Analysis & Reports

AZAK was added to the U.S. Army’s Infantry Last Tactical Mile program on October 12, 2025, to develop uncrewed ground vehicles for logistics and casualty evacuation. The company’s innovative S26 wheel module integrates key components into each wheel, allowing for versatile vehicle configurations. The Army has evaluated AZAK's technology through multiple trials, leading to a formal agreement to field its vehicles with operational units.

The U.S. Army officially named its new cannon the XM1776 Mobile Tactical Cannon during a ceremony in Washington on October 12, 2023. The Army has ordered nine prototypes from Hanwha Defense USA, with an option for nine additional units. This new artillery system is based on the K9 Mobile Howitzer and aims to enhance the Army's long-range precision fires capabilities. The first prototype was displayed at a recent Army event.

MARSS signed a £370 million contract to deliver a nationwide counter-drone defense system for Kuwait, utilizing the NiDAR command and control system. The project will involve the installation of various sensors and interceptors over the next 24 months, creating approximately 100 new jobs in the UK. This initiative aims to enhance Kuwait's defense capabilities against aerial threats.

Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) unveiled HawkGuard, a new active protection system against aerial threats, at the AUSA Annual Meeting in Washington D.C. on October 12, 2026. This system enhances IAI's multi-layered Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems (C-UAS) architecture by introducing kinetic interception capabilities. HawkGuard is designed for flexible deployment on various platforms and aims to address the growing challenge posed by drones.

Morocco signed a memorandum of understanding with South Korea's KAI during the 2026 Marrakech Air Show to procure FA-50 fighter jets. This initiative aims to modernize the Moroccan Air Force, which currently relies on outdated aircraft. The FA-50 will enhance training and combat capabilities, particularly in integrating with U.S. systems like the F-16.

Germany plans to equip its army with low-cost cruise missiles to enable large-scale combat operations. The announcement was made by General Christian Freuding in Berlin on October 8, 2023. The missiles are intended for saturation attacks on enemy targets up to 1500 km away, and a production facility for these missiles is set to open in Leipzig in 2027.

The U.S. Department of Defense is recruiting around 100 military personnel with experience in flying FPV drones as part of its drone dominance program, announced on October 8, 2023. This initiative, part of an $11 billion investment, aims to enhance the U.S. drone industry and establish a permanent roster of drone operators. Selected pilots will gain hands-on experience with advanced drone models and specialized training for attack drones.

Uvision and Wayland Autonomy announced the integration of Wayland's IRIS airborne imaging payload into Uvision's Tactical CORTEX architecture at AUSA in Washington D.C. from October 10-12, 2026. This collaboration enhances ISR capabilities, allowing for effective target generation and situational awareness in GPS-denied environments. The HERO 400Q drone equipped with IRIS will provide long-range ISR and actionable targeting information.

Airbus and Kratos Defense & Security Solutions successfully conducted the maiden flight of the U740 Valkyrie uncrewed combat aircraft in Germany on 12 October 2026. This flight marks a significant step towards delivering a combat-ready system by 2029, featuring advanced capabilities such as autonomous operations and integration with crewed aircraft. The Valkyrie is designed to enhance operational effectiveness for European armed forces.

Sage Technologies is leading the digitization of military night vision goggles as of October 12, 2026. The company is addressing market challenges and integrating AI applications into its products, enhancing their capabilities in military operations.

North Korea launched multiple ballistic missiles from near Pyongyang on October 12, 2026, around 9:20 AM. At least two missiles were confirmed, with one flying over 910 kilometers and landing outside Japan's EEZ. This launch is seen as a response to South Korea's recent hypersonic missile test, complicating the tracking and response efforts of Japan, the U.S., and South Korea.

Tanaka TakashiTue Oct 13 2026Loading...

The 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition is being held in Zhuhai, featuring 90 companies and 40 aircraft. The event will showcase a platform for drones and counter-drone systems, with dynamic demonstrations highlighting the latest developments in counter-drone technology. Several new drones are also scheduled for flight demonstrations.

On October 13, the People's Liberation Army Navy showcased active naval vessels and land equipment at the Gao Lan Port during the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai. The exhibition featured a static display of naval vessels and included a dynamic performance area. The event required online reservations for entry and highlighted various military equipment, including a new 500-ton unmanned vessel.

On October 13, the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition commenced in Zhuhai, showcasing advanced aerospace and defense technologies. China Aviation Industry Group presented over 370 products, while China Electronics Technology Group displayed 550 cutting-edge items, including military equipment. China Aviation Engine Corporation introduced nearly 90 types of aircraft engines, many of which were unveiled for the first time.

The Chinese Air Force showcased multiple advanced military equipment types at the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Zhuhai on October 13. The display included reconnaissance aircraft, early warning systems, and unmanned systems, emphasizing the modernization of the air force's operational capabilities. Flight performances were designed to reflect real combat training and readiness.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force will showcase various upgraded combat equipment and new operational capabilities at the 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition in Beijing in December 2023. The exhibition will feature static displays and flight performances, highlighting the Air Force's advancements in training and combat readiness. Other military branches will also participate, demonstrating a comprehensive display of military capabilities.

The 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition will showcase active naval equipment from December 7 to 13, 2023, in Zhuhai. This marks the first inclusion of a maritime equipment display area at the event, highlighting China's naval capabilities. The exhibition will feature an extended duration and increased exhibition space, emphasizing a significant military presence.

The 16th China International Aviation and Aerospace Exhibition is being held in Beijing, showcasing over 3000 pieces of equipment, with approximately 10% being debut exhibits. The exhibition spans nearly 150,000 square meters indoors and 335,000 square meters outdoors, featuring participation from over 1100 companies across nearly 50 countries.

Anduril unveiled the Steelfin, a proposed family of surface-to-air interceptors designed to counter threats from drones, cruise missiles, and ballistic and hypersonic weapons. The specific details regarding deployment or operational status were not provided.

The U.S. Air Force is advancing the development of the Boeing F-47 stealth fighter, with its first flight scheduled for 2028, while China is already operating its sixth-generation jets. The Air Force is employing a new testing strategy that combines developmental and operational testing to expedite the F-47's production. Preparations for full-rate production are currently underway at Edwards Air Force Base in California.