Analysis & Reports

On March 1, 2025, three U.S. F-15E Strike Eagles were shot down over Kuwait due to a friendly fire incident during Operation Epic Fury. All six crew members ejected safely and were recovered, but three American service members were killed and five others seriously wounded. Kuwait's defense forces assisted in the recovery efforts.

U.S. Secretary of Defense stated that U.S. ground forces have not been deployed in Iran as of March 2. The mission aims to destroy Iran's missile capabilities and navy while preventing nuclear weapon development. The possibility of future actions remains open, with President Trump holding the authority to determine the timing of any operations.

U.S. Central Command launched a large-scale military operation against Iran following final orders from President Trump on February 27. The operation involves thousands of personnel and advanced aircraft, targeting over 1000 sites within the first 24 hours. The U.S. has achieved air superiority, while three F-15E jets were reported downed, with investigations ongoing. The operation aims to disrupt Iranian command and control capabilities.

Iranian drones and missiles attacked U.S. military facilities in Bahrain over the weekend, following U.S. and Israeli strikes on Tehran. The U.S. Naval Forces Central Command was among the primary targets, leading to the closure of Bahrain's airspace and suspension of civilian flights. The U.S. embassy advised American citizens to avoid certain hotels in Manama due to the threat of further attacks.

Spain refused to support U.S. military actions against Iran, leading to the withdrawal of 10 KC-135 refueling aircraft from Morón and Rota bases on March 2, 2023. Spanish Defense Minister Robles emphasized that military cooperation must operate within international law, and the unilateral actions by the U.S. lack backing from the UN, NATO, or the EU.

Rheinmetall completed the acquisition of NVL, the military division of the Lürssen Group, on 1 March 2026. This strategic move aims to establish a German systems house for developing advanced naval and coastguard vessels, enhancing Rheinmetall's capabilities in the defense technology sector. The company plans to address the increasing demand for naval forces and modernize its offerings in the maritime domain.

The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) conducted a massive air exercise involving over 200 aircraft across eight air bases in Western China in late 2025. This exercise, known as Red Sword, spanned an operational area of 1,200 nautical miles and included various aircraft types such as J-20 stealth fighters and H-6 bombers. The exercise is noted for its scale and secrecy, reflecting the PLAAF's growing capabilities.

Iran launched four ballistic missiles claiming to strike the USS Abraham Lincoln in the North Arabian Gulf, but U.S. Central Command confirmed the carrier was not hit. The operation, named Epic Fury, involved over 900 strikes by U.S. forces within the first 24 hours, showcasing advanced defensive capabilities against Iranian missile threats. The USS Abraham Lincoln continues to operate and support U.S. military efforts in the region.

The U.S. and Israel launched military strikes against Iran on February 28, 2023, resulting in the reported death of Iran's Supreme Leader Khamenei. The Pentagon expressed concerns about the potential depletion of U.S. air defense reserves as Iranian forces retaliated. U.S. military leaders warned that prolonged conflict could further strain resources, while Iranian officials affirmed their commitment to national security without plans to attack neighboring nations.

The Israel Defense Forces have begun a new round of attacks on Hezbollah targets in Lebanon as of local time on the 2nd.

ST Engineering secured a $372 million contract from Barzan Maintenance Shield to provide maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) services for the Qatar Emiri Land Forces.

Four U.S. troops were killed and several others wounded during military operations against Iran on March 1, 2026. The casualties occurred when an Iranian weapon struck a U.S. tactical operation center, reportedly located in Kuwait. U.S. Central Command confirmed ongoing operations, including extensive air and missile strikes against Iranian targets, resulting in significant losses for Iran, including the death of its Supreme Leader.

The Israel Defense Forces reported that on October 2, they conducted airstrikes in Tehran, destroying approximately 600 Iranian targets, including 150 ballistic missiles and launchers, and 200 air defense systems. Over 2500 bombs were dropped during these operations as part of the ongoing military action against Iran.

Dassault Aviation is set to introduce the F5 standard of the Rafale fighter post-2033, which will include a 'Loyal Wingman' UCAV and ASN4G hypersonic missile capabilities. The F4 upgrade, enhancing connectivity and precision, is expected to achieve full operational status by 2024. Despite a backlog of over 200 jets, the Rafale has seen a significant increase in foreign military sales, indicating strong international interest in its capabilities.

The U.S. Navy faces significant vulnerabilities to submarine attacks, as demonstrated by past exercises involving French, Swedish, and Chinese submarines successfully penetrating carrier defenses. The report highlights the threat posed by Russian Yasen-class submarines equipped with Zircon hypersonic missiles, which could disable carrier operations. This evolving threat necessitates a reevaluation of U.S. carrier strategies and defenses.

The U.K. awarded a £1 billion contract to Leonardo for the production of 23 AW149 helicopters at its Yeovil plant, securing 3,300 jobs. This deal enhances the U.K. Armed Forces' capabilities and positions Yeovil as a center for military helicopter production and exports. The Ministry of Defense anticipates that this contract could lead to over £15 billion in international orders over the next decade.

Germany and Türkiye ordered 20 Eurofighter Typhoon jets each in October 2025, enhancing their air capabilities. The Eurofighter is undergoing significant upgrades, including the integration of the MBDA Meteor missile and advanced radar systems, to maintain operational effectiveness until the 2040s. These developments position the Typhoon as a vital asset in modern air combat.

Space Force launched a new prototype for orbital warfare training from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, on February 12, 2023. This prototype aims to enhance the maneuvering capabilities of Space Force guardians in space. The GSSAP system, which includes satellites for space situational awareness, will support these operations. Space Delta 9 is designated to operate the new training asset.

Space Force launched a new satellite for orbital warfare training from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, on February 12. This satellite will enable Space Force guardians to conduct offensive maneuvers and avoid adversaries in orbit. Space Delta 9 will operate the satellite, which is distinct from previous training satellites. The initiative aligns with the Space Force's ongoing focus on developing capabilities for orbital warfare.

Russia continues its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2026, recruiting 30,000 to 35,000 personnel monthly while facing significant casualties exceeding 1.2 million since February 2022. The Kremlin has increased defense spending to at least $186 billion in 2025, adapting military strategies to sustain operations across multiple fronts, including Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhia. Despite demographic challenges, Russian forces are enhancing their capabilities with all-terrain vehicles and sleeper drones.

Dmitri VolkovMon Mar 02 2026Loading...