Analysis & Reports

Russia continues to deploy T-72 tanks in the Ukraine War, leveraging their mass production and adaptability to counter Ukrainian anti-tank tactics. Since February 2022, the T-72 has proven effective on the battlefield, with over 25,000 units built and utilized by more than 40 countries. Despite vulnerabilities, the T-72's affordability and ease of maintenance make it a key asset for Russian forces.

The U.S. Army plans to award a contract for a self-propelled howitzer program by July 2024, with prototype proposals expected later this month. This initiative is part of the Army Transformation Initiative, aiming to replace the towed M777 howitzers. Competitors include Hanwha, Rheinmetall, and General Dynamics, among others.

Hanwha presented its vision for the future heavy formations of the Republic of Korea Army at the International Armoured Vehicles Conference in Farnborough. The ROK Army plans to deploy new unmanned and manned vehicles, including the K-NIFV and H-UGVs, starting around 2026. Significant changes to the mechanized infantry battalion structure will incorporate MUM-T capabilities, enhancing operational effectiveness against emerging threats.

The Pentagon has selected 25 companies to demonstrate unmanned one-way attack drones at Fort Benning, Georgia, from mid-February to March 2025. This event is part of the Drone Dominance Program, which aims to reform military procurement and enhance capabilities. The total expected orders for these drones could reach $150 million, with a directive for Army squads to be equipped with small drones by the end of fiscal 2026.

USS Preble neutralized four uncrewed aerial vehicles using the HELIOS laser during a counter-UAS exercise at sea last year, with the test publicly disclosed on May 21, 2020. The HELIOS system, integrated into the Aegis Combat System, represents a significant advancement in naval air defense capabilities, allowing for multi-target engagement. This test highlights the U.S. Navy's ongoing development of directed energy weapons as a supplement to traditional missile systems.

The U.S. Air Force's decision to limit F-22 Raptor production to 186 aircraft has significantly impacted its air dominance capabilities. The upcoming F-47 fighter is expected to replace the F-22, incorporating advanced technologies. The F-22, despite its age, remains a benchmark for stealth fighters, but the U.S. faces challenges from adversaries like China, which has developed the J-20. The strategic implications of these aircraft decisions are critical for future military operations.

Uzbekistan and the Philippines announced their acquisition of military aircraft from Embraer at the Singapore Airshow. Uzbekistan will receive two KC-390 airlifters, while the Philippines is acquiring a second batch of six A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft, bringing its total to 12. The KC-390 will enhance Uzbekistan's transport and humanitarian capabilities, with the first delivery expected later this year.

Picogrid secured a $9.3 million contract to integrate AI-driven counter-drone systems at U.S. Air Force bases. The software, named Legion, connects various military systems, significantly reducing integration time from weeks to less than a day. This contract follows the company's experience in rapidly integrating drone-detection systems for military units, showcasing advancements in military technology integration.

Raytheon completed a ballistic test of the US Army's next generation interceptor (NGSRI) missile, which is designed to replace the Stinger surface-to-air system. This test marks a significant step in the US Army's modernization of its air defense capabilities.

Tron Future unveiled an AI-assisted system for anti-armor rockets at the Singapore Airshow from February 3-8, 2023. The T-Scope is designed to convert unguided munitions into precision-guided weapons, enhancing training for military personnel. The company plans further testing to evaluate the system's performance in shallow water and aims for army certification by year-end.

Tron Future unveiled an AI-assisted guidance system for anti-armor rockets at the Singapore Airshow from February 3-8, 2023. The T-Scope is designed to convert unguided munitions into precision-guided weapons, enhancing training for military personnel. The company plans further testing to evaluate the system's performance in shallow water and aims for army certification by year-end.

The Leopard 2A8 tank is currently equipped with advanced features like the Trophy APS and superior digital systems, making it more capable than the M1A2 SEPv3. The M1E3 Abrams is still in development, focusing on a hybrid powerplant and unmanned turret, with expectations to surpass the Leopard 2A8 once fully operational. Both tanks are adapting to modern warfare challenges, including drone threats.

Lockheed Martin delivered the first Sentinel A4 radar to the U.S. Army, marking a significant milestone in the Army's air defense modernization efforts. This delivery is part of a total of 19 systems planned under Low-Rate Initial Production 2. The radar successfully completed Initial Operational Test and Evaluation Phase I, integrating with existing command and control systems to enhance defense against various aerial threats.

The U.S. Army is developing the M1E3 tank, while the British Army is advancing the Challenger 3, with both tanks undergoing modernization. The Challenger 3 is expected to achieve initial operational capacity by 2027, whereas the M1E3's timeline extends into the 2040s. Both tanks feature advanced firepower, survivability enhancements, and improved mobility, aiming to enhance NATO interoperability.

The U.S. Navy awarded an $86.2 million contract to L3Harris Technologies for the Precision Attack Strike Munition, enhancing the capabilities of AH-1Z Viper attack helicopters. This new weapon system is designed for extended-range strikes in contested environments and is expected to be delivered by the end of fiscal year 2027. The contract aims to support Marine Corps operations from both land and maritime locations.

GA-ASI is advancing the development of Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) tailored for military operations in the Indo-Pacific region. The MQ-9B SkyGuardian and SeaGuardian are being adopted by nations like Japan and India for ISR and precision strikes. The Mojave STOL platform enhances operational flexibility by enabling launches from various surfaces, while the Gambit Series focuses on collaborative combat capabilities. These innovations aim to address complex security challenges in the region.

Raytheon completed a ballistic test of the Next Generation Short Range Interceptor (NGSRI) on February 2, 2026, demonstrating its capability to track drone targets. The NGSRI is designed to replace the Stinger missile and can be launched from both shoulder-fired and vehicle-mounted systems. This test is part of a broader effort to develop a new air defense weapon for the U.S. Army, addressing evolving aerial threats.

Raytheon is developing a tethered drone system for ship defense, announced on February 2, 2026, under DARPA's Pulling Guard program. The system integrates electro-optical and infrared sensors to enhance situational awareness and protect commercial and naval vessels from unmanned surface vehicle threats. Initial phases will involve simulated engagements to assess performance, with future phases aimed at operational integration.

Five countries have expressed interest in purchasing JF-17 fighter jets from Pakistan, leading to concerns about production capacity. Countries such as Iraq, Bangladesh, and Indonesia have shown intent to buy, with Saudi Arabia potentially negotiating a $2 billion deal for 50 jets. Pakistan currently produces fewer than 20 jets annually, primarily for its own air force, raising questions about its ability to meet the increased demand.

Vietnam's Ministry of Defense signed a $250 million agreement with Rafael Advanced Defense Systems to acquire the Spike Firefly loitering munition and establish a local production facility. The Maoz drone, designed for ground forces, allows for controlled engagement and has an operational range of up to 5 kilometers. This deal signifies the strengthening defense ties between Vietnam and Israel.