Analysis & Reports

USS Wisconsin (BB-64) was commissioned in 1944 and served in multiple conflicts, including World War II and the Korean War. The battleship was modernized in the 1980s and participated in Operation Desert Storm, firing its last combat shots in February 1991. Currently, it serves as a museum ship in Norfolk, Virginia.

Russia's military casualties in Ukraine have exceeded 1.2 million as of January 2026, with daily losses often surpassing 1,000. The Russian Armed Forces are engaged in a war of attrition, relying on older equipment and continuous recruitment to sustain their efforts. The government has invested heavily in compensating families of casualties to maintain domestic support, while military spending has reached 40% of federal expenditures.

The last nuclear arms control treaty between the U.S. and Russia is set to expire on February 5, 2026, raising concerns about a potential new arms race. Russian officials, including Medvedev, have warned that the absence of the treaty could erode trust and lead to increased nuclear deployments. The treaty currently limits each country to 1,550 deployed strategic nuclear warheads, and its expiration may significantly alter the nuclear landscape.

CSG and HDS are forming a joint venture named Hellenic Ammunition in Greece to produce large-calibre ammunition. This initiative aims to enhance the local defense manufacturing capabilities.

Leonardo unveiled the Hystrix 40 ADS, an advanced air defense system based on the Marlin 40 turret, in Brescia, northern Italy, in January 2026. This system is designed to counter unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and is part of a broader initiative to enhance air defense capabilities. The Hystrix 40 ADS is currently in development, with Leonardo securing contracts for its deployment in a Far East country.

The Russian Aerospace Forces (VKS) have suffered significant losses in combat aircraft since February 2022, with 361 aircraft lost, including 299 destroyed. In response, the VKS has adapted its tactics, relying on stand-off strikes and glide bombs while reducing airspace penetration. The aging fleet, with many aircraft over 30 years old, faces challenges in maintaining operational capacity. Despite these adaptations, the VKS continues to struggle with high attrition rates and operational effectiveness in Ukraine.

Rheinmetall has secured a contract with the Dutch armed forces for the supply of hand grenades. This framework agreement indicates a commitment to ongoing supply, enhancing the military capabilities of the Netherlands.

Russia's armored forces in Ukraine have suffered over 4,308 tank losses and 8,735 armored infantry fighting vehicles since the invasion began in 2022. The military is increasingly relying on older models like T-62s and T-54/55 due to significant losses of modern equipment. Design flaws in Russian tanks contribute to catastrophic failures, leading to high casualty rates among crews. The ongoing conflict has resulted in approximately 1.2 million Russian casualties, indicating a critical situation for the Russian military.

Poland's Ministry of National Defence signed a PLN 15 billion ($4.2 billion) deal with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace and PGZ for counter-unmanned aerial systems to protect its airspace from Russian drone incursions. The agreement, signed on January 30, 2026, includes 18 anti-drone batteries and 703 vehicles, with deliveries expected to start in 2026. This initiative is part of Poland's broader strategy to enhance its military capabilities amid ongoing regional threats.

The USS Missouri (BB-63) was commissioned in 1944 and played a significant role in World War II, including the Japanese surrender ceremony. It later served in the Korean War and the Persian Gulf War, showcasing its adaptability with modern weaponry. Decommissioned in 1992, it now serves as a memorial at Pearl Harbor, representing American naval power and engineering excellence.

FN Herstal achieved CMMC Level 2 cybersecurity certification on 02 February 2026 in Herstal, Belgium. This certification, granted by the US Department of War, positions FN Herstal among the first European companies to meet stringent cybersecurity standards. The certification enhances FN Herstal's competitiveness in securing defense contracts and demonstrates its commitment to high cybersecurity maturity.

Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania held a meeting in Tallinn to discuss the establishment of a Military Mobility Area as part of NATO's Eastern Flank strategy. This initiative aims to enhance military cooperation and mobility among the Baltic States.

Teledyne FLIR Defense received a $17.5 million contract from armasuisse on February 2, 2026, to deliver a large number of Black Hornet 4 nano-drones for reconnaissance. These drones will be integrated with the Piranha 8×8 Armored engineering vehicle, enhancing situational awareness for vehicle crews. The Black Hornet 4 features advanced capabilities, including real-time video streaming and target data generation.

Rheinmetall signed a multi-year framework contract with the Royal Netherlands Army for the production of approximately 15 types of hand grenades on 30 January 2026. The contract, valued in the double-digit million euro range, allows flexible procurement throughout its five-year term, with a possible two-year extension. Production will occur at Rheinmetall's facilities in Trittau and Silberhütte, Germany, and Schwanenstadt, Austria.

Leonardo unveiled the Hystrix 76 ADS, a new land-based air defense system, at its facility in Brescia, northern Italy. The system, based on the 76/62 mm naval gun, is designed for remote operation and can fire various types of ammunition. A prototype is expected to be ready by the end of 2025, showcasing capabilities against aerial threats, including drones.

Lithuanian defense units demonstrated the capabilities of the Hornet XR reconnaissance drones during a recent high-level visit. The Hornet XR, developed by Granta Autonomy, features a range of up to 50 kilometers and is designed for unit-level intelligence collection. This demonstration highlights Lithuania's efforts to enhance its reconnaissance capabilities amid a deteriorating security environment in the region.

The UK government has formally rejected calls to develop a second nuclear delivery system, reaffirming its commitment to a submarine-based deterrent. This decision follows scrutiny from the Defence Committee regarding rising nuclear threats. The UK will enhance its NATO role through the procurement of F-35A aircraft while continuing to invest in its nuclear capabilities, including the existing warhead program and the development of a replacement warhead.

The Swiss government approved the procurement of Black Hornet 4 nano-drones for integration with Piranha 8×8 armored vehicles, following a $17.5 million contract awarded to Teledyne FLIR Defense on February 2, 2026. The drones will enhance reconnaissance capabilities by providing real-time data sharing with vehicle crews. The first integrated systems were delivered in 2025, with remaining deliveries scheduled for 2026.

Italy's Defense Minister Guido Crosetto publicly criticized British secrecy in the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), highlighting trust issues among European partners. Norway's choice of South Korean systems over European options indicates a shift in defense procurement. These developments threaten the future of collaborative defense programs and reflect broader challenges in European defense integration.

Marcus ChenMon Feb 02 2026Loading...

Norway's Ministry of Defense selected Hanwha Aerospace's Chunmoo K239 Multiple Launch Rocket System over HIMARS in February 2026, marking a significant shift in defense procurement strategies. This $2 billion decision prioritizes technical specifications and cost-effectiveness, reflecting evolving NATO dynamics. The Chunmoo's extended range and munition flexibility are key advantages, indicating growing confidence in South Korean defense capabilities.

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