Analysis & Reports

U.S. Air Force B-52 Stratofortresses are conducting airstrikes against IRGC command posts and mobile launchers in Iran as part of the 2026 Iran Air War. The B-52J variant, equipped with advanced radar and engines, continues to play a crucial role in U.S. military operations, demonstrating its effectiveness in delivering substantial payloads over extended distances. This operational use underscores the aircraft's enduring relevance in modern warfare.

Ukraine received 80 M1A1 Abrams tanks by early 2026, including 49 donated by Australia. These tanks have been modified with anti-drone armor and reactive armor to enhance their combat effectiveness against Russian forces. Despite initial losses due to tactical issues, Ukrainian forces have adapted their use of the tanks for better performance in combat operations.

The UK Royal Navy announced the purchase of 20 K3 Scout Medium unmanned surface vessels from Kraken Technology Group for operations and training. This acquisition is part of Project Beehive, aimed at enhancing naval capabilities and providing immediate operational flexibility. The K3 USVs can operate independently or alongside crewed units and are expected to be operational in the coming months.

Norwegian Armed Forces tested FPV drones during NATO's Cold Response 2026 exercise in Setermoen, Norway, from March 9 to 19, 2026. The Skydio X10D drone, used by both Norwegian and Ukrainian forces, was deployed alongside a self-built FPV drone for attack simulations. U.S. Marines also participated, testing an experimental FPV drone. The exercises focused on adapting drone technology for Arctic warfare, addressing challenges like battery performance in cold conditions.

Norwegian Armed Forces tested FPV drones during NATO's Cold Response 2026 exercise in Setermoen, Norway, from March 9 to 19, 2026. The Skydio X10D drone was utilized for reconnaissance, while a self-built FPV drone was used for attack simulations. U.S. Marines also participated, testing an experimental drone designed to enhance piloting skills and counter-drone tactics. Challenges included battery performance in cold conditions.

Ukraine is providing international partners access to its combat data for training AI models, marking a global first. This initiative aims to enhance the development of autonomous systems and improve decision-making in combat. The program is supported by a dedicated AI platform within the Ministry of Defense, ensuring data security while allowing partners to utilize real battlefield data.

Ukraine is providing international partners access to its combat data for training AI models, marking a global first. This initiative, announced by the Ministry of Defense, aims to enhance the development of autonomous systems in warfare. The program allows partners to utilize real battlefield data while maintaining security protocols. Ukraine's datasets are considered among the most operationally rich in the world, supporting faster decision-making in combat.

Russia's S-400 air defense system is actively deployed in Ukraine, providing protection against missile and drone attacks. The system can track 300 targets and engage 36 simultaneously, enhancing Russia's air defense capabilities. It has been integrated into a mosaic defense strategy, allowing for independent decision-making by operators. The S-400 has also been exported to China and other nations, further extending its influence.

Russia exported its first batch of Su-57 Felon stealth fighters to Algeria, confirmed by a February 2026 video near Oum El Bouaghi Air Base. The Su-57 has seen limited combat in Ukraine, primarily serving as a stand-off platform. Despite production challenges, the export marks a significant development for Russia's military aviation amid ongoing sanctions.

The Saab 29 Tunnan, known as the Flying Barrel, was effectively utilized by Swedish UN forces during the Congo Crisis from 1960 to 1963, performing ground-attack and reconnaissance missions. It was armed with 20mm cannons and demonstrated high maneuverability and effectiveness in combat, with no recorded losses. A total of 660 units were produced, establishing Sweden's reputation for advanced fighter aircraft.

NATO is transforming its defense strategy, focusing on integrated air and missile defense plans in response to hybrid threats, particularly from Russia. Operation Eastern Sentry was activated due to Russian drone incursions into Polish airspace, showcasing NATO's shift in military priorities. By 2035, Europe aims to take a leading role in its conventional defense, supported by increased defense spending and strategic initiatives from the EU. Discussions are ongoing about establishing a permanent NATO mission in Greenland.

Dr. Klaus WeberFri Mar 13 2026Loading...

The United Arab Emirates is facing a disproportionate number of Iranian attacks, with 1,422 UAVs detected and 1,342 intercepted as of March 8, 2023. The UAE has shifted its information sharing regarding interception rates, now only reporting engaged munitions. The attacks have resulted in six fatalities, and the UAE's air defense systems, including THAAD and Patriot, are under significant strain due to the high volume of threats.

The Russian Navy's Amur-class submarines, including the Amur-1650 and Amur-950 variants, are advanced diesel-electric vessels designed for stealth and combat effectiveness. Equipped with Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) and advanced sonar systems, they can perform anti-submarine warfare and reconnaissance missions. These submarines are capable of carrying cruise missiles and heavyweight torpedoes, enhancing their role in coastal defense and sea denial operations.

KNDS CBRN signed three orders for new CBRN detection and decontamination equipment from the French Defense Procurement Agency in Brussels on March 13, 2026. This includes the new TGM48 gas mask and two decontamination systems from the ESSENTIAL DECON range, which will enhance the capabilities of the French armed forces. The first deliveries are expected by early 2028.

KNDS CBRN signed three orders for new CBRN equipment from the French Defense Procurement Agency in Brussels on March 13, 2026. The orders include the TGM48 gas mask and two decontamination systems from the ESSENTIAL DECON range, with 21 L-01 systems set to be deployed by the French Army by 2028.

The U.S. Air Force awarded two contracts to Boeing for the development of the E-7 Wedgetail aircraft, totaling over $5 billion. This decision follows congressional directives to continue the program after previous attempts to cancel it. The contracts will support the transition to the Engineering and Manufacturing Development phase, allowing for system design maturation and testing. The E-7 is also being utilized in current operations, including deployments to assist in missile detection.

The Russian Navy's Oscar II-class submarines are designed to target and destroy aircraft carriers, equipped with advanced missile systems including 24 P-700 Granit missiles. These submarines utilize nuclear propulsion for long-range operations and feature a double-hull design for enhanced survivability. Despite lacking stealth compared to newer classes, their firepower and capabilities make them a formidable threat to NATO naval forces.

The U.S. Army concluded the xTech|Edge Strike: Ground competition in Vilseck, Germany, on March 13, where three companies tested unmanned ground systems based on Polaris vehicles. The event evaluated technologies for military logistics, reconnaissance, and casualty evacuation, showcasing the integration of autonomy into tactical mobility platforms. The MRZR D4, RANGER XD 1500, and RZR XP 1000 were among the vehicles tested.

Heavy armored vehicle losses have underscored the necessity for active protection systems (APS) among NATO and other military forces. This need arises from the ongoing conflict dynamics, emphasizing the importance of enhancing vehicle survivability in combat situations.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced that Iran's defense industrial base is functionally defeated, with a 90% reduction in missile attacks and a 95% reduction in drone strikes. The U.S. Armed Forces are actively targeting Iranian military production facilities. Additionally, four aircrew members were confirmed dead following a KC-135 tanker crash in Iraq.