Analysis & Reports

The Thompson submachine gun, developed by U.S. Army General John T. Thompson, was designed for close-quarters combat during World War I but became widely used in World War II. Over 1.75 million units were produced, and it gained notoriety during Prohibition as a weapon of choice for organized crime. The Thompson was valued for its high rate of fire and stopping power, though it was eventually replaced by lighter weapons post-war.

Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced that Israel will target all Iranian infrastructure, including energy facilities, if attacked by Iran. This statement follows warnings from Iran regarding potential responses to Israeli actions in southern Lebanon. Katz affirmed that Israel is fully prepared for any possible military engagement. Meanwhile, Iran's Army Commander declared that Iranian forces are on high alert to counter any threats.

Six Iranian military personnel were killed in U.S. airstrikes on September 1 in southern Iran. Among the deceased, three were pilots from the Iranian Air Force and Navy. The strikes targeted multiple locations, resulting in significant casualties for the Iranian military.

Blackhawk Company, 2nd Battalion, 7th Cavalry Regiment, conducted a 10-day training exercise at Hohenfels, Germany, starting April 22, 2026. During the exercise, they faced effective drone reconnaissance from the Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces' 412th Regiment. U.S. forces adapted their tactics to improve concealment and maneuverability, ultimately transitioning to offensive operations alongside Ukrainian troops. The exercise highlighted the importance of human adaptability in modern warfare and the effectiveness of armored vehicles in challenging terrains.

China is conducting military exercises in the Taklamakan Desert, targeting mockups of US Navy aircraft carriers and destroyers. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is testing advanced anti-access/area-denial systems, including the Dongfeng DF-21D and DF-26 missiles. These exercises reflect China's ongoing military expansion and modernization efforts aimed at countering US naval power.

China, Russia, and Mongolia conducted a joint military exercise named 'Border Cooperation-2026' in early September 2026, focusing on preventing reconnaissance and sabotage activities in border areas. This marks the second iteration of such exercises, highlighting the nations' commitment to enhancing border security cooperation and establishing a coordinated response mechanism.

Rostec will unveil a new weapon on the Su-57E export fighter at the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt from September 8 to 10, 2026. The Su-57E, a fifth-generation fighter, will perform aerobatic maneuvers and showcase weaponry that has not been publicly displayed before. Algeria is believed to be the first export customer for this aircraft.

The U.S. Navy is experiencing a significant shipbuilding crisis, with only one shipyard in Virginia capable of constructing and maintaining its aircraft carriers. As of July 14, 2024, only 4 out of 11 carriers are available for deployment due to long maintenance cycles. The Navy's logistical challenges are compounded by an inadequate workforce and supply chain issues, hindering its operational readiness in the Middle East.

On September 2, the Southern Theater Command of the People's Liberation Army conducted a combat readiness patrol over Scarborough Shoal, utilizing a JL-10 trainer aircraft armed with live PL-5 missiles to warn off intruding Philippine aircraft. This operation marked the first deployment of the JL-10 with live ammunition in such a context, demonstrating China's commitment to asserting its territorial claims in the South China Sea. The patrol involved coordination with a J-16 fighter and naval vessels, enhancing the operational capability in the region.

The Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation delivered the Khyzhak combat module for Ukrainian aviation, which is now operational against Russian targets. This module, equipped with a 7.62 mm PKT machine gun and an AI system for drone detection, enhances Ukraine's capabilities in countering Shahed-type drones. The Ministry of Defense has approved its use, marking a significant advancement in Ukraine's military technology.

Ukrainian forces have begun fitting their armored vehicles, including an M1 Abrams and a BMP-1TS, with 'hedgehog' anti-drone armor in Zaporizhzhia Oblast. This armor, designed to tangle drones and prevent detonation, was first used by Russian units in 2025. The adaptation reflects a broader trend of Ukrainian forces adopting Russian innovations in response to evolving battlefield conditions.

A Ukrainian ground robot, the Droid TW-12.7, survived five FPV drone strikes and successfully completed its mission to clear enemy personnel from a location. Operated remotely by the 74th Separate Reconnaissance Battalion, the robot sustained damage but remained functional until a sixth strike disabled it. The operation minimized direct contact with enemy forces and resulted in enemy losses.

AeroVironment was awarded a $464.8 million contract to supply the US Army with Locust X3 laser weapon systems as part of the Enduring-High Energy Laser program. The contract aims to produce and rapidly field up to 24 systems designed to neutralize Group 3 UAVs. The Locust X3 features advanced AI capabilities and is intended for deployment on various military platforms, enhancing the Army's defense against drone threats.

The Iranian military launched missile and drone strikes on U.S. military bases at Ahmed Jaber in Kuwait and Minhad in the United Arab Emirates on the morning of the 3rd. The attacks targeted communication systems and facilities, resulting in reported casualties. Iran has stated it will respond decisively to any U.S. aggression.

Hanwha Aerospace unveiled a new K9 howitzer operating concept that integrates fire-guidance drones during the K9 User Club event in Tartu, Estonia, from September 2 to 4, 2023. The event gathered over 200 military and industry representatives from seven nations, focusing on enhancing artillery capabilities. The new concept aims to improve target acquisition and reduce the need for forward observers.

TYTAN Technologies demonstrated a new rocket-boosted interceptor drone to the German Federal Cabinet at Schloss Neuhardenberg on August 25-26, 2023. The system is designed for enhanced range and speed against aerial threats, responding to evolving drone threats observed in Ukraine. TYTAN's existing interceptors, including the EOS and METIS, are already deployed in Ukraine and other regions.

LeVanta Tech demonstrated its HALIA unmanned system at ANTX Coastal Trident in Port Hueneme, California, showcasing its capabilities to operate in air and water. The drone can fly, land on the ocean, and remain in a low-power mode for extended periods. It features a unique design with ducted fans and a modular payload bay for various military applications, including ISR missions. The company has secured funding and contracts from the Air Force for further development.

Seasats announced that its Quickfish interceptor-class unmanned surface vessel has entered production and is now available at scale. The Quickfish demonstrated its capabilities during the Silent Swarm 2026 exercise at the Alpena Combat Readiness Training Center in Michigan, where it operated alongside four other autonomous vessels. The Quickfish can reach speeds over 40 knots and is designed for long-duration missions with a modular payload bay for various unmanned aircraft.

The U.S. Army awarded AV a $464.8 million contract to produce 26 high-energy laser weapons under the Enduring High Energy Laser program. These 30 kilowatt LOCUST X3 systems are intended to counter low-cost weaponized drones and will be delivered over the next five years. This marks a significant advancement in the Army's directed energy capabilities, following successful demonstrations of the technology.

The Ivan Papanin icebreaker patrol ship commenced its first Arctic voyage on September 1, 2023, as part of the Russian Northern Fleet. The naval group, which includes the Kondopoga landing ship, Pamir rescue tug, and Sergey Osipov tanker, will conduct exercises and ensure navigation safety along the Northern Sea Route. This operation highlights the ship's capabilities in harsh Arctic conditions and occurs amid rising tensions in the region.