Analysis & Reports

Japan's 2026 defense white paper highlights a shift in defense strategy, emphasizing increased military spending and the acquisition of unmanned vehicles in response to threats from China, Russia, and North Korea. By FY 2027, Japan aims to enhance its defense capabilities and take primary responsibility for national defense. The country is requesting a record defense budget of JPY8.9 trillion ($56.1 billion USD) to support these initiatives.

On August 9, 2023, the Jamaat Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) launched an offensive against Malian Armed Forces in San, resulting in the deaths of 40 jihadist fighters. Concurrently, a separate attack led to the deaths of 10 Malian soldiers. The JNIM is actively testing the strategic depth of Mali, particularly along the Gao-Anefis route, while the Malian forces, supported by Russian instructors, are attempting to hold their positions.

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On April 25, JNIM fighters were active in Bamako and attacked Bourem, Kati, Sévaré, Sénou, and Mopti. The U.S. administration is debating military strikes against JNIM, potentially making Mali the eighth target of Trump’s military actions. The Malian government has not excluded the possibility of U.S. intervention, despite previously expelling French and U.S. forces.

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Nigerian President Bola Tinubu accused Sahel countries of contributing to Nigeria's security issues during a speech on July 30. In response, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) criticized Tinubu's remarks as simplistic and emphasized their collective efforts against terrorism. Diplomatic tensions have arisen, impacting regional cooperation in counter-terrorism efforts, as both Nigeria and the AES face common threats from groups like Boko Haram.

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On August 4, the Burkinabè army retaliated against villages near Dori after an ambush on a supply convoy to the Essakane gold mine, resulting in approximately 48 civilian deaths. The ambush, attributed to the JNIM, also caused the deaths of 10 soldiers and injuries to 15 others. Following the attack, soldiers accused local villagers of collaborating with jihadists, leading to further violence against the civilian population.

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Alexander the Great led military campaigns against the Persian Empire from 334 BCE to 323 BCE, achieving victories at Granicus, Issus, and Gaugamela. His Macedonian Army, consisting of 43,000 infantry and 5,500 cavalry, utilized various tactics and equipment, including siege engines and war elephants. He founded over 70 cities, extending Greek influence, and died in Babylon without a clear succession plan.

On August 6, ten women were killed in a mine explosion in Bertha, Ségou, while traveling to offer condolences after two men were previously killed by unidentified armed individuals. This incident highlights the shifting tactics of JNIM, which is reportedly regrouping in the Ségou and Mopti regions, as the northern areas become increasingly unstable.

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The U.S. Air Force has deployed laser weapons overseas to assist in countering drone threats. This deployment includes the use of the Compact Laser Weapon System (CLWS), which is manufactured by Boeing. The Air Force has indicated that these systems are being used across various theaters in Europe and Africa, although specific locations remain undisclosed for security reasons.

The 'Jixiang Fangzhou' hospital ship of the People's Liberation Army Navy recently departed from Qingdao, Shandong, for a humanitarian mission in Africa and South Asia. This marks its first overseas deployment, joining two other hospital ships to provide comprehensive medical support. Equipped with advanced medical facilities, these ships are designed to operate in maritime environments without onboard weapons, ensuring they can respond effectively to medical emergencies.

The U.S. Army opened four domestic testing ranges and one international range in Morocco for private industry to test interceptor missiles. This initiative aims to expedite the acquisition process, allowing companies to access testing within 30 days of request. Covenant Industries successfully tested their Anthem missile in Morocco, marking a significant step in missile development. The Army emphasizes that companies must use their own funds for development and will not subsidize travel or accommodations.

On July 31, 2026, Russia expanded its military cooperation with the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) during a meeting in Niamey, involving 5,000 to 6,000 personnel. This agreement extends beyond military assistance to include economic and financial collaboration. The Russian African Corps is solidifying its presence in the region, while the security situation continues to worsen due to jihadist threats and the complete withdrawal of French forces from central Sahel.

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In November 1942, the French battleship Jean Bart engaged in a gunnery duel with the USS Massachusetts in Casablanca, Morocco. Jean Bart, only 77 percent complete at the time, sustained five hits from 16-inch shells and was subsequently knocked out of action. Following the engagement, the surviving French crew rejoined the Allied side, and Jean Bart was used as a training ship for the remainder of World War II.

On August 4, 2026, the Malian Armed Forces and Africa Corps conducted targeted airstrikes on illegal gold mining sites in Tessalit and Tabrishat, disrupting funding for the JNIM terrorist group. This operation is part of a larger campaign to combat the financial resources of insurgent groups in northern Mali. The strikes are intended to send a message to local communities about the ineffectiveness of JNIM's protection against aerial attacks.

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Paramount Aerospace Industries integrated ASELSAN’s ASELFLIR-500 targeting system into the Mwari aircraft on 6 August 2026 in Johannesburg. This enhancement significantly improves the Mwari's capabilities in countering unmanned aerial systems by providing advanced surveillance and target tracking. The collaboration emphasizes the aircraft's modular design, allowing for rapid adaptation to evolving threats.

The Nigerian government announced a salary increase for military personnel on August 4, 2023, with raises ranging from 30% to 80% based on rank. This policy change will affect approximately 250,000 service members and aims to improve morale in the face of rising living costs due to inflation.

USS Constellation (CV-64) operated as a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier from 1961 to 2003, participating in key military operations including the Vietnam War and Persian Gulf conflicts. The carrier was involved in the Gulf of Tonkin Incident and supported operations during the Iran-Iraq War and Operation Desert Shield. Over its service, it launched thousands of missions and was recognized for its adaptability and combat record.

The Israeli Navy conducted a large-scale military exercise this week in the Mediterranean Sea and Red Sea, involving hundreds of personnel and various types of vessels, including missile boats, submarines, and coastal patrol boats. The exercise was led by a missile boat squadron and included coordination from multiple naval departments.

The F-111 Aardvark, known as 'the Pig', served in multiple military operations from 1964 to 1998, including the Vietnam War, Operation El Dorado Canyon, and Operation Desert Storm. It was recognized for its combat effectiveness, achieving a notable safety record and destroying over 1,500 enemy armored vehicles during the Gulf War. The aircraft was retired from service by the U.S. Air Force in 1998 and by the Royal Australian Air Force in 2010.

Houthi forces attacked a Saudi oil tanker in the Gulf of Aden on August 5, 2023, marking their second attack on Saudi vessels that day. This escalation reflects the Houthis' intent to enhance their influence over Red Sea shipping and align with Iranian strategies against U.S. interests. The attacks are expected to continue unless U.S.-Iran negotiations yield significant results.

Houthi forces attacked a Saudi oil tanker in the Aden Gulf on August 5, marking their second attack on Saudi vessels that day. The spokesperson stated that a ballistic missile was used, forcing the tanker named 'Daisy' to return. The Houthis have claimed responsibility for multiple attacks on Saudi tankers since implementing a maritime blockade in late July.