Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

Ukrainian Drones Attack Russia in the 2026 Elections — 350 Devices Change the Logic of War

Ukrainian Drones Attack Russia in the 2026 Elections — 350 Devices Change the Logic of War

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentPolitical-MilitaryHybrid

Ukrainian drones attacked Moscow on September 18, 2026, coinciding with the start of parliamentary elections, with over 350 drones involved. The attack included strikes on a refinery in Yaroslavl and a military airfield in Rostov. Ukrainian forces aim to increase the political cost of the ongoing war for Russia, while the Russian military adapts its defenses and missile capabilities in response to these drone threats.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Sep 18 2026
629 Drones and the Shutdown of the Oil Refinery — Russian Air Defense Enters the War of Attrition in 2026

629 Drones and the Shutdown of the Oil Refinery — Russian Air Defense Enters the War of Attrition in 2026

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentLogisticsHybrid

On September 18, 2026, Russian air defense intercepted 629 Ukrainian drones over Southern Russia. Concurrently, Ukrainian strikes led to the disruption of operations at the Syzran and Saratov oil refineries. The Russian Ministry of Defense reported the destruction of Ukrainian radar and electronic warfare systems, highlighting the ongoing military engagement and the shift towards a war of attrition targeting economic infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Sep 18 2026

Russian "Shaheds" Use Belarusian LTE Networks — A New Depth of Military Integration in 2026

Command & ControlMilitary OperationsWeapons & EquipmentHybrid

Russian drones are utilizing Belarusian LTE networks for command and control during attacks on Ukraine, as reported by Ukrainian officials on September 14, 2026. This development allows for more complex operations and enhances the effectiveness of the Shahed drones. The attacks have targeted the Rivne, Volyn, and Lviv regions, indicating a strategic use of Belarusian infrastructure to support Russian military actions.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Sep 16 2026
Russian jet "Shaheds" accelerate the drone war over Ukraine in 2026

Russian jet "Shaheds" accelerate the drone war over Ukraine in 2026

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Russia increased its drone operations by launching 102 Shahed drones overnight on September 14, 2026, while Ukraine is developing faster interceptors to counter this threat. The introduction of jet variants of the Shahed drones alters the dynamics of the air war, as they can evade detection and engage Ukrainian defenses more effectively. Ukraine continues to target Russian military infrastructure, including radar systems.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Sep 15 2026

UAV "Geranium" and Iranian Engineers Form a Russian-Iranian Military Technology Framework in 2026

Political-MilitaryWeapons & EquipmentStrategic

Iranian engineers are collaborating with Russian military technology sectors, focusing on UAVs and navigation systems as of 2026. Nearly 10,000 Iranian specialists are being trained in Russia, enhancing Iran's military capabilities. This partnership allows Iran to access advanced technologies while providing Russia with expertise in circumventing sanctions. The collaboration emphasizes dual-use technologies and the evolution of military systems.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovThu Sep 10 2026
The launch of "Yars" from Plesetsk to 6700 km — Russia's nuclear ritual in a year of budget crisis

The launch of "Yars" from Plesetsk to 6700 km — Russia's nuclear ritual in a year of budget crisis

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

On August 28, 2023, the Russian Strategic Nuclear Forces successfully launched an RS-24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missile from Plesetsk, reaching the Kura test range in Kamchatka. This event is part of a series of routine missile tests, occurring amidst heightened tensions with Ukraine and financial constraints within the Russian government. The launch underscores Russia's commitment to maintaining its strategic military readiness despite economic challenges.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSun Aug 30 2026
The "Wave Dome Guarantee" System Went into Series Production and Exposed the Crisis of Russia's Rear Air Defense

The "Wave Dome Guarantee" System Went into Series Production and Exposed the Crisis of Russia's Rear Air Defense

