Analysis & Reports

The United States plans to establish two new military bases in Greenland, Narsarsuaq and Mestersvig, to enhance NATO's operational capabilities in the Arctic. This agreement, signed on September 22, 2026, during the UN General Assembly, aims to redistribute Arctic responsibilities among NATO allies. Currently, approximately 150 U.S. military personnel are stationed at Pituffik Space Base, which will remain the primary U.S. military site in Greenland.

Dr. Klaus WeberWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

Roketsan's KARAOK anti-tank missile successfully struck a target drone in Türkiye on September 23. This marks the first time the missile, designed for ground targets, has been adapted for aerial engagement. The KARAOK missile can be launched from a turret on a light tactical vehicle, enhancing its operational flexibility. Malaysia has contracted to purchase the KARAOK system, indicating international interest in this new capability.

NATO is conducting large-scale naval exercises in the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean, involving the UK Carrier Strike Group and other allied forces. The exercises, named 'Strike Warrior', focus on the coordinated use of unmanned systems, including surface vessels, submersibles, and drones. These operations aim to protect undersea infrastructure and prepare for potential engagements with Russian naval forces. The exercises began on September 21, 2023.

Ukrainian forces achieved victories in counteroffensive operations, regaining control of two villages north of Lyman on September 20, 2023. They targeted Russian drone operators and supply lines, disrupting logistics and enhancing their own air defense and electronic warfare capabilities. This led to a temporary 'anti-drone dome' that hindered Russian reconnaissance and attack capabilities.

Representatives from Mali, Niger, and Burkina Faso unified their military efforts under the Sahel Alliance (AES) on September 22, 2026. Turkey is supplying Bayraktar drones to enhance AES's military capabilities, aiming to provide a visible military presence without the political costs of Western deployments. However, the effectiveness of these drones is contingent on integrated intelligence and ground operations to counter groups like JNIM and ISIS.

Marie DuboisWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

Oshen is testing six C-Star sailboats equipped with hydrophones during the REPMUS26 exercise in Portugal to establish an acoustic picket line for submarine detection. This innovative approach aims to enhance undersea surveillance capabilities, particularly in the strategically important GIUK Gap. The exercise also evaluates the integration of these systems with NATO command and control.

BAE Systems delivered two AMPV 30 prototypes armed with Kongsberg’s Medium Caliber Turret to the U.S. Army's 1st Cavalry Division at Fort Hood, Texas, in April 2023. The prototypes underwent field evaluations, including live-fire testing, by the 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment. These vehicles feature advanced systems such as counter-drone detection and a 360-degree camera system, but the Army has not yet committed to purchasing them.

Nine Chinese military aircraft crossed the Taiwan Strait median line on September 23, entering Taiwan's air defense identification zone. In response, Taiwan deployed its own aircraft and naval vessels, activating coastal missile systems for monitoring. This incident reflects a pattern of increasing military pressure from the PLA, with Taiwan facing heightened operational demands.

Li MinghuiWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

Ukrainian drones struck Russian oil refineries in Moscow and Samara in September 2026, disrupting production and logistics. This campaign is part of a broader strategy to target Russian fuel infrastructure, increasing operational challenges for the Russian military. The effectiveness of Russian air defenses is questioned as they struggle to protect multiple facilities simultaneously.

Dmitri VolkovWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

U.S. Northern Command tested Bumblebee interceptor drones during Falcon Peak 26.2 at Yuma Proving Ground, Arizona, through September 25, 2023. The exercise focuses on counter-drone operations to enhance detection and interdiction of unauthorized drones along the U.S.-Mexico border. This testing integrates operational lessons from Joint Task Force-Southern Border and aims to improve military capabilities against drone threats.

On September 22, 2026, CENTCOM expanded air defense coordination between Israel and Gulf states following a drone attack in Fujairah. The cooperation focuses on sharing early warning data and linking command centers to counter threats from Iranian missiles and drones. Despite the acquisition of advanced systems like Patriot and THAAD, the report highlights the need for improved operational integration and trust among regional partners.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

Military operations are being conducted in the Bohai Sea, with access prohibited to certain areas starting from September 24 at 7:00 AM.

The U.S., Japan, and South Korea conducted joint military training named Freedom Edge 26 from September 11 to 22, 2026, focusing on naval operations, missile defense, and information sharing. The training aimed to enhance cooperation in response to security challenges, including North Korea's actions and maritime law enforcement. A joint statement emphasized the importance of maintaining peace in the Taiwan Strait and protecting legitimate shipping activities.

Tanaka TakashiWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

Chinese military doctors are focusing on drone-related injuries and discussing advancements in medical treatment based on experiences from the Ukraine battlefield. This shift indicates a change in medical protocols to address the nature of injuries caused by drones. The PLA is exploring the integration of portable medical technologies and improving logistics for medical support in response to evolving battlefield conditions.

Li MinghuiWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

China's Maritime Safety Administration issued a navigation warning for rocket launches in the South China Sea from September 23 to September 24, prohibiting entry into the area from 20:32 to 22:32 each day.

The Eastern Theater Navy frigate detachment conducted high-intensity naval combat training in a certain sea area. Sonar operators detected a simulated enemy submarine, prompting coordinated search and engagement efforts. Artillery was employed to suppress enemy coastal fire points, and logistics operations were carried out to resupply the vessels.

Japan's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) deployed F-2A aircraft in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from September 9 to September 22, 2026, marking the first operational use of Japanese fighter jets in India. The exercise involved collaboration with Indian Air Force aircraft, focusing on operational planning and maintenance. This deployment signifies a strengthening of military cooperation between Japan and India, particularly in the context of regional security concerns.

Tanaka TakashiWed Sep 23 2026Loading...

Intense fighting occurred between Houthi forces and Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces in Taiz province, resulting in at least 16 deaths and dozens of injuries. The Houthi forces reported over 600 casualties among government troops. Saudi Arabia conducted 936 airstrikes against Houthi positions, while the UK announced it would provide military support to Saudi Arabia. Houthi leaders warned against foreign intervention in the conflict.

Seven soldiers from the 82nd Group Army were awarded the title of 'Top Marksman' after excelling in a rigorous shooting assessment. The unit organized specialized training to enhance their skills, addressing individual weaknesses. On the assessment day, all soldiers performed exceptionally well, achieving the highest recognition in marksmanship.

A new amphibious spherical robot was showcased at the China International Defense Electronics Exhibition. This robot, measuring 0.8 meters in diameter and weighing over 180 kg, can reach speeds of 35 km/h and is designed for both reconnaissance and attack missions. It operates effectively on water and land, capable of traversing various terrains and equipped with tools for capturing and dispersing crowds.