Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Army has paused the Milestone B approval for the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle program, indicating a reassessment of its options. Army officials are exploring alternatives to improve procurement speed and flexibility, as evidenced by a recent Request for Information (RFI) aimed at gathering innovative solutions. This decision reflects ongoing pressures on the program and the Army's commitment to delivering effective combat vehicles.

Fire Point conducted test launches of the FP-7 ballistic missile in Ukraine on February 27. This marks the first public demonstration of the missile's flight testing, designed for operational strikes at medium distances. The FP-7 has a range of up to 200 kilometers and a maximum speed of 1,500 meters per second, with a warhead mass of 150 kilograms.

The U.S. Department of State approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Jordan involving Ku band multi-function radio frequency system (KuMRFS) radars valued at $280 million.

Russia revealed the production process of the Khishchnik 4×4 armored vehicles at the Remdiesel facility in Naberezhnye Chelny during a visit by elite military units and Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov. The vehicles are designed with advanced radio monitoring systems to enhance survivability against drone threats, and testing preparations for the new model are currently underway.

European defense spending surged to $563 billion in 2025, driven by Germany's 18% increase and significant investments from Nordic and Baltic states. NATO is realigning its strategic focus, with U.S. troop levels in Europe mandated to remain above 76,000. The alliance's operational activities continue, including the launch of Arctic Sentry to address security concerns.

Alexandra ReevesFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

The U.S. military used a laser to shoot down a Customs and Border Protection drone near Fort Hancock, Texas, on Thursday. This incident led to the FAA closing airspace in the area, marking the second use of a laser system in two weeks. Lawmakers expressed concern over the lack of coordination between military and civilian agencies regarding drone threats at the U.S.-Mexico border.

Singapore's defense minister announced the acquisition of three Gulfstream G550 maritime surveillance aircraft to enhance its maritime capabilities. This decision follows the earlier selection of the Boeing P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The G550-MSA will feature advanced surveillance technology and is part of a broader strategy to strengthen maritime security in the region.

Canada is considering a shift from purchasing the F-35 Lightning II to the Saab JAS 39 Gripen, jeopardizing NORAD and NATO interoperability. This decision is influenced by political tensions with the U.S. and the Canadian government's desire to maintain a strong defense posture. Canadian military leadership advocates for the F-35 due to its advanced capabilities and integration with U.S. forces.

Diehl Defence showcased the Garmr mobile counter-drone system at Enforce Tac 2026 in Nurnberg. The system features advanced sensors, including the Echodyne EchoShield radar and a Dillon M134-D Minigun, designed to counter UAV threats. It includes the Cicada interceptor drone, capable of neutralizing enemy drones. The Garmr represents a significant advancement in counter-drone technology, leveraging AI for enhanced detection and engagement capabilities.

DRASS delivered two Swimmer Delivery Vehicles to the Ministry of Defence of the Republic of Indonesia on 27 February 2026. This delivery marks a significant enhancement of the Indonesian Navy's underwater capabilities, featuring advanced autonomous systems and comprehensive training for operators. The successful execution of this delivery involved collaboration with partners CSG and Republik Palindo, emphasizing DRASS's commitment to modern naval solutions.

Boeing's F-47 next-generation fighter is on track for its first flight in 2028, with the U.S. Air Force planning to purchase at least 185 jets. The aircraft will feature a combat radius exceeding 1,000 nautical miles and speeds above Mach 2, with the first airframe already in production. This development is part of the Air Force's Next Generation Air Dominance program, which has received significant funding from Congress.

The keel-laying ceremony for the first U212NFS submarine for the Italian Navy took place at the Muggiano shipyard on February 2, 2026. This event marks the beginning of a program to construct four submarines, with delivery expected by 2029. The U212NFS class introduces advanced technologies aimed at enhancing stealth and operational capabilities.

Lockheed Martin is upgrading the F-22 Raptor with stealthy external fuel tanks and infrared search-and-track pods to enhance its capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The Hawaii Air National Guard’s 199th Fighter Squadron conducted interoperability training with the B-2 Spirit bomber. These upgrades aim to improve the F-22's range and sensor fusion to compete with China's advanced stealth fighters. The U.S. Air Force is focusing on enhancing the F-22's performance in response to evolving threats.

EDGE Group signed a Defence Industry Cooperation Framework with the Republic of Korea’s DAPA in Abu Dhabi on 27 February 2026. This agreement marks a significant milestone in defense cooperation, valued at approximately $35 billion, focusing on integrated air defense systems, advanced aircraft capabilities, and maritime power. The signing took place during a high-level visit from South Korea, highlighting the strong bilateral defense partnership.

Ukrainian Armed Forces have received over 2,200 Senator armored vehicles, which are being used for troop movement and logistics protection in Ukraine. The procurement of these vehicles is influenced by their battlefield performance and operational flexibility. The Senator's design accommodates lower-quality fuel, enhancing its utility in wartime conditions, while its rapid production supports ongoing military needs.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) aircraft carrier conducted sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean on October 29, 2019, while facing significant operational challenges. The carrier's advanced systems, including EMALS and AAG, have encountered reliability issues, contributing to increased costs and delays. Despite these hurdles, the Ford is intended to serve as a cornerstone of U.S. Navy strategy for the next 50 years.

SpaceX enforced stricter verification for Starlink terminals, disrupting Russian artillery operations in February 2026. This loss of connectivity led to confusion among Russian units and allowed Ukrainian forces to exploit communication gaps in Zaporizhzhia. Concurrently, Russian forces launched a significant strike operation involving 420 drones and 39 missiles targeting Ukrainian infrastructure. The situation reflects ongoing adaptations by both sides in the conflict.

Dmitri VolkovFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

European nations are developing critical defense enablers to deter Russia without U.S. support, focusing on air and missile defense, long-range strike capabilities, and command and control systems. By the early 2030s, Europe aims to enhance its military capabilities, with significant investments in air defense and long-range strike systems. Analysts emphasize the urgency of these developments in light of the evolving security landscape.

Europe is developing critical defense enablers to deter or defeat Russia without U.S. support, focusing on air and missile defense, long-range strike capabilities, and command and control systems. Analysts estimate that Europe will achieve sufficient long-range strike capabilities within two years, while full strategic integrated air and missile defense may take longer. European nations have significantly increased their investment in air defense systems since 2022, totaling $18 billion.

The United States has deployed six E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft to Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia and F-22 Raptors to Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, preparing for potential conflict in the Persian Gulf. Concurrently, Iran has conducted military exercises demonstrating its missile capabilities and positioned ballistic missile launchers along its coastline. Diplomatic tensions are rising within the Gulf Cooperation Council as the UAE opposes military operations against Iran from its territory.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Feb 27 2026Loading...