Analysis & Reports

Iran's new 358 air defense missile system has successfully intercepted U.S. drones, including MQ-9 Reapers, in March 2023. This low-cost missile, which can be deployed from compact launchers, has proven effective against advanced military technology, raising concerns about its impact on U.S. air operations in the region. The missile's capabilities suggest a significant advancement in Iran's military technology, with potential implications for future conflicts.

The U.S. military has depleted a significant portion of its missile stockpiles in the ongoing Iran War, using up to 50% of key systems within 39 days. This includes approximately 850 Tomahawk missiles and over 1,000 JASSMs. The defense industrial base is struggling to replenish these munitions, raising concerns about U.S. readiness for future conflicts, particularly with China and North Korea.

Elbit Systems was awarded contracts totaling approximately $200 million for advanced airborne munitions to the Israel Ministry of Defense during Operation 'Roaring Lion' on April 22, 2026. This underscores Elbit's technological leadership in air-launched weapon systems and its commitment to supporting the Israeli Air Force's capabilities.

Israel's Ministry of Defense signed a procurement order for over $200 million in air-launched weapons from Elbit Systems on the 23rd. This order aims to enhance Israel's operational capabilities in response to security challenges over the next decade. Elbit Systems is a key supplier for the Israeli military.

Israeli F-35I Adir aircraft conducted 1,500 sorties over Iran, successfully executing airstrikes without detection. The missions utilized external fuel tanks to extend their operational range, allowing for strikes without in-flight refueling. This capability highlights the effectiveness of the F-35I and informs U.S. efforts to enhance the range of its F-35A aircraft through similar upgrades.

The U.S. Air Force deployed 18 A-10 Warthogs to the Strait of Hormuz to conduct operations against Iranian fast-attack boats and support search and rescue missions for downed F-15E airmen. Secretary of the Air Force Troy Meink announced the extension of the A-10's service life until 2030, highlighting its continued relevance in current military operations.

The U.S. Navy operates three aircraft carriers in the Middle East, including the USS Gerald R. Ford, enhancing maritime attack capabilities against Iran. Carrier-launched fighter jets have proven effective in counter-drone operations, while dual-carrier operations increase mission endurance and attack volume. Advanced defensive technologies are being integrated into U.S. Navy destroyers to counter potential threats.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading its HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters to enhance missile defense capabilities following a rescue mission in Iran on April 3, 2023. The upgrade aims to address vulnerabilities to heat-seeking missiles, particularly in contested environments. This initiative comes after the Air Force faced challenges during the mission, including small-arms fire and the loss of an A-10 aircraft.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading its HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters with laser systems to defend against heat-seeking missiles following a rescue mission in Iran in April 2023. This initiative addresses vulnerabilities in the helicopters against shoulder-launched missiles, emphasizing the need for advanced infrared countermeasures. The upgrade comes after a mission where two helicopters faced small-arms fire while recovering a downed pilot.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading its HH-60W Jolly Green II helicopters to enhance missile defense capabilities following a rescue mission in Iran on April 3, 2023. The upgrade aims to address vulnerabilities to heat-seeking missiles, particularly after the mission involved significant risks from ground fire. The Air Force is seeking advanced infrared countermeasures to improve aircraft survivability during combat search and rescue operations.

Lockheed Martin upgraded the F-22 Raptor, enhancing its combat range by 850 nautical miles with new stealth-compatible fuel tanks. The U.S. Air Force continues to deploy the F-22 in operations across the Indo-Pacific, including recent missions in Estonia and against threats in Iran. The addition of infrared search-and-track sensors improves the aircraft's survivability and situational awareness, ensuring its role in maintaining air superiority.

The U.S. military is experiencing a significant shortage of missiles due to extensive use in the ongoing conflict with Iran, with over 45% of Precision Strike Missiles already expended. As tensions rise over Taiwan, the U.S. faces challenges in replenishing its missile stockpiles, which could hinder its ability to engage in a two-front conflict. The Department of Defense is actively working with contractors to increase production of various missile systems to address these shortages.

The A-10 Warthog is actively engaged in combat operations against Iranian threats, particularly in maritime targeting. The U.S. Air Force plans to extend its service until 2030 due to its effectiveness in close air support. Recent operations have demonstrated its capability to operate in low-altitude environments and engage enemy forces with precision weapons.

On April 19, 2023, the commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Aerospace Force stated that Iran is replenishing its missile and drone launch systems at a rate exceeding pre-war levels. This statement was made during a ceasefire period, following U.S. and Israeli attacks aimed at Iran's missile capabilities. Iran claims that its supply and deployment of these systems have accelerated compared to the period before the conflict escalated.

Iran deployed naval mines in the Strait of Hormuz, threatening global oil transport routes. The U.S. Navy is responding by utilizing unmanned surface vehicles and sonar systems to clear these mines. This situation highlights the vulnerabilities of U.S. naval operations in the region, as mines have historically caused significant damage to U.S. vessels.

On April 21, 2023, Iran showcased Qadr and Khoramshahr-4 missiles in Tehran, following previous missile strikes against Israeli and U.S. targets. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) released videos from their operations. A temporary ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, initiated on April 8, is scheduled to conclude on April 22, 2023.

The U.S. Air Force confirmed that the A-10 Warthog will remain in service until at least 2030, reversing earlier retirement plans. The aircraft is actively engaged in combat operations in the ongoing conflict in Iran, conducting airstrikes on maritime targets in the Strait of Hormuz. With 162 A-10s still in inventory, the Air Force emphasizes the need for capable combat aircraft during wartime.

U.S. Forces in Korea confirmed that the THAAD missile defense system remains deployed in South Korea and has not been moved to the Middle East. General Xavier Brunson stated that while munitions are being sent forward, the THAAD system is still on the peninsula, addressing concerns about deterrence against North Korea. Previous radar movements were made in preparation for U.S. operations in Iran, but the THAAD systems themselves are expected to stay in South Korea.

U.S. Forces in Korea confirmed that the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system remains deployed in South Korea and has not been moved to the Middle East. Munitions are being sent forward, while previous radar movements were made in preparation for U.S. operations against Iran. South Korea's President expressed confidence in deterring threats from North Korea despite potential U.S. redeployments.

HAVELSAN exported its Mission Planning System (FSGP) to Spain as part of the HÜRJET program on April 21, 2026. This system, crucial for the Turkish Air Force, enhances air operations and will be integrated into both Turkish and Spanish military frameworks. Additionally, HAVELSAN is supplying a training simulator to support operational readiness.