Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
China Is Now Building the World’s Largest Transport Aircraft Faster Than the U.S. or Russia — Because It Finally Fixed the Engine
China's People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) showcased dozens of Y-20B heavy transport aircraft during military exercises in 2023. The Y-20B, the largest transport aircraft globally, participated in refueling exercises with J-20 stealth fighters and simulated air-drop missions. This development highlights China's advancements in military logistics and airlift capabilities, with the Y-20B featuring new WS-20 engines that improve performance and production rates.
In 1985, an American Fighter Jet Climbed Straight Up and Shot Down a Satellite 345 Miles Above the Pacific. It Has Never Been Done Again.
On September 13, 1985, a U.S. Air Force F-15A fighter jet successfully shot down the Solwind P78-1 satellite 345 miles above the Pacific Ocean. This operation marked the first and only instance of an aircraft-launched satellite kill in history, utilizing the ASM-135 missile. Following the successful intercept, Congress banned further tests of the missile against satellites due to concerns over space debris.
Hegseth creates powerful new drone office, pulling authority from the military services
Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth consolidated nearly all Pentagon drone and autonomous systems programs under a new office, the Direct Reporting Portfolio Manager for Unmanned Systems, on June 29. This office will oversee the development, procurement, and deployment of unmanned systems across various domains, with a significant budget increase of $53.6 billion allocated for these initiatives. The office will also centralize congressional engagement and has the authority to make key decisions regarding drone acquisition.
Lithuania moves to end nuclear weapon ban as ‘situation getting worse’
Lithuania's parliamentary parties have agreed to lift a constitutional ban on nuclear weapons and foreign military bases, reflecting worsening geopolitical circumstances. President Gitanas Nauseda stated that the constitution was written under different geopolitical conditions. This decision follows a similar move by NATO ally Finland and aims to enhance deterrence against potential threats from Russia. The amendments could be adopted by the end of this year.
The Royal Navy Just Hit Zero — Not a Single British Attack Submarine Is at Sea While Russian Subs Prowl the North Atlantic
The Royal Navy currently has no attack submarines deployed at sea, creating a significant operational gap in Britain's maritime strategy. This situation is exacerbated by increased Russian submarine activity in the North Atlantic. The Royal Navy's Astute-class submarines, while highly capable, are facing prolonged maintenance issues, limiting their availability. This decline in operational readiness poses risks to NATO's undersea surveillance capabilities and British national security.
Pentagon continues to ‘struggle’ with key weapons development timelines: GAO
Pentagon leaders are struggling to meet weapons delivery timelines, with the average time frame now exceeding 12 years. Significant delays have been reported in various defense programs, including the Air Force's T-7 and the Army's Long Range Hypersonic Weapon. The Government Accountability Office has highlighted the need for mature technologies in defense acquisitions to mitigate these delays.
After walking on the Moon, the Apollo 11 crew spent three weeks locked in quarantine — in case they’d brought back lunar germs — and greeted the world through glass.
Apollo 11 astronauts Neil A. Armstrong, Edwin E. Aldrin, and Michael Collins were quarantined for 21 days at the Lunar Receiving Laboratory starting July 27, 1969, due to concerns about potential lunar microorganisms. Along with the astronauts, 24 NASA employees who had contact with them were also observed medically. The quarantine was questioned by some researchers regarding its necessity, but it was a precautionary measure to ensure public health.
Australia announces defense industry policy and acquisitions reforms
Australia announced the Defence Industry Development Strategy (DIDS) in Melbourne, aiming to enhance its sovereign defense industrial base. The strategy includes an $80 million AUD investment to support small- and medium-sized defense businesses and reforms to a $3 billion fund for the defense industry. Additionally, the Anduril Ghost Shark will be prioritized for export, and a new Defence Delivery Group will be established to advise on defense projects.
Gen. Christopher Donahue relinquishes command of US Army Europe and Africa
Gen. Christopher Donahue relinquished command of U.S. Army Europe and Africa in Wiesbaden, Germany, after 18 months in the role. Maj. Gen. Christopher Norrie will act as commander until a successor is confirmed. Donahue expressed pride in his team and the accomplishments during his tenure. His departure is part of significant leadership changes at the Pentagon under Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.
