Analysis & Reports

Russian forces conducted mechanized assaults near Lyman in March 2026, utilizing over 20 armored vehicles. Ukraine's air defense effectiveness has declined due to ammunition shortages, while NATO members collectively increased defense spending to over $1.4 trillion. Ongoing negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow have stalled, with no progress made on key issues. Poland has notably ramped up its military rearmament efforts in response to regional threats.

Dmitri VolkovSun Mar 29 2026Loading...

Ukrainian forces destroyed three Russian heavy multiple launch rocket systems and a transport-loader vehicle near Karakul in Crimea using a long-range one-way strike drone. The operation was executed by Ukraine’s Unmanned Systems Forces with intelligence support from the Security Service of Ukraine. This strike is part of a broader strategy to degrade Russian artillery capabilities.

A service group from a rocket force unit provided various support services to military personnel in remote mountainous areas. These services included legal, medical, psychological, and cultural assistance, aimed at improving the well-being and morale of the troops. Personnel expressed appreciation for the initiative and requested more frequent visits.

The JAS 39 Gripen, developed by Saab AB, is a multirole fighter jet that entered service with the Swedish Air Force in 1996. It has evolved through various models, with the latest Gripen E/F variant introduced in 2019, featuring advanced radar and electronic warfare systems. The aircraft is designed for versatility in air-to-air and air-to-ground missions, supporting a wide range of weapons.

USS Gerald R. Ford arrived in Split, Croatia on Saturday for repairs and maintenance following a non-combat fire incident that injured three sailors. The aircraft carrier, part of U.S. Navy operations, has been deployed for nine months and previously operated in the Red Sea and against Venezuela. The U.S. embassy stated that the visit aims to strengthen ties between the United States and Croatia.

USS Gerald R. Ford arrived in Split, Croatia on Saturday for repairs and maintenance following a non-combat fire incident that occurred on March 12, injuring three sailors. The carrier, which has been deployed for nine months, was previously involved in operations against Iran and Venezuela. It is staffed by over 5,000 sailors and carries more than 75 military aircraft, including F-18 Super Hornets.

USS Gerald R. Ford entered Split port in Croatia on March 28, 2023, for maintenance as part of its operational schedule. The Croatian government had approved the carrier's entry into its waters. The USS Ford, the lead ship of its class, has been deployed for about nine months and has previously engaged in military operations against Venezuela and Iran.

Russian forces' spring-summer offensive against Ukraine stalled in March 2026, with Ukrainian forces successfully counterattacking and liberating Berezove. Ukrainian long-range strikes have disrupted Russian oil exports significantly. Public criticism from Russian military commentators highlights systemic issues within the Russian military. Additionally, Russia plans to train over 70,000 drone operators to address operational challenges.

Dmitri VolkovSat Mar 28 2026Loading...

The USS Bush carrier strike group has departed from Norfolk, Virginia, for deployment to the Middle East. This move indicates that the U.S. may have three aircraft carriers engaged in military operations against Iran. The strike group includes the USS Bush and three destroyers: USS Ross, USS Donald Cook, and USS Mason. The USS Ford carrier is currently undergoing repairs in Greece after a fire incident.

Ukrainian forces conducted a strike against Russian drone operators and launch systems identified as 'Gerbera' near the former Donetsk International Airport. This operation aimed to intercept drone attacks before launch, reducing the threat to Ukrainian cities. The strike reflects a shift in strategy to target threats at their source, thereby alleviating pressure on air defense systems.

U.S. military operations in Iran have intensified over the past three weeks, with significant airstrikes conducted. The USS Gerald R. Ford is currently undergoing repairs in Greece, limiting U.S. air capabilities. Tomahawk missile stocks are depleting rapidly, leading to increased reliance on bombers like the B-2, B-1, and B-52. The demand for Patriot missile systems has surged, complicating logistics for U.S. forces.

Russian forces intensified military operations across Ukraine from March 23-27, 2026, launching a concentrated aerial campaign that deployed nearly 1,000 drones and missiles. The strikes targeted critical infrastructure, resulting in civilian casualties in Poltava and Zaporizhzhia. Concurrently, Russian ground operations maintained pressure in Kharkiv and Donetsk Oblasts, with claims of territorial gains. The introduction of new drone systems indicates an evolving tactical approach as Russia prepares for a significant ground offensive.

Dmitri VolkovSat Mar 28 2026Loading...

The U.S. Army is developing cost-effective methods to counter drone threats using existing ammunition, while Ukraine has integrated shotguns and specialized rounds for anti-drone defense. Israel's Iron Beam laser system provides a low-cost solution for intercepting drones. These developments reflect a shift in military strategy to address the increasing use of drones in conflicts across Iran, Israel, and Ukraine.

In March 2026, the USS Gerald R. Ford was withdrawn from operations in the Middle East for repairs after a fire, impacting U.S. strike operations in Iran. The U.S. Navy is facing a shortage of operational aircraft carriers due to maintenance delays and overlapping schedules, with multiple carriers out of action simultaneously. This situation is exacerbated by the aging fleet and logistical challenges at the Newport News shipyard, which is critical for carrier maintenance and construction.

U.S. Secretary of State Rubio announced that military operations by the U.S. and Israel against Iran will continue for 2 to 4 weeks. He confirmed that no meetings are planned regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict. Additionally, the U.S. has deployed thousands of troops to the Middle East to support military objectives without sending ground forces.

The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier experienced a fire in its laundry area on March 12, 2023, leading to the abandonment of frontline operations. Over 600 crew members are currently sleeping on decks in Souda Bay, Crete, as the ship undergoes repairs. The incident has raised concerns about the carrier's operational readiness and ongoing mechanical issues.

Ukraine is transitioning its military training to domestic soil while exporting expertise in drone warfare and electronic warfare to allies, particularly Germany. This shift is part of a broader strategy to enhance NATO's capabilities in response to Russian military adaptations. Ukraine's DELTA system has been integrated into NATO exercises, showcasing its frontline experience against Russia. The move reflects a growing partnership with NATO as Ukraine prepares for potential future conflicts.

The U.S. has demanded Ukraine cede the Donbas region as a condition for security guarantees, which President Zelenskyy deems unacceptable. Russia has intensified its military operations, launching nearly 1,000 strikes in a single day, while Ukraine retaliated with drone attacks. Experts express skepticism about the viability of U.S. guarantees, citing historical failures and the potential for increased conflict.

Russia launched nearly 1,000 strikes in a significant spring offensive against Ukraine, which responded with about 400 drone strikes that crippled Russian oil exports. U.S. security guarantees for Ukraine require a withdrawal from Donbas, a demand deemed unacceptable by Ukrainian officials. Negotiations with the U.S. have stalled, raising concerns about the implications for future military engagements and regional security.

Ukrainian drones entered Baltic airspace, striking targets in Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania on March 25, 2025. The incursions, attributed to Russian electronic warfare, raised alarms in the affected countries. No injuries occurred, but the incidents highlighted vulnerabilities in Baltic air defenses against drone threats.