Analysis & Reports

During a recent Senate hearing in Washington D.C., Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth faced bipartisan criticism for his evasive responses regarding the U.S. strategy in the war on Iran. Senators highlighted a significant drop in public support for the war and questioned the administration's shifting justifications. Concerns were raised about the implications of the war on the U.S. defense budget and military readiness.

U.S. Central Command conducted missile strikes against Iranian military targets in multiple locations, including Sirik County, Ahvaz, and Bushehr County, on July 22, 2023, at 17:30 EDT. Explosions were reported in these areas, indicating the strikes' impact.

The U.S. military conducted a missile strike at the Shalamcheh border crossing between Iran and Iraq on July 23, resulting in 2 fatalities.

Houthi forces attacked two Saudi oil tankers in the Red Sea on July 23, 2023, using ballistic missiles and drones, which resulted in the vessels catching fire. The attack was part of a declared maritime blockade against Saudi Arabia, with Houthi officials warning of further military actions against Saudi targets.

Ukraine struck 13 Russian shadow fleet vessels in the Sea of Azov and Black Sea on July 21-22, as part of a renewed effort to target sanctioned vessels. The Ukrainian Unmanned Systems Forces reported a total of 126 vessels hit in the Azov Sea and 70 in the Black Sea. This operation is part of Ukraine's strategy to disrupt Russia's maritime operations and energy exports.

The U.S. consulate in Erbil activated its air defense system and intercepted a drone flying overhead on the evening of the 22nd. This action was taken to ensure the safety of the consulate amid potential aerial threats.

The UAE Air Force showcased two aircraft during the 2026 Farnborough International Airshow in the United Kingdom. A British Royal Air Force CH-47 Chinook demonstrated its cargo capabilities, while the F-22 Raptor was featured with its weapons bay open. The event highlights various aerial demonstrations, attracting significant attention from attendees.

The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets for the 11th consecutive night, escalating the conflict that has resulted in 18 U.S. soldiers dead and approximately 500 injured since February 28, 2023. Defense Secretary Hagel faced intense scrutiny in Congress over the rising costs of the war, which have reached $37.5 billion. President Trump threatened severe retaliation against Iran for any attacks in the Strait of Hormuz.

A U.S. soldier was reported missing and presumed dead following an attack on a military base in Jordan. Since late February, the Pentagon has confirmed 18 U.S. military deaths, with nearly 100 casualties reported since July. There are allegations of unreported attacks on U.S. forces, leading to injuries and equipment losses, raising public concerns about transparency in casualty reporting.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure on July 22, 2023, as tensions escalated in the Strait of Hormuz and Red Sea. The Houthis announced a blockade against Saudi shipping, leading to significant disruptions in commercial vessel traffic. Vessel tracking data indicated a sharp decline in crossings through both the Strait of Hormuz and Bab el-Mandeb Strait, with multiple tankers altering their routes due to security concerns.

The Houthi militia announced a maritime embargo against Saudi oil in the Red Sea, threatening to attack ships that challenge their blockade. Four tankers altered their routes, and EUNAVFOR ASPIDES advised vessels linked to U.S., Israel, or Saudi interests to avoid the area. The Houthis have deployed missiles and drones near Bab el-Mandeb to enforce the embargo, leading to a significant decline in maritime traffic through the strait.

Ukrainian company Skyfall unveiled the P1-SUN Jetkiller drone interceptor at the Farnborough Airshow, designed to target Russian Shahed drones. The interceptor can reach speeds of 370 km/h and is set for mass production in August, with a target of 50,000 units per month. The Ukrainian Air Force recently reported destroying 46 out of 58 Russian drones in an attack, highlighting the need for such advanced systems.

Ukrainian drone strikes targeted logistics hubs owned by Wildberries in Krasnodar and Stavropol, injuring ten people. This follows earlier attacks on Tambov and Elektrostal, resulting in eight deaths and 62 injuries. President Zelensky described the strikes as 'long-range sanctions' aimed at disrupting supplies to the Russian military. Additionally, Maj. Gen. Mykhailo Drapatyi was appointed as the new commander in chief of Ukraine's armed forces.

Multinational crews are conducting anti-submarine warfare operations aboard U.S. Navy P-8A Poseidon aircraft during RIMPAC 2026 in the Pacific Ocean. The exercise involves 31 nations, 40 surface ships, 5 submarines, and 140 aircraft, focusing on improving coordination and operational procedures among allied forces. Meanwhile, China is testing submarine-launched ballistic missiles and increasing its naval presence near Taiwan, complicating the operational environment for U.S. and allied forces.

Marcus ChenWed Jul 22 2026Loading...

The Boeing MQ-28 Ghost Bat debuted at the Farnborough International Airshow and participated in Exercise Valiant Shield 2026 in June 2026, operating alongside crewed aircraft. The uncrewed aircraft demonstrated its combat capabilities by successfully firing an AIM-120 AMRAAM missile. Designed for missions such as surveillance and electronic warfare, the Ghost Bat has a range exceeding 2,000 nautical miles and is part of a broader trend of integrating uncrewed systems into military operations.

Iranian military officials warned of retaliation against U.S. strikes on Iranian infrastructure, specifically bridges and power plants, following President Trump's threats. They emphasized their control over the Hormuz Strait and stated that vessels must coordinate with Iran for safe passage. The warning was issued on July 22, highlighting Iran's military readiness and resolve.

BAE Systems unveiled the Brontanax, the UK's first uncrewed autonomous Collaborative Combat Aircraft, at the Farnborough International Airshow. The aircraft, designed to enhance combat capabilities alongside crewed aircraft, is expected to enter service before the end of the decade. The UK Government is investing £300 million in the StormFighter programme to support the development of this new technology, which aims to provide advanced electronic warfare and precision strike capabilities.

Poland warns of potential Russian drone provocations using captured Ukrainian drones against NATO territory, specifically targeting Poland, the Baltic states, Finland, and Romania. This warning follows a significant number of Russian clashes with Ukrainian forces and highlights the evolving nature of hybrid threats. The Polish government emphasizes the need for pre-agreed procedures to manage potential incidents effectively.

Alexandra ReevesWed Jul 22 2026Loading...

General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) and MBDA announced a commitment to integrate SPEAR precision strike weapons onto MQ-9B and Gambit 6 aircraft at the Farnborough International Airshow on 21 July 2026. This collaboration aims to enhance the operational capabilities of these platforms in modern air combat.

The Bulgarian parliament approved the deployment of up to 8 U.S. Air Force KC-135 aerial refueling aircraft and 250 personnel at Bezmer Air Base from July 24 to October 1, 2026. The Bulgarian Foreign Ministry received a diplomatic note from Iran regarding this deployment, stating that Bulgaria will not engage in hostile actions against Iran. Iran has warned Bulgaria not to permit U.S. military operations against it.