Analysis & Reports

Pratt & Whitney was awarded a $54 million contract to perform engineering work on the F135 engine, which powers the F-35 Lightning II. The contract, part of a broader agreement with the U.S. Navy, aims to address ongoing technical issues and improve operational readiness. Work will be conducted at multiple locations, with the majority in East Hartford, Connecticut, and is expected to conclude by December 2028.

Saab and Embraer signed a Heads of Agreement to potentially produce 20 additional Gripen aircraft at Embraer's facility in Gavião Peixoto, Brazil, by 2026. This agreement aims to enhance production capacity to meet global demand for the Gripen fighter, reflecting a decade-long partnership between the two companies. The collaboration emphasizes increased industrial output and technological exchange.

Embraer and Saab signed a Heads of Agreement on July 21, 2026, to produce 20 additional Gripen aircraft at Embraer's facility in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo. This agreement strengthens their decade-long partnership and aims to enhance production capacity to meet global demand for the Gripen fighter. The collaboration reflects mutual trust and aims to support future business opportunities in the region.

The U.S. Army awarded a $447 million contract to TCOM LP for the production and support of Persistent Surveillance Systems-Tethered aerostats at Aberdeen Proving Ground, Maryland. This contract, expected to last until July 20, 2031, aims to enhance the Army's surveillance capabilities with aerostats that can operate continuously for weeks. TCOM's aerostats will provide 360-degree coverage and support military operations, reflecting the Army's commitment to maintaining and expanding its surveillance systems.

The U.S. military has conducted 66 airstrikes as part of Operation Southern Spear targeting narco-terrorists in the Caribbean Sea and Eastern Pacific Ocean since November 2025. Despite these efforts, drug trafficking remains prevalent, with increased cocaine seizures reported. The operation has resulted in significant costs and casualties, raising questions about its effectiveness and long-term impact on drug trafficking in the region.

Embraer signed an agreement with Anduril to integrate Barracuda-500M missiles onto the C-390 Millennium aircraft at the Farnborough Airshow. This marks the first offensive capability for the C-390, with interest from various countries in Europe and Asia. Embraer anticipates delivering the first two C-390s to the United Arab Emirates by 2028, while also expanding production of the Saab Gripen for international clients.

Saronic is constructing the $3 billion Port Alpha shipyard in Brownsville, Texas, expected to create 10,000 jobs and open in 2028. The facility will support the production of unmanned surface vessels, contributing to U.S. maritime capabilities amid a federal push for enhanced shipbuilding. Texas has provided financial incentives to facilitate the project, which is anticipated to have a significant economic impact.

The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) launched three attacks around Beni between July 12 and July 15, resulting in over 20 deaths. The assaults targeted civilians and Congolese soldiers, highlighting the ongoing violence in the region. Local sources report that the ADF's actions are part of a strategy to instill fear and disrupt communication between villages and the Congolese armed forces.

Marie DuboisFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

EDGE Group announced the acquisition of a 100% stake in Brazilian aerospace engineering firm AKAER on 16 July 2026. This acquisition aims to enhance EDGE's engineering capabilities and support the development of unmanned systems and advanced aerospace technologies. AKAER, based in São José dos Campos, has a strong reputation in the aerospace sector, contributing to various military and commercial programs.

Former federal employees criticized the impact of layoffs at the State Department and USAID on U.S. foreign policy, particularly regarding the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa and negotiations with Iran. They argued that the loss of experienced personnel has weakened the U.S. capacity to respond effectively to international crises. Lawmakers expressed concern that these cuts have damaged the country's global standing and diplomatic efforts.

Saronic announced plans to construct a new shipyard in Brownsville, Texas, starting later this year. The facility will cover 800 acres initially, with potential expansion to 4,000 acres, and aims to employ 10,000 workers over the next decade. It will focus on building both defense and commercial ships, including manned and unmanned vessels, with operations expected to begin in 2028.

Russia's submarine force remains a significant threat to NATO in 2026, with 8 Borei-class submarines and ongoing modernization efforts. The fleet faces challenges, including slow production rates and operational losses, but continues to operate effectively in strategic regions like the Arctic and North Atlantic. The introduction of new capabilities, such as the Khabarovsk carrier for Poseidon torpedoes, underscores its importance in Russia's military strategy.

Six F-39E Gripen aircraft from the Brazilian Air Force participated in the SALITRE 2026 exercise at Cerro Moreno Air Base in Antofagasta, Chile. The exercise involved over 1,500 military personnel and aircraft from five other countries, focusing on air defence, escort, and patrol missions. The Gripen fighters executed various air operations, employing advanced electronic warfare systems and tactical capabilities.

The U.S. Navy is conducting exercises in the Pacific Ocean to enhance strike group readiness. U.S. military operations have significantly degraded Iranian military capabilities, limiting its threat to regional neighbors. The U.S. is also initiating reconstruction efforts in the Greater Middle East and brokering diplomatic deals to stabilize the region. Trump's administration aims to form a coalition to ensure regional security and prevent the resurgence of Iranian influence.

MAURIC partnered with Couach to deliver 24 coastal surveillance patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie, with the contract awarded on 29 June 2026. The first unit is expected in 2029, and five vessels will be deployed overseas in French Guiana, Mayotte, and New Caledonia. These vessels will support maritime policing and environmental protection missions.

Peru signed a $1.5 billion deal for 12 new F-16 Fighting Falcons, choosing the aircraft over competitors like the Rafale and Gripen. The F-16, with over 4,600 units built and 3,100 still operational, has a production backlog of 110 jets and potential sales of 300 more. This highlights the ongoing demand for the F-16, which remains a key player in global air power.

On July 6, the California Air National Guard's 129th Rescue Wing parachuted four pararescuemen into the Pacific Ocean to assist a fisherman with traumatic injuries aboard the Azteca 5. The injured man was stabilized on the sister ship, Franz, as it headed towards Socorro Island for medical care. The operation involved the deployment of an HC-130J Combat King II aircraft to deliver medical supplies and personnel.

A shipment of at least two K2 Black Panther tanks and six K808 armored personnel carriers arrived at the Port of Callao, Peru, from South Korea. This delivery marks a significant advancement in military cooperation between the two nations, following a framework agreement signed in December 2025. The vehicles are intended for testing by Peruvian forces before finalizing a larger order.

Canada is reassessing its naval strategy regarding aircraft carriers, focusing on the Arctic and North Atlantic regions for defense. The Royal Canadian Navy previously operated carriers for anti-submarine warfare until 1970. Current discussions emphasize the need for submarines over carriers to enhance deterrence and operational capability in the Arctic. Negotiations for new submarines are underway, with a focus on Arctic patrol and NATO interoperability.

MAURIC partnered with Couach to construct 24 coastal surveillance patrol vessels for the Maritime Gendarmerie, with the first unit expected by 2029. The contract was awarded on 29 June 2026, and five vessels will be deployed overseas in French Guiana, Mayotte, and New Caledonia. The vessels will support maritime policing, counter-trafficking, and search and rescue missions.