Analysis & Reports

Honeywell Aerospace's Mike Vallillo highlighted the capabilities of Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs) for manned-unmanned missions, including reconnaissance and combat operations, during the Farnborough International Airshow. He emphasized the need for CCAs to reach their full potential in these roles.

The U.S. Army awarded a $98.7 million contract modification to AM General for Humvee production, increasing the total contract value to over $3.2 billion. This contract is part of an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity agreement expected to last until August 28, 2027. Despite plans to transition to the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, production issues have led to continued demand for Humvees, including foreign military sales.

Three U.S. soldiers were killed in an Iranian attack on Muwaffaq Salti Air Base in Jordan on July 17, 2023. The deceased include Sgt. Angel S. Rampersad, Pvt. Isabella Gonzales, and 1st Lt. Tyler James Feehan. Four other troops were injured in the attack but have since returned to duty. This incident is part of a broader conflict involving U.S. forces and Iranian military actions.

The U.S. Army awarded a $447 million contract to TCOM LP for the production and support of Persistent Surveillance Systems-Tethered aerostats at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. This contract, expected to last until July 20, 2031, aims to enhance the Army's surveillance capabilities with aerostats that can operate continuously for weeks. TCOM's aerostats will provide 360-degree coverage and support military operations, reflecting the Army's commitment to maintaining and expanding its surveillance systems.

BAE Systems unveiled the Brontanax unmanned fighter jet at the Farnborough Airshow, aiming to enter the competitive Collaborative Combat Aircraft market. The jet is set to begin flight testing next year and could enter service by 2030. BAE has invested heavily in the project independently and anticipates securing orders from the UK and other nations. The Brontanax is designed to offer significant capabilities at a lower cost compared to traditional fighter jets.

The Pentagon awarded Rocket Lab USA a $266 million contract for 12 confirmed suborbital launches at the Pacific Spaceport Complex in Alaska, aimed at testing hypersonic weapons technology. The contract, which runs through the end of 2028, involves the HASTE vehicle designed for mid-flight payload release. This move enhances the military's capability to test hypersonic systems over open ocean, providing a strategic advantage.

BAE Systems is supporting the local manufacturing of Light Gun artillery in Ukraine through a new licensing agreement with its strategic defense partner.

Ukrainian forces launched over 400 drones against Moscow and surrounding areas from July 19 to 20, 2023, marking one of the largest attacks to date. Concurrently, Russian forces executed a significant missile strike on Kyiv, firing approximately 40 ballistic missiles targeting military supplies. Both sides are engaged in extensive strikes against each other's logistics and industrial facilities, aiming to disrupt military operations and supply chains.

NODA AI secured a $10 million contract from the Department of War to develop software enabling military drones to operate effectively despite communication disruptions. This initiative is part of the Multi-Domain Collaborative Autonomy program, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of various unmanned platforms. The software will ensure that drones can maintain a commander's intent even under jamming or cyberattack conditions, advancing the integration of autonomous systems across different domains.

Pakistani security forces conducted counter-terrorism operations in Balochistan on July 22, 2023, killing 10 terrorists. The operations took place in Sorab and Mastung, where 7 terrorists were killed in Sorab and 3 in Mastung. Additionally, 2 suicide bombers and their accomplices were arrested, and various weapons and explosives were seized.

Ukrainian forces targeted and reported damage to 13 Russian vessels in the Black and Azov Seas on July 21-22, 2026. The operation included 10 cargo ships, 2 tugboats, and 1 tanker, indicating a strategic shift in Ukraine's naval engagement. This campaign aims to disrupt Russian maritime logistics, highlighting vulnerabilities in their supply chain.

Dmitri VolkovWed Jul 22 2026Loading...

A new batch of 60 Stryker armored vehicles has arrived in Thailand for the Royal Thai Army under the Excess Defense Articles program. This delivery follows a previous transfer of Stryker vehicles and is part of a broader effort to enhance Thailand's military capabilities amid regional tensions. The vehicles are equipped with advanced features for improved operational effectiveness.

Turkey tested the Typhoon Block 3 missile on July 4, 2026, successfully hitting a small maritime target. The missile, with a range of 800 km, poses a potential threat to Israel, as it can target moving vessels in the Eastern Mediterranean. This development raises concerns for Israel regarding Turkey's growing military capabilities and its implications for regional security.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Jul 22 2026Loading...

The 72nd Group Army of the People's Liberation Army conducted amphibious training exercises on the Southeast Coast, involving dozens of amphibious armored vehicles. The training focused on realistic scenarios such as beach landings and wave formations, with soldiers enduring high temperatures and humidity. This exercise aimed to enhance combat readiness in challenging conditions.

The 74th Group Army conducted live-fire tactical exercises in China, testing the unit's mobility and firepower capabilities. After completing initial firing rounds, the unit quickly relocated to a backup position upon detection by enemy reconnaissance. Artillery teams successfully engaged enemy fire points, demonstrating effective rapid fire support skills under complex conditions.

Ukrainian drone attacks caused 3 deaths and multiple injuries in Russia on July 22, 2023. Russian air defense intercepted 242 drones, while Russian forces retaliated by destroying 2 ships and damaging port facilities in Odessa. The attacks also resulted in civilian casualties in Belgorod and Krasnodar Krai, with 5 injuries reported at a logistics center in Stavropol Krai.

The Jordanian Armed Forces intercepted and shot down 4 missiles and 4 drones launched from Iran on July 22. Two additional missiles fell in remote areas without causing casualties or damage. The military is actively monitoring Jordan's airspace and remains in a state of readiness to respond to any threats.

The Bulgarian parliament's Defence Committee approved a draft decision allowing U.S. military operations against Iran from Bezmer Air Base. This includes the deployment of up to 250 U.S. troops and 8 Boeing KC-135 tanker aircraft between July 24 and October 1. The decision follows a U.S. request and is supported by the ruling Progressive Bulgaria party, despite Iranian threats against Bulgaria's cooperation with the U.S.

The U.S. Navy laid down the USS Kentucky in Norfolk, Virginia, in 1942 but never completed her. Parts of the unfinished battleship were used to repair USS Wisconsin in 1956, and her engines were repurposed for other naval vessels. The Kentucky was ultimately sold for scrapping in 1958 after remaining inactive for years.

China conducted a submarine-launched ballistic missile test on July 6, 2026, in the South Pacific, demonstrating a range of 7,300km. The missile likely overflew parts of the Philippines and indicates a shift in China's military strategy towards enhanced deterrence capabilities. This test coincided with joint military activities with Russia, highlighting a growing military presence in the region.

Marcus ChenWed Jul 22 2026Loading...