Analysis & Reports

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.

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The Naval Aviation Force of the Eastern Theater Command conducted high-intensity, cross-day and night flight training to enhance operational capabilities. The exercises included various scenarios such as electronic warfare and adverse weather conditions, with multiple aircraft involved. The training was completed successfully, demonstrating readiness for complex operational environments.

NATO is producing a cheaper Patriot interceptor to meet the surging demand for air defense, as Ukraine and nine other countries form a coalition to protect Europe from ballistic missiles. The existing Patriot system faces challenges due to high demand and limited interceptor availability, highlighting the strategic need for increased production capacity. Russia's missile strategy continues to pressure NATO, prompting a reevaluation of defense capabilities across Europe.

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Lockheed Martin and Leonardo signed an agreement to enhance maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the C-130J Super Hercules airlifters across Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. This partnership aims to improve MRO capabilities and efficiency for over 570 C-130Js delivered to 27 countries, strengthening NATO's operational readiness. The agreement builds on a 20-year relationship between the two companies.

Turkey successfully tested the Typhoon Block 3 ballistic missile on July 4, 2026, achieving a direct hit on a small naval target in Syria. This missile, capable of striking moving targets at supersonic speeds, has a range of 560-800 km and is part of Turkey's expanding military capabilities. The test highlights the growing military rivalry between Turkey and Israel, particularly in the context of their interests in Syria.

French nuclear-capable bombers visited a German airfield in July 2023, marking the start of nuclear cooperation between France and Germany. Germany confirmed its participation in upcoming French nuclear exercises, with a focus on joint military operations. A French Rafale jet was hosted at a German air base, symbolizing the strengthening of defense ties. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance nuclear deterrence in Europe, with Germany playing a key role.

BAE Systems unveiled the Brontanax drone at the Farnborough Airshow, designed for electronic warfare and precision strikes. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting attended the event, highlighting the UK's commitment to developing collaborative combat aircraft. The Brontanax is intended for use against airborne and ground targets.

The Israeli Ministry of Defence is enhancing cooperation with German defense companies, expanding into new fields like space. Major Israeli firms are engaged in joint ventures with German counterparts, including the Arrow 3 program valued at $6.5 billion. This collaboration is driven by Germany's rearmament needs and the war in Ukraine, with Europe now accounting for 36% of Israel's defense exports.

On July 18, a Malian military convoy was ambushed near Tabankort, resulting in the deaths of 50 soldiers. The attack was claimed by the Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA). This incident highlights ongoing instability in the region, with previous attacks on Russian reinforcements also reported.

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Residents in Eilat reported hearing explosions on the morning of the 22nd, with white smoke visible in the mountainous area above the city. The explosions are believed to be connected to an attack in Jordan.

The 73rd Group Army conducted live-fire training exercises in Binhai under extreme heat and humidity, focusing on precision shooting and rapid-fire artillery operations. The training aimed to improve combat readiness and operational capabilities, with personnel adapting to environmental challenges. The exercises included monitoring temperature changes to ensure accuracy during firing.

Raytheon secured a $1.8 billion contract extension from the U.S. Navy for the SPY-6 radar family, enhancing naval air defense capabilities. The contract could total $3.3 billion with all options exercised. The SPY-6 systems are being deployed across various Navy vessels, improving threat detection and situational awareness. Raytheon is also expanding its production capacity to meet the anticipated demand for over 50 ships equipped with these radars.

Ireland assumed the Presidency of the Council of the European Union on July 1, 2026, amid ongoing geopolitical tensions. The EU is prioritizing defense investment and military capabilities in response to the war in Ukraine and the US-Iran conflict. Ireland's agenda includes managing defense initiatives and addressing the challenges of regional stability and energy security.

BAE Systems unveiled the BlackThorn modular warhead family, designed for integration into military systems, including the Mark I air defense missile developed by Frankenburg Technologies in Estonia. This new warhead can be configured for various military applications, supporting different damage types. The collaboration aims to enhance air defense capabilities against unmanned aerial threats.

Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned on 3 July 2026 that the coming months could be critical for European security as Russia intensifies pressure on Ukraine. European governments are increasingly concerned about hybrid operations and military provocations, shaping their defense planning. Poland has become NATO's primary hub for supporting Ukraine, reflecting a broader recognition of the strategic challenges ahead.

BAE Systems, Boeing, and Saab formalized a teaming agreement to develop the UK’s next generation pilot training program centered on the T-7A Red Hawk. This initiative includes establishing a new assembly facility in the UK and aims to replace the aging Hawk T2 trainer. The U.S. Air Force has approved the T-7A for manufacturing, highlighting its significance in modernizing pilot training capabilities for the RAF.