Analysis & Reports

Ukraine is developing FP-7 and FP-9 ballistic missiles to enhance its long-range strike capabilities against Russia, with operational service expected by Fall 2023. President Zelenskyy indicated that these missiles could reach Moscow, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. The development is reliant on Western components and funding, while Russia is ramping up its own missile production.

U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers conducted airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure from RAF Fairford, targeting ballistic missile production facilities and command centers. The operation, part of Operation Epic Fury, resulted in significant damage to Iranian capabilities and the elimination of senior Iranian leadership. The B-1B Lancer, capable of carrying a massive payload, played a crucial role in these strikes.

The U.S. Air Force deployed 15 B-1B Lancer bombers to RAF Fairford to conduct airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure from February to March 2026. These strikes targeted ballistic missile production facilities and command centers, resulting in the deaths of key Iranian leadership figures. The B-1B, capable of carrying a payload of 125,000 pounds, played a crucial role in the operation.

CSG Group and Zakłady Metalowe Dezamet S.A. signed an agreement on 24 July 2026 for over EUR 100 million to supply components for 155 mm artillery ammunition production in Poland. This agreement reflects a long-term partnership aimed at enhancing the defense capabilities of NATO and EU countries, with a focus on supplying the Polish Armed Forces.

Patria and KNDS signed a framework agreement for the assembly and integration of Patria 6×6 armored personnel carriers in Germany as part of the multinational CAVS program. Deliveries to the Bundeswehr are set to ramp up in early 2027, with local production increasing thereafter. The program aims to enhance European defense manufacturing capacity and provide modern armored vehicles to participating nations.

ePropelled announced a significant expansion of its manufacturing operations in Laconia, New Hampshire, on August 11, 2026, supported by $60 million in U.S. government funding. The expansion will increase production capacity for electric propulsion systems by over four times, catering to both government and commercial drone programs. This initiative aims to bolster the domestic supply chain for critical drone technologies and create skilled jobs in the region.

ePropelled announced a significant expansion of its manufacturing operations in Laconia, New Hampshire, on August 11, 2026, supported by $60 million in U.S. government funding. The expansion will increase its production capacity for electric propulsion systems by over four times, addressing the growing demand from government and commercial sectors. The new facility will feature advanced automated production lines and is expected to create skilled jobs while enhancing the domestic supply chain for critical drone technologies.

Marlink signed a definitive agreement to acquire Global RadioData Communications Ltd (GRC) on August 11, 2026, to enhance its capabilities in government and defense communications. The acquisition, expected to close later in August, will add £35 million in revenue and 30 specialists to Marlink's operations. GRC specializes in satellite, RF, cloud, and IP networking solutions, supporting mission-critical operations for defense customers.

Marlink signed a definitive agreement to acquire Global RadioData Communications Ltd (GRC) in August 2026, enhancing its capabilities in government and defense communications. The acquisition, valued at approximately £35 million, adds 30 specialists to Marlink's workforce and aims to strengthen its position in the European defense sector. GRC will continue to operate under its established brand, ensuring continuity of service for existing customers.

Ireland excluded the Israeli-developed FalconEye vision system from its new Dassault Falcon 6X government aircraft due to a policy prohibiting new contracts with Israeli defense companies. This decision, made in August 2024, may limit the aircraft's operational capabilities in poor weather and low visibility conditions. Ireland has not yet identified a replacement for the FalconEye system, which is known for enhancing situational awareness during flight.

China is providing extensive military and economic support to Russia's war efforts in Ukraine, including critical components and intelligence. This partnership has significantly increased Russia's dependency on China, allowing Beijing to enhance its military capabilities, particularly in nuclear technology. The ongoing cooperation is reshaping the military landscape in the region, with implications for global security.

The Russian Navy has installed anti-drone nets over multiple submarines at the Rybachiy base in Kamchatka and Novorossiysk in Krasnodar Krai as a defensive measure against Ukrainian drone attacks. This installation has expanded from two submarines in May to over half a dozen by June 2026, reflecting Moscow's concerns about vulnerabilities in its naval fleet. The UK MOD Intelligence reports confirm these protective measures are in response to Ukraine's increasing long-range strike capabilities.

Lockheed Martin and Rheinmetall signed a memorandum to produce ATACMS missiles in Unterlüß, Germany, with an expected output of 600 to 800 units annually starting in 2028. This production aims to meet European and Ukrainian demand as the US faces depleted missile stocks due to the ongoing conflict with Iran. The agreement underscores the strategic implications for European military autonomy, as production remains under US oversight and licensing.

Dr. Klaus WeberTue Aug 11 2026Loading...

Russia is restructuring its military production for the winter campaign of 2026/2027, significantly increasing the production of ballistic and hypersonic missiles, as well as drones. In July, the Russian Armed Forces launched 198 missiles, the highest number in a year, while also producing 1400 reactive strike drones. Most new missiles are being deployed directly into combat rather than stored, indicating a shift in military strategy. The production of Iskanders and RM-48U missiles has also surged, with plans to increase the share of reactive drones in the strike fleet.

Dmitri VolkovTue Aug 11 2026Loading...

Investment in defense technology, particularly in drones and AI, is surging, driven by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Ukrainian defense startups are maturing rapidly, attracting international investors despite bureaucratic challenges. A shift in NATO budgets is noted, favoring drone and electronic warfare over traditional heavy armor. Experts emphasize the importance of dual-use technologies, particularly counter-drone systems, as critical for both military and civilian applications.

Cambridge Aerospace announced the closure of a $300 million Series C funding round on 10 August 2026, raising its valuation to $3.4 billion. The funds will enhance manufacturing capabilities and support existing contracts, including those with the UK Ministry of Defence for low-cost interceptors. The company, which employs over 250 staff, aims to launch its next product, Starhammer, in 2027, further solidifying its role in air defense technology.

Poland is building 45 heavy recovery vehicles for Sweden's military, designed by Szczęśniak Pojazdy Specjalne. The vehicles, based on a Scania R520 XT chassis, will enhance Sweden's military recovery capabilities. Deliveries are set to occur through the end of 2029, marking a significant collaboration between Polish manufacturers and Sweden's defense procurement agency.

General Charles Costanza was relieved of command of the U.S. Army V Corps in August 2026, following the earlier resignation of General Christopher Donahue from USAREUR-AF. Brigadier General John B. Mountford is currently acting commander, while Major General Thomas M. Feltey is expected to take over. These leadership changes, occurring within six weeks, raise concerns about the stability and continuity of U.S. military command in Europe, impacting NATO's eastern flank.

S.WTue Aug 11 2026Loading...

Zvook tested a mobile version of its passive acoustic drone detection system mounted on a vehicle during NATO’s BATT26 exercise in Latvia. This innovative approach, developed in collaboration with the Latvian National Armed Forces, aims to enhance drone detection capabilities by utilizing sound signatures instead of radar. The experiment demonstrated promising results, indicating potential for future mobile deployments in military operations.

Minister Radu-Dinel Miruță visited the Automecanica Mediaș facility in Romania to review the production of COBRA II 4×4 tactical armored vehicles. Otokar confirmed the delivery of 290 vehicles to the Romanian Armed Forces, marking a significant milestone in their defense cooperation. The facility operates under NATO standards, and Otokar is committed to strengthening Romania's defense industry through technology transfer and local production.