Analysis & Reports

The Israel Defense Forces Central Command initiated a pre-planned military exercise on January 25 to enhance readiness for extreme scenarios. This exercise involves multiple brigade-level units and aims to test operational processes from the command level to the general staff. The IDF is primarily responsible for the West Bank and the border areas with Jordan.

Two Slovenian officers departed for Greenland on the 25th to participate in the 'Arctic Resolve' joint military exercise organized by Denmark. The exercise involves multiple NATO countries and is set to continue until the end of 2026. Danish troops have already arrived in Greenland and are conducting shooting training in temporary military zones established there.

The August 1st Air Demonstration Team of the People's Liberation Army Air Force is conducting targeted training at a North China airport in preparation for the 10th Singapore Airshow, scheduled for late January to early February 2024. This event marks the team's 13th international appearance, showcasing new maneuvers including aerial refueling. The team is celebrating its 64th anniversary and has previously performed for over 800 international delegations.

The U.S. Army has initiated extensive modernization reforms to enhance soldier readiness and quality of life, driven by directives from President Trump and Secretary Hegseth. Soldiers are leveraging advanced technologies, such as 3D printing for drones, while the Army implements fundamental changes to reduce bureaucracy and improve living conditions. Ongoing efforts aim to maintain high standards and require continued support from Congress and the public to adapt to modern warfare demands.

The U.S. Marine Corps is redefining its mission to focus on naval expeditionary warfare, particularly in response to threats from China. During RIMPAC 2022, involving 25,000 personnel and multiple nations, the Corps emphasized its capabilities in maritime operations. The restructuring includes a reduction of 12,000 personnel to prioritize advanced weaponry and unmanned systems, aiming to enhance operational effectiveness in contested environments.

The U.S. is significantly increasing its military presence in the Middle East, deploying advanced weaponry and aircraft carrier strike groups near Iran. High-level U.S. officials have made frequent visits to Israel for strategic coordination, while Iran has issued warnings of strong retaliation against potential attacks. International airlines are suspending flights to the region amid rising tensions.

The Midway-class aircraft carriers, including USS Midway, USS Coral Sea, and USS Franklin D. Roosevelt, served in the U.S. Navy from their commissioning after World War II until 1992. They were notable for their armored flight decks and played key roles in military operations such as Vietnam and Operation Desert Storm. The USS Midway became the first U.S. aircraft carrier based overseas in Japan, highlighting the class's significance in naval history.

The USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group and additional U.S. military assets are deploying to the Middle East in response to the Iranian regime's violent crackdown on protesters, which has resulted in a death toll potentially exceeding 20,000. President Trump stated that his threats of military action have influenced Iranian authorities to cancel planned executions of detainees. The UK is also contributing by sending RAF Eurofighter Typhoon jets to Qatar.

The U.S. Air Force continues to operate the F-117 Nighthawk in Nevada for training exercises, simulating enemy stealth fighters. This use persists despite the aircraft's retirement from combat in 2008, with plans to maintain its operational status until at least 2034. The F-117 serves as a valuable tool for pilot training and testing anti-air systems against low-observable threats.

Denmark's Ministry of Defense announced that military exercises named 'Arctic Resolve' are ongoing in Greenland, starting January 23, 2023, and will continue until the end of 2026. Troops from NATO countries, including Norway, Sweden, France, Germany, the UK, the Netherlands, and Finland, are participating in these exercises.

NATO allies, led by the UK and Scandinavian countries, currently manage Arctic military operations as U.S. forces struggle with limited training and equipment. Recent exercises revealed that Finnish reservists outperformed American troops in Arctic conditions, prompting concerns about U.S. military readiness in the region. The U.S. remains dependent on European allies for advanced ice-breaking technology and operational knowledge.

The U.S. Air Force conducted Exercise Dragon Shield at Beale Air Force Base in 2026, testing the 9th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron's ability to launch and recover U-2 Dragon Lady aircraft under simulated contested conditions. Airmen operated in protective gear, focusing on maintaining safety and speed while preparing for intelligence missions. The exercise highlighted the importance of ISR capabilities in high-threat environments and the need for effective coordination among maintenance crews and aircrew.

Danish soldiers have been deployed to Greenland with live ammunition and specific orders to engage in combat if the U.S. unexpectedly attacks. This unusual readiness state includes the use of KUP ammunition, typically reserved for responding to coups or hostile invasions. The deployment reflects Denmark's precautionary measures in light of potential threats.

U.S. Central Command awarded a contract to Raft on January 22 for the deployment of the Raft AI Mission System (R)AIMS, designed for battlefield operations. The system enables military units to build and deploy computer vision models in real time, enhancing operational capabilities. It integrates with existing military systems and supports various mission scenarios, addressing key gaps in military AI applications.

Danish soldiers in Greenland are prepared for combat with live ammunition and have received orders to engage if the U.S. attacks. The Danish Ministry of Defense is enhancing its defense capabilities, including deploying the frigate Peter Willemoes and conducting patrols with F-35 fighter jets. This operation involves coordination with NATO allies from Sweden, Norway, Finland, France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the UK.

U.S. military leaders at Fort Benning are shifting their training focus from traditional physical fitness to developing 'human weapon systems' that integrate cognitive and technological capabilities. This includes the use of wearable biometric trackers to monitor soldier performance and wellness. The Holistic Health and Fitness Academy is set to expand significantly, emphasizing the importance of mental and physical health in modern warfare.

The 101st Airborne Division paused Operation Lethal Eagle at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, due to an impending winter storm forecasted for the weekend. Bases including Fort Bragg and Camp LeJeune are preparing for heavy snow and ice, with emergency teams activated. The storm is expected to affect military operations across the eastern United States, involving over 7,000 Soldiers and various equipment.

The 101st Airborne Division paused its largest annual training exercise, Operation Lethal Eagle, at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, due to an impending winter storm expected to impact multiple military bases. Preparations are underway at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and other installations, with emergency teams activated to ensure safety as heavy snow and icy conditions are forecasted for the weekend. Over 7,000 Soldiers and various equipment are involved in the exercise, which will resume once conditions improve.

F-35 stealth fighters are currently flying over Greenland, indicating a military operation. These aircraft are confirmed to be operated by a non-American entity, suggesting a significant military presence in the region. The specific unit involved has not been identified, but the deployment of such advanced aircraft highlights strategic military interests.

US forces are preparing for NATO's 'Cold Response 26' military exercise in Greenland amid rising tensions. The exercise will involve various military operations and troop movements as part of NATO's readiness strategy.