Analysis & Reports

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) introduced the HYPNOSIS navigation warfare system to counter drone swarms by disrupting their navigation signals. This system employs jamming and spoofing techniques, offering a soft-kill defense option that complements existing missile defense systems. IAI aims to provide militaries with cost-effective solutions against the growing threat of inexpensive drones.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched missile and drone strikes against a U.S. military base in Azraq, Jordan, on the evening of the 17th. The attack resulted in the destruction of at least 2 fighter jets and 3 aircraft, with several others suffering significant damage.

On July 17, four drones were shot down near the US consulate in Erbil, Iraq. A drone attack on an ammunition depot in Sulaymaniyah caused explosions and a fire. Additionally, Iran launched missiles at Sulaymaniyah, killing at least nine members of a local armed group. The Kurdish counter-terrorism agency reported the drone interceptions, highlighting a series of recent drone attacks in Iraq.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets in Chabahar on July 17, 2023. This operation, lasting 7 hours and 40 minutes, aimed to weaken Iran's military capabilities and follows six consecutive nights of similar actions. The strikes destroyed a surveillance tower linked to the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Russia is negotiating with Turkey regarding the future of Turkey's S-400 missile systems, which may be traded to lift U.S. sanctions and restore Turkey's NATO status. The S-400 has been a significant geopolitical factor, leading to Turkey's expulsion from the F-35 program and ongoing tensions with the U.S. Meanwhile, Ukraine has successfully targeted and destroyed several S-400 systems during the conflict.

The U.S. Military has expended over 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles in operations against Iran as of July 17, 2026, with estimates indicating 2,000 to 3,000 missiles remain. Following the collapse of a ceasefire on July 8, strikes resumed, raising concerns about the sustainability of U.S. missile stockpiles for future conflicts, particularly against China or Russia. The current production rate of Tomahawk missiles is insufficient to replenish the inventory depleted in the ongoing conflict.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps launched a counterattack on July 17 against U.S. forces at Udeid Air Base in Qatar, destroying a long-range radar system and several strategic refueling aircraft. This action was in retaliation for a prior U.S. attack on Iranian non-military targets. Iran issued a warning to the U.S. regarding the consequences of attacking civilians and infrastructure.

Saudi Arabia requested the purchase of 20,000 APKWS-II guidance sections from the U.S. for $1.96 billion, aimed at enhancing its air defense capabilities. The deal includes various support equipment and training, with BAE Systems as the primary contractor. This request comes amid increasing threats from Houthi forces, indicating a strategic shift towards more cost-effective munitions for defense operations.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched ballistic missiles and drones on July 17, destroying multiple U.S. military aircraft in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes on non-military targets in Southern Iran the previous night. The U.S. strikes targeted infrastructure in Abbas Port, including bridges and residential areas, resulting in casualties.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard attacked U.S. military aircraft deployed in Jordan on the night of the 16th, claiming to have destroyed multiple fighter jets and refueling aircraft. This action was a response to U.S. airstrikes on non-military targets in southern Iran, including bridges and residential areas. The operation involved the use of ballistic missiles and drones.

Axon Vision launched ForceField on July 16, 2026, in Tel Aviv, a new counter UAS protection solution designed to safeguard maneuvering forces against aerial threats, particularly FPV drones. The system integrates detection, analysis, and response capabilities into a compact solution that operates independently and can be quickly integrated with existing military platforms. It has successfully completed live-fire trials, demonstrating its ability to detect and neutralize threats in real time.

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) unveiled the HYPNOSIS air defense system, designed to disrupt GNSS-based aerial threats. The system features mobile jamming and spoofing stations that operate in unison, providing a critical soft-kill defense layer. It enhances existing kinetic interception systems and can autonomously protect strategic assets. IAI emphasizes its commitment to national security through this advanced technology.

The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Iran for the sixth consecutive night on October 16, 2023, targeting Iranian military capabilities. The strikes included attacks on command centers and air defense systems. The U.S. has also resumed its naval blockade against Iran. President Trump indicated that military actions will persist until Iran engages in negotiations.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iran on July 16, targeting military assets for the sixth consecutive night. The strikes aimed at command centers, air defense systems, and missile capabilities. President Trump indicated that military actions will persist until further notice, while Iran remains in communication with the U.S. regarding potential negotiations.

Iranian forces shot down a U.S. MQ-9 Reaper drone over Dasht-e Abas, Iran, on October 16. The drone was targeted by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force using a new air defense system. The wreckage was later found and recovered by local militia in the Dehloran County area.

Houthi forces resumed missile attacks on Saudi Arabia in July 2026, prompting a reassessment of the country's air defense systems, including Patriot and THAAD. The geopolitical landscape has shifted, with Iranian influence complicating the situation. Saudi Arabia faces simultaneous threats from multiple fronts, raising concerns about the effectiveness and cost of its defense network.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Jul 16 2026Loading...

The US State Department approved a potential $1.96 billion Foreign Military Sale of precision guided weapons to Saudi Arabia, including 20,000 Advanced Precision Kill Weapon Systems. This deal aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's air-to-air and air-to-ground defense capabilities. BAE Systems is the prime contractor for the sale, which reflects a pragmatic shift in US-Saudi relations amid regional threats from the Houthis and Iranian strikes.

The U.S. State Department approved a $1.96 billion arms sale to Saudi Arabia, which includes up to 20,000 laser-guided rockets. This sale aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's capabilities against low-cost drone threats, building on a previous purchase of 2,000 guidance kits. The Royal Saudi Air Force is expected to integrate these systems into its existing aircraft fleet.

Iran destroyed multiple U.S. military bases and facilities in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Jordan on July 16, 2023. The strikes included the Sheikh Isa Air Base's radar systems and the Ali Al Salem Air Base's satellite communication center. Iranian forces employed drones to target U.S. installations in Azraq, Jordan. Iran issued a warning of severe retaliation if U.S. strikes continue, indicating a potential escalation in military actions.

Axon Vision launched ForceField, an AI defense system designed to protect tanks and troops from FPV drones in Israel. The system utilizes EDGE AI technology for passive threat detection and can operate independently. It neutralizes threats using standard munitions, addressing logistical challenges faced by military forces. The development was validated through live-fire trials.