Analysis & Reports

USS Gerald R. Ford is currently deployed in the Mediterranean Sea for over 246 days, preparing for potential combat operations against Iran. The carrier's crew faces challenges, including mechanical issues and morale concerns due to clogged toilets. In contrast, USS New Jersey maintained combat readiness for 14 months during WWII, showcasing the endurance of naval forces in prolonged deployments.

The U.S. Air Force awarded a $33 million contract to Top Aces Corp. for F-16 instructor pilot training in Argentina, expected to continue through June 30, 2029. This program aims to enhance local fighter aviation proficiency and operational capability without relying on overseas training. The training will focus on F-16 operations and is part of Foreign Military Sales to Argentina, allowing pilots to develop skills in their regional environment.

Cuba's Ministry of Interior reported the seizure of assault rifles, pistols, and other weapons from a boat that entered its territorial waters and exchanged gunfire with Cuban forces on February 25. A U.S. individual involved in the infiltration operation was arrested in Cuba, and the captured suspects indicated plans for a terrorist action.

U.S. military actions targeting suspected drug traffickers in the Caribbean have resulted in at least 151 casualties since September 2025. The recent strike on September 23 led to 3 deaths, raising concerns among Caribbean leaders at the CARICOM summit. They called for constructive dialogue to address U.S. interventions and the humanitarian crisis in Cuba. U.S. Secretary of State Rubio is set to meet with regional leaders to discuss security and economic issues.

The U.S. Air Force is modernizing the F-22 Raptor to the 'Super' Raptor standard by 2026, investing $9 billion in upgrades including the AIM-260 Joint Advanced Tactical Missile and advanced IRST systems. This modernization aims to ensure air superiority against adversaries like China and Russia. The Rapid Raptor program enhances deployment capabilities, allowing the F-22 to be operational within 24 to 48 hours.

USS Gerald R. Ford is deployed to the Middle East, facing potential military confrontation with Iran. The deployment, which began in June 2022, may extend to 11 months, causing fatigue among the approximately 5,000 sailors on board. Reports indicate issues with the ship's sewage system and crew dissatisfaction, with some considering leaving the Navy. The carrier is expected to dock in Haifa, Israel, after transiting the Mediterranean Sea.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) has been deployed for over 230 days, transitioning from operations in Venezuela to the Middle East. This extended deployment raises concerns about the mental health of the crew, with research indicating a link between long deployments and issues such as PTSD and anxiety. The ship may remain at sea for up to 300 days, potentially supporting military operations against Iran.

President Trump awarded the Medal of Honor to Army Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover and retired Navy Capt. Royce Williams for their valor in military operations. Slover was recognized for his actions during a mission in Caracas, Venezuela, while Williams was honored for his aerial combat during the Korean War. Additionally, ten other service members involved in the Maduro mission will receive medals at a later ceremony.

Chief Warrant Officer 5 Eric Slover of the U.S. Army received the Medal of Honor during the State of the Union address for his bravery in a raid that captured Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. Slover was wounded by enemy fire while leading the mission aboard a Chinook helicopter in Caracas. President Trump highlighted the dangers of the operation and Slover's critical role in its success.

The U.S. military is preparing for potential aerial strikes against Iran, with nearly half of its deployable air power already sent to the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford is on an extended deployment in the Mediterranean, while the Pentagon has evacuated non-essential personnel from Lebanon. Additionally, the U.S. military conducted a boat strike in the Caribbean, killing three individuals involved in drug trafficking. President Trump is considering an initial strike to pressure Iran regarding its nuclear capabilities.

On February 23, U.S. Southern Command conducted an airstrike against a drug trafficking vessel in the Caribbean Sea, resulting in the deaths of three male traffickers identified as terrorists. No U.S. personnel were reported injured during the operation.

The Mexican Army killed cartel leader Nemesio Rubén Oseguera Cervantes in Tapalpa, Jalisco, triggering 27 retaliatory attacks across Mexico. These attacks resulted in the deaths of nearly three dozen cartel members and two dozen Mexican National Guard soldiers. The operation, which involved U.S. intelligence support, also led to the seizure of armored vehicles and rocket launchers capable of downing aircraft.

The report highlights the necessity of integrating the U.S. Coast Guard into maritime strategy to achieve maritime dominance. It emphasizes that the Coast Guard's law enforcement capabilities are essential for enforcing sovereignty and competing strategically, particularly against rivals like China. The report calls for a reassessment of fleet architecture to include Coast Guard assets as integral components of U.S. maritime power.

The Nigerian government allegedly paid millions to Boko Haram for the release of 230 hostages taken from St. Mary’s School in Papiri on November 21, 2022. Negotiations were led by National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, despite official denials of ransom payments. The payment, reportedly delivered by helicopter, raises concerns about Nigeria's counter-terrorism strategy and its implications for regional security.

Marie DuboisMon Feb 23 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy relieved Cmdr. James Koffi of his duties as commanding officer of the USS Truxtun following a collision with the USNS Supply on February 11, 2026, in the Caribbean. Two sailors sustained minor injuries. The USS Truxtun is currently in port in Ponce, Puerto Rico, and Cmdr. Taylor Auclair has been appointed as the new commanding officer.

The U.S. military has prioritized hemispheric defense following the capture of Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro in January 2026, reallocating naval assets from other regions. Indonesia plans to enhance its maritime capabilities by acquiring the Italian aircraft carrier Giuseppe Garibaldi, while the Philippines deepens military cooperation with the U.S. through extensive joint exercises. Concurrently, India is strengthening defense ties with the U.S. as regional security dynamics shift.

Marcus ChenMon Feb 23 2026Loading...

Captain James Coffey of the USS Truxtun was relieved of duty on February 22, 2023, due to a loss of confidence in his command following a collision with a U.S. Navy supply ship on February 11, 2023. The incident occurred during a replenishment operation, and the cause is under investigation. The USS Truxtun is currently docked in Puerto Rico.

The U.S. Navy relieved Cmdr. James Koffi of command of the USS Truxtun after the destroyer collided with the USNS Supply during a replenishment operation in the Caribbean. Cmdr. Taylor Auclair has been appointed as the interim commander. The incident, which occurred in February 2025, is currently under investigation.

China has developed advanced quantum sensors and a Kelvin wake detection system to track U.S. nuclear submarines in the South China Sea. These technologies aim to enhance China's anti-submarine warfare capabilities, posing a potential challenge to U.S. naval stealth. The U.S. Navy continues to express confidence in its submarine fleet's effectiveness.

The SR-71 Blackbird, developed by Lockheed Martin's Skunk Works, conducted reconnaissance missions from the late 1960s until its retirement in 1999. It achieved remarkable speeds of 2,193 mph and altitudes of 85,069 feet, outpacing threats during its operational period. The aircraft was retired due to high costs and the advent of satellite technology, marking the end of an era in military aviation.