Analysis & Reports

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 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.

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.

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.

A Marine veteran died in a security incident at Camp Lejeune. The event is classified as a security-related incident, and it has been reported by a reliable source.

Denmark's Defense Minister announced plans to invite NATO allies to participate in military exercises in the Arctic region. This initiative aims to enhance cooperation and readiness among NATO forces. The specific details regarding troop numbers and equipment involved were not disclosed.

U.S. Air Force and Navy aircraft will participate in the 2026 Super Bowl in the United States. This involvement signifies a military operation at a civilian event, showcasing military readiness and presence.

The F-15 squadron of the U.S. Air Force returned to the Middle East after conducting operations against Iranian drones. The operations involved airstrikes targeting these drones, demonstrating the ongoing military engagement in the region.

Canada is conducting a military simulation exercise that simulates a U.S. military invasion, marking the first such event in a century. The exercise involves the Canadian Armed Forces and reflects heightened military preparedness.

A B-52 Stratofortress Bomber crashed in Greenland during the Cold War while carrying 4 hydrogen bombs. The incident involved the U.S. Air Force and highlights the risks associated with military operations during this tense period.

Aircraft from North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) are flying to Greenland to support established missions. This deployment indicates ongoing military operations in the region.