Analysis & Reports

U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) issued a solicitation on April 24, 2023, seeking private companies and research groups to develop new technologies for special operations missions under the ANCHOR Initiative. The focus includes drones, artificial intelligence, and directed energy systems to enhance operational capabilities. Responses are due by June 1, 2023.

Eli Heidenreich and Landon Robinson from the U.S. Naval Academy were selected in the 2025 NFL draft, marking the first time in 70 years that two midshipmen were drafted in the same year. Robinson was chosen by the Cincinnati Bengals as the 226th pick, while Heidenreich was picked by the Pittsburgh Steelers as the 230th. Both players will graduate in May and be commissioned in the reserves after a successful season with a record of 11-2.

U.S. President Trump ordered the Navy to fire on any vessels, including small boats, in the Strait of Hormuz on April 23, 2020, amid rising tensions with Iran's 'mosquito fleet.' Over 15 U.S. Navy ships are currently deployed in the area, while Iran maintains a significant number of operational small boats. This escalation could disrupt the ongoing ceasefire and alter military engagement strategies in the region.

UK and France announced plans for a multinational military mission to ensure the safety of the Strait of Hormuz during a meeting in London on April 23, 2023. The initiative aims to restore trade through this critical passage and involves the deployment of Typhoon fighter jets and mine-clearing drones. Defense officials expressed confidence in making significant progress, with participation from dozens of countries. Iran has stated it will not reopen the Strait while the US maintains its blockade.

XDOWN's STUD drone attracted significant interest from over 500 military representatives during a demonstration at a NATO base in Romania. The drone, designed for rapid deployment and multiple military roles, is set for mass production in partnership with Qognifly Systems, which aims to produce thousands of units monthly by 2026. This initiative aligns with the U.S. military's strategy to enhance drone capabilities.

ThinKom Solutions demonstrated a mobile High Power Microwave system at a U.S. Army test in August 2025, designed to disable drones by damaging their electronics. The system, mounted on a pickup truck and integrated with Echodyne’s EchoShield radar, showcased its capability to engage threats in real-time without stopping the vehicle. This technology represents a significant advancement in counter-drone operations, emphasizing portability and effectiveness over traditional methods.