Analysis & Reports

U.S. military and intelligence officials are discussing support for Israeli airstrikes on Iran's missile facilities, as President Trump promised Prime Minister Netanyahu assistance if no agreement is reached with Iran. The discussions include air refueling and securing overflight permissions from other countries, although Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE have stated they will not permit their airspace to be used for such operations.

Trump expressed support for Israeli airstrikes on Iranian missile facilities if US-Iran negotiations fail. This promise was made during a meeting with Netanyahu in Florida. US military officials are discussing how to assist Israel, including air refueling and airspace agreements, while Jordan and Saudi Arabia have publicly stated they will not allow their airspace to be used for such operations.

Chinese Public Security Special Police teams participated in the 7th World SWAT Challenge in Dubai, achieving multiple awards. The Jiangsu SWAT team secured third place overall, while the Sichuan and Special Operations female teams placed second and third among female competitors. The Zhejiang SWAT team won two individual event awards, showcasing their professional skills and spirit of competition, furthering international law enforcement cooperation.

Russia showcased new weapons, including the 300-mm 'Sarma' rocket system and BTR-22 armored personnel carrier, at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh from February 8-12, 2026. Despite ongoing sanctions, Russia continues to expand its artillery production capabilities using imported machinery. The defense industry aims to leverage combat experience in Ukraine to secure export contracts, although this reliance on foreign technology poses long-term risks to its military production capabilities.

Alexandra ReevesSun Feb 15 2026Loading...

Iran emphasizes its inalienable right to peaceful nuclear energy, rejecting any political pressure against it. Iranian officials assert that they do not seek nuclear weapons and are open to verification. Meanwhile, the U.S. has increased military presence in the region, threatening military intervention. Negotiations regarding nuclear issues are set to continue in Geneva on October 17.

Saudi Arabia seeks to acquire 48 F-35A aircraft, raising concerns in Israel about military superiority. Israeli media reports that this acquisition could undermine Israel's qualitative military edge. The U.S. is caught between supporting Saudi Arabia and maintaining its commitment to Israel's military capabilities. The operational readiness of the F-35s is also a concern, as Saudi Arabia may not have enough trained pilots to operate them effectively.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

Iran declared its missile program as a non-negotiable element of its defense strategy in response to U.S. President Trump's ultimatum. The U.S. Navy increased its military presence in the Middle East with the deployment of two aircraft carriers. Gulf states, including Saudi Arabia and the UAE, are investing billions in U.S. defense systems to counter potential Iranian threats.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Feb 14 2026Loading...

Iran's Defense Secretary Ali Shamkhani announced that the country will respond decisively to any reckless actions against it. He emphasized that Iran's missile systems are a non-negotiable red line and stated that Israel cannot act without U.S. support. Shamkhani also noted Iran's high military readiness and warned that any miscalculations would lead to severe consequences. Indirect negotiations between Iran and the U.S. are ongoing in Muscat, Oman.

Saudi Arabia concluded the Global Defense Exhibition 2026 in Riyadh on February 12, 2026, signing 220 agreements, including 60 arms contracts worth 33 billion SAR. The event highlighted the country's ambition to localize 50% of military spending by 2030, with a current localization rate of 25%. The exhibition featured significant international participation, including a notable absence of major Emirati companies, reflecting rising tensions.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Feb 13 2026Loading...

Exail opened a new office in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, on February 11, 2026, to enhance its operations and support local customers and partners. This move aims to strengthen customer support and foster long-term partnerships in the region, addressing local operational needs effectively.

Estonian officials engaged in discussions with Saudi Arabia in Riyadh to explore defense procurement cooperation during the World Defense Show 2026. The talks, led by Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur, aim to establish a memorandum of understanding between the nations' procurement agencies. Estonia seeks to increase its defense exports significantly by 2030, while Saudi Arabia's GAMI supports the development of its military industries.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu expressed skepticism about the potential for a U.S.-Iran agreement during his visit to the United States on February 12, 2020. He stated that while President Trump believes a deal is possible, he has concerns about its implications for Israel's security. Netanyahu insisted that any agreement must prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons and limit its missile capabilities.

NATO launched the 'Arctic Sentinel' military operation on November 11 to enhance security in the Arctic and High North region. This initiative aims to unify the actions of its 32 member countries and is seen as a response to U.S. President Trump's threats regarding Greenland. However, there are concerns that this operation may simply be a rebranding of existing efforts rather than a new military necessity.

On February 10, 2026, a Chinese military attaché presented a J-20 Mighty Dragon stealth fighter replica to Iran’s Air Force Commander, indicating a potential shift in China's export policy. This development raises concerns about Iran acquiring advanced air capabilities that could challenge Israel's F-35I Adir, altering the regional military balance.

Hamas officials declared they will not disarm as long as Israel continues its military actions in Gaza. They expressed a commitment to a ceasefire but accused Israel of violating agreements. The Israeli Defense Forces are reportedly planning new offensives to disarm Hamas, which has resulted in significant casualties since the ceasefire began.

Turkish Aerospace is nearing a decision regarding Saudi Arabia's involvement in the KAAN fighter program, with discussions on a potential sale of 20 aircraft or local production. The company aims to finalize arrangements by 2026, aligning with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 goal for increased domestic defense production. Additionally, TA is advancing its Anka 3 UAV prototypes and expects timely delivery of F110 engines for the KAAN.

Iran imposed a nationwide internet blackout in January 2026, affecting 92 million citizens, to suppress dissent following protests. The National Information Network (NIN) remains only 60% operational, leading to significant economic losses of $36 million per day. The Iranian government escalated its military actions against Starlink to prevent communication and has intensified threats against journalists reporting on the protests.

UKR ARMO TECH announced its intention to expand into the Middle East defense market while increasing production capacity for potential export demand. The company showcased its DESNA multi-purpose tactical vehicle and GYURZA-03 MRAP-class platform at the World Defense Show in Saudi Arabia, attracting significant interest from defense officials and military delegations. This move reflects a shift towards international outreach as Gulf states modernize their ground forces.

Emirati defense companies withdrew from the World Defense Exhibition in Riyadh on February 9, 2026, signaling a significant political shift in military relations with Saudi Arabia. This absence, involving around 30 companies, reflects the deteriorating trust and cooperation between the two nations, particularly following military tensions in Yemen. The situation highlights the UAE's strategic use of its defense industry in regional politics.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Feb 12 2026Loading...

Iran's Foreign Minister reiterated the possibility of a fair agreement on a peaceful nuclear program during celebrations for the 47th anniversary of the Islamic Revolution on November 11. He emphasized the importance of dialogue over conflict and stated that Iran will defend its sovereignty and dignity at all costs.