Analysis & Reports

France has entered exclusive negotiations with MBDA and Safran for a long-range artillery system to replace its aging LRU fleet by 2027. The Thundart artillery system, capable of reaching 150 km and extendable beyond 1,000 km, is under consideration. Deliveries could start in 2029, sidelining Lockheed Martin's HIMARS proposal due to longer delivery times.

France has initiated exclusive negotiations with Safran and MBDA for the supply of domestically produced rocket artillery and munitions. This decision follows the need to replace aging M270-based LRU launchers, with the first systems expected to be delivered by 2029. The French Army emphasizes the importance of these capabilities for future military readiness, aiming for a war-ready division by 2027 and army corps by 2030.

Israel maintains its military presence in security zones in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza as of June 15, 2026, following the Iran deal. The Israeli Defense Minister emphasized the need for ongoing military operations to ensure border security. Hezbollah has refrained from operations but is monitoring Israel's actions, while the humanitarian situation in Lebanon remains critical with thousands of casualties reported since March.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

Airmen from the Rhode Island National Guard and soldiers from the Michigan National Guard conducted a HIMARS Rapid Infiltration training exercise at Fort Irwin, California, from June 6-13. They flew the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System over 2,000 miles to test rapid deployment capabilities and simulate an artillery strike. This exercise is part of the new Minuteman Rotation program, which integrates National Guard troops with active-duty personnel.

Palladyne AI Corp. and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) announced a strategic partnership on June 8, 2026, to manufacture and market loitering munition systems, including HARPY and HAROP, to the U.S. Department of War. This partnership aims to enhance U.S. military capabilities by adapting proven systems for domestic production and operational requirements. IAI will provide engineering support while Palladyne AI will handle manufacturing and marketing.

China's DF-27 missile system poses a direct strike threat to northern Australia, with capabilities to reach significant distances, impacting military operations and logistics. The threat is expected to mature by 2026, necessitating a reassessment of Australia's defense strategy. The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force is expanding its missile capabilities, which could complicate U.S. operations in the region.

Marcus ChenMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

MAC JEE and SOFRAME officially presented the DORCUS vehicle system at Eurosatory 2026. This new armored fire-support solution is designed for modern warfare, featuring a retractable multiple rocket launcher and high firepower capacity. The DORCUS system supports various military units and showcases the collaboration between French and Brazilian defense industries.

Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced that Israel will remain indefinitely in its controlled security buffer zones in Southern Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. He stated that Israel will not withdraw from these areas despite external pressures and will continue operations to remove residents and dismantle infrastructure used by armed personnel. Katz also warned Iran against any attacks related to the situation in Lebanon, promising a strong response from Israel.

Shield AI is showcasing the X-BAT autonomous fighter jet at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris from June 15-19, 2026. The X-BAT is billed as the world's first AI-piloted VTOL fighter jet, capable of vertical takeoff and landing with combat performance at jet speeds. It features a range exceeding 3,700 km and is designed for various military roles, including air-to-air combat and electronic warfare.

On the 15th, a church at the Kyiv Cave Monastery caught fire due to an attack by Russian forces. Ukrainian President Zelensky stated that the damage was caused by missiles from a U.S.-made Patriot air defense system. The incident raises concerns about the effectiveness of the air defense system, potentially linked to expired missiles supplied by Western nations.

Thales launched the LGR275 Proxy rocket in Herstal, Belgium, equipped with a new LiDAR sensor to target enemy drones. The company aims to produce 20,000 units annually by 2028, responding to urgent needs in ongoing conflicts. This development reflects an acceleration in production capacity due to the situation in the Middle East.

Russia launched a coordinated attack on Ukraine overnight, deploying 681 weapons, including 70 missiles and 611 drones, with Kyiv suffering the most damage. The assault resulted in significant casualties and destruction of cultural sites, prompting calls for increased air defense support from G7 leaders. Despite Ukraine's interception of many aerial threats, the attack exposed vulnerabilities in its defense capabilities and highlighted the urgency for Western military support.

Alexandra ReevesMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

CIO unveiled the VBM 155 self-propelled howitzer at Eurosatory 2026, showcasing its advanced artillery capabilities and automated turret. The howitzer, built on a 10×10 chassis, can achieve speeds over 100 km/h and has a maximum rate of fire of 10 rounds per minute. It is designed for enhanced mobility and stability, allowing for rapid deployment and redeployment. The system is aimed at both domestic and export markets, with integration expected in early Q4 2026.

On June 15, 2026, Russian forces launched an attack wave comprising 70 missiles and 611 drones against Kyiv and other Ukrainian cities, resulting in at least nine deaths. President Zelensky urged G7 nations for enhanced air defense support, highlighting Europe's vulnerabilities in missile defense capabilities. The attack is viewed as a significant test of European defense policy amid ongoing discussions about military support for Ukraine.

Dr. Klaus WeberMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

Jihadist groups JNIM and ISSP have significantly increased their operational presence in northern Benin, with attacks rising by 80% between 2024 and 2025, resulting in over 1,000 deaths. The region is becoming a strategic area for these groups, who are establishing bases and routes for operations. The Sahel Alliance Battalion, consisting of 5,000 troops, is deemed inadequate to counter this escalating threat effectively.

Marie DuboisMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

MBDA showcases its defense solutions at Eurosatory 2026, addressing European rearmament needs amid ongoing conflicts. The company presents new weapon systems, including the NCM/LCM MK2 and THUNDART, emphasizing rapid industrial scale-up and operational readiness. With a €5 billion investment plan from 2026 to 2030, MBDA aims to enhance battlefield superiority for European armed forces and their allies.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted airstrikes and artillery attacks in southern Lebanon on June 15, injuring individuals in Nabatieh. A drone strike targeted a vehicle, while artillery fire hit two towns in the region. Additionally, an explosive device was dropped in Kharis village, and demolition operations were carried out in Shiyam town.

On June 15, 2026, Russian Armed Forces launched a massive airstrike involving 70 missiles and 611 drones targeting Ukraine, with significant portions intercepted. New satellite data reveals at least five drone launch sites near the Belarus border, enhancing Russia's operational capabilities. The Shatalovo airfield, located 46 kilometers from Belarus, is a key site with multiple launchers, indicating a strategic shift in Russian military operations.

Dmitri VolkovMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Navy Aviation conducted several hours of uninterrupted anti-submarine training in the South China Sea on June 14, utilizing 30 KQ-200 aircraft. The training focused on integrating various systems for effective submarine detection and tracking, highlighting the PLA's efforts to enhance its anti-submarine capabilities in response to external submarine activities. The KQ-200, while not as advanced as the P-8A, plays a crucial role in China's maritime defense strategy.

Li MinghuiMon Jun 15 2026Loading...

On June 15, the Naval Training Ship Qijiang and Amphibious Landing Ship Kunlunshan departed from a military port in Qingdao, carrying over 400 personnel for a comprehensive training and visiting mission at sea. The mission includes various training modules and political education, aiming to enhance the naval skills and professional capabilities of the participants.