Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force is enhancing the F-35's capabilities through advanced computing and software updates, improving its sensor fusion and weapon systems. These upgrades include the integration of the Stormbreaker bomb and enhancements to the AIM-120 and AIM-9X missiles. The focus on cyber resilience is crucial as the F-35 is increasingly recognized as a 'flying computer' due to its reliance on sophisticated technology.

The B-52J bomber program is delayed until 2033, with costs rising to $15 billion for re-engining 76 aircraft. The U.S. Air Force is exploring alternative long-range strike options, including stealth drones, due to concerns over the B-52J's viability and the impending capability gap as the B-21 Raider also faces delays. This situation reflects a broader reassessment of U.S. airpower in light of evolving military needs.

Raytheon has signed agreements with the U.S. Department of Defense to significantly increase the production of Tomahawk, AMRAAM, Standard-3, and Standard-6 missiles across its facilities in Tucson, Huntsville, and Andover. This initiative aims to meet the growing global demand for precision-guided munitions, with production increases expected to begin immediately and span over seven years.

Singapore's military is enhancing its drone capabilities by operationalizing Israeli-made Orbiter 4 and Hermes 900 UAVs. The Royal Singapore Air Force is implementing new doctrines to counter drone swarms and has established a new unit, DROID, for drone operations. Training for reservists will commence in mid-2026, focusing on urban drone operations and counter-drone technologies.

The U.S. Navy designed the Montana-class battleship as the largest and most powerful battleship, featuring twelve 16-inch guns, but it was cancelled in 1943 before construction began. This decision reflected a shift in naval warfare priorities, as aircraft carriers proved more effective. The Montana-class represented the peak of battleship design, but its cancellation marked the end of battleship dominance in the U.S. Navy.

Israel has been approved to purchase 30 AH-64E Apache attack helicopters to enhance its military capabilities following recent conflicts. This decision marks a significant shift in the Israel Defense Forces' procurement strategy, moving away from previous plans to reduce manned rotorcraft. The helicopters are expected to play a crucial role in urban warfare and commando operations, reflecting lessons learned from the recent war.

The Czech Army is seeking to replace its Pandur II armoured personnel carriers, which have been in service for approximately 16 years. This move indicates a shift in military equipment strategy as the army looks to modernize its fleet.

ST Engineering unveiled the EagleStrike loitering munition and a new family of 5.56mm-caliber rifles at the Singapore Airshow 2026 from February 3-8. The EagleStrike, designed for the Singapore Army, is set for production in early 2027 and features a range of 12.4 miles. The new rifle family aims primarily at the export market and includes multiple weapon types, with international sales already confirmed.

Czech defense company Excalibur International signed a strategic cooperation agreement with Turkish Aselsan on February 4, 2024, to produce the Korkut air defense system on a Tatra Force 6×6 platform in the European Union. This joint venture aims to localize production and expand air defense capabilities for European and global markets, addressing the demand for mobile air defense systems against UAVs. CSG also opened a representation office in Brussels to enhance engagement with European institutions.

TAG Dynamics has developed the VELOX Infantry Squad Vehicle (ISV) in the UAE, designed for rapid movement and modular payload integration. The vehicle can carry up to 1,000 kilograms and reach speeds of 175 kilometers per hour, making it suitable for infantry units requiring transport and reconnaissance capabilities. Its lightweight design balances mobility and durability, catering to modern military needs.

The U.S. Army selected Swarmbotics AI on February 5, 2023, to develop swarming, attritable small unmanned ground vehicles as part of its Transformation in Contact initiative with the 1st Cavalry Division. This program aims to enhance the Army's capability to deploy large numbers of low-cost robotic platforms to support operations in contested environments, creating tactical dilemmas for adversaries while reducing reliance on expensive crewed systems.

The MQ-25 Stingray successfully completed low-speed taxi trials at MidAmerica Airport on January 30, 2023. This unmanned aerial refueling drone can carry 15,000 pounds of fuel, extending the range of carrier-based jets like the F-35C by up to 500 miles. The U.S. Navy and Boeing are conducting further tests to ensure the drone's durability and airworthiness, aiming to enhance the operational capabilities of naval forces against potential threats from China.

RTX signed five long-term framework agreements with the U.S. Department of War on February 4, 2026, to expand missile production capacity. The agreements aim to increase annual production of Tomahawk cruise missiles to over 1,000 units, AMRAAM to at least 1,900 missiles, and SM-6 to more than 500 missiles. Production will take place at Raytheon facilities in Tucson, Arizona; Huntsville, Alabama; and Andover, Massachusetts.

Israel's Ministry of Defense signed a $130 million agreement with Elbit Systems to integrate advanced Israeli technologies into 12 CH-53K helicopters. This deal aims to replace the aging CH-53 Yas'ur fleet and enhance the operational capabilities of the Israeli Air Force. The integration includes avionics, command-and-control systems, and electronic warfare equipment, ensuring the helicopters meet Israel's unique combat requirements.

Moog Inc. and Echodyne Corp. announced a collaboration on February 05, 2026, in East Aurora, NY, to develop integrated hardware and software solutions for defense applications. This partnership aims to enhance air and missile defense capabilities and combat vehicle platforms by combining Moog's weapon systems with Echodyne's radar technologies. The agreement signifies a commitment to delivering innovative solutions for global defense markets.

Allen-Vanguard secured multi-million dollar contracts for its EQUINOX NG and SCORPION 2 electronic countermeasure systems in South America on February 5, 2026. These systems are designed to protect personnel from radio-controlled improvised explosive devices and drone threats. The contract includes comprehensive support and training, enhancing the operational capabilities of the purchasing nation.

On February 5, 2026, the Israel Ministry of Defense signed a $130 million deal with Elbit Systems to integrate advanced Israeli technologies into 12 CH-53K helicopters. This integration includes command and control, avionics, electronic warfare systems, and an anti-missile DIRCM system, enhancing the operational capabilities of the Israeli Air Force. The helicopters are set to replace the IDF's aging Yas'ur helicopters and are currently being assembled in Connecticut.

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and Defence Science and Technology Agency (DSTA) expanded their partnership with Shield AI on February 5, 2026, to co-develop AI capabilities for autonomous drones. This collaboration aims to enhance mission autonomy, allowing drones to operate without human intervention. The agreement was announced at the Singapore Airshow 2026, marking a significant step towards Singapore achieving true sovereign autonomy in military AI capabilities.

Singapore Technologies Engineering unveiled the Terrex S5 HED armored vehicle and the Eagle Strike loitering munition system at the 2026 Singapore Airshow on February 2, 2026. The Terrex S5 HED features a hybrid power system with a power output exceeding 400 kW, significantly enhancing its capabilities. The Eagle Strike system is designed for precision strikes against high-value targets, with a range of 20 km and advanced sensor capabilities.

Excalibur International and Aselsan signed a strategic cooperation agreement to establish a joint venture in the EU on February 04, 2026. They will introduce the Korkut air defense system integrated on the Tatra Force 6×6 wheeled platform, aiming to enhance defense capabilities for European and global markets. This partnership focuses on air defense, electronic warfare, and smart munitions, with production planned in the Czech Republic and Slovakia.