Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy conducted operations in the Pacific Ocean on June 28, 2024, involving the USS Louisiana and USS Florida amid ongoing tensions with Iran. The failed Memorandum of Understanding has led to renewed conflict, with both nations unwilling to negotiate. Iran is banking on U.S. domestic political pressures to influence the war's outcome.

The Russian Navy decommissioned the Lada-class submarine Sankt Petersburg in 2023 due to persistent failures and high costs associated with its development. The Lada-class was intended to enhance Russia's undersea warfare capabilities but has been plagued by issues since its inception. Efforts to export the submarines have also failed, with no interest from potential buyers.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $2.2 billion contract to TOTE Services LLC for the construction of new Medium Landing Ships (LSMs) in Jacksonville, Florida. Construction is set to begin later this year, with the first ship scheduled for delivery in fall 2029. This initiative is part of the Navy's strategy to enhance capabilities in potential conflicts in the Indo-Pacific region.

Gas prices in the U.S. have increased by 10 cents due to renewed conflict between the U.S. and Iran, following the collapse of a ceasefire. This rise in prices is linked to surging oil prices and ongoing military actions in the region. Additionally, China's reduced crude oil imports and Russia's diesel export ban are contributing to tighter global refined product markets.

The U.S. Navy announced plans to procure 15 Trump-Class Battleships, with the first ship costing $17.47 billion. This program, projected to total around $200 billion, has raised concerns about its viability in modern warfare, particularly against advanced missile threats. The initiative may face political challenges that could lead to its cancellation.

The Pentagon is assessing the titanium and magnesium supply needs for military hardware production amid potential wartime disruptions. On July 14, 2023, the Defense Logistics Agency issued Requests for Information to gather data on current usage and demand for these critical materials. The U.S. currently relies on imports for titanium and magnesium, raising concerns about supply chain vulnerabilities in defense manufacturing.

The U.S. Navy is conducting exercises in the Pacific Ocean to enhance strike group readiness. U.S. military operations have significantly degraded Iranian military capabilities, limiting its threat to regional neighbors. The U.S. is also initiating reconstruction efforts in the Greater Middle East and brokering diplomatic deals to stabilize the region. Trump's administration aims to form a coalition to ensure regional security and prevent the resurgence of Iranian influence.

On July 14, France held its National Day military parade in Paris, showcasing 6700 soldiers, 315 vehicles, 98 aircraft, and 31 helicopters. The event emphasized military readiness and strategic autonomy, with participation from Ukrainian forces and other allies. This parade served as a political signal of Europe's commitment to controlling its own destiny amid challenges from the U.S. and Russia. Macron aims to leave a legacy of military strengthening and European strategic awakening.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking proposals for a new engine that can take off like a rocket and cruise like a jet, focusing on Rotating Detonation Rocket Engines (RDREs) and storable propellants. This request, published on July 14, 2023, aims to enhance missile capabilities and logistics by integrating advanced propulsion technologies. The Air Force has conducted around 300 tests of RDREs since 2021, indicating a serious commitment to developing this technology for operational use.

On October 13, 2023, a missile defense alliance was established in Paris involving Ukraine and nine European nations, led by France and the UK. This alliance aims to enhance Ukraine's defense capabilities and conduct military exercises in neighboring countries. France announced plans to supply 16 Rafale fighter jets and develop the Freya missile defense system, while approximately 25 nations are expected to participate in upcoming military exercises.

Lt. Gen. Doug Schiess is set to appear before the Senate Armed Services Committee as he seeks confirmation as the third Chief of Space Operations. The Space Force plans to double its personnel from 10,000 to 20,000 by 2030, facing challenges in recruitment and structure. Strategies include restoring service for separated members, interservice transfers, and direct appointments from industry to ensure a sustainable force structure. The Space Force also aims to expand its operational footprint into new states to enhance recruitment and congressional support.

Ukraine launched drone strikes against Russian oil refineries and shipping in the Black Sea, targeting facilities in Bashkortostan and Krasnodar Krai. Russian air defenses intercepted 288 drones overnight, while Ukrainian forces reported successful hits on multiple vessels. These operations are part of a broader strategy to disrupt Russian energy supplies and logistics, contributing to a fuel crisis in Russia.

The Ukrainian Navy confirmed the destruction of the Russian border guard ship Izumrud near Novorossiysk on July 14, 2026, using the Sargan-3000 unmanned surface strike boat. Satellite imagery shows the ship partially submerged and the surrounding pier scorched, validating the Ukrainian claims. This incident adds to the ongoing degradation of Russia's naval capabilities in the Black Sea.

The USS Gerald R. Ford entered dry dock in Norfolk, Virginia, on July 7, 2023, for scheduled maintenance following a record 326-day overseas deployment. This deployment, the longest since the Vietnam War, revealed various operational challenges and equipment failures, necessitating extensive repairs. The increasing frequency of prolonged deployments among U.S. carriers highlights ongoing logistical issues within the Navy.

The Admiral Kuznetsov, Russia's only aircraft carrier, is set to be scrapped in Murmansk by 2025 after years of failed repairs and multiple accidents. The vessel has been out of service since 2017, and its decommissioning reflects the Russian Navy's inability to maintain modern naval capabilities. Corruption and financial mismanagement further complicated the situation, leaving Russia without an operational aircraft carrier and diminishing its power projection capabilities.

Turkey is negotiating to sell its Russian-made S-400 missile system to acquire U.S. F-35 fighter jets, amid significant political and military implications. The U.S. has expressed concerns about Turkey's S-400 system preventing the sale of F-35s, while Israel opposes the deal, fearing it would disrupt regional power dynamics. Discussions with Russia regarding the resale of the S-400 are ongoing, adding complexity to the situation.

Ghostworks introduced the Multirole Remote Logistics Node (MRLN) at the Pennsylvania Defense and Innovation Summit on July 14. This system allows for the reconfiguration of vessels for various missions, enhancing operational flexibility. The Minerva-class vessel, equipped with MRLN, can carry significant payloads while maintaining high speeds in moderate sea conditions. This innovation aims to improve naval logistics and operational capabilities in contested waters.

GE Aerospace announced the selection of its CT7-2E1 engine to power 23 AW149 helicopters for the UK Ministry of Defence on July 14, 2023. This decision enhances logistical efficiency and maintenance for the UK armed forces, as the AW149 will replace the retired Puma HC2 fleet. The engine's production and support will occur at various UK facilities, contributing to local economic and social initiatives.

The U.S. Army's M10 Booker Combat Vehicle program, initiated to provide infantry with mobile, protected firepower, encountered severe design and procurement issues from 2013 to 2024. The vehicle ultimately became too heavy and complex, failing to meet its original mission requirements. Despite significant investment, the program was deemed a failure, highlighting systemic issues within Pentagon acquisitions.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets in Bushehr, Chabahar, and Abbas Port on October 13-14, 2023. President Trump announced the restoration of a maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting U.S. control over shipping in the area. In retaliation, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked the U.S. Fifth Fleet in Bahrain. The situation escalates tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with potential implications for global energy security.