Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

The D Brief: US-Israel strikes continue; Hormuz closed; 4 US dead, ID’d; SOF join Ecuador drug ops; And a bit more.

The D Brief: US-Israel strikes continue; Hormuz closed; 4 US dead, ID’d; SOF join Ecuador drug ops; And a bit more.

Military OperationsCasualties & LossesLogisticsHybrid

A U.S. Navy submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, resulting in significant casualties. Four U.S. service members were killed in a drone strike in Kuwait. NATO air defenses successfully intercepted an Iranian ballistic missile targeting Turkey. Concurrently, U.S. military operations against drug traffickers in Ecuador are ongoing, and a U.S. military base in Qatar was struck by a ballistic missile.

Source: Defense OneWed Mar 04 2026
US Southern Command says it launched military operations in Ecuador aimed at ‘narco-terrorists’

US Southern Command says it launched military operations in Ecuador aimed at ‘narco-terrorists’

Military OperationsPolitical-MilitaryOperational

U.S. Southern Command and Ecuadorian forces launched joint military operations against narco-terrorist groups in Ecuador on March 3, 2026. This operation marks the first ground action in South America since the U.S. military returned to a former base in Ecuador. The mission aims to combat drug trafficking and violence inflicted by designated terrorist organizations.

Source: Task & PurposeWed Mar 04 2026

Iran and Hezbollah Coordinate Attacks on Central Israel

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

Hezbollah launched five rockets towards Central Israel on March 4 during an Iranian ballistic missile attack. Air raid sirens were activated across multiple locations in Central Israel, marking the first coordinated military action between Iran and Hezbollah in the ongoing conflict.

Source: Global TimesWed Mar 04 2026
A candidates assigned to Delta Company, Officer Candidates Class-221, breaks the surface of the murky water of 'The Quigley' at Brown Field, Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., on March 15, 2016. The mission of Officer Candidates School (OCS) is to "educate and train officer candidates in Marine Corps knowledge and skills within a controlled, challenging, and chaotic environment in order to evaluate and screen individuals for the leadership, moral, mental, and physical qualities required for commissioning as a Marine Corps officer." (U.S. Marine Corps Photo by Cpl. Patrick H. Owens/Released)

The U.S. Army’s Delta Force Has To Be Superhuman

Military OperationsForce MovementOperational

Delta Force successfully captured Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife in Caracas as part of a high-stakes operation. The unit's rigorous training regimen includes intense physical activities and combat drills, preparing them for diverse operational environments. Their training philosophy emphasizes endurance and adaptability, enabling flawless execution in missions.

Source: 19FortyFiveTue Mar 03 2026

Iran's New Round of Attacks Injures 12 in Central Israel

Casualties & LossesMilitary OperationsOperational

Iran launched missile attacks on Central Israel on March 3, injuring 12 individuals. The Israeli emergency organization reported that missile debris hit multiple locations. The Israeli Defense Forces are currently investigating the sites of the attacks.

Source: Global TimesTue Mar 03 2026

Chinese Navy's "Silk Road Ark" Hospital Ship Visits Chile

Military OperationsTactical

The Chinese Navy hospital ship 'Silk Road Ark' arrived in Valparaíso, Chile on March 1, 2023, for a 7-day friendly visit and medical exchange activities. This visit is part of the ship's 'Harmonious Mission-2025' task and marks its second visit to Chile since 2018. The ship will host open ship events and engage in medical exchanges with local naval facilities.

Source: Global TimesMon Mar 02 2026

Iran announces new round of missile attacks on Israel

Military OperationsTactical

Iran launched a new round of missile and drone attacks against Israel on the 1st of the month, triggering air raid sirens in central Israel. Explosions were subsequently reported in Tel Aviv.

Source: Global TimesSun Mar 01 2026
U.S. Air Force Maj. Josh Gunderson, F-22 Demo Team commander, taxis by the Wallops Island Flight Facility NASA hanger June 17, 2021, at Wallops Island, Va. The primary function of the F-22A Raptor is an air dominance and multi-role stealth fighter, and can carry a combination of air-to-air missiles and air-to-ground bombs. (U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Don Hudson)

The ‘New’ Super F-22 Raptor Stealth Fighter Just Broke Cover

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Lockheed Martin transitioned the F-22 Raptor into its 'Raptor 2.0' configuration in 2026, integrating Low-Drag Tank and Pylon systems along with underwing IRST pods to enhance its capabilities. This modernization aims to improve the aircraft's range and passive-sensing abilities, ensuring air dominance in the Indo-Pacific. The U.S. Air Force continues to rely on the F-22 until the F-47 next-generation fighter is operational.

Source: 19FortyFiveSat Feb 28 2026

Multiple Areas in Central Israel Hit by Iranian Missile Fragments

Casualties & LossesMilitary OperationsOperational

Debris from Iranian ballistic missile attacks struck multiple areas in central Israel on the evening of the 28th. The Israeli police reported no casualties but noted property damage. This incident follows a recent series of missile strikes from Iran.

Source: Global TimesSat Feb 28 2026

Breaking News! Israeli Media: Iran Launches New Round of Missile Attacks, Alarms Sound in Central and Southern Israel

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

Iran launched missile attacks on Central and Southern Israel, triggering alarms. The Israeli Defense Forces are actively working to intercept these missiles. Earlier, Israeli Defense Minister Katz announced a preemptive strike against Iran, leading to this retaliatory action.

