Analysis & Reports

U.S. lawmakers engaged in a simulation of a Taiwan crisis in Summer 2027, focusing on AI-enabled cyberattacks targeting transportation and logistics networks. The exercise revealed vulnerabilities in U.S. infrastructure and highlighted the potential for Chinese hackers to disrupt military deployments. Participants discussed strategies for defending critical networks and the implications of AI in cyber warfare.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure on July 22, 2023, as tensions escalated in the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea. The Houthis announced a blockade against Saudi shipping, leading to significant disruptions in commercial vessel traffic. Vessel tracking data indicated a sharp decline in crossings through both the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Strait, with multiple tankers altering their routes due to security concerns.

The U.S. Army is addressing supply chain bottlenecks affecting the production of the M1 Abrams tank engine, the AGT1500, through collaboration with industry. An event called the 'TIGER hackathon' was held on July 14, 2023, to identify solutions and second sources for critical components. The Army has identified 166 components impacting readiness and aims to have vendors contracted by October 1, 2023.

The U.S. Navy is advancing plans to construct a new Multi-Mission Dry Dock at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard in Bremerton, Washington, to service aircraft carriers. This initiative, part of a $30 billion contract, aims to enhance the Navy's capacity for depot-level maintenance on Ford-class carriers in the Pacific Northwest. The project includes multiple task orders for dredging, demolition, and infrastructure improvements.

Boeing is planning to establish multiple production facilities for the MQ-28 Ghost Bat drone in various countries to meet local demands. This initiative is driven by the need for sovereign military capabilities, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine. Germany is expected to be the first European operator of the drone by 2029, with Hensoldt joining the supplier base to support this effort.

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) approved a significant overhaul of its satellite spectrum licensing process in Washington today. This reform aims to streamline licensing for military, civil, and commercial operators, reducing regulatory burdens and enhancing efficiency. The changes include a new 'licensing assembly line' and a requirement for satellite operators to share space situational awareness data to promote safety.

The Space Force increased its contract ceiling by $11.4 billion to fund an additional 110 launches, raising the total expected missions to 170 over the next decade. This adjustment reflects the growing demand for critical capabilities in space. The indefinite delivery/indefinite quantity contract, originally set at $5.6 billion, now totals $17 billion and includes a five-year base period with an option for an additional five years. SpaceX has secured most of the launch orders under this program.

Ukrainian drone strikes targeted logistics hubs owned by Wildberries in Krasnodar and Stavropol, injuring ten people. This follows earlier attacks on Tambov and Elektrostal, resulting in eight deaths and 62 injuries. President Zelensky described the strikes as 'long-range sanctions' aimed at disrupting supplies to the Russian military. Additionally, Maj. Gen. Mykhailo Drapatyi was appointed as the new commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces.

Team Tempest partners announced significant advancements in the UK's Future Combat Air System, including the assembly of the Combat Air Demonstrator and modifications to the Excalibur Flight Test Aircraft. These developments aim to enhance the UK's sovereign combat air capabilities and support the Global Combat Air Programme. The partnership involves the UK Ministry of Defence and key industry players, focusing on innovation and technological expertise.

Lockheed Martin and Leonardo signed an agreement on July 22, 2026, to enhance maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for the C-130J Super Hercules airlifters across Europe, the Middle East, and Northern Africa. This partnership aims to improve MRO capabilities and efficiency for over 570 C-130Js delivered to 27 countries, strengthening NATO's operational readiness. The agreement builds on a 20-year relationship between the two companies.

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.

Leonardo and Baykar announced the full operational readiness of their LBA Systems Joint Venture in Farnborough on 21 July 2026. The JV focuses on the development and production of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) and is headquartered in Italy. It combines Leonardo's advanced electronics and certification capabilities with Baykar's UAS design and manufacturing expertise. The product range includes several models, with the first batch of Astore Levante UAS already in production.

The U.S. Marine Corps announced that enlisted Marines stationed in the United States will not receive single barracks rooms, while new barracks in Okinawa, Japan, will provide private rooms for approximately 1,100 Marines. This decision is part of a shared-room model aimed at fostering camaraderie and leadership. The new facilities, funded by the Japanese government, are set to open in August 2023, replacing older barracks on Camp Hansen.

On July 18, a mixed convoy of Malian Armed Forces and Africa Corps was ambushed in Anefis, resulting in the deaths of at least 50 soldiers. The attack was claimed by the Front de libération de l'Azawad (FLA) and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), indicating a tactical alliance against the Malian forces. Africa Corps subsequently conducted drone strikes against the assailants, underscoring the ongoing military challenges in the region.

Marie DuboisWed Jul 22 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army awarded a $98.7 million contract modification to AM General for Humvee production, increasing the total contract value to over $3.2 billion. This contract is part of an indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity agreement expected to last until August 28, 2027. Despite plans to transition to the Joint Light Tactical Vehicle, production issues have led to continued demand for Humvees, including foreign military sales.

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.

Ukrainian forces launched over 400 drones against Moscow and surrounding areas from July 19 to 20, 2023, marking one of the largest attacks to date. Concurrently, Russian forces executed a significant missile strike on Kyiv, firing approximately 40 ballistic missiles targeting military supplies. Both sides are engaged in extensive strikes against each other's logistics and industrial facilities, aiming to disrupt military operations and supply chains.

Ukrainian forces targeted and reported damage to 13 Russian vessels in the Black and Azov Seas on July 21-22, 2026. The operation included 10 cargo ships, 2 tugboats, and 1 tanker, indicating a strategic shift in Ukraine's naval engagement. This campaign aims to disrupt Russian maritime logistics, highlighting vulnerabilities in their supply chain.

Dmitri VolkovWed Jul 22 2026Loading...

A new batch of 60 Stryker armored vehicles has arrived in Thailand for the Royal Thai Army under the Excess Defense Articles program. This delivery follows a previous transfer of Stryker vehicles and is part of a broader effort to enhance Thailand's military capabilities amid regional tensions. The vehicles are equipped with advanced features for improved operational effectiveness.