Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Navy is pursuing long-range strike drones that can be launched from destroyers and other warships lacking large flight decks. This initiative aims to enhance naval combat capabilities amid concerns over limited aircraft carriers and missile systems. The solicitation specifies requirements for range, payload, and operational autonomy, with a proposal deadline of February 27.

The U.S. Marine Corps awarded a contract to Kodiak AI to integrate its autonomous driving system into Joint Light Tactical Vehicles (JLTVs) for the ROGUE Fires platform. This technology aims to enhance operational capabilities and reduce risks to Marines during missions. The ROGUE Fires platform will utilize the Navy Marine Expeditionary Ship Interdiction System, which includes anti-ship missile capabilities. Kodiak AI's technology has been tested in military contexts, showcasing its effectiveness in unstructured environments.

The U.S. Navy is advancing laser weapons technology, with Adm. Daryl Caudle advocating for a comprehensive directed energy strategy. The new Trump-class battleships are expected to enhance the Navy's capabilities, driving the integration of laser systems across the fleet. The destroyer Preble has already been equipped with the HELIOS system, and successful testing of laser systems occurred in 2025.

The Marine Corps is implementing safety-focused overhauls to its MV-22 Osprey aircraft following nearly 20 accidents in two years. Key changes include replacing gearbox components and updating engine compartments with new computers and sensors. The Osprey has been involved in multiple mishaps, prompting the service to address safety concerns and improve operational reliability.

The U.S. Coast Guard announced a contract for the production of five Arctic Security Cutters, expanding its icebreaker fleet to a total of 11. The cutters will be manufactured by Davie Defense, Inc. in Finland and the U.S., following previous contracts for six additional cutters. This initiative aims to enhance U.S. capabilities in the Arctic amid increasing geopolitical tensions.

Blue Water Autonomy is testing its 800-ton autonomous surface vessel, Liberty Class, in San Diego and plans to enter production later this year in Louisiana. The U.S. Navy is preparing to evaluate these unmanned vessels as part of its strategy to integrate robotic and autonomous systems into naval operations. Additionally, the Pentagon is reforming its arms export processes to improve defense cooperation with foreign partners.

The U.S. Army successfully conducted a flight test of the Extended-Range Guided Multiple-Launch Rocket System at White Sands Missile Range. This test demonstrates advancements in missile technology and capabilities.

Thermobaric weapons have been utilized by the U.S., Russia, and Israel in various conflicts, including recent reports of their use in Gaza. These weapons, known for their devastating effects, have evolved from World War II designs to modern munitions like the GBU-43/B MOAB. The U.S. military has employed them in significant battles, while allegations of their use against civilian populations raise concerns about potential war crimes.

The Defense Innovation Unit is seeking firms to develop a drone capable of carrying fighter-sized munitions for long-range maritime strikes, with a range of 1400 nautical miles. This initiative addresses the growing threat of anti-ship weapons and the limitations of current naval strike capabilities. The drone must operate with minimal infrastructure and be ready for prototyping within a year, with responses due by February 27, 2023.

China is developing the JH-XX stealth bomber, aimed at penetrating air defenses to strike high-value targets in Guam and Japan. Recent intelligence from February 2026 indicates that the aircraft features a tailless, three-engine design, although it is still in the testing phase and not yet operational. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is pursuing this capability to enhance its regional strike potential.

China is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which is anticipated to have intercontinental capabilities. However, U.S. Air Force General Stephen Davis has expressed skepticism about its current progress, labeling China's bomber force as primarily regional. The H-20 program was first acknowledged in 2016, and current capabilities rely on upgraded H-6 variants.

Raytheon successfully tested the Coyote Block 3NK, a non-kinetic counter-drone system designed to defeat drone swarms while minimizing collateral damage. This system can be recalled and redeployed after missions and is intended for use in urban environments. Raytheon has also received a major contract under the U.S. Army's LIDS program to enhance its counter-drone capabilities.

Inguar Defence developed a new pickup variant of the Inguar-3 armored vehicle specifically for UAV crews, complying with operational requirements from Lasar's Group. This vehicle, part of the MRAP class, is designed to enhance support for drone operations and has received positive feedback from the Armed Forces of Ukraine. It features a reinforced cab and is capable of withstanding various threats, reflecting the increasing role of unmanned systems in military operations.

John Cockerill Defense showcased the Cockerill Light Weapon Station (CLWS) on the Arquus MAV’RX 4×4 armored vehicle at the World Defense Show in Riyadh. The CLWS is designed for light armored vehicles, providing medium-caliber firepower and remote operation capabilities. It can be equipped with various armaments, including a 12.7 mm heavy machine gun and a 25 mm cannon, making it suitable for reconnaissance and patrol missions.

Avon Protection launched the EXOSKIN-S2 high-performance CBRN protective suit in Cadillac on 11th February 2026. This suit is designed for military and first responder use, providing enhanced protection against chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats. It features an activated carbon fabric inner layer and is compatible with other Avon protective equipment, allowing for extended use in hazardous environments.

The U.S. Navy plans to develop the Trump-class battleships to overcome limitations of current destroyers, with construction expected to start in the early 2030s. Vice Adm. Brendan McLane emphasized the need for a larger hull to accommodate advanced weapon systems, including hypersonic missiles. The Navy anticipates a total of 20 to 25 ships, with initial costs estimated at nearly $21 billion for the first battleship.

The U.S. Army is transitioning from the M2 Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicle to the XM30 Mechanized Infantry Combat Vehicle due to the Bradley's aging performance. The XM30, expected to be fielded by 2029, features advanced capabilities such as a 50-mm cannon and hybrid propulsion. This transition is deemed critical for future near-peer conflicts, particularly in the context of ongoing military operations in Ukraine.

Russia's S-500 missile system, designed to target stealth aircraft like the F-22 and F-35, has underperformed in combat, failing to intercept missiles in Crimea and sustaining damage from a Ukrainian drone. The system's capabilities are being marketed to foreign buyers, but its battlefield performance raises doubts about its effectiveness.

The U.S. Marine Corps is advancing plans to field a drone wingman by 2026, focusing on the MUX TACAIR program to enhance the F-35's capabilities. The YFQ-42A drone has been selected for integration, with a task force established to streamline the program's development. Key upcoming milestones include testing and the development of electronic warfare capabilities at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona.

The U.S. Marine Corps is advancing plans to field a drone wingman by 2026, focusing on the MUX TACAIR program to enhance the F-35's capabilities. The YFQ-42A drone has been selected for integration, with a task force established to streamline the development process. Key upcoming milestones include testing and the development of electronic warfare capabilities at Marine Corps Air Station Yuma, Arizona.