Analysis & Reports

U.S. Cyber Command is enhancing its cyber capabilities with a focus on 'quality over quantity' to counter China's significant advantage in offensive cyber personnel. Recent discussions highlight the need for improved training and retention of skilled cyber operators. Concerns have been raised about the effectiveness of the current force generation model and the necessity for increased funding for cyber operations.

Gene Miller has been appointed as the president of Austal USA in Washington after serving as interim president since February 2024. His leadership is expected to advance the company's direction in shipbuilding for the Coast Guard and Navy, particularly at a critical time for national defense. Miller's experience includes roles at Ingalls Shipbuilding and General Dynamics Bath Iron Works.

Kenneth Maurice Quick, Jr. was convicted on May 16, 2023, for the drug-related murders of Master Sgt. William Lavigne and Army veteran Timothy Dumas at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, in December 2020. Quick shot Lavigne during a cocaine deal and later killed Dumas to conceal the crime. Quick faces a potential life sentence in federal prison.

German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius promoted the Type 212CD submarines at the CANSEC defense exhibition in Ottawa, emphasizing the economic benefits of the deal. The contract, potentially worth C$60 billion, aims to enhance NATO's northern flank capabilities. Pistorius's visit marks a shift in Germany's approach to arms exports, as he seeks to secure a joint bid with Norway for up to 12 submarines. A decision from the Canadian government is anticipated by early July.

U.S. Central Command reported that U.S. forces in the Gulf are being targeted using commercially available location data by adversaries for surveillance and potential attacks. This targeting was confirmed in a letter shared by Senator Ron Wyden, highlighting the risks posed by the adtech industry. Lawmakers have urged military officials to take immediate action to protect personnel from these threats.

FN Browning Group announced the acquisition of Accuracy International on 28 May 2026, enhancing its capabilities in precision bolt-action rifle systems. This strategic move strengthens the UK's defense industrial base and ensures continued access to advanced military equipment. The acquisition is expected to increase export opportunities and reinforce the UK's sovereign defense capabilities.

Canada announced the purchase of six GlobalEye early warning and control aircraft from Saab, valued at over $5 billion CAN, to enhance military capabilities and support domestic defense production. Prime Minister Mark Carney made the announcement on May 27, 2025, at the CANSEC defense trade show in Ottawa. The GlobalEye will strengthen Canada's surveillance capabilities, particularly in the Arctic, and at least one-third of the aircraft orders for allies will be manufactured in Canada.

Saab signed a teaming agreement with CAE to jointly pursue Canada's Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) programme based on the GlobalEye platform. This partnership aims to enhance training and simulation solutions for the Canadian Armed Forces, reflecting a commitment to strengthen Canada's defense capabilities. The agreement was announced in November 2025 and underscores the companies' ambition to deepen their collaboration.

On May 28, 2023, the U.S. and Japan conducted joint military exercises near Taiwan, aimed at enhancing regional deterrence and emergency response capabilities. China's defense spokesperson criticized this military cooperation, labeling it as provocative and a threat to regional peace. The exercises took place just 110 kilometers from Taiwan, raising tensions in the area.

Japan's destroyer Ikazuchi participated in joint naval exercises with the Philippine Navy and U.S. Coast Guard in the South China Sea on April 23, 2026. Discussions on the GSOMIA negotiations were a key focus during Philippine President Marcos's visit to Japan, emphasizing enhanced defense cooperation. The report highlights the operationalization of defense agreements between Japan and the Philippines.

Tanaka TakashiThu May 28 2026Loading...

Canada's Prime Minister Carney announced on the 27th that the Canadian Armed Forces will procure Swedish military reconnaissance aircraft, abandoning U.S. suppliers. The Saab GlobalEye aircraft was selected over U.S. competitors, reflecting a shift in Canada's defense procurement policy. The government is also assessing its future purchases of F-35 fighter jets from the U.S., although Carney stated these decisions are unrelated.

The U.S. military plans to establish a separate service branch for cyber operations by 2028, potentially comprising 30,000 personnel, including active-duty troops and civilians. This initiative aims to enhance the effectiveness of cyber warfare capabilities and address existing recruitment and training challenges. The proposal is currently under consideration by Congress and the White House.

The Pentagon awarded a $9.7 billion contract to Dell Federal Systems in Washington to consolidate Microsoft software licenses across the Department of Defense. This five-year agreement aims to streamline IT services and is expected to save $422 million annually. The contract supports the digital strategy for Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control, enhancing operational efficiency and cybersecurity standards.

The House Armed Services Committee (HASC) released a draft of the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, requesting $1.15 trillion in baseline defense spending, while the Pentagon seeks $1.5 trillion. An additional $350 billion is needed to fully fund military priorities, including munitions and shipbuilding. HASC Chairman Mike Rogers is confident that Congress will approve the necessary reconciliation funds.

The Department of the Air Force is currently working to organize Space Force programs into new acquisition portfolios, as stated by acting acquisition czar Thomas Ainsworth at the State of the Space Industrial Base conference in New Mexico. Ainsworth noted that the process is ongoing, with six program acquisition executives already announced. He assured that a public announcement regarding the PAE organization will be made once finalized.

The U.S. Navy plans to retire 46 ships, including 2 aircraft carriers, by 2031, reducing its fleet to 288 warships. Concurrently, China is expanding its naval capabilities, aiming for 9 aircraft carriers by 2035. This shift raises concerns about U.S. military readiness amid growing naval requirements and potential conflict with China.

The U.S. Congress passed the Sharri Briley and Eric Edmundson Veterans Benefits Expansion Act, proposing a 1.5% increase in Dependency and Indemnity Compensation for Gold Star families and an additional $833.33 per month for severely disabled veterans. This legislation aims to provide financial support to families who have sacrificed significantly, addressing the rising costs of living and care for veterans. Veteran organizations have expressed support for the bill, emphasizing the need for increased benefits.

The Pentagon announced the promotion of 22 Navy officers to rear admiral, with no women included, highlighting ongoing barriers to women's advancement in the military. This continues a trend where women have not been promoted to flag officer ranks over the past year. Currently, only 6% of admirals in the Navy are women, despite women making up 15% of active duty Navy captains. The report emphasizes systemic issues affecting women's representation in senior military roles.

Mining companies are increasingly seeking U.S. listings to meet defense-related demand for critical minerals, with at least 18 firms pursuing this in 2025. Guardian Metal Resources aims to supply tungsten for U.S. military needs, while United States Antimony has secured a $245 million defense contract. The U.S. government is actively involved in funding and supporting these initiatives to reduce reliance on foreign sources, particularly from China.

Canada is negotiating with Saab for the procurement of approximately six GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft. The announcement was made by Prime Minister Mark Carney at CANSEC, with Saab confirmed as the preferred supplier. The program aims to enhance the Royal Canadian Air Force's surveillance capabilities, particularly in remote areas like the Arctic.