Analysis & Reports

The Naval Surface Warfare Center Crane Division introduced the Drone Killer Cartridge (DKC) designed to effectively target small quadcopter drones. In a demonstration at Camp Atterbury, Indiana, the DKC achieved a 92% success rate. The U.S. Navy is seeking manufacturing partners for this ammunition, which is expected to meet the needs of military operations and other applications. The DKC is part of a broader strategy to enhance capabilities against small drones in various operational contexts.

The U.S. Army's Bradley Fighting Vehicle has been effectively utilized by Ukrainian forces against Russian troops in 2024. Over 300 Bradleys have been supplied to Ukraine, demonstrating significant firepower and survivability on the battlefield. Despite suffering losses, the Bradley continues to play a crucial role in ground assaults, showcasing its long-standing combat effectiveness since its introduction in 1981.

Safran Electronics & Defense announced that the AASM LIR is nearing qualification following three live firing tests conducted at the Biscarosse facility in March 2023. The Thundart/FLP-T long-range missile is also approaching its first live test, with developments in dual seeker technology enhancing targeting capabilities. The company has significantly increased its production capacity for the AASM, anticipating future demand.

The SR-71 Blackbird employed advanced electronic warfare tactics, including a deception jammer, to evade approximately 4,000 enemy missiles during its service life. Operating at speeds exceeding MACH 3 and altitudes of 85,000 feet, it successfully avoided detection and interception by surface-to-air missiles. The aircraft's unique design and capabilities allowed it to gather critical intelligence without being shot down, marking it as a significant asset during the Cold War and Vietnam War periods.

France deployed Tiger attack helicopters in the Middle East to counter drone threats, as stated by French Army Chief of Staff General Pierre Schill. This deployment reflects a strategic shift in military operations to adapt existing combat assets for countering unmanned aerial systems. The French Army is prioritizing logistics and firepower improvements in response to evolving threats.

The U.S. Military conducted research from 2008 to 2012, spending $22 million on exploring extra dimensions and warp drive technologies. This research aimed to address the dark matter problem and its potential military applications. The Pentagon's All-domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO) continues to investigate unidentified anomalous phenomena, reflecting ongoing military interest in advanced technologies.

Israel Weapon Industries delivered a new batch of X95 Micro-TAVOR rifles to the Israel Defense Forces to enhance immediate force readiness. This delivery supports infantry equipment requirements under ongoing operational conditions, focusing on maintaining combat effectiveness for military units.

The U.S. Air Force is experiencing a critical shortage of airborne battle management (ABM) aircraft, with only 16 E-3 Sentries available for missions. This shortage impacts the U.S.'s ability to respond to drone and missile threats, particularly in the Middle East and off the coasts of Venezuela. The aging fleet and the cancellation of future ABM systems exacerbate the situation, risking under-resourcing of essential air operations.

The European Defence Agency (EDA) is coordinating a new Joint Ammunition Qualification (JAQ) program with €50 million in funding to streamline the testing and approval of 155 mm artillery ammunition across EU member states. This initiative aims to harmonize national procedures, enhancing interoperability and procurement efficiency for European armed forces. The focus on 155 mm rounds underscores their critical role in NATO operations.

Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted drone attacks on Russian facilities in Leningrad Oblast, including Primorsk and Ust-Luga, causing significant damage in March 2023. The use of approximately 10,000 drones per month has become crucial for Ukraine's military operations, leading to substantial Russian casualties and operational challenges. The effectiveness of Ukraine's drone warfare has shifted the dynamics of the conflict, particularly in the Donbas region.

The Eurofighter Typhoon, a fourth-generation multirole aircraft, is recognized for its air superiority capabilities and is operated by multiple countries including the UK and Germany. It features advanced weaponry and is expected to remain operational until at least 2040, with ongoing upgrades to enhance its performance. The Typhoon is designed to work alongside stealth fighters in modern combat scenarios, emphasizing its role in air policing and missile truck operations.

Airbus completed the first demonstration flight of its Bird of Prey counter-drone interceptor in northern Germany, utilizing a Mark I missile. The drone autonomously detected and engaged a target, showcasing its capability to neutralize multiple medium-sized kamikaze drones. The system aims to address the challenges of defending against low-cost aerial threats and is expected to be operational by early 2027.

The Japanese destroyer JS Chokai has been modified to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles, significantly enhancing Japan's military capabilities. This development allows Japan to strike targets over 1,000 kilometers away, marking a shift in its defense strategy. The destroyer is set to undergo live-fire training in August 2026 before returning to its home port in Sasebo, Kyushu Island. Japan's acquisition of 400 Tomahawk missiles is part of a broader effort to bolster its defense posture against potential threats.

The Japanese destroyer JS Chokai has been modified to launch Tomahawk cruise missiles, enhancing Japan's military capabilities. This development allows the destroyer to strike targets beyond 1,000 kilometers, marking a significant shift in Japan's defense strategy. Japan plans to acquire 400 Tomahawk missiles to equip its Aegis destroyers, with live-fire training scheduled for August 2026. The move is part of Japan's broader strategy to implement stand-off capabilities and bolster deterrence measures against potential threats.

A U.S. Air Force F-15EX Eagle II conducted a training mission over southeastern U.S. on March 23, 2026, as part of ongoing evaluations led by the 96th Test Wing and 53rd Wing. The mission focuses on assessing the aircraft's survivability, radar performance, and combat capabilities, aiming to replace older F-15C/D fighters. The F-15EX incorporates advanced systems for modern contested environments and is designed to carry a large weapons load.

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor is undergoing significant upgrades, including the addition of stealthy 600-gallon fuel tanks and passive detection capabilities. These enhancements aim to improve the aircraft's operational range and mission profiles, allowing it to remain effective in high-threat environments. The upgrades were showcased during a NATO Air Shielding media day at Łask Air Base, Poland, on October 12, 2022.

The 74th Group Army conducted a live grenade training exercise in China, where troops threw grenades at designated targets. Drones were also deployed to deliver grenades accurately to target areas, enhancing the combat readiness of the personnel involved.

China has achieved the largest navy in the world, complicating U.S. military operations in the Western Pacific. The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) is enhancing its anti-access and area-denial capabilities, which may hinder U.S. forces' effectiveness during crises. The U.S. Navy is adapting its strategies to maintain operational effectiveness against these challenges.

Diehl Defence successfully fired the new 122 mm training rocket from the MARS 3 rocket artillery launcher system at the Altengrabow military training area in February 2026. This event marks the beginning of artillery rocket production in Germany and demonstrates the rocket's compatibility with the German Armed Forces' future systems. The training rocket features a unique spotting charge warhead that allows for visible impact without fire hazards.

General Chereshnya and Wilcox Industries established a joint venture to produce FPV and interceptor drones in the United States, targeting the defense market and Pentagon orders. The project aims to comply with U.S. legal and security standards, including Blue UAS certification, and is expected to conclude its first phase by early March with prototype orders valued at around $150 million.