Analysis & Reports

Exail and INTRA Defense Technologies signed a Memorandum of Understanding in Riyadh on February 26, 2026, to enhance aviation training solutions for the Saudi Ministry of Defense. This partnership aims to develop local capabilities and expertise in the aviation sector, building on over 13 years of collaboration in defense technologies. The agreement supports Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 by focusing on sustainable training development.

Aselsan reported $4.11 billion in revenue for 2025, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. The Turkish defense electronics company secured over $2 billion in new export contracts, including a $410 million deal with Poland for electronic warfare systems. Additionally, Aselsan's backlog rose to $20.4 billion, reflecting a 46% increase. The company emphasized its focus on air defense systems and invested significantly in research and development.

USS Gerald R. Ford is deployed to the Middle East, facing potential military confrontation with Iran. The deployment, which began in June 2022, may extend to 11 months, causing fatigue among the approximately 5,000 sailors on board. Reports indicate issues with the ship's sewage system and crew dissatisfaction, with some considering leaving the Navy. The carrier is expected to dock in Haifa, Israel, after transiting the Mediterranean Sea.

The U.S. military has significantly increased its presence in the Middle East, with over 250 airlift flights and more than 150 aircraft deployed since late February. This buildup includes two carrier strike groups and numerous air defense assets, indicating preparations for potential military action against Iran. Gulf states, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, express alarm over the implications of this military concentration, fearing they may become targets in any conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy's Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier docked at Suda Bay, Crete on the 23rd, while a group of U.S. military refueling and transport aircraft arrived at Ben Gurion Airport near Tel Aviv. This deployment occurs amid heightened tensions with Iran, with further negotiations scheduled for the 26th in Geneva.

The U.S. military is deploying two aircraft carrier strike groups to the Middle East amid concerns over ammunition shortages and lack of support from allies for potential military action against Iran. Iranian forces are conducting military exercises in response to the escalating tensions. The U.S. State Department has ordered non-essential personnel to evacuate from Lebanon due to the heightened security risks. Discussions regarding a potential nuclear agreement or military conflict are ongoing.

Israel's medical system is preparing for a potential long-term war with Iran by reducing hospital operations and relocating patients. The Health Ministry is considering moving some patients home and reallocating doctors to remote areas. Assuta Medical Center is building a 200-bed underground hospital in Tel Aviv to accommodate patients from public hospitals. This preparation aligns with Israel's readiness for possible military action alongside the U.S. against Iran, as indicated by Prime Minister Netanyahu's threats of retaliation.

NATO is struggling to keep pace with Russia's rapid advancements in drone warfare capabilities in the Arctic. Russia is producing over 1.5 million drone units annually and has established dedicated drone units, while NATO lacks sufficient Arctic-ready uncrewed systems. The alliance must address significant logistical and operational challenges to effectively integrate drones into its defense strategy in the region.

The U.S. government plans to construct a large military base in the Gaza Strip, designed to accommodate 5000 personnel and support international stabilization forces. The base will include armored observation towers, shooting ranges, and storage facilities for combat equipment. Indonesia has pledged to send up to 8000 troops to assist in this initiative, which is part of the newly established Peace Committee's efforts to govern Gaza. The construction aims to address security concerns related to Hamas's tunnel network.

The U.S. has deployed approximately 10,700 service members and significant naval and air assets to the Gulf region in response to escalating tensions with Iran. This includes two aircraft carrier strike groups and advanced stealth fighters positioned for potential military strikes. Concurrently, Iran has conducted military exercises with Russian forces, signaling a coordinated response to U.S. actions. Regional allies are on high alert as diplomatic efforts to resolve the crisis continue.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Feb 21 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $96.2 million contract to Exyte US for infrastructure construction to support Israel's CH-53K King Stallion helicopters. The project, located in Israel, is set to be completed by March 23, 2029, and is part of Israel's transition from older helicopter platforms. This initiative is supported by the Foreign Military Sales program, which facilitates military aid and procurement.

Elbit Systems and TKMS inaugurated a new manufacturing facility in Israel on February 18, 2026, for underwater structural components for submarines. This facility aims to enhance Israel's defense manufacturing capabilities and create high-quality jobs in the region. The initiative is part of a long-term partnership between the companies and reflects a strategic investment in Israel's defense industry.

SCOPA Defense Industries is reorienting itself to become a major player in the defense sector, focusing on partnerships and local manufacturing in Riyadh. The company plans to showcase its own products by 2028 and aims to localize 50% of defense production in Saudi Arabia by 2030. SCOPA is currently in the development phase and is targeting partnerships with NATO-aligned organizations.

Elbit Systems secured a $277 million contract for the supply of 30 mm turrets and associated munitions from an undisclosed international customer on February 18, 2026. The contract, which will be executed over three years, includes the delivery of the UT30 MK2 turret designed to enhance the firepower and survivability of armored personnel carriers. The turret can operate in both manned and unmanned configurations and is part of a broader trend towards modular upgrades in armored vehicle systems.

Xinxing Import and Export Company showcased the XX-20 unmanned cargo aircraft at the World Defense Show in Riyadh. This aircraft can operate from rough terrain and is designed for logistical support, capable of carrying 1.2 tonnes of supplies. A new version, the XX-20.1, is expected to be released in mid-2026, with Malaysia as its first export customer.

USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) is undergoing major maintenance and repairs, which are expected to sideline the ship until February 2028. The U.S. Navy has awarded a contract to BAE Systems for repairs worth between $204.1 million and $255.8 million. While currently operating in the Caribbean, the ship's readiness may be impacted by rising tensions with Iran, potentially delaying its maintenance schedule.

Elbit Systems reported record global demand for its Laser Target Designator systems in 2025, reflecting a growing reliance on precision targeting in military operations. The systems, compliant with NATO standards, are increasingly utilized across land and airborne platforms for real-time target designation. This demand is driven by the need for faster targeting cycles and improved coordination in modern battlefield dynamics, particularly with the rise of drone usage.

On February 13, 2026, Gulf countries, including the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Jordan, officially refused to allow their airspace to be used for military operations against Iran. Despite this, they host US military bases that would be targeted in any Iranian retaliation. This contradiction highlights the Gulf states' desire to avoid direct involvement in conflict while providing logistical support for US operations.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Feb 16 2026Loading...

Russia showcased new weapons, including the 300-mm 'Sarma' rocket system and BTR-22 armored personnel carrier, at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh from February 8-12, 2026. Despite ongoing sanctions, Russia continues to expand its artillery production capabilities using imported machinery. The defense industry aims to leverage combat experience in Ukraine to secure export contracts, although this reliance on foreign technology poses long-term risks to its military production capabilities.

Alexandra ReevesSun Feb 15 2026Loading...

Fincantieri plans to boost defense production capacity in Italy and increase revenue by 40% by 2030, driven by rising global defense spending. The company anticipates securing €50 billion in new orders, adding to its existing €60 billion backlog. Additionally, Fincantieri is expanding its undersea business and has signed contracts with foreign customers, including a €200 million deal with Saudi Arabia for torpedoes.