Analysis & Reports

Paramount Greece and MAC HUB announced a strategic defense partnership in Athens and Kyiv on February 4, 2026, focusing on the joint development of advanced land platforms. The collaboration has resulted in the launch of the MAC OWL (Sova), a new MRAP armored vehicle designed for contemporary battlefield threats. This partnership marks a significant step in enhancing Ukraine's defense manufacturing capabilities and reflects the evolving security landscape in Europe.

Taiwan has begun receiving shipments of U.S.-made land-based Harpoon anti-ship missile systems. The deliveries include missile launcher trucks, radar vehicles, and command-and-control units, with 32 complete systems expected by the end of 2026. This acquisition is part of Taiwan's efforts to modernize its defenses against surface threats.

Kalashnikov Concern unveiled the RUS-PE loitering munition system at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, scheduled for February 8 to February 12. The system closely replicates Israel's Hero-90 loitering munition, designed for precision strikes on stationary and moving targets. It features an X-shaped aerodynamic configuration and operates in autonomous, semi-autonomous, and manual modes.

Indonesia has selected the Italian M-346 jet for pilot training and light combat, with plans to order 24 units to replace aging Hawk aircraft. The Indonesian Ministry of Defense chose the M-346 F Block 20 version, which includes advanced features such as a Large Area Display and electronic countermeasures. Leonardo has signed a Letter of Intent with Indonesian firms to support the aircraft's supply and operational requirements.

ST Engineering unveiled the Artos drone at the Singapore Airshow 2026, a low-SWaP multi-mission quadcopter designed for urban operations. Weighing 1.8 kg, it can carry a 500-gram payload and is intended to support infantry units with real-time situational awareness. The drone features modular architecture for various mission profiles and integrates into a broader command-and-control system with other unmanned platforms.

ST Engineering showcased its AI Cockpit at the Singapore Airshow 2026, designed to enhance interaction between crews and combat vehicles. The AI Cockpit serves as a voice-controlled combat assistant, integrating with platforms like the Terrex s5 HED 8×8 and Taurus UGV. It aims to streamline decision-making processes and reduce cognitive load for operators in combat environments. The technology is also intended for future applications in air and sea domains.

Red Cat introduced the V7 unmanned surface vessel at the Singapore Airshow in 2026, designed for long-range kinetic operations. Manufactured by Blue Ops, the V7 is intended for deep-strike missions and anti-ship warfare, featuring a semi-autonomous command-and-control system. The vessel aims to enhance US and allied naval capabilities with its high speed and low detectability.

Boeing's MQ-28 Ghost Bat will feature internal weapons bays and an increased wingspan, announced at the Singapore Airshow. The aircraft can carry various payloads, including AIM-120 missiles and Small Diameter Bombs, with delivery of the first Block 3 aircraft to the Royal Australian Air Force expected in 2028. Boeing is also exploring foreign partnerships for the aircraft's modular capabilities.

CSG and Aselsan signed a strategic cooperation agreement to establish a joint venture focused on defense capabilities in the Czech Republic and Slovakia. They will introduce the Korkut air defense system integrated on the Tatra Force 6×6 wheeled platform, targeting European and global markets. This partnership aims to enhance air defense, electronic warfare, and smart munitions capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading the B-1B Lancer fleet at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota, by adding external pylons to enhance its capability to carry hypersonic weapons. This modification aims to extend the aircraft's service life and maintain operational capacity until the B-21 Raider enters service. Maintenance activities are ongoing, including checks and repairs on the aircraft's systems.

Iran has upgraded its ballistic missile technology, enhancing its deterrent capabilities and preparing to respond to any enemy actions. Iranian Armed Forces Chief of Staff Mousavi stated that the military doctrine has shifted to an offensive posture following recent conflicts. Iran is set to negotiate nuclear issues with the U.S. on February 6, amid ongoing tensions with Israel and the U.S.

Raytheon announced a significant increase in missile production, including over 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles and 1,900 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles, following agreements with the Pentagon. Manufacturing will take place in Huntsville, Alabama; Tucson, Arizona; and Andover, Massachusetts. This decision comes after pressure from President Trump for faster military equipment production and a commitment to enhance U.S. military capabilities.

Raytheon announced a significant increase in missile production, including over 1,000 Tomahawk cruise missiles and 1,900 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles, following agreements with the Pentagon. Manufacturing will take place at facilities in Huntsville, Alabama; Tucson, Arizona; and Andover, Massachusetts. This decision comes after pressure from President Trump for faster military equipment production.

The U.S. Army is developing the M1E3 Abrams tank, featuring advanced systems and a pre-prototype expected in 2026. Concurrently, South Korea is advancing the K3 tank project, which aims to incorporate innovative technologies and replace the K2 Black Panther. Both tanks are in conceptual stages, with the M1E3 having a physical pre-prototype, while the K3 remains in design.

Russia restarted production of the Tu-160M bombers at the Kazan Aviation Plant in 2023, promising four new units to the Russian Aerospace Forces, though only two have been delivered. These bombers are capable of launching missiles from standoff ranges, significantly enhancing Russia's long-range strike capabilities in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The Tu-160M serves as a critical component of Russia's military strategy, especially in light of delays with the PAK DA stealth bomber program.

The U.S. Air Force conducted a live warhead test of the Extended Range Attack Munition (ERAM) at Eglin Air Force Base on January 21. This new standoff cruise missile, developed in under 18 months, aims to enhance precision strike capabilities against high-value targets. The test successfully met all objectives, and the U.S. has authorized the sale of ERAMs to Ukraine to strengthen its military arsenal.

The T-14 Armata tank has been withdrawn from combat in Ukraine due to its high cost and the changing nature of warfare, where cheaper and simpler tanks like the T-72 are favored. The Russian Army acknowledges that the T-14's complex design is not suited for the attrition-heavy conflict, leading to a strategic shift towards mass production of more rugged and replaceable equipment. This reflects a broader trend in military operations where traditional main battle tanks are relegated to support roles.

The U.S. Army debuted the M1E3 Abrams prototype in Detroit on January 17, 2026, showcasing its advanced features such as a hybrid diesel-electric engine and Trophy Active Protection System. This new tank is designed to be lighter, faster, and more maneuverable, addressing challenges faced in modern warfare. Additionally, Australia is donating 49 outdated M1A1 tanks to Ukraine as part of a broader arms package.

The U.S. Air Force is modernizing the B-52 Stratofortress, enhancing its capabilities with hypersonic weapons and advanced radar systems. This ongoing effort aims to transform the B-52 into a digital arsenal plane, capable of real-time data sharing and drone operations. Recent upgrades include the APQ-188 AESA radar and Combat Network Communication Technology (CONECT), allowing for improved mission effectiveness and operational flexibility.

The U.S. Navy announced that the Marine Corps AH-1Z Viper helicopters will be equipped with long-range precision-guided missiles by 2027. An $86.2 million contract was awarded to L3Harris Technologies for the production of the Red Wolf missile systems, which will enhance the helicopters' strike capabilities against maritime targets from long distances. The missiles are expected to be delivered by the end of fiscal 2027.