Analysis & Reports

JNIM attacked Burkinabè military forces in Tandjari, killing at least 50 soldiers. In retaliation, Burkinabè forces eliminated 29 presumed fighters. The situation in Burkina Faso is dire, with the country being the most affected by terrorism globally, and the regime's repression of dissent exacerbating the crisis.

Marie DuboisWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

The Fujian Coast Guard conducted routine law enforcement patrols near Kinmen on February 25. These patrols are part of ongoing efforts to strengthen control over the waters and protect the rights of Chinese fishermen, ensuring safe navigation and operational order in the Xiamen-Kinmen maritime area.

Bittium and VTT Technical Research Centre of Finland are collaborating to develop new defense solutions that address the evolving needs of the modern battlefield. This partnership focuses on technologies such as radar, wearable sensors, and advanced communication systems, aiming to enhance performance capabilities for defense-sector customers. The collaboration leverages Bittium's expertise in scaling high-technology innovations and VTT's research capabilities to create field-ready products.

BAE Systems recently delivered its 100,000th APKWS laser-guidance kit, enhancing precision strike capabilities for U.S. armed forces and allies. The kit transforms unguided 2.75-inch rockets into precision-guided munitions and is deployable from multiple platforms. BAE Systems has been producing these kits for over 12 years, continuously upgrading technology to meet evolving mission needs.

Epirus and Digital Force Technologies (DFT) integrated their counter-UAS capabilities, combining the Leonidas high-power microwave platform with DFT's Seraphim software. This partnership aims to create a unified detect-to-defeat system for drone threats, demonstrated successfully in 2025 against a swarm of 49 drones. The technology focuses on non-kinetic engagement, using electromagnetic interference to neutralize drones while minimizing collateral damage.

Ukrainian forces launched successful counterattacks in February 2026, recapturing territory in Kupyansk and Dnipropetrovsk and Zaporizhia oblasts. Russian forces faced significant command and control failures, leading to a casualty rate exceeding recruitment for the first time. The ongoing conflict has resulted in substantial territorial gains for Ukraine, while Russia struggles with manpower shortages and operational effectiveness.

Dmitri VolkovWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) has undergone an unprecedented purge of high-ranking officials since 2022, affecting at least 101 generals and officers. This has led to a significant impact on the PLA's command structure and operational readiness, with 52% of leadership positions affected. The purge reflects Xi Jinping's efforts to consolidate power and address corruption within the military, although it raises concerns about the PLA's capability to conduct complex military operations.

Li MinghuiWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

A Turkish Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed near Balıkesir, Turkey, at 00:56 local time, resulting in the death of its pilot. The aircraft lost radio contact shortly after takeoff from the 9th Main Jet Base Command. Search and rescue teams located the wreckage, and an investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.

The U.S. military has significantly increased its presence in the Middle East, with over 250 airlift flights and more than 150 aircraft deployed since late February. This buildup includes two carrier strike groups and numerous air defense assets, indicating preparations for potential military action against Iran. Gulf states, including Qatar and Saudi Arabia, express alarm over the implications of this military concentration, fearing they may become targets in any conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

HENSOLDT AG extended CEO Oliver Dörre's contract until 31 December 2031 on 24 February 2026 in Taufkirchen, emphasizing continuity and strategic growth in defense technology. Under Dörre's leadership since 2024, the company has focused on scaling industrial capacity and expanding its software business, reinforcing its role as a reliable partner for the German Armed Forces and international clients.

On February 18, 2026, the U.S. reaffirmed its commitment to defend Japan using all defense capabilities, including nuclear forces, during the Extended Deterrence Dialogue in Washington D.C. Both nations expressed serious concerns about China's nuclear buildup and North Korea's missile programs. Japan's defense policy is transitioning towards proactive defense, reflecting a deepening military alliance with the U.S. This dialogue marks a significant strategic shift in addressing regional security challenges.

Tanaka TakashiWed Feb 25 2026Loading...

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover of the U.S. Army received the Medal of Honor during the State of the Union address for his bravery in a raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Slover was wounded by enemy fire while leading the mission aboard a Chinook helicopter in Caracas. President Trump highlighted the dangers of the operation and Slover's critical role in its success.

U.S. defense firms face challenges as European countries shift towards greater technological independence and increased defense spending. European governments are increasingly interested in locally produced military technology, particularly in light of Ukraine's innovative military strategies. The reliance on U.S. cloud services remains high, but new EU regulations are pushing for more European alternatives. Public sentiment in Europe is shifting towards preferring European-made security technologies.

President Trump claimed during his State of the Union speech that he had obliterated Iran's nuclear program and ended eight wars, including conflicts in Thailand and Cambodia. He asserted that crime in Washington, D.C. is at its lowest level, despite conflicting police data. The U.S. continues military operations in the Middle East, including a buildup involving the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford. Trump's statements regarding military funding were also found to be misleading.

The China Coast Guard conducted high-intensity training exercises in the East China Sea and South China Sea following the Spring Festival. Multiple aircraft and helicopters participated in coordinated operations, focusing on rapid response and effective control for maritime law enforcement. The exercises aimed to enhance operational readiness and coordination among units.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth is appealing a judge's order from February 12, 2023, that blocks punishment for Sen. Mark Kelly for participating in a video urging troops to resist unlawful orders. The judge ruled that the Pentagon violated Kelly's First Amendment rights, and a grand jury previously declined to indict the lawmakers involved in the video. The situation highlights ongoing tensions regarding military directives and free speech rights among veterans.

South Korea and the U.S. announced joint military exercises named 'Freedom Shield (FS)' scheduled to take place from March 9 to March 19, 2026. This decision was communicated by the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff on February 25.

Rheinmetall showcased the RCWS 320C-UAS weapon station at the Enforce Tac exhibition in Nurnberg in 2026. This system is designed for short- and very short-range air defense, featuring advanced tracking capabilities and a high rate of fire. It can detect UAVs at ranges up to 5.3 km and is adaptable for various military platforms, including potential static defense roles.

President Trump presented the Medal of Honor to retired Navy Capt. Royce Williams during the State of the Union address. At 100 years old, Williams received recognition for his heroic actions in a 1952 dogfight against Soviet MiG-15 jets, where he downed four enemy aircraft. The mission remained classified for decades, and Rep. Darrell Issa played a key role in advocating for Williams' recognition through legislative efforts.

Sweden's Defense Minister expressed openness to joining the joint development of next-generation fighter jets with Japan and the UK. A decision on whether to collaborate or develop independently will be made by March 2027. The project aims for deployment by 2035, although Sweden had previously withdrawn due to concerns about its air force's needs. Germany is also exploring options for collaboration in military aircraft development.