Analysis & Reports

The report discusses why fifth-generation fighter jets prefer thrust vectoring technology, highlighting its benefits for maneuverability and performance.

The report discusses how Christmas was observed in the U.S. and abroad during WWII, highlighting military operations, troop morale, and the impact of war on holiday celebrations. It details the activities of American and British forces during Christmas 1941, including strategic meetings and the challenges faced by soldiers in various theaters of war.

An independent government watchdog found significant issues in the U.S. Navy's fire safety enforcement during ship maintenance, highlighting staffing shortages and ineffective oversight tools. The report details past fire incidents and recommends improvements to ensure safety compliance.

In 2025, NATO allies, excluding Spain, pledged to increase defense spending to 5% of GDP amid ongoing tensions from Russia's war in Ukraine. US President Trump's peace deal efforts faced opposition from European leaders, who criticized the lack of Ukrainian input. The EU also announced a significant rearmament package, reflecting heightened security concerns in Europe.

The report discusses the rapid integration of artificial intelligence in military operations, highlighting significant developments in the U.S. and Ukraine, including the use of AI for drone efficiency, intelligence generation, and cyber warfare. It emphasizes the institutionalization of AI in military planning and operations, with a focus on both advancements and potential risks.

An Afghan national, Rahmanullah Lakanwal, has been charged in connection with the shooting of two West Virginia National Guard troops near the White House on November 26, 2025. One soldier, Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, was killed, and another, Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, was critically injured. Lakanwal faces multiple charges, including first-degree murder, and has pleaded not guilty. The case is now in U.S. District Court, where the death penalty is being considered.

The report outlines significant military activities and defense developments in the Middle East during 2025, including military strikes between Israel and Iran, Turkey's investment in air defense systems, and Saudi Arabia's potential drone purchases. It highlights the growing defense industry in the region, with nine firms making it to SIPRI’s Top 100 arms producers list.

The report details the story of Charley Longfellow, who enlisted in the Union Army during the Civil War, was wounded in battle, and inspired his father, poet Henry Wadsworth Longfellow, to write a famous Christmas poem during his recovery.

The Pacific Marines are undergoing modernization and preparing for a busy operational year ahead, focusing on military readiness in the region.

The report discusses the escalating confrontations between Russian and Ukrainian drones, highlighting the ongoing military activity in Ukraine.

The report discusses the advantages of Israel's Iron Beam air defense system, highlighting its capabilities and role in national defense.

Iran has declared that its missile program is not open for negotiation, emphasizing its military stance.

The report discusses the potential revival of the U.S. Navy's railgun technology, indicating it may be operational again.

The report highlights six wargames that serve as valuable tools for military training and understanding warfare, including Command: Modern Operations and Flashpoint Campaigns, which are used by various militaries for strategic planning and education.

The US Air Force is advancing its Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program, with Northrop Grumman's Project Talon being recognized as a strong contender for initial production contracts. The Air Force plans to purchase over 100 CCAs by 2030 and has selected nine additional companies to develop a second iteration of CCAs, broadening their operational capabilities.

Various organizations are actively supporting military families during the holiday season by providing meals, gifts, and community support. Notable efforts include Operation Homefront serving over 13,000 families, the distribution of $150,000 in gift cards by Army Emergency Relief, and the delivery of holiday meal fixings by the Defense Logistics Agency. Military families are also engaged in giving back to their communities.

The report discusses how American servicemen during WWII celebrated Christmas despite the challenges of war, highlighting the importance of food and packages from home in boosting morale. It features accounts of Christmas menus and personal letters from soldiers, illustrating their experiences and the significance of maintaining traditions during difficult times.

About 450 U.S. Marines were deployed to Yuma, Arizona, to support security along the southern border. This deployment is part of a task force effort to assist the U.S. Border Patrol and is expected to last around six months. The Marines will work on various projects including construction and barrier reinforcement.

The report discusses the pivotal role of drones in modern warfare, particularly in Ukraine, where they are used for various military operations. It highlights the importance of training drone operators through high-fidelity simulators, which have prepared over 5,000 pilots for real-world missions. The report also notes the strategic implications of drone warfare and the evolving military tactics in response to this technology.