Analysis & Reports

On May 16, 2023, U.S. forces conducted a successful operation resulting in the death of ISWAP leader Abubakar Mainok in Maiduguri. Concurrently, over 400 Starlink terminals were seized from insurgent networks, indicating ISWAP's logistical capabilities. The report also highlights recent attacks on schools and military brigades, demonstrating ongoing insurgent activity in the region.

Marie DuboisSun May 17 2026Loading...

A coalition of over 40 nations, led by the UK and France, is committed to reopening the Strait of Hormuz by deploying military assets for protection and mine clearance operations. The UK will send Eurofighter Typhoon jets and the HMS Dragon destroyer, while France will contribute the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier. Australia is providing the E-7A Wedgetail aircraft, and Belgium and Germany are repositioning minehunters to support the mission.

On April 25, 2026, JNIM and FLA conducted coordinated attacks across five Malian cities, including a suicide bombing that killed the Defense Minister in Kati. This operation marks a significant strategic shift, as JNIM, with 5,000 to 6,000 fighters, has initiated an economic blockade of Bamako, aiming to undermine the Malian state. The attacks reflect a growing sophistication in tactics and a new alliance between jihadist and secular separatist forces.

Marie DuboisFri May 15 2026Loading...

The USS Gerald R. Ford is returning to Naval Station Norfolk on Saturday after a record-breaking 324-day deployment at sea. During its mission, the carrier operated in the High North region and the Eastern Mediterranean, completing five Suez Canal transits. The deployment involved significant logistical operations and marked a historic achievement for the U.S. Navy.

U.S. Army leaders convened in Hawaii to stress the necessity of a military-industrial approach to deter adversaries in the Indo-Pacific. Gen. Xavier Brunson highlighted the importance of military strength and allied collaboration, noting South Korea's commitment to increasing defense spending. The U.S. military recently concluded Exercise Balikatan, showcasing shared defense responsibilities among allies.

The U.S. Department of War released the 2026 National Defense Strategy, emphasizing deterrence of China in the Indo-Pacific and homeland defense. The FY2027 budget request totals $1.45 trillion, with significant allocations for the Pacific Deterrence Initiative and Taiwan security. The strategy aims to enhance military readiness and allied burden-sharing while addressing the risks of reduced U.S. global presence.

Marcus ChenMon May 11 2026Loading...

On April 25, 2026, armed groups launched coordinated attacks in Mali, targeting Bamako, Gao, and Kidal, leading to the assassination of Defense Minister Sadio Camara. The Russian African Corps was expelled from Kidal, marking a significant setback for Moscow. Concurrently, the U.S. military increased its presence in Nigeria for counter-terrorism support, while Morocco emerged as a key trainer in the Flintlock 2026 exercise, involving nearly 1,000 elite troops from over 30 nations. The situation reflects a complex and evolving security landscape in the Sahel region.

Marie DuboisMon May 11 2026Loading...

U.S. missile stockpiles are at risk due to a blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, which has disrupted the supply of urea, a critical component for munitions manufacturing. The blockade has led to a 50% increase in urea prices and significant reductions in supply, impacting the U.S. military's ability to maintain its arsenal. Ongoing operations against Iran have further depleted munitions, raising concerns about the time required to replenish them to pre-war levels.

U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa continues search and rescue operations for two missing soldiers near the Cap Draa Training Area in Morocco since May 3, 2023. The search has expanded into the Atlantic Ocean, involving over 600 personnel and various aircraft. The soldiers went missing after one fell into the water while hiking near cliffs, prompting a large-scale search effort.

Firestorm Labs secured a $30 million contract from the Pentagon to deploy 200 Tempest drones and 5 xCell mobile manufacturing units in the Indo-Pacific. The Tempest UAV features a 400-mile range and can be configured for various missions. The xCell microfactory enables rapid drone production and repair in the field, addressing logistical challenges in military operations.

The U.S. Air Force approved a $508 million investment to equip its KC-135 Stratotanker, C-5 Galaxy, KC-46 Pegasus, and C-17 Globemaster III aircraft with active defense systems against incoming missiles. This initiative, driven by the threat of Chinese A2/AD missiles in the Indo-Pacific, marks a significant shift in the Air Force's approach to protecting its cargo and tanker aircraft. The funding will be allocated over the next five budgets through 2031.

Ukrainian drones struck the Nara military logistics complex in Narofominsk, Moscow Region, overnight on May 7. This facility serves as a key logistics hub for the Russian Ministry of Defense, and the attack is part of Ukraine's strategy to disrupt Russian supply chains. The timing of the strike, just before Russia's Victory Day, underscores its political significance.

A resurgence of piracy off the coast of Somalia occurred between April 20 and April 27, 2026, with at least three merchant vessels captured. The Puntland Maritime Police Force alerted EUNAVFOR about the capture of the fishing vessel Alkhary 2, followed by the boarding of the oil tanker MT Honour 25 and the cargo ship Sward. The UKMTO raised the threat level for Somali waters, indicating a significant deterioration in maritime security.

Marie DuboisTue May 05 2026Loading...

A Chinese military doctor served in UN peacekeeping missions in Mali and Abyei from 2019 to 2022, providing critical medical support and training. He encountered numerous dangerous situations, including bomb explosions, and was recognized for his outstanding performance. His experiences highlight the challenges and responsibilities faced by military personnel in conflict zones.

An engineering casualty on the USS Higgins disrupted electricity and propulsion for several hours while at sea in the Indo-Pacific. The crew contained the situation without injuries reported. Power has since been restored, but this incident marks the fourth fire affecting the fleet in recent weeks, with the cause currently under investigation.

The USS Higgins suffered an electrical fire while operating in the Indo-Pacific on Tuesday, resulting in a loss of power and propulsion for several hours. The crew of approximately 300 was rendered helpless during the incident, which was contained to a single piece of equipment and extinguished by the crew. This event marks the fourth significant fire on a U.S. Navy ship in just over a month, highlighting ongoing concerns regarding naval safety.

Russia's African Corps is conducting active combat operations in Mali, utilizing a combined aviation force that includes Mi-8AMTSh helicopters, Mi-24P attack helicopters, and Su-24 bombers. The operations are based out of Bamako and involve logistics support and strikes against rebel forces. This military presence signifies a substantial commitment to supporting Mali's armed forces in their ongoing conflict.

In November 1942, U.S. Army General George Patton commanded 39,000 troops during Operation Torch, leading the invasion of French North Africa. His forces captured Casablanca after three days of fighting, marking a significant turning point in the Allied campaign. Patton's leadership was crucial in overcoming initial setbacks and improving troop discipline, ultimately contributing to the success of the operation.

On April 25, 2026, the JNIM and FLA launched a coordinated offensive against multiple strategic locations in Mali, including Bamako and Kidal, involving 10,000 to 12,000 fighters. The offensive marks a significant territorial setback for the Malian government, highlighted by the assassination of Defense Minister Sadio Camara. The situation has escalated with JNIM blocking access routes to Bamako, leading to a humanitarian crisis as civilians are stranded.

Marie DuboisFri May 01 2026Loading...

On April 25, 2026, Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and Front de libération de l'Azawad (FLA) launched coordinated attacks on military installations across Mali, from Bamako to Gao, Kidal, Sévaré, Kati, and Bourem. This unprecedented offensive marks a shift towards conventional warfare by non-state actors. The Sahel region has seen a significant rise in violence, with over 9,800 deaths attributed to militant groups in 2025.

Marie DuboisFri May 01 2026Loading...