Analysis & Reports

Iranian military conducted drone strikes on U.S. bases at Sheikh Isa in Bahrain and Azraq in Jordan on July 24. The strikes targeted fuel storage facilities, equipment warehouses, and troop camps. This follows a recent series of U.S. strikes against Iran, marking an escalation in military actions between the two nations.

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's Kongo destroyer fired Harpoon missiles during RIMPAC 2026 exercises in Hawaii on July 23, 2026. Concurrently, U.S. Army and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force conducted integrated live-fire exercises with HIMARS. These actions reflect the strengthening of Japan-U.S. military cooperation in both maritime and land operations, particularly in response to regional threats from China.

Tanaka TakashiFri Jul 24 2026Loading...

The Iranian military conducted drone strikes on U.S. bases in Bahrain and Jordan on the morning of the 24th. The Sheikh Isa Base in Bahrain and the Azraq Base in Jordan were targeted, affecting fuel storage and personnel quarters. This operation is part of the ongoing 'Lightning' campaign.

A U.S. B-1 bomber conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets from Fairford base in the UK on July 21, 2023. In response, Iran issued a warning that any foreign military base used for attacks would be considered a legitimate target. The UK subsequently raised its military readiness level due to these developments.

Japan's Defense Minister has called for discussions on nuclear weapons policy, indicating a potential shift from the country's longstanding 'Three Non-Nuclear Principles'. The government is considering introducing U.S. nuclear weapons and developing its own nuclear capabilities, including submarines and long-range missiles. This move poses significant implications for regional security and international order.

Airbus Helicopters is advancing Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T) systems through various projects, including the VSR700 drone and HTeaming technology. In 2024, interoperability tests demonstrated successful cooperation between crewed helicopters and unmanned systems in France and Italy. The Spanish Navy conducted successful trials with the H135M and Flexrotor drone in 2025, showcasing real-time reconnaissance capabilities. These developments are part of a broader effort to enhance military operations through integrated drone and helicopter systems.

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.

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.

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.

North Korea is expanding its nuclear arsenal, aiming for 300-500 nuclear warheads to enhance its deterrence capabilities against the U.S. and its allies. Kim Jong-un's strategy focuses on regime survival and military dominance, with missile tests conducted to showcase power. The U.S. has struggled to counter North Korea's nuclear ambitions, leading to concerns about the effectiveness of its deterrent strategies.

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.

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 2026 Farnborough International Airshow featured displays of military and defense equipment, including MBDA's air-defense system components and hypersonic munitions. Beta Technologies showcased its MV250 autonomous VTOL aircraft, while Pratt & Whitney presented the F135-PW-100 turbofan engine. Embraer's KC-390 Millennium was also demonstrated in flight.

Elbit Systems's U-TacS is proposing the Watchkeeper X variant for the UK's Project Corvus, aimed at fulfilling a requirement for a long-range reconnaissance drone.

Elbit Systems's U-TacS proposed the Watchkeeper X variant for the UK's Project Corvus, aimed at fulfilling a requirement for a long-range reconnaissance drone. This initiative highlights the ongoing development and procurement of advanced military drone technology in the UK.

Greece approved a $4 billion procurement of the Achilles Shield air defense system to enhance its defense against missile and drone threats. The system, expected to be operational within 35 months, will incorporate Israeli technology and involve Greek production. This decision reflects Greece's strategic shift towards modernizing its military capabilities amid regional security challenges.

Alexandra ReevesThu Jul 23 2026Loading...

The UK’s National Armaments Director Group awarded a £20m contract to Lockheed Martin UK for the delivery of Project Bowline, which involves hypersonic target systems. This contract highlights the UK's ongoing investment in advanced military technology.

The U.S. military is conducting a conventional campaign against Iran, focusing on the Strait of Hormuz, where Iran employs asymmetric tactics, including drone attacks and threats to commercial shipping. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps continues to control fast boats and missiles, posing challenges to U.S. operations. Iran's strategy aims to impose economic costs and outlast U.S. efforts in the region.

A Russian Su-57 Felon stealth fighter crashed in Odintsovo, Moscow Oblast during a training flight. The pilot ejected safely before the aircraft went down in a field, reportedly avoiding residential areas. Eyewitnesses indicated that the aircraft exploded after the pilot's ejection, and initial assessments suggest the aircraft has been destroyed.