Analysis & Reports

On February 11, 2023, the FAA imposed a 10-day flight restriction over El Paso International Airport due to alleged drone incursions, later attributed to party balloons. Customs and Border Patrol deployed anti-drone technology without proper coordination with the FAA, prompting concerns from lawmakers and experts about interagency communication failures. The incident highlights potential future challenges in managing drone threats and airspace security as the Pentagon expands its counter-drone authorities.

The U.S. Army produced 526 units of the M60A2 'Starship' tank in the 1970s, featuring a 152mm gun-launcher and MGM-51 Shillelagh missile capability. However, it was phased out by 1981 due to reliability issues and operational complexity. The tank's design aimed to bridge the M60 and MBT-70, but it ultimately proved to be a disappointment in service.

The U.S. Navy approved the StormBreaker smart weapon for operational use on the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet on February 20, 2026. This approval enhances the Navy's precision strike capabilities, allowing engagement of mobile targets in adverse weather. StormBreaker is the only operational smart weapon that can engage both moving and stationary targets in all weather conditions, increasing the lethality of the Super Hornet fleet.

Two Tu-95MS strategic bombers from the Russian Aerospace Forces completed a planned flight over the Bering Sea, lasting over 14 hours, escorted by Su-35S and Su-30SM fighters. During the flight, foreign aircraft accompanied the bombers at certain stages. NORAD reported detecting multiple Russian military aircraft in the Alaskan Air Defense Identification Zone, confirming that these aircraft remained in international airspace.

The SR-71 Blackbird conducted high-speed reconnaissance missions, flying from Kadena Air Base in Japan to Beale Air Force Base in California. It operated at speeds exceeding Mach 3.2 and was never shot down. The aircraft was retired in the late 1990s due to high costs and the advent of satellite technology, creating an intelligence gap that the upcoming SR-72 aims to fill.

Two Tu-95MS strategic bombers from the Russian Aerospace Forces completed a planned flight over the Bering Sea on October 20, lasting over 14 hours. The mission was escorted by Su-35S and Su-30SM fighter jets, with foreign aircraft accompanying them at certain stages. These flights are part of regular operations in international airspace, adhering to international flight rules.

The U.S. has deployed an unprecedented military presence in the Middle East, including 18 F-35 fighters and two aircraft carriers, amid rising tensions with Iran. This deployment, which includes advanced air and naval assets, is intended to enhance U.S. military readiness and provide a defensive umbrella for Gulf Cooperation Council states. The buildup occurs concurrently with diplomatic negotiations regarding Iran's uranium enrichment program.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Feb 20 2026Loading...

The U.S. is conducting a major military buildup in the Gulf region, deploying significant naval and air forces, including USS Gerald R. Ford and USS Abraham Lincoln. This operation aims to pressure Iran regarding ongoing nuclear negotiations. F-22 Raptors and F-35As have been repositioned to bases in the region, while Iran has issued threats against U.S. naval forces. The situation reflects heightened tensions and strategic military posturing in the area.

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The U.S. Air Force deployed dozens of fighter jets, including F-22 Raptors and F-35As, to the Gulf, demonstrating operational readiness. On January 31, 2025, the 1st Fighter Wing conducted an Elephant Walk at Langley Air Force Base. This buildup of air power follows the successful Operation Midnight Hammer, where B-2 Spirits targeted Iranian nuclear sites. U-2 spy planes are also involved in intelligence missions, indicating a strategic pivot towards air-centric dominance in the region.

The U.S. military is preparing for potential airstrikes against Iran, with significant air power deployed in the Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and North Arabian Sea. President Trump has set a ten-day deadline for Iran to reach a meaningful agreement, or face consequences. Israel has stated it is ready for any situation, while Iran is simultaneously conducting military exercises and reinforcing its defenses. The situation remains tense as military readiness increases on both sides.

The U.S. Army canceled the M60A4 tank project, which aimed to enhance the M60 series, in favor of the M1 Abrams. The M60 main battle tank served as the Army's primary armored vehicle from 1959 to 1991, with over 15,000 units produced. Upgrades to existing M60 models continued through the RISE program until their retirement in 1997.

Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu threatened Iran with severe retaliation if it attacks Israel in response to U.S. military actions. He stated that Israel is prepared for any situation and is coordinating closely with the U.S. The U.S. is reportedly increasing its military presence in the Middle East and considering military action against Iran, with Israeli officials suggesting that such actions may occur sooner than anticipated.

The U.S. Army conducted its inaugural Best Drone Warfighter competition in Huntsville, Alabama, involving teams from active, Reserve, and National Guard components. The event tested drone operators' skills through obstacle courses and target identification scenarios. Col. Nicholas Ryan highlighted the importance of communication among operators and indicated plans to incorporate realistic threats in future competitions.

President Trump dispatched the USS Gerald R. Ford and additional warships to the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran. The deployment aims to pressure Iran into a nuclear deal, with military action considered if diplomacy fails. U.S. military assets, including various aircraft, are being positioned closer to Iran, while indirect negotiations continue to show some progress.

President Trump dispatched the USS Gerald R. Ford and additional warships to the Middle East amid escalating tensions with Iran. The deployment signals a potential military response if diplomatic negotiations fail, with U.S. military officials emphasizing readiness for action. Iran's leadership has responded with threats against U.S. naval forces, highlighting the ongoing standoff.

The Government Accountability Office reported that over 90% of troops with involuntary absences are eventually found dead, prompting commanders to assume these absences indicate potential danger. The report analyzed 295 cases from 2015 to 2024, revealing that most fatalities resulted from accidents or suicide. It criticized inconsistent policies across military branches regarding the classification and response to missing personnel, highlighting the need for urgent action to improve safety and mental health considerations.

The U.S. Army is fast-tracking the M1E3 Abrams main battle tank, with four prototypes set for soldier evaluation in Detroit by Summer 2026. This new tank features a hybrid-drive system and a remote-controlled turret, enhancing fuel efficiency and operational capabilities. The initiative aims to prepare soldiers for modern battlefield conditions, particularly against drone threats, and to gather feedback for further refinements before full operational capability is achieved in the early 2030s.

Four F-117 Nighthawks flew in formation during a recent sortie over the Antelope Valley. The aircraft, part of the 9th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, is set to retire soon after 25 years of service, having proven its capabilities during the Gulf War by successfully penetrating heavily defended targets. The F-117 redefined air combat with its stealth technology, influencing future aircraft designs.

The U.S. Army held its first annual Best Drone Warfighter Competition in Huntsville, Alabama, showcasing drone warfare skills among over 800 attendees. Soldiers competed in various lanes, including drone racing and innovation, to develop effective drone technology. The event aims to enhance training and operational capabilities in unmanned warfare, with future iterations potentially incorporating drone swarm tactics.

The U.S. Army conducted its inaugural Best Drone Warfighter Competition in Huntsville, Alabama, showcasing drone warfare skills among over 800 participants from various Army units. Competitors engaged in multiple lanes, including drone racing and innovation showcases, focusing on developing effective drone technology and skills. The event aims to enhance training and operational capabilities in unmanned warfare.