Analysis & Reports

Boeing's YF-118G Bird of Prey, a one-off stealth technology demonstrator, tested radar-defeating designs and flew 38 sorties before its retirement in 1999. It was publicly revealed in 2002 and influenced future aircraft designs, including the X-32 and X-45. The prototype is now on display at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio.

China's J-15 fighter was photographed carrying two YJ-15 supersonic anti-ship missiles in 2025, demonstrating operational readiness. The YJ-15 can engage targets at ranges of 1,200 to 1,800 kilometers, significantly extending the threat range for surface ships. This development coincides with China's expansion of its carrier fleet, including the new Fujian carrier, which enhances its naval strike capabilities in the South China Sea and Western Pacific.

Marcus ChenSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

Lockheed Martin's SR-72 hypersonic aircraft, designed for reconnaissance at speeds up to Mach 7, has not yet made its planned first flight in 2025, raising concerns about its operational status. The project faces significant engineering challenges, particularly regarding heat management at hypersonic speeds. Despite these hurdles, the development continues, with indications of substantial investment and testing efforts.

The U.S. Navy is actively testing and planning to implement directed energy weapons, specifically lasers, for air defense on ships to counter missile and drone threats. Chief of Naval Operations Admiral Daryl Caudle emphasizes the need for these systems to enhance naval capabilities in future conflicts, particularly against adversaries like China. The HELIOS system is currently being tested aboard the USS Preble, with plans to integrate such technologies into the fleet.

Lockheed Martin successfully conducted a 112-kilometer flight test of the Extended-Range Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (ER GMLRS) at White Sands Missile Range, New Mexico. This test validated the integration of the M270A2 launcher with the Alternative Warhead configuration, confirming the system's performance and compatibility with existing artillery platforms. The ER GMLRS is designed to double the range of standard GMLRS rockets, enhancing strike capabilities for U.S. and allied forces.

The Ukrainian Alpha special operations unit destroyed approximately half of Russia's Pantsir air defense systems throughout 2025. This operation is part of a strategic objective to weaken Russian air defense capabilities, allowing Ukrainian forces to conduct effective strikes on military targets. The total estimated value of the destroyed systems is around $4 billion, significantly impacting Russian air defense operations.

The Dassault Rafale fighter jet, a 4.5-generation multirole aircraft, is currently in service with nine countries including India and Egypt. It is equipped with advanced systems such as AESA radar and is capable of carrying a wide range of weapons, including nuclear-capable missiles. The aircraft has undergone significant upgrades to maintain its relevance in modern air combat scenarios.

The United States Marine Corps has awarded Kodiak AI a contract to integrate its Kodiak Driver autonomous driving system into the ROGUE-Fires platform. This integration aims to enhance the operational capabilities of military ground vehicles in contested environments, supporting distributed maritime missions and expeditionary operations. The Kodiak Driver is designed for use in unstructured and unmapped environments, showcasing its dual-use capabilities in both commercial and defense applications.

ASELSAN showcased a trailer-mounted version of the SARP 100/35 weapon turret in Turkey, designed for air defense and ground engagement. This system, which can utilize 35mm ATOM programmable ammunition, allows for rapid deployment to secure locations such as ports and military bases. The turret's configuration enables it to operate independently from armored vehicles, enhancing its versatility in defending against aerial threats.

Lockheed Martin was awarded a $50.5 million contract modification by the U.S. Department of War on February 12, 2026, for the continued procurement of Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles (JASSM) and Long-Range Anti-Ship Missiles (LRASM). The work will be conducted in Orlando, Florida, with completion expected by August 29, 2029.

Hypersonix Launch Systems confirmed the launch of the DART AE hypersonic aircraft for flight testing from Wallops Island, Virginia, scheduled for late February 2026. The mission aims to validate propulsion and control systems using the SPARTAN scramjet engine, which operates at speeds exceeding Mach 5. This initiative is supported by the Defense Innovation Unit and Rocket Lab, reflecting significant advancements in hypersonic technology.

Hypersonix Launch Systems confirmed the first flight test of its DART AE hypersonic aircraft, scheduled for late February 2026 from Wallops Island, Virginia. The mission aims to validate propulsion and guidance systems under real hypersonic conditions, utilizing the hydrogen-fueled SPARTAN scramjet engine. This test represents a significant step towards operational hypersonic systems, supported by the Defense Innovation Unit and Rocket Lab.

The Hellenic Navy signed a contract to procure CAMCOPTER S-100 drones for deployment aboard three new FDI Belharra-class frigates. The first frigate, HS Kimon, is set to receive the drones in spring 2026, with training for crews also expected to conclude by then. The procurement aims to enhance Greece's maritime surveillance and naval aviation capabilities.

REGENT unveiled its new Squire autonomous Seaglider drone during a briefing in Quonset, Rhode Island, attended by U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth. The drone is designed for contested logistics, medical evacuation, and ISR missions, addressing capability gaps in U.S. military operations. The company plans to manufacture these vessels at a new facility to support scaled production.

The Hellenic Navy signed a contract to procure CAMCOPTER® S-100 unmanned air systems for deployment on its Belharra-class frigates, including HS Kimon, HS Nearchos, and HS Formion. The integration of these systems is set to enhance naval operations, with training for initial crews expected to be completed by spring 2026. HS Kimon will receive the UAS in spring 2026, while HS Nearchos and HS Formion are scheduled for late 2026 and early 2027, respectively.

Türkiye delivered M48 and M60 Patton tanks to the Somali Army in Mogadishu on February 14, 2026. The tanks were offloaded from the Turkish Navy landing ship TCG Sancaktar and escorted by Kipri armored vehicles through the city. This delivery enhances the operational capabilities of Somali forces, which have been receiving military support from Türkiye.

Rheinmetall received an initial order for 120mm tank ammunition valued at approximately €200 million from the NATO Support and Procurement Agency on 13 February 2026. This order is part of a framework agreement established in 2025, allowing NATO countries to procure ammunition directly from Rheinmetall, enhancing logistical efficiency. The 120mm ammunition is a standard armament for main battle tanks like the Leopard 2 and M1 Abrams.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) achieved a milestone by integrating mission autonomy into the YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft, successfully conducting its first semi-autonomous airborne mission on February 12, 2026, in San Diego. The Sidekick software enabled precise execution of commands for over four hours, showcasing advancements in unmanned aircraft technology.

HENSOLDT and Helsing established a strategic partnership in Munich on 12 February 2026 to develop the CA-1 Europa, an AI-supported autonomous combat aircraft. This collaboration aims to enhance European defense capabilities through advanced sensor technology and AI integration. The companies plan to conduct demonstrations of their technologies in the coming months, focusing on operational systems and customer coordination.

The People's Liberation Army Navy's Type 076 amphibious assault ship is undergoing sea trials in Shanghai and is expected to be delivered by the end of 2026. It will be the first ship of its kind equipped with an electromagnetic launch system, capable of deploying up to 6 GJ-21 stealth drones for aerial support during amphibious operations. This development marks a significant advancement in China's amphibious warfare capabilities.

Li MinghuiSat Feb 14 2026Loading...