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

The Russian Armed Forces launched the 'Volna Kupol Garant' electronic warfare system into series production in August 2026 to counter Ukrainian drone operations. This system aims to disrupt Starlink communications by targeting satellites, primarily protecting stationary military assets. However, its effectiveness against mobile targets is limited, reflecting a shift in Russian military strategy in response to increased Ukrainian strikes on critical infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Aug 29 2026
Another 8,500 North Koreans for Russia show how Moscow is buying not only people but also military skills 2026

Another 8,500 North Koreans for Russia show how Moscow is buying not only people but also military skills 2026

Political-MilitaryMilitary OperationsWeapons & EquipmentStrategic

North Korea is preparing to send 8500 personnel, including 400 drone operators, to Russia in August 2026. This military exchange signifies a strategic partnership, allowing North Korea to gain modern warfare skills while providing Russia with needed manpower. The presence of drone operators indicates a shift in the nature of military cooperation, moving beyond mere supply of artillery to a more integrated military training and operational collaboration.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Aug 25 2026
Storm Shadow for Ukraine in 2026 and Threats to British Factories Highlight the Crisis of Russian Deterrence

Storm Shadow for Ukraine in 2026 and Threats to British Factories Highlight the Crisis of Russian Deterrence

Political-MilitaryWeapons & EquipmentStrategic

The UK is set to provide Ukraine with documentation for producing Storm Shadow missiles, prompting Russia to threaten British factories. This development indicates a shift in military strategy, as Russia perceives the potential for Ukraine to establish a distributed production capability. In response, Russia is likely to enhance reconnaissance and increase threats against Ukrainian industrial sites.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Aug 25 2026
Record 637 Drones Over Moscow — Capital Air Defense at the Limit of Its Capabilities

Record 637 Drones Over Moscow — Capital Air Defense at the Limit of Its Capabilities

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

A mass drone attack involving 637 drones targeted Moscow on the night of August 18-19, 2025, with Russian air defense intercepting 791 drones. Three injuries were reported, and civilian infrastructure sustained damage, including a fire at a logistics center. This incident highlights the challenges faced by Russian air defense systems in countering large-scale drone assaults.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Aug 19 2026
"Flamingo" vs "Dagger" — Ukrainian missile reaches Savasleyka airbase at a distance of 700 kilometers

"Flamingo" vs "Dagger" — Ukrainian missile reaches Savasleyka airbase at a distance of 700 kilometers

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

On August 15, 2026, the Ukrainian Armed Forces launched a strike using the 'Flamingo' cruise missile against the Savasleyka airbase in Nizhny Novgorod Oblast, reaching a distance of 700 kilometers from Ukraine. This operation also targeted the Samara rocket and space center, indicating a significant enhancement in Ukraine's missile capabilities. President Zelensky confirmed the strikes, which challenge previous assumptions about the safety of Russian military installations.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Aug 15 2026
120 KN-23 missiles and 90 North Korean rocket launchers in Voronezh — a new stage in the military alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang

120 KN-23 missiles and 90 North Korean rocket launchers in Voronezh — a new stage in the military alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Ninety North Korean soldiers are integrating into the 112th Missile Brigade in Voronezh, Russia, as part of a military alliance with North Korea. This includes the deployment of 120 KN-23 missiles, with the first 40 already delivered. The KN-23 missiles can strike targets in eastern and central Ukraine, enhancing Russia's military capabilities in the region. This development signifies a deepening military cooperation between Moscow and Pyongyang, with strategic implications for the ongoing conflict.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Aug 12 2026
S-400 near Gelendzhik destroyed by drones — five Russian air defense systems burned in one night

S-400 near Gelendzhik destroyed by drones — five Russian air defense systems burned in one night

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentLogisticsHybrid

Ukrainian drones destroyed an S-400 air defense system in Gelendzhik on the night of August 9, along with four other Russian air defense systems and three vessels in the Black Sea. This operation marks a significant escalation in Ukraine's campaign against Russian air defenses, targeting critical military assets deep within Russian-held territory. The attacks included the destruction of radar systems essential for the operation of the S-400, indicating a strategic shift in Ukraine's military capabilities.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSun Aug 09 2026
120 North Korean missiles near Voronezh — Pyongyang shifts from supplier to operator

