Analysis & Reports

Saudi Arabia requested over 10,000 JDAM-ER bombs from the U.S. on September 4, 2026, as part of a deal valued at over $5 billion. This request follows a series of Houthi attacks in southern Saudi Arabia, indicating an urgent need to rearm its strike aircraft. The JDAM-ER bombs will enhance the precision and range of Saudi airstrikes, although the deal also highlights the ongoing dependency on U.S. military support for operational capabilities.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Sep 09 2026Loading...

Leonardo's 30 mm X-Gun was selected for the Polish SAN C-UAS programme during the MSPO 2026 exhibition in Kielce, Poland. A contract was signed with Kongsberg for the supply of 18 CUAS batteries, which will include various weapon systems. The SAN programme aims to provide the Polish Army with a comprehensive counter-UAS system, supported by multiple European defense companies.

The USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carrier is facing severe operational challenges, including crew suicides and food shortages, after over eight months of deployment. These issues highlight the declining state of the U.S. Navy, which is struggling with personnel shortages and inadequate strategic planning. The situation has garnered media attention and congressional concern regarding the Navy's future capabilities.

The National Security Agency is utilizing artificial intelligence tools to enhance data processing and analysis efficiency. David Imbordino, head of the agency's cybersecurity directorate, stated that AI will allow analysts to identify anomalies more quickly. This initiative is part of the NSA's broader efforts to improve intelligence collection and cyber defense capabilities, as well as to comply with a recent executive order on AI.

China's navy has expanded to 350 ships, surpassing the US's 293. By 2030, China plans to increase its fleet to 435 ships, while the US aims to add 58 ships by 2031. The US Navy struggles with maintaining fleet readiness, with projections showing a readiness rate of only 68% by 2025. High costs and outdated regulations hinder US shipbuilding efforts.

U.S. forces captured deposed Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in January 2023, aided by CIA cyber operatives who provided critical intelligence. The operation, known as Absolute Resolve, was executed within four minutes of U.S. forces landing. Multiple intelligence agencies, including the NSA, supported the mission by monitoring communications and providing geolocation assistance.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg called for increased military support for Ukraine during an online meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group on the 8th. He emphasized that NATO countries had committed to providing 70 billion euros worth of military equipment to Ukraine by the end of the year. Germany announced it would supply Patriot air defense missiles and increase air-to-air missile supplies, while the UK pledged 100 million pounds for Ukraine's air defense assistance program.

The Central Military Commission is launching a direct recruitment initiative for military officers for the 2026-2027 period, targeting graduates from top-tier universities. Candidates must meet specific age and educational criteria, with recruitment taking place online from September 18 to September 30, 2026. Successful applicants will become active-duty military personnel and receive military ranks and benefits.

Winston Churchill delivered a speech in the House of Commons on November 11, 1942, discussing the complexities of victory in war. He emphasized that while victory is preferable to defeat, it brings its own challenges. Churchill's remarks were made following the Allied victory at the Second Battle of El Alamein, reflecting on the strategic decisions and difficulties that lay ahead for Britain and its allies.

China operates around 21 Type 039 Yuan-class submarines, which are designed for undersea warfare and can remain submerged for extended periods. These submarines are equipped with advanced weaponry, including Yu-6 torpedoes and YJ-18 missiles, and are strategically positioned in chokepoints in the East and South China Seas. The Yuan-class submarines represent a significant enhancement in China's naval capabilities, allowing for effective patrolling and ambush tactics against enemy vessels.

Iran demonstrated its capability to target U.S. aircraft carriers with the Qassem Basir missile, forcing evasive actions from the USS George H.W. Bush in 2026. The U.S. Navy's ability to maintain operational effectiveness is challenged by the potential for damage to carriers, which could render them combat-ineffective without sinking. The strategic implications of this capability highlight vulnerabilities in U.S. naval power projection, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz.

Congress passed the BRRRRT Act, mandating the US Air Force to retain 126 A-10 Warthogs in service until FY2033, despite the Air Force's plans to retire the fleet by FY2026. The A-10s have been actively deployed in the Middle East for counter-drone and anti-missile operations, highlighting their continued relevance. The legislation reflects ongoing debates about military resource allocation and the future of air support capabilities.

Ukraine is contracting approximately 1,000 Patriot missiles for air defense systems with the assistance of allies. The defense minister stated that most missiles will be delivered in the coming years and emphasized the need for urgent aid. Concurrently, Russia has resumed drone and missile attacks on Kyiv, leading to casualties in the capital and other regions.

The U.S. Army announced a new biodefense strategy at Fort Belvoir, Virginia, aimed at enhancing operational capabilities in biologically contested environments. This strategy includes five lines of effort to be implemented by 2035, focusing on recruiting biodefense experts, integrating biological sensors, and utilizing artificial intelligence for disease monitoring. The initiative is informed by lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic and aims to ensure readiness against various biological threats.

GDI Simulation, a subsidiary of MBDA, has acquired Agenium Group, enhancing their existing activities and industrial partnerships. This acquisition may have implications for the defense sector, although specific military applications are not detailed in the report.

The UK published a national space strategy focusing on defense and economic growth, planning to invest over £7.8 billion through 2030. The strategy prioritizes satellite communications, space domain awareness, and ISR capabilities, with a commitment to achieving space control by 2035. The MoD will invest £880 million in ISR and space control activities, emphasizing the development of sovereign space capabilities.

MBDA opened its first industrial facility in Czosnow, Poland, on 7th September, enhancing support for the Polish Armed Forces. The facility will serve as a service and technology center, improving maintenance for the PILICA+ program and fostering collaboration with Polish industry. The opening was attended by key officials, highlighting the commitment to Poland's defense capabilities.

Kongsberg Maritime ASA has entered into an agreement to acquire Steerprop in Oslo, Norway, on 7 September 2026. This acquisition aims to enhance Kongsberg's capabilities in Arctic propulsion systems, leveraging Steerprop's expertise and established portfolio. The deal is expected to provide broader offerings and stronger lifecycle support for customers in the Arctic vessel segment.

Poland is transitioning from a military gear buyer to an exporter, as stated by Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz during the MSPO show in Kielce on September 8, 2023. The Polish defense industry, led by PGZ, showcased a new heavy tracked infantry fighting vehicle and plans to produce 700 units for the Polish Army. Poland has also ordered 257 Borsuks and continues to procure military equipment from the United States.

Ukraine's forces are preparing for winter as Russia continues its strikes on critical infrastructure. The air defense package includes Patriot interceptors to bolster Ukraine's defenses during this critical period.