Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Iran exempts ships from India, China, Qatar, and Iraq from Strait of Hormuz restrictions in November 2026 and turns the passage into a negotiation tool.
Iran exempted ships from India, China, Qatar, and Iraq from restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz in November 2026, transforming the passage into a negotiation tool. This move aims to reshape the perception of the Iranian blockade and facilitate political and economic exchanges. The U.S. Central Command reiterated that the blockade applies to all ships, highlighting the complexities of maritime safety and U.S. interests in the region.
Ahmed Al-RashidFri Nov 06 2026Loading...
The UAE tests the EDGE 155mm shell in 2026 and transforms ammunition into a test for defensive independence.
The EDGE Group successfully tested a 155mm artillery shell in the United Arab Emirates on November 3, 2026. This test, part of the HAZEEM program, aimed to enhance the UAE's defense independence by developing local ammunition production capabilities. The shell demonstrated accurate targeting and is intended to reduce reliance on foreign suppliers for military ammunition.
Ahmed Al-RashidThu Nov 05 2026Loading...
Israel’s F-35 and F-15 Plans Face a $4 Billion U.S. Aid-Leverage Test
The U.S. signaled potential changes to its $4 billion military aid to Israel during November 3-4, 2026, while maintaining readiness for conflict. Increased C-17 activity towards Israel and Kuwait suggests contingency logistics. The U.S. has stated there will be no immediate strike on Iran, but military options remain available. Gulf leaders are concerned about escalating tensions with Iran.
Ahmed Al-RashidWed Nov 04 2026Loading...
Israel invests $190 million in training SIGMA and PULS to offset the cost of the War of Attrition.
Israel signed a contract with Elbit Systems on November 2, 2026, investing $190 million to establish a training center for SIGMA and PULS artillery systems. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency of artillery operations and reduce costs associated with military training and equipment maintenance. The SIGMA system is set to replace older artillery, while PULS offers modular rocket capabilities.
Ahmed Al-RashidWed Nov 04 2026Loading...
Iran Targets American Patriot Defenses as Israel Reinforces Them in 2026 Ahead of a New Round of War
Iranian forces targeted US Patriot air defense systems on October 31, 2026, as part of a wave of attacks on US bases in the Middle East. In response, the US deployed additional Patriot systems and ten military transport aircraft to Israel, enhancing its defensive capabilities. This indicates a significant escalation in military preparations amid rising tensions between Iran and Israel.
Ahmed Al-RashidSun Nov 01 2026Loading...
Saudi Arabia strengthens energy facility protection with a $22.3 million contract to counter drones in 2026
Saudi Arabia contracted Powerus for a $22.3 million deal to deploy a drone detection and countermeasure system at energy facilities, announced on October 30, 2026, following a warning in Jazan. This initiative reflects a shift in military focus towards countering drone threats, highlighting the importance of a comprehensive defense network. The Saudi Civil Defense confirmed the end of a threat alert in Jazan after intercepting two drones linked to Houthi forces.
Ahmed Al-RashidSat Oct 31 2026Loading...The United States escorts 3,000 ships through Hormuz in 2026 and reveals the Gulf's reliance on American maritime deterrence.
U.S. Central Command reported that over 3000 commercial vessels transited the Strait of Hormuz with U.S. support in the past six months, facilitating the export of 1.5 billion barrels of oil from Gulf countries. Despite 95% of vessels passing safely, ongoing risks from Iranian threats keep oil prices elevated. Gulf states continue to depend on U.S. military capabilities for maritime security and operational coordination.
Ahmed Al-RashidMon Oct 26 2026Loading...
Saudi Arabia Expands Ballistic Missile Production in 2026 Reshaping Gulf Deterrence
Saudi Arabia is expanding its ballistic missile production capabilities at the Dawadmi facility, as revealed by satellite imagery on October 23, 2026. The new infrastructure is expected to enhance the production of solid-fuel rocket engines, allowing for missiles with heavier payloads and longer ranges. This development is viewed as a strategic response to regional threats, particularly from Iran, and reflects a shift towards greater military self-sufficiency.
Ahmed Al-RashidMon Oct 26 2026Loading...Saudi Arabia intercepts a Houthi ballistic missile over Riyadh and tests Gulf defense in 2026
Saudi Arabia intercepted a Houthi ballistic missile targeting Riyadh on October 25, 2026, following the interception of two other missiles aimed at Mecca and Medina. Concurrently, Aden International Airport faced missile attacks, with ongoing military operations reported in Taiz. The conflict is intensifying, requiring Saudi Arabia to allocate resources for city defense and protection of critical infrastructure.
Ahmed Al-RashidSun Oct 25 2026Loading...The U.S. Navy's USS George Washington Reloads and Embassy Evacuation Reveals Window for Striking Iran
USS George Washington is being resupplied with ammunition in the Persian Gulf as U.S. personnel are evacuated from certain Middle Eastern locations due to threats from Iran. U.S. intelligence warns that Iran is in the late planning stages for attacks on U.S. personnel. Conflicting reports suggest potential military action could occur soon or after the U.S.-Israel elections, indicating a complex and evolving situation.
