Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Army awarded Lockheed Martin a $1.2 billion contract for the Precision Strike Missile Increment 2 system, designed to target maritime threats. This missile can travel up to 500 km and features a multimode seeker. The contract's work locations will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of September 13, 2031. This follows the successful launch of the first PrSM Increment 2 missile earlier this year.

Algeria and Mali resumed diplomatic dialogue on September 15, 2026, signaling a thaw in relations after months of tension. The two nations aim to enhance cooperation on security issues in the Sahel, recognizing the need for joint efforts to address instability. Algeria's strategic position and local connections may facilitate this cooperation, although the effectiveness will depend on involving local actors in the process.

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Turkey has certified the Hürkus-II military training aircraft as safe and airworthy, marking the first time this process was conducted entirely by Turkish personnel. The certification involved verifying 1,790 requirements and conducting 153 tests. This achievement is seen as a strategic milestone for the Turkish aviation industry and enhances Turkey's capabilities in developing future air platforms.

Iran's National Security Council Secretary Mohsen Rezaei announced that Iran will not engage in negotiations with the U.S. unless its conditions are met, highlighting a shift in the situation regarding oil and the Strait of Hormuz. U.S. President Trump indicated an open attitude towards negotiations but stated that military actions would not be considered until after the November elections. The previous memorandum of understanding between the two nations was compromised shortly after its establishment.

Chinese Defense Minister General Dong Jun welcomed defense ministers from Myanmar, ASEAN, Brunei, Belarus, Azerbaijan, Kyrgyzstan, and Armenia at the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum on September 15. Discussions focused on military cooperation, regional stability, and the importance of partnerships in addressing global security challenges. The forum has been a key platform for international defense dialogue for 20 years, emphasizing peace and collaboration among nations.

Canada is reviewing its fighter aircraft procurement plans, considering a mix of 88 Lockheed Martin F-35A and Saab Gripen E fighters. The F-35A scored 57.1 out of 60 points for military capability, significantly outperforming the Gripen E, which scored 19.8. The acquisition cost for the fighter project has risen to C$27.7 billion, excluding additional infrastructure costs. Saab is prepared to support Canada with Gripen production and training if selected.

South Korea is developing its own nuclear-powered submarines under the Chang Bogo N Project, with plans to launch the first vessel in the mid-2030s. The South Korean government has allocated $74.4 million for initial research and design, aiming to enhance its naval capabilities in response to North Korea's military advancements. The submarines will utilize low-enriched uranium and will not be equipped with nuclear weapons, focusing instead on monitoring North Korean threats and protecting trade routes in the Indo-Pacific.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) is hosting an Industry Day on September 30 in Arlington, Virginia, to discuss the BEAMERS program, which focuses on developing next-generation electronic-support systems. The event will feature classified presentations and is limited to U.S. citizens with a SECRET clearance. Registration is capped at 120 attendees, and foreign nationals must submit additional documentation to attend. No formal solicitation for the program has been issued yet.

A Russian warship fired two emergency flares at a Danish military helicopter over the Baltic Sea on September 14, 2026, during a routine monitoring operation. Denmark's Prime Minister condemned the action as reckless and summoned the Russian ambassador to protest. This incident is part of a series of confrontations between Danish forces and Russian vessels in the region, highlighting escalating tensions.

The keel-laying ceremony for the third fleet intelligence vessel was held in Wolgast, Germany, with Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius announcing plans for a fourth vessel. The new Class 424 vessels will enhance the German Armed Forces' intelligence capabilities and are set to enter service from 2029. The ceremony highlighted the collaboration between the Bundeswehr and the maritime industry in advancing naval capabilities.

The keel-laying ceremony for the third fleet intelligence vessel took place at Rheinmetall’s shipyard in Wolgast, attended by high-ranking officials including Federal Minister of Defence Boris Pistorius. Pistorius announced plans for a fourth vessel, emphasizing the advanced sensor technology of the new Class 424 vessels, which will enhance maritime intelligence capabilities for the German Armed Forces starting in 2029. Three vessels are currently under construction, highlighting the importance of the maritime industry in the region.

The documentary 'Collateral Damage (NAZA)' reveals alleged war crimes by the Israeli military in the Gaza Strip, winning a special jury prize at the Venice Film Festival. Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu condemned the film, claiming it incites anti-Semitism and misrepresents the military. The film features interviews with 24 Israeli intelligence officials and soldiers, with claims of indiscriminate killings. Following its release, several Israeli officials threatened to revoke the filmmakers' citizenship.

NRDC-ITA conducted a Study Day focusing on space and cyber readiness, emphasizing interoperability among military forces. This event highlights ongoing efforts to enhance military capabilities in these critical areas.

The revised National Defense Mobilization Law in China will take effect on October 1, 2026, allowing the People's Liberation Army to mobilize civilian resources during crises. This law aims to enhance the PLA's logistical capabilities by integrating civilian assets, including personnel and infrastructure, into national defense efforts. The implications of this law have raised concerns among neighboring countries regarding regional security dynamics.

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In 2025, over 80% of general criminal cases involving U.S. military personnel in Japan were not prosecuted, with only 21 out of 134 cases leading to prosecution. The majority of these crimes occurred in Okinawa Prefecture, highlighting the implications of the U.S.-Japan Status of Forces Agreement, which grants legal privileges to U.S. forces. This situation reflects longstanding issues regarding the accountability of U.S. military personnel in Japan.

Canada aims to deepen its involvement in the Japan-UK-Italy next-generation fighter jet project, seeking to become a formal member. On September 10, 2023, Canadian Ambassador Ian McKay stated that Canada will contribute its advanced technology in aircraft, radar, and satellite systems. This collaboration is part of a broader effort to strengthen defense cooperation among friendly nations in the Indo-Pacific region.

Military representatives from nearly 100 countries and regions arrived at the Beijing Xiangshan Forum held from September 15 to 17, 2023. The event featured over 60 attendees at the ministerial and general officer level, showcasing broad regional representation and strong inclusivity.

The White House sent Hung Cao's nomination to serve as Secretary of the Navy to the Senate on September 1, 2023. Cao, who has been Acting Secretary since April, has over 20 years of naval service and requires a waiver to assume the position due to retirement regulations. Other nominations for Navy leadership were also submitted to the Senate.

Experts emphasize the need for trust in AI systems within the U.S. Air Force to effectively counter drone threats. Discussions at the Air and Space Cyber Conference highlighted the importance of Directed Energy weapons and the challenges of integrating AI into military operations. The military is urged to adapt to evolving threats posed by AI.

Debate over the future of the TraCSS program is intensifying as the Department of Commerce and the Department of Defense face critical budget decisions. The White House proposed significant cuts to the program, which Congress partially restored, but concerns remain about its effectiveness and alignment with the 2018 Space Policy Directive-3. Discussions include potential privatization of space traffic management amid rising satellite and debris numbers, increasing collision risks.