Kyle Mizokami

4 days ago | 19fortyfive.com | Kyle Mizokami

Key Points – The SR-72 “Darkstar,” envisioned as a hypersonic successor to the iconic SR-71 Blackbird, is designed to fly at Mach 6, twice as fast as its predecessor, and capable of both surveillance and strike missions. -While its dramatic portrayal in Top Gun: Maverick captivated audiences, the real-life aircraft likely remains a conceptual project.

6 days ago | 19fortyfive.com | Kyle Mizokami

Key Points: The US Army’s recent cancellation of the M10 Booker armored vehicle program is viewed as a positive development, as the platform was already an outdated solution for infantry fire support. -Originally intended as a lightweight vehicle, the 42-ton Booker failed to meet key deployability requirements.

1 week ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Kyle Mizokami

Key Points: After Boeing secured the F-47 NGAD contract in March 2025, Lockheed Martin unveiled plans for an upgraded “fifth-generation-plus” F-35, integrating technologies from its own NGAD bid. -Tentatively called F-35D, this concept aims to deliver approximately 80% of the F-47’s capability at 50% of the cost, primarily through internal modifications like advanced sensors, EW, weapons integration, or even lasers, while retaining the F-35 airframe.

1 week ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Kyle Mizokami

Key Points: The Montana-class battleships were envisioned as America’s most formidable warships during World War II, exceeding even the legendary Iowa-class in size and firepower. -Planned with unprecedented armament—including twelve powerful 16-inch guns and superior armor protection—the Montana-class was designed specifically to counter battleships like Japan’s Yamato.

1 week ago | nationalsecurityjournal.org | Kyle Mizokami

Key Points: General Dynamics’ AbramsX technology demonstrator presents a vision for modernizing the M1 Abrams tank with features like a lighter chassis, hybrid engine, unmanned turret, autoloader, 3-person crew, and integrated drones. While offering significant advancements, the final configuration chosen by the US Army might diverge.