Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy deployed 188 Lockheed S-3 Viking aircraft primarily for anti-submarine warfare, but they never achieved any submarine kills. Instead, during the 1991 Persian Gulf War, these aircraft successfully targeted Iraqi missile sites and naval vessels. The S-3 Vikings were retired in 2016, with some preserved for historical purposes.

The USS North Carolina and USS Washington, two North Carolina-class battleships, were constructed during the treaty era and served in the Pacific during World War II. USS Washington notably sank an enemy battleship in a one-on-one engagement, while USS North Carolina survived a torpedo hit due to enhanced armor. Both ships played significant roles in naval operations, showcasing heavy firepower and resilience against enemy threats.

Taiwan is upgrading its F-16 fleet and constructing 26 hardened aircraft shelters to enhance its military readiness against potential threats from the People's Liberation Army. Recent reports indicate that F-16Vs turned back to Hawaii shortly after departure, highlighting operational challenges. The Taiwan Air Force is focused on improving logistics and infrastructure to ensure the fleet can effectively respond to threats.

Marcus ChenTue Sep 08 2026Loading...

In 1916, a board of five retired generals reviewed all 2,625 Medals of Honor awarded by the US Army, revoking 911, including 864 given to the 27th Maine Volunteer Infantry Regiment, which did not engage in combat. The review revealed issues such as clerical errors and inappropriate award criteria, leading to significant controversies regarding the integrity of the Medal of Honor. The report also mentions the case of Dr. Mary Edwards Walker, whose medal faced revocation due to gender bias.

Sweden signed a contract to purchase Lockheed Martin's M142 HIMARS rocket artillery system for approximately $733 million. The first deliveries are scheduled for 2027, aimed at enhancing the Swedish Armed Forces' long-range capabilities. This acquisition reflects Sweden's commitment to European security and includes plans for a new rocket artillery unit by 2024. Additionally, Sweden and Finland agreed to cooperate on rocket artillery training and supply.

Poland unveiled its new heavy infantry fighting vehicle, the CBWP, at the MSPO 2026 arms fair in Kielce. The vehicle is designed to carry a crew of three and eight soldiers, featuring advanced armament and protection systems. A framework agreement for the supply of several hundred units was signed with the Armament Agency in August 2023.

China and Singapore conducted the 'Maritime Cooperation-2026' joint naval exercise in Zhanjiang in early September 2026. The Chinese Navy deployed the 054A-class missile frigate Dali, while the Singapore Navy sent the Fighting-class frigate. The exercise featured phases including underwater operations and joint rescue missions, highlighting ongoing military cooperation between the two nations.

The 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum is set to take place in Beijing from September 15 to 17, 2023, with preparations nearly complete. The forum will host leaders from various countries' defense sectors and military organizations, focusing on international security and governance. It aims to foster dialogue on key security issues and promote a platform for communication among different parties.

Axon Vision secured its first order for the ForceField counter-drone system from an Israeli defense organization, valued at approximately $5 million, announced on September 7. The system, designed to protect military assets from drone threats, utilizes AI technology and can be integrated into existing vehicles. This order follows successful live-fire trials and marks a significant step in the company's transition to commercial operations.

Russia conducted a strike on Kyiv on September 8, 2026, killing three and injuring 16. Ukraine's President Zelenskyy emphasized the urgent need for additional Patriot missiles to enhance air defense capabilities. The attack occurred amid diplomatic efforts, highlighting the ongoing military threat and the imbalance in defense resources.

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Kaja Kallas canceled the launch of a high-level advisory group on European defense in Vienna on September 6, 2023, following opposition from Germany, Italy, and France. The group aimed to address defense capability gaps in Europe but faced pushback regarding its necessity and potential duplication of existing efforts. This incident highlights ongoing tensions within the EU regarding defense policy and planning.

Brazil's Army and Avibras Aeroco successfully tested the MTC-300 cruise missile at the Marambaia Test Range in Rio de Janeiro on August 26. This test marks a significant milestone in the missile's certification process after a four-year delay due to financial issues. The MTC-300 is designed to strike targets up to 300 kilometers away and is part of the ASTROS artillery system.

On September 8, Chinese and Laotian military units commenced the 'Peace Train-2026' joint humanitarian medical rescue exercise in Vientiane. The exercise involved mixed teams from both nations, focusing on establishing medical facilities and training in the use of drones and robotic equipment for medical operations. This training aims to enhance cooperation and operational readiness between the two militaries.

Hanwha Aerospace and Hanwha Systems are showcasing advanced defense technologies at MSPO 2026 in Kielce, Poland, from September 8 to 11. The exhibit includes air defense systems, unmanned vehicles, and artillery systems, highlighting their ongoing partnership with Poland. Notable displays include the L-SAM missile launcher and the Cheon gwang laser weapon system, alongside plans for future contracts for K9 howitzers.

ImageSat International unveiled the EROS NOVA satellite on September 8, 2023, in Israel. This satellite is capable of capturing high-resolution imagery at 25 centimeters, integrating multiple sensing technologies including short-wave infrared. It features onboard AI for real-time data analysis, enhancing operational responsiveness for intelligence organizations.

FlyFocus unveiled the TASACK precision loitering munition at the MSPO 2026 exhibition in Kielce on September 8, 2026. The drone, weighing 15 kilograms, can fly 110 kilometers and carry a 5-kilogram payload. It features a user-friendly interface for target selection and achieves high targeting accuracy. Production readiness is anticipated in the first quarter of 2027.

Russian forces conducted airstrikes on September 8, 2023, targeting military logistics centers and defense industry facilities in Kyiv and Odesa. The strikes involved precision weapons and drones, marking a resumption of attacks after a three-day pause. Explosions were reported in Kyiv as part of this large-scale military operation.

U.S. and Indonesian forces conducted a live-fire exercise at Baturaja Combat Training Center on September 4 and 7, 2026, as part of the Super Garuda Shield exercise. The event involved approximately 4,700 personnel from 21 countries, utilizing various rocket artillery systems and combat aircraft. This exercise aimed to enhance cooperation and operational effectiveness between the U.S. and Indonesian military forces.

U.S. and Russian military aircraft will appear together at the El Alamein International Airshow on September 8, 2026, showcasing their capabilities. The U.S. Air Force is sending various aircraft, including C-130 and F-16 models, while Russia will display its Su-57E stealth fighter. This event emphasizes the longstanding defense relationship between the U.S. and Egypt, as well as Egypt's balancing act in maintaining ties with both nations.

The U.S. Air Force intends to purchase 60 DroneBuster 5 handheld counter-drone jammers for its Pacific forces, as announced in a solicitation on September 8, 2026. The purchase is pending funding availability. The DroneBuster 5 is designed to enhance the ability to detect and defeat small drones in the Indo-Pacific region.