Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading 44 B-1B Lancer bombers to increase their missile capacity from 24 to 36 missiles by integrating new Load Adaptable Modular (LAM) pylons. This upgrade aims to enhance the bombers' capabilities and maintain strategic deterrence until the B-21 Raider is fully operational, ensuring the B-1B remains relevant through the 2030s.

The U.S. Department of Defense has initiated the Drone Dominance Programme for the first time, selecting 25 vendors to participate. This program aims to enhance the U.S. military's capabilities in drone technology.

South Korea is upgrading its F-15K Slam Eagle fleet to the F-15EX Eagle II, enhancing its capabilities with hypersonic missile capability and advanced radar systems. This upgrade aims to provide critical combat mass in conjunction with 5th-generation stealth fighters. The F-15EX is designed to operate effectively against advanced threats, despite concerns regarding its lack of stealth compared to 5th-generation aircraft.

The U.S. Air Force is engaged in a debate over the production and cost of the F-47 stealth fighter, which is priced at approximately $300 million per unit. With plans for a production run of 186-200 aircraft, concerns have been raised about the sustainability and readiness of such a small fleet. The F-47 is intended to serve as a command node for Collaborative Combat Aircraft, enhancing combat capabilities. Discussions about potential exports to allies are also underway.

Airbus and Singapore completed the certification of the Automatic Air to Air Refueling (A3R) capability for the A330 MRTT, marking a significant milestone in military logistics. The certification was granted by INTA after extensive testing in Singapore and Spain. The A3R system is designed to enhance the Republic of Singapore Air Force's mission effectiveness and has attracted international interest, particularly from Canada. Thailand has also ordered the improved MRTT+ variant, with delivery scheduled for 2029.

Airbus and Singapore completed the certification of the Automatic Air to Air Refueling (A3R) capability for the Airbus A330 MRTT, marking a significant advancement in air-to-air refueling technology. The certification was granted by the Spanish National Institute for Aerospace Technology following extensive testing. The Republic of Singapore Air Force will benefit from this new capability, which is also attracting interest from other nations, including Canada and Thailand.

The K2 Black Panther is currently operational with the South Korean Army and Poland, showcasing advanced features and capabilities. The U.S. Army's M1E3 Abrams is in early development, aiming to enhance protection and modularity. Both tanks are equipped with 120 mm cannons, but the K2 is noted for its agility and existing deployment, while the M1E3 is still refining its design for future capabilities.

RTX has signed agreements with the Pentagon to significantly increase the production of various munitions, including over 1,000 Tomahawk missiles and at least 1,900 AMRAAM missiles annually. The agreements, announced in Washington, D.C., will span up to seven years and involve substantial investments in production facilities. This move reflects a positive shift in the relationship between RTX and the Pentagon, following previous criticisms from the Trump administration.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading the B-52H Stratofortress to the B-52J to modernize its fleet and ensure long-range strike capabilities. This upgrade includes new engines, radar, and enhanced weapons capacity, allowing the B-52J to carry advanced hypersonic and standoff missiles. The B-21 Raider will complement the B-52J by handling penetration missions, while the B-52J will focus on massed standoff fires. The modernization program is currently over budget and delayed by three years.

ST Engineering showcased the Titan 8x8 infantry fighting vehicle at the Singapore Airshow 2026, following a contract with the Singapore Army announced on January 26. The Titan, based on the Terrex s5, is set to enhance the army's capabilities with advanced firepower and digital systems, with deliveries expected to start in 2028.

China's J-35 stealth fighter is in low-rate initial production and undergoing testing aboard the Type 003 Fujian aircraft carrier. The J-35, designed for carrier operations, features a twin-engine configuration and aims to enhance China's naval aviation capabilities. It is expected to operate alongside the J-20 in a dual-stealth fighter strategy, marking a significant advancement in China's military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.

China is testing a new variant of the J-20A fighter aircraft, featuring a redesigned rear canopy and the WS-15 engine, enhancing its capabilities. Recent tests focused on manned-unmanned collaboration and air-ground coordination. Chengdu Aircraft Industry Group aims to have approximately 1,000 J-20A airframes operational by 2030, positioning the aircraft as a key combat and command node.

ST Engineering unveiled the Terrex s5 HED armored vehicle at the Singapore Airshow, capable of generating 400 kWh of electrical power to support various systems. The vehicle can carry 10 fully equipped troops and 2 crew members, weighing 35 tons. It features a remote control weapon station with a 30mm cannon optimized for counter-UAS operations. The Singapore Army will receive the Titan variant starting in 2028, equipped with advanced digital systems.

France delivered 1,000 infantry reconnaissance drones to the Armée de Terre as part of a rapid acquisition program. The drones, known as "drone du combattant," are equipped with optronic observation sensors and are intended to enhance situational awareness for infantry units. This delivery follows an order placed on June 30, 2025, and supports small-unit operations during Exercise ORION 2026 and beyond.

Overland AI raised $100 million to enhance the production of its ULTRA unmanned ground vehicles (UGVs) for the U.S. military, transitioning from experimental use to operational integration. The UGVs are designed for autonomous operations in challenging environments and have already supported missions with the 82nd Airborne Division. The funding will facilitate expanded manufacturing and field support as the technology is adopted by various military units.

Leonardo signed a Letter of Intent with the Indonesian Ministry of Defence to supply M-346F light fighters for the Indonesian Air Force. This agreement aims to modernize Indonesia's aircraft fleet by replacing older platforms and includes provisions for local support and training. The M-346F will serve dual roles in advanced pilot training and light combat, enhancing operational capabilities.

Chinese defense exports are under scrutiny as multiple countries report reliability failures and inadequate after-sales support for various military systems. Thailand's Type 69-II tanks were retired by 2004 due to unreliability, while Myanmar grounded its JF-17 fighter jets in late 2022 over structural issues. Jordan expressed dissatisfaction with its CH-4B UAVs, and Pakistan's F-22P frigates faced persistent operational problems. These issues raise concerns about the operational effectiveness of Chinese military equipment in active conflicts.

Ukraine is discussing the acquisition of JAS 39 Gripen jets and Meteor missiles from Sweden to enhance its air combat capabilities. These discussions were confirmed by Ukrainian Defense Minister Mykhailo Fedorov and Saab officials at the Singapore Airshow. The Meteor missile, known for its long range and advanced technology, would significantly improve Ukraine's operational effectiveness against Russian aircraft. A letter of intent for the export of up to 150 Gripen jets was signed last year, although no final deal has been concluded.

Hanwha Aerospace signed a $922 million agreement with the Norwegian Defence Materiel Agency to supply the Chunmoo multiple rocket launcher system (MRLS) to Norway's armed forces. This deal aims to enhance Norway's military capabilities with advanced artillery systems.

ST Engineering showcased the Axios delivery kit at the Singapore Airshow 2026, a modular, drone-agnostic solution for last-mile operations. This system can be integrated with various unmanned platforms and is designed for urban environments, emphasizing precision and responsiveness. It supports multiple payload types, including logistics and medical supplies, and is part of a broader C5ISR architecture.