Analysis & Reports

Major military installations in the United States lack protection from drone attacks due to bureaucratic confusion over coverage policies. The Department of Defense Inspector General's report revealed that training bases, such as Luke Air Force Base, are not designated for counter-drone defenses. In 2024, drone incursions were reported at several sites, prompting the establishment of a new task force to address these vulnerabilities and improve C-UAS capabilities.

Major military installations in the United States lack protection from drone attacks due to bureaucratic confusion regarding coverage policies. The Department of Defense Inspector General's report revealed that critical sites, including Luke Air Force Base, are not designated for counter-drone defenses. This vulnerability has raised concerns following multiple drone incursions at various installations, highlighting the need for clearer policies and operational approvals for counter-unmanned aerial systems.

Chinese researchers at the China Aerodynamics Research and Development Centre claimed to have identified aerodynamic and stability limitations in the U.S. Air Force's B-21 Raider using the PADJ-X software. The study, published in 2023, suggests a 15% increase in lift-to-drag ratio but is based on theoretical models rather than classified data. The B-21 Raider is currently undergoing flight testing at Edwards Air Force Base.

The Su-35 fighter, developed from the Su-27 lineage, is currently in service with the Russian Air Force. It is characterized by strong kinematics and heavy weapon carriage but suffers from significant limitations, including a large radar signature and lack of stealth. The aircraft's operational effectiveness is constrained by modern surface-to-air missile threats and the challenges faced by the Russian aerospace industry due to sanctions. The Su-35 is best suited for homeland defense and air policing roles, reflecting Russia's reliance on legacy designs.

Russia is promoting the MiG-41 as a next-generation interceptor capable of Mach 4-5 speeds and hypersonic missile interception. However, significant technical challenges and industrial constraints raise doubts about its viability. No prototypes have been confirmed, and the program appears more as a strategic signaling exercise than a credible military development.

The U.S. Air Force is reassessing its planned acquisition of 100 B-21 Raiders, recognizing that this number may be inadequate for potential conflicts with China and Russia by 2027. Experts suggest increasing the fleet to 200-250 bombers to ensure effective deterrence and operational capability. The B-21 is designed to operate in high-threat environments and integrate with other military assets.

North Korea conducted a test firing of a new large-caliber rocket artillery system on January 27, with Kim Jong-un observing the event. Four rockets successfully struck a target located 358.5 km from the launch site. Kim expressed satisfaction with the results, indicating that the upcoming 9th Congress of the Workers' Party will outline plans to enhance the country's nuclear deterrent capabilities.

The U.S. Navy is urged to accelerate the F/A-XX stealth fighter program to address the growing threat from advanced Iranian air defenses. Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Daryl Caudle emphasized the need for enhanced capabilities, including stealth and electronic warfare, to ensure operational effectiveness in the future. A recent defense spending bill allocates $897 million for the program, highlighting its importance amid evolving regional threats.

The U.S. Coast Guard has begun training personnel on Jet Skis for border security operations off the coast of San Diego, California, as part of its Force Design 2028 initiative. This new tool aims to enhance the Coast Guard's capabilities in securing the U.S.-Mexico border. The introduction of Jet Skis coincides with a notable increase in recruitment for the service in fiscal 2025.

India showcased a range of indigenous military equipment during the Republic Day parade on January 26, including the debut of the LR-AShM hypersonic missile. The missile, developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has a range exceeding 1500 kilometers and is designed for naval defense. The parade also featured various other indigenous systems, emphasizing India's growing military capabilities and self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

The F-15EX Eagle II demonstrates effectiveness in air-to-air combat against fifth-generation adversaries, utilizing advanced speed and sensing capabilities. It is equipped with a high-speed computer and can fire hypersonic weapons, enhancing its combat potential. The U.S. Air Force continues to develop and integrate this aircraft into its operations, supporting stealthier platforms in complex air campaigns.

Leonardo Rheinmetall Military Vehicles delivered the first four Lynx KF-41 infantry fighting vehicles to the Italian Army at the Multifunctional Experimentation Centre in Montelibretti on 27 January 2026. This delivery marks the official launch of the Army Armoured Combat Systems (A2CS) programme, which aims to modernize the Italian Army's heavy armor formations with advanced technology. The event was attended by key military and defense leaders.

On January 27, 2026, the Israel Ministry of Defense announced a multi-year order for air-launched munitions from Elbit Systems, valued at approximately USD 183 million. This agreement aims to expand Israel's defense-industrial base and enhance the capabilities of the Israel Defense Forces. The initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen national security and economic resilience through domestic defense production.

LEMT unveiled a portable drone-based counter-drone system at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi from January 20 to 22, 2026. The system features a hand-held launcher and interceptor drones capable of automatic flight after target detection. The interceptor drone has a range of 6 km and is equipped with a fragmentation warhead.

The United States Marine Corps is training and certifying operators for small attack drone missions at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California. The course focuses on the combat use of first-person view (FPV) drones, teaching Marines to prepare payloads, assemble drones, and execute missions. This initiative aims to standardize drone operations across units and enhance battlefield capabilities with unmanned systems.

The U.S. Navy is enhancing the survivability of its supercarriers against Chinese anti-ship missiles by implementing advanced technologies such as the MQ-25 Stingray drone, which extends the operational range of carrier-based aircraft. The Navy is also integrating layered defense systems, including Electronic Warfare and laser weapons, to counter threats. These developments are part of a broader strategy to maintain operational readiness in contested maritime environments.

The U.S. Marine Corps approved the HANX, its first fully compliant 3D-printed drone, developed by the 2nd Marine Logistics Group at Camp Lejeune. This drone is designed for multiple missions, including reconnaissance and logistics, and aims to enhance U.S. drone capabilities by 2028. The project emphasizes low-cost production and compliance with security standards.

DSIT Solutions launched the GhostFin sonar suite for unmanned underwater vehicles on January 27, 2026. This advanced system enhances surveillance capabilities for Anti-Submarine Warfare and Anti-Surface Warfare, featuring multiple sonar types and autonomous operation. GhostFin is designed for integration with various UUV sizes and can be utilized for real-time surveillance and acoustic signal collection.

Elbit Systems secured a $228 million contract to provide the Iron Fist Active Protection System for the US Army's Bradley Infantry Fighting Vehicles. This contract enhances the defensive capabilities of the Bradley IFVs, ensuring better protection against threats.

Israel's Ministry of Defense signed a contract exceeding $183 million with Elbit Systems for aerial munitions to enhance its defense industrial base. This procurement is part of a multi-year military buildup plan aimed at ensuring future equipment supply and improving military readiness over the next decade. The Defense Minister highlighted the expansion of domestic production as a core national security interest.