Analysis & Reports

Smart Shooter received its first order from the U.S. Joint Interagency Task Force 401 (JIATF-401) for SMASH 2000LE fire control systems on March 25, 2026. The contract, valued at approximately $2.4 million, includes systems, spare parts, and training, with options for additional purchases. This order enhances U.S. military capabilities against small unmanned aerial systems.

On 25 March, the Brazilian Air Force unveiled the first Gripen E fighter aircraft produced in Brazil at Embraer’s facility in Gavião Peixoto. The event was attended by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Swedish officials, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between Brazil and Sweden. The Gripen E is intended for various military roles and is part of a contract for 36 aircraft.

In February 2026, the U.S. deployed at least 12 F-22 Raptors and dozens of F-35 Lightning IIs to the Middle East for operations over Iran. The F-35s conducted strike missions, while the F-22s secured airspace to ensure operational dominance. This deployment is part of a broader strategy to leverage advanced airpower capabilities in the region.

Lockheed Martin announced on March 25, 2026, a framework agreement with the Department of War to quadruple the production of Precision Strike Missiles in Dallas. This initiative aims to enhance the U.S. military's capabilities and readiness, following the system's operational debut in combat during Operation Epic Fury. The agreement is part of a broader effort to strengthen the Arsenal of Freedom and support national defense objectives.

U.S. and Israeli Air Forces launched over 900 airstrikes against Iranian targets in Tehran at the end of February 2023, successfully eliminating over 40 members of Iran's senior leadership. The operation, named Epic Fury, rapidly dismantled Iran's military capabilities, including the destruction of significant naval assets and missile infrastructure, while maintaining air superiority with minimal losses. This aggressive campaign was executed in response to intelligence about a gathering of senior Iranian leaders.

AeroVironment has released the LOCUST X3, a third-generation high-energy laser weapon system designed to counter various uncrewed aerial and surface threats.

The U.S. Army launched a marketplace for unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in Huntsville, Alabama, allowing warfighters and vendors to easily purchase drones. The marketplace currently features 30 systems, primarily Group 1 and 2 drones, with plans to add Group 3 drones by summer 2027. Vendors can submit products for approval, and soldier feedback will inform industry demand for various types of drones.

The first domestically assembled supersonic fighter jet, the F-39E 'Gripen', was unveiled in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo, on March 25, 2023. The Brazilian Air Force has begun operational deployment of the aircraft, which features advanced capabilities including air-to-air refueling and multi-role operations. It is set to replace older models such as the F-5 and AMX.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched the 81st wave of Operation 'Real Commitment-4' on the evening of the 25th, targeting over 70 locations in Israel, including Haifa, Dimona, and Tel Aviv, using precision-guided missiles such as Imad, Qiam, Khoramshahr-4, and Qader.

Japan proposed to develop its own variant of the F-22 Raptor in the 2000s to address rising Chinese threats. However, the Obey Amendment, enacted in 1998, prohibits the export of the F-22, limiting Japan's options. Consequently, Japan's focus shifted to the F-35, which is available for export to allies.

In 2009, the U.S. Air Force permanently closed the F-22 Raptor production line after manufacturing only 195 units, shifting focus to the F-35 Lightning II. This decision was influenced by changing military needs and congressional pressure, deeming the F-22 unnecessary for counterinsurgency operations. The closure dismantled the production ecosystem, complicating any future attempts to restart F-22 manufacturing.

The Israeli Air Force conducted airstrikes on March 24 against multiple military industrial targets in Isfahan, Iran, including an underwater research facility. This facility is reportedly involved in the design of submarines and the production of unmanned surface vessels. The strikes are intended to significantly restrict Iran's capabilities in developing new submarines and upgrading its existing fleet.

Aeon is testing the Zeus anti-tank missile in Texas, offering a cost-effective alternative to the Javelin missile. The Zeus weighs 20 pounds and is designed for infantry use, providing significant cost savings while maintaining combat effectiveness. The U.S. military aims to enhance its anti-tank capabilities with this new weapon system.

Denmark awarded a revised contract to KNDS for the supply of tank tracks for its Leopard 2 fleet of vehicles.

On February 5, 1958, a U.S. Air Force B-47 Stratojet collided with an F-86 Sabre during a training mission near Tybee Island, Georgia. The damaged bomber jettisoned a Mark 15 thermonuclear bomb into the Atlantic Ocean to ensure a safe landing. Despite extensive search efforts, the bomb has never been recovered, raising ongoing concerns about potential environmental hazards.

The Pentagon signed agreements to accelerate the production of Precision Strike Missiles and other defense components in Washington. Lockheed Martin will invest in advanced tooling and facility modernization to enhance production capabilities. The Army plans to produce 45 PrSMs this fiscal year, while BAE Systems and Honeywell Aerospace also announced significant investments to support missile production and critical components.

The U.S. Navy is prepared to deploy Triton Autonomous Underwater and Surface Vehicles (AUSVs) for mine counter-measures in the Strait of Hormuz. Triton, equipped with advanced detection and neutralization capabilities, has been evaluated since 2023 and is ready for immediate action. This deployment aims to enhance maritime security and ensure safe passage in a region threatened by Iranian activities.

The Pentagon has reached an agreement with BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin to quadruple the production of THAAD infrared seekers and interceptors. This deal will increase THAAD interceptor production from 96 to 400 annually. The contracts, lasting seven years, aim to enhance U.S. defense capabilities against threats, particularly from Iran's unmanned drones. BAE's work will be conducted in Nashua, New Hampshire, and Endicott, New York.

The Pentagon has reached an agreement with BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin to quadruple the production of THAAD infrared seekers and interceptors. This deal will increase THAAD interceptor production from 96 to 400 annually. BAE's work on the THAAD seeker will be conducted in Nashua, New Hampshire, and Endicott, New York, as part of a seven-year contract. The agreements reflect the U.S. military's strategy to enhance its air defense capabilities against threats, particularly from Iran.

China demonstrated its anti-drone laser weapon capabilities, specifically the '光箭-21A' and '光箭-11E' systems, designed to counter low-altitude drones. These systems can engage targets from several kilometers away and utilize advanced targeting and data-sharing technologies. The integration of these weapons with radar and reconnaissance systems enhances their operational effectiveness.