Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a contract for the F-47 Next Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) stealth fighter on March 21, 2025. The aircraft will utilize the Pratt & Whitney XA103 engine, which enhances fuel efficiency and thrust. This development aims to ensure air superiority against emerging threats, particularly from China.

President Trump delivered a lengthy State of the Union address in Washington, D.C., where he discussed military actions, including claims about Iran's nuclear program and the deployment of the National Guard. He made several controversial statements regarding defense spending and military operations, but provided little clarity on his policies regarding potential military action with Iran.

U.S. Army soldiers at Fort Stewart are training to operate drones under the Transformation in Contact initiative, reshaping armored warfare tactics. This program emphasizes the integration of drone technology into military operations, influenced by lessons from the conflict in Ukraine. Soldiers practice on a simulator before transitioning to real drone flights, marking a shift from traditional training methods.

U.S. Army soldiers at Fort Stewart are training to operate drones as part of the Transformation in Contact initiative, which emphasizes hands-on experimentation with new drone capabilities. This approach reflects lessons learned from the conflict in Ukraine, as the Army seeks to adapt its tactics and doctrine to incorporate advanced drone technology into armored operations.

China filed an application for 203,000 satellites, while SpaceX proposed a million-satellite network, leading to significant strain on the space supply chain. The US Defense Department is increasing its demand for satellites, which may impact its initiatives. Industry experts warn that companies might prioritize commercial contracts over military ones due to economic factors.

The U.S. Air Force is modernizing the F-22 Raptor to the 'Super' Raptor standard by 2026, investing $9 billion in upgrades including the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile and advanced IRST systems. This modernization aims to ensure air superiority against adversaries like China and Russia. The Rapid Raptor program enhances deployment capabilities, allowing the F-22 to be operational within 24 to 48 hours.

BAE Systems has secured a contract exceeding $500 million to provide additional M109A7 Paladin Self-Propelled Howitzers to the US Army.

Senate Democrats expressed concerns over the legality and competitive implications of the Pentagon's $400 million equity deal with MP Materials in Washington. The deal, aimed at securing the rare earth magnet supply chain, has raised questions about its compliance with the Antideficiency Act and the potential for unfair advantages to the company. Pentagon officials stated they are seeking legal opinions on the arrangement.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) has been deployed for over 230 days, transitioning from operations in Venezuela to the Middle East. This extended deployment raises concerns about the mental health of the crew, with research indicating a link between long deployments and issues such as PTSD and anxiety. The ship may remain at sea for up to 300 days, potentially supporting military operations against Iran.

BAE Systems recently delivered its 100,000th APKWS laser-guidance kit, enhancing precision strike capabilities for U.S. armed forces and allies. The kit transforms unguided 2.75-inch rockets into precision-guided munitions and is deployable from multiple platforms. BAE Systems has been producing these kits for over 12 years, continuously upgrading technology to meet evolving mission needs.

The U.S. military has significantly increased its presence in the Middle East, with over 250 airlift flights and more than 150 aircraft deployed since late February. This buildup includes two carrier strike groups and numerous air defense assets, indicating preparations for potential military action against Iran. Gulf states, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, express alarm over the implications of this military concentration, fearing they may become targets in any conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

On February 18, 2026, the U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to defend Japan using all defense capabilities, including nuclear forces, during the Extended Deterrence Dialogue in Washington D.C. Both nations expressed serious concerns about China's nuclear buildup and North Korea's missile programs. Japan's defense policy is transitioning towards proactive defense, reflecting a deepening military alliance with the U.S. This dialogue marks a significant strategic shift in addressing regional security challenges.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

President Trump claimed during his State of the Union speech that he had obliterated Iran's nuclear program and ended eight wars, including conflicts in Thailand and Cambodia. He asserted that crime in Washington, D.C. is at its lowest level, despite conflicting police data. The U.S. continues military operations in the Middle East, including a buildup involving the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford. Trump's statements regarding military funding were also found to be misleading.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is appealing a judge's order from February 12, 2023, that blocks punishment for Sen. Mark Kelly for participating in a video urging troops to resist unlawful orders. The judge ruled that the Pentagon violated Kelly's First Amendment rights, and a grand jury previously declined to indict the lawmakers involved in the video. The situation highlights ongoing tensions regarding military directives and free speech rights among veterans.

President Trump presented the Medal of Honor to retired Navy Capt. Royce Williams during the State of the Union address. At 100 years old, Williams received recognition for his heroic actions in a 1952 dogfight against Soviet MiG-15 jets, where he downed four enemy aircraft. The mission remained classified for decades, and Rep. Darrell Issa played a key role in advocating for Williams' recognition through legislative efforts.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on February 24 that Canada will continue its military aid to Ukraine, including approximately 2 billion CAD in assistance and extending training missions for Ukrainian personnel. The aid package also includes 20 million CAD for repairing infrastructure damaged during the conflict and new sanctions against financial supporters of Russia.

On February 18, 2026, the U.S. and Japan reaffirmed their military alliance during the Expanded Deterrence Dialogue in Washington D.C., committing to strengthen defense capabilities against regional threats. In response, China imposed export restrictions on 20 Japanese companies involved in military enhancement, aiming to curb Japan's rearmament efforts. This development highlights escalating military tensions in East Asia, with both nations adjusting their defense strategies.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

The U.S. House of Representatives rejected a bill designed to require aircraft locator systems to prevent midair collisions, following a tragic incident in January 2025 that killed 67 people. Families of the victims expressed disappointment, while aviation groups supported a competing measure. The Senate bill, which passed, mandates locator systems for all aircraft, contrasting with the House's approach that lacks such requirements.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a contract to Honeywell for the development of a new engine for its autonomous drone wingmen on February 23. The SkyShot 1600 engine will be adapted for use in the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which includes unmanned systems designed to operate alongside human pilots. This initiative reflects ongoing advancements in military drone technology.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a contract to Honeywell for the development of a small engine for its autonomous drone wingmen on February 23. The SkyShot 1600 engine will be adapted for use in the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which includes unmanned systems designed to operate alongside human pilots in various mission sets. The U.S. Navy is also pursuing similar drone technology.