Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading the B-52H Stratofortress to the B-52J, enhancing its capabilities with new engines and advanced radar systems. This modernization aims to extend the bomber's service life into the 2050s, allowing it to carry advanced munitions while supporting the nuclear triad. The program is currently over budget and delayed, with completion expected by 2033. The future bomber fleet will consist of around 200 aircraft, including both B-21s and B-52Js.

In 2024, Iran launched drone and cruise missile attacks against critical infrastructure in Israel, marking the first sustained state-on-state drone conflict in the Middle East. Israel responded with advanced UAS platforms and layered air defenses. The conflict highlighted the strategic importance of persistent ISR and precision targeting, prompting regional nations to reassess their airpower strategies and invest in systems like the MQ-9B and Gambit Series for enhanced military capabilities.

U.S. Marines and British Royal Marines conducted a simulated battle exercise at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton and Twentynine Palms, California. Media reports inaccurately claimed that U.S. Marines suffered a humiliating surrender, which was debunked by military officials emphasizing the exercise's focus on readiness and interoperability. This incident highlights the risks of misinformation affecting allied military cooperation.

The U.S. Coast Guard conducted training with tactical jet skis for interdiction operations in San Diego and Coronado Beach on January 14-15, 2023. This training is part of the Coast Guard's Office of Rapid Response and Prototyping program, aimed at enhancing drug interdiction capabilities. The Coast Guard has seized over 200,000 lbs. of cocaine in the eastern Pacific since launching Operation Pacific Viper.

Defense One launched 'Fictional Intelligence' on February 6, 2026, a new column by Peter W. Singer and August Cole that explores future warfare and security through fictional narratives. The column aims to provide insights into national security challenges, with the first installment focusing on space operations and China's growing presence in Latin America. This initiative reflects a trend in using narrative to enhance strategic thinking in military and policy contexts.

Moscow expresses concern over U.S. military expansion in Greenland, fearing it may threaten Russian submarine operations. Russian officials view the situation as a validation of their power projection stance, while also indicating potential complications for their naval operations in the Atlantic. The crisis is seen as a strategic opportunity for Russia amidst perceived divisions within NATO.

Two F-22 Raptors from the U.S. Air Force withdrew from the Super Bowl performance on February 6, 2021, due to operational tasking. Katie Spencer stated that the aircraft were reassigned to meet increased military demands. The F-22s have been involved in recent significant operations, including monitoring potential threats.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu is visiting the United States this week to discuss Iran's nuclear and missile capabilities with President Trump. Israel's security assessments indicate that Iran is relocating some missiles to complicate potential strikes, and if unchallenged, Iran's missile inventory could reach around 2000. Concerns are raised about potential missile threats from Hezbollah and Houthi forces in response to U.S. actions against Iran.

Lockheed Martin projected nearly 300 F-35s will be deployed by U.S. allies in the Asia-Pacific by 2035, emphasizing the aircraft's role in enhancing regional air power and interoperability among allies. Japan, Australia, South Korea, and Singapore are key players in this buildup, with Japan acquiring 147 F-35s and Singapore receiving its first F-35B this year. This strategic shift is a response to China's military modernization and aims to strengthen collective defense capabilities in the region.

On October 8, the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned Israeli decisions regarding the West Bank, labeling them as war crimes. The ministry asserted that Israel has no sovereignty over Palestinian territories and called for international condemnation and investigations into these actions.

Ukrainian President Zelensky announced that the U.S. has proposed negotiations for a ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia before June 2023, coinciding with the U.S. midterm elections. Zelensky confirmed Ukraine's willingness to participate in talks in the U.S. amid concerns about potential U.S. pressure on Ukraine regarding territorial issues. The situation remains complex as both sides continue to negotiate amidst ongoing military actions.

General George Patton, influenced by a martial family legacy, overcame early struggles with dyslexia to become a prominent military leader. His upbringing included mentorship from Confederate officer John Singleton Mosby and significant literary exposure from his mother, which shaped his leadership philosophy. Patton's quote emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals rather than micromanaging them.

The U.S. administration has set a June deadline for Ukraine and Russia to negotiate a peace deal, with talks scheduled in Miami. President Zelenskyy expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the proposed terms, particularly regarding the Donbas region. The negotiations are seen as influenced by U.S. domestic politics ahead of the midterm elections, sidelining European leaders in the process.

Dmitri VolkovSun Feb 08 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force is engaged in a debate over the fiscal sustainability of the F-47 NGAD fighter jet, which has a unit cost of $300 million and a limited production run of 186-200 units. The aircraft is designed to serve as a command node for autonomous drones, enhancing operational capabilities. Plans are in place to export a toned-down version to allies, ensuring continued air superiority.

The U.S. is developing the F-47 NGAD fighter aircraft, a $20 billion program aimed at replacing the F-22 Raptor and enhancing air superiority. This sixth-generation stealth fighter has been in secret development for five years and is designed to operate with autonomous drone swarms. The F-47 will incorporate advanced technologies to ensure that America's enemies will not see it coming, marking a significant shift in U.S. military capabilities.

The U.S. Navy is planning to develop the Trump-class battleship USS Defiant, which is projected to cost between $13 to $20 billion. Critics express skepticism about its strategic relevance and high cost, arguing it contradicts the Navy's shift towards distributed operations. The project faces challenges including labor shortages in shipyards and potential political hurdles in Congress. The USS Defiant aims to incorporate advanced weapon systems, including hypersonic missiles and electromagnetic railguns, but its future remains uncertain.

Multi-national Special Operations Forces participated in a submarine insertion exercise with the USS Hawaii (SSN 776) off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii, on July 9, 2018, during RIMPAC 2018. The exercise involved 25,000 personnel, 46 ships, and 5 submarines, showcasing the capabilities of the U.S. Navy's new USS Arizona (SSN-803) equipped with the Virginia Payload Module. This module enhances the submarine's firepower and operational flexibility.

Canada is reconsidering its $19 billion commitment to purchase 88 F-35 fighter jets, as Prime Minister Mark Carney signals a shift towards exploring options with Sweden's JAS 39 Gripen and China. This decision comes amid tensions with the U.S. over trade and defense policy, with Canada having already paid for 16 F-35s. The potential switch to the Gripen could enhance Canada's defense industrial base and job creation.

The USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) completed its modernization and sea trials in January 2026, now equipped with the Conventional Prompt Strike (CPS) system, enabling it to launch hypersonic missiles. This upgrade positions the Zumwalt as a strategic deterrent for the U.S. Navy, enhancing its capabilities to strike global targets within an hour. The modernization effort also includes plans for the other two Zumwalt-class destroyers to receive similar upgrades.

The U.S. Air Force banned the use of smart glasses by service members in uniform as of January 9, 2024, due to operational security concerns. The ban specifically targets devices with recording capabilities, reflecting worries about the risks posed by wearable technology on military installations. While other military branches have not implemented a similar ban, the Air Force emphasizes the need to address the challenges posed by such technologies in sensitive environments.