Analysis & Reports

The U.S. has maintained a ban on the export of F-22 Raptors since the 1998 Obey amendment, despite interest from allies like Japan and Australia. The production of the F-22 was capped at 187 operational aircraft, with the final delivery occurring in 2012. The decision to restrict exports was driven by concerns over technology proliferation and the aircraft's advanced capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force B-2 Spirit stealth bombers conducted exercises at Whiteman Air Force Base on November 7, 2022, demonstrating their readiness for nuclear operations. The B-2 can carry up to 16 nuclear gravity bombs, including the B61-12 and B83-1, which offer various yield options. Its stealth capability allows for discreet approaches to targets, enhancing its role in military strategy.

The U.S. Air Force proposed the development of the FB-22, a stealth bomber variant of the F-22 Raptor, which would have cost $30 billion and featured a combat radius of 1,800 miles. The aircraft was designed to carry 15,000 pounds of weapons and could have enhanced U.S. strike capabilities in regional conflicts. However, it would have required significant trade-offs in terms of existing fighter numbers and long-range strike funding.

The US Army awarded contracts to five companies for the development of nuclear microreactor prototypes, with a total funding of $2.2 billion. The goal is to have at least one microreactor operational at an Army installation by September 30, 2028. Locations include Fort Bragg, Fort Campbell, Fort Hood, Fort Benning, and Fort Drum, with Radiant potentially receiving up to $750 million for its designs.

U.S. forces deployed over 600 M48 Patton tanks in Vietnam during the Vietnam War, utilizing them extensively against Soviet-supplied adversaries. The M48, equipped with a 105mm gun, demonstrated significant combat capabilities and was also supplied to the South Vietnamese Army. Israel later employed M48 tanks effectively in the Six-Day War and Yom Kippur War, showcasing their versatility in various conflicts.

The U.S. Army is seeking to procure 8,000 new short-range missiles annually, with initial deliveries expected within two years after contract award. The missiles must integrate with various platforms and operate under jamming conditions. Contractors are required to provide evidence of their production capabilities by the deadline of September 15.

The US Air Force awarded Boeing a contract valued at up to $131.2 billion for the production and sustainment of F-15 fighter jets, expected to conclude by August 2037. This contract aims to enhance capabilities for both the US and international partners, including countries like Israel and Japan. The deal reflects the Air Force's commitment to the F-15EX variant amid rising demand and ongoing upgrades.

In November 2011, the Royal Australian Air Force buried 23 F-111 fuselages in a coal mine at Swanbank, Queensland, due to asbestos concerns. The aircraft, which had been a vital part of Australia's air power for 37 years, were stripped of usable parts before burial. This disposal method was mandated by military agreements and aimed to eliminate health risks associated with the hazardous materials in the aircraft.

The F/A-18 Super Hornet has been a vital asset for the U.S. Navy, logging 12 million flight hours and playing crucial roles in various military operations, including the recent conflict in Iran. While it lacks the stealth capabilities of newer models like the F-35, it remains versatile and reliable, capable of conducting a wide range of missions. The aircraft's operational history includes significant engagements in the Global War on Terror and other conflicts.

The U.S. Navy is seeking companies to develop the Silent Anvil Air-Launched Torpedo (SAA-LT) at Kadena Air Base, Japan, as of June 5, 2026. This new torpedo is designed to be launched from aircraft and drones from a distance to target enemy submarines. Companies must respond by September 29, 2026, with a working prototype expected within 18 months of an agreement.

Admiral Darryl Caudle praised the efficiency of the Ford-class aircraft carrier's aircraft operations in Reno, Nevada, highlighting a 20%-30% improvement over Nimitz-class carriers. This statement coincides with President Trump's request for design changes to the Ford-class carriers, including a switch to steam catapults. Experts caution that these modifications could lead to significant redesign costs and impact operational capabilities.

The Marine Corps is enhancing air defenses at the squad level and fielding new counter-drone capabilities, including over 80 sets of organic counter small UAS systems and 400,000 anti-drone rounds for M4 and M27 rifles. The Corps is also developing tactics for small units to defend against drones and is introducing loitering munitions that enable strikes on targets up to 20 kilometers away. These initiatives are part of a broader transformation outlined in the Ground Combat Element 2040 blueprint.

Navier's N30 Quanta-D hydrofoil vessel completed military testing exercises with U.S. Department of War customers last week in the San Francisco Bay Area. The exercise, called Technical Experimentation 26-3, evaluated the vessel's performance in real mission scenarios. The Quanta-D is a hybrid diesel-electric hydrofoil designed to enhance operational efficiency and reduce fuel consumption.

Splash Industries introduced the Airstrike Pack, a new drone-launching module for its Typhoon uncrewed surface vessel, allowing for the deployment of aerial drones at the press of a button. The Typhoon, which has been developed for national security missions, has demonstrated capabilities including a speed of over 50 knots and an operational range exceeding 600 nautical miles. The module has already been tested during a force-on-force exercise, showcasing its potential for military applications.

ZeroUSV demonstrated the autonomous deployment of two Oshen C-Star drones from its Oceanus12 uncrewed surface vessel during trials in Plymouth, England. This marks a world first in launching multiple smaller marine drones as part of a coordinated mission. The Oceanus12 is designed to support various mission requirements and can track the performance of deployed assets, even in challenging communication environments.

Bangladesh is advancing the procurement of 20 J-10CE fighter jets, armed helicopters, and drone systems from China to modernize its air force. The announcement was made by Prime Minister's advisor Rahman on October 25, 2023, indicating that the deal could be finalized this year if funding is secured. This procurement represents a significant enhancement of Bangladesh's military capabilities and deepens its military ties with China.

The U.S. Army ordered an additional $51 million worth of Switchblade 600 loitering munitions from AeroVironment on November 4, 2024, as part of an ongoing procurement under a five-year contract. This order includes both Block 1 and Block 2 systems, enhancing the Army's capabilities in multi-domain operations. The Switchblade 600 systems are designed for contested environments and feature advanced technology for target engagement.

The U.S. Navy considered a navalized F-22 variant, the Sea Raptor, in the 1990s, estimating its cost at $66.1 billion. This aircraft would have enhanced air dominance capabilities but would have reduced fleet size and adaptability. The Super Hornet program, costing $3.3 billion, succeeded as a versatile substitute. The Navy's current plans include the F/A-XX to replace the Super Hornet by the 2030s.

The US Air Force awarded $766 million in contracts for the modernization of the B-52 Stratofortress radar and bomb racks. RTX's Raytheon received a $603 million contract for new radar systems, while Boeing was awarded $163 million for bomb rack upgrades. This modernization is part of a broader $21 billion effort to sustain the B-52 through the mid-century, despite facing budget increases and schedule delays.

Italy requested €8 billion in loans from the EU's SAFE defense funding program for defense procurement, scaling back from an initial €14.9 billion plan. This decision comes amid internal opposition within the Italian government regarding defense spending priorities. The funds are intended for purchasing 1,050 Lynx armored vehicles and 272 Panther tanks, although the defense minister indicated potential cost cuts and delays in the program.