Analysis & Reports

The Space Force has initiated a $981 million contract pool involving 15 vendors to enhance training capabilities over the next five years. This effort aims to address significant gaps in instructors, facilities, and simulators necessary for key mission areas. The initiative is part of the National Space Test and Training Complex (NSTTC) and reflects growing concerns among senior officials regarding the adequacy of training resources as the force expands.

The U.S. Air Force's F-35A, despite being a newer aircraft, has an average availability comparable to that of a 36-year-old F-16C/D. The flyaway cost for the F-35A is reported at $82.5 million, with operational costs significantly higher than those of the F-16. The F-35 program is projected to cost $2.1 trillion, raising questions about its value relative to its advanced capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force faces significant cost and schedule risks in upgrading the B-52 Stratofortress bombers, with a projected $21 billion for 13 upgrades. Key efforts, including the engine replacement and radar modernization, are experiencing budget overruns and delays, potentially impacting operational capabilities. The Government Accountability Office has issued recommendations to address these challenges.

The U.S. Air Force operates 179 F-22 Raptors, which cost approximately $85,325 per flight hour. The total program cost is around $33.2 billion, with maintenance and operational expenses being significantly high. The F-22 remains a critical asset despite its high costs, especially in the context of great-power competition with Russia and China.

American Rheinmetall has been awarded an 18-month contract to provide autonomous uncrewed ground vehicles for the U.S. Army's Project Sustainment. These vehicles are designed to autonomously transport supplies, enhancing operational efficiency and reducing risk to soldiers. The project involves collaboration with partners such as Harbinger and Forterra, focusing on advancements in logistics and military operations.

AviaNera Technologies is establishing a new technology centre in the Central Bohemian Region to develop advanced propulsion systems for unmanned aerial systems. The project, announced on July 30, 2026, aims to enhance industrial capabilities and technological infrastructure, employing up to 100 specialists. This initiative is part of CSG's broader strategy to strengthen its position in the international technology market.

AviaNera Technologies is establishing a new technology centre in the Central Bohemian Region to develop advanced propulsion systems for unmanned aerial systems (UAS). The project, announced on July 30, 2026, aims to enhance industrial capabilities and technological infrastructure, employing up to 100 specialists. This initiative is part of CSG's broader strategy to create an international technology platform for UAS propulsion systems.

Thales was awarded a contract by the NATO Support and Procurement Agency to supply a Deployable Tactical Air Navigation (D-TACAN) system for the Spanish Air & Space Force. This system is designed for continuous operations in challenging conditions and includes a logistics support package. It enhances air navigation capabilities across NATO airspace, particularly in GNSS-denied environments.

Rheinmetall secured a contract to supply weapon systems for the British Army’s RCH 155 wheeled howitzers on 31 July 2026. The contract includes the provision of 72 howitzers and associated equipment, with production taking place at Rheinmetall’s facility in Telford, UK. This development enhances the British Army's artillery capabilities with advanced automated systems.

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.

President Trump's executive order establishes new rules for defense procurement of critical minerals, effective January 1, 2027. The order limits waivers for noncompliant materials and requires contractors to document efforts to find compliant sources. It mandates supply-chain visibility as a contractual obligation, aiming to enhance domestic production and reduce reliance on foreign sources.

The U.S. is set to maintain a troop presence of 76,000 soldiers in Europe as part of a review of military strategy for 2026. Germany is attempting to increase its military personnel to 260,000 active soldiers and 200,000 reservists, but faces recruitment challenges. NATO has pledged 70 billion euros in military support for Ukraine, highlighting the need for European nations to enhance their defense capabilities independently of U.S. support.

Dr. Klaus WeberFri Jul 31 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor fleet's mission-capable rate has dropped to 40.19 percent in fiscal 2024, prompting concerns over readiness. The Air Force has 184 F-22s, including 32 older Block 20 models that Congress has blocked from retirement. Upgrading these Block 20s is projected to cost at least $3.3 billion and take about 15 years, complicating the Air Force's operational capabilities amid increasing global demands.

The F-35 program is experiencing significant readiness issues, with the fleet's mission-capable rate dropping to 25% as of July 31, 2026. The U.S. Air Force is addressing these challenges through a proposed $13.7 billion sustainment reset. Key issues include delays in Block 4 modernization and insufficient power and cooling capacity for future upgrades. Locations involved include Columbus, Ohio, Jacksonville, Florida, and Santiago, Chile.

Ukrainian FP-1 drones attacked the Lukoil-Volgograd oil refinery and logistical targets in Krasnodar Krai and Crimea on July 31, 2023. This operation threatens 15 million tons of annual oil processing and highlights the vulnerability of Russian logistics. The strikes demonstrate Ukraine's ability to reach significant targets deep within Russian territory, impacting military supply chains.

Dmitri VolkovFri Jul 31 2026Loading...

Kratos Defense & Security Solutions completed the Indiana Payload Integration Facility for hypersonic systems in Crane, Indiana, on July 28, 2026, ahead of schedule. The $50 million facility is designed to enhance the U.S. military's hypersonic testing capabilities by allowing rapid preparation of experimental payloads. It is expected to create over 100 high-tech jobs and is part of a broader strategy to build defense manufacturing infrastructure in the region.

Certo Aerospace's uncrewed helicopter CAPSTONE successfully completed flight trials at Predannack Airfield, Cornwall, demonstrating speeds over 100 mph while carrying cargo. This marks the beginning of a series of tests aimed at proving the aircraft's readiness for military logistics operations. The trials are part of a summer testing schedule that includes further evaluations in Wiltshire, with the goal of enhancing military logistics capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force announced that operational testing of M-code chip cards for military platforms will conclude by fiscal 2027. Up to a million receivers are needed across various services, including the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The M-code program has faced delays, but the Army has already fielded nearly 4,000 receivers to operational units. Testing continues for platforms like the Gray Eagle UAV and F-16 aircraft, with significant logistical efforts underway to ensure readiness.

The U.S. Army Reserve successfully tested the DropShip aircraft during a logistics exercise on June 30, 2026, completing a 32-km autonomous resupply mission from Gulfport to Diamondhead, Mississippi. The aircraft, capable of carrying 249 kg of supplies, demonstrated its ability to operate from austere locations and conducted a precision airdrop. This marks a significant advancement in military logistics capabilities, allowing for resupply missions in contested areas without risking human pilots.

Military leaders from troop-contributing countries met in Kampala on July 29, 2023, to address the future of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) after the U.S. announced it would cease funding after December 31, 2026. The mission, which currently relies on U.S. logistical support, faces significant challenges from al-Shabaab and uncertainties regarding its operational capacity without American assistance.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 31 2026Loading...