Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy is conducting a review of its aircraft carrier force, focusing on the Ford-class carriers and their operational effectiveness. This review, influenced by budgetary pressures and technological challenges, may lead to modifications or cancellations of future carriers. The Navy emphasizes that aircraft carriers remain vital for power projection and deterrence in military strategy.

Lockheed Martin announced that Peru intends to purchase 12 F-16 Block 70 aircraft to modernize its fighter fleet. However, internal disputes among Peruvian officials have delayed the signing of the deal, with the interim President stating he cannot commit to such expenditures before elections. The US Embassy confirmed a technical signing was scheduled but postponed, and a first payment of $462 million has been announced.

Peru announced the purchase of 12 F-16 Block 70 aircraft from Lockheed Martin to modernize its fighter fleet and enhance national defense capabilities. This acquisition, made public on April 23, 2026, reinforces the strategic partnership between Peru and the United States. The F-16 Block 70 is noted for its advanced technology and operational performance, contributing to Peru's air sovereignty and regional security.

Peru signed a technical agreement for the procurement of F-16 Block 70 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin on April 20, 2026, despite a political crisis triggered by President Boluarte's refusal to take responsibility for the deal. The agreement, which includes advanced capabilities and a training program, led to the simultaneous resignation of Peru's Minister of Defense and Minister of Foreign Affairs. The U.S. emphasized the urgency of the deal amid rising costs and competition from other countries.

Peru's President Pedro Castillo announced a delay in the procurement of F-16 fighter jets from the United States, prompting the resignations of Defense Minister Carlos Diaz and Foreign Minister Hugo de Zela. The President stated that the decision was made to ensure responsible use of public funds and would be left to the incoming government. The U.S. Ambassador warned of potential consequences if Peru does not negotiate sincerely regarding U.S. interests.

Brazil and Germany are restructuring their Marine Corps to enhance operational effectiveness in response to evolving geopolitical threats. The German Naval Infantry is modernizing its capabilities, focusing on hybrid threats and operational readiness, while Brazil emphasizes riverine and littoral operations. Both nations are integrating advanced technologies, including AI and drones, to improve their military capabilities and align with NATO standards.

Lockheed Martin upgraded the F-22 Raptor, enhancing its combat range by 850 nautical miles with new stealth-compatible fuel tanks. The U.S. Air Force continues to deploy the F-22 in operations across the Indo-Pacific, including recent missions in Estonia and against threats in Iran. The addition of infrared search-and-track sensors improves the aircraft's survivability and situational awareness, ensuring its role in maintaining air superiority.

Swedish and German submarines repeatedly penetrated U.S. Navy carrier defenses during exercises, achieving simulated kills. The USS Abraham Lincoln and USS Gerald R. Ford are currently deployed in operations against Iran, highlighting the ongoing relevance of aircraft carriers despite emerging threats. The Gotland incident in 2005 underscored vulnerabilities in U.S. anti-submarine warfare capabilities, prompting a reevaluation of tactics.

EDGE established a partnership with the Brazilian Army to evaluate next-generation weaponry, including the CARACAL Assault Rifle CAR 816 and CARACAL Sniper Rifle CSR50, in realistic operational environments. This initiative, announced on 16 April 2026, aims to enhance the Brazilian Army's combat effectiveness and operational readiness through rigorous testing and knowledge exchange.

EDGE and Indra signed a Memorandum of Understanding in São Paulo on 16 April 2026 to develop next-generation radar systems in Brazil. This partnership aims to create a radar production ecosystem, enhancing local defense capabilities and creating skilled jobs. The agreement is part of a growing strategic collaboration between the two companies, which has included joint ventures in radar development and electronic warfare since 2023.

EDGE Group is accelerating the development and production of MANSUP and MANSUP-ER anti-ship missiles in partnership with the Brazilian Navy. This initiative aims to enhance Brazil's indigenous naval weapons capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. The missiles are designed for maritime strike missions and feature advanced guidance systems for improved targeting in electronic warfare environments.

The Kunshan ship conducts mine-hunting operations underwater, utilizing a specialized mine clearance device to destroy bottom mines. This device is designed to minimize risks during the operation and is equipped with a bomb for effective destruction of the mines. The operation highlights the ship's capabilities in handling complex underwater threats.

Hanwha Aerospace signed a memorandum of understanding with Indra Group in Santiago, Chile, on April 8, 2026, to jointly offer armoured vehicle solutions for the Chilean Army. The agreement includes Hanwha supplying Tigon armoured vehicle platforms and Indra providing Mission System Equipment. This partnership aims to enhance defense capabilities in Latin America, starting with Chile.

Theseus successfully completed a 5-hour, 22-minute test flight of its Micro Visual Positioning System over central Florida in March, covering 564 kilometers. The system demonstrated a median horizontal position error of 51.95 meters and operated without mid-flight reinitializations. This test highlights advancements in GPS-denied navigation for drones, addressing vulnerabilities in current military operations.

A C-130 Hercules transport aircraft crashed in Colombia on March 23, 2023, resulting in at least 66 fatalities among the 128 people on board. This incident is the third significant crash of the C-130 model in five months, following similar accidents in Bolivia and Georgia. The aircraft, known for its durability, has been in service for over 60 years.

U.S. Marines from the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted extensive combined arms training exercises at Camp Santiago, Puerto Rico, throughout March 2026. The training integrated light armored vehicles, drones, and mortar systems, allowing the unit to rehearse modern expeditionary warfare tactics. The exercises included the use of the Neros Archer drone for attack training and the MV-22B Osprey for logistics support, reflecting the MEU's operational capabilities in austere environments.

The U.S. Armed Forces have deployed thousands of soldiers to the Middle East since February 2026, testing new offensive weapons such as LUCAS drones and ATACMS missiles. The Pentagon is preparing for a potential ground invasion of Iran, indicating a shift in military strategy. Recent operations also include the use of a disruptor weapon system in Venezuela, showcasing the U.S.'s intent to redefine warfare with advanced technologies.

The Israel Defense Forces detected a missile launched from Yemen towards Israel on the 4th. Air defense alarms were activated in Central Israel, including Tel Aviv, in response to the threat.

The U.S. Air Force retired the B-58 Hustler bomber on January 31, 1970, after a decade of service due to mechanical issues and the advancement of aerial defenses. Despite its impressive capabilities, including a maximum speed of Mach 2.0 and 19 speed records, the aircraft was deemed too costly to operate compared to the B-52. Currently, several B-58 specimens are preserved in museums, including one at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio.

Blighter is expanding its presence in the Latin American defense market by showcasing its ESA radar systems at FIDAE 2026 in Santiago, Chile, from April 7 to 11. The company aims to enhance military and security capabilities with its advanced radar technology, which is already deployed in over 40 countries. Blighter's systems are designed for persistent monitoring and counter-drone operations, utilizing low-power micro-Doppler technology.