Analysis & Reports

Liminal Industries is set to demonstrate its DUEL-V unmanned ground vehicle to U.S. military evaluators at Camp Grafton, North Dakota, in mid-October 2023. This demonstration is part of the GroundBreaker 1 competition, which aims to accelerate the military's adoption of unmanned ground vehicles for various missions. The DUEL-V is designed for low cost and adaptability, with a focus on scalability.

The USS Ted Stevens (DDG 128) arrived in Whittier, Alaska, on September 27, 2026, ahead of its commissioning ceremony scheduled for October 3, 2026. This Flight III Arleigh Burke-class destroyer is equipped with advanced radar and combat systems, marking a significant addition to the U.S. Navy's fleet. The last commissioning in Alaska occurred in 2013, highlighting the importance of this event for the state and the Navy's presence in the region.

The U.S. Navy introduced the Block IV Virginia-class submarines, enhancing stealth, speed, and survivability. These submarines are optimized for special operations, capable of launching Navy SEALs and equipped with advanced weapon systems, including the Virginia Payload Module for increased missile capacity. Eight of the 26 commissioned Virginia-class submarines are Block IVs, with ongoing developments for future Block V submarines.

USS Gerald R. Ford completed a 326-day deployment in May 2026, covering over 57,700 nautical miles and logging more than 12,200 flight launches. The carrier, which cost $13.3 billion to build, introduced advanced technologies such as the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System and Advanced Arresting Gear. The USS John F. Kennedy, the second carrier in the class, is expected to be operational by spring 2027.

The U.S. Navy analyzed the feasibility of titanium nuclear submarines during the Cold War and ultimately decided against their construction due to high costs and complexity. The Soviet Union built 13 titanium submarines, achieving notable speed and depth, but faced significant industrial challenges. The U.S. prioritized quieter submarines, investing in technologies that enhanced stealth over speed.

The U.S. Army tested the C100X drone at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pennsylvania, on September 25, 2023, evaluating its thermal camera and capability to drop inert munitions. This testing is part of a program aimed at enhancing troop training with realistic enemy threats. The C100X may be integrated into future training scenarios as the Army continues to develop its drone capabilities.

Canada is seeking military support from Europe, particularly through the European Security Action tool (SAFE), to enhance its defense capabilities amid perceived threats from the U.S. The Canadian government plans to acquire up to 12 advanced submarines and increase its defense budget significantly by 2024. Additionally, Canada is diversifying its procurement strategy by considering alternatives to the F-35 fighter jets.

The U.S. Navy is repurposing its three Zumwalt-class destroyers as hypersonic strike platforms, transitioning from their original role of shore bombardment. This transformation allows them to launch Conventional Prompt Strike missiles, enhancing their strike capabilities against high-value targets. However, the limited magazine depth of only a dozen missiles per ship raises concerns about their effectiveness in extended conflicts.

The F-14 Tomcat experienced severe performance issues due to the use of the TF30 engine, which was incompatible with its high-G maneuvering needs, leading to numerous crashes. In the late 1980s, the introduction of the F110 engine transformed the aircraft's capabilities, allowing for aggressive maneuvers and significantly improving safety and performance. The F-14's operational effectiveness was greatly enhanced, enabling it to fulfill its intended role more effectively in combat operations.

The U.S. Army selected 30 finalists for a competition aimed at developing cheaper interceptors to complement the Patriot air defense system. The finalists, which include major defense firms and startups from the U.S., Australia, and the U.K., will demonstrate their technologies between October 1 and November 30. Winners may receive substantial financial awards and potential contracts for further development.

Swarm Defense Technologies received an order for 4,000 Kiwi one-way attack drones from the U.S. Department of War’s Drone Dominance Program on September 22. The drones will be produced at the company's facility in Auburn Hills, Michigan, with a minimum order value of $25 million. This order is part of a broader initiative to enhance drone capabilities for U.S. combat units.

The U.S. Army introduced the SIG M250 as a replacement for the M249 SAW, weighing 13 pounds compared to the M249's 17 pounds. However, the heavier 6.8x51mm ammunition results in the gunner carrying 3.6 pounds more and 200 fewer rounds. The Army aims to enhance squad capabilities against armored targets at longer ranges, with plans to procure 2,636 additional units by FY2026.

The U.S. Navy established the Robotic and Autonomous Systems Warfighting Development Center (RASWDC) at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, Virginia, to enhance its drone warfare capabilities. Rear Adm. Melvin Smith was appointed as the first commander. The center will focus on integrating unmanned systems into naval operations and training, ensuring that sailors are equipped with advanced tools and tactics for effective deployment.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking a contractor to replace the DAR-400 encryption unit on its 15 E-3G AWACS radar planes at Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, due to obsolescence and compliance issues with NSA security requirements. The Air Force has a government-owned solution based on the KG-204 to ensure operational continuity and data security. This upgrade is critical to maintaining the aircraft's mission capabilities.

The U.S. Marine Corps awarded a $404.4 million contract to Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace for the production of Naval Strike Missile launchers and fire control systems. The contract will be executed primarily in Kongsberg, Norway, and Johnstown, Pennsylvania, through September 2024. The Marine Corps plans to acquire 32 NMESIS launchers and 103 Naval Strike Missiles as part of its fiscal 2027 budget request, enhancing its long-range anti-ship capabilities.

Ukraine and Finland signed a defense agreement on September 23, 2023, in New York, focusing on joint drone production and technology transfer. Presidents Alexander Stubb and Vladimir Zelensky highlighted the mutual benefits of this cooperation, aiming to enhance military capabilities and strengthen bilateral relations.

The U.S. Marine Corps transitioned from the M16A4 to the M4 carbine as the standard infantry rifle in 2015 due to the M4's superior performance in urban combat. The M16A4, while reliable and accurate, was less suited for close-quarters engagements. The transition was completed by September 30, 2016, with the M4 being fielded across infantry battalions.

In 2009, the U.S. Air Force ended production of the F-22 Raptor, having built only 195 units instead of the planned 750, due to a shift in military focus from countering Soviet threats to engaging in counterinsurgency operations. The tooling for the F-22 was destroyed, complicating any potential restart of production. The Air Force is now preparing to introduce the F-47 as its next-generation air superiority fighter.

The United States Marine Corps is restructuring under the Ground Combat Element 2040 roadmap, focusing on light, dispersed units to counter maritime threats. This includes the divestment of main battle tanks and an emphasis on AI and uncrewed systems by the late 2030s. The changes aim to enhance operational effectiveness against potential conflicts, particularly with China in the Indo-Pacific region.

In 2009, a U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler achieved a simulated kill against an F-22 Raptor during a training exercise at Nellis Air Force Base. This incident underscores the evolving nature of air combat, where electronic warfare and tactics can influence outcomes, even against advanced fifth-generation fighters. The F-22 remains recognized as the leading air superiority platform despite this simulated defeat.