Analysis & Reports

Houthi forces launched missiles and drones at Abha Airport in Saudi Arabia on July 13, 2026, prompting Saudi defenses to engage with ballistic missiles and conduct airstrikes on Sana'a Airport. This attack marks a significant escalation in the conflict, revealing vulnerabilities in Saudi air defense systems. The operation underscores the ongoing military capabilities of the Houthis and the complex geopolitical landscape in the region.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Jul 14 2026Loading...

The