120 North Korean missiles near Voronezh — Pyongyang shifts from supplier to operator

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

On August 5, 2026, Ukrainian intelligence reported that Russia is preparing to deploy North Korean missile units in Voronezh, including approximately 90 soldiers, 6 launchers, and up to 120 ballistic missiles (KN-23 and KN-24). This marks a transition for North Korea from merely supplying missiles to actively operating them alongside Russian forces, indicating a new level of military collaboration.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Aug 08 2026

Nuclear Umbrella of the CSTO — Moscow Officially Confirms the Possibility of Protecting Allies with Nuclear Weapons

Political-MilitaryWeapons & EquipmentStrategic

On August 3, 2026, Russia confirmed the potential use of nuclear weapons to protect its allies, as stated by its representative in Moscow. This announcement follows extensive military exercises involving 64,000 troops and various missile tests. The statement reflects a strategic shift in Russia's nuclear doctrine amid evolving European security dynamics, particularly concerning NATO's expansion and Finland's recent legislative changes regarding nuclear weapons.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Aug 07 2026
136 drones and "Iskander-M" showcase the new economy of Russian strikes on Ukraine

136 drones and "Iskander-M" showcase the new economy of Russian strikes on Ukraine

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

Russian forces launched a coordinated attack on August 3-4, 2026, utilizing 136 drones and 1 Iskander-M missile, targeting multiple locations in Ukraine including Rostov Oblast and Oryol. Despite 117 drones being intercepted, 14 drones successfully struck targets across 14 areas. This operation reflects a strategic shift in Russian military tactics, emphasizing a diverse array of strike capabilities.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Aug 04 2026
The 42% Drop in Rostec's Profit Limits the Production of Iskanders and T-90M in 2026

The 42% Drop in Rostec's Profit Limits the Production of Iskanders and T-90M in 2026

LogisticsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

Rostec Corporation reported a 42% decline in net profit in 2026, limiting its production of Iskander missiles and T-90M tanks. The company, which produces around 80% of military equipment used in the Ukraine conflict, is facing significant financial challenges, impacting its ability to meet defense orders. Various subsidiaries have also reported losses, indicating a broader issue within the Russian defense industry regarding production costs and profitability.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon Aug 03 2026
24 "Pantsir" Towers Around Moscow in 2026 Show the Cost of Long-Range Strikes

24 "Pantsir" Towers Around Moscow in 2026 Show the Cost of Long-Range Strikes

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsLogisticsHybrid

In July 2026, the Russian Armed Forces deployed 24 Pantsir air defense systems around Moscow in response to increased drone threats from Ukraine. This deployment includes additional Pantsir-SMD systems and S-400 systems, indicating a strategic shift in protecting critical infrastructure. Ukrainian drone strikes targeted various locations, including Rostov and Sarapul, prompting this military adaptation.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Jul 29 2026
24 New Pantsir Towers Around Moscow Show a New Geography of the Russian War

24 New Pantsir Towers Around Moscow Show a New Geography of the Russian War

Weapons & EquipmentLogisticsOperational

Twenty-four new Pantsir air defense systems were deployed around Moscow in July 2026, indicating a shift in Russian military strategy towards domestic defense. This deployment coincided with an increase in military personnel to 2,426,130, as President Putin recognized the need for enhanced internal security. Ukrainian forces continued to target Russian infrastructure, highlighting the evolving nature of the conflict.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue Jul 28 2026
Russia's ballistic missiles consume a month's production stock in July 2026

Russia's ballistic missiles consume a month's production stock in July 2026

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentLogisticsHybrid

In July 2026, Russian forces launched over 25 ballistic missiles and 125 drones against Ukraine, exceeding their monthly production capacity. Despite the extensive use of these weapons, the operations have not achieved a decisive breakthrough on the front lines. Ukrainian forces reported successful interceptions of many of these attacks, while also conducting strikes on Russian logistics and military targets.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Jul 25 2026