Source Files · Files collected October 3 to 9, 2026
This edition tracks the sharp edges of current conflict and competition: Russia's cheap missile innovations straining Ukraine's defenses, the real cost of U.S. combat operations against Iran in aircraft and munitions, and the deeper strategic questions of technology diffusion, AGI governance, and missile defense doctrine that will shape the next decade of great power rivalry.
1. Russian Inexpensive Quasi-Cruise Missiles: An Emerging Threat for Ukraine's Air Defenses
Institute for the Study of War · 9 pages · Oct 5, 2026 · Air defense threats
An ISW report on Russia's deployment of inexpensive quasi-cruise missiles like Banderol and Dan-T against Ukraine. These low-cost, maneuverable weapons strain Ukrainian air defenses and demand urgent countermeasures. Headline finding: Russia has integrated inexpensive, highly maneuverable quasi-cruise missiles (Banderol, Dan-T) into its strike packages to exploit Ukraine's air defense shortages. (p. 2)
Library page · Original source
2. U.S. Aircraft Combat Losses in Operation Epic Fury: Considerations for Congress
Congressional Research Service · 4 pages · Oct 5, 2026 · Combat losses Iran
A CRS brief tallying U.S. aircraft losses and damage during Operation Epic Fury against Iran. The scale of losses raises budget and force-sufficiency questions Congress must now weigh. Headline finding: The U.S. military reportedly lost or damaged 81 aircraft, including 45 MQ-9 Reapers, during Operation Epic Fury against Iran. (p. 1)
Library page · Original source
The two files above are free. The next four are where this week gets interesting.
3. U.S. Military Operations Against Iran: Munitions and Missile Defense (CRS). How long could it take before some interceptor stocks are fully restored?
4. Assessing Chinese and U.S. Technology Diffusion Capacity (RAND). Where does the U.S. still hold the edge over China in getting new technology into wide use?
5. Infinite Potential: Insights On Artificial Intelligence Loss of Control Across Five Scenarios (RAND). What kind of direct communication channel do the authors say is needed between rival governments?
6. Military Strategy Magazine, Volume 11, Issue 2: The Golden Dome, Missile Defenses and Deterrence (Mil Strategy Mag). What does the issue argue NATO has gotten wrong about military innovation?