Analysis & Reports

Ukrainian drone commanders will brief U.S. policymakers on modern drone warfare at the Ground Truth Symposium in Washington on March 25. The event will focus on integrating drone technology into air defense systems and share lessons learned from Ukraine's experience in the ongoing conflict. Representatives from various Ukrainian drone units, including the Lazar Group and the 414th UAV Brigade, will participate.

Ukrainian drone commanders will brief U.S. policymakers on modern drone warfare at the Ground Truth Symposium in Washington on March 25. The symposium will focus on Ukraine's expertise in drone tactics and technology, particularly in light of recent conflicts. Ukrainian interceptors have successfully destroyed a significant percentage of incoming Shahed drones, showcasing their effectiveness in air defense.

James Michael Fisher was acquitted of charges related to the 2017 KC-130 plane crash that killed 16 service members in Itta Bena, Mississippi. The crash was attributed to a corroded propeller blade that was not repaired by Air Force maintenance. The investigation revealed systemic negligence in maintenance practices, leading to the grounding of similar aircraft.

Norwegian F-35s intercepted Russian Ilyushin Il-20M reconnaissance aircraft off the coast of Norway on March 10 and 11, 2026, during the NATO Cold Response 2026 exercise. The Russian aircraft, which had its transponder switched off, was monitored as it flew along the Norwegian coast before returning to the Kola Peninsula. This incident is part of ongoing quick-reaction alert missions by the Norwegian Air Force against unidentified Russian aircraft.

Ecuador will launch a major offensive against criminal organizations in Guayas, Los Ríos, and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas from March 15-30, 2023, with logistical support from the United States. An 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew will be enforced to facilitate troop movements. The operation aims to dismantle violent criminal groups linked to drug trafficking.

USS Florida (SSGN 728) completed a 727-day deployment starting in August 2022, operating across the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. The submarine, armed with 154 Tomahawk missiles, showcased US military capabilities and deterrence amid rising global tensions. Despite its significant role, USS Florida is scheduled for retirement in 2026, raising concerns about a potential conventional strike gap in the US Navy's capabilities.

The U.S. Navy conducted sinking exercises (SINKEX) in the Arabian Sea and Caribbean Sea, sinking the decommissioned USS Tarawa and USS Dubuque on July 11 and 19, 2024. The exercises involved the use of advanced weaponry, including the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) launched from F/A-18F Super Hornets and QUICKSINK munitions demonstrated by B-2 Spirit bombers. These operations aimed to showcase U.S. military capabilities and send a strategic message to China regarding naval threats.

The U.S. military has been reported to extensively use AI tools in military operations against Venezuela and Iran, raising significant ethical concerns regarding warfare. China's defense ministry has expressed opposition to the unrestricted militarization of AI, emphasizing the need for human oversight in military applications. The U.S. Secretary of Defense has been advocating for an 'AI-first' combat force, which has prompted discussions about the implications of AI on military ethics and sovereignty.

The Philippine Navy deployed a new BrahMos anti-ship missile unit at Cape Bojeador on Luzon Island. This unit, operated by the 273rd Marine Battalion, aims to block the Luzon Strait, enhancing deterrence against Chinese naval movements. The BrahMos system has a range of about 300 kilometers and can reach speeds of up to Mach 3. This deployment is part of the Philippines' alignment with U.S. strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

The U.S. Navy is implementing a retention bonus program worth $120,000 over three years for eligible naval flight officers and aviators. This initiative targets Training and Administration of the Reserve officers with command experience to encourage them to remain on active duty. Applications are open until August 28, 2023, as part of efforts to maintain combat readiness and develop a total force strategy.

Thales launched STORM 2, a new cyber and electromagnetic activities node aimed at supporting soldiers against evolving drone threats. This system enhances capabilities in countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS).

Iran continues to ship large amounts of crude oil to China through the Strait of Hormuz despite military threats and attacks on vessels. Since February 28, 2026, approximately 12 million barrels have transited the strait, with the majority officially destined for the People's Republic of China. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has targeted vessels, but analysts believe a long-term blockade of the strait would harm Iran's own interests.

The Pentagon confirmed the identity of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan, one of six soldiers killed in a March 1 drone strike at Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. The soldiers were part of the 103rd Sustainment Command and were the first American casualties of Operation Epic Fury. Their remains were returned to the U.S. on March 7, 2023.

USS Abraham Lincoln participated in combat operations against Iran starting February 28, 2026. A sailor aboard the carrier was photographed wearing a morale patch representing Stone Brewing's Arrogant Bastard Ale. The image was published on March 1, 2026, capturing the crew during flight operations.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) introduced the Merkava Mark 5 Barak tank, featuring advanced technologies such as AI-driven target processing and the Trophy Active Protection System. This tank is designed for high-intensity urban warfare expected in 2026 and has a proven combat history since its debut in 1982. The latest model was unveiled in September 2023 and is scheduled for acceptance testing in January 2024.

The U.S. Air Force faces criticism for focusing on air denial rather than air superiority, which is crucial for operational success. Recent conflicts in Ukraine and Iran demonstrate that without air superiority, military operations become constrained and costly. The report emphasizes the need for the U.S. to reaffirm its commitment to achieving air control to effectively project power and sustain operations.

The U.S. Army may relocate THAAD air defense systems from South Korea to the Middle East as the conflict with Iran escalates. President Lee Jae Myung stated that while South Korea cannot prevent the U.S. from moving its assets, the country's defenses remain adequate against North Korea. Reports indicate that military transport aircraft have been seen departing for the region, and the U.S. THAAD inventory is being tested amid ongoing operations.

U.S. air defense systems, including THAAD, may be relocated from South Korea to the Middle East as the conflict with Iran escalates. South Korea's President Lee Jae Myung stated that the U.S. could dispatch these systems abroad, although he emphasized that South Korea's defenses are adequate against North Korea. Reports indicate that military transport aircraft have been moving to and from the region, highlighting the ongoing adjustments in U.S. military deployments.

Germany has overtaken China to become the fourth-largest arms exporter globally, with a market share of approximately 5.7%. This shift is attributed to increased European defense spending and military assistance to Ukraine, while Russia's exports have significantly declined. China ranks fifth, focusing more on domestic military production than on exports.

The National WWII Museum hosted a symposium in New Orleans on March 13-14, exploring General Patton's legacy and influence on military history. Historians discussed how public perception of Patton is shaped by the 1970 film portrayal, emphasizing his contributions to armored warfare and military doctrine. The event featured discussions on the mythology surrounding Patton and aimed to unravel the complexities of his character and impact.