Analysis & Reports

Northrop Grumman and Boeing are engaged in a competitive bid for the U.S. Navy's F/A-XX sixth-generation stealth fighter contract. Northrop leverages its experience with the F-14 Tomcat and stealth technologies from the B-2 and B-21, while Boeing highlights its successful upgrades to the F/A-18 and F-15 platforms. The outcome of this competition could significantly impact future U.S. naval air power.

Operation Epic Fury is ongoing in Iran as of May 1, 2026, with the Trump administration signaling it will ignore the War Powers Resolution deadline. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that the 60-day clock pauses during a cease-fire, leading to political disputes over the legality of the operation. Congress has attempted to intervene but has failed to pass legislation to stop the military action.

Saab unveiled a new tank-killer round for the Carl-Gustaf M4 recoilless rifle, aimed at defeating explosive reactive armor. This development enhances anti-tank capabilities in military operations.

Patria signed memorandums of understanding with three Czech state enterprises regarding the Czech Armed Forces' plans to acquire a new 8x8 wheeled armoured vehicle.

HAVELSAN signed a contract amendment for the Version 3 configuration of the BARKAN Unmanned Ground Vehicle (UGV) at SAHA Expo 2026. The BARKAN UGV, first inducted into the Turkish Armed Forces in 2023, has evolved based on operational feedback. BARKAN 3 features modular capabilities for various missions and is designed to operate alongside other systems, enhancing its effectiveness in complex operational scenarios.

Celebra Tech has integrated its Tryzub laser system into a mobile counter-drone platform in Ukraine, capable of engaging various drone types. The system can reportedly engage targets at distances up to 5 kilometers, addressing threats from Shahed-type drones. Its first public demonstration took place in April 2025, showcasing its capabilities against FPV drones and ground targets. The Tryzub features advanced AI guidance and radar integration for improved target acquisition and tracking.

New Zealand is evaluating Japan's Mogami-class frigate and Britain's Type 31 frigate as candidates for its naval frigate replacement program, announced by Defence Minister Judith Collins on May 7, 2026. This decision follows Australia's selection of a Mogami-derived design for its SEA 3000 program. The evaluation aims to replace aging Anzac-class vessels in the Royal New Zealand Navy, with a recommendation expected by the end of next year.

The U.S. Navy's F/A-XX fighter program is at risk of delays or cancellation due to budget constraints, while the Chinese J-36 and J-50 sixth-generation fighters are actively being tested. Navy leaders stress the urgent need for the F/A-XX to maintain competitive air capabilities against emerging Chinese threats. Without the F/A-XX, future U.S. carrier air wings may be inadequately equipped, relying only on existing F-35C and F/A-18 aircraft.

A Chinese vehicle-mounted laser weapon system designed for counter-drone operations was spotted at Dubai International Airport in 2022. The system, resembling the Guangjian-21A, has not been officially acknowledged by either Chinese or Emirati authorities. It offers high precision and low operating costs, making it suitable for air defense against drone threats.

Rheinmetall AG successfully integrated its Naval Systems segment, achieving record order books of €5.5 billion and an 8% increase in sales to €1,938 million in the first quarter of 2026. The company anticipates stronger growth in sales and order intake in the upcoming quarter, bolstered by significant military contracts. Rheinmetall's overall backlog has risen to €73 billion, reflecting its expanding role in defense technology across various sectors, including maritime and land systems.

The National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency (NGA) is finalizing a new framework to operationalize artificial intelligence (AI) for geospatial intelligence (GEOINT) in Denver. This initiative aims to modernize operations and enhance AI governance, ensuring human analysts remain integral to decision-making. NGA has also established a Rapid Capabilities Office to expedite the delivery of actionable intelligence and plans to engage industry partners for innovative solutions.

Balikatan 2026 concluded with over 17,000 troops from the U.S., Philippines, and four other nations participating in extensive military exercises from April 20 to May 8. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force launched Type 88 missiles at a decommissioned Philippine Navy vessel in the South China Sea, marking a historic first. The exercise showcased advanced military capabilities, including the NMESIS and BrahMos systems, and emphasized multinational cooperation in regional security efforts.

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President Xi Jinping inspected a submarine unit of the North Theater Command Navy on June 11, 2018, focusing on the capabilities and readiness of the personnel. He encouraged the submarine crew to strengthen their ideals and combat skills while acknowledging their dedication to service in the deep sea.

On May 7, the China Coast Guard conducted a patrol in the territorial waters of Diaoyu Island. This operation is part of China's legal rights protection activities regarding the area.

At least 228 U.S. military assets were damaged in the Iran conflict from February 28 to April 14, with significant losses reported at bases in Bahrain and Kuwait. The damage includes hangars, barracks, and critical military equipment. U.S. personnel have been evacuated to safer locations outside of Iranian strike range due to the ongoing threat. Experts suggest that the U.S. underestimated Iran's capabilities and failed to adapt to modern drone warfare.

Russia launched 108 combat drones and three missiles against Ukrainian cities, including Kharkiv, on May 5-6, 2023, following the collapse of a proposed ceasefire. Ukrainian President Zelensky reported 1,820 ceasefire violations by Russian forces, including airstrikes and assaults. A kindergarten in the Sumy region was hit, resulting in two deaths. The situation reflects ongoing military operations and information warfare between Ukraine and Russia surrounding the Victory Day celebrations.

On April 25, 2026, a coordinated offensive by the Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA) and Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) targeted eight locations in Mali, resulting in significant casualties, including the death of Defense Minister Sadio Camara. The offensive led to the capture of Kidal and other strategic areas, while the Malian Armed Forces and Africa Corps faced heavy losses. In retaliation, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) initiated airstrikes against jihadist positions.

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On May 6, 2023, the Russian Armed Forces conducted a rehearsal for the Victory Day parade, with aircraft flying over Moscow and releasing smoke in the colors of the Russian flag. The official parade is scheduled for May 9, 2023, commemorating the victory in World War II.

U.S. Air Force deployed F-22 Raptors from Alaska and Virginia to Kadena Air Base in Japan. This deployment enhances air superiority capabilities in the Western Pacific and supports the U.S.-Japan security alliance amid rising Chinese military activity. The F-22s will operate alongside existing aircraft at Kadena, integrating with local operations to maintain readiness for contingencies.

U.S. Soldiers from the 10th Mountain Division are currently training with the Bumblebee V1 counter-drone system at Fort Drum. This system, evaluated by JIATF-401, is designed for counter-UAS missions and has shown multi-role capabilities, including reconnaissance and ordnance delivery. The training aims to enhance operational effectiveness and safety by allowing soldiers to engage threats without direct exposure to enemy fire.