Analysis & Reports

The USS Long Beach (CGN-9) was commissioned in September 1961 as the first nuclear-powered surface combatant, showcasing advanced radar and missile systems. It served extensively during the Cold War, providing air defense and naval support, before being retired in 1995. The vessel's design and technology influenced modern naval warfare, marking a significant transition from traditional artillery to guided missiles.

Public support for the U.S. war in Iran has dropped to one in three Americans, with 18 U.S. soldiers reported dead since the conflict began on February 28, 2023. A recent poll indicates that 69% of respondents feel President Trump has not clearly articulated the military's objectives. The war has also led to rising gasoline prices, impacting American finances and political dynamics ahead of the midterm elections.

The U.S. Marine Corps is acquiring a new anti-drone round for M4 and M27 rifles, with 400,000 rounds already purchased and an additional 1 million planned for Fiscal Year 2027. Deliveries are expected to be completed by September 2026 at the Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center in Twentynine Palms, California. This new ammunition is specifically designed to enhance the Marines' capability to counter small drones.

The YF-12 interceptor aircraft was developed by Lockheed Martin during the Cold War as a Mach 3 air defense platform. Although three prototypes were built, it never entered service due to shifting military priorities and high costs associated with the Vietnam War. The YF-12 set several aviation records and its technological advancements influenced future aircraft, notably the SR-71 Blackbird. The sole surviving prototype is preserved at the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio.

The US Navy dismantles retired aircraft carriers in Brownsville, Texas, where they are recycled for steel. This process involves strict environmental regulations and reflects the end of service for many significant vessels, including the USS Kitty Hawk and USS John F. Kennedy. Brownsville has become the largest commercial ship recycling hub in the US, marking the transition from old naval power to the next generation of supercarriers.

U.S. Army soldiers integrated the Picatinny Common Lethality Integration Kit onto the C100 drone at Fort Irwin, California, on July 20, 2026. This integration allows the drone to carry and deploy lethal payloads, demonstrating its adaptability for various military roles. The exercise was part of Project Convergence Capstone 6, aimed at testing new technology concepts in realistic field conditions.

British paratroopers tested e-bike tactics for anti-tank operations during Exercise Rhino Bizz in Suffield, Alberta, Canada. Approximately 350 troops participated, utilizing Sting e-bikes to enhance mobility and strike capabilities. The exercise involved the use of Javelin missiles and other munitions, demonstrating a shift in traditional infantry tactics. This initiative reflects the British Army's commitment to adapting to modern warfare technologies.

The U.S. Defense Innovation Unit successfully completed an unmanned stores separation flight test with Hermeus' Quarterhorse in Atlanta. This test is part of the HyCAT program, which aims to accelerate hypersonic flight capabilities. The Quarterhorse reached a top speed of Mach 1.21, and a significant $159 million contract was awarded to Hermeus for ongoing testing and data sharing to inform future military aircraft development.

Amphibious Forces are currently integrating various military roles and advanced equipment into their operations, focusing on sea and shore exercises. Soldiers are now trained to operate alongside unmanned aerial vehicles and boats, enhancing their capabilities. This shift marks a departure from traditional roles, emphasizing a more versatile approach to modern warfare.

CACI International received a $500 million contract to supply its SkyValor counter-drone system to the Joint Interagency Taskforce 401 in Washington. This contract includes full-rate production and deployment of the system at critical mission locations to enhance protection against drone threats. The SkyValor system utilizes advanced detection and electronic warfare capabilities, having been previously tested at Marine Corps Air Station in Yuma, Arizona.

USS Enterprise ran aground in San Francisco Bay on April 28, 1983, while attempting to return to Naval Air Station Alameda. The nuclear-powered aircraft carrier, 3,000 feet from the pier, settled in shallow water after missing the dredged channel. Captain Robert J. Kelly accepted responsibility for the incident, which resulted in no injuries and minimal damage to the vessel.

USS Enterprise struck Bishop Rock at Cortes Bank, California, on November 2, 1985, during a readiness exercise, resulting in a 40-foot gash and the temporary loss of 24 aviation-fuel tanks. The incident caused $17 million in damage and required six weeks of repairs. Despite the flooding, the carrier resumed training after a one-day inspection and returned to Alameda on November 23, 1985.

An unidentified drone was discovered in Iron County, Gangwon Province, South Korea, on July 30, prompting the evacuation of nearby residents. The U.S. Marine Corps confirmed that the drone was part of a joint military exercise. Local authorities received notifications about the drone's presence, and the U.S. military is currently investigating the incident.

Leidos is enhancing logistics capabilities in the Pacific by prepositioning 14,000 personnel and integrating AI into planning processes. The Indo-Pacific Logistics and Sustainment Services (ILS2) program aims to mitigate logistical challenges through technology and partnerships. Autonomous vessels are being utilized to ensure mission success while minimizing risk to service members. The Indo-Pacific Logistics Alliance, comprising over 70 companies, supports these efforts.

On July 30, 2026, Elbit Systems revealed a maritime UAV carrier designed to launch and recover 12 Hermes 650 drones. This development allows commercial vessels to serve as UAV platforms, enhancing surveillance and strike capabilities in the Gulf and Red Sea. The Hermes 650 can operate with minimal space and supports automated functions, potentially changing military dynamics in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Jul 30 2026Loading...

Askari Defense advanced to the final round of the U.S. Army's xTech|Adaptive Strike competition in 2026 with its drone interceptor, Rift Alpha. This technology is designed to counter small drones and is intended for use by individual soldiers. The company successfully completed a Phase 2 field evaluation at Fort Irwin, California, demonstrating its capability under combat-like conditions.

Thirteen F-35A Lightning IIs participated in the Red Flag 17-1 exercise at Nellis Air Force Base in January 2017, achieving a kill ratio of 20-to-1 against F-16 aggressors. The F-16s employed swarm tactics, attacking in waves, which pressured the F-35s and led to their seven losses, all occurring within visual range. The exercise demonstrated the F-35's operational capabilities and the challenges posed by massed enemy aircraft.

The U.S. has paused military strikes against Iran for the third consecutive night as both nations halt attacks on each other's forces. This unexpected ceasefire is attributed to concerns over depleting U.S. weapon stockpiles, ongoing negotiations facilitated by Oman, and declining public support for the conflict in the U.S. The situation remains fluid as discussions continue.

On July 29, a Ukrainian Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed while on a mission to intercept enemy aerial targets. The pilot safely ejected and was evacuated for medical checks. There were no casualties or damage reported on the ground, and an investigation into the crash is underway.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu discussed three scenarios regarding Iran's situation with U.S. President Trump on July 29, 2023, including a diplomatic agreement, continued sanctions, or military action. He also expressed a desire to gradually reduce U.S. military aid over the next decade while proposing a joint fund for new weapon systems. Israeli officials recognized the necessity of reducing reliance on U.S. political conditions for Israel's security.