Analysis & Reports

The Attack-21 stealth drone successfully took off and landed on the Sichuan ship on November 6, marking a significant achievement for the Chinese Armed Forces. This operation is expected to enhance China's naval capabilities in distant sea operations, reflecting advancements in military technology. The Chinese government reiterates its commitment to a defensive military policy and peaceful development.

The Finnish Defence Forces demonstrated autonomous systems developed by Patria at an event organized by the Finnish Navy in Finland. The demonstration showcased the capabilities of these systems operating at sea and in the air.

The Russian Army has been adapting its military strategies based on experiences from the Ukraine conflict since February 2022, focusing on enhancing drone and electronic warfare capabilities. Despite significant equipment losses, the military has improved its operational effectiveness in certain areas. NATO is also adjusting its strategies to counter a potentially more capable Russian military.

Pakistan successfully tested its first indigenous air-to-air missile, 'Victory', on November 3, 2023. The missile is equipped with an advanced terminal guidance system, allowing it to engage enemy targets from greater distances. This test marks a significant advancement in Pakistan's aerospace and defense capabilities, further enhancing the operational flexibility of its Air Force.

Shield AI announced its acquisition of Echodyne for $5.3 billion to enhance its drone-warfare capabilities. The acquisition includes Echodyne's advanced radar systems, which are crucial for counter-drone technology. This move aligns with the growing demand for such technologies, particularly highlighted by recent conflicts. The acquisition is expected to support military forces over the next 36 months.

The Royal Navy successfully launched four Nyan One-Way Effector drones from HMS Queen Elizabeth in the North Atlantic on 5 November 2026. This operation, part of Exercise Neptune Reach B, demonstrated the drones' ability to integrate with naval operations, achieving successful strikes on designated targets. The event marks a significant step in the Royal Navy's development of uncrewed systems for future carrier strike operations.

Vector unveiled the Warfighter’s Stack, a new one-way attack drone system, in Utah on November 2. The system integrates the Mace quadcopter, a High-Voltage Electronic Safe and Arm Device, and a Hilt hand controller. Vector received an order for 5,000 drones after ranking fourth in the Defense Department’s Drone Dominance Program.

General Dynamics Mission Systems is modernizing military communications security by implementing high-speed encryption and adaptable security technology to protect military networks against evolving cyber threats.

ST Engineering presented its Multi-Role Vessel (MRV) at Euronaval 2026 in Paris, designed to serve as a mothership for unmanned systems. The MRV, measuring 150 meters and displacing 8,000 tonnes, integrates advanced sensors and weaponry to enhance naval operational capabilities. This vessel aims to improve surveillance and operational reach through Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T), addressing modern naval challenges.

Ukraine is negotiating a new contract with the US for SpaceX's Starshield by mid-2027, addressing previous operational issues. The Ukrainian government emphasizes the need for continued military support, including F-16 fighter jets and Patriot interceptors, as they rely on Starshield for drone operations against Russian threats. Recent political developments in the US may influence future military aid to Ukraine.

The USS Enterprise, the first nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, was towed from Newport News, Virginia to Mobile, Alabama for dismantling on November 2, 2023. The dismantling process is expected to take until 2030 due to the complexities of safely handling nuclear materials and the associated costs, which have risen significantly over the years. The U.S. Navy has contracted Polar Star Maritime to oversee the dismantling, which includes the removal of nuclear fuel and low-level radioactive waste.

Saildrone signed an agreement with Norwegian shipbuilder Umoe Mandal to produce unmanned surface vessels, with parts built in Norway. This collaboration aims to enhance maritime domain awareness in critical areas such as the Baltic and North Seas. Umoe Mandal is establishing a new manufacturing site to meet anticipated demand for these vessels, which will be operated under frameworks like NORDEFCO for maritime intelligence.

Norway has received its first M3 amphibious bridge and ferry system from General Dynamics European Land Systems (GDELS). This acquisition is part of Norway's efforts to enhance its military capabilities with new equipment.

Fairbanks Morse Defense is negotiating with the US Navy to repair three Seawolf-class submarines as part of an expansion of its submarine maintenance capabilities. This follows a $100 million contract for overhauls on Los Angeles- and Ohio-class submarines, with work on the Seawolf-class expected to begin after the late 2020s. The company aims to address ongoing maintenance delays and enhance operational readiness.

Shield AI is acquiring Echodyne, a counter-drone radar provider, for $5.3 billion, with the deal expected to close in early 2027. This acquisition will enhance Shield's capabilities in the counter-drone industry and diversify its revenue streams. Echodyne's radar systems are utilized by defense and government clients in more than 40 countries, and it will operate as a unit within Shield's mission systems.

The Eurofighter consortium is pursuing opportunities to sell over 200 additional multirole fighter jets, with potential orders from Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Austria. Portugal is considering replacing its aging F-16 fleet with Eurofighter, while Poland seeks to acquire 32 more jets. Bangladesh is also in discussions for a Eurofighter deal but is negotiating with China for J-10CE jets. Current production includes 60 aircraft, with plans for a ramp-up to 30 per year by 2028.

General Dynamics European Land Systems delivered the first M3 amphibious bridge and ferry system to Norway. This delivery enhances the Norwegian Defence Materiel's capabilities in amphibious operations. The M3 system is a significant addition to Norway's military equipment.

The U.S. Army and German Army collaborated on the MBT-70 tank from 1963 to 1971, but the project failed due to design disagreements and escalating costs. The program's budget increased from $80 million to over $303 million, leading both nations to independently develop the M1 Abrams and Leopard II tanks. The failure highlighted the need for standardization within NATO.

The Finnish Defence Forces demonstrated autonomous systems developed by Patria at an event in Upinniemi, Finland, on 5 November. The event announced the establishment of an Unmanned Systems Company within the Coastal Brigade. A successful joint operation of unmanned systems operating at sea and in the air was showcased, highlighting the integration of these systems into naval defense.

Thailand's Ministry of Defence is deploying the Arbel Anti-Drone System, a computerized rifle trigger designed to shoot down small drones. This system, developed by Israel Weapon Industries, aims to enhance soldiers' marksmanship and has been adopted by approximately 25 other countries. The Arbel system integrates a computer into the trigger mechanism of standard AR-15 rifles, allowing for improved targeting and firing rates against drone threats.