Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force faces significant challenges in producing the F-47 stealth fighter, with costs projected at $300 million per unit and a desired fleet size of 185 to 200. As China continues to expand its advanced aircraft capabilities, the U.S. risks being outmatched in a potential conflict. The Air Force is considering the use of drones to enhance its operational capacity, but production limitations may hinder its effectiveness against China's growing military strength.

The U.S. military demonstrated advanced ship-sinking capabilities during multinational naval exercises in the Pacific from June 24 to July 31, 2026. A B-2 bomber successfully launched an LRASM missile at a decommissioned ship during Valiant Shield, while RIMPAC saw the sinking of two ships using various missile systems. The exercises involved collaboration with allied forces from Japan, Canada, New Zealand, and Australia, focusing on joint operational proficiency and the use of Unmanned Surface Vessels.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking a contractor to maintain and update the software for the AC-130J Ghostrider's targeting system at Nellis Air Force Base, Nevada. A notice posted on August 25, 2024, outlines the need for support on the Brimstone Software Suite, which is critical for the aircraft's operations. L3Harris ForceX Inc. is currently the sole provider of this software, and the Air Force is exploring options for additional contractors to ensure system reliability and updates.

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor, renowned for its advanced weaponry and stealth, continues to be a leading fighter jet as of 2022. It is equipped with six AIM-120 AMRAAM missiles, two AIM-9 Sidewinders, and a 20mm cannon, allowing for effective combat in both beyond visual range and close-range scenarios. Additionally, the development of the AIM-260 missile aims to further enhance its capabilities against advanced enemy threats.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal toured the SkyFall drone factory in Kyiv, highlighting the production of thousands of attack drones daily. He praised the company's innovative technology, which is crucial for Ukraine's defense against Russia. The visit reflects increasing bipartisan support in the U.S. Congress for collaboration on drone technology with Ukraine.

In March 2025, President Trump announced the awarding of a contract to Boeing for the F-47 NGAD stealth fighter, with plans for at least 185 units. The aircraft is designed for long-range operations and is set to fly for the first time in 2028. However, there is significant debate within the U.S. Air Force regarding whether this number is adequate for future air superiority needs, with some experts recommending an increase to 300 aircraft to ensure effective campaign capabilities.

Chinese engineers at the Chengdu Aircraft Research and Design Institute caution against over-reliance on AI in the design of the J-36 fighter jet. They highlight the risk of 'AI hallucinations' that could produce inaccurate specifications, potentially leading to strategic miscalculations. The warnings were published in a paper on June 20, 2023, emphasizing the importance of validated data in AI modeling for military applications.

Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Pakistan signed a trilateral defense pact on August 7, 2023, aimed at enhancing defense cooperation and arms sales, particularly from Turkey to Saudi Arabia. The agreement includes joint investment in defense industries and technology transfer, transforming the relationship into a defense-industrial partnership. This pact is expected to facilitate the export of Turkish defense systems, including the KAAN fighter jet and various air defense systems, while strengthening collective deterrence against aggression.

Poland, Norway, Lithuania, and Latvia signed a framework agreement to purchase Piorun man-portable air defense systems from PGZ in Warsaw. The deal, valued at over 8 billion zloty ($2.2 billion), includes several thousand missiles and several hundred launch units, with deliveries expected by 2030. More than 80% of the equipment will be supplied to the Polish military, marking a significant collaboration among European allies in defense procurement.

The US Navy began flight-testing the AIM-424 Malice missile, capable of engaging targets from over 287.7 miles, for its F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and F-35C Lightning fighters. This development follows the introduction of the AIM-174B Gunslinger and aims to counter China's advanced missile systems. The testing occurred during the Tailhook Symposium in Reno and is part of a broader strategy to enhance air-to-air combat capabilities.

Britain signed a defense partnership with Ukraine in 2026 to access battlefield AI technology and data, enhancing military capabilities. This agreement allows Britain to utilize Ukraine's extensive military dataset, which includes real-time operational data from various engagements. The partnership aims to expedite the development and deployment of AI-enabled military systems, reflecting a significant shift in NATO's approach to defense technology and cooperation.

Alexandra ReevesTue Aug 25 2026Loading...

China is actively constructing the Type 004 aircraft carrier, which is expected to be its first nuclear-powered carrier. The carrier will utilize electromagnetic catapults for aircraft launch and is anticipated to host advanced aircraft like the J-35 stealth fighter. The People's Liberation Army Navy aims to expand its fleet significantly by 2035, enhancing its naval capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.

Austria's Bundesheer received its first modernized Ulan infantry fighting vehicle and Leopard 2A4 tank during a handover ceremony in Großmittel on August 25, 2023. The modernization is part of the Aufbauplan ÖBH 2032+ and includes upgrades to optics, electronics, and drivetrain components. A total of 112 Ulan vehicles are being modernized at a cost of 460 million euros, while 58 Leopard tanks are also undergoing upgrades.

The F-22 Raptor, operated by the U.S. Air Force, demonstrated its capabilities during the Gulf Coast Salute Air Show in Panama City Beach, Florida, on May 4, 2024. The aircraft, known for its stealth and advanced weaponry, can reach speeds of Mach 2.25 and carries missiles like the AIM-120 AMRAAM and AIM-9X Sidewinder. Additionally, the F-47 is expected to replace the F-22 in the coming decade, promising enhanced stealth and operational capabilities.

Italy is acquiring 5,031 American APKWS-II kits to enhance its Eurofighter jets' capabilities against drones by 2026. This decision follows U.S. State Department approval and reflects a strategic shift towards American defense solutions amid rising drone threats. The cost-effectiveness of using APKWS over traditional missiles like AMRAAM is a key factor in this procurement.

Dr. Klaus WeberTue Aug 25 2026Loading...

Ukraine's FP-7 ballistic missile is set to be ready for combat by the end of September 2026, providing a new offensive capability against Russian missile threats. The missile can strike targets up to 186 miles away and is part of Ukraine's strategy to enhance its military deterrence. Additionally, the FP-9 missile is expected to debut by late autumn 2026, further strengthening Ukraine's offensive options.

The Russian Baltic Fleet fitted several warships with improvised netting and camouflage to protect against drone strikes following a confirmed attack on the corvette Boikiy at Kronstadt on June 3. The measures include various visual countermeasures and are not part of a standardized protection program. This incident marks the first confirmed Ukrainian drone strike on a Baltic Fleet installation.

Ursa Major announced plans to go public in a $2.3 billion deal with Bleichroeder Acquisition Corp. in Washington, expected to close in the first quarter of 2027. The company specializes in hypersonics and solid rocket motors, having raised over $380 million in private capital and received a $10 million award from the US Navy for its MK 104 solid rocket motor. Ursa Major also unveiled a new hypersonic missile system named HAVOC.

UK Prime Minister Andy Burnham approved the sharing of classified blueprints for SCALP missiles with Ukraine during his visit to Kyiv. This decision supports the establishment of local assembly lines for the missiles in Ukraine. The UK government reaffirmed its commitment to Ukraine's defense against Russia, emphasizing the importance of military support and technology sharing among allies.

Yevgeny Grigoryev, the general director of the TulaDrone Research and Production Center, was arrested on August 14, 2023, in Tula on fraud charges. His arrest was not known to employees until it became public, and he had not been present at work since that date. The TulaDrone center is part of Russia's national drone development initiative, which has seen significant investment.