Analysis & Reports

U.S. Air Force F-35s participated in India's Tarang Shakti air exercise in Jodhpur, Rajasthan, from September 26 to October 12, 2026. The exercise involved eight countries and aimed to test interoperability between U.S. and Indian forces against the backdrop of China's expanding airpower. Indian aircraft, including Rafales and Su-30MKIs, operated alongside the F-35s, with a focus on sharing sensor information and combat tactics.

Marcus ChenFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

In 2026, armed groups, particularly Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and Islamic State Sahel Province (ISSP), increased incursions across the Nigeria-Sahel border, notably in Katsina, Sokoto, and Kebbi. The relationship between Nigeria and the Sahel States Alliance (AES) has deteriorated, complicating military coordination. The region has seen a rise in terrorist incidents, with a notable increase in violence and operational challenges for local forces.

Marie DuboisFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

On September 20, 2026, the USS Canberra and P-8A Poseidon participated in a joint maritime cooperation exercise in Yokosuka, involving eight countries including Japan and the Philippines. The exercise included disaster response tabletop exercises and aimed to enhance interoperability among naval forces in the South China Sea. The focus was on establishing common procedures and information sharing among the participating nations.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

The Chinese Navy conducted training exercises with the 054A frigate in the Japan Sea on August 22, 2026, focusing on anti-submarine warfare and operational readiness. This development indicates a shift in China's naval strategy, emphasizing both coastal defense and open sea operations. Japan is urged to adapt its defense strategies in response to the growing capabilities of the Chinese Navy.

Tanaka TakashiFri Sep 25 2026Loading...

Wang Tao has transitioned from a pilot to the deputy commander of the Fujian aircraft carrier, showcasing his extensive military experience. He has flown over 1,700 hours in various fighter jets and has played a significant role in training new pilots. The People's Liberation Army Navy is currently undergoing a transformation, with Wang Tao's leadership being pivotal in this process.

On April 3, 2026, U.S. forces conducted a rescue operation for the crew of a downed F-15E in Iran, utilizing A-10 Warthogs for air support. The A-10s targeted Iranian fast-attack boats in the Strait of Hormuz, demonstrating their adaptability in maritime operations. The operation highlighted the ongoing relevance of older aircraft in modern military engagements, as the A-10's retirement has been postponed to 2030.

US Air Force General Alexus Grynkewich announced that the US will continue to provide critical but limited military capabilities to NATO during a change of command ceremony in Norfolk, Virginia. He highlighted NATO's readiness to counter potential threats from Russia, including warnings of intensified hybrid warfare. Grynkewich reassured European allies of the alliance's strength and capability to manage risks, despite concerns over a possible limited military attack from Russia.

General George S. Patton Jr. led the 304th Tank Brigade during the Meuse-Argonne Offensive in September 1918, where he was shot in the thigh but continued to direct his troops. His leadership style emphasized discipline and aggression, and he later commanded forces during the Allied invasion of Sicily in World War II, showcasing his significant role in military operations.

U.S. soldiers from the 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division are deploying to Lithuania as part of Operation Atlantic Resolve. This deployment replaces the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division and continues the U.S. military presence in the region, which has been ongoing since 2019. The incoming force is expected to include more than 1,000 troops, reflecting ongoing concerns about Russian military activity near NATO's eastern flank.

Indra deployed a new long-range Lanza 3D radar to Phuket Air Base, Thailand, on September 24, 2026, to enhance air surveillance capabilities. This marks the third radar of its kind contracted by the Royal Thai Air Force, reflecting confidence in the technology. The radar will improve detection against various threats and includes command and control capabilities through Indra's AIRDEF system.

Sgt. 1st Class Kevin Harrington, named the 2026 Army Reserve Drill Sergeant of the Year, emphasizes the importance of empathy in training recruits at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. He highlights that drill sergeants are not just authoritative figures but also coaches and mentors. The recent competition at Fort Sill, Oklahoma, involved various events to assess drill sergeants' skills, focusing on teaching and support rather than traditional harsh methods.

A U.S. Army heavy battalion and an engineer battalion are deploying to Lithuania at the end of October, totaling about 1,000 soldiers. This deployment ends a gap of several months without a U.S. rotational force in the country. The engineer battalion will support Lithuania's army division and border protection projects, continuing the U.S. military presence in the region.

Houthi forces regained control of strategic coastal areas in Yemen, including the Bab el Mandeb Strait, in September 2023. They are employing advanced drone tactics against Saudi Arabia, which has failed to effectively counter these advances. This situation has disrupted global shipping routes and highlighted the weaknesses of the Saudi-led coalition.

NATO is conducting large-scale naval exercises in the North Sea and Atlantic Ocean, involving the UK Carrier Strike Group and other allied forces. The exercises, named 'Strike Warrior', focus on the coordinated use of unmanned systems, including surface vessels, submersibles, and drones. These operations aim to protect undersea infrastructure and prepare for potential engagements with Russian naval forces. The exercises began on September 21, 2023.

The U.S. Air Force is eliminating civilian staff roles at the China Aerospace Studies Institute (CASI) in Washington but will continue its operations using military personnel. This restructuring is part of an ongoing civilian overhaul within the Air Force. CASI remains a key entity for research on China's military capabilities, with its latest publication focusing on Beijing's space technologies and their potential military applications.

The U.S. Air Force is eliminating civilian staff roles at the China Aerospace Studies Institute (CASI) in Washington, but the organization will continue its mission with military personnel. This decision is part of a broader civilian restructure within the Air Force. The move has prompted questions regarding the status of similar military study projects in the Army and Navy.

The Space Force is seeking several hundred officer and enlisted personnel to transfer from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps between September 15 and October 2, 2023. The initiative aims to bolster the ranks of the Space Force, particularly focusing on mid-grade officers and enlisted members with relevant experience. This marks the first transfer program in three years, as the Space Force aims to meet its growing personnel needs.

General George Patton commanded the Third Army during the Battle of the Bulge, which lasted from December 16, 1944, to January 25, 1945. Over 700,000 Allied troops were involved, with a key objective to relieve the besieged town of Bastogne. Patton's forces faced severe winter conditions and German resistance but successfully opened a corridor into Bastogne, contributing to the Allied victory.

Admiral William Halsey commanded the USS Enterprise during the attack on Pearl Harbor in December 1941. He was promoted to Vice-Admiral in June 1940 and played a significant role in naval operations against the Japanese Empire during World War II. Halsey faced challenges, including a typhoon and health issues, which impacted his command. He is recognized for his aggressive tactics and leadership throughout his military career.

Putin's United Russia party secured 355 seats in the Duma amid allegations of electoral manipulation. Increasing public anger over the war's impact raises concerns about a potential new military mobilization, which could face significant resistance. The Russian armed forces are reportedly suffering 30,000 casualties monthly, and North Korea is providing some manpower, but this is insufficient for sustaining the war effort.