Analysis & Reports

U.S. Navy destroyers are concentrated in the Middle East as U.S. forces conduct operations against Iran. As of September 14, 2023, 15 guided-missile destroyers are operating in the Red Sea and Arabian Sea. The USS Carney has conducted numerous engagements against Houthi-launched weapons, highlighting the operational demands on the fleet amid ongoing maintenance challenges.

South Korea faces military capacity dilemmas as it considers U.S. requests for support in the Strait of Hormuz while managing escalating threats from North Korea. The South Korean Army reported recent missile launches by North Korea, prompting concerns over troop deployment. President Lee Jae Myeong has ruled out war deployment, suggesting instead the extension of the Cheonghae Unit's operations for limited maritime security and humanitarian assistance.

Nigerian soldiers repelled an attack by ISWAP in Pulka on September 7, 2026, maintaining their defensive position. One soldier was injured, and air support was utilized against the retreating attackers. The military reported recovering weapons and ammunition, but did not disclose the extent of enemy losses. The ongoing threat from ISWAP and Boko Haram continues to pressure military and civilian communities in the region.

Marie DuboisTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

Houthi forces have significantly enhanced their military capabilities by developing advanced weapons using AI, enabling missile launches over 1000 miles towards Israel. They have increased control over key locations in Yemen, including the port city of Mocha, and are capable of conducting drone attacks in the Red Sea. Despite some reliance on Iranian components, they are producing more weaponry locally, posing a growing threat to U.S. and Israeli interests.

The Royal Air Force (RAF) is refueling Saudi jets in the Red Sea to bolster their defensive operations against Houthi attacks as of September 21, 2026. This time-limited mission aims to enhance Saudi air defense capabilities amid a renewed Houthi campaign threatening military sites and energy infrastructure. The operation utilizes an Airbus A330 MRTT Voyager to extend the operational range of Saudi fighters.

Alexandra ReevesTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

On September 10, 2026, JNIM launched an attack on a Malian army position in Dioura, resulting in over 100 soldiers killed. JNIM claimed to have killed 150 soldiers and captured 93. The attack underscores the vulnerability of isolated military positions in central Mali and raises questions about the effectiveness of Malian forces and their Russian allies in maintaining control.

Marie DuboisTue Sep 22 2026Loading...

Paramount unveiled the V-Raven unmanned aircraft at the Africa Aerospace and Defence exhibition in South Africa on September 19, 2023. The V-Raven features vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, allowing it to operate from remote locations. It comes in petrol and electric versions, with the petrol version capable of flying for up to eight hours. An armed variant with precision-guided munitions is also in development.

The Malian army evacuated two companies from Dioura on September 21, 2026, following intense fighting with JNIM, which claimed significant casualties. Nearly 100 Malian soldiers and five members of the Russian Africa Corps were reported killed. The JNIM's strategy appears focused on eroding the Malian state's ability to maintain remote positions, highlighting vulnerabilities in the region.

Marie DuboisMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

A presumed mutiny was thwarted by military authorities in Niger on September 20, 2026, with Burkina Faso publicly supporting the junta. The incident highlights internal crises affecting the Alliance of Sahel States, raising concerns about military cohesion and operational vulnerabilities in the region. The junta faces the challenge of maintaining state stability while managing internal trust issues among military officers.

Marie DuboisMon Sep 21 2026Loading...

On September 20, 2023, the Rapid Support Forces conducted a drone strike in Obeid, North Kordofan, resulting in the deaths of 2 civilians and injuries to 20 others. The strike targeted several residential areas, causing significant damage to civilian infrastructure. This incident is part of an ongoing escalation of conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces.

Ukraine launched a large-scale drone attack on Moscow on September 20, 2023, targeting key oil infrastructure and residential areas, resulting in three deaths and 20 injuries. The operation involved 1,600 drones, with 450 aimed at the capital, damaging the Moscow Oil Refinery and prompting evacuations in affected neighborhoods. This attack coincided with the final day of Russia's parliamentary elections, raising concerns about its impact on the voting process.

Iranian Army Commander Jahanshahi announced the deployment of large forces along Iran's borders on the 20th, in response to potential threats. Troops are stationed in the northwest, west, southwest, east, northeast, southeast, and coastal areas, maintaining a high state of readiness with various military units including special forces and artillery.

Sudan accuses Ethiopia of permitting Rapid Support Forces (RSF) drones to launch strikes from its territory, particularly in the Blue Nile State. On September 17, 2026, General Malik Agar highlighted increasing hostility from Addis-Ababa. The ongoing drone activity raises concerns about potential cross-border conflicts, with humanitarian organizations reporting civilian impacts.

Marie DuboisSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

Dwight D. Eisenhower led the largest amphibious invasion in history during World War II and managed a coalition of Allied forces with conflicting interests. His leadership philosophy emphasized persuasion and cooperation, which he applied during critical military operations and as U.S. President. Eisenhower's actions during the Suez Crisis demonstrated his willingness to confront allies to maintain international stability.

Algeria is reassessing its military doctrine in response to security threats from JNIM and ISIS in the Sahel. The country is considering a more active military presence beyond its borders, particularly in the In Guezzam and Agadez regions. This shift is driven by the need to address the growing influence of armed groups and the changing geopolitical landscape in the region. Algeria aims to maintain control over its immediate neighborhood and prevent foreign military presence.

Marie DuboisSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

The Russian Armed Forces intercepted and shot down 1110 Ukrainian fixed-wing drones over 20 locations, including Belgorod, Bryansk, and Kursk Oblasts, on September 20. This operation reflects ongoing defensive actions against UAV incursions in Russian airspace.

Houthi forces launched a ballistic missile towards Riyadh on September 19, 2026, which was intercepted by Saudi defenses. This incident marks the first air alert in the capital since July and is viewed as a significant operational and political message. The attack has implications for the Mecca Alliance, as Turkey considers military support for Saudi Arabia amid ongoing regional tensions.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Sep 20 2026Loading...

Malian Armed Forces confirmed casualties and captures of soldiers during military operations in Jouala on September 19, 2023. The military has been engaged in operations against armed groups for over a week, following an attack on their camp. They are continuing targeted strikes and rescue efforts for captured personnel.

Five suspects linked to Ansaru are on trial in Ibadan, Oyo State, for the kidnapping of students and teachers. This marks a significant operational shift for Ansaru, indicating their activities are extending beyond traditional strongholds. The trial reveals the tactical complexities involved in such kidnappings and suggests a growing threat to security in Nigeria's southwestern region.

Marie DuboisSat Sep 19 2026Loading...

The Kunming ship of the 49th Escort Task Force conducted a counter-terrorism and anti-piracy exercise in the Gulf of Aden. The exercise involved warning shots at suspicious vessels and a successful armed rescue operation of crew members from a hijacked merchant ship. This training aimed to improve the ship's operational capabilities and coordination among units.