Analysis & Reports

Iran launched hundreds of ballistic and cruise missiles and drones over the last ten days, prompting the US to strike over 6,000 targets in Iran. The Pentagon reported a significant reduction in Iranian missile fire due to these strikes, but concerns about munitions sustainability and the need for congressional action on funding have arisen. The US military is ramping up production of various missile systems to meet future demands, particularly in light of potential conflicts with China.

Iran launched a large-scale missile and drone assault on Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait, since late February 2026. Gulf states demonstrated significant defensive capabilities, intercepting hundreds of missiles and drones. The conflict has revealed a profound military transformation in these nations, enabling them to sustain complex defense operations without immediate external intervention.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Mar 13 2026Loading...

The Daqing ship of the Chinese Navy's 48th Escort Task Force conducted live-fire exercises in the Gulf of Aden, responding to simulated pirate boat attacks. The crew executed rapid maneuvers and utilized both main and secondary guns to successfully engage targets. This operation aimed to enhance the ship's escort capabilities and readiness for real-world threats.

Leonardo S.p.A. has transformed its operations from 2022 to 2025, increasing its workforce and expanding its product portfolio across various domains. The company reported a 38% rise in orders and a significant increase in market capitalization, driven by strategic partnerships and a focus on cybersecurity and digitalization. The launch of the Michelangelo Dome in November 2025 marks a key development in their defense capabilities.

China is accelerating the development of its H-20 stealth bomber in response to the ongoing air campaign against Iran, which has highlighted the effectiveness of stealth aircraft. The H-20 is expected to enhance China's long-range strike capabilities significantly, with a projected range exceeding 8,500 kilometers. This development is crucial as China seeks to modernize its military capabilities and address vulnerabilities in its current bomber fleet, primarily composed of the older H-6K model.

NATO is revising its integrated air defense plans for the first time in decades, with completion expected by summer 2026. This strategic shift follows Russian drone incursions into Polish airspace and includes the establishment of Operation Eastern Sentry. Military exercises involving multiple nations were conducted in Romania and the Black Sea in March 2026, highlighting NATO's response to ongoing hybrid warfare threats from Russia.

Dr. Klaus WeberFri Mar 13 2026Loading...

Airbus is preparing two Valkyries in Manching, Germany, for their first flight with a European mission system, scheduled for 2026. The Valkyries will be equipped with the MARS mission system, which includes AI capabilities for mission coordination. This initiative aims to provide the German Air Force with a combat-ready uncrewed aircraft system by 2029, addressing current geopolitical needs.

Airbus is preparing to conduct flight tests of two Valkyrie combat drones in Manching, Germany, as part of a program to provide the German Air Force with operational capabilities by 2029. The drones will utilize the MARS mission system developed by Airbus, enabling autonomous operations and coordination with manned aircraft. The first flights are expected later this year, with the aim of delivering a combat-ready system in the near future.

The U.S. Army conducted tests of a new 30 mm Aviation Proximity Explosive (APEX) round for AH-64 Apache helicopters at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona. The tests evaluated the round's effectiveness against unmanned aerial systems, with approximately 1,200 rounds fired. The APEX round is designed to detonate near targets, enhancing the Apache's counter-drone capabilities. This testing is part of the Army's broader effort to improve defenses against small drones.

NATO is revising its integrated air and missile defense plans due to hybrid warfare threats and political tensions with the U.S., with completion expected by summer 2026. Operation Eastern Sentry was initiated following Russian drone incursions into Polish airspace, demonstrating NATO's evolving operational capabilities. Concurrently, political relations between the U.S. and Europe are deteriorating, impacting the alliance's unity and strategic direction.

Alexandra ReevesFri Mar 13 2026Loading...

On March 13, NATO air defense assets intercepted a ballistic munition launched from Iran that entered Turkish airspace. The incident triggered warning sirens at Incirlik Air Base near Adana, Turkey. This interception marks the second such event in less than a week, as NATO continues to monitor missile activity linked to Iran. Diplomatic consultations are ongoing to address the situation.

The U.S. Missile Defense Agency awarded Raytheon a $267 million contract modification for the production of 23 additional SM-3 Block IB interceptors, increasing the total to 78. This modification restarts the production line and supports operational readiness for missile defense missions. The work will primarily take place in Tucson, Arizona, and Huntsville, Alabama, with the program expected to continue through May 2030.

The Polish Armed Forces have initiated a training cycle for operators of the AS-3 MEROPS drone interceptor system at military training areas in Lipa and Ustka. This program aims to prepare personnel for operational environments and includes both theoretical instruction and field exercises. Live-fire exercises are planned for May and June 2023 to confirm operator readiness and operational procedures.

On 9 September 2025, NATO combat aircraft shot down four of an estimated 23 Russian UAVs over Poland. This action marked NATO's first kinetic response to a Russian military threat. The operation involved multiple NATO forces, including the Royal Netherlands Air Force and Polish Air Force, and was part of a broader initiative to enhance air defenses against UAV incursions across Europe. The European Union's Drone Defence Initiative is set to further bolster these efforts.

A U.S. airstrike destroyed a Cobra V8 electronic warfare system at a missile site near Bandar Imam Khomeini in Khuzestan, Iran. This system, based on Russian technology, is designed to interfere with radar and surveillance systems. The strike indicates a significant loss for Iran's electronic warfare capabilities during ongoing military operations against Iranian targets.

U.S. Forces Korea is transferring six THAAD launchers, potentially carrying 48 interceptors, from Seongju to Uisung Base in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, for deployment to the Middle East. This move follows recent airstrikes by the U.S. and Israel against Iran, with the Pentagon reallocating resources to counter threats in the region. Despite opposition from South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol, the transfer is proceeding as part of U.S. military logistics.

The U.S. Air Force awarded Boeing a $2.34 billion contract modification to develop the E-7A Wedgetail radar aircraft, enhancing its airborne command and control capabilities. The contract includes work primarily in Seattle and additional locations in Oklahoma City, Huntsville, and Heath, with completion expected by August 2032. This program aims to modernize the Air Force's battle management platform.

Japan and the U.S. are set to enhance military cooperation through AI target selection systems and joint missile production, with a significant summit scheduled for March 19, 2026. Japan is deploying long-range missiles and has contracted for 400 Tomahawk missiles to bolster its defense capabilities. This cooperation aims to address regional threats and improve interoperability between the two nations' armed forces.

Tanaka TakashiFri Mar 13 2026Loading...

The U.S. Department of State approved a $930 million sale of 20 M142 HIMARS launchers and related equipment to Sweden. This package includes guided rocket munitions and tactical data systems, aimed at strengthening Sweden's defense capabilities as a NATO ally. Lockheed Martin will be the principal contractor for this sale, which supports U.S. foreign policy objectives.

Poland is constructing the 'Sank River' anti-drone system, which will include 18 mobile artillery units and is expected to be operational within 24 months. The project, costing around 3.5 billion euros, aims to enhance defense capabilities against drone threats, particularly following incidents involving drones from Russia. Political opposition has arisen regarding the funding sources for the system.