Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
WDS 2026 – China Xinxing showcases its XX-20 unmanned cargo aircraft and announces new version to fly soon
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.
The D Brief: Second carrier to Mideast; Hormuz closure; AI fallout at DOD; El Paso drone weapon; And a bit more.
Iran closed portions of the Strait of Hormuz for live-fire military exercises amid ongoing nuclear negotiations with the U.S. The U.S. Navy is deploying a second aircraft carrier, USS Gerald R. Ford, to the Middle East, while preparations for potential military operations against Iran are underway. U.S. officials indicated that these operations could target Iranian state and security facilities, not just nuclear infrastructure.
Israel’s F-15I Ra’am Has a Deep-Strike Advantage the F-15EX Eagle II Fighter Is Missing
The F-15I Ra’am, used by the Israeli Air Force since the late 1990s, is optimized for long-range precision strikes, featuring Israeli-specific avionics and heavy payload capabilities. In contrast, the U.S. Air Force's F-15EX Eagle II focuses on air superiority and modernization for fifth-generation aircraft support. Both aircraft represent different operational philosophies and requirements within their respective air forces.
Israel’s Air Force Has Special ‘Custom Modified’ F-35 Fighter Built to Strike Iran at Any Moment
Israel has customized its F-35I Adir fighter jets to enhance electronic warfare capabilities against Iranian threats. The Israeli Air Force is set to acquire an additional 25 F-35 stealth fighters in 2024, reflecting its focus on regional security. These modifications include advanced jamming systems and integration of Israeli weapons, enabling effective countermeasures against ground-based air defenses.
A War Against Iran Could Open Up a Pandora’s Box That Won’t Be Easy To Close
The U.S. Armed Forces are preparing for a potential strike campaign against Iran's nuclear and military infrastructure in 2025. This operation could significantly damage Iran's capabilities but may also provoke retaliation from Iranian proxies, expanding the conflict. The U.S. would need to maintain a sustained military presence in the region to manage the escalation and potential energy market disruptions.
U.S. Navy ‘Mini’ Aircraft Carrier Assault Ship USS Iwo Jima Could Be Out of Action Until February 2028
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.
Turkish KAAN Aircraft with Saudi Flag at Riyadh Exhibition — Are Riyadh and Ankara Creating an Alternative to Western Weapons or Paying the Price of Independence with Uncalculated Costs?
Turkey and Saudi Arabia signed multiple defense agreements in February 2026, focusing on the joint development of the KAAN fighter jet and other military platforms. The agreements signal a strategic partnership aimed at reducing reliance on Western military supplies. The KAAN jet is still under development, with first deliveries not expected before 2029, while Saudi Arabia aims for 50% localization of defense production by 2030.
Ahmed Al-RashidTue Feb 17 2026Loading...WDS 2026 – A Sphere™ protection against drones by AirShields, based on soft/hard kill effectors
AirShields showcased its Sphere AI-based counter-drone solution at the World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia in 2026. The system includes the Barq™ mini missile and Jidar™ bomb, designed to neutralize various classes of drones. The Barq™ missile has a range of 2 km, while the Jidar™ bomb can target larger drones and swarms. The technology is developed in Saudi Arabia and is in full production.
Elbit reports record demand for laser targeting systems
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.
Before the New Round of Negotiations with Iran, the U.S. Increases Troops to Apply Pressure
The U.S. military is significantly increasing its presence in the Middle East, redeploying aircraft and extending troop deployments in response to ongoing negotiations with Iran. Recent weeks have seen dozens of military transport aircraft delivering equipment to Jordan, Bahrain, and Saudi Arabia, while F-15 fighter jets have been stationed at a base in Jordan. A second aircraft carrier strike group is also being sent to the region as a show of force ahead of talks scheduled for the 17th in Geneva.
