Analysis & Reports

Ukrainian forces liberated over 400 square kilometers in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast since late January 2026, disrupting Russian military operations. They advanced 10-12 kilometers in two drives, liberating settlements and revealing vulnerabilities in Russian defenses. Russian forces are facing significant casualties and logistical challenges, with reports of 1.315 million killed and wounded. The situation indicates a strategic setback for Russia as Ukrainian counterattacks continue to gain momentum.

Dmitri VolkovThu Mar 12 2026Loading...

Patria and United Aero Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding on 10 March 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia, to establish a forward stocking location and helicopter blade repair centre in Europe. This facility aims to enhance regional aviation maintenance capabilities, reducing turnaround times for repairs by 30% and supporting military and emergency services operations across Europe.

USS Nimitz (CVN-68) is transitioning to its new homeport in Norfolk, Virginia, for decommissioning after over 50 years of service. The carrier departed Naval Base Kitsap on March 7, 2026, and is participating in the Southern Seas 2026 deployment, visiting partner states in South America. The decommissioning process includes complex defueling of its nuclear reactors, with a contract modification awarded for planning and execution.

Norwegian F-35s intercepted Russian Ilyushin Il-20M reconnaissance aircraft off the coast of Norway on March 10 and 11, 2026, during the NATO Cold Response 2026 exercise. The Russian aircraft, which had its transponder switched off, was monitored as it flew along the Norwegian coast before returning to the Kola Peninsula. This incident is part of ongoing quick-reaction alert missions by the Norwegian Air Force against unidentified Russian aircraft.

USS Florida (SSGN 728) completed a 727-day deployment starting in August 2022, operating across the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. The submarine, armed with 154 Tomahawk missiles, showcased US military capabilities and deterrence amid rising global tensions. Despite its significant role, USS Florida is scheduled for retirement in 2026, raising concerns about a potential conventional strike gap in the US Navy's capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force faces criticism for focusing on air denial rather than air superiority, which is crucial for operational success. Recent conflicts in Ukraine and Iran demonstrate that without air superiority, military operations become constrained and costly. The report emphasizes the need for the U.S. to reaffirm its commitment to achieving air control to effectively project power and sustain operations.

Germany has overtaken China to become the fourth-largest arms exporter globally, with a market share of approximately 5.7%. This shift is attributed to increased European defense spending and military assistance to Ukraine, while Russia's exports have significantly declined. China ranks fifth, focusing more on domestic military production than on exports.

The USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is deploying to the Central Command area in February 2026 to support Operation Epic Fury and relieve the USS Gerald R. Ford. This deployment follows a successful Composite Training Unit Exercise, enhancing the U.S. Navy's operational readiness. The carrier, capable of launching over 90 aircraft, aims to deter threats from Houthi forces in the region.

Brasa Defence Systems demonstrated its UNHUMAN unmanned ground vehicle at the Griffin Tech Days 2026 exercises in Finland. The UGV, designed for logistics support, can transport supplies and evacuate casualties across challenging terrains. Weighing 110 kilograms, it can carry a payload of 200 kilograms and operates for about 10 hours on a single charge. The vehicle is intended for military applications but also has potential civilian uses.

Ukraine is actively developing and selling interceptor drones to counter drone threats, particularly from Iranian Shahed drones. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have successfully destroyed over 70% of incoming Shahed drones, showcasing the effectiveness of their new air defense systems. The U.S. and Israel's recent military actions have increased demand for these drones, prompting discussions for procurement with allied nations. Ukraine's defense innovation hub, Brave1, is at the forefront of this initiative, collaborating with various manufacturers to enhance drone capabilities.

Ukraine is actively developing and selling interceptor drones to counter drone threats, with over 20 companies involved in production. The U.S. and allied nations are in discussions to procure these drones, which have proven effective in combat against Shahed drones. The ongoing conflict has highlighted the need for innovative air defense solutions, prompting Ukraine to offer its expertise to allies.

The JAS 39E Gripen, operated by the Swedish Air Force, is evaluated for its advanced capabilities and challenges in a stealth-dominated environment. It achieves Mach 2 speeds with a low operating cost and is designed for rapid servicing from dispersed locations. However, its conventional radar profile limits its effectiveness against stealth fighters, raising concerns about its future survivability in potential conflicts with adversaries like Russia.

European NATO states are experiencing a strategic shift in defense policy as reliance on U.S. arms imports decreases, with a notable increase in European defense production. In March 2026, Ukraine requires 700 Patriot interceptors to counter Russian attacks, but production is limited. Germany has emerged as a leading arms exporter, while the EU is attempting to bolster military spending through a 90 billion Euro loan for Ukraine. However, Hungary's blockade on a 150 billion Euro defense credit program poses challenges.

Dr. Klaus WeberWed Mar 11 2026Loading...

Ukrainian Armed Forces have been operating Leopard 2 tanks since 2023 but face significant challenges due to logistical issues and threats from Russian Kornet anti-tank missiles and FPV drones. The tanks have suffered attrition and operational limitations, highlighting the importance of integrated support and logistics in modern warfare. The report emphasizes that advanced equipment alone does not guarantee success on the battlefield.

The USS Nimitz (CVN-68) is set to begin its retirement process in May 2026 due to aging nuclear reactors, with the U.S. Navy transitioning to the Gerald R. Ford-class carriers. The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) is expected to enter service in 2027, ensuring continued naval capability. Despite the retirement, the U.S. Navy will maintain a robust fleet of 10 nuclear-powered carriers, supporting operations in the Middle East and Indo-Pacific regions.

Rheinmetall forecasts sales of up to €14.5 billion for fiscal year 2026, driven by increased demand for military equipment. The company is divesting commercial assets to concentrate on defense, anticipating new domestic orders of €32 billion. Rheinmetall's backlog has reached €63.8 billion, reflecting a significant rise in military procurement from the German government.

The Royal Canadian Air Force is currently debating the procurement of Lockheed Martin F-35s versus Saab JAS 39 Gripens, with significant implications for NATO interoperability. The U.S. may restrict access to critical encryption systems, influencing Canada's decision. This situation is exacerbated by the current political climate and defense spending concerns, particularly in relation to the Trump administration's stance on NATO commitments.

Kenneth Walsh, a pilot with VMF-124, engaged in aerial combat against Japanese Zeros over Choiseul Island and the Solomon Islands in August 1943. He shot down multiple enemy aircraft and provided cover for Allied bombers. Walsh was awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions during these missions and became the first Corsair ace. He continued to serve in various capacities until his retirement in 1962.

The US Department of State approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Sweden for M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, valued at $930 million. This approval indicates a strengthening of military ties between the US and Sweden.

The U.S. Navy faces critical vulnerabilities to submarine attacks, as demonstrated by the 2015 exercise where the French submarine Saphir penetrated carrier defenses undetected. Recent assessments highlight the threat posed by Russian Yasen-class submarines armed with Zircon hypersonic missiles, which could disable carrier operations. Historical incidents involving Swedish and Chinese submarines further illustrate the risks to U.S. Aircraft Carrier Strike Groups.