Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Department of Defense is addressing the industrial-base problem by focusing on the time required for supplier qualification and production of military parts. The Pentagon holds significant appropriations but faces delays in getting qualified parts to warfighters. Recommendations include allowing suppliers to retain qualifications across programs, funding qualification separately, and increasing multiyear procurement to support small suppliers.

Danish F-35s landed at Kangerlussuaq Airport in Greenland on September 16, 2023, marking their first arrival on the island as part of a multinational training mission. This operation involved U.S. F-16s and Canadian CF-18s, with logistical support from NATO assets. Concurrently, a new security agreement regarding Greenland is scheduled for signing on September 22, 2023, amid rising tensions with Russia, which recently fired flares at a Danish helicopter.

The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $1.2 billion contract for the production of Precision Strike Missiles (PrSM), which are designed to replace the Army Tactical Missile System. This contract marks a significant step in enhancing the Army's long-range precision strike capabilities. PrSM Increment 2 features advanced targeting technology and is set to expand production capacity significantly.

NATO and Finland announced a $20 million investment in a TNT production facility in Pori on September 22, 2026. This facility is intended to support Finnish and NATO military needs while aiding Ukraine. The investment reflects Europe's challenges in ammunition production and the strategic importance of chemical precursors. The project is viewed as a critical step in enhancing European defense capabilities amid rising tensions with Russia.

Dr. Klaus WeberTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

Advanced Navigation signed an $18.5 million deal to supply inertial navigation systems for Kongsberg's PROTECTOR counter-drone platforms in Poland. This contract, part of the SAN CUAS program, involves 18 counter-drone batteries and aims to enhance tracking capabilities without GPS. The systems will help maintain operational effectiveness in electronically contested environments.

Russia is expanding its drone production capabilities by planning to manufacture 28,000 new 'Geran' drones annually by 2026 at Alabuga in Tatarstan. The construction of underground facilities aims to protect these production sites from Ukrainian strikes. Additionally, China is supplying materials necessary for this production, indicating a reliance on external sources for key components. This strategy reflects Russia's intent to maintain a sustained military campaign despite ongoing Ukrainian attacks.

Dmitri VolkovTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

Fabryka Broni 'Łucznik' Radom is set to quadruple its small arms production to 80,000 firearms by 2025, primarily for the Polish armed forces and Ukraine. The Polish government has invested 108 million PLN in expanding the factory's capacity. Production includes the MSBS Grot assault rifle and new handguns, with a focus on quality control throughout the manufacturing process.

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers awarded a $13.6 million contract to K & K Industries for the construction of a weapons storage facility at Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri. This facility will support the incoming B-21 Raider stealth bomber and is expected to be completed by March 31, 2028. The project is part of a larger $900 million investment in military construction at the base, which will enhance its operational capabilities.

GM Defense won a $697.7 million modification to its Infantry Squad Vehicle contract with the U.S. Army on September 21, 2023, increasing the total contract value to $915.6 million. The modification focuses on engineering changes to the vehicle’s five-seat cargo variant, with an estimated completion date of June 25, 2028. The Infantry Squad Vehicle, which entered service in 2020, is designed for rapid troop movement across rough terrain and is based on the Chevrolet Colorado ZR2.

USS Abraham Lincoln conducted jet engine tests and launched weather balloons from its fantail in March 2026 while deployed in the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations. The ship's activities included handling mooring lines and deploying floating targets for training. These operations are part of ongoing efforts to maintain maritime security and stability in the Middle East.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is refueling Saudi jets in the Red Sea to bolster their defensive operations against Houthi attacks as of September 21, 2026. This time-limited mission aims to enhance Saudi air defense capabilities amid a renewed Houthi campaign threatening military sites and energy infrastructure. The operation utilizes an Airbus A330 MRTT Voyager to extend the operational range of Saudi fighters.

Alexandra ReevesTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

The Eastern Theater Command Air Force conducted joint training exercises with reserve units at an unspecified airbase, focusing on aircraft maintenance and operational readiness. Personnel engaged in simulated combat scenarios, enhancing their tactical skills. The training validated the effectiveness of the mixed active-reserve operational model.

Polska Grupa Zbrojeniowa (PGZ) is increasing its defense production capacity in Poland, aiming to produce 150,000 155 mm artillery shells annually by late 2027. The group has signed contracts worth 15 billion euros for various military vehicles and is actively seeking international partnerships for ammunition production. Poland's defense spending is nearing 5% of its GDP, with significant funding from the SAFE program.

Alkeon has entered a strategic collaboration with Leonardo to enhance Denmark's defense industrial capabilities, focusing on local production of the 76/62 mm Super Rapid Gun Mount. This partnership aims to strengthen the defense industrial base in Denmark and is expected to create new skilled jobs and increase participation in defense programs. The agreement reflects a commitment to building long-term defense production capacity in the country.

Rheinmetall Electronics GmbH completed the Factory Acceptance Test for the Heavy Infantry Weapon Carrier training equipment at its Bremen site in June 2026. This milestone allows for crew training to commence alongside vehicle deliveries, with five AGSW systems expected to be handed over by mid-2027. The training solution includes a realistic gunnery and combat simulator, facilitating joint training for vehicle crews and dismounted infantry.

The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin $200 million in September 2023 to upgrade M270 Multiple Launch Rocket System launchers to the M270A2 standard. This modernization includes new engines and armored cabs, allowing the launchers to fire precision munitions. The Army aims to maintain the M270 fleet in service through 2050, with ongoing contracts for upgrades since 2019.

Russia is transitioning to underground production of Geran drones at the Alabuga facility, aiming to increase output by 28,000 units by 2029. This expansion is a response to Ukraine's capability to strike Russian targets and involves significant enhancements in drone technology and production methods. The initiative reflects a strategic shift in Russia's military capabilities, focusing on sustaining drone warfare over time.

Dmitri VolkovTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

Fering secured its first export orders for the Pioneer hybrid off-road vehicle from Canada and an undisclosed Middle Eastern country. The company unveiled the Pioneer X at a recent show, which maintains the same mobility as the original but with increased payload capacity. Fering is also competing for a contract with the British Army's Light Mobility Vehicle program and is planning a new production facility.

On September 22, 2026, Saudi Arabia faced renewed Houthi attacks while receiving British military support, including aerial refueling for its F-15SA fighters. Reports indicated Houthi attempts to strike the Saudi capital and a Saudi airstrike in Al-Mokha that killed six Houthi fighters. The situation reflects a shift from limited border threats to a broader aerial and missile conflict, highlighting the need for enhanced reconnaissance and operational independence for Saudi forces.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

Fabryka Broni 'Łucznik' Radom showcased the MSBS Grot A3 assault rifle at the MSPO 2026 exhibition in Kielce, Poland, marking the start of its production. A contract for 46,000 units was signed with the Polish Army in June 2026. The A3 version incorporates significant upgrades based on user feedback, including improved ergonomics and functionality. The Polish Territorial Defence Forces participated in the evaluation process, emphasizing the importance of equipping reserve forces.