Analysis & Reports

U.S. forces intercepted five Iranian one-way attack drones near the Strait of Hormuz and prevented a sixth launch from Bandar Abbas. Iran subsequently launched a ballistic missile toward Kuwait, which was intercepted by Kuwaiti forces. The U.S. military conducted strikes against Iranian missile launch sites, indicating continued hostilities despite a ceasefire agreement. As of May 23, the U.S. has redirected 100 ships and disabled four vessels to enforce a blockade against Iran.

Lithuania's State Defense Council authorized the purchase of 936 Patria six-wheel-drive armored personnel carriers for the Lithuanian Army, with a contract expected to be signed in 2027. This acquisition aims to replace the existing fleet of M113 armored personnel carriers and enhance local defense industry collaboration. The decision is part of a broader €6.4 billion defense spending initiative to modernize military capabilities and integrate Lithuanian defense companies into international supply chains.

Ukraine is facing a critical shortage of Patriot missile systems as it requests more interceptors from the U.S. after Russia launched 30 ballistic missiles, intercepting only 11. President Zelenskyy highlighted the urgent need for additional support to maintain effective air defense against ongoing Russian strikes. The reliance on U.S. production and funding from European allies complicates the situation, as NATO must address the imbalance in missile availability.

Alexandra ReevesThu May 28 2026Loading...

Ukraine will purchase 20 new Gripen fighter jets and receive 16 older models from Sweden next year. This agreement follows a letter of intent for up to 150 Gripen jets, with deliveries of the new models expected from 2030. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of these jets for Ukraine's air defense, supported by a €2.5 billion allocation from an EU loan package.

EuroTrophy delivered two Leopard 2A8 tanks integrated with the Trophy Active Protection System to Norway. The company plans to expand its operations across Europe, aiming to integrate the Trophy system into approximately 400 tanks in total for Germany, Norway, and other countries. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to establish a European hub for the Trophy system, with ongoing integration studies for various armored vehicles in response to shifting defense priorities due to the Ukraine war.

Sweden confirmed the sale of 20 new Gripen E/F and 16 used Gripen C/D aircraft to Ukraine on May 28, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen its air force capabilities. This deal is significant for European military cooperation and is linked to a broader EU support loan for Ukraine's defense. President Zelenskyy also reiterated the need for additional Patriot missiles during this time.

Dr. Klaus WeberThu May 28 2026Loading...

Colombian military contractors are operating alongside the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in El Fasher, Sudan, participating in frontline combat and drone operations. U.S. sanctions have targeted networks recruiting these contractors, indicating a significant shift in the operational capabilities of the RSF. The presence of these contractors enhances the RSF's military effectiveness, particularly in drone warfare and coordination of military actions.

Marie DuboisThu May 28 2026Loading...

On May 24, 2023, Russian forces launched a mixed package of 90 missiles and 600 drones against Ukraine, targeting areas including Kyiv and Belaya Tserkov. Ukrainian air defense intercepted 55 missiles and 549 drones, resulting in at least two deaths and multiple injuries. The Oreshnik missile, identified as containing outdated Russian and Belarusian components, raised concerns about its effectiveness as a strategic weapon.

Dmitri VolkovThu May 28 2026Loading...

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius promoted the Type 212CD submarines at the CANSEC defense exhibition in Ottawa, emphasizing the economic benefits of the deal. The contract, potentially worth C$60 billion, aims to enhance NATO's northern flank capabilities. Pistorius's visit marks a shift in Germany's approach to arms exports, as he seeks to secure a joint bid with Norway for up to 12 submarines. A decision from the Canadian government is anticipated by early July.

Airbus signed a partnership agreement with Mistral AI in Paris on 28 May 2026 to enhance the use of artificial intelligence in aerospace applications, including military-specific needs. This collaboration aims to integrate ethical and trustworthy AI into Airbus's operations, focusing on improving flight safety and streamlining workflows. Mistral AI will provide its full product suite to Airbus, enabling advanced AI applications in both commercial and defense sectors.

The Defense Innovation Unit awarded Hermeus an additional $159 million for the development of the Quarterhorse drone in Washington. This funding will support flight tests scheduled for this year and in 2027, with the drone designed to carry payloads at speeds up to Mach 3. Hermeus aims to produce 12 to 15 drones annually, with military applications supported by the Air Force and Navy.

Iran launched missile attacks targeting Kuwait on May 27, 2026, which were intercepted by Kuwaiti air defense systems. The U.S. Central Command labeled the attack a violation of the ceasefire. This incident highlights the challenges faced by Gulf states in maintaining effective air defense amid regional tensions and raises concerns about the adequacy of missile stockpiles.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu May 28 2026Loading...

Sweden announced the donation of 16 Gripen C/D fighter jets to Ukraine on May 28, 2023, and enabled the purchase of up to 20 Gripen E/F aircraft through a €2.5 billion EU loan. Training for Ukrainian pilots is already in progress, with deliveries of the Gripen C/D expected to start in early 2026. This military support is part of Sweden's broader commitment, totaling approximately €11.8 billion since the onset of the conflict.

The U.S. Navy plans to build 15 Trump-class battleships over the next 30 years to enhance its missile capacity and incorporate advanced technologies like lasers and rail guns. The initial phase includes three ships between fiscal years 2027 and 2031, with an estimated cost of $43.5 billion. This initiative aims to address the limitations of current destroyers and improve the Navy's overall combat capabilities.

Ukraine agreed to order up to 20 Gripen E/F fighter jets and will receive a donation of 16 older Gripen C/D aircraft from Sweden. The funding of €2.5 billion will come from the EU's Ukraine Support Loan, with deliveries expected to start early next year. The donation also includes advanced ammunition, enhancing Ukraine's air capabilities.

Russia launched an RS-26 Rubezh missile at Bila Tserkva on May 24, 2026, as part of a larger strike package that included 690 aerial weapons. The missile carried inert warheads, and Ukrainian investigators confirmed the presence of components from Russian and Belarusian manufacturers. The strike marks the third confirmed use of the Oreshnik system, following previous strikes in Dnipro and Lviv.

INKAS® Defense and Aerospace unveiled the INKAS® MLTV and ANURI UAV at CANSEC 2026 in Ottawa on May 28, 2026. The MLTV is a modular light tactical vehicle designed for various military missions, while the ANURI UAV is an AI-powered interceptor for drone threats, capable of rapid deployment and high-speed operation.

China used electronic warfare against HNLMS De Ruyter near the Paracel Islands on May 27, 2023. The Chinese Southern Theater Command accused the Dutch frigate of entering Chinese-claimed waters, employing naval and air forces along with electronic interference. This incident underscores China's efforts to assert control in the South China Sea and test the operational resilience of European naval forces.

Marcus ChenThu May 28 2026Loading...

Armenia displayed Iranian-made Majid AD-08 air defense systems during its Republic Day parade in Yerevan on May 28, 2023. This marks the first known export of the Majid system to a foreign military. The systems, mounted on Iveco Daily vehicles, enhance Armenia's air defense capabilities amid ongoing security concerns following the 2020 Nagorno-Karabakh conflict.

Sweden is preparing to provide Gripen fighter jets to Ukraine as part of a major defense package announced during Zelenskyy's visit on 28 May 2026. The package is expected to include Gripen C/D aircraft, with ongoing discussions about the newer Gripen E. This military support aims to enhance Ukraine's air defense capabilities against Russian threats.

Alexandra ReevesThu May 28 2026Loading...