Source: Global TimesSat Feb 28 2026

Bolivian Military Plane Crash Leaves 15 Dead and 30 Injured

Casualties & LossesOperational

A Bolivian Air Force C-130 Hercules military transport aircraft crashed in El Alto on February 27, resulting in 15 deaths and at least 30 injuries. The aircraft went down shortly after taking off from El Alto International Airport, which has since been temporarily closed due to the incident.

Source: Global TimesSat Feb 28 2026

Bolivia Military Plane Crash

Casualties & LossesOperational

A Bolivian Air Force aircraft crashed in El Alto on the 27th, resulting in multiple injuries and damage to several vehicles.

Source: Global TimesFri Feb 27 2026
US Navy SEALs conduct diving training in waters off Key Largo in Florida in February 2025. Critical underwater infrastructure is being targeted by an increasingly wide range of threats, of which diving operations are just one example. (Source: US Navy)

Protecting Underwater Infrastructure

Strategic AssessmentMilitary OperationsPolitical-MilitaryStrategic

Recent incidents have underscored the vulnerabilities of critical underwater infrastructure (CUI) in the Baltic Sea and off Taiwan, prompting NATO and the UK-led Joint Expeditionary Force to enhance protective measures. The Russian Navy's RFS Yantar is reportedly mapping subsea cables, raising concerns about potential future attacks. Technological advancements are being implemented to improve surveillance capabilities, while international cooperation is increasing to address these threats effectively.

Source: European Security & DefenceFri Feb 27 2026
Iowa-Class Battleship USS New Jersey. Image Credit: Creative Commons.

14 Months At War: Iowa-Class Battleship USS New Jersey Deployed Far Longer Than USS Gerald R. Ford Aircraft Carrier

Military OperationsLogisticsStrategic AssessmentHybrid

USS Gerald R. Ford is currently deployed in the Mediterranean Sea for over 246 days, preparing for potential combat operations against Iran. The carrier's crew faces challenges, including mechanical issues and morale concerns due to clogged toilets. In contrast, USS New Jersey maintained combat readiness for 14 months during WWII, showcasing the endurance of naval forces in prolonged deployments.

Source: 19FortyFiveThu Feb 26 2026
U.S. Air Force signs Top Aces deal for F-16 pilot training in Argentina

U.S. Air Force signs Top Aces deal for F-16 pilot training in Argentina

Political-MilitaryMilitary OperationsStrategic

The U.S. Air Force awarded a $33 million contract to Top Aces Corp. for F-16 instructor pilot training in Argentina, expected to continue through June 30, 2029. This program aims to enhance local fighter aviation proficiency and operational capability without relying on overseas training. The training will focus on F-16 operations and is part of Foreign Military Sales to Argentina, allowing pilots to develop skills in their regional environment.

Source: Defense BlogThu Feb 26 2026

Cuba says it seized assault rifles and other weapons on an intruding speedboat

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Cuba's Ministry of Interior reported the seizure of assault rifles, pistols, and other weapons from a boat that entered its territorial waters and exchanged gunfire with Cuban forces on February 25. A U.S. individual involved in the infiltration operation was arrested in Cuba, and the captured suspects indicated plans for a terrorist action.

Source: Global TimesThu Feb 26 2026

Caribbean Community Summit Opens, U.S. Military Actions Become Target of Criticism

Military OperationsCasualties & LossesOperational

U.S. military actions targeting suspected drug traffickers in the Caribbean have resulted in at least 151 casualties since September 2025. The recent strike on September 23 led to 3 deaths, raising concerns among Caribbean leaders at the CARICOM summit. They called for constructive dialogue to address U.S. interventions and the humanitarian crisis in Cuba. U.S. Secretary of State Rubio is set to meet with regional leaders to discuss security and economic issues.

Source: Global TimesWed Feb 25 2026
A U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptor waits to taxi on the flight line in Ceiba, Puerto Rico, Jan. 4, 2026. U.S. military forces are deployed to the Caribbean in support of the U.S. Southern Command mission, Department of War-directed operations, and the president’s priorities to disrupt illicit drug trafficking and protect the homeland. (U.S. Air Force photo)

The F-22 “Super” Raptor: Why the World’s Stealthiest Jet is Getting a 2026 Rebirth

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

The U.S. Air Force is modernizing the F-22 Raptor to the 'Super' Raptor standard by 2026, investing $9 billion in upgrades including the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile and advanced IRST systems. This modernization aims to ensure air superiority against adversaries like China and Russia. The Rapid Raptor program enhances deployment capabilities, allowing the F-22 to be operational within 24 to 48 hours.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Feb 25 2026
Ford-Class

Sewage Problems and Sailors Who Want Out: Aircraft Carrier USS Gerald R. Ford Is Being Pushed To Historic U.S. Navy Limits

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

USS Gerald R. Ford is deployed to the Middle East, facing potential military confrontation with Iran. The deployment, which began in June 2022, may extend to 11 months, causing fatigue among the approximately 5,000 sailors on board. Reports indicate issues with the ship's sewage system and crew dissatisfaction, with some considering leaving the Navy. The carrier is expected to dock in Haifa, Israel, after transiting the Mediterranean Sea.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Feb 25 2026
USS Gerald R. Ford on Combat Drills U.S. Navy

Psychology Suggests Aircraft Carrier Crew of USS Gerald R. Ford Aircraft Carrier Might Suffer Mental Health Issues from Record Deployment

Military OperationsStrategic AssessmentOperational

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) has been deployed for over 230 days, transitioning from operations in Venezuela to the Middle East. This extended deployment raises concerns about the mental health of the crew, with research indicating a link between long deployments and issues such as PTSD and anxiety. The ship may remain at sea for up to 300 days, potentially supporting military operations against Iran.

Source: 19FortyFiveWed Feb 25 2026