Secure World Foundation has released a study revealing significant global investments in military space capabilities. The United States, China, and Russia are leading the way, enhancing their abilities in satellite destruction, jamming, and overall space-based warfare. Countries like Australia, France, and India are also ramping up their space defense efforts, focusing on communications, intelligence, and electronic warfare. The report emphasizes that future conflicts are likely to involve space as a key domain. As a result, nations are reorganizing their military structures to better integrate and prioritize space operations. Original news
Tag: Analysis
Report Warns of China’s Rapid Advancement in Space-Based Military Capabilities
The Secure World Foundation’s 2025 Global Counterspace Capabilities report highlights China’s accelerated development of a wide range of counterspace weapons. The analysis outlines China’s focus on direct-ascent and co-orbital anti-satellite systems, directed energy weapons, electronic warfare, and rendezvous and proximity operations. These advancements are part of a sustained effort to strengthen Chinese military power in orbit. The report also notes the suspected deployment of an experimental satellite in geostationary orbit designed to conduct space-based jamming. Overall, the findings underscore growing concerns about the militarization of space and the vulnerability of orbital assets. Original news
U.S. Defense Industry Faces Stockpile Shortages Despite Innovation Leadership
The Ronald Reagan Institute’s third annual National Security Innovation Base report card, released Tuesday, highlights major concerns in U.S. defense modernization and capacity. While the U.S. leads in defense innovation, the report warns that “critical weapons” stockpiles are dangerously low, earning a D grade in that category. Vice President JD Vance stressed the urgency, stating that the U.S. “cannot defend its national security” without sufficient tank shells, artillery, drones, and advanced weapons systems. Despite receiving an A- for innovation leadership, the U.S. scored only a C in international cooperation. The findings highlight growing concerns over U.S. military readiness amid rising […]
NATO Tensions Under Trump Create Defense Opportunities for India
Rising tensions between President Donald Trump and NATO over defense spending could open new opportunities for India in the global defense market. During high-level White House talks, Trump questioned UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer on Europe’s ability to defend itself against Russia without U.S. support. The dispute is expected to push European nations to boost defense budgets, with Starmer already announcing increased UK military spending. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and EU defense commissioner Andrius Kubilius have emphasized India’s potential role in European defense supply chains. India aims to expand its defense exports and further integrate into global […]
U.S. Air Force Prepares RAF Lakenheath for Potential Nuclear Weapons Return
Ongoing construction at RAF Lakenheath in England suggests the U.S. Air Force may reintroduce nuclear weapons to the base for the first time since 2008. A Federation of American Scientists (FAS) report highlights upgrades to Protective Aircraft Shelters and new F-35A infrastructure, indicating preparations for a potential nuclear mission. While there are no confirmed reports of nuclear weapons being deployed, the base is being made ready to accommodate them. This development aligns with NATO’s evolving nuclear strategy amid rising tensions with Russia. The move signals a possible shift in U.S. and European deterrence postures. Original news
Germany’s F-35 Order Faces Uncertainty Amid Calls for Defense Independence
Analysts are raising concerns about the future of U.S. defense sales to Germany, particularly the $8.8 billion order for Lockheed Martin F-35A jets. Friedrich Merz, the CDU’s chancellor candidate, has pushed for greater German defense independence, casting doubt on ongoing U.S.-German military contracts. A Lockheed Martin spokesperson deferred political questions to the German government, emphasizing that the F-35 procurement is a government-to-government agreement. While some U.S. contracts, such as the CH-47F helicopter deal, are expected to proceed, analysts warn that Germany’s push for self-reliance could impact future sales. The shift reflects growing European efforts to reduce dependence on U.S. military […]
U.S. Losing Leadership in Space-Based Navigation, Expert Warns
Former Pentagon space policy official Marc J. Berkowitz warns that the U.S. has lost its leadership in space-based positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT), affecting both critical infrastructure and military operations. The aging GPS constellation remains vulnerable to jamming and spoofing, posing security risks. Berkowitz stresses the urgent need to deploy GPS IIIF satellites, which feature enhanced encryption and anti-jam capabilities. While the U.S. Space Force’s Resilient-GPS program aims to strengthen navigation with smaller satellites, Berkowitz argues it may not fully counter cyber and electronic warfare threats. The analysis underscores growing concerns over U.S. space security and military readiness. Original news
U.S. Urged to Accelerate Hypersonic Weapons Testing Amid Global Race
