Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Bosaso becomes the new American bet in Somalia — AUSSOM wobbles after 500 million dollars in logistics
The U.S. is expanding its military base in Bosaso, Somalia, following a meeting with U.S. General Claude K. Tudor Jr. This expansion aims to enhance counter-terrorism operations while the U.S. ends its support for the UN logistics office for AUSSOM. Puntland forces, supported by U.S. airstrikes and intelligence, have regained territory from ISIS. The operational costs of the UN support office are significant, raising concerns about the future of AUSSOM's logistics capabilities.
Marie DuboisMon Aug 03 2026Loading...
Mikhail Britnev delivers armored vehicles to Mali — Russia strengthens Africa Corps after 3,435 deaths
On July 25, 2026, a long column of armored vehicles and military trucks arrived in Bamako, Mali, delivered by the Russian cargo ship Mikhail Britnev. This shipment, which included BTR armored personnel carriers, was part of Russia's ongoing support for Africa Corps amid a severe security crisis in Mali, marked by increased attacks from armed groups. The logistical route involved transport through Togo and Burkina Faso, highlighting the complexities of military supply in the region.
Marie DuboisSun Aug 02 2026Loading...ISWAP kills 8 soldiers in Borno in 2026 — the Maiduguri-Dikwa road becomes the real front
Eight soldiers from the 24 Task Force Brigade were killed by an improvised explosive device on July 30, 2026, while escorting supplies along the Maiduguri-Dikwa route in Borno, Nigeria. This incident highlights the ongoing threat posed by ISWAP to Nigerian military logistics and operations in the region. The attack is part of a broader pattern of assaults aimed at disrupting supply lines.
Marie DuboisSat Aug 01 2026Loading...AUSSOM loses American funding in 2026 — Somalia faces the al-Shabaab test
Military leaders from troop-contributing countries met in Kampala on July 29, 2023, to address the future of the African Union Support and Stabilization Mission in Somalia (AUSSOM) after the U.S. announced it would cease funding after December 31, 2026. The mission, which currently relies on U.S. logistical support, faces significant challenges from al-Shabaab and uncertainties regarding its operational capacity without American assistance.
Marie DuboisFri Jul 31 2026Loading...
The JNIM Targets 44 Mines in the Sahel by 2026 — Gold Becomes a Battlefield
JNIM targets 44 mines in the Sahel, utilizing gold mining as a strategic operational base. The group controls local economies through taxation and logistical support, while conflicts related to mining occur predominantly outside the concessions. JNIM's tactics include transforming mining sites into semi-permanent bases, complicating military operations by regular forces. The situation is exacerbated by the presence of Russian forces, which do not effectively secure the area.
Marie DuboisThu Jul 30 2026Loading...
Anefis and Niamey reveal the urban push of JNIM against Mali and Niger in 2026
On July 18, 2026, at least 50 Malian soldiers were killed in an ambush near Anefis, while on June 18, 11 Nigerien soldiers and 2 civilians were killed in an attack on Niamey. JNIM is intensifying its urban operations against Mali and Niger, targeting military and logistical infrastructures. The cooperation between JNIM and FLA highlights a tactical alliance against the Malian Armed Forces and their Russian partners, despite differing political goals.
Marie DuboisTue Jul 28 2026Loading...Anefis 2026 — 50 Malian soldiers killed and the FLA-JNIM alliance challenges Africa Corps
On July 18, 2026, a joint convoy of Malian Armed Forces and Africa Corps was ambushed near Anefis, resulting in the deaths of at least 50 Malian soldiers. The attack was claimed by the Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA) and the Group for Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), indicating a tactical alliance against Malian and Russian forces. This incident underscores the logistical challenges faced by the Malian military in maintaining supply routes and security.
Marie DuboisFri Jul 24 2026Loading...
44 mines in Central Sahel under pressure — JNIM turns gold into a battlefield
The JNIM is transforming gold mining areas in the Sahel into conflict zones, exerting control through taxation and threats. Key locations include Inata, Boungou, and Gao, with significant incidents occurring within a 10 km radius of mining sites. Governments are responding by nationalizing sites and renegotiating contracts, while the JNIM continues to adapt its tactics to maintain influence over these economically vital areas.
Marie DuboisFri Jul 24 2026Loading...Anefis costs 50 soldiers in Mali — the FLA-JNIM tandem challenges Africa Corps
On July 18, a mixed convoy of Malian Armed Forces and Africa Corps was ambushed in Anefis, resulting in the deaths of at least 50 soldiers. The attack was claimed by the Front de libération de l'Azawad (FLA) and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), indicating a tactical alliance against the Malian forces. Africa Corps subsequently conducted drone strikes against the assailants, underscoring the ongoing military challenges in the region.
Marie DuboisWed Jul 22 2026Loading...JNIM and FLA Strike Mali in 2026 — 6.8 Million Displaced Report a War of Roads
On April 25, 2026, JNIM and FLA launched coordinated attacks across Mali, targeting Bamako, Kati, Gao, Mopti, and Sévaré. This operation disrupted military logistics and demonstrated their control over key supply routes, contributing to the displacement of 6.8 million individuals. The groups utilized advanced technology, including drones and cryptocurrencies, to enhance their operational capabilities.
