Analysis & Reports

Iran launched a significant missile and drone attack on the United Arab Emirates on May 4, resulting in the interception of 12 ballistic missiles and 4 drones. Kuwait confirmed a drone incursion on May 10, while a Qatari cargo vessel was struck by a drone the same day. Gulf states are ramping up defense spending and rearmament efforts in response to these escalating threats, with Saudi Arabia allocating $78 billion to defense in 2025.

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DSIT Solutions unveiled its BlueShield counter-UUV sonar system in Tel Aviv on May 13, 2026, as part of a new layered Underwater Domain Awareness concept. This system integrates multiple sonar platforms to detect a range of underwater threats, including unmanned underwater vehicles and submarines, using AI-supported data merging for enhanced surveillance. The SeaShield component is highlighted for its long-range detection capabilities.

MKE unveiled new artillery systems, including the Uran vehicle-mounted 105/30 mm artillery and the Bozkir 120/32 mm gun/mortar system, at Saha Expo 2026 in Istanbul. These systems are designed to provide enhanced indirect and direct fire support for land forces, with the Uran capable of a maximum range of 17.5 km using specialized ammunition. The developments underscore the importance of artillery in modern military operations.

Iran launched over 500 ballistic missiles and 2,000 drones against GCC states, including Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Iraq, from 28 February to 8 April 2026. The conflict has severely damaged military infrastructure, including the destruction of a key THAAD radar in Jordan. GCC states are accelerating rearmament and diversifying defense partnerships amid significant geopolitical shifts.

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Israel established a secret military base in Iraq to support operations against Iran, including airstrikes and the deployment of special forces. The base, located in the Iraqi desert, was nearly discovered by Iraqi forces in March 2023, prompting an Israeli airstrike to prevent this. U.S. officials are aware of the base's existence and its purpose in the ongoing conflict with Iran.

Hezbollah launched multiple rockets at Israeli forces stationed in Southern Lebanon on the morning of the 13th. An unmanned drone, believed to be from Hezbollah, was intercepted during the incident. No casualties were reported from the attack, and there has been no response from the Lebanese side.

The UK is deploying naval and air assets, including Typhoon fighter jets and HMS Dragon destroyer, to the Strait of Hormuz for escort operations. This initiative, announced by the UK Ministry of Defence on May 12, 2023, aims to enhance the security of international shipping in the region. The UK has allocated £115 million for mine clearance and anti-drone systems as part of this defensive operation.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) special forces crossed the Litani River on October 12, advancing north and engaging in combat with Hezbollah. The IDF reported over 350 Hezbollah militants killed and conducted airstrikes on more than 100 military targets. Concurrently, northern Israel faced drone attacks from Hezbollah, prompting multiple air raid alerts.

Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps attempted an armed infiltration into Bubiyan Island, Kuwait, on May 1, 2023, leading to a clash with Kuwaiti forces that resulted in one injury. Four Iranian personnel were captured, while two escaped. Kuwait condemned the actions as hostile, while Iran claimed the incident was due to a navigation error during routine patrols.

The U.S. military faces increased financial and operational pressures regarding the Iran conflict, with costs rising to approximately $29 billion. Limited exchanges of fire continue in the Strait of Hormuz, where the U.S. Navy's Project Freedom is paused but can be resumed if needed. Iran has warned of a potential response to U.S. actions, indicating escalating tensions in the region.

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The U.S. seeks additional funding for the war against Iran, with costs rising to $29 billion. Senior defense officials indicated that operational costs and equipment repairs are driving the increase. Despite a declared ceasefire, limited exchanges of fire continue near the Strait of Hormuz, and the U.S. maintains plans for potential escalation or retrograde of military operations.

Israel deployed the Iron Dome air defense system in the United Arab Emirates on December 12, 2023. This deployment was confirmed by U.S. officials and marks the first time the system has been used outside of Israel and the U.S. The Iron Dome has reportedly assisted the UAE in intercepting Iranian missiles during recent conflicts.

The U.S. Department of Defense utilized the Maven Smart System to conduct airstrikes on 13,000 targets in Iran over 38 days during Operation Epic Fury. AI usage surged significantly, with unclassified usage increasing by 38% and classified usage by 89%. The Pentagon emphasized the importance of AI in enhancing military decision-making and operational efficiency.

Iranian missiles and drones continued to strike targets across the Gulf as of May 12, 2026, despite a ceasefire agreement. The U.S. Navy responded with airstrikes against Iranian military facilities. The Strait of Hormuz remains effectively closed to commercial shipping, and the UAE reported significant drone and missile activity. A major oil spill from Iran's Kharg Island has raised environmental concerns.

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Aselsan showcased new autonomous systems and electronic warfare capabilities at Saha Expo 2026 in Istanbul. The company introduced the Tufan Unmanned Surface Vehicle and Kılıç family of unmanned underwater vehicles, emphasizing their roles in modern warfare. Additionally, the Koral AD electronic warfare system was launched to enhance Turkey's air defense capabilities. Aselsan aims to expand its export market significantly by 2030.

Israeli Defense Forces' special forces crossed the Litani River and advanced into southern Lebanon on May 12, engaging in close combat with Hezbollah forces. The operation involved the 'Egoz' special forces and Golani Brigade reconnaissance unit, resulting in injuries to several Israeli soldiers during clashes with Hezbollah. This area had been used by Hezbollah for launching attacks against Israeli positions.

Israeli forces destroyed a water pumping station in Southern Lebanon on the 12th. This action was carried out by the Israeli Defense Forces as part of their military operations in the region.

The Israeli Defense Forces conducted operations in Southern Lebanon, killing over 350 members of Hezbollah over the past weeks. They struck more than 1100 targets, including military facilities and weapons storage. The IDF stated that operations will continue according to directives from the Israeli government.

Iran launched 6,400 missiles and drones at Gulf Cooperation Council territories since February 28, 2026, with the UAE intercepting two hostile drones on May 10. The US Navy is enforcing a blockade of Iranian ports, while Gulf states are rapidly enhancing their air defense systems. Iranian forces remain on high alert, and Iranian-aligned militias continue drone operations against Gulf targets.

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Iran fired an estimated 6,400 missiles and drones at Gulf Cooperation Council territories and Jordan since February 2026, with significant military activity reported on 10 May 2026. The UAE intercepted hostile drones, while Kuwait reported drone intrusions. Gulf states are rapidly enhancing their air defense capabilities, with Saudi Arabia and the UAE securing substantial arms deals. The US Navy continues to enforce a blockade of Iranian ports, maintaining over 20 warships in the region.

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