Analysis & Reports

Ethiopia has acquired a Russian Orion-E reconnaissance and strike drone, marking the first confirmed export of this system. The drone was displayed at the Aviation Expo 2026, indicating its operational capabilities for reconnaissance and strike missions. This acquisition highlights Ethiopia's engagement with Russian military technology, as the Orion-E has been utilized by Russian forces in various combat operations.

Two 054B frigates were commissioned into the People's Liberation Army Navy in early 2025. These new-generation frigates feature advanced stealth designs, a displacement of 5000 tons, and are equipped with a 100mm main gun and dual-sided phased array radar, marking a significant upgrade in China's naval capabilities.

Iran showcased its domestically produced 'Shahed' series drones during a televised event on the evening of the 22nd. The drones, including models like the 'Shahed-129', were previously used in a military conflict with Israel last June. IRGC Air Force officials highlighted the capabilities of these drones, including their armament and specifications.

The U.S. Air Force confirmed the addition of a second B-21 Raider test aircraft at Edwards Air Force Base in September 2025, accelerating the flight test program. This development signals rapid progress towards the operational deployment of the B-21, designed to replace aging bombers and penetrate advanced air defenses. The B-21's capabilities are expected to enhance U.S. long-range strike options against adversaries.

Chinese researchers at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Centre claimed to have identified aerodynamic and stability limitations in the U.S. Air Force's B-21 Raider stealth bomber using their PADJ-X software. The software reportedly enhances the aircraft's performance metrics, although the findings are based on theoretical modeling rather than classified data. The B-21 Raider is currently undergoing flight testing and is expected to achieve operational capability by the mid-2020s.

The U.S. Army is rolling out four prototypes of the M1E3 tanks for field testing this summer, five years ahead of the original schedule. This initiative allows soldiers to test various hardware and software components to optimize performance. The new tanks feature a hybrid-electric engine and a software-defined architecture, enabling rapid updates and improvements. The Army's approach involves collaboration with multiple vendors to ensure cutting-edge technology is integrated into the tanks.

The U.S. Air Force has resumed deliveries of the F-15EX Eagle II to Portland Air National Guard Base, showcasing its capabilities in air-to-air combat against fifth-generation aircraft. The F-15EX, equipped with advanced computing and weapon systems, can perform 87 billion operations per second and is designed to carry hypersonic weapons and the Stormbreaker bomb. It is operationally effective despite lacking stealth features, providing significant support to the Air Force's stealth fleet.

The U.S. Navy is developing the SSN(X) submarine program, which aims to enhance undersea warfare capabilities. The program's first procurement has been delayed to the early 2040s due to budgetary constraints and industrial capacity issues. The Navy's FY 2026 budget allocates $622.8 million for research and development of the SSN(X), indicating its strategic importance despite current production challenges with existing submarine classes.

The J-20 fighter jet from China is compared to the U.S. F-35 and F-22, highlighting the challenges in assessing their capabilities due to unknown factors. The F-35's global adoption and pilot experience are emphasized as key advantages. The F-15EX and Su-35 are also discussed as notable fourth-generation fighters, with the F-15EX outperforming some fifth-generation jets in simulations. Overall, the report underscores the complexities in evaluating these advanced aircraft.

The U.S. Navy is considering the potential upgrades for the F-14 Tomcat 21 'Super', which could include lasers and hypersonic missiles. The aircraft's legacy design allows for significant enhancements, maintaining its relevance in modern combat. The F-14's advanced radar and missile systems enable it to engage targets at long ranges, and its variable-sweep wing design enhances its versatility in various roles.

USS Zumwalt (DDG-1000) underwent modernization in Pascagoula, MS, integrating Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missiles. This upgrade enhances the destroyer's capabilities, allowing it to strike targets over 1,700 miles away. The U.S. Navy aims to have all three Zumwalt-class ships equipped with this advanced weaponry by 2026, transforming them into potent long-range strike platforms.

China is developing the JH-XX stealth bomber to complement the H-20, with expected operational capability by 2025. The JH-XX will likely weigh 60 tons and is designed to threaten U.S. military assets in the Pacific, including Guam. It will replace the aging H-6 bomber, enhancing the capabilities of the People's Liberation Army Air Force.

France's DGA ordered long-range, remote-controlled munitions from MBDA and Aviation Design. This acquisition indicates a focus on enhancing military capabilities with new weapon systems.

Diehl Defence opened a new missile integration centre in Nonnweiler, Saarland, on 23 January 2026, creating 3,400 m² of production space. This facility will enhance the company's capacity for integrating IRIS-T missile variants. The expansion is part of a broader growth initiative, with an investment of approximately EUR 1.5 billion, driven by increased demand from NATO countries following the Ukraine War.

China is developing the DF-27 ICBM-class anti-ship missile, which could threaten U.S. Navy carrier strike groups from intercontinental ranges. This advancement alters the strategic landscape in the Pacific, compelling the U.S. to reassess its naval operational strategies. The effectiveness of the missile depends on a resilient network of sensors and data links to track and target moving vessels.

Russia used export-version S-400 missiles to strike ground targets in Ukraine, marking the first recorded use of these missiles in combat. The 48N6E2 missiles, originally intended for foreign customers, were confirmed to have been diverted from an Indian contract. The strikes reflect Russia's reliance on export stockpiles as its own missile reserves dwindle.

The U.S. Air Force's B-21 Raider is designed to counter advanced Russian air defenses, including the S-500. It features enhanced stealth capabilities and operates as a multi-role bomber and command-and-control node. Recent upgrades to U.S. stealth platforms aim to maintain superiority against evolving threats. Russian claims about the S-500's ability to detect stealth aircraft remain unverified, but the B-21's design incorporates advanced technologies to ensure mission success.

Bulgaria approved a $205 million project to purchase Naval Strike Missiles to enhance its coastal defense capabilities. The deal, conducted with the U.S. government, is expected to see payments concentrated between 2029 and 2030. This acquisition follows a similar purchase by Romania and is part of a broader effort to counter increased Russian military activity in the Black Sea.

Congress increased funding for the U.S. Navy's F/A-XX sixth-generation fighter program to $972 million for 2026, reviving its development. The F/A-XX aims to enhance stealth and range capabilities to counter China's expanding military fleet. Boeing and Northrop Grumman are the primary contractors, with the program reflecting growing concerns over Chinese advancements in fifth and sixth-generation aircraft.

The U.S. Navy has cancelled its next-generation DDG(X) destroyer program to focus on the Trump-class battleship, which displaces over 35,000 tons and is designed to carry advanced weaponry. Critics warn that the estimated cost of $8-10 billion per hull is unsustainable and that the centralized battleship concept contradicts modern naval strategies. The program is in the design phase, with construction of the lead ship projected to begin in the early 2030s.