Analysis & Reports

The First Mobile Division of the Armed Police conducted combat training in mountainous forest terrain during the summer. The exercise involved multiple units, including reconnaissance and assault teams, simulating operations against terrorist threats and a hostage situation. The training focused on enhancing coordination and tactical response capabilities among the troops.

Australia conducted a successful ground launch test of the SM-2 missile from a trailer-based system at Woomera during the Taipan Strike 2026 exercise. The missile intercepted a BQM-74E target drone, demonstrating the adaptability of naval systems for land-based defense. This test follows increased concerns about vulnerabilities to missile threats in the region, particularly after a recent missile launch by a Chinese submarine.

Tanaka TakashiFri Jul 24 2026Loading...

Russian forces conducted airstrikes on Ukrainian military targets, including drone production facilities and ports, on the 23rd. They reported controlling Berytske in the Donetsk region. Ukrainian forces engaged in 261 combat incidents, successfully repelling multiple Russian attacks while their air defense intercepted many incoming threats.

A joint search and rescue operation was launched by Air Force rescue units in response to simulated drowning incidents at sea. Helicopters and landing craft coordinated efforts to locate and retrieve multiple individuals from the water. Medical transport aircraft awaited the return of the rescue teams to provide immediate care. The operation was executed efficiently, with no delays in the transfer of rescued individuals to medical facilities.

On July 24, the Chinese Coast Guard took control measures against multiple Philippine vessels engaged in illegal activities in the Scarborough Shoal.

The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets on July 23 at 18:45 EDT. This operation marks the 13th consecutive night of strikes, aimed at diminishing the Iranian Revolutionary Guard's threat to commercial shipping.

The U.S. military launched a new round of airstrikes against Iranian military targets on July 23, 2023, at 18:45 EDT, marking the 13th consecutive night of such actions. These strikes aim to hold Iran accountable and mitigate threats posed by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard to commercial shipping. Earlier, U.S. forces had compelled 12 commercial vessels to alter their routes and incapacitated one vessel since reinstating maritime blockade operations.

China's Coast Guard began operating a naval Z-20F helicopter from the Haijing 5901, enhancing its maritime capabilities. This new variant is intended for anti-submarine warfare, although its full capabilities remain unconfirmed. The Coast Guard's activity around Taiwan has increased significantly, reflecting a closer integration with the People's Liberation Army Navy. The Z-20F represents a substantial upgrade over older helicopter models.

The Naval Aviation Brigade of the Southern Theater Command conducted live-fire training for carrier-based aircraft. This training emphasized real combat scenarios and performance assessments to improve pilot skills and tactical operations. The exercise aimed to enhance the unit's overall operational capabilities.

On July 23, Iranian air defense intercepted a U.S. Tomahawk cruise missile over Kahnouj in Kerman Province. Explosions were reported near Geshm Island and in the Strait of Hormuz, with local residents confirming multiple blasts in the vicinity.

The U.S. Armed Forces are surging military resources, including 5,000 personnel and various equipment, to the Middle East to enhance operations against Iranian military targets. Special operations forces are being deployed from U.S. bases, and airstrikes have increased under the direction of U.S. Central Command. The ongoing military operations have incurred costs of $37 billion, prompting additional funding requests from Congress.

Russia has attacked at least three civilian cargo ships in the Black Sea, resulting in casualties among crew members. In response, Ukraine has launched drone strikes targeting Russian e-commerce warehouses. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister accused Russia of jeopardizing global food security and announced a request for a UN Security Council meeting to address the situation. This marks a significant escalation in maritime conflict between the two nations.

A Ukrainian F-16 shot down a Russian Su-35 fighter jet in air-to-air combat on the eastern front in July 2026. This marks the first air-to-air kill by a Ukrainian F-16 since their deployment in 2024. The engagement highlights the advancements in Ukraine's air defense capabilities, as confirmed by U.S. military officials.

A U.S. airstrike on Shalamcheh, Iran, on the 23rd resulted in the death of Iranian Army officer Amir Mohammad Salehimi. The attack also left 11 others injured, with a total of 2 fatalities reported. The strike involved missile usage and targeted the border area with Iraq.

The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets on July 22-23, 2023, including facilities in Shalamcheh, Iran. In response, Iranian forces attacked U.S. military installations in Jordan and Kuwait, resulting in casualties. The U.S. has increased its military presence in the region, preparing for further operations against Iran.

Public dissatisfaction with the Iran conflict has reached historic levels, with 68% of Americans stating it is not worth fighting. President Trump's approval rating regarding the war has plummeted to -40, reflecting significant discontent. The ongoing conflict has also led to rising gas prices and concerns among Republican lawmakers about the political ramifications as midterm elections approach.

Houthi forces attacked two Saudi oil tankers off the coast of Shuqaiq on the 23rd, using ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and drones, resulting in fires on the vessels. The attack prompted warnings from the Houthis against Saudi military actions and threats from the U.S. to hold Iran accountable. This incident marks a significant escalation in maritime tensions in the region.

Iranian forces launched drone attacks on CIA facilities in the Gulf region, with indications of Russian assistance in targeting and operational support. Reports suggest that more than one but fewer than twelve facilities were attacked using modified Shahed drones. U.S. intelligence analysts are investigating the extent of Russian involvement in these operations.

The U.S. government is considering military action against the extremist group JNIM in Mali, as reported on October 23, 2023. This potential action could make Mali the eighth country targeted for military strikes during President Trump's term. Internal divisions exist within the U.S. regarding this decision, and the U.S. has increased intelligence sharing with Mali to bolster counter-terrorism efforts.

Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted drone strikes on logistics warehouses belonging to the Russian online retailer Wildberries in Krasnodar Krai and Stavropol Krai, resulting in dozens of casualties. These attacks, confirmed by Ukrainian President Zelensky, aim to disrupt Russian military supply chains. Over the past week, four warehouses have been targeted, causing significant damage and operational losses for the company.