Analysis & Reports

ImageSat International announced that its RUNNER satellite can now detect and track moving objects continuously, including at night, as of May 26. This capability utilizes onboard artificial intelligence to analyze movement patterns in real time, significantly enhancing surveillance for military logistics and troop movements. The satellite's advanced optical system allows it to operate effectively in low-light conditions, providing actionable intelligence without the delays associated with traditional satellite imagery processing.

In Spring 1990, two B-52 Stratofortresses from the 307th Bomb Wing practiced low-level flights in the Persian Gulf, conducting a fly-by of the USS Ranger. The bombers flew below the flight deck, creating significant visual and operational impact. This maneuver demonstrated the capabilities of the B-52 in low-level operations, which were critical during the Cold War.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) conducted the first flight of the MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft equipped with Airborne Early Warning (AEW) pods on May 19, 2026, in San Diego, California. This flight marks a significant step in developing the AEW capability through a partnership with Saab, aimed at enhancing air surveillance and operational flexibility. The new LoyalEye sensor will provide critical information for decision-making and improve situational awareness.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) conducted the first flight of the MQ-9B Remotely Piloted Aircraft equipped with Airborne Early Warning (AEW) pods on May 19, 2026, in San Diego, California. This flight marks a significant step in developing the AEW capability, which will enhance air surveillance and situational awareness. The AEW sensor, LoyalEye, is expected to provide critical information for operators.

The U.S. Air Force admitted to Congress that it lacks sufficient defenses against drone incursions at its bases, particularly at Barksdale Air Force Base in Louisiana. Lt. Gen. David Tabor stated that current resources are inadequate for future threats and that the Air Force is still developing effective counter-drone capabilities. The issue raises concerns about the security of sensitive military infrastructure and the potential for adversary reconnaissance.

U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) contracted Texas startup SkyFi to test a software platform designed to deliver unclassified commercial satellite imagery directly to warfighters. The platform integrates with the Android Tactical Assault Kit (ATAK) to provide near-real-time imagery. Insights from this Phase I assessment will inform potential follow-on activities, including expanded integration and additional imagery delivery mechanisms.

The U.S. Department of Defense released over 150 new files on unidentified aerial phenomena (UAPs), including reports from NASA astronauts about sightings in space and on the moon. The documents, spanning from 1942 to 2025, include audio clips and photographs, and are accessible without clearance. The release aims to provide transparency regarding UAP investigations, particularly in light of concerns about advanced technologies from foreign adversaries.

Insitu was selected to provide ISR support services to the United States Navy and Marine Corps on May 4, 2026. The company will utilize ScanEagle and Integrator UAS, which offer extended operational capabilities. Insitu has a long history of providing these services, enhancing their platforms with updated features for maritime operations.

The National Reconnaissance Office (NRO) awarded three contracts for commercial satellite data to Earth Daily, ICEYE, and Pixxel during the GEOINT Symposium in Denver. These contracts are part of the NRO's new Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO) process, which aims to enhance intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capabilities. NRO is also collaborating with the US Space Force to ensure the data meets their Tactical Surveillance, Reconnaissance, and Tracking program requirements.

Sweden launched its first military reconnaissance and surveillance satellite into orbit from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California at 9:00 a.m. Swedish time. This satellite enhances Sweden's ability to monitor operational areas, including the strategically significant Arctic region. The launch marks a significant acceleration in Sweden's military capabilities, achieved well ahead of the previously set 2030 target, and underscores Sweden's commitment to NATO's collective defense efforts.

The Marine Corps is evolving its operations by integrating unmanned systems, including drones for roles such as aerial reconnaissance and as wingmen for fighter jets, with plans to field these capabilities by 2029. The XQ-58 Valkyrie has been selected for the Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, aiming to enhance operational effectiveness and reduce contractor reliance for ISR. The Corps is also pursuing a common controller software solution for its unmanned platforms.

The Space Rapid Capabilities Office awarded contracts to three companies in Washington to develop radar warning receivers for future satellites. Each contract is valued at $3 million and aims to enhance the Space Force's capabilities in detecting ground-based radar emissions. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve space domain awareness and support military satellite operations.

Air Force radar units conducted realistic combat training in North and Central China to enhance their rapid maneuvering and air situation handling capabilities. The exercises involved electronic warfare tactics and the deployment of radar systems to respond to simulated threats. This training marks the 76th anniversary of the Air Force radar units, emphasizing their role in national air defense.

The U.S. Navy-Marine Corps Team is utilizing the MQ-9B SeaGuardian for intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting operations. This unmanned aircraft system provides unmatched endurance and advanced capabilities, including anti-submarine warfare and integration with long-range weapons. Its all-weather performance and modular payload architecture enhance operational flexibility and effectiveness in modern conflict.

The U.S. Navy selected Shield AI on April 20, 2026, to provide contractor-owned, contractor-operated intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance services. Shield AI will compete for up to $800 million in task orders using its V-BAT uncrewed aircraft system, which is designed for persistent ISR operations. The V-BAT has demonstrated capabilities in contested environments, including operations in Ukraine and drug interdiction missions.

U.S. Army soldiers from the Multi-Functional Reconnaissance Company conducted Operation Arctic Tech at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, from April 7 to April 10. The exercise integrated unmanned aircraft systems and electronic warfare capabilities in cold-weather conditions, focusing on reconnaissance and targeting operations. Soldiers utilized various tools, including drones and electronic warfare systems, to identify and confirm potential targets, demonstrating the effectiveness of integrated teams in challenging environments.

The U.S. Space Force's X-37B completed its eighth mission on June 16, 2023, after spending over 900 days in orbit conducting classified experiments. The spacecraft, which is similar to China's Shenlong, is designed for various military applications, including advanced technology testing and potentially space debris management. Its missions have increased in duration, showcasing its operational flexibility and reusability.

The U.S. Army's HADES spy plane is set to begin flight tests this summer in Nashville, with initial deliveries planned for later this year. This next-generation intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance platform, developed from the Bombarder 6500 business jet, will replace the Army's legacy turboprop fleet. The program will deliver three prototypes, each with evolving capabilities, as part of an iterative development process.

The SR-71 Blackbird achieved its fastest flight at Mach 3.56 during a test near Area 51 in Nevada. This unprecedented speed was reached for a brief 15 seconds during a routine flight test. The aircraft, known for its high-speed reconnaissance capabilities, was ultimately retired due to advancements in satellite technology and the end of the Cold War.

MDA Space unveiled the MDA Midnight platform in Colorado, designed for satellite refueling and monitoring. The platform features a robotic arm that can inspect and defend against threats. Concerns about Iran's military capabilities and the costs of potential conflict have been highlighted, with estimates reaching $30 billion per month. Additionally, Vantor and Windward are enhancing maritime tracking to counter GPS jamming and spoofing.