Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force will establish a new career field for point defense airmen and develop a point defense weapons system to enhance security at air bases worldwide within two years. This initiative follows recent Iranian attacks on U.S. bases, highlighting the need for improved defenses against evolving threats. Senior Master Sgt. Andrew Lewis and Senior Master Sgt. Brandon Spears have been appointed as the first field managers for this new career track.

The Russian Armed Forces displayed new air-launched weapons, including the Sukhoi Su-57E and various missiles, at EIAS 2026. The S-71K cruise missile, capable of delivering a 250 kg payload, and the S-71M kamikaze drone with a 500 km range were highlighted. The Export Banderol (Dan-T) was also presented as a new weapon for combat use. These developments reflect ongoing military advancements amid the conflict in Ukraine.

Debris from a Chinese-made DF-15A ballistic missile was found in the Raghwan district of Marib Governorate, Yemen, indicating potential missile usage by Saudi Arabia for the first time. This discovery coincides with escalating fighting in the region between Houthi forces and Yemen's internationally recognized government. Analysts suggest the missile may have been fired by Saudi Arabia, although this has not been officially confirmed.

An Eitan wheeled armored personnel carrier equipped with the Hetz Dorban active protection system was photographed during a training exercise in Israel in August 2026. This system, also known as Iron Fist, is designed to counter threats such as anti-tank rounds and drones. The Eitan is operated by the IDF's 933rd Nahal Infantry Brigade, which has been using it since May 2023.

Houthi forces attacked the King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait, Saudi Arabia, on September 14, in retaliation for over 300 airstrikes conducted by Saudi forces in the preceding five days. The Houthi spokesperson stated that dozens of ballistic missiles and drones were used, and all strikes were reported to have accurately hit their targets, inflicting significant damage on the base.

Houthi forces launched an attack on a Saudi airbase on September 14, firing dozens of ballistic missiles and drones. This action represents a significant military operation by the Houthis against Saudi Arabia.

Israeli forces destroyed a Hezbollah underground base at Ali Tahir Ridge in southern Lebanon on September 11, 2023. The operation was confirmed by Israeli officials, who stated it eliminated Hezbollah's capability to conduct attacks against Israel. The facility housed Iranian-made missiles and other weaponry, and explosions were reported in the vicinity, felt as far as Beirut.

In April 2026, the U.S. Air Force decided to maintain three squadrons of A-10 Warthogs until 2030, reversing earlier plans for an early phase-out. The A-10 was effectively deployed for aerial counter-drone and anti-missile defense missions over Gulf Arab states, utilizing its 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger cannon against Iranian threats. This decision reflects the aircraft's proven effectiveness in various military operations, particularly in recent conflicts.

Houthi forces attacked a Saudi military base using drones and missiles and captured Perlin Island on November 11, escalating the conflict in Yemen. The U.S. is facing a dilemma as Saudi Arabia seeks military support while the Houthis threaten international shipping in the Mandeb Strait. U.S. President Trump confirmed discussions with Saudi officials regarding the situation.

A long-endurance surveillance drone, the MQ-22 Swift (Vanilla), was spotted taking off from Prince Hassan Air Base in Jordan on September 13, 2026. This marks the first known sighting of the aircraft operating from Jordan, which is utilized by U.S. forces and allies. The drone is built for extended surveillance missions and has a payload capacity of up to 150 pounds.

Iran captured a U.S. military unmanned underwater vehicle, the Dive-LD, on September 9, 2023. This incident provides Iran with an opportunity for reverse engineering, which could enhance its military capabilities. The U.S. military and the manufacturer, Anduril, are attempting to minimize the impact of this event, which is seen as a propaganda victory for Tehran.

Houthi forces captured Mayyun Island from September 11 to 13, 2026, exerting pressure on Saudi Arabia's security. They also attacked oil pipelines between Riyadh and Medina using drones launched from Iraq. Concurrent artillery strikes in Jizan province resulted in civilian injuries and damage. This series of events highlights the escalating military threat to Saudi Arabia from Houthi forces and their capabilities.

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Houthi forces launched a significant military operation against Saudi military facilities in Shaybah, utilizing a large number of ballistic missiles and drones. The attack targeted a weapons depot and a command control center, resulting in precise strikes. Houthi spokesperson Yahya warned of escalated actions if Saudi military operations against Yemen persist.

Saudi Arabia shut down the East-West pipeline (Petroline) on September 12 following a drone attack attributed to Iraq. The incident underscores vulnerabilities in Saudi energy infrastructure and raises concerns about regional security. Multiple sources reported the attack, although Iraqi factions disputed responsibility, complicating the situation further.

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Nuclear-armed states expanded their arsenals in 2025, with the global count of nuclear warheads reaching approximately 12,187. The United States and Russia continue to lead in warhead numbers, while China and India also increased their stockpiles. The expiration of the New START treaty in February 2026 has reduced transparency regarding nuclear deployments. Tensions in South Asia escalated with significant conflict between India and Pakistan.

The U.S. Army has modified a contract with Rolls-Royce Solutions America, adding $39.1 million for the production of engines for Israel's Eitan armored vehicle. This brings the total contract value to approximately $158.9 million, with production expected to be completed by September 11, 2027. The funding originates from Foreign Military Sales funds allocated to Israel since 2010, highlighting a long-term military procurement process.

Two ships were struck by unknown projectiles near Khasab, Oman, on September 11, 2026, resulting in one ship catching fire. Concurrently, Iranian ballistic missile strikes caused significant damage to the Muwaffaq Salti / Al Azraq base in Jordan, consuming approximately 30 Patriot missiles. This dual incident highlights the ongoing military pressure from Iran on maritime and air defense systems in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

U.S. air-and-missile-defense systems are adapting to new threats posed by Iran's drone and missile capabilities in the Middle East. The systems have performed well in recent conflicts but face challenges due to high costs and the need for rapid adaptation. Experts emphasize the importance of increasing industrial capacity to meet these evolving threats and ensure effective defense against low-cost drone swarms and high-speed missiles.

Type 45 destroyers of the Royal Navy lose all electrical power when operating in waters warmer than 28 degrees Celsius, particularly in the Persian Gulf. This failure has led to operational challenges, prompting the Royal Navy to initiate the Power Improvement Project to enhance reliability. The destroyers, each costing over £1 billion, are critical for national defense and have faced scrutiny due to their design flaws and operational limitations.

Northrop Grumman developed the F-5 and F-20 aircraft, with the F-5E Tiger II serving over 30 air forces since its introduction in 1975. The F-20 Tigershark, developed in the 1980s, was intended for export but failed to sell any units despite significant investment. The F-5 series remains operational in various countries, showcasing its long-term success in military aviation.