Analysis & Reports

L3Harris is reprogramming Falcon IV handheld radios in Washington to develop a counter-drone jamming capability known as Wraith Shield. This software upgrade allows soldiers to create an electronic warfare protective bubble against drones, with the potential to coordinate jamming from 40 radios at once. The US Army is considering acquiring this technology as part of its radio upgrades, reflecting significant interest in both domestic and international markets.

The U.S. Air Force's MQ-9 Reaper fleet has decreased to about 135 aircraft due to combat losses in Operation Epic Fury. Despite this reduction, the fleet continues to support 56 combat lines globally. The Air Force is actively seeking to replace the MQ-9 with a more affordable and flexible platform, with industry interest in developing a next-generation drone.

The U.S. Air Force plans to enhance the readiness of the KC-46 Pegasus air refueler, with an updated vision system expected in early 2028. The service aims to purchase 75 additional aircraft while addressing cost increases and operational deficiencies. A temporary logistics agreement will be implemented to improve aircraft availability, which has declined in recent years.

General Dynamics developed the F-16XL fighter prototype in the 1980s, featuring 27 hardpoints and capable of carrying twice the payload of a standard F-16. It was designed for the Enhanced Tactical Fighter program but lost to the F-15E due to its single-engine and one-seat configuration. Following the competition, the F-16XL was transferred to NASA for research on aerodynamic efficiency.

The F-16XL, developed by General Dynamics in the 1980s, featured 27 hardpoints and could carry twice the payload of a standard F-16. It was designed for deep-strike missions but lost the Enhanced Tactical Fighter competition to the F-15E, which was favored for its two-seat configuration and greater capabilities. After the competition, the F-16XL was transferred to NASA for research.

U.S. and allied forces conducted the largest-ever Balikatan exercises in the Philippines from April 20 to May 8, 2026, featuring live-fire drills and missile tests. On May 5, the U.S. Army operationally fired a Tomahawk missile from the Typhon system, while Japan conducted its first overseas offensive missile test since WWII. In response, the PLA deployed naval forces, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning, to the region, signaling increased military activity amid heightened tensions.

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The Pentagon announced framework agreements to procure over 10,000 low-cost cruise missiles starting in 2027, involving companies such as Anduril and Leidos. Anduril will deliver at least 1,000 Barracuda-500M rounds annually, while Leidos will provide 3,000 LCCMs. Additionally, a contract with Castelion for 500 Blackbeard hypersonic strike weapons was established.

Team Lionstrike, comprising GM Defence, BAE Systems, and NP Aerospace, has added the Heavy Duty Silverado truck to its offering for the British Army Light Mobility Vehicle. This addition aims to enhance the capabilities of the British Army's light mobility fleet. Specific details regarding troop numbers or deployment timelines were not provided.

The U.S. Air Force finalized requirements for a new drone to replace the MQ-9A Reaper, which has been in service since 2007. During a Senate hearing, officials discussed the need to replenish combat losses and the desire for a more cost-effective, modular platform. The Air Force is also exploring options to buy back MQ-9A drones, with current numbers reduced to approximately 135.

The Pentagon announced agreements with defense firms to acquire over 10,000 low-cost, containerized missiles starting in 2027. The agreements involve companies like Anduril, CoAspire, Leidos, and Zone 5, launching the Low-Cost Containerized Munitions program. Additionally, a contract for a minimum of 500 Blackbeard missiles from Castelion is planned, pending successful testing. The Pentagon is also seeking over $26 billion in its fiscal 2027 budget for critical munitions.

Chinese-made FN-16 man-portable air defense systems are currently in service with the Ukrainian 160th Mechanized Brigade, which is actively engaged in air defense operations. The brigade's press service confirmed their use in detecting and destroying enemy aerial threats. The origin of these systems is speculated to be linked to intercepted cargo from Iran, although this remains unverified. The operational use of FN-16s includes intercepting advanced threats like Kalibr cruise missiles, showcasing their effectiveness in the current conflict.

U.S. special operations leaders expressed frustration over proprietary agreements that hinder quick upgrades to military equipment, particularly unmanned systems, during a Senate subcommittee hearing. They highlighted the challenges of modifying drones and the impact of these restrictions on operational capabilities. The removal of right-to-repair provisions from the fiscal 2026 National Defense Authorization Act was also noted as a significant concern. Additionally, the leaders discussed the strain on U.S.-European relations due to ongoing military operations.

Iran launched thousands of missiles and drones at Israel and Gulf States since February 28, 2023, with Israeli defenses intercepting nearly 90% of the 650 medium-range ballistic missiles aimed at Israel. The attacks resulted in 24 civilian casualties and significant damage to US facilities. Iran's missile accuracy has improved, complicating defense efforts, while missile defenses are reportedly strained due to high usage of interceptors.

Leidos has secured a $2.7 billion contract from the US Army to move hypersonic weapons development from the prototyping phase to full production. This contract signifies a major step in the advancement of hypersonic weaponry for the US military.

Elbit Systems of America secured a $212 million contract to supply ENVG-B systems to the US Army. This order highlights the ongoing procurement of advanced military equipment by the US military.

The Baltic States are preparing to spend €12.2 billion ($14 billion) on new military equipment, including tanks and UAVs, funded by EU loans. Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia are focusing on local production and technology transfers to enhance their defense capabilities in response to regional threats. Upcoming contracts will prioritize equipment that supports their military readiness and integration into NATO's eastern defense strategy.

On May 13, 2026, Russian forces launched over 200 one-way attack drones across Ukraine, targeting residential areas and energy infrastructure, resulting in civilian casualties. The strikes occurred in multiple regions, including Dnipropetrovsk and Kyiv, following the collapse of a ceasefire. Ukrainian forces simultaneously executed deep-strike operations against Russian oil facilities, highlighting vulnerabilities in Russia's air defense.

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Experts from RAND Corporation and Teal Group discuss the potential integration of loyal wingman drones with fighter jets, highlighting advancements in drone technology. This marks a significant step towards the future of airpower, with implications for military operations.

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. unveiled STORM SHIELD™, a miniature electronic warfare system for unmanned aerial platforms, at the AOC Electronic Warfare conference in Helsinki on May 13, 2026. The system enhances self-protection and deception capabilities against various threats, featuring 360-degree coverage and advanced monitoring technologies. STORM SHIELD™ is designed to meet the size, weight, and cost constraints of UAVs, providing a proven solution for modern unmanned operations.

U.S. Special Operations Command adopted Reveal's Identifi mobile biometric system as a Program of Record on May 13, 2023. This system enables identity verification and threat assessment without relying on network connectivity, enhancing operational efficiency for special operators. Initial fielding has begun, with plans for broader deployment through fiscal 2026.