Analysis & Reports

The Royal Canadian Air Force received its first two CF-35A stealth fighters at Luke Air Force Base in October 2026. These jets will be used to establish a training squadron for Canadian pilots, with plans to base eight F-35s at Luke during 2026 and 2027. The first operational aircraft are expected to arrive at Cold Lake, Alberta, in 2028, with initial operational capability planned for 2029.

Iran has developed contingency plans to target undersea communications cables in the Gulf if attacked by the U.S. and Israel. This strategic move complicates U.S. military options and increases costs for Gulf states, as it signals potential disruption to critical infrastructure. The situation reflects ongoing tensions and military considerations in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Oct 23 2026Loading...

The Space Force awarded six operational contracts worth $1.37 million to firms for civil reserve support in space monitoring in Washington in 2023. This initiative aims to enhance military demand for satellite-derived capabilities, although it faces unresolved legal issues regarding service rights during conflicts. The program is expected to expand to more companies and mission areas.

The U.S. Navy is modernizing its technology acquisition framework and increasing pilot programs for technology systems. During the SAP Public Sector Summit on October 14, 2023, Navy CTO Justin Fanelli highlighted the Navy's successful strategies that other agencies are now adopting. The Navy's Project Dynamis aims to enhance operational capabilities, while Operation Cattle Drive seeks to retire outdated IT systems. The Navy is also collaborating with private sector partners to expand its technology pilots.

On October 13, the U.S. Navy celebrated its 251st anniversary while President Trump announced the opening of a new shipyard in Baltimore to revive America's maritime industry. The U.S. currently ranks 14th in global shipbuilding and operates only 190 flagged ships. Efforts include the $3 billion Port Alpha project and partnerships with allies to enhance shipbuilding capacity and reduce reliance on China. The FLEETS Now Act aims to establish a maritime coalition to support these initiatives.

Ret. Army Gen. David Petraeus stated that unmanned systems are responsible for over 90% of Russian casualties in Ukraine, highlighting the urgent need for NATO, including the U.S., to adapt military strategies and procurement processes to modern warfare. He emphasized the establishment of a new Autonomous Warfare Command and the importance of developing more unmanned systems, as Ukraine continues to leverage these technologies against a larger adversary. Petraeus warned that failure to adapt could leave NATO underprepared for future conflicts.

Chris Cathers, a former Green Beret, connected with actor Chris Pratt during the filming of 'The Terminal List' and took a photo with him shortly before his death from cancer. Cathers launched the Brothers Keeper Veteran Foundation to support veterans in mental crisis, emphasizing the importance of connection. He passed away in February 2026 after a long battle with cancer, leaving a legacy of advocacy for veterans.

HD Hyundai and Kiewit Maritime Co. announced plans to establish a new shipyard in the United States, aiming to produce US Navy auxiliary and commercial vessels. Construction is scheduled to begin in 2027, with full operations expected by 2029, creating approximately 3,000 full-time jobs. This joint venture is part of South Korea's broader investment strategy in US projects, including significant funding for shipbuilding.

The Military Spouse Commission proposed cutting or eliminating tolls for service members commuting to MacDill Air Force Base in Florida. Troops at the base currently benefit from a 50% reduction in toll fees, saving them $1,500 annually. The commission aims to use this as a template for similar initiatives at other military bases across the U.S. The Pentagon has not commented on the proposal's potential expansion.

Natilus secured a $3.5 million contract from the Air Force to develop its blended wing body aircraft, the KONA, aimed at military cargo transport. The aircraft is designed for sub-tactical lift missions in the Indo-Pacific and features an 85-foot wingspan. Production is planned at five aircraft per month, with a first flight expected by late next year or early 2028.

Texas startup Warhound plans to clone and gene-edit military dogs for the U.S. military, law enforcement, and emergency responders. The initiative, backed by a $200 million seed round, aims to address supply issues in the military's working dog program. The first group of gene-edited dogs is expected to be born early next year, with service entry anticipated in about two years. Warhound's approach includes protective gear and health-focused gene edits to enhance the dogs' capabilities.

The Pentagon announced plans to purchase at least 850 F-35 fighter jets from Lockheed Martin over the next decade, marking the largest contract in the program's history. This preliminary agreement, which requires Congressional authorization for funding, includes Lockheed Martin's commitment of at least $7 billion to support the project. The total cost of the agreement is estimated to be at least $78 billion, pending Congressional approval.

The U.S. Air Force confirmed that 187 F-22 Raptors were built before production ceased in 2009. A 2016 study indicated that restarting production would incur $9.869 billion in start-up costs, with unit costs estimated between $206 million and $216 million. Instead of resuming F-22 production, the Air Force plans to enhance existing aircraft and integrate new weapons like the AIM-260 missile.

The Pentagon plans to expand military facilities in Greenland next year to support the deployment of transport and fighter aircraft and accommodate more troops. The expansion includes upgrades to airports in Mestersvig and Narsarsuaq, with a focus on enhancing capabilities for U.S. military operations. An agreement was signed on September 22 to establish new defense areas in Greenland.

The U.S. Space Force has prioritized cislunar space as a warfighting domain, planning to issue requests for information for commercial technology and AI software to enhance autonomous operations between Earth and the Moon. This strategic shift is in response to China's advancements in the area, with capabilities expected to be operational by the end of fiscal year 2029.

President Trump suggested a deal to end the Ukraine war during a rally in Kansas on October 19, 2026, criticizing Ukrainian President Zelensky's negotiation skills. The White House subsequently cut intelligence sharing with Ukraine, impacting civilian protection against strikes. Zelensky expressed a willingness to freeze the war, while UNHCR continues to operate on the frontlines in Ukraine.

In April 1949, the U.S. Navy laid the keel for the USS United States, a 65,000-ton aircraft carrier intended to launch nuclear bombers. Five days later, Secretary of Defense Louis Johnson canceled the project, prompting Navy Secretary John L. Sullivan to resign and leading to a revolt among admirals against the decision. This conflict highlighted the rivalry between the Navy and the Air Force over military priorities and funding.

The Missile Defense Agency (MDA) awarded a $75 million contract to Long Wall for the testing of its Cyclops low-cost interceptor in Washington. This interceptor is designed to strike enemy missiles mid-flight and can be launched from various platforms. Long Wall, established in February 2025, will invest an additional $75 million in the development of Cyclops.

Lockheed Martin and the U.S. Department of War finalized a framework for a 10-year deal to produce 850 F-35 aircraft, maintaining a production rate of 156 jets annually. This agreement includes spare parts and modification kits, aiming to enhance logistics and readiness across the fleet. The U.S. plans to acquire a total of 2,456 F-35s, supporting significant economic activity and job creation.

The report emphasizes the importance of preserving U.S. Navy battleships as museum ships, highlighting their historical significance and the logistical challenges in maintaining them. Key locations mentioned include Pearl Harbor and Norfolk, where notable ships like the USS Missouri and USS Wisconsin are located. The discussion also touches on the need for funding and manpower to ensure these vessels remain part of America's naval heritage.