Analysis & Reports

U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft are currently engaged in maritime interdiction operations targeting Iranian fast-attack craft in the Strait of Hormuz. This action is part of Operation Epic Fury, with over 100 Iranian naval vessels reportedly destroyed. The A-10's capabilities allow for persistent overwatch and effective engagement of small surface craft.

U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft are currently engaged in maritime interdiction operations targeting Iranian fast-attack craft in the Strait of Hormuz. This engagement is part of Operation Epic Fury, with U.S. Central Command reporting the destruction of over 100 Iranian naval vessels. The A-10's capabilities allow for persistent overwatch and effective engagement of small surface craft.

The Pentagon is seeking $200 billion in funding for the ongoing war in Iran, which began on February 28, 2023. U.S. and Israeli forces have conducted airstrikes, targeting over 7,000 sites, including missile stockpiles and drone launch sites. The military campaign, known as Operation Epic Fury, has incurred costs of $12 billion so far.

The U.S. military is conducting operations in Iran, having struck 7,000 targets, including maritime vessels and minelayers, as part of Operation Epic Fury. The Pentagon plans to request approximately $200 billion for these operations and to replenish munitions stockpiles. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth indicated that the funding request is aimed at ensuring U.S. defense capabilities are enhanced beyond current levels.

U.S. Apache helicopters are conducting airstrikes against Iranian-aligned militia groups in Iraq as part of military operations initiated on February 28, 2024. This action aims to suppress threats to U.S. forces and interests in the region. The U.S. embassy in Baghdad has faced repeated attacks from these militias, highlighting the ongoing conflict between the U.S. and Iranian proxies.

Hezbollah Brigades announced a five-day suspension of attacks on the U.S. Embassy in Baghdad, contingent upon several conditions, including a halt to Israeli bombings in Beirut. The group warned that if these conditions are not met, they will resume and intensify their attacks. This announcement follows a series of drone and rocket strikes on the embassy since late February 2023.

Iran continues to launch missiles and drones across the Gulf region despite significant losses from US-Israeli airstrikes. On March 14, US Central Command reported the destruction of over 90 military targets in Iran, while Iranian forces shifted to low-cost, decentralized drone attacks. The conflict has resulted in substantial casualties and economic disruption, with oil prices surging above $100 per barrel. The situation remains tense as both sides adapt their strategies in an ongoing asymmetric warfare context.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu Mar 19 2026Loading...

Iran has deployed new missile systems, including the 'Mudstone'-2 and 'Haj Qasim' missiles, indicating readiness for prolonged conflict against the U.S. The 'Mudstone'-2, equipped with cluster munitions, poses challenges to Western air defenses. Military experts estimate that Iran may have hundreds of these missiles, enhancing its strike capabilities. The introduction of these systems suggests Iran's commitment to sustaining its military operations in the region.

On March 14, 2026, the U.S. military announced the emergency deployment of 2,500 Marines from Sasebo to the Middle East in response to the Iran crisis. Japan is contemplating sending minesweeping vessels to assist in securing energy routes, as the closure of the Hormuz Strait poses a significant threat to its energy supply. This situation highlights the strategic vulnerabilities of Japan amid declining U.S. military presence in East Asia.

Tanaka TakashiThu Mar 19 2026Loading...

NATO is revising its integrated air and missile defense planning amid rising threats from Russia and recent military engagements. The Eastern Sentry initiative integrates air defense capabilities across NATO's eastern flank, successfully intercepting Iranian ballistic missiles aimed at Turkey. Concurrently, NATO conducts various military exercises in the Nordic-Baltic region, emphasizing persistent operations and enhanced readiness.

Alexandra ReevesThu Mar 19 2026Loading...

The U.S. administration is considering deploying thousands of troops to reinforce military operations against Iran as the conflict enters its third week. Discussions include securing the Strait of Hormuz and potentially sending ground forces to Kharg Island, crucial for Iran's oil exports. The U.S. has conducted extensive airstrikes, resulting in significant damage to Iranian military assets, while U.S. casualties have also been reported.

The U.S. government is considering deploying thousands of soldiers to the Middle East to enhance military operations against Iran. This decision comes as the U.S.-Israel-Iran conflict continues into its third week, with options including securing tanker passage through the Hormuz Strait primarily through air and naval forces.

Russia's military capabilities in the Arctic are being limited by the Ukraine war, while it continues to enhance its operational readiness. The Kola Peninsula, crucial for its nuclear capabilities, hosts significant military assets, including the Northern Fleet. Russia aims to assert its interests in the Arctic amidst growing U.S. influence and competition with China, which is also expanding its presence in the region.

Russia's military capabilities in the Arctic are being constrained by the ongoing Ukraine war, affecting its strategic ambitions in the region. The Kola Peninsula, crucial for Russia's nuclear capabilities, hosts significant military assets, including the Northern Fleet. Despite these challenges, Russia continues to enhance its military readiness and views the Arctic as vital for its security and economic interests. Concurrently, China is increasing its Arctic presence, seeking to expand its influence through scientific and commercial ventures.

Lockheed Martin successfully tested an upgraded version of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) designed to target moving vessels at sea. The missile, launched from a HIMARS system, demonstrated its capability by flying over 200 miles. This test is part of the U.S. Army's long-range fire program, enhancing the Army's ability to strike both land and maritime threats. The upgraded missile builds on its predecessor and is set for further testing this year.

Mail services to military post offices in the Middle East have been suspended, affecting the delivery of care packages. Troopathon has sent 1,000 boxes to the aircraft carrier Gerald R. Ford and 2,000 boxes to other troops. The U.S. Postal Service is holding packages for future delivery once suspensions are lifted, while various organizations continue to send care packages to support service members' morale.

U.S. and Israeli forces attacked a judicial institution in Larestan County, Iran, on March 18, resulting in 14 deaths and 50 injuries. Among the deceased are two judges and two staff members, as reported by the chief justice of Fars Province.

Iran launched five ballistic missiles at Ras Laffan Industrial City in Qatar on March 18, 2023, resulting in a fire after one missile struck the facility. The Qatari defense forces intercepted four of the missiles, and no casualties have been reported. The attack has been condemned by Qatar's Ministry of Foreign Affairs as a serious escalation.

On March 18, 2023, Saudi Arabian Defense Forces intercepted and destroyed 4 ballistic missiles targeting Riyadh. The attack triggered air defense alerts across the city, marking the first such alert since military actions against Iran commenced on February 28. Fortunately, no casualties were reported, and the area was declared safe by civil defense authorities shortly after the incident.

Iran's Speaker of Parliament announced a principle of retaliation against attacks on Iranian infrastructure, stating that such actions are akin to suicide. On March 18, 2023, Iranian oil facilities in Bushehr Province were reportedly attacked by the U.S. and Israel, prompting the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps to declare that related oil facilities will be targeted in response.