Analysis & Reports

BAE Systems is upgrading the GPS in the U.S. Navy’s carrier landing system to the military’s encrypted, jam-resistant M-code signal under a $16 million contract. This upgrade will utilize the DIGAR-500M anti-jam receiver and enhance the Joint Precision Approach and Landing System (JPALS), which guides aircraft during landings in challenging conditions. The integration of M-code technology aims to improve operational safety and effectiveness for naval aviation.

SatVu launched HotSat-3 from Vandenberg Space Force Base on October 1, 2023, marking its second operational satellite. This satellite enhances the company's thermal imaging capabilities, allowing for detailed monitoring of strategic sites and critical infrastructure. HotSat-3 will work alongside HotSat-2, which began operations in June 2023, and is part of SatVu's plan to expand its fleet to approximately 10 satellites for increased surveillance capacity.

The USS Connecticut, a Seawolf-class nuclear attack submarine, is undergoing extensive repairs at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard after being damaged in a 2021 collision. It is scheduled to return to service in summer 2024, with plans for retirement by 2031. The U.S. Navy is modernizing key systems on the submarine, which is one of its most advanced vessels.

The U.S. Congress is considering the Maverick Act, which aims to restore three F-14D fighter jets for airshows. The bill has passed the Senate and is currently under review in the House of Representatives. Restoration efforts will focus on making the aircraft flyable while ensuring they are demilitarized and cannot be used in combat. Significant technical challenges remain, particularly regarding the aircraft's wing box.

The U.S. Navy's A-6 Intruder, operational from 1963 to 1997, was a highly capable strike aircraft that could carry 18,000 pounds of bombs. It was powered by Pratt & Whitney J-52 turbojet engines and could perform complex maneuvers, including 5g turns, even when fully loaded. The aircraft was notable for its ability to operate in all weather conditions and was a significant advancement over its predecessor, the A-1 Skyraider. During the Vietnam War, it faced significant losses, with 84 units shot down.

On October 1, 2023, the Saudi-led coalition intercepted and destroyed two ballistic missiles and four drones launched by Houthi forces towards Khamis Mushait and Jazan. Debris from the intercepted missiles caused damage to buildings and vehicles in Khamis Mushait. The coalition continues to take operational measures to deter Houthi forces, following previous drone attacks on Saudi infrastructure.

NASA is exploring the possibility of restoring the SR-71 Blackbird to flyable condition at Edwards Air Force Base. This initiative faces significant challenges, including the destruction of spare parts and the need for specialized equipment and expertise. The restoration is complicated by the aircraft's unique design and high operational costs, raising questions about its practicality compared to modern alternatives.

The SR-71 Blackbird, tail number 844, is reported missing from its display at Edwards Air Force Base, California. NASA is exploring potential plans to restore the aircraft for new test flights, with former engineers from the program being approached for involvement. The agency has acknowledged interest in the SR-71 but has not confirmed any specific restoration plans.

NASA is reportedly exploring plans to return the retired SR-71 Blackbird to flight status, with the aircraft missing from its display at Edwards Air Force Base, California. Former engineers from the SR-71 program have been approached for involvement in this initiative. However, significant challenges remain, including the lack of available spare parts since their destruction in 2007.

RTX’s Raytheon unit secured a $24.4 billion multiyear contract to produce Standard Missile-6 interceptors for the U.S. Navy, aimed at replenishing munitions stockpiles. This contract, awarded on Thursday, is part of the Pentagon's efforts to enhance weapons production amid rising demand. The SM-6 missile is capable of both offensive and defensive operations.

The U.S. Air Force developed JP-7 fuel for the SR-71 Blackbird to prevent ignition at high speeds. This specialized fuel has a flash point of 140 degrees Fahrenheit and requires unique handling procedures. Additionally, 56 Stratotankers were modified to exclusively transport JP-7 fuel for the aircraft's operational needs.

The U.S. Army established permanent test lanes for counter-drone weapons at Yuma Proving Ground in September 2025, as part of Falcon Peak 26.2. This operational experiment involved various systems from multiple vendors, focusing on drone detection, jamming, and kinetic engagement. The Army also awarded $4.15 billion in contracts to enhance domestic counter-drone capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force ordered four MH-139A Grey Wolf helicopters on September 25, 2023, marking the first full-rate production of the aircraft for nuclear missile security. These helicopters will replace the UH-1N Huey at Malmstrom, F.E. Warren, and Minot Air Force Bases. The contract, valued at around $85 million, supports the service's mission to secure national assets across strategic missile fields.

Echodyne has been awarded a contract worth up to $250 million to support counter-drone operations under the JIATF-401's Domestic Shield programme in the United States.

U.S. Northern Command conducted the Falcon Peak 26.2 counter-drone exercise at Yuma Proving Ground from August 31 to September 25, 2026, testing new technologies against cartel drones. The exercise recorded 378 detections, 75 turnbacks, and 15 engagements, including the use of a high-energy laser system to down two drones. The primary threat identified was reconnaissance drones supporting human trafficking operations.

The U.S. Navy canceled the Constellation-class frigate program due to significant design inefficiencies and is now replacing it with an upgraded variant of the Coast Guard Legend-class National Security Cutter. The original plan involved building 20 ships at a projected cost of over $22 billion, but the program was deemed unfeasible after extensive design changes. The Navy is now allocating $283 million for early work on the new system, which has passed its critical design review.

Neros Technologies and Perennial Autonomy led the Pentagon's Drone Dominance competition, with Neros receiving an order for 14,000 drones and Perennial for 8,000. Neros' Archer AI drone features autonomous targeting capabilities, while Perennial's Merops interceptor was designed for counter-drone operations. The Defense Department aims to invest $1 billion in the domestic drone market, with further testing phases scheduled.

The U.S. Department of Defense awarded Boeing a $20 billion contract to manufacture the F/A-XX fighter for the U.S. Navy. This sixth-generation aircraft is designed to enhance air superiority and range, and will be compatible with both manned and unmanned platforms. The specifics of the aircraft remain classified, but it represents a significant advancement in naval aviation capabilities.

NASA is attempting to return the SR-71A Blackbird to flight status after it was removed from display at Edwards Air Force Base in California. The aircraft, which has been on display since 1999, faces significant restoration challenges due to its age and the disposal of spare parts. NASA is looking for retired personnel familiar with the aircraft to assist in the effort.

DARPA is soliciting industry input to develop a new hypersonic cruise missile that surpasses existing designs in range, speed, and altitude. The request for information was issued on September 30, 2023, with responses due by November 6, 2023. The agency seeks innovative concepts and technologies to facilitate rapid production and effective testing of the missile.