Analysis & Reports

Norinco unveiled the FL50 swarm-capable loitering munition at the World Defense Show in Riyadh in 2026. The system features a multi-canister launcher mounted on an armoured carrier, designed for precision strikes and capable of operating autonomously or within a sensor network. Each munition weighs 37 kg and is equipped with a 5.5 kg warhead, enhancing the operational capabilities of military forces.

Ukraine has developed and tested a new air defense system called Shershen, which allows for the use of multiple missile types from a single launcher. The system has been tested with various missiles, including Soviet-era and foreign-made types. This development aims to address the shortage of air defense missiles and reduce dependence on single suppliers. The National Association of Defense Industries of Ukraine (NAUDI) is the main developer involved in this project.

The U.S. Department of War awarded BAE Systems a $145 million contract for the development and delivery of Counter Unmanned Aerial Systems weapon systems on Feb. 11, 2026. The initial delivery order is valued at $66,673,298, with work to be performed in Hudson, New Hampshire, and expected completion by July 31, 2027. This contract addresses the growing operational concern of unmanned aerial threats for U.S. and allied forces.

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) successfully integrated mission autonomy software into the YFQ-42A Collaborative Combat Aircraft, conducting its first semi-autonomous airborne mission in San Diego on 12 February 2026. The Sidekick software, provided by Collins Aerospace, enabled the aircraft to execute commands with high accuracy for over four hours. This milestone underscores GA-ASI's commitment to advancing autonomous systems for defense applications.

The U.S. Army established a rotational force in the Philippines to maintain the Typhon missile system, set to be deployed on Luzon Island starting April 2024. This system includes SM-6 and Tactical Tomahawk missiles, enhancing U.S. military capabilities in the region. The Philippines plans to procure the Typhon system to deter Chinese naval forces, although concerns exist regarding the U.S. production capacity to support multiple deployments.

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USS John F. Kennedy (CVN-79) completed its first sea trial in Norfolk, Virginia, and is expected to be delivered to the U.S. Navy early next year. The Ford-class carrier features an advanced Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS), which aims to enhance aircraft launch capabilities. Concerns remain regarding the reliability of this new system compared to traditional steam catapults, and the Kennedy is anticipated to be stationed at a naval base on the West Coast after entering service.

International Armored Group (IAG) introduced the RILA 8×8 Infantry Fighting Vehicle (IFV), designed for modern battlefield dynamics. The vehicle features advanced armor, a Gross Vehicle Weight Rating (GVWR) of 22,000 to 32,000 kilograms, and can accommodate up to twelve personnel. It is equipped with a 25mm main weapon system and various advanced systems, including 360° video surveillance and CBRN protection.

The U.S. Air Force is testing autonomy on multiple drone wingman prototypes using the Autonomy Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA). This framework allows integration of various technologies from different vendors, promoting a competitive ecosystem for future collaborative combat aircraft. General Atomics and Anduril have successfully conducted semi-autonomous flights, while Northrop's Project Talon CCA is set to compete in the program.

As of February 12, 2026, the Russian Air Force operates approximately 30 Su-57 stealth fighters, with a recent delivery of upgraded models. The aircraft has been primarily utilized in a limited capacity during the Ukraine conflict, while recent footage confirms its export to Algeria. Despite its advanced design, the Su-57's operational capabilities and numbers remain significantly lower compared to U.S. 5th-generation fighters like the F-35.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which could potentially reach operational status by 2026. With a range of 8,500 km and the capability to carry nuclear-capable cruise missiles, the H-20 poses a significant threat to U.S. territories such as Guam and Hawaii. Concerns exist regarding the mass deployment of these bombers, which could enable large-scale nuclear strikes.

The U.S. Air Force successfully integrated autonomous software into its prototype collaborative combat aircraft, YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A, marking a significant milestone in its CCA strategy. This integration, utilizing the Autonomy Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA), aims to enhance operational capabilities and prevent vendor lock-in. The Air Force plans to deploy at least 1,000 CCAs for various missions, including strike operations and reconnaissance, with ground testing set to begin in 2025.

The U.S. Air Force successfully integrated autonomous software into its prototype collaborative combat aircraft, marking a significant milestone in its CCA strategy. The Air Force plans to deploy at least 1,000 CCAs for missions such as strike operations and reconnaissance. Ground testing for the YFQ-42A and YFQ-44A began in spring 2025, utilizing the Autonomy Government Reference Architecture (A-GRA) for software integration.

A Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey made an emergency landing in Oahu, Hawaii, on February 3, 2023, due to a gearbox failure. The aircraft, part of the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and VMM-268 squadron, landed safely with no injuries reported. This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding the Osprey, which has experienced multiple crashes linked to similar mechanical issues. The Marine Corps is currently replacing gearboxes to enhance operational safety.

Helsing and HENSOLDT are collaborating to develop AI-enabled combat air systems, upgrading the CA-1 autonomous aircraft in Bavaria, Germany. The partnership aims to enhance the aircraft's capabilities with advanced sensor technologies and AI integration. The CA-1 is expected to be operational within four years, contributing to Europe's defense capacity.

The U.S. Navy plans to construct 20-25 Trump-class battleships by 2026, each costing $10-$15 billion. These ships are intended to incorporate advanced weapon systems like hypersonic missiles and railguns. However, critics warn that the program is strategically flawed against China's anti-access/area-denial capabilities and faces significant technological and funding hurdles.

Russia's United Aircraft Corporation delivered a new batch of Su-57 Felon stealth fighters to the Aerospace Forces, featuring enhanced avionics and weapons integration. This delivery is part of Russia's efforts to modernize its tactical fleet, which is largely reliant on older Soviet-era aircraft. Despite international sanctions limiting production, the Su-57 is considered crucial for maintaining a credible fifth-generation capability in the face of NATO advancements.

Shield AI representatives discussed the significance of trusted autonomy in operating drones in environments where GPS cannot be relied upon. They emphasized the need for sovereign control over UAS operations, particularly in denied environments. The conversation highlighted the evolving landscape of unmanned aerial systems.

Fortem Technologies will deploy counter-drone systems at 11 venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, starting June 11. This multimillion-dollar contract from the Department of Homeland Security aims to protect matches from hostile drones using technologies like DroneHunter and signal jamming. The initiative is part of a broader $115 million investment in counter-drone technology to secure major events.

The US Army successfully defeated drone swarms using the Coyote Block 3 Non-Kinetic counter-uncrewed aircraft system during an exercise in the United States.

The U.S. Air Force is delivering 126 F-35 Lightning II aircraft without their intended AN/APG-85 radar systems due to engineering mismatches. This delivery began in June 2025 and is expected to conclude in September 2026. The radar system's development has faced significant delays, impacting the aircraft's operational capabilities. The Block 4 modernization of the F-35 is now projected to be completed by 2031, five years later than initially planned.