Analysis & Reports

Voyager Technologies has commenced construction on an expansion project at the Voyager American Defense Complex in Pueblo, Colorado. This development focuses on enhancing missile defense capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force is addressing challenges in expanding its combat search and rescue (CSAR) capabilities amid potential conflicts, particularly with China. Plans to purchase 75 HH-60W helicopters have been reduced from an initial 112, highlighting budget constraints and the need for modernization. The Air Force estimates it requires around 200 rescue aircraft to effectively respond to multiple crises, while exploring new technologies and tactics to enhance operational effectiveness in future conflicts.

The U.S. Army unveiled the M1E3 Abrams tank at the Detroit Auto Show on January 17, 2026. This new 60-ton tank is designed to enhance mobility and survivability against modern threats, including drone attacks and anti-tank weapons. It will feature advanced sensors, a diesel-electric hybrid engine, and capabilities for manned-unmanned teaming, integrating AI for improved operational effectiveness.

Lockheed Martin and the US Department of Defense have reached a framework agreement to significantly increase THAAD interceptor manufacturing capacity, boosting annual output fourfold. This agreement reflects a strategic move to enhance the production of missile defense systems in the United States.

The U.S. Space Force is planning to issue a contract this summer to create a pool of vendors for hands-on training in electronic, cyber, and orbital warfare. This initiative includes the development of an orbital training range to enhance operational capabilities. The acquisition strategy for this program is nearing completion, following a gap analysis conducted in December 2022.

In 2026, tensions are expected to escalate in multiple regions, including Greenland, Ukraine, Taiwan, Iran, and India-Pakistan. U.S. military readiness is under scrutiny as President Trump has threatened action over Greenland, while Ukraine faces ongoing conflict with Russia. China may see an opportunity to act against Taiwan, and Iran's internal crisis could provoke external military responses. The rivalry between India and Pakistan remains dangerous, with both nations emboldened after recent clashes.

The U.S. Army awarded Raytheon a $1.03 billion contract modification for the production of the Lower Tier Air and Missile Defense Sensor (LTAMDS) at Redstone Arsenal, Alabama. This contract supports Year Two production requirements and is set to continue through March 31, 2030. LTAMDS is intended to replace the legacy Patriot radar, providing enhanced 360-degree air and missile defense capabilities.

The U.S. Navy is developing Trump-class battleships equipped with 32-megajoule railguns, aiming for production within two to three years. However, significant technical challenges, including power supply and barrel durability, have led to a pause in the railgun program. The Navy is considering alternative weapon systems and improvements to existing defenses like the Aegis Weapon System to address emerging threats from China and Russia.

The U.S. Navy's first Trump-class battleship, USS Defiant, is projected to cost between $14.3 billion and $22 billion, depending on procurement timing. The design phase is set for the early 2030s, with follow-on ships estimated to cost between $9 billion and $15 billion each. The program faces significant challenges, including labor shortages and supply chain issues, impacting the industrial base necessary for construction.

Northrop Grumman successfully tested the BAMM!29 2.0 solid rocket motor in Promontory, Utah, on January 29, 2026. This test follows the successful static test of the SMASH!22 motor in December 2025. The BAMM!29 2.0, developed under the SMART Demo program, features advanced materials and technologies, demonstrating rapid advancements in solid rocket motor capabilities.

The U.S. military is mobilizing forces in the Middle East, with the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group heading towards Iran amid rising tensions. Increased deployments of aircraft and naval vessels have been observed at U.S. bases in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Iran has responded by mobilizing its strategic drones and issuing warnings against potential U.S. military actions.

Poland supplied 24 M120 Rak self-propelled mortar systems and 12 command post vehicles to Ukraine in April 2023, with operational deployment occurring by Q3 2023. The US Army is developing the AMPV, which includes a prototype fitted with the NEMO 120 mm turreted mortar system. The M120 Rak systems are noted for their rapid deployment capabilities and high rates of fire.

The U.S. has historically developed military capabilities in Greenland, emphasizing its strategic importance since World War II. The Thule Air Base remains a critical asset for U.S. defense, equipped with advanced missile warning systems. Recent agreements with Denmark allow U.S. operations in Greenland, reflecting ongoing military interests amid rising Arctic tensions with Russia.

The U.S. 'Iron Dome' missile defense system program has made little progress after one year due to technical disputes and concerns over space-based components. Funding of $25 billion allocated last year remains largely unspent as discussions on the system's architecture continue. Contracts for competing missile defense prototypes were awarded to several companies, but the program's completion before 2028 is deemed unlikely.

The U.S. Navy's proposed guided-missile battleship program, BBG(X), faces scrutiny due to projected costs of $13.5 billion per ship and labor shortages in shipbuilding. The first ship, BBG-1 USS Defiant, is part of the Trump-class initiative, which may not materialize as planned due to financial constraints and potential cancellation by future administrations. The program aims to create a conventionally powered battleship equipped with advanced weaponry.

The U.S. Navy canceled the A-12 Avenger II program on January 7, 1991, due to significant cost overruns and manufacturing challenges. The only prototype built was a mockup, which is now displayed at a museum. Following the cancellation, the Navy transitioned to the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet as a replacement for its aging aircraft.

Iran has heightened its military readiness and rhetoric in response to U.S. threats as 30,000 to 40,000 American troops are stationed in the Middle East. The USS Abraham Lincoln and other military assets have been deployed to the region. Iran's armed forces are prepared to counter any aggression, reflecting a tense standoff amid stalled negotiations over its nuclear program and military capabilities.

Iran has increased its military readiness in response to the U.S. deployment of 30,000 to 40,000 troops in the Middle East. The USS Abraham Lincoln and other military assets have been positioned to deter potential aggression. Iranian officials have warned of a strong retaliation if attacked, highlighting the heightened tensions and lack of progress in diplomatic negotiations.

The U.S. Navy's A-12 Avenger II program was canceled on January 7, 1991, due to cost overruns and manufacturing difficulties, resulting in only a mockup being built. The Navy had planned to acquire 620 units, but the project faced significant challenges, leading to its termination and subsequent litigation over funding returns. The cancellation occurred shortly before the Persian Gulf War, during which the effectiveness of stealth technology was publicly demonstrated by the F-117.

Tricare officials announced that starting March 1, 2024, active-duty military families will experience slight increases in their monthly dental premiums. For example, the premium for one family member of an active-duty service member in pay grades E-4 and below will rise by $0.14 to $8.79. The largest increase will affect nonmobilized Individual Ready Reserve members, whose premiums will increase by $1.72 to $105.48.