Analysis & Reports

L3Harris Technologies installed industrial robots at its new GMLRS rocket motor facility in Camden, Arkansas, in February 2025. This installation marks a significant step in enhancing the production capacity for solid rocket motors, which are critical for the Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System. The expansion is part of a broader effort to rebuild the U.S. munitions production base, reflecting lessons learned from recent military engagements.

AI usage in the Department of War has surged by 1,775% over the past year, with approximately 1.42 million users now involved in defense operations. This rapid integration of AI into military workflows presents significant challenges for data protection, necessitating robust security measures for sensitive mission data across various operational devices. Cigent collaborates with defense teams to enhance data-at-rest protection, ensuring mission success in an evolving technological landscape.

Army investigators are looking into the theft of $33,000 worth of military gear from a soldier's rental vehicle in Portland, Oregon, which occurred overnight between October 29 and 30. The stolen equipment includes flight helmets, survival radios, and a military-grade laptop. The Army Criminal Investigation Division has confirmed an open investigation into the incident, which has faced setbacks.

iRocket was awarded a contract by the U.S. Army on June 08, 2026, to produce Hydra-70 Guided Rocket Components aimed at enhancing counter-drone capabilities. This contract, valued between $30 million and $150 million, addresses the urgent need for affordable and effective munitions in response to increasing drone threats, particularly in ongoing operations in Iran. The modified Hydra-70 rockets will serve as a critical component in the U.S. Army's counter-UAS strategy.

iRocket was awarded a contract by the U.S. Army on June 8, 2023, to produce laser-guided components for Hydra-70 rockets, enhancing capabilities against low-cost drone threats. This initiative addresses the economic disparity between expensive U.S. interceptors and cheaper enemy drones. The production facility aims for a high output rate, targeting a significant increase in precision munitions availability for U.S. forces.

Roboze is advancing its integrated additive manufacturing ecosystem for defense applications across North America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The company is involved in the DIANA project, which focuses on secure digital infrastructures for producing spare parts near naval operational environments. This shift towards distributed and software-defined manufacturing aims to enhance operational resilience and reduce reliance on traditional logistics systems.

The U.S. Army awarded a contract to General Dynamics for the development of a precision artillery shell capable of hitting targets 70 kilometers away. This shell is based on the Vulcano 155 system already in use by Germany and Italy. The production will be transitioned to American facilities to enhance domestic manufacturing capabilities. The new munition incorporates advanced guidance systems for improved targeting precision.

The U.S. Air Force published a sources-sought notice on June 5, 2026, seeking American companies to produce the Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) and Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) for production lots from 2031 to 2036. This initiative aims to explore additional production capabilities amid increasing demand for precision long-range strike weapons, particularly influenced by the conflict in Ukraine. Lockheed Martin currently holds the sole production contract for these missiles.

The U.S. Army awarded a $212 million contract on June 5, 2023, to Machining Technologies Inc. in Salisbury, Maryland, and Globe Tech LLC in Plymouth, Minnesota, for the production of mortar fins. This contract, structured as a firm-fixed-price indefinite-delivery vehicle, ensures a reliable supply of fins for 60 mm, 81 mm, and 120 mm mortars, enhancing the Army's fire support capabilities. The dual-vendor approach aims to mitigate supply chain risks.

House lawmakers mandated the U.S. Army to submit an annual report by February 15 detailing its transformation plans, including assessments of phased-out capabilities and planned investments. The Army's helicopter procurement strategy faced scrutiny, leading to increased funding for additional aircraft. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated a review of the initiative is underway, reflecting ongoing legislative oversight of military transformation efforts.

The Pentagon has begun accepting 20,000 small, one-way attack drones as part of its initiative to enhance military capabilities. This includes 2,400 drones delivered by Neros, with plans to equip every squad by the end of fiscal 2026. A budget of approximately $1 billion is allocated for drone purchases over the next two years, with additional contracts awarded for various drone systems.

The House Armed Services Committee adopted the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act early Friday morning, approving $500 million for a second destroyer and $50 million for the Army’s Improved Turbine Engine Program. A bipartisan amendment on 'right to repair' was also included, allowing the Defense Department to secure government purpose rights for technical data and software. The committee engaged in debates over renaming the Defense Department and maintaining A-10 aircraft.

The U.S. Army awarded an $11.2 million contract to Teledyne FLIR Defense on June 4, 2026, for over 45 drone kits designed for chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) detection. The kits will be built in Elkridge, Maryland, West Lafayette, Indiana, and Stillwater, Oklahoma, with deliveries expected in the second quarter of 2026. These drone systems will enhance reconnaissance capabilities while keeping soldiers safe from hazardous environments.

The U.S. Army standardized the Mortars App, a new smartphone-based fire control application for all mortar units, replacing outdated systems. Developed by the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command, the app was fully released in March 2026 and is designed to enhance the efficiency and safety of mortar fire control operations. It consolidates previous software into a single, user-friendly application that runs on Android devices, improving logistics and training for soldiers.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking external storage pods for the OA-1K Skyraider II to enhance its operational capability. The 17th Special Operations Squadron, based at Will Rogers Air National Guard Base in Oklahoma, requires these pods to carry mission equipment during training missions. The aircraft, which has limited internal storage, is expected to achieve initial operational capability in 2026.

The U.S. Army awarded a $77.9 million contract modification to Repkon USA to build a TNT production facility in Graham, Kentucky, marking the first domestic production since the 1980s. The total contract value is now $404 million, with completion expected by February 15, 2029. This initiative aims to enhance the U.S. supply chain for munitions, addressing vulnerabilities exposed during recent conflicts.

Republicans defeated an amendment to eliminate $1 billion in funding for the Trump-class battleship during a House Armed Services Committee markup in Washington. The amendment, proposed by Rep. Adam Smith, aimed to redirect funds towards autonomous drone ships but was rejected in a 26-30 vote. The ongoing debate on the fiscal 2027 defense policy bill includes discussions on the necessity of the battleship and its implications for future military capabilities.

Northrop Grumman is actively marketing its G/ATOR radar system, having delivered over 40 units to the U.S. Marine Corps and Air Force, with a total of 60 systems contracted for delivery by 2029. The G/ATOR radar integrates multiple air defense functions into a single mobile platform, enhancing operational efficiency and survivability. Its advanced capabilities include tracking multiple targets and countering drone threats, making it appealing to international buyers, particularly NATO members and Indo-Pacific partners.

Elbit Systems of America and Anduril Industries announced a partnership on June 2 to develop the SIGMA Mobile Tactical Cannon for the U.S. Army’s Self-Propelled Howitzer Modernization program. This collaboration combines Elbit's artillery expertise with Anduril's advanced software capabilities, aiming to improve the Army's artillery systems. The SIGMA system is based on the ATMOS 155 mm howitzer and will utilize a 10×10 wheeled chassis provided by Oshkosh Defense.

The U.S. Army awarded a $117 million contract to AeroVironment on June 3, 2026, for the delivery of 82 P550 unmanned aircraft systems. This procurement aims to enhance reconnaissance and targeting capabilities for ground commanders, with an estimated delivery completion by July 23, 2026. The P550 drones are designed for rapid deployment in various terrains, offering significant operational flexibility.