Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force's F-22 Raptor fleet's mission-capable rate has dropped to 40.19 percent in fiscal 2024, prompting concerns over readiness. The Air Force has 184 F-22s, including 32 older Block 20 models that Congress has blocked from retirement. Upgrading these Block 20s is projected to cost at least $3.3 billion and take about 15 years, complicating the Air Force's operational capabilities amid increasing global demands.

EDGE Group showcased the upgraded Mirage 2000 fighter jet equipped with Thunder precision-guided munitions and an ISR pod in the United Arab Emirates. This integration allows the aircraft to locate and strike targets effectively in a single mission. The UAE Armed Forces has invested significantly in this capability, with a recent contract for Thunder munitions valued at approximately $583 million.

The new prototype of the Khan fighter jet completed its first taxi test in Istanbul on July 31, 2023. Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries, the jet features multiple design improvements and is set to replace the F-16 in the Turkish Air Force. The first flight is planned for February 21, 2024.

Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) successfully conducted powered taxi tests of the KAAN P1 fighter jet prototype in Turkey. The aircraft is part of Turkey's fifth-generation stealth fighter program, initiated after the country was removed from the F-35 program. TUSAŞ aims for the first flight of P1 within a couple of months, with plans for 148 aircraft to be produced and first deliveries to the Turkish Air Force targeted for 2028.

Innoviz Technologies secured a $3.5 million defense contract on July 30, 2026, for several hundred LiDAR units intended for counter-drone systems in Israel. The technology aims to enhance threat localization and detection capabilities, addressing limitations of traditional sensors. Half of the units are expected to ship by the end of 2026, with potential for larger follow-on orders based on initial deployment success.

Iran is purchasing 400 QW-12 and FN-16 missiles from China, with the first shipment expected in the coming weeks. This acquisition, valued at $60 to $70 million, aims to bolster Iran's air defense capabilities following recent military engagements. The deal highlights a strategic shift in Iran's defense procurement, seeking alternative supply routes amid geopolitical tensions.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Jul 31 2026Loading...

The Iranian military conducted drone strikes against U.S. forces at Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain on July 30, targeting generators, navigation systems, and logistical buildings. The strikes reportedly caused significant damage to U.S. military assets, despite the presence of numerous defense systems.

Approximately 120 soldiers from the Israel Defense Forces refused orders and left their military base in Jerusalem on July 30. The incident arose from a conflict with a commander regarding the removal of slogans and signs, which soldiers protested against. Most of the soldiers returned to their posts, and the military has stated it will investigate the actions of the leading soldiers involved.

Ukraine claimed to have sunk a Russian Kilo-class submarine in Sevastopol on August 2, 2024, during a missile strike. The Kilo-class submarines, used by various navies including Russia, China, and Vietnam, are known for their stealth capabilities and are armed with Kalibr cruise missiles. The report highlights the ongoing relevance of these submarines in modern naval operations.

The U.S. military conducted an airstrike on Geshm Island, Iran, on July 30, resulting in the deaths of three family members, including a two-year-old child. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the attack, stating it caused significant damage to residential buildings and compared the actions to those of terrorist organizations.

Hamas may soon sign a disarmament agreement that requires the group to surrender all weapons within 6 to 8 months. The Palestinian technocratic government will gradually take control of parts of the Gaza Strip, and Hamas members will receive amnesty. The Israeli Defense Forces plan to withdraw to the 'Green Line' following the agreement's signing, but will still act against imminent threats.

Ukraine is developing new anti-ballistic missile systems, including the Freyja, in collaboration with nine European countries. Lockheed Martin has secured a $53.86 billion contract to enhance PAC-3 production. The urgency for these systems is driven by the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and the U.S.-Israeli war with Iran, which have depleted existing missile inventories.

The U.S. military has significantly depleted its inventory of Patriot and THAAD missiles in response to Iranian attacks in the Middle East, with estimates indicating a reduction of up to 67% for Patriot missiles and 48% for THAAD interceptors. It may take over three years to restock these missile systems to pre-war levels. Ongoing airstrikes against Iran have further strained U.S. air defense capabilities, prompting contracts for increased production of these critical interceptors.

U.S. air-and-missile defense systems are currently facing significant challenges in replenishing munitions stockpiles due to damage to AN/TPY-2 radars in Iran. The U.S. is relocating these critical assets from the Indo-Pacific and Europe, which may weaken defense capabilities in those regions. Manufacturing solid rocket motors for interceptors is complex, with issues related to demand signals and regulatory hurdles. New technologies, including liquid rocket motors, are being explored to enhance future capabilities.

On July 30, 2023, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked the U.S. military base in Azraq, Jordan, claiming to have destroyed 3 F-35 fighter jets and severely damaged 3 others. However, U.S. Central Command reported that no U.S. aircraft were destroyed or damaged, stating that all missiles and drones were intercepted or failed to reach their targets.

The U.S. conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets on September 29-30, 2023, following missile attacks from Iran. Iran retaliated with drone strikes on U.S. bases in Jordan, claiming significant damage to F-35 jets. Egypt confirmed drone attacks on its port, indicating a potential escalation of the conflict. Saudi Arabia also engaged in strikes against Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, further complicating the regional situation.

The U.S. Armed Forces continue military operations against Iranian targets, with ongoing airstrikes reported in Jordan, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Since the conflict began on February 28, 2026, 18 American service members have died. Iran has retaliated with missile strikes targeting U.S. bases, while CENTCOM reports numerous airstrikes against the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. successfully completed a trial of the SPYDER air defense system in Israel, demonstrating its capability to intercept multiple threats, including UAVs. The trial involved various scenarios simulating current and future threats, showcasing the system's advanced features and adaptability. SPYDER has been selected by Romania and the Czech Republic to enhance their air defense capabilities.

Iran is expected to receive a shipment of 300-400 Chinese-made shoulder-fired air defense missile systems within weeks. The deal, valued at $60-$70 million, includes QW-12 and FN-16 missiles and is part of Iran's efforts to strengthen its air defenses amid ongoing conflict with the U.S. and Israel. The agreement was signed with a Hong Kong-based intermediary, highlighting deepening military ties between Iran and China.

Iran's military continues to disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz using drones and missiles, despite suffering significant losses. US air superiority has not restored freedom of navigation, highlighting the challenges posed by low-altitude threats. The ongoing situation raises questions about the effectiveness of traditional airpower concepts in modern warfare.