Analysis & Reports

Brazil announced the return of 17 M60A3 tanks to operational service in January 2025, citing modernization delays. Taiwan is upgrading 40 of its M60A3 tanks, while Egypt and Turkey continue to enhance their M60 fleets. The M60A3 remains relevant due to its adaptability and ongoing upgrades, showcasing its effectiveness in various operational contexts.

Mexico selected the Canadian-made Roshel Senator MRAP armored vehicle for its armed forces and federal police after successful trials at the end of last year. The decision reflects the need for protected mobility platforms to confront threats from organized criminal groups. The Senator MRAP, built on a Ford F-550 chassis, is designed for high-risk environments and can be adapted for various missions.

Brazil officially unveiled its first domestically produced supersonic fighter jet, the F-39E Gripen, in São Paulo on March 25, 2023. This event marks a significant step in enhancing Brazil's defense technology autonomy, stemming from a $4 billion agreement with Sweden's Saab Group. The deal includes the acquisition of 36 aircraft and technology transfer to the Brazilian Air Force.

Caracal USA was awarded a government contract in March 2026 to supply CAR814 A2 Patrol rifles to various agencies in Belize. The rifles, designed for military and law enforcement use, are chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO and meet NATO standards. The agreement involves multiple government agencies and reflects ongoing cooperation in the region.

On 25 March, the Brazilian Air Force unveiled the first Gripen E fighter aircraft produced in Brazil at Embraer’s facility in Gavião Peixoto. The event was attended by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Swedish officials, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between Brazil and Sweden. The Gripen E is intended for various military roles and is part of a contract for 36 aircraft.

The first domestically assembled supersonic fighter jet, the F-39E 'Gripen', was unveiled in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo, on March 25, 2023. The Brazilian Air Force has begun operational deployment of the aircraft, which features advanced capabilities including air-to-air refueling and multi-role operations. It is set to replace older models such as the F-5 and AMX.

A naval task force from the Eastern Theater Command conducted realistic training exercises in a sea area, focusing on naval gunfire, resupply operations, and air defense. The exercises involved multiple vessels, including frigates and missile boats, and included the deployment of drones for reconnaissance. Coastal missile units were also activated to enhance combat readiness.

Leonardo acquired Iveco Defence Vehicles for €1.7 billion ($1.9 billion) to enhance its defense capabilities. This acquisition is part of Leonardo's strategy to strengthen its position as a leading Original Equipment Manufacturer in the land defense sector. The deal is expected to leverage the complementary strengths of both companies in providing integrated defense solutions across various platforms.

The Republic of Korea Air Force's first Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft completed its maiden flight in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The aircraft will undergo testing and integration to meet operational needs, confirming its progression towards service entry. Designed for diverse missions, it can carry up to 26 tons and operate from unpaved runways, enhancing its flexibility in various environments.

On 12 March 2023, the Netherlands signed a contract for three Damen Stan Patrol 5009 vessels to enhance the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard's capabilities. The new vessels will replace older models and are expected to be delivered by early 2029. Additionally, four Interceptors 1102 will be provided to support anti-smuggling operations and improve maritime surveillance.

The U.S. Armed Forces redeployed military assets, including THAAD interceptors and a carrier strike group, from the Indo-Pacific to the Middle East amid the ongoing Iran war. This shift has raised concerns among regional allies about American commitment to their security, as military operations in Iran and Venezuela have prioritized resources away from Asia. The financial burden of these operations has also strained U.S. military support for Taiwan and Japan, while China intensifies its military activities in the region.

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The U.S. Navy conducted sinking exercises (SINKEX) in the Arabian Sea and Caribbean Sea, sinking the decommissioned USS Tarawa and USS Dubuque on July 11 and 19, 2024. The exercises involved the use of advanced weaponry, including the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) launched from F/A-18F Super Hornets and QUICKSINK munitions demonstrated by B-2 Spirit bombers. These operations aimed to showcase U.S. military capabilities and send a strategic message to China regarding naval threats.

U.S. Marines employed the Vector unmanned aerial system during UAS operations at Camp Santiago, Puerto Rico, to support U.S. Southern Command missions. The Vector drone enhances real-time situational awareness and is capable of delivering high-resolution imagery for reconnaissance. This system allows for rapid deployment in confined areas and is designed to adapt to various mission requirements.

Hezbollah launched five rockets towards Central Israel on March 4 during an Iranian ballistic missile attack. Air raid sirens were activated across multiple locations in Central Israel, marking the first coordinated military action between Iran and Hezbollah in the ongoing conflict.

SIATT Engenharia and the Brazilian Navy signed a Memorandum of Understanding on February 23, 2026, in Rio de Janeiro to collaborate on the development of two Air-to-Surface Anti-Ship Missile systems, known as MARSUP. This initiative aims to enhance Brazil's Naval Power by creating domestically developed missile systems, leveraging technology from the existing MANSUP program.

Lockheed Martin transitioned the F-22 Raptor into its 'Raptor 2.0' configuration in 2026, integrating Low-Drag Tank and Pylon systems along with underwing IRST pods to enhance its capabilities. This modernization aims to improve the aircraft's range and passive-sensing abilities, ensuring air dominance in the Indo-Pacific. The U.S. Air Force continues to rely on the F-22 until the F-47 next-generation fighter is operational.

Iran launched missile attacks on Central and Southern Israel, triggering alarms. The Israeli Defense Forces are actively working to intercept these missiles. Earlier, Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced a preemptive strike against Iran, leading to this retaliatory action.

Cuba's Ministry of Interior reported the seizure of assault rifles, pistols, and other weapons from a boat that entered its territorial waters and exchanged gunfire with Cuban forces on February 25. A U.S. individual involved in the infiltration operation was arrested in Cuba, and the captured suspects indicated plans for a terrorist action.

The U.S. Air Force is modernizing the F-22 Raptor to the 'Super' Raptor standard by 2026, investing $9 billion in upgrades including the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile and advanced IRST systems. This modernization aims to ensure air superiority against adversaries like China and Russia. The Rapid Raptor program enhances deployment capabilities, allowing the F-22 to be operational within 24 to 48 hours.

The U.S. military is preparing for potential aerial strikes against Iran, with nearly half of its deployable air power already sent to the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford is on an extended deployment in the Mediterranean, while the Pentagon has evacuated non-essential personnel from Lebanon. Additionally, the U.S. military conducted a boat strike in the Caribbean, killing three individuals involved in drug trafficking. President Trump is considering an initial strike to pressure Iran regarding its nuclear capabilities.