Analysis & Reports

In 2025, Belarus adopted 16 new military products, indicating a shift towards deeper integration with the Russian defense industry. The Belarusian defense sector is increasingly reliant on foreign components, particularly from North Korea and China, raising concerns about its technological independence. The export of military products to 65 countries suggests Belarus is acting as an intermediary for Russian arms, further complicating its position amid sanctions.

Dmitri VolkovSat Feb 07 2026Loading...

Japan's Ministry of Defense contracted Mitsubishi Electric for a 123.5 billion yen satellite communication system, set to operate by March 2030, to enhance communication for the Self-Defense Forces in the southwestern islands. The current reliance on a single satellite poses vulnerabilities, especially against potential Chinese attacks. The report advocates for exploring integration with U.S. military communication systems to mitigate risks.

Tanaka TakashiSat Feb 07 2026Loading...

The Saab JAS 39 Gripen E is a modern fighter aircraft developed by Sweden, emphasizing survivability and operational flexibility. It features advanced sensors and electronic warfare capabilities, allowing it to operate from short runways and austere environments. The Gripen E is designed for rapid turnaround and low operating costs, making it suitable for modern air combat scenarios. It is compatible with various Western munitions, enhancing its multirole capabilities.

The U.S. Marine Corps developed and approved the HANX, a 3D-printed drone, at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. This drone, created by Sgt. Henry David Volpe, is compliant with the National Defense Authorization Act and can be modified for various military missions. It features a simple design that allows for easy assembly and is intended for use by Marines.

The U.S. Marine Corps developed and approved the HANX, a 3D-printed drone, at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. This drone, created by Sgt. Henry David Volpe, is compliant with the National Defense Authorization Act and is designed for easy assembly and modification for various military missions. It represents a significant advancement in military drone technology, allowing for cost-effective and versatile applications in the field.

The U.S. Air Force is developing the F-47 NGAD stealth fighter, expected to reach speeds of Mach 2+ and serve as a command node for autonomous drones. With advanced stealth capabilities, the aircraft aims to penetrate contested airspace and suppress enemy defenses. The production of 185 units is planned by 2029, with an estimated cost of $300 million per unit. The F-47's design emphasizes survivability and advanced networking features.

China has unveiled the J-35A stealth fighter, which is designed to have significant advantages in detection and strike capabilities, potentially rivaling the U.S. F-35. The J-35A features a twin-engine layout and is reported to possess advanced sensing and targeting systems. This development raises concerns regarding its operational effectiveness against U.S. stealth fighters.

The U.S. Navy is planning to develop the Trump-class battleship BBG(X), with the lead ship USS Defiant projected to displace 39,000 tons. Cost estimates for the lead vessel range from $10 billion to $22 billion, with construction set to begin in 2030. A significant feature of this class is the electromagnetic railgun, which has faced challenges in past Navy experiments.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $22.6 million contract to Gentex Corporation for over 5,000 Next-Generation Fixed Wing Helmet systems. These helmets will replace older models and enhance pilot safety and combat effectiveness by reducing weight and improving stability during high G-forces. The modular design allows for future upgrades to digital cockpit technology.

Electro Optic Systems (EOS) opened a new manufacturing and integration facility in Singapore on February 6, 2026, to produce high-energy laser weapon systems for customers in Asia and Europe. This facility will serve as EOS' primary regional center for directed-energy capabilities, supporting contracts with the Netherlands and South Korea. The hub aims to enhance supply chain resilience and provide localized support for air defense systems.

China's submarine force is expanding and modernizing, posing a significant challenge to U.S. naval dominance. The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) operates a diverse fleet of submarines, including SSBNs and SSNs, with advancements in domestic designs. However, U.S. industrial delays and strategic assessments indicate potential vulnerabilities in maintaining undersea primacy. Additionally, China's ambitions in the Arctic raise further concerns regarding its military capabilities.

Egypt signed a $130 million contract to acquire the Turkish-developed TOLGA short-range air defense system. The TOLGA system is designed to counter unmanned aerial vehicles and tactical drones, featuring modular architecture for flexible integration. This acquisition reflects Egypt's efforts to enhance its air defense capabilities against low-cost aerial threats.

U&C UAS signed a contract with TUNGA Aerospace Industries Private Limited in India on February 3, 2026, to supply unmanned aerial systems and provide training for operators. This agreement marks U&C UAS's first entry into the Asian market and signifies a new phase in defense cooperation between Europe and India, focusing on the production of reconnaissance drones and loitering munitions.

The U.S. Navy is considering converting the USS Nimitz into a drone mothership to address a capability gap as it approaches decommissioning. This transformation would involve redesigning the carrier to support unmanned aerial and underwater vehicles, integrating advanced AI systems for battle management, and reducing crew size. The proposal aims to enhance naval operations and maintain strategic advantages in modern warfare.

China showcased the Luan Niao mothership concept, designed to deploy 88 Xuan Nu autonomous fighter drones and hyper-ballistic missiles. This mothership is proposed to operate at the edge of space, with dimensions significantly larger than any existing aircraft. Analysts regard this concept as aspirational, primarily serving as a recruitment and messaging tool rather than an immediate military capability.

Ukraine received 49 M1A1 Abrams tanks from Australia in early 2026 amid concerns from U.S. officials about their maintenance and effectiveness on the battlefield. The tanks face challenges from modern warfare tactics, including drone surveillance and precision artillery strikes, leading to significant losses. The U.S. expressed reluctance to approve the donation due to these operational concerns.

The YF-23 Black Widow II, a tech demonstrator for the U.S. Air Force's Advanced Tactical Fighter program in the 1990s, showcased advanced stealth and supercruise capabilities. Despite its advantages, the Air Force selected the YF-22 due to concerns over program risk and a preference for maneuverability. The YF-23 has since gained a following for its innovative design and performance features.

Defense firms from around the world are set to showcase their products at the World Defense Show in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in 2026. Saudi Arabian Military Industries (SAMI) will present over 60 national products, while more than 50 Chinese defense firms, including CATIC and NORINCO, will also participate. Russian state-owned Rosoboronexport will debut its multiple rocket launcher Sarma, and Western companies like Lockheed Martin and Boeing will highlight their advanced military equipment.

Shield AI integrated its AI-enabled software into Singaporean military applications to enhance drone swarm coordination. On February 5, 2025, Shield AI and ST Engineering signed a memorandum of understanding at the Singapore Airshow. The Singapore Armed Forces utilized over 100 drones during Exercise Wallaby, marking a significant operational milestone.

Hyundai Rotem is developing the K3 main battle tank in South Korea, featuring hydrogen power and stealth technology. The tank will include a 130mm smoothbore main gun, an AI-enabled fire-control system, and advanced defensive measures. Production is anticipated to start by 2040, aiming to enhance the Republic of Korea Army's capabilities against potential threats.