Analysis & Reports

Israeli strikes targeted Iranian F-14 Tomcats at Mehrabad Airport in Tehran in June 2025, raising concerns about the operational status of Iran's fleet. Iran inherited around 80 F-14s, but due to decades of sanctions and parts scarcity, estimates suggest only a small number remain flyable. The strikes have further degraded Iran's air combat capabilities, as the F-14s are now largely considered unusable in a conflict.

The U.S. Navy deployed the USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Carl Vinson to conduct continuous air patrols over Iran, focusing on degrading missile production capabilities. This deployment includes various land-based fighters and advanced jamming systems to counter Iranian air defenses. The operation aims to limit Iran's missile production and ensure regional security against potential threats.

The U.S. Department of State approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Jordan involving Ku band multi-function radio frequency system (KuMRFS) radars valued at $280 million.

EDGE Group signed a Defence Industry Cooperation Framework with the Republic of Korea’s DAPA in Abu Dhabi on 27 February 2026. This agreement marks a significant milestone in defense cooperation, valued at approximately $35 billion, focusing on integrated air defense systems, advanced aircraft capabilities, and maritime power. The signing took place during a high-level visit from South Korea, highlighting the strong bilateral defense partnership.

The United States has deployed six E-3 Sentry AWACS aircraft to Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia and F-22 Raptors to Al Dhafra Air Base in the UAE, preparing for potential conflict in the Persian Gulf. Concurrently, Iran has conducted military exercises demonstrating its missile capabilities and positioned ballistic missile launchers along its coastline. Diplomatic tensions are rising within the Gulf Cooperation Council as the UAE opposes military operations against Iran from its territory.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Feb 27 2026Loading...

ST Engineering secured a €315 million contract to provide maintenance, repair, and overhaul services for military land platforms to the Qatar Emiri Land Forces, commencing in the second quarter of 2026. The contract includes the implementation of digitalized MRO processes and aims to enhance operational readiness and lifecycle management of military equipment in Qatar.

Iran completed the modernization of one of its Kilo-class submarines at its primary naval hub near the Strait of Hormuz on February 16, 2026. This upgrade comes in response to increased U.S. naval deployments in the region and aims to enhance Iran's undersea capabilities. The Kilo-class submarines are crucial for Iran's asymmetric naval strategy, allowing them to complicate U.S. operations in the Persian Gulf.

Saudi Arabia is showcasing its national flag on foreign defense platforms at the World Defense Show, indicating potential future defense deals. This event is taking place outside Riyadh in 2026, highlighting the transformation of the Saudi defense industry.

The U.S. military is assembling its largest force of warships and aircraft in the Middle East in decades, including two aircraft carrier strike groups, in response to tensions with Iran. This buildup involves at least 16 ships and over 100 fighter jets, with significant deployments to bases in Saudi Arabia, Israel, and the Arabian Sea. The U.S. aims to deter potential Iranian aggression amid ongoing threats from President Trump regarding military action if nuclear negotiations fail.

The U.S. Air Force operates only 19 B-2 Spirit bombers, facing a strategic gap in airpower due to high maintenance costs and a reliance on these aircraft for critical missions, including nuclear capabilities. The B-2's operational status has been impacted by a 2022 landing mishap and ongoing maintenance challenges, prompting concerns about the future of U.S. airpower until the B-21 Raider becomes operational in the 2030s.

The U.S. Army is developing the M1E3 Abrams tank to enhance its capabilities against evolving threats like FPV drones and Kornet ATGMs. The Army Science Board has warned that the current M1 Abrams will be inadequate for future warfare by 2040. Despite its distinguished combat record, the tank has faced significant losses in conflicts in Ukraine and Yemen, prompting a shift towards more advanced technology and design.

Orbit Communication Systems secured a $3.2 million follow-on contract from the Israeli Ministry of Defense for satellite communication systems on February 26, 2026. The systems will enhance connectivity across various satellite constellations, ensuring reliable communications in challenging environments. This contract includes the Multi-Purpose Terminal (MPT) SATCOM systems, designed to meet demanding defense operational requirements.

The U.S. is conducting a significant military buildup in the Persian Gulf, deploying two carrier strike groups and numerous aircraft in preparation for potential military action against Iran. Concurrently, Iran is enhancing its military capabilities along its southern coast, particularly near the Strait of Hormuz, and has engaged in arms deals with Russia and China. Diplomatic negotiations continue, but the situation remains tense as both sides prepare for possible conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Feb 26 2026Loading...

The B-2 Spirit remains the only bomber capable of delivering the GBU-57 Massive Ordnance Penetrator to destroy deeply buried nuclear facilities in Iran as of June 2025. With only 19 units in service, the U.S. Air Force relies on this stealth bomber for its unique capabilities in penetrating advanced air defenses. The B-2's operational range allows it to project air power globally, making it a critical asset in U.S. military strategy.

U.S. Vice President Vance announced that evidence indicates Iran is attempting to rebuild its nuclear program following U.S. airstrikes in June. On February 25, 2023, President Trump claimed that Iran has developed missiles capable of threatening Europe and U.S. bases. In response, Iran's Foreign Ministry labeled the U.S. accusations as falsehoods.

Aselsan reported $4.11 billion in revenue for 2025, marking a 15% increase from the previous year. The Turkish defense electronics company secured over $2 billion in new export contracts, including a $410 million deal with Poland for electronic warfare systems. Additionally, Aselsan's backlog rose to $20.4 billion, reflecting a 46% increase. The company emphasized its focus on air defense systems and invested significantly in research and development.

The M60A3 Patton tank remains operational in 2026, having undergone significant modernization to enhance its combat capabilities. It serves in various military forces, including those of Egypt, Turkey, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Taiwan. The tank's upgrades, such as the laser rangefinder and Tank Thermal Sight, have ensured its relevance on the battlefield.

The U.S. Navy is deploying EA-18G Growler aircraft to conduct electronic warfare against Iranian air defenses as part of a potential air campaign in 2026. This follows a €500 million deal between Russia and Iran for advanced air defense systems. The Growlers will utilize the ALQ-99 Tactical Jamming System to suppress enemy defenses, while the presence of modern Russian weaponry poses challenges to their mission.

USS Gerald R. Ford is deploying to Haifa, Israel, to join USS Abraham Lincoln in response to escalating tensions with Iran. The F-35C Lightning II aircraft aboard these carriers are expected to provide air superiority and electronic warfare capabilities, enhancing the U.S. Navy's operational reach and effectiveness against Iranian air defenses. The deployment underscores the strategic importance of advanced naval aviation in potential conflict scenarios.

Iran prepares to launch missile salvos against U.S. bases at Al Udeid, Al Dhafra, and Prince Sultan Air Base if conflict arises. The Iranian Armed Forces aim to disrupt U.S. operations using Fateh-110 and Zolfaghar missiles. While U.S. defenses are in place, the initial hours of conflict present a significant threat to American military infrastructure.