Analysis & Reports

Canada's Army is developing a potential replacement for its aging Leopard tank fleet and a new medium cavalry vehicle while maintaining a commitment of approximately 2,200 personnel in Latvia. The modernization strategy faces challenges due to underfunding and an aging fleet, with the Leopard tanks expected to remain operational until around 2035. The Army's efforts are part of a broader initiative to enhance its armored capabilities and meet NATO commitments.

President Trump announced plans to outsource the construction of Navy ships to foreign shipyards, specifically advocating for the 'Finland model' in Washington. This model allows for initial vessels to be built abroad, with future work to be done domestically. The proposal faces significant political opposition in Congress, which has imposed restrictions on foreign shipbuilding. Analysts warn of both technical and political challenges in integrating foreign-built ships into the U.S. Navy.

Australia is extending the service lives of its six Collins-class submarines and purchasing three Virginia-class submarines from the United States as an interim measure. The AUKUS agreement aims to bolster the Royal Australian Navy's capabilities with new submarines expected to enter service in the 2030s and 2040s. However, U.S. shipbuilders are struggling to meet production demands, raising concerns about the timeline for delivering new submarines.

Ukraine's Alfa special operations unit has conducted drone strikes over the past month, targeting Russian supply routes and destroying nearly 2,400 vehicles. The operations focus on oil infrastructure and logistics, aiming to cut off Russian forces from essential supplies. Notable strikes occurred in Dzhankoy, Crimea, and Toropets, utilizing various Ukrainian-made drones.

ARX Robotics and Roboneers delivered 30 unmanned ground vehicles to Ukraine's Defense Forces for logistics, casualty evacuation, and ammunition resupply. The Rys Pro UGVs can carry up to 300 kg and have a range of 40 km, extendable to 80 km. This delivery enhances the operational capabilities of the Ukrainian forces, which have been utilizing such systems in various missions.

Oshkosh Defense and Marine Depot Maintenance Command produced a replacement part for Marine Corps heavy trucks at facilities in Japan and Georgia during Exercise Valiant Shield 2026. This production utilized a secure digital blueprint, enhancing logistics capabilities for military operations. The exercise took place from June 22 to July 1, 2026, involving U.S. Pacific Command forces and allied partners across multiple services.

SubSea Craft completed a strategic investment for a 40% equity interest in LORILLION on 14 August 2026 in Coventry. This investment aims to enhance the UK's sovereign capability to design and manufacture specialist battery systems for defense and other sectors. The partnership will expand LORILLION's engineering team and support the development of SubSea Craft's advanced maritime platform, VICTA, which is intended for covert maritime operations.

President Trump ordered the U.S. Navy to redesign the fourth Ford-class aircraft carrier, USS Doris Miller, to use steam catapults instead of electromagnetic systems on August 13, 2023. This decision, which may cost billions, aims to enhance the carrier's operational flexibility and is set to begin construction by the end of the year. The first three Ford-class carriers will continue to use the electromagnetic system.

Conti Federal Services LLC was awarded a $78 million contract to construct ordnance storage magazines at Naval Air Station Sigonella, Italy. The project includes four earth-covered magazines and a maintenance facility, scheduled for completion by August 2030. This facility will support U.S. Navy operations in the Mediterranean, enhancing logistics capabilities.

Denmark has commissioned Rheinmetall to supply the Multi Ammunition Softkill Systems (MASS) decoy system and Omnitrap-ER decoys for its naval forces, with the contract signed on 14 August 2026 in Copenhagen. Deliveries are set to begin in the fourth quarter of 2027, marking a significant enhancement in naval defense capabilities for Denmark and aligning with other Scandinavian navies.

Marine Hydraulics International LLC was awarded a $119.4 million contract by the U.S. Navy for the maintenance and repair of the USS San Antonio (LPD 17) in Norfolk, Virginia, announced on August 13, 2026. The contract covers labor, supervision, and equipment necessary for the scheduled maintenance, with completion expected by July 2028. The USS San Antonio recently returned from deployment supporting various operations.

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors practiced hot-pit refueling with MC-130J Commando II aircraft at Kadena Air Force Base in Japan during a recent exercise. This operation allows for rapid refueling and rearming, enhancing mission efficiency and support for ground troops. The F-22, a fifth-generation stealth fighter, plays a crucial role in maintaining air superiority.

The 79th Group Army conducted a three-day military exercise in an unknown complex terrain, focusing on equipment maintenance and emergency response. Troops faced simulated enemy attacks and equipment failures, utilizing drones for reconnaissance and recovery. The exercise aimed to enhance logistical capabilities and operational readiness during the summer heat.

The U.S. Army spent $6.9 billion on the RAH-66 Comanche helicopter program, completing only two prototypes before its termination on February 23, 2004. The program was canceled due to cost overruns and a shift in military priorities, redirecting funds towards acquiring 796 new aircraft and upgrading existing helicopters. Both prototypes are now displayed at the U.S. Army Aviation Museum in Fort Novosel, Alabama.

In June 2026, all five active Astute-class submarines of the Royal Navy were out of service for maintenance, with only HMS Agamemnon undergoing sea trials. The UK is grappling with manpower shortages and outdated infrastructure, impacting its naval readiness amid increasing Russian naval activity near British waters. Defense Minister John Healey resigned due to funding disagreements, highlighting ongoing challenges in maintaining the Royal Navy's operational capabilities.

HMS Vanguard (S28) underwent extensive maintenance at HMNB Devonport from 2015 to 2022 due to a reactor leak, resulting in a 7.5-year delay. The Royal Navy faced significant logistical challenges and mismanagement during this period, leading to increased costs and operational downtime for this critical nuclear submarine.

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin stated that the U.S. military can indefinitely maintain its maritime blockade against Iran. As of August 13, 2023, the U.S. Navy has forced 59 merchant ships to change their routes and rendered 3 ships incapable of navigation. The blockade is part of ongoing operations in the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran claims to have full control.

President Trump ordered the return of steam catapults to Ford-class aircraft carriers and announced the establishment of a new public shipyard for submarine repairs in Washington. The decision aims to address delays in submarine maintenance and restore traditional systems to the carriers. The USS Ford, currently using EMALS, will be affected by this change, which has raised concerns about production risks and implications for national security.

The U.S. Army is addressing four key capability gaps in its acquisition programs during the annual Space and Missile Defense Symposium in Huntsville. Brig. Gen. Robert Mikesh outlined challenges in propulsion, targeting, and munitions diversity, emphasizing the need for a balanced mix of affordable and advanced weaponry. Lt. Gen. John Rafferty noted the importance of low-cost interceptors to counter various threats.

Iran retained and maintained a fleet of 79 F-14 Tomcat fighters purchased from the U.S. in 1974, despite sanctions and logistical challenges. Over the years, Iran adapted by cannibalizing parts and developing domestic manufacturing capabilities. However, by 2026, the combat effectiveness of the fleet was nearly zero, with many aircraft destroyed in recent strikes.