Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Thailand Owns the World’s Smallest Aircraft Carrier. It Has No Aircraft, Rarely Sails, and Includes a Royal Apartment
HTMS Chakri Naruebet, the world's smallest aircraft carrier, has been utilized by the Royal Thai Navy as a floating command center and hospital during disaster relief operations, including recent flooding in southern Thailand. Commissioned in 1997, it has not operated fixed-wing aircraft since 2006 and is primarily docked at Sattahip. Despite its limited military capabilities, it has provided significant humanitarian assistance during crises.
A naval failure in the Strait of Hormuz
The U.S. Navy has failed to secure the Strait of Hormuz against Iranian opposition, despite moving 4,500 Marines into the region. This operational shortfall stems from historical gaps in mine warfare capabilities and logistical challenges. The ongoing situation poses significant risks to global navigation and economic stability, as both the U.S. and Iran have resumed strikes and blockades affecting maritime traffic.
The Harpoon Missile at (Almost) 50: How a Cold War Whale-Hunter Became the Free World’s Ship-Killer, and Why It Refuses to Retire
Taiwan established a new Littoral Combat Command in July 2026, integrating 400 Harpoon Block II missiles and 100 truck-mounted launchers into its coastal defense. This move follows the U.S. Navy's conclusion of the classic Harpoon production, marking a significant shift in military strategy. The Harpoon missile, with a history of widespread deployment, is set to play a crucial role in Taiwan's defense against potential maritime threats.
Britain Just Named Its Drone Wingman: Storm Fighter Will Fly Into Combat With the Typhoon, F-35, and Tempest
The UK has officially launched its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, naming it 'Storm Fighter', which will operate alongside the Typhoon and F-35. This initiative is part of a broader plan to establish Europe's first sixth-generation air force, with a $6.6 billion investment in drones over the next four years. The Royal Air Force aims to achieve operational capability for the CCA by the end of the decade, enhancing its combat capabilities with new unmanned systems.
Iran Strikes US Military Targets in Kuwait and Syria
Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched large-scale strikes against U.S. military targets in Kuwait and Syria on July 17, responding to a prior U.S. attack. The strikes targeted radar systems, weapon depots, and HIMARS launch sites, resulting in injuries to Kuwaiti soldiers and damage to a power and desalination facility. Kuwait condemned the attacks, asserting its right to defend national security.
Flying the F-15C: What It Was Actually Like Inside the US Air Force Fighter That Never Lost
The U.S. Air Force is retiring the F-15C Eagles, with the last units departing from Kadena Air Base in Japan in late 2024. The F-15C, known for its unmatched air-to-air combat record, will be replaced by the multirole F-15EX. This transition marks the end of an era for a fighter designed exclusively for air superiority.
Japan, Vietnam exploring joint work on ‘fast landing craft’
Japan and Vietnam are in discussions to potentially launch a joint project to build new fast landing vessels. The defense chiefs from both nations met recently in Japan to agree on this cooperation, which aims to enhance defense industrial collaboration. The envisioned vessels are designed for rapid transport of personnel and supplies from larger ships to shore, reflecting the growing strategic partnership between the two countries amid regional maritime pressures.
Ukraine's 16 Gripen E Jets Won't Arrive Soon Enough
The UK announced a €300 million investment to support Ukraine's acquisition of 16 Gripen E fighter jets by 2029, aimed at modernizing its air force. This initiative includes training and logistical support but does not address Ukraine's immediate air defense needs against ongoing Russian attacks. The UK is also providing drones and air defense missiles this year to bolster Ukraine's capabilities in the short term.
Alexandra ReevesFri Jul 17 2026Loading...
It Takes the US Navy 12 Years to Build a Nuclear Attack Submarine
The U.S. Navy commissioned the USS Massachusetts and USS Idaho in March and April 2026, respectively, each taking about 12 years from contract to commissioning. The delays are attributed to workforce challenges, material supply issues, and the complexity of the new Block V design. The Navy's current production rate is insufficient to meet its needs, resulting in a growing backlog of submarines.
L3Harris and Shield AI complete first autonomous DiSCO EW drone flight
L3Harris Technologies and Shield AI conducted the first live flight trial of their Distributed Spectrum Collaboration and Operations (DiSCO) system in the United States. This event marks a significant milestone in the development of electronic warfare capabilities.
