Analysis & Reports

The USS Gerald R. Ford is deploying to the Arabian Sea to join the USS Abraham Lincoln, forming a dual-carrier strike group aimed at increasing pressure on Iran. This deployment, set for February 2025, will enhance U.S. military capabilities in the region, allowing for coordinated airstrikes and advanced surveillance operations. The carriers will utilize F-35Cs and Tomahawk missiles to conduct precise strikes against Iranian targets.

The B-21 Raider bomber, unveiled in Palmdale on December 2, 2022, is designed to enhance stealth capabilities while reducing maintenance demands for stealth aircraft. This new weapon system aims to operate effectively in high-end threat environments, making low observability more sustainable for the U.S. Air Force. The advancements in stealth technology are expected to allow for greater operational tempo and deployment of stealth aircraft.

The U.S. Navy proposed converting the USS Nimitz into a drone mothership to address a capability gap as it nears retirement. This transformation would enable the deployment of unmanned aerial and underwater vehicles, enhancing ISR and strike capabilities. The Nimitz's nuclear reactor would support the necessary electrical demands for advanced systems, potentially reducing crew size significantly.

The U.S. Air Force's B-1B Lancer bombers continue to conduct long-range precision strikes and support Bomber Task Force missions from locations such as Andersen Air Force Base and Diego Garcia. Despite the presence of advanced air defense systems, the B-1B remains relevant due to its adaptability and capability to carry standoff munitions. The aircraft plays a crucial role in demonstrating interoperability and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region while awaiting the arrival of the B-21 Raider.

A five megawatt nuclear reactor was transported from California to Utah using a C-17 airlifter. This operation is part of U.S. military energy resilience tests, indicating a focus on enhancing energy capabilities.

NATO launched its first coordinated Arctic operation, Arctic Sentry, on February 11, 2023, involving tens of thousands of personnel and equipment. The operation aims to enhance military coordination among allies in response to Russia's military buildup in the Arctic. The UK announced it will increase its troop presence in Norway to 2,000 over the next three years. Despite these efforts, NATO's capabilities in the Arctic remain limited compared to Russia's established military infrastructure.

Alexandra ReevesMon Feb 16 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force announced a $145 million contract for the development of an Air-to-Air Dual Mode weapon based on the Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System (APKWS) on February 13, 2026. This initiative aims to counter Group 3 unmanned aerial systems by integrating upgraded components, including an infrared seeker. The program will produce 300 prototype rounds, with testing planned on the F-16 platform, and aims for initial capability within 24 months.

DARPA launched the Fleetwood program on February 13, 2026, to develop advanced catalytic technologies for converting biomass waste into carbon-based chemicals. The initiative aims to enhance supply chain resilience and improve the processing of lignin from various biomass sources. The program is structured as a 24-month research effort, with responses to the notice due by March 13, 2026.

Military personnel stationed at Triangle Mountain reunited with their families during the Spring Festival. Chen Fujun, who has served for 19 years, welcomed his wife and two daughters after a long journey of over 1,000 kilometers. The reunion underscores the sacrifices made by military families and the importance of their support in maintaining security at the border.

The United States Air Force's F-22 Raptor program is facing severe operational and financial challenges, with a mission-capable rate of only 40% in fiscal year 2024. The cost to operate each F-22 is approximately $85,325 per flight hour, and the per-jet price is around $334 million. An upgrade program to enhance the aircraft's capabilities will require an additional $8 billion investment, while only 142 Raptors remain operational.

U.S. military and intelligence officials are discussing support for Israeli airstrikes on Iran's missile facilities, as President Trump promised Prime Minister Netanyahu assistance if no agreement is reached with Iran. The discussions include air refueling and securing overflight permissions from other countries, although Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have stated they will not permit their airspace to be used for such operations.

Trump expressed support for Israeli airstrikes on Iranian missile facilities if US-Iran negotiations fail. This promise was made during a meeting with Netanyahu in Florida. US military officials are discussing how to assist Israel, including air refueling and airspace agreements, while Jordan and Saudi Arabia have publicly stated they will not allow their airspace to be used for such operations.

Space Force has exceeded its recruitment goals, reaching 125% of its target for FY 2026, as it aims to double its size to 20,000 guardians. This expansion is driven by national security concerns regarding threats from Chinese and Russian space capabilities. The service has consistently met its recruitment goals since its establishment in December 2019 and is also deploying new satellites and establishing strategic terrestrial outposts.

Canada is currently reviewing its fighter jet procurement strategy while making payments for long-lead items for 14 additional F-35 jets. U.S. officials have warned that reducing the planned 88 F-35s could impact NORAD operations. Ottawa is also considering a mixed fleet of F-35s and Saab Gripen to reduce dependence on the U.S. and manage costs.

The U.S. Army is set to roll out four prototypes of the M1E3 Abrams tank in Detroit during summer 2026, five years ahead of the original schedule. These prototypes will allow soldiers to train on the new systems and provide feedback for further development. The M1E3 is designed to integrate lessons learned from recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine, and will feature advanced technology and modular systems.

The U.S. Navy is deploying a second aircraft carrier group to the Middle East to counter Iranian missile threats. This move is part of a broader strategy to deter aggression and assess vulnerabilities in naval operations. Iran's anti-ship ballistic missiles, potentially aided by Chinese satellite tracking, pose significant risks to U.S. carriers. The ongoing situation reflects a larger strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region, with implications for future conflicts involving Taiwan.

The U.S. Navy is developing the Trump-class battleship, a new class of guided-missile battleship intended to replace retiring cruisers. This ship will be 840-880 feet long, displacing over 35,000 tons, and equipped with advanced weaponry including hypersonic missile tubes and a railgun. The Navy plans to construct 25 of these vessels as part of its Golden Fleet initiative, despite concerns over costs and vulnerability to modern missile threats.

The U.S. Air Force is reviewing the cost structure of the T-7A Red Hawk trainer aircraft program as it approaches the Milestone C decision phase, amid schedule delays and development challenges. Boeing has reported over $2 billion in losses tied to the program, raising concerns about cost stability and sustainment readiness. The T-7A is designed to replace the T-38 Talon and is crucial for maintaining pilot training capacity.

The U.S. Department of War and the Department of Energy transported a next-generation nuclear reactor aboard a C-17 military aircraft from March Air Reserve Base to Hill Air Force Base on February 15, 2026. The reactor will be tested at the Utah San Rafael Energy Research Center as part of a federal initiative to modernize nuclear capabilities, aiming for operational capability by July 4, 2026.

The U.S. Navy is implementing a new strategy to enhance flexibility in deployments by utilizing smaller, advanced vessels instead of large aircraft carriers. This shift, articulated by Admiral Daryl Caudle, aims to address operational challenges in regions like the Caribbean and Venezuela. The Navy has recently deployed 11 ships in South America, marking a significant change from previous practices. Caudle advocates for tailored deployment solutions and increased reliance on drones and robotic systems for mission effectiveness.