Analysis & Reports

On January 29, 2026, the Islamic State's Sahel Province launched a coordinated assault on Dori Hamani International Airport and Air Base 101 in Niamey, utilizing 30 fighters equipped with armed drones and mortars. The attack, which lasted two hours, was ultimately repelled, but it highlights the growing operational capabilities of jihadist groups in the region. In a separate incident in mid-February, 80 soldiers and militia members were killed in an attack in Titao.

Marie DuboisWed Mar 04 2026Loading...

Germany announced a commitment to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP by 2035, reflecting a shift in European security policy. Estonia plans to exceed NATO's defense spending targets, while Czechia is set to reduce its spending below 2%. The NATO alliance is facing challenges in achieving strategic autonomy and military readiness amid rising geopolitical tensions, particularly with Russia.

Alexandra ReevesWed Mar 04 2026Loading...

The U.S. Air Force conducted a test launch of an unarmed Minuteman III intercontinental ballistic missile from Vandenberg Space Force Base in California on March 3 at 11:01 p.m. Pacific Time. The missile, equipped with two test reentry vehicles, traveled to a target area near Kwajalein Atoll in the Marshall Islands. This launch is part of a long-running evaluation program to verify the performance and reliability of the Minuteman III system, a key component of the U.S. nuclear deterrent.

The U.S. Marine Corps awarded a $22.8 million contract modification to BlueHalo Labs for additional Titan SV MPv3 counter-drone systems to enhance air self-defense capabilities against small unmanned aircraft threats. The work will be performed in Loudon, Virginia, with delivery scheduled on or before July 1, 2026.

The U.S. military is concerned about the depletion of air defense interceptors amid ongoing conflicts with Iran. On February 28, 2024, the U.S. and Israel conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets to weaken Iran's missile and drone retaliation capabilities. The Pentagon is focused on replenishing stocks of Patriot and Standard missiles, while Israel faces its own ammunition supply issues. If the conflict persists, the U.S. may utilize stocks from the Pacific region.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted airstrikes on Hezbollah positions in Sidon, Lebanon, after Hezbollah fired approximately 15 rockets at the Golan Heights. Evacuation orders were issued to residents in a building in the area. The events occurred on the 3rd of the month.

Christian D. Orr evaluated military aircraft exhibits at the Aviation Museum of Kentucky on March 1, 2026, highlighting the operational status of the F-14A Tomcat and F-4S Phantom, both still used by the Iranian Air Force. The museum plans an expansion in 2028 to include more aircraft, emphasizing its role in preserving military aviation history.

The U.S. Air Force is developing the F-47 NGAD fighter aircraft, set for its first flight in 2028 and operational deployment by the early 2030s. The program, overseen by Gen. Dale White, aims to produce over 185 units, enhancing air dominance with advanced stealth and AI-driven drone capabilities. Manufacturing is currently underway in St. Louis, following a contract awarded in March 2025.

The 11th Armored Cavalry Regiment conducts ongoing simulated battles at Fort Irwin, California, employing a strategy that emphasizes simplicity in technology and operations. They utilize drones, electronic warfare systems, and artificial intelligence while centralizing high-tech assets for effective combat. This approach allows them to adapt quickly to evolving threats and maintain operational agility.

The U.S. Navy and Air Force are integrating capabilities for long-range maritime strike operations, utilizing the AIM-174B Gunslinger missile and Quicksink munitions. The MQ-25 Stingray unmanned tanker will enhance the operational range of carrier air wings. This collaboration aims to bolster U.S. military firepower in the Indo-Pacific region, addressing the challenges posed by long-range adversary weaponry.

The U.S. and Israel launched coordinated airstrikes against Iran, targeting key facilities including the leadership compound of Ayatollah Khamenei, who was confirmed killed. This action followed a debate in West Palm Beach where John Kerry warned of potential chaos from military action, while Mike Pompeo argued for decisive measures. Iran subsequently retaliated with missile and drone strikes on U.S. military installations in Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.

U.S. military operations against Iran have resulted in the deaths of six service members since airstrikes began on Saturday. Vice President JD Vance emphasized that President Trump aims to avoid a prolonged conflict, outlining objectives to destroy Iran's missile capabilities and prevent nuclear armament. The U.S. is preparing to escalate its military actions, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio indicating that harsher measures are forthcoming.

U.S. Cyber Command and U.S. Space Command are conducting ongoing cyber operations against Iran, aiming to disrupt and degrade its communication and response capabilities. The operations are expected to evolve over the coming weeks, with a focus on intelligence gathering and maintaining access to Iranian networks. Former officials indicate that these operations will likely involve multiple phases and continuous adjustments based on the situation in cyberspace.

The 5th Space Warning Squadron of the U.S. Space Force has prohibited alcohol consumption to maintain operational readiness amid ongoing military operations in Iran. This policy, effective February 28, 2024, follows the launch of Operation Epic Fury, which targeted Iranian missile and air defense sites, resulting in four U.S. service member casualties. The ban will remain in effect until lifted by the squadron commander or until the entry into Phase 3 of the Mission Delta 4 plan.

President Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to three soldiers on Monday for their acts of valor in World War II, Vietnam, and Afghanistan. Roddie Edmonds and Michael Ollis received the award posthumously, while Terry Richardson was recognized for his bravery during a reconnaissance mission. The ceremony highlights the sacrifices made by these service members in defense of their country.

U.S. Navy and Air Force conducted integrated maritime strike exercises off California, utilizing B-2 Spirit bombers and AIM-174B Gunslinger missiles. This occurred shortly before airstrikes on Iran's missile facilities, where B-2s targeted complex underground structures. The exercises aimed to enhance readiness against Chinese A2/AD threats and involved significant military assets from the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group and 509th Bomb Wing.

Airman First Class McKenzie C. Cooper was found dead in her off-base residence near Shaw Air Force Base on February 23, 2025. She was 20 years old and assigned to the 20th Fighter Wing as a force support squadron airman. The cause of death is currently unknown, and the squadron expressed profound grief over her loss.

The 341st Training Squadron at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland failed to provide adequate care for 230 military working dogs from 2021 to 2023, resulting in the deaths of four dogs and widespread health issues. The dogs received only 10 minutes of engagement per day instead of the mandated five hours, leading to heat injuries and severe stress behaviors. The report from the DoD Inspector General revealed systemic neglect across 12 military bases, prompting recommendations for improved kennel conditions and care standards.

The U.S. military is implementing a new National Defense Strategy focused on deterrence by denial along the First Island Chain, enhancing military infrastructure, and increasing allied defense contributions. This strategy aims to counter China's military assertiveness while urging allies to significantly boost their defense spending. Trilateral military exercises were conducted in February 2026, signaling coordinated deterrence efforts. However, challenges remain due to China's expanding ISR capabilities and the need for credible U.S. commitments to regional allies.

Marcus ChenMon Mar 02 2026Loading...

Space Force launched a new prototype for orbital warfare training from Cape Canaveral Space Force Station, Florida, on February 12, 2023. This prototype aims to enhance the maneuvering capabilities of Space Force guardians in space. The GSSAP system, which includes satellites for space situational awareness, will support these operations. Space Delta 9 is designated to operate the new training asset.