Analysis & Reports

On May 13, 2023, the Russian Army conducted large-scale drone attacks across multiple regions in Ukraine, including Transcarpathia, Lviv, and Ivano-Frankivsk. The assaults involved at least 800 drones, resulting in six fatalities and numerous injuries. Local officials described this as the largest attack since the conflict began, with explosions reported in various communities and ongoing air raid alerts in affected cities.

Russia successfully tested the Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile on December 12, 2023, confirming its operational readiness by the end of the year. President Putin stated that the missile, capable of carrying multiple nuclear warheads and with a range exceeding 35,000 kilometers, will significantly enhance Russia's strategic nuclear capabilities. The test was reported by the Russian Strategic Rocket Forces, indicating a major advancement in their military arsenal.

The U.S. Air Force's MQ-9 Reaper fleet has decreased to about 135 aircraft due to combat losses in Operation Epic Fury. Despite this reduction, the fleet continues to support 56 combat lines globally. The Air Force is actively seeking to replace the MQ-9 with a more affordable and flexible platform, with industry interest in developing a next-generation drone.

General Dynamics developed the F-16XL fighter prototype in the 1980s, featuring 27 hardpoints and capable of carrying twice the payload of a standard F-16. It was designed for the Enhanced Tactical Fighter program but lost to the F-15E due to its single-engine and one-seat configuration. Following the competition, the F-16XL was transferred to NASA for research on aerodynamic efficiency.

The F-16XL, developed by General Dynamics in the 1980s, featured 27 hardpoints and could carry twice the payload of a standard F-16. It was designed for deep-strike missions but lost the Enhanced Tactical Fighter competition to the F-15E, which was favored for its two-seat configuration and greater capabilities. After the competition, the F-16XL was transferred to NASA for research.

Taiwan invests over 3% of its GDP in defense, purchasing American weapons to counter Chinese threats. It is a key producer of semiconductor chips, vital for U.S. military capabilities. Taiwan's commitment to defense and democracy positions it as a model ally for the U.S. amid rising tensions with China.

Airman Aaron Bushnell self-immolated in Washington, D.C. on February 25, 2024, to protest Israeli military actions in Gaza. The U.S. Air Force ruled his death as misconduct, overturning an initial finding of mental health issues. Bushnell had expressed strong pro-Palestine views and livestreamed his protest, stating he would no longer be complicit in genocide.

U.S. Army Brig. Gen. William Parker emphasized the growing demand for Indo-Pacific air defenders during the 2026 Land Forces of the Pacific Symposium in Hawaii. The 94th Army Air and Missile Defense Command focuses on protecting critical assets from missile and drone threats, reflecting the region's strategic importance amid rising tensions with China and North Korea. The command is modernizing its capabilities, including the Integrated Air and Missile Defense Battle Command System, and highlights the necessity of allied collaboration in defense efforts.

U.S. and allied forces conducted the largest-ever Balikatan exercises in the Philippines from April 20 to May 8, 2026, featuring live-fire drills and missile tests. On May 5, the U.S. Army operationally fired a Tomahawk missile from the Typhon system, while Japan conducted its first overseas offensive missile test since WWII. In response, the PLA deployed naval forces, including the aircraft carrier Liaoning, to the region, signaling increased military activity amid heightened tensions.

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The U.S. Air Force finalized requirements for a new drone to replace the MQ-9A Reaper, which has been in service since 2007. During a Senate hearing, officials discussed the need to replenish combat losses and the desire for a more cost-effective, modular platform. The Air Force is also exploring options to buy back MQ-9A drones, with current numbers reduced to approximately 135.

Chinese-made FN-16 man-portable air defense systems are currently in service with the Ukrainian 160th Mechanized Brigade, which is actively engaged in air defense operations. The brigade's press service confirmed their use in detecting and destroying enemy aerial threats. The origin of these systems is speculated to be linked to intercepted cargo from Iran, although this remains unverified. The operational use of FN-16s includes intercepting advanced threats like Kalibr cruise missiles, showcasing their effectiveness in the current conflict.

Iran launched thousands of missiles and drones at Israel and Gulf States since February 28, 2023, with Israeli defenses intercepting nearly 90% of the 650 medium-range ballistic missiles aimed at Israel. The attacks resulted in 24 civilian casualties and significant damage to US facilities. Iran's missile accuracy has improved, complicating defense efforts, while missile defenses are reportedly strained due to high usage of interceptors.

Coordinated insurgent attacks by the Front de Libération de l'Azawad (FLA) and Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) struck multiple locations in Mali on April 25-26, 2026, resulting in significant casualties, including the death of Defense Minister General Sadio Camara. The FLA and JNIM claimed control over several strategic areas, prompting the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) to initiate retaliatory airstrikes. The situation reflects a concerning tactical alliance between historically rival groups.

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On May 13, 2026, Russian forces launched over 200 one-way attack drones across Ukraine, targeting residential areas and energy infrastructure, resulting in civilian casualties. The strikes occurred in multiple regions, including Dnipropetrovsk and Kyiv, following the collapse of a ceasefire. Ukrainian forces simultaneously executed deep-strike operations against Russian oil facilities, highlighting vulnerabilities in Russia's air defense.

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U.S. Special Operations Command adopted Reveal's Identifi mobile biometric system as a Program of Record on May 13, 2023. This system enables identity verification and threat assessment without relying on network connectivity, enhancing operational efficiency for special operators. Initial fielding has begun, with plans for broader deployment through fiscal 2026.

The Eastern Theater Command Navy conducted multiple day and night flight training exercises to enhance rapid response and coordinated combat capabilities. Pilots performed detailed checks on fighter jets before takeoff, and training included low-altitude navigation and simulated search and rescue operations. Ground support personnel ensured readiness for subsequent night training sessions.

The Navy Mine Sweeping Fleet of the Southern Theater Command conducted anti-mine exercises in the South China Sea, involving multiple vessels. They successfully detected and neutralized underwater mines using explosive devices. The fleet is focused on improving training quality and operational readiness in response to increasing maritime threats.

The U.S. Army has cleared the CODiAQ armed quadruped robot for operational test and evaluation, with live fire training scheduled for October 2026. This system, developed by Australian Skyborne Technologies, will be evaluated by U.S. Special Operations Command and a foreign ally. The contract includes 14 systems equipped with 28 modular weapon payloads, emphasizing safety and operational utility in high-risk environments.

Iran launched a significant missile and drone attack on the United Arab Emirates on May 4, resulting in the interception of 12 ballistic missiles and 4 drones. Kuwait confirmed a drone incursion on May 10, while a Qatari cargo vessel was struck by a drone the same day. Gulf states are ramping up defense spending and rearmament efforts in response to these escalating threats, with Saudi Arabia allocating $78 billion to defense in 2025.

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The U.S. Army evaluated the Wraith autonomous electronic warfare drone during Exercise Ivy Mass at Fort Carson, Colorado, in May 2026. The drone successfully conducted nearly a dozen autonomous missions, geolocating and identifying radio frequency threats without GPS. This evaluation aimed to enhance the Army's electronic warfare capabilities in environments where GPS is compromised, providing actionable intelligence to ground commanders.