Analysis & Reports

Military chaplains are addressing the moral implications of AI in warfare, particularly regarding moral injury from AI-assisted decisions and drone operations. The U.S. Army is testing AI in targeting processes, and chaplains are preparing to support service members facing ethical dilemmas. Congress is examining the mental health impacts of drone operations, highlighting the need for understanding AI technology in military contexts.

BAE Systems OneArc received a contract from the US Army to integrate its Embedded Collective Training solution onto a platoon of combat vehicles at Fort Hood, Texas.

Pakistan's military announced its unconditional support for Saudi Arabia, pledging to defend religious sites in Mecca and Medina amid increasing Houthi attacks. The statement was made by a military spokesperson on the 17th, emphasizing the commitment to Saudi security. This follows a recent wave of assaults by Houthi forces, which Saudi Arabia claims included an attempted drone strike on Mecca.

The U.S. Army awarded Sikorsky a $234.5 million contract modification for the production of 16 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, increasing the total contract value to $356.3 million. Work will occur at Sikorsky’s Stratford, Connecticut plant, with an estimated completion date of June 30, 2028. This contract builds on a previous advance procurement deal and reflects the Army's ongoing investment in modernizing its helicopter fleet.

The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory increased funding for Castelion Corp.'s hypersonic missile development by $16.4 million, raising the total contract value to $37.2 million. The Blackbeard missile, designed to exceed Mach 5, will be developed at Castelion's facilities in Torrance, California, with work scheduled through June 30, 2028. The Navy has also significantly invested in the missile, aiming for large-scale production and integration into various platforms.

Anduril Industries was awarded an $85 million contract by the U.S. Air Force to develop computer-based design tools for future aircraft at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio. This contract, part of the VOLARE program, will run until September 17, 2036, and aims to enhance digital design methods for military aircraft. The initial task order is funded with $50,000 for fiscal 2026.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $47.4 million contract modification for engineering support of the Nuclear-Armed Sea-Launched Cruise Missile (SLCM-N) program on May 6, 2025. This marks the development of the first new nuclear weapon since the Cold War, with an expected delivery capability by 2034. The contract includes various technical support tasks and is primarily based in Washington, D.C., with additional work at Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor and Norfolk.

Perseus Defense tested a low-cost Mk-III interceptor missile at Yuma Proving Ground as part of a counter-drone experiment involving U.S. Northern Command and NORAD. The missile, costing around $2,500, is designed to physically strike drones, demonstrating a kinetic hit-to-kill approach. This testing is part of ongoing efforts to improve U.S. military capabilities against drone incursions, following incidents that exposed vulnerabilities in base defenses.

U.S. Army tested tethered unmanned aircraft systems (Te-UAS) at Fort Benning from July 27 to August 7 to enhance infantry unit capabilities. The drones, connected to ground vehicles, were evaluated for their ability to operate without battery limitations and improve communication in challenging terrains. The Maneuver Battle Lab is compiling feedback and performance data for future program decisions.

U.S. Marines tested the Mobile All-Domain Observation and Sensing System (MA-DOSS) at Twentynine Palms, California, on August 19, successfully detecting a vehicle that entered a live-fire training area. The system, which combines radar and AI technology, alerts operators to potential threats, allowing for uninterrupted training. This demonstration supports further investment in MA-DOSS as a replacement for the older G-BOSS system.

MSI-Defence Systems unveiled the TERRAHAWK RAPTOR remote weapon station at the DVD 2026 exhibition in Millbrook. This system is specifically designed for counter-drone operations and can be equipped with various weaponry, including machine guns and grenade launchers. It integrates with command-and-control systems to enhance air defense capabilities, responding to increased demand for specialized counter-drone systems across multiple markets.

IDV is introducing the latest generation of its VIKING Uncrewed Ground Vehicle (UGV) at DVD 2026 in Millbrook, Bedfordshire on 17 September 2026.

An F-16 fighter jet from the Texas Air National Guard crashed in Michigan on September 17, 2023, around 14:00 ET during a training mission. The pilot successfully ejected and is currently hospitalized. Residents within a one-mile radius were evacuated due to a hazardous chemical leak associated with the crash. The evacuation order was lifted later that evening.

Space Force leaders indicated that modernization efforts may slow due to Congress not passing a full budget for fiscal year 2027. They have requested $71.1 billion, but a continuing resolution has been enacted to maintain funding at 2026 levels, preventing new programs from starting. Approximately 10% of programs could be delayed, while efforts to streamline military purchasing are ongoing.

Admiral David Glasgow Farragut commanded the West Gulf Blockading Squadron during the Battle of Mobile Bay on August 5, 1864, leading an attack against Confederate fortifications. His famous command, 'Damn the torpedoes, full speed ahead,' became legendary despite disputes over its exact wording. The battle involved intricate naval maneuvers and resulted in a Union victory, solidifying Farragut's legacy in U.S. naval history.

U.S. Air Force planners are exploring the future of their tanker fleet, considering unmanned and optionally manned options for air refueling capabilities. Lt. Gen. Daniel Tulley indicated that advancements in technology, influenced by the Navy's MQ-25 Stingray, suggest that future air-refueling solutions may not require manned aircraft. The Air Force is currently purchasing KC-46 Pegasus tankers while also seeking funding for advanced tanker systems.

The Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins, Georgia, is hosting a three-day event from September 24-26 to honor the SR-71 Blackbird and its crew. The SR-71A 61-7958 holds the world speed record for air-breathing, manned aircraft at 2,193.167 mph, a record set by Maj. Gen. Eldon Joersz in 1976. The event will feature displays and discussions with former crew members and engineers.

Captain James Lawrence uttered the famous phrase 'Don't give up the ship' on June 1, 1813, during the War of 1812 while mortally wounded in the Battle of Boston Harbor. He died on June 4, 1813, and his legacy continues to inspire the U.S. Navy, with the phrase serving as a rallying cry for over two centuries. Lawrence's actions during the war, including capturing British vessels, solidified his place in naval history.

The U.S. Army awarded Sikorsky an additional $234 million for 16 Black Hawk UH-60 helicopters, increasing the total contract value to $356 million. Initial deliveries are scheduled for fiscal 2028, with potential for up to 150 helicopters over the next few years. The contract is undefinitized, allowing for flexibility in production and funding.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the B-1 Lancer and B-2 Spirit bombers to enhance fleet readiness and prepare pilots for the upcoming B-21 Raider. This decision was made during the 2026 Air, Space & Cyber Conference, where it was noted that the B-21 is set for delivery to Ellsworth Air Force Base in 2027. The Air Force is also implementing the North Star Readiness Campaign to improve the operational capability of its bomber fleet.