Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy's F/A-XX sixth-generation fighter program received a significant funding boost, increasing from $74 million to $972 million for FY2026. This program aims to replace the aging F/A-18 Super Hornet and enhance naval air capabilities with advanced features like hypersonic weapons. Boeing and Northrop Grumman are potential contractors, and the F/A-XX is critical for countering threats from Chinese anti-ship missiles.

The UK Ministry of Defence announced on January 24, 2026, that seven companies have been selected to develop unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) under Project NYX, intended to operate alongside British Army Apache attack helicopters. The UAVs will enhance military capabilities in reconnaissance, strike, and electronic warfare, with initial operational capability expected by 2030. This initiative reflects the UK's strategic shift towards integrating advanced technology in military operations.

Seven suppliers, including Anduril, BAE, Leonardo, Lockheed, Syos, Tekever, and Thales, have been selected to design a new Apache wingman in the United Kingdom. This initiative highlights advancements in military technology and the development of new weapon systems.

Soframe was selected to equip the French Army with Heavy Recovery Vehicles (ELD) following a competition by the French Defense Procurement Agency. The contract includes an initial delivery of 20 units in 2027, with 5 units expected before the end of the first semester. The framework allows for an optional order of up to 80 additional units, enhancing the French Army's capabilities.

Abu Dhabi Ship Building (ADSB) is increasing production of offshore vessels and corvettes, with the first Falaj-3 vessel expected to be delivered to Kuwait by mid-2027. The company is also developing unmanned surface vessels and integrating new technologies, while 70% of its order book is for export to markets including Angola and Kuwait. The first BR71 MKII corvette will be launched on March 4 in Cherbourg, France.

ST Engineering was awarded a contract by Singapore's Ministry of Defence in December 2025 for the production of next-generation infantry fighting vehicles (IFVs) based on the Terrex s5. The delivery of these vehicles is scheduled to begin in 2028, featuring advanced capabilities such as enhanced situational awareness and cyber security. ST Engineering will work with MINDEF to integrate additional capabilities into the new IFVs.

Elbit Systems completed the acquisition of UAV Tactical Systems in Leicester, UK, to produce drones for European customers. This acquisition follows the British government's decision to phase out the Watchkeeper drones. Elbit is also involved in other drone technologies, including the Hermes 900 and loitering munitions.

Elbit Systems was awarded a USD 228 million contract on 26 January 2026 to supply its Iron Fist active protection system (APS) for upgrading US Army Bradley Fighting Vehicles. This contract follows a previous USD 383.5 million contract issued to General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems for the same purpose. The Iron Fist APS enhances the survivability of armored platforms against modern battlefield threats and has been selected by various NATO armies.

The first MC-55A Peregrine surveillance and electronic warfare jet arrived at RAAF Base Edinburgh, Australia, late last week. This aircraft, modified from the Gulfstream G550, is part of a four-aircraft acquisition aimed at enhancing Australia's surveillance capabilities. It will be operated by the RAAF's 10 Squadron and is expected to improve the country's ability to monitor its strategic interests and integrate with allied systems.

President Trump announced the 'Super Raptor' upgrade for the F-22 Raptor during a visit to Doha, Qatar. This upgrade aims to extend the aircraft's service life to 15,000 hours and includes advanced capabilities such as next-generation infrared search-and-track systems and the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile. Additionally, a new 'F-55' concept was introduced as an upgrade to the F-35.

The U.S. Air Force is developing the F-47 NGAD stealth fighter, which is expected to achieve speeds of Mach 2 and a range exceeding 1,000 miles. This aircraft will utilize advanced adaptive-cycle engines from General Electric and Pratt & Whitney, enhancing its operational capabilities. The F-47 aims to replace the F-22 and will feature sophisticated sensor systems and next-generation weaponry, marking a significant advancement in air superiority technology.

Russia is decommissioning its sole aircraft carrier, the Admiral Kuznetsov, due to prohibitive repair costs and corruption. The carrier, plagued by technical failures, will likely be scrapped or sold, marking the end of Russian carrier aviation for the foreseeable future. The crew has been reassigned to infantry roles in Ukraine, further indicating the decline of the Russian Navy's capabilities.

Soframe was selected by the French Defence Procurement Agency to supply the French Army with 20 heavy recovery vehicles, with initial deliveries scheduled for 2027. The contract includes an option for up to 80 additional units. These vehicles will enhance the French Army's capabilities and are similar to those provided to the Belgian Army, indicating strengthened joint operations between the two nations.

The U.S. Air Force's B-21 Raider program achieved a significant milestone in September 2025 with the addition of a second test aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base. This expansion allows for parallel testing of the bomber's flight envelopes and mission systems, accelerating its path to operational service. The B-21 is designed to replace the aging B-1B and B-2 fleets, featuring advanced stealth capabilities to penetrate modern air defenses.

The U.S. military recently tested swarm drone attack capabilities on domestic soil, where one operator controlled multiple combat drones to strike different targets. This operation highlighted the significant role of artificial intelligence in enabling such coordinated attacks. The successful test suggests potential advantages in asymmetric warfare, although challenges in command control and interference resistance remain.

ST Engineering was awarded a contract by the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) in December 2025 for the production and supply of next generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles (IFVs) in Singapore. The IFVs, based on the Terrex s5 platform, are scheduled for delivery starting in 2028. This contract highlights ST Engineering's capabilities in advanced defense solutions.

Elbit Systems was awarded a $228 million contract by General Dynamics Ordnance and Tactical Systems to supply the Iron Fist Active Protection System for U.S. Army Bradley IFV upgrades. The contract, announced on January 26, 2026, will be executed over three years and aims to enhance the survivability of armored platforms against modern battlefield threats. Iron Fist APS has been selected by various military forces, including the Israel Defense Forces and NATO armies.

Taiwan conducted its first dive tests of the domestically built Hai Kun submarine in January 2026 at Kaohsiung. This marks a significant step in Taiwan's indigenous submarine program, aimed at strengthening undersea deterrence. The full testing program is expected to conclude by mid-2026, with the submarine's handover to the navy targeted for June 2026, following previous technical setbacks.

Elbit Systems confirmed on January 26 that it received a $228 million contract to supply Iron Fist Active Protection Systems for the U.S. Army's Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle upgrades. This contract expands ongoing deliveries as part of the Army's effort to enhance the survivability of its armored vehicle fleet. The Iron Fist system will be integrated into upgraded Bradley IFVs, providing full-sphere protection against a range of battlefield threats.

Kalashnikov Concern delivered a batch of electric transport vehicles, including Izh-Enduro motorcycles and Izh-ScootWay scooters, to a Russian military unit in 2025. These vehicles are designed for combat zones, capable of carrying cargo and operating in difficult terrain. They feature low-noise characteristics, making them suitable for operations close to the front line.