as part of this transfer.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) will not abandon the goal of demilitarizing Gaza and disarming Hamas, as stated by IDF Chief of Staff in Rafah on February 13. The IDF is preparing for offensive operations and focusing on dismantling underground military infrastructure in the area. Hamas officials have declared that resistance will persist as long as Israel continues its attacks.

Iran's Defense Secretary Ali Shamkhani announced that the country will respond decisively to any reckless actions against it. He emphasized that Iran's missile systems are a non-negotiable red line and stated that Israel cannot act without U.S. support. Shamkhani also noted Iran's high military readiness and warned that any miscalculations would lead to severe consequences. Indirect negotiations between Iran and the U.S. are ongoing in Muscat, Oman.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a contract to Boeing for new GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators to replace munitions used in previous strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. This action aims to restore operational readiness and ensure the Air Force Global Strike Command has the necessary assets for strategic contingency plans. The contract is valued at over $100 million, with deliveries starting in January 2028.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a sole-source contract to Boeing for new GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrators to replace munitions used in previous strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. This action is aimed at restoring operational readiness and ensuring the Air Force Global Strike Command has the necessary assets for strategic contingency plans. The contract is valued at over $100 million, with deliveries starting in January 2028.

Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Saudi Arabia on 12 February 2026 for the joint production of the MKE TOLGA Short-Range Air Defence System and 122 mm MLRS ammunition. This marks MKE's third export of the TOLGA system in a month, following exports to Qatar and Egypt. Additionally, MKE is establishing ammunition production lines in Saudi Arabia and has signed an agreement for joint explosives production.

Makine ve Kimya Endüstrisi (MKE) signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Saudi Arabia on February 12, 2026, for the joint production of the MKE TOLGA Short-Range Air Defence System and 122 mm MLRS ammunition. This agreement marks MKE's third export of the TOLGA system in a month, following similar agreements with Qatar and Egypt. Additionally, MKE is establishing ammunition production lines in Saudi Arabia and is in talks for the export of BORAN 105 mm Howitzers.

The U.S. has ordered the deployment of the USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier to the Middle East, joining the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group in the Persian Gulf. This move is intended to exert greater military pressure on Iran amid ongoing tensions. President Trump reiterated his preference for diplomatic solutions during a meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu, while Iranian officials warned of a strong response to any military provocations.

Russia introduced the Sarma multiple launch rocket system at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in 2026. The system features a command-and-control vehicle and a target acquisition UAV, enhancing its operational capabilities. The Sarma can launch six rockets in 18 seconds and is designed for rapid deployment, with guided rockets capable of reaching targets up to 120 km away.

U.S. forces completed the withdrawal from al-Tanf, Syria, transferring over 5,700 ISIS fighters to Iraqi custody. This operation is part of a broader conditions-based drawdown strategy in response to the evolving situation in Syria following the departure of former dictator Bashar al-Assad.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is being deployed to the Middle East to bolster U.S. military presence alongside the USS Abraham Lincoln. This move aims to apply pressure on Iran regarding its nuclear program, coinciding with ongoing internal unrest in Iran. The deployment follows recent discussions about potential negotiations with Iran, highlighting the strategic military posture of the U.S. in the region.

The USS Gerald R. Ford is being deployed to the Middle East to bolster U.S. military presence alongside the USS Abraham Lincoln. This move aims to apply pressure on Iran regarding its nuclear program amid ongoing tensions and discussions. The deployment follows warnings from Gulf Arab nations about the risks of regional conflict and coincides with internal unrest in Iran.

Saudi Arabia has signed a contract to acquire four armed C-27J Maritime Patrol Aircraft, enhancing its maritime surveillance and combat capabilities. The aircraft will be equipped with advanced systems for anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare, including MARTE-ER missiles and MU90 torpedoes. This acquisition positions Saudi Arabia as the first operator of this armed variant, marking a significant evolution in its military capabilities.