The US Military Just Emptied a Third of Its Deepest Missile Magazine Into Iran — and the Pentagon’s Own Wargames Say the Next War Empties It in Days
The U.S. Military has expended over 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles in operations against Iran as of July 17, 2026, with estimates indicating 2,000 to 3,000 missiles remain. Following the collapse of a ceasefire on July 8, strikes resumed, raising concerns about the sustainability of U.S. missile stockpiles for future conflicts, particularly against China or Russia. The current production rate of Tomahawk missiles is insufficient to replenish the inventory depleted in the ongoing conflict.
What we’re watching for at the 2026 Farnborough Airshow
The Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom will highlight advancements in sixth-generation fighter jets and increased interest in drone production. A team will be present to provide daily updates, including reports, videos, and photos from the exhibition.
Farnborough 2026 with 1,600 Exhibitors Shows Europe's Defense Problem Beyond New Jets
Farnborough 2026 showcased 1,600 exhibitors, with half from the defense sector, reflecting a shift towards military capabilities amid rising geopolitical tensions. The European defense industry faces challenges in meeting demand for munitions and advanced systems, as highlighted by the contrasting speeds of startups like Helsing and established firms like MBDA. The report underscores the importance of effective procurement and military readiness in the context of increased defense budgets.
Dr. Klaus WeberFri Jul 17 2026Loading...
Germany's 6.3 Billion MEKO A-200 Purchase in 2026 Shows the Costs of the F126 Escape
Germany is purchasing 4 MEKO A-200 DEU frigates for 6.3 billion euros to replace the canceled F126 program, which faced delays and cost overruns. Saab will provide key sensor and combat management systems for these ships. The decision aims to enhance NATO capabilities in the Atlantic, North Sea, and Baltic Sea by ensuring timely availability of naval assets.
Dr. Klaus WeberFri Jul 17 2026Loading...
First Steel Was Cut in 2011. She Joins the US Navy 2027. Why 1 American Aircraft Carrier Takes 16 Years
The USS John F. Kennedy (CVN 79) is set for delivery to the U.S. Navy in March 2027, marking a significant delay since its first steel was cut in February 2011. The construction challenges stem from limited shipyard capacity in Newport News, Virginia, and a shortage of skilled labor. As a result, the U.S. Navy operates only ten aircraft carriers, below the required eleven, impacting operational readiness.
JNIM claims Daka in Burkina Faso on July 15 — Tougan becomes the fragile lock
JNIM claims to have taken control of a Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP) post in Daka, Burkina Faso, on July 15. This action highlights the group's strategy to undermine state authority in the region. The capture of Daka is significant as it affects local security dynamics and the state's ability to maintain control. The situation in Tougan remains precarious, with potential implications for surrounding villages and state presence.
Marie DuboisFri Jul 17 2026Loading...Pakistani military claims to have killed 24 terrorists
Pakistani security forces killed 24 terrorists in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa on July 17, 2023, during operations aimed at countering increased attacks by the Pakistani Taliban. The military seized a significant amount of weapons and ammunition, and the operation is still ongoing.
Kuwait Claims Military Personnel Injured in Iran Attack
Several personnel from the Kuwait Army were injured in a drone attack by Iran on the morning of the 17th. Kuwait's air defense systems successfully intercepted hostile missiles and drones. The attack caused a fire at a desalination and power facility in Kuwait. Iran has not yet responded to the incident.
Drones "Lightning" and "Lancet" elevate Russian war logistics to refueling levels of 2026
The Russian army is intensifying drone strikes on fuel stations, buses, and trucks in Ukraine as part of a logistics campaign. This operation, led by the elite Rubicon drone unit, aims to disrupt Ukrainian supply lines by targeting civilian logistics. The drones involved include Lightning and Lancet models, which are capable of real-time targeting. This shift in tactics is a response to Ukrainian strikes on Russian fuel infrastructure, increasing the operational costs for Ukrainian forces.
Dmitri VolkovFri Jul 17 2026Loading...Ukrainian Side Claims Heavy Damage to Russian Tu-95 Strategic Bombers
The Ukrainian Security Service conducted a drone strike on a Tu-95 strategic bomber at Engels military airport in Saratov Oblast, Russia, on July 17. The bomber was severely damaged, with its tail completely detached. This operation aimed to weaken Russian military and economic capabilities, indicating that even remote military installations are no longer safe for Russian forces.
