Analysis & Reports

Italy and Greece signed an agreement in Rome for the transfer of two FREMM frigates, Carlo Bergamini and Virginio Fasan, from the Italian Navy to the Hellenic Navy. The deal, facilitated by Fincantieri, aims to enhance military cooperation and support the operational readiness of the vessels. Key military officials from both nations were present during the signing.

ASELSAN signed an export contract with AMZ Kutno in Kielce, Poland, for 24 sets of ARSUS Reconnaissance and Surveillance Systems for the Polish Armed Forces. Deliveries are planned between 2028 and 2029, further enhancing ASELSAN's long-term presence in Poland's defense sector. This agreement follows a previous electronic warfare contract and reflects ASELSAN's expanding cooperation with Polish industry.

SIATT signed a Memorandum of Understanding with Safran Electronics & Defense in São José dos Campos, Brazil, on 8 September 2026, to collaborate on missile systems and related technologies. The agreement includes developing solid rocket motor capabilities at SIATT's facilities and exploring cooperation in critical technologies such as navigation systems and optronic sights.

MBDA signed a framework agreement to supply three SIMBAD RC anti-missile systems to the Spanish Navy, enhancing its self-defense capabilities against missile and aerial threats. This agreement marks a significant advancement for the Navy and a milestone for MBDA's operations in Spain. The systems will be integrated into active naval units to improve vessel protection.

Patria and the Finnish Defence Forces have finalized a deal for the procurement of over 100 Patria TREMOS mortar systems, with deliveries starting this year and continuing through 2028. This new mortar system enhances mobility and operational effectiveness, supporting Finland's national security. The agreement is expected to generate approximately 130 person-years of employment.

FlyFocus unveiled the TASACK precision loitering munition at MSPO 2026 in Kielce, Poland, on September 8, 2026. The TASACK features a flight range of up to 110 kilometers, a payload capacity of 5 kg, and speeds of up to 300 km/h. Designed for precision engagement, it includes a stabilized gimbal for visual targeting and is expected to be production-ready by Q1 2027.

ImageSat International introduced the EROS NOVA satellite on September 08, 2026, in Israel. This next-generation satellite features a native resolution of 25 cm and integrates advanced imaging capabilities, including visible and SWIR imaging, video collection, and onboard AI. EROS NOVA aims to enhance intelligence collection and analysis for defense and strategic applications.

Saudi Arabia requested over 10,000 JDAM-ER bombs from the U.S. on September 4, 2026, as part of a deal valued at over $5 billion. This request follows a series of Houthi attacks in southern Saudi Arabia, indicating an urgent need to rearm its strike aircraft. The JDAM-ER bombs will enhance the precision and range of Saudi airstrikes, although the deal also highlights the ongoing dependency on U.S. military support for operational capabilities.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Sep 09 2026Loading...

Leonardo's 30 mm X-Gun was selected for the Polish SAN C-UAS programme during the MSPO 2026 exhibition in Kielce, Poland. A contract was signed with Kongsberg for the supply of 18 CUAS batteries, which will include various weapon systems. The SAN programme aims to provide the Polish Army with a comprehensive counter-UAS system, supported by multiple European defense companies.

The U.S. Air Force is developing a mobile, medium-caliber air defense artillery system to counter drone and cruise missile threats following recent Iranian attacks on U.S. bases in the Middle East. This new system aims to provide a cost-effective solution to enhance air defense capabilities, addressing the high costs and consumption rates of existing missile systems.

The 73rd Group Army conducted coastal swimming training to enhance soldiers' operational skills, while the 77th Group Army executed live-fire artillery exercises in the Gobi Desert. The training focused on improving coordination and effectiveness in challenging environments, with real-time adjustments made during operations. Both exercises aimed to strengthen combat readiness and operational capabilities.

Iran's Revolutionary Guards captured a U.S. uncrewed submarine drone at the entrance to the Strait of Hormuz on Tuesday. The drone, identified as a Dive-LD, is designed for various military operations. The U.S. military confirmed that an underwater drone had malfunctioned over a day ago, stating it was an older model that did not collect sensitive data.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched missile strikes against two U.S. Navy destroyers, DDG-119 and DDG-53, on September 9 in Tehran, causing significant damage. This action was a response to U.S. attacks on Iranian oil tankers. The U.S. Central Command reported that five Iranian oil tankers were destroyed following the initial attacks, with no injuries to U.S. personnel.

Japan is planning to operate a surveillance network of over 100 satellites by 2031 to enhance maritime monitoring and improve the targeting capabilities of its Type 25 anti-ship missiles. The initiative includes a budget allocation of 283.2 billion yen for satellite development in fiscal year 2025. This network aims to strengthen Japan's self-defense capabilities and reduce reliance on U.S. military satellite information.

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NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called for increased military support for Ukraine during an online meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on the 8th. He emphasized that NATO countries had committed to providing 70 billion euros worth of military equipment to Ukraine by the end of the year. Germany announced it would supply Patriot air defense missiles and increase air-to-air missile supplies, while the UK pledged 100 million pounds for Ukraine's air defense assistance program.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched missile strikes against two U.S. Navy destroyers in the Persian Gulf, causing significant damage. This action was described as retaliation for U.S. aggressive actions against Iranian tankers. As of now, there has been no public response from the U.S. regarding the incident.

On September 8, 2023, U.S. Central Command destroyed five Iranian oil tankers in the Oman Gulf and near Hark Island in response to missile attacks from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard. The U.S. Navy, which was targeted but unharmed, had previously warned the crew of the tankers to abandon ship before the strikes. This operation follows a series of missile attacks aimed at U.S. naval vessels by Iran.

China operates around 21 Type 039 Yuan-class submarines, which are designed for undersea warfare and can remain submerged for extended periods. These submarines are equipped with advanced weaponry, including Yu-6 torpedoes and YJ-18 missiles, and are strategically positioned in chokepoints in the East and South China Seas. The Yuan-class submarines represent a significant enhancement in China's naval capabilities, allowing for effective patrolling and ambush tactics against enemy vessels.

Iran demonstrated its capability to target U.S. aircraft carriers with the Qassem Basir missile, forcing evasive actions from the USS George H.W. Bush in 2026. The U.S. Navy's ability to maintain operational effectiveness is challenged by the potential for damage to carriers, which could render them combat-ineffective without sinking. The strategic implications of this capability highlight vulnerabilities in U.S. naval power projection, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.

Iran captured a U.S. unmanned underwater vehicle in the Strait of Hormuz on September 8, 2023. The U.S. Central Command confirmed that the vehicle had malfunctioned and was not carrying any sensitive data. The vehicle was conducting reconnaissance to support U.S. operations in the area.