Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force is reviving the Air Expeditionary Wing concept (AEW 2.0), set to launch in October 2023, allowing teams up to 18 months for training. This shift reflects a focus on the Western Hemisphere and departs from the previous Biden-era leadership structure. The new concept aims to enhance collaboration and readiness while operating within the existing 24-month deployment cycle.

President Trump suggested at the World Economic Forum in Davos that he might remove the '47' designation from the U.S. Air Force's future F-47 fighter if he is dissatisfied with the program. The F-47, linked to the P-47 Thunderbolt and the Air Force's founding year, is being developed by Boeing as part of the Next Generation Air Dominance initiative, with a first flight planned for 2028.

The Russian Navy is set to decommission the Admiral Kuznetsov aircraft carrier, with plans for scrapping or sale by 2026 due to extensive issues and economic unviability of repairs. Corruption has exacerbated the situation, leading to significant cost overruns. The Russian military is shifting away from traditional aircraft carriers, marking a significant change in naval strategy.

The Pentagon released its National Defense Strategy in January 2026, prioritizing homeland defense and signaling potential reductions in U.S. forces in Europe and South Korea. The strategy emphasizes increased burden-sharing with allies and a renewed focus on the Americas, particularly in countering narcoterrorism. This release marks a significant shift in military priorities under the Trump administration, contrasting with previous strategies.

President Trump made controversial remarks in Davos, questioning NATO troops' contributions in Afghanistan, suggesting they avoided frontline combat. This sparked backlash from NATO leaders, including Mark Rutte and Keir Starmer, who emphasized the sacrifices made by allied soldiers. The White House supported Trump's views on NATO spending disparities, further fueling international criticism.

President Trump made controversial remarks in Davos, questioning NATO troops' contributions in Afghanistan, suggesting they avoided frontline combat. This sparked global backlash, with NATO leaders defending their forces' sacrifices. UK Prime Minister Starmer and Poland's Prime Minister Tusk criticized Trump's comments, emphasizing the importance of allied contributions during the 20-year conflict.

U.S. Central Command Commander Brad Cooper visited Israel on January 24, marking his first visit since September. He was reported to have already arrived in Israel, coinciding with the expected arrival of U.S. Presidential envoy Wittekov and senior advisor Kushner, who are set to meet with Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu.

The U.S. Navy announced a ban on the use of kratom and its derivatives effective January 14, citing the need to protect service member welfare and maintain operational readiness. Violations of this policy will result in disciplinary action under military law. The Navy highlighted the potential health risks associated with these substances, which are not federally regulated.

The Department of Defense removed a loot box vending machine from the Pentagon's food hall after one month of operation. The machine, which offered unknown items for purchase, was taken out pending a review. This action reflects ongoing considerations regarding military morale and welfare services.

US President Trump withdrew threats regarding the acquisition of Greenland during the World Economic Forum in Davos on 21 January 2026, acknowledging NATO allies' unified stance. He stated that he would not pursue the acquisition by force and agreed to further discussions on Arctic security. This shift in tone follows significant criticism from NATO leaders and a notable speech by Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney addressing global power dynamics and the importance of collective security.

Rep. Jeff Crank advocates for the Golden Dome missile defense shield in the U.S., emphasizing the need for Congress to act on the initiative established by Trump in January 2025. Nearly 2,500 companies are involved in the project under the Missile Defense Agency. Crank expresses frustration over delays in receiving the necessary blueprint from the White House, which is critical to meet the ambitious timeline for the project.

Rep. Jeff Crank advocates for the Golden Dome missile defense shield in the U.S., emphasizing the need for Congress to act on the initiative established by Trump in January 2025. Nearly 2,500 companies are involved in the project under the Missile Defense Agency. Crank expresses frustration over delays in receiving the necessary blueprint from the White House, which is critical for moving forward with the ambitious timeline.

The United States Marine Corps announced that Marines who reenlist in Fiscal Year 2027 may qualify for a bonus of up to $50,000. This applies to those with contracts expiring between October 1, 2026, and September 30, 2027, and includes incentives for lateral moves into fields such as cyber and special operations. The initiative aims to enhance retention of skilled personnel.

Dwight D. Eisenhower was born in Denison, Texas, on October 14, 1880, and struggled with a violent temper in his youth. His interest in the military was influenced by his mother's collection of history books, despite her pacifist beliefs. He was nominated for the United States Military Academy at West Point in 1910, a decision that caused his mother distress. Eisenhower's early life shaped his leadership style and military career.

Venture capital investment in U.S. defense tech startups surged by over 200% in 2025, with companies like Aventura and Govini leading the way. The Pentagon is focusing on transforming these 'war unicorns' into reliable defense contractors, emphasizing the importance of advanced technology and a secure supply chain. Hexcel, a key player in aerospace-grade composites, exemplifies the successful transition from startup to defense workhorse.

Abraham Lincoln's quote, 'The best way to destroy an enemy is to make him a friend,' reflects his strategy for reconciliation during the Civil War. His Ten Percent Plan aimed to reintegrate Southern states by requiring only 10% of voters to swear loyalty, promoting a lenient approach to healing national divisions. This philosophy faced opposition from Radical Republicans advocating for stricter measures.

U.S. Space Force leaders are advocating for a personnel increase to manage the growing number of military satellites, which have risen from 225 to 515 since 2019. Gen. Shawn Bratton stated the need to double the size of the service, aiming for an increase of 1,000 troops annually over the next decade. The Space Force currently comprises 10,000 guardians and 5,000 civilians, with a budget projected to rise significantly by 2026. New components are being established to support various combatant commands.

General George Patton's quote highlights the necessity of preparing for the unknown by learning from historical experiences. This philosophy has been applied in various fields, including military strategy and financial markets. Patton's contributions to tank warfare during World War I are also noted, showcasing his innovative approach to military operations.

Monica Duffy Toft argues that while military force can topple a dictator in Venezuela, it fails to create political authority or legitimacy. The discussion highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls of U.S. intervention in the region.

Senior Space Force leaders expressed optimism about a significant budget increase and personnel growth starting in Fiscal Year 2027. Gen. Shawn Bratton indicated that the Space Force could potentially double in size over the next decade, with current personnel at approximately 15,000. New acquisition programs are expected to transition from technology demonstrations to formal acquisition, necessitating more acquisition professionals within the Space Force.