Analysis & Reports

China unveiled the 'White Emperor' fighter mock-up at the 2024 Zhuhai Air Show, claiming advanced capabilities including hypersonic speed and stealth features. However, analysts express skepticism about its feasibility, labeling it as propaganda. The mock-up has reportedly gone missing since its unveiling, raising further doubts about its operational status.

The U.S. Army issued a call to industry for solutions to enhance its electromagnetic spectrum operations, emphasizing the need for diverse ideas rather than specific requirements. This initiative aims to improve capabilities in jamming, signal identification, and emissions control, addressing current operational challenges. The Army seeks to leverage artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance decision-making speed in electronic warfare.

ImageSat International is advancing the KNIGHT satellite program, which features high-resolution imaging and SWIR capabilities for effective monitoring in low-visibility conditions. The satellite is set to enhance operational flexibility for defense and security users, with a planned launch in 2027. It integrates advanced AI for real-time data processing and autonomous operations, ensuring continuous performance improvements.

Airbus Defence and Space and Greenerwave announced the signing of two contracts on February 25, 2026, to enhance satellite communication capabilities for the French Armed Forces. This partnership aims to develop innovative solutions using Greenerwave's flat-panel antennas, reinforcing their commitment to French and European technological sovereignty. The agreements reflect a significant investment in military communication technology, supporting the operational needs of the armed forces.

INTRACOM DEFENSE deployed its next-generation Hybrid Electric Power Systems during NATO exercises LOYAL DOLOS 2025 in Assiros, Greece, and STEADFAST DART 2026 in Trauen, Germany, on February 25, 2026. The systems enhanced operational effectiveness by establishing modular tactical microgrids and improving mission autonomy and fuel efficiency. This deployment supports NATO’s Rapid Deployable Corps Greece and Italy, demonstrating the critical role of advanced energy solutions in modern military operations.

The naval landing ship brigade of the Eastern Theater Command conducted naval combat training exercises in the East China Sea, focusing on live-fire drills against simulated enemy threats. The exercises included responses to aerial and maritime attacks, successfully executing main gun firing and landing operations to enhance combat readiness.

The U.S. military has deployed two carrier strike groups and 108 air refueling tankers to the Persian Gulf and surrounding regions in February 2026, preparing for potential military operations against Iran. This includes various strike options targeting Iran's nuclear and missile infrastructure, with significant logistical support from aerial refueling capabilities. The deployment of E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft indicates expectations of contested airspace, while cyber assets are positioned to disrupt Iranian command and control.

Marcus ChenWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

NATO member states are set to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP by 2035, reflecting a strategic shift in response to security threats, particularly from Russia. Eastern European countries support this increase, while Spain has received an exemption. The report highlights Ukraine's rapid innovation in defense technology, particularly in drones, and Germany's proposal for a permanent NATO mission in Greenland to address Arctic tensions.

Dr. Klaus WeberWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

Bittium and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland are collaborating to develop new defense solutions that address the evolving needs of the modern battlefield. This partnership focuses on technologies such as radar, wearable sensors, and advanced communication systems, aiming to enhance performance capabilities for defense-sector customers. The collaboration leverages Bittium's expertise in scaling high-technology innovations and VTT's research capabilities to create field-ready products.

BAE Systems recently delivered its 100,000th APKWS laser-guidance kit, enhancing precision strike capabilities for U.S. armed forces and allies. The kit transforms unguided 2.75-inch rockets into precision-guided munitions and is deployable from multiple platforms. BAE Systems has been producing these kits for over 12 years, continuously upgrading technology to meet evolving mission needs.

Epirus and Digital Force Technologies (DFT) integrated their counter-UAS capabilities, combining the Leonidas high-power microwave platform with DFT's Seraphim software. This partnership aims to create a unified detect-to-defeat system for drone threats, demonstrated successfully in 2025 against a swarm of 49 drones. The technology focuses on non-kinetic engagement, using electromagnetic interference to neutralize drones while minimizing collateral damage.

U.S. defense firms face challenges as European countries shift towards greater technological independence and increased defense spending. European governments are increasingly interested in locally produced military technology, particularly in light of Ukraine's innovative military strategies. The reliance on U.S. cloud services remains high, but new EU regulations are pushing for more European alternatives. Public sentiment in Europe is shifting towards preferring European-made security technologies.

Rheinmetall showcased the RCWS 320C-UAS weapon station at the Enforce Tac exhibition in Nurnberg in 2026. This system is designed for short- and very short-range air defense, featuring advanced tracking capabilities and a high rate of fire. It can detect UAVs at ranges up to 5.3 km and is adaptable for various military platforms, including potential static defense roles.

Sweden's Defense Minister expressed openness to joining the joint development of next-generation fighter jets with Japan and the UK. A decision on whether to collaborate or develop independently will be made by March 2027. The project aims for deployment by 2035, although Sweden had previously withdrawn due to concerns about its air force's needs. Germany is also exploring options for collaboration in military aircraft development.

On February 18, 2026, the U.S. and Japan reaffirmed their military alliance during the Expanded Deterrence Dialogue in Washington D.C., committing to strengthen defense capabilities against regional threats. In response, China imposed export restrictions on 20 Japanese companies involved in military enhancement, aiming to curb Japan's rearmament efforts. This development highlights escalating military tensions in East Asia, with both nations adjusting their defense strategies.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force awarded a contract to Honeywell for the development of a new engine for its autonomous drone wingmen on February 23. The SkyShot 1600 engine will be adapted for use in the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which includes unmanned systems designed to operate alongside human pilots. This initiative reflects ongoing advancements in military drone technology.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a contract to Honeywell for the development of a small engine for its autonomous drone wingmen on February 23. The SkyShot 1600 engine will be adapted for use in the Air Force's Collaborative Combat Aircraft program, which includes unmanned systems designed to operate alongside human pilots in various mission sets. The U.S. Navy is also pursuing similar drone technology.

Air Force test pilots successfully used artificial intelligence aboard the experimental X-62A Vista jet to evade a simulated incoming missile during a test in Aurora, Colorado. The AI autonomously conducted evasive maneuvers, demonstrating potential future applications of AI in combat scenarios. The project, named 'Have Remy', aims to enhance pilot training and address public concerns regarding AI in military operations.

Lockheed Martin tested AI-enhanced targeting capabilities on the F-35 fighter jet at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. This marked the first instance of a tactical AI model independently suggesting combat targets to pilots. The company plans to continue developing AI-driven decision-making models to improve target identification speed for pilots, emphasizing the importance of reprogramming AI for future sorties.

Canada announced a new military assistance package to Ukraine on February 24, 2026, which includes over 400 armored vehicles and an extension of Operation UNIFIER until 2029. The Canadian government aims to strengthen Ukraine's defense capabilities in response to ongoing operational needs. Additionally, Canada approved $2 billion in military assistance for the fiscal year 2026-27 and introduced new sanctions against Russia.