Does Space Force have enough lawyers for tomorrow’s wars? Senators want to know
Senators are evaluating the U.S. Space Force's legal readiness to support future space operations, emphasizing the need for a dedicated legal organization. The Space Force aims to expand its personnel from 6,500 to 20,000 and enhance its capabilities in response to rising threats from China and Russia. A report on current and projected space law requirements is expected by Dec. 1.
Defense startups raid auto and fracking sectors for parts to speed weapons output
Defense tech startups are repurposing automotive chips and fracking pipes to enhance weapons production for the Pentagon. Companies like Castelion and Anduril are innovating with new technologies, including 3D printing, to meet the growing demand for missiles and rocket motors. The U.S. has utilized over 50,000 projectiles since the Russian invasion of Ukraine, prompting a $53 billion investment to boost production capabilities.
Indonesia's Two 2026 Scorpene Submarines Cannot Patrol the Archipelago Alone
Indonesia is developing two Scorpene submarines, with the first expected to be operational by 2032 and the second by 2033. The Indonesian Navy faces challenges in maintaining a continuous patrol presence due to limited numbers and operational requirements. The submarines will incorporate advanced technologies, but Indonesia's goal of a 12-submarine fleet highlights the need for further development and support to ensure effective maritime security.
Marcus ChenThu Jul 02 2026Loading...
Air Power Just Failed Its Biggest Test: What the Iran War Proved About Winning Wars
The report concludes that air power, exemplified by Operation Epic Fury in the Iran War, cannot achieve military victory without ground forces. It emphasizes that while air power is crucial, it does not equate to control of territory, which is necessary for regime change. The analysis draws on historical military strategy to support these claims.
Russia bombards Kyiv in one of war’s biggest strikes, at least 21 people killed
Russia launched a massive airstrike on Kyiv in the early hours of Thursday, killing at least 21 people and wounding many others. The attack involved 74 missiles and 496 drones, causing significant damage to around 130 buildings. President Zelenskiy attributed part of the destruction to the failure of allies to provide timely air defenses. A day of mourning was declared in Kyiv as rescue operations continued.
INKAS plans three new sites to boost North American output
INKAS plans to open three new production facilities across Canada and the United States, significantly increasing its manufacturing capacity in North America. This expansion aims to more than double the company's production space in the region.
American Rheinmetall shows new look at XM30 Bradley replacement
American Rheinmetall showcased the XM30 infantry fighting vehicle concept, emphasizing its advanced design and technological features. The vehicle aims to replace the M2 Bradley and includes a 50 mm turret and a two-soldier crew concept. Integrated AI and automation are designed to assist the crew in combat situations. The program reflects the U.S. Army's focus on improving mobility, lethality, and digital capabilities in modern warfare.
The Era of Strong U.S. Support for Taiwan Is Ending — and Not Just Because of Trump
U.S. support for Taiwan is weakening, with indications that the Trump Administration may prioritize economic agreements with China over military backing. The U.S. has pressured Taiwan to relocate semiconductor production and has indicated a reduced commitment to arms sales. Public support for military intervention in Taiwan remains low, complicating future U.S. responses to potential Chinese aggression.
US Navy seeks to boost production of new anti-radar missile
The U.S. Navy is seeking to increase production of next-generation anti-radar missiles, requesting up to 600 Advanced Emission Suppression Missiles annually. This initiative aims to enhance capabilities against enemy air defenses, focusing on advanced targeting and integration with existing platforms. The Navy's current anti-radar missile, the AGM-88, has a range of up to 80 miles, while procurement for the AGM-88G is paused until Fiscal Year 2028.
Kratos wins $36 million deal for new air defense missile system
Kratos Defense & Security Solutions received a $36 million contract for a new air defense missile system on July 2, 2023, at its San Diego facility. This contract is part of the U.S. effort to enhance missile and air defense production capacity amid rising demand for such systems due to modern threats. The specifics of the missile system and its intended targets remain undisclosed.
China Commissioned This 12,000-Ton Destroyer in March. By June It Was Off Japan’s Coast and Tokyo Was Scrambling to Shadow It.
The Chinese Type 055 destroyer Dongguan was deployed in the Pacific, transiting the Miyako Strait on June 30th, 2023. In response, the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Forces dispatched a frigate and a P3 Orion aircraft to shadow the warship. This deployment marks a significant operational move by the People's Liberation Army Navy shortly after the destroyer's commissioning.