Yorktown Institute president Seth Cropsey warns that the U.S. is at a critical juncture in the development of hypersonic and counter-hypersonic weapons. He stresses the need for aggressive testing, as China and Russia rapidly advance their hypersonic capabilities. The U.S. conducted only two long-range hypersonic weapon tests in 2024, reflecting a risk-averse mindset within the Pentagon and defense industry. Cropsey argues that the next three annual defense budgets will be crucial in determining America’s ability to keep pace with global adversaries. The article highlights growing concerns over U.S. military preparedness in an evolving strategic landscape. Original news
RAND Study Proposes Using 4G/5G Networks to Counter Air Defenses in Taiwan and the Baltics
A new RAND study suggests leveraging 4G and 5G cellular networks to detect and jam mobile surface-to-air missile radars in defense of the Baltic states and Taiwan. Timothy Bond, a senior RAND fellow, noted that Taiwan’s network is over 50% 5G, while the Baltics primarily use 4G, making them potential tools for targeting enemy radars and jammers. The study highlights that Russian air defense radars and GPS jammers operate on frequencies detectable by 4G/5G systems, allowing them to help guide attacks on electronic warfare threats. This technology could enhance NATO and Taiwan’s ability to counter Russian and Chinese air defense […]
Experts Call for Reform in U.S. Arms Sales Process to Reduce Delays
Former Defense Security Cooperation Agency director Charles Hooper and former State Department official Mira Resnick argue that the U.S. arms sales process is outdated and causing unnecessary delays. They highlight issues with the 2012 Tiered Review System, which allows a single Congress member to block sales for non-defense reasons. To streamline the process, they propose a new Arms Transfer and Export Review Series (ATER Series) that would maintain oversight while expediting approvals. The ATER Series would introduce separate protocols for NATO allies and other countries, ensuring faster weapons deliveries. The reform aims to enhance U.S. defense cooperation without sacrificing accountability. […]
Tech Firms Gain as U.S. Military Shifts to AI and Software-Driven Systems
Palantir, SpaceX, OpenAI, and Anduril Industries are attracting investor confidence as the U.S. military prioritizes software, drones, and AI-driven technologies. The shift is influenced by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency, which pushes for reducing waste and expanding defense procurement to new players. As a result, Palantir’s market value has surpassed the combined worth of Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, and Northrop Grumman. This reflects a broader trend of technology firms gaining prominence in defense contracting over traditional military suppliers. The realignment signals a growing focus on software-based warfare and autonomous systems in U.S. defense strategy. Original news
Space Companies Push Satellite Servicing Amid Market Skepticism
Space companies specializing in satellite servicing and debris removal are striving to prove the economic viability of their operations despite skepticism from commercial satellite operators and cautious Pentagon interest. The key challenge is making services like debris removal and in-orbit refueling cost-effective and scalable, particularly for low Earth orbit satellites. Companies such as Starfish Space and Orbit Fab are developing solutions, but regulatory hurdles and market uncertainty pose significant obstacles. Industry success will depend on overcoming technical and financial challenges while demonstrating clear value to satellite operators. The push for sustainable space operations continues as firms work to gain traction […]
Top DOD weapons testers challenged by next-generation warfare
A recent report reveals that the Pentagon’s weapons testers lack the necessary facilities, tools, and expertise to evaluate advanced technologies like AI, hypersonics, cyber, and electronic warfare. While new policies and manuals aim to address these challenges, the Department of Defense still faces critical shortages in modern test ranges and resources to simulate evolving threats. The report highlights significant gaps in areas such as electronic warfare and cyber capabilities. It calls for urgent investment in testing infrastructure, workforce training, and modernization to keep pace with rapidly advancing military technologies. Original news
Biden administration slowed Ukraine arms shipments until his term was nearly done
A Reuters investigation found that U.S. military aid to Ukraine faced significant delays in President Biden’s final year due to congressional inaction, escalation concerns, and stockpile limitations. A poorly organized weapons-tracking system further complicated deliveries. While aid accelerated following Donald Trump’s election victory, it only returned to early war levels. By late 2024, Ukraine had received just half of promised stockpile aid and 30% of armored vehicles. Meanwhile, Ukraine lost nearly all land gained in 2023, with Russia advancing at a rate of territory equivalent to Manhattan every three days. Original news
US Urged To Build Strategic Supercomputer For Defense
Aaron Ginn, CEO of Hydra Host and co-founder of the Foundation for American Innovation, advocates for U.S. investment in a state-of-the-art supercomputer to strengthen military and industrial capabilities. He emphasizes that such a system would deter adversaries by providing superior computing power, enhancing national security, and supporting civilian applications. Ginn underscores the urgency of this investment as China advances its computing power and Taiwan faces growing threats. The proposed supercomputer would also boost American manufacturing and job creation, aligning with national semiconductor goals and the defense priorities of the new Trump administration. He notes that the cost of the supercomputer […]