Analysis & Reports

During a Pentagon prayer service, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth prayed for overwhelming violence against enemies, referencing a prayer used in the operation against Nicolás Maduro. This marked the first monthly Christian worship ceremony since the Iran war began. Hegseth's remarks have drawn criticism from advocacy groups concerned about the intersection of faith and military policy.

The US Army has selected Carlyle and CyrusOne to negotiate for commercial hyperscale data centers at Fort Bliss in Texas and Dugway Proving Ground in Utah. This initiative is part of the Enhanced Use Lease program, aimed at bolstering national security and technological innovation. The Army plans to sign its first leasing agreement by July 1, with the companies responsible for all costs and operations related to the projects.

MBDA is significantly increasing its production capabilities and investments in response to geopolitical demands, with a projected revenue growth to 5.8 billion Euro by 2025. The company plans to invest 2.5 billion Euro, doubling previous forecasts, and aims to produce twice as many missiles in 2025 compared to 2023. Key projects include the development of the Stratus and HYDIS missile systems, alongside a focus on air defense and counter-drone technologies.

The U.S. Navy announced a new Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel Family of Systems program, aiming to enhance autonomous capabilities and replace the terminated Modular Attack Surface Craft program. Solicitations for the new program will close on April 17, 2026, with the first production vessel expected by fiscal 2027. This initiative is part of the Navy's broader Golden Fleet strategy, which includes the construction of new Trump-class battleships.

The U.S. Navy announced a new Medium Unmanned Surface Vessel Family of Systems program, aiming to enhance autonomous capabilities and replace the terminated MASC program. The solicitation for this program will close on April 17, 2025, with the first production vessel expected in fiscal 2027. This initiative is part of the Navy's broader Golden Fleet strategy, which includes the development of new Trump-class battleships.

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth announced that military chaplains will replace their rank insignia with religious insignia to reflect their faith affiliation during a message at the Pentagon on February 7, 2025. This change aims to emphasize the spiritual role of chaplains over their military rank. Hegseth also mentioned a new Religious Affiliates Code to streamline the previous system of faith codes.

Switzerland expressed strong dissatisfaction with the U.S. reallocating funds intended for the purchase of F-35 fighter jets to other military projects. This decision has led to significant pressure on the Swiss defense procurement process, prompting officials to reconsider future arms contracts with the U.S. The Swiss parliament is particularly upset, especially after the U.S. delayed the delivery of Patriot missile systems, causing Switzerland to pause further payments.

U.S. Senators Elizabeth Warren and Josh Hawley introduced the Prioritizing the Warfighter in Defense Contracting Act of 2026 in Washington. The bipartisan bill aims to restrict defense contractors from conducting share buybacks, issuing dividends, and raising executive compensation unless they meet specific performance criteria. The Defense Department will review contractors with significant revenue to determine waiver eligibility, with penalties for non-compliance.

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) is developing a policy framework to enhance AI adoption for cybersecurity within the intelligence community. This initiative is part of a broader effort to modernize tech tools and improve the cyber posture of U.S. intelligence agencies. Director Tulsi Gabbard highlighted the necessity of protecting sensitive information against foreign adversaries and criminal hackers. The modernization includes aligning systems with the Defense Department and implementing a zero-trust model.

Rep. Rob Wittman discussed Army modernization efforts and the relationship between Congress and the Pentagon during the McAleese & Associates conference last week. He emphasized the importance of implementing 'right to repair' rules in the upcoming National Defense Authorization Act.

The U.S. Senate rejected a proposal on Wednesday to overturn the Department of Veterans Affairs' ban on abortions, voting 50-48. This ban, deemed the most restrictive in federal healthcare, prohibits abortions even in cases of rape or incest. Senator Richard Blumenthal criticized the decision, highlighting its impact on 462,000 women veterans. The new policy limits abortion access at VA medical centers to life-threatening situations only, reversing a previous policy that allowed for broader access.

The House Armed Services Committee approved the ALERT Act to enhance aviation safety following a 2025 midair collision near Washington, D.C. The legislation mandates that military aircraft install crash prevention technology by 2031, aiming to prevent future accidents while addressing national security concerns. The committee voted unanimously in favor of the bill, which incorporates recommendations from federal investigators.

The U.S. military has conducted strikes on over 10,000 targets in Iran since February 28, 2023, according to Adm. Brad Cooper. A recent poll indicates that 59% of Americans view these actions as excessive. President Trump claimed the conflict is 'ahead of schedule' and will conclude soon, while the Pentagon affirmed that operations will persist. A diplomatic proposal has been made to Iran through intermediaries.

China's Ministry of Defense spokesperson Jiang Bin addressed the escalating tensions in the Middle East during a press conference, calling for an immediate ceasefire and dialogue. He rejected military actions that violate international law and emphasized China's commitment to peace and stability in the region. Jiang also dismissed claims regarding the deployment of Chinese naval vessels in the Hormuz Strait as false.

The U.S. Air Force and Space Force are implementing acquisition reforms to enhance the effectiveness of program managers responsible for delivering military capabilities. These reforms aim to address issues of cost overruns and delays in defense programs, emphasizing the need for improved training aligned with industry standards. The report highlights the critical role of program managers in ensuring timely delivery of next-generation military technologies and capabilities.

The U.S. Coast Guard's operations are significantly impacted by a government shutdown that began on February 14, 2023. Civilian employees have not been paid, leading to halted processing of merchant mariner credentials and fisheries enforcement operations. The service has incurred over $200 million in unpaid bills, affecting its ability to recruit new personnel and maintain operational readiness. The vice commandant expressed concerns about the long-term implications of the shutdown on the Coast Guard's capabilities and trust in government support.

French Prime Minister Sebastian Lecornu announced an increase in military spending, with an additional 8.5 billion euros allocated for arms orders by 2030. This announcement includes the establishment of a new 'national security alert' mechanism to expedite decision-making in response to threats. The military budget is set to rise by 6.5 billion euros in 2026, alongside the creation of a platform to supply military needs and a 300 million euro support plan for dual-use military supplies.

The Pentagon is weighing the redirection of military aid, including air defense interceptor missiles, originally intended for Ukraine to the Middle East due to supply strains from the ongoing conflict in Iran. U.S. military operations in the region have intensified, with significant targets struck in Iran. NATO officials confirmed ongoing contributions to Ukraine's military aid program.

The Pentagon is weighing the redirection of military aid originally intended for Ukraine to the Middle East due to supply strains from the war in Iran. This includes air defense interceptor missiles purchased through a NATO initiative. U.S. military operations in the region have intensified, with over 10,000 targets hit in Iran. NATO officials confirmed ongoing contributions to the military aid program for Ukraine.

Brigadier General Billy Mitchell advocated for the strategic importance of air power in modern warfare during a 1935 congressional hearing. He believed that the nation controlling the air would dominate globally and criticized military leadership for underestimating aviation. Mitchell's ideas were revolutionary, leading to significant changes in military strategy, although he faced backlash for his outspoken views.