The aircraft carriers Abraham Lincoln and Gerald Ford advance towards the Gulf — Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman urge Washington to avoid war
USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln are advancing towards the Gulf in February 2026 amid ongoing U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations in Geneva. Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman, are expressing concerns and urging Washington to avoid military conflict. The presence of over 35,000 U.S. troops in the region complicates the security dynamics, as Gulf nations balance their strategic interests with the risks posed by Iran's military capabilities.
Ahmed Al-RashidTue Feb 17 2026Loading...U.S. Continues to Increase Troops in the Middle East Ahead of New Round of Talks with Iran
The U.S. continues to bolster its military presence in the Middle East, deploying dozens of aircraft and extending the deployment of troops ahead of indirect negotiations with Iran. Recent movements include the repositioning of fighter jets to Jordan and the delivery of air defense systems to the region. A second aircraft carrier strike group is also being sent to enhance military readiness.
WDS 2026 – KSA GADD unveils new LTM 10 loitering munition and ARB free-fall ordnance for UAVs
The General Authority for Defense Development (GADD) of Saudi Arabia unveiled the LTM 10 loitering munition and ARB free-fall ordnance at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in 2026. The LTM 10 is a man-portable system with a range of 15 km and a 15-minute endurance, while the ARB is designed for UAV deployment with various warhead options.
Saudi Arabia buys C-27 cargo planes fitted for armed maritime patrols
Saudi Arabia is purchasing four C-27J tactical air lifters for armed maritime patrols, with deliveries expected to start in 2029. The aircraft will be equipped to carry torpedoes, anti-ship missiles, and depth charges, and will also serve in search-and-rescue missions. This marks the first use of the C-27J in an armed maritime patrol configuration.
Borgu confirms the porosity of the Niger-Nigeria border — 46 dead in three villages targeted by motorcycle fighters
Armed men on motorcycles attacked the villages of Tungan Makeri, Konkoso, and Alissa in Borgu, Nigeria, on February 15, resulting in 46 deaths and numerous kidnappings. The attacks, attributed to groups like Lakurawa and JNIM, highlight the growing insecurity in the region, prompting local leaders to call for military intervention. This incident reflects a concerning trend of jihadist expansion in the area.
Marie DuboisMon Feb 16 2026Loading...WDS 2026 – Kalashnikov adds RUS-PE to its loitering munitions catalogue
Kalashnikov showcased the RUS-PE loitering munition at the World Defense Show in Riyadh. This system includes two types of munitions, UB-1 and UB-2, designed for infantry use with a flight endurance of 30 minutes and a cruise speed of 140 km/h. The RUS-PE features a gimballed sensor suite for target detection and can operate in various modes. Kalashnikov is currently looking for a launch customer for this new weapon system.
Iranian Revolutionary Guard Navy Conducts Exercises in the Strait of Hormuz
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy conducted a military exercise named 'Smart Control of the Strait of Hormuz' in the Strait of Hormuz on the 16th. The exercise aimed to assess combat readiness and review security plans against potential threats, emphasizing a rapid and decisive response to maritime security challenges.
KSA’s Ministry of Defence to introduce advanced maritime patrol and multi-mission capabilities with contract for four C-27J MPA aircraft
Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Defence contracted four C-27J Maritime Patrol Aircraft from Leonardo to enhance its maritime patrol and multi-mission capabilities. Deliveries to the Royal Saudi Naval Forces are expected to begin in 2029, marking a significant upgrade in their operational capabilities against modern threats. This acquisition includes advanced weapon system integration for the C-27J MPA.
Gulf States Refuse to Use Their Airspace to Strike Iran but Host American Bases That Will Receive the Response: The Inexplicable Military Contradiction
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...The UK will deploy an aircraft carrier strike group to the North Atlantic.
UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the deployment of a carrier strike group led by HMS Prince of Wales to the North Atlantic and Arctic regions in 2023. This action aims to deter Russia and protect critical underwater infrastructure, as the UK faces an increased threat from Russian naval activity. The deployment includes Royal Navy warships, F-35 aircraft, and helicopters, demonstrating the UK's commitment to European and Atlantic security.