Marie DuboisSun Jul 19 2026Loading...El-Obeid under threat from RSF — 100,000 displaced expose the new lock of Sudan
The Rapid Support Forces (RSF) are exerting pressure on El-Obeid, Sudan, where over 100,000 displaced individuals are surviving in camps with reduced rations. The G7 has urged the RSF to halt actions that could lead to civilian atrocities. The situation is critical as supply routes are threatened, impacting humanitarian aid and increasing the risk of a humanitarian crisis.
Marie DuboisSat Jul 18 2026Loading...ISWAP Fails at Cross Kauwa in 2026 — a Camera Exposes Foreign Relays in Borno
ISWAP attempted an infiltration at Cross Kauwa on July 11, 2026, but was repelled by Nigerian forces from the 19th Brigade, resulting in two soldiers injured. A recovered Sony camcorder revealed operational footage and connections to foreign facilitators. The attack aimed to loot medical supplies amid a cholera outbreak, highlighting logistical challenges for ISWAP. A foreign suspect was arrested and evacuated by the Nigerian air force.
Marie DuboisTue Jul 14 2026Loading...Mali and Algeria Reopen Their Skies 2026 While JNIM and FLA Tighten Anéfis
Mali and Algeria reopened their airspace after 15 months, while JNIM and FLA launched coordinated attacks on Anéfis and surrounding areas in April 2025. The control of Anéfis is critical for logistics between Kidal and Gao, and the situation has led to increased human rights abuses in the region. The Malian army faces significant challenges from these armed groups.
Marie DuboisTue Jul 14 2026Loading...Anefis besieged in Mali — JNIM and FLA set Africa Corps in the north in 2026
On July 5-7, 2026, JNIM and FLA insurgents launched coordinated attacks on multiple Malian military installations from Gao to Sévaré, with significant fighting reported near Anefis. Malian forces, supported by Russian paramilitaries from Africa Corps, faced ambushes and logistical challenges, leading to losses in reinforcements. The alliance between JNIM and FLA poses a new threat to the Malian military, complicating their operational capabilities in the region.
Marie DuboisMon Jul 13 2026Loading...Russia strengthens the AES in 2026 — Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso seek military depth
On July 9, 2026, Russia announced plans to strengthen military cooperation with the Sahel Alliance (AES) amid ongoing jihadist attacks in Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso. This cooperation aims to enhance military capabilities, including the provision of drones and electronic warfare systems. The AES faces challenges in maintaining security and effective military operations against insurgent threats in the region.
Marie DuboisMon Jul 13 2026Loading...Anéfis Encircled in 2026 — The Russian Convoy Ambushed Weakens Bamako
On July 9, 2026, a Russian convoy transporting Malian soldiers and Russian paramilitaries was ambushed near Tabankort, Mali. The FLA claims control of Anéfis, while Russian forces remain in the main camp. Coordinated attacks by the FLA and JNIM targeted several positions, indicating a serious military challenge for the Malian government. Reports also mention the destruction of military vehicles in ambushes against reinforcements.
Marie DuboisSun Jul 12 2026Loading...Boko Haram Reaches Oyo in Nigeria — 46 Hostages Released and a Strategic Flaw Revealed
Boko Haram conducted a kidnapping operation in Oyo, Nigeria, resulting in the release of 46 hostages after 56 days. The Nigerian Army, Police, and Department of State Services executed a successful rescue operation, arresting 8 kidnappers. This incident highlights a strategic vulnerability in a region not typically associated with Boko Haram's activities, as over 40 other children remain captives in Borno.
Marie DuboisSat Jul 11 2026Loading...Tillabéri Under Double Offensive — JNIM and ISSP Strike Niger in June 2026
ISSP launched attacks on military positions in In-Ates and Banibangou, Niger, on June 17, 2026, resulting in heavy losses for Nigerien forces. JNIM attempted an incursion at Niamey's airport the following day. On June 30, JNIM conducted further attacks in Makalondi, Torodi, and Diagourou, alongside operations in Burkina Faso, indicating a coordinated strategy between the two jihadist groups. The situation highlights the escalating conflict in the Tillabéri region.
Marie DuboisFri Jul 10 2026Loading...Am-Dafock exposes the Sudan-CAR border — 16,000 displaced people put MINUSCA under pressure
Armed groups attacked the MINUSCA base in Am-Dafock on June 30, 2026, injuring three Zambian peacekeepers. Over 16,000 displaced persons have gathered near the base, complicating humanitarian efforts. The attackers are reportedly affiliated with the FPRC and MDRPC, with possible involvement from RSF. This incident raises concerns about local security and the effectiveness of peace agreements in the region.
Marie DuboisWed Jul 08 2026Loading...Egypt opens the Octagon in 2026 — 22,000 acres to manage African crises
Egypt inaugurated the Octagon, a strategic military headquarters, on July 4, 2023, in the New Administrative Capital. The complex spans 22,000 acres and aims to centralize military command and crisis management to address regional threats. It is designed to improve data sharing and operational efficiency for the Egyptian Armed Forces.
Marie DuboisMon Jul 06 2026Loading...