Ahmed Al-RashidSat Oct 24 2026Loading...British Typhoon Fighters Protect Saudi Arabia in 2026 and Reveal the Limits of Gulf Air Independence
British Typhoon fighters are set to conduct air missions to defend Saudi Arabia against Houthi attacks starting October 20, 2026. This deployment underscores Saudi Arabia's ongoing reliance on external military support despite significant investments in its own defense capabilities. The UK also provided a Voyager aircraft for aerial refueling, enhancing operational sustainability. Additionally, the UAE is resuming financial support for southern Yemeni forces, indicating a complex regional military dynamic.
Ahmed Al-RashidTue Oct 20 2026Loading...
America and Iran 2026: Trump Signals MOAB and Tehran Expands Gulf and Hormuz Strikes
Trump indicated the U.S. could target the Beikaks facility near Isfahan, while Iran escalated strikes on maritime targets in the Strait of Hormuz. Reports suggest 12 vessels were targeted in a week, marking the highest activity since the conflict began. The situation has led to increased oil prices and heightened risks for maritime navigation in the Gulf.
Ahmed Al-RashidFri Oct 16 2026Loading...
EDGE and Brazil Sign Defense Memorandum in 2026 and Test Gulf Industrial Independence
EDGE Group signed a memorandum of understanding with the Brazilian Army and IMBEL in Abu Dhabi on October 13, 2026, to explore joint defense initiatives. This partnership aims to enhance local production capabilities and reduce reliance on foreign military systems. The agreement focuses on areas such as armored vehicles, munitions, and unmanned systems, indicating a shift towards industrial independence in the Gulf.
Ahmed Al-RashidWed Oct 14 2026Loading...
The United States Strikes a Commercial Ship in the Gulf of Oman and Turns the Blockade on Iran into a Test of Gulf Security
On October 10, 2026, a U.S. fighter jet struck a Panamanian-flagged cargo ship in the Gulf of Oman as it attempted to breach a maritime blockade against Iranian ports. This incident is part of a broader U.S. operation that has forced 135 ships to return from Iranian ports since July 2026, with significant implications for regional shipping and security.
Ahmed Al-RashidSun Oct 11 2026Loading...
Israel Receives First American-Made Tamir Missile in 2026 and Transforms Iron Dome into a Joint Production Network
On October 9, 2026, Raytheon-Rafael delivered the first Tamir missile manufactured in the USA to Israel. This marks a significant shift in the production of the Tamir missile, enhancing Israel's air defense capabilities. The new production line in Camden, Arkansas, will support the Iron Dome system and create a joint production network between the USA and Israel, improving logistics and supply chain resilience.
Ahmed Al-RashidFri Oct 09 2026Loading...
Saudi Arabia Begins Implementing the Mecca Defense Agreement After Houthi Attacks and Air Independence Test
Saudi Arabia activated the Mecca defense agreement on September 19, 2026, in response to Houthi missile attacks targeting Riyadh. A British Voyager tanker was deployed to assist Saudi fighter jets in maintaining air operations. Houthi forces launched multiple attacks on Saudi cities and oil facilities, prompting concerns over regional security and the impact on global energy supplies.
Ahmed Al-RashidSat Sep 26 2026Loading...
Saudi Arabia Faces Houthi Attacks in 2026 with British Support and Air Capability Gap
On September 22, 2026, Saudi Arabia faced renewed Houthi attacks while receiving British military support, including aerial refueling for its F-15SA fighters. Reports indicated Houthi attempts to strike the Saudi capital and a Saudi airstrike in Al-Mokha that killed six Houthi fighters. The situation reflects a shift from limited border threats to a broader aerial and missile conflict, highlighting the need for enhanced reconnaissance and operational independence for Saudi forces.
Ahmed Al-RashidTue Sep 22 2026Loading...
The closure of Hormuz and the Houthis' control over Bab al-Mandab test the Gulf's ability to protect its exports in 2026.
Italy announced it will send warships to protect its commercial vessels through Bab el-Mandeb on September 18, 2026, while South Korea reiterated it will not send combat troops to the Strait of Hormuz. The closure of the Strait of Hormuz and Houthi control of Bab el-Mandeb are testing the Gulf's ability to protect its exports. Saudi Arabia is resorting to ship-to-ship transfers to move oil due to threats from Houthi attacks.
Ahmed Al-RashidFri Sep 18 2026Loading...The depletion of Saudi Patriot missiles in 2026 after a Houthi drone near Mecca tests alliances
Saudi air defenses intercepted a Houthi drone near Mecca on September 15, 2026, highlighting concerns over the depletion of Patriot missile stocks amid ongoing threats. Houthi forces claimed attacks on military and oil facilities, prompting Saudi Arabia to seek defensive assistance from multiple countries. The incident underscores the challenges faced by Saudi Arabia in maintaining air defense capabilities against Houthi aggression.
Ahmed Al-RashidThu Sep 17 2026Loading...
The American-Iranian War Reveals Ammunition Shortages and Tests Saudi Arabia's Air Defense in 2026
On September 15, 2026, Saudi Civil Defense announced the end of danger in six cities, including Yanbu, amid alerts related to the US-Iranian war. Concurrently, reports revealed that the US Department of Defense has spent around $33 billion on military operations but is experiencing a shortage of certain munitions. The situation underscores the logistical challenges faced by both the US and Saudi Arabia in maintaining effective air defense capabilities against potential Iranian threats.
Ahmed Al-RashidTue Sep 15 2026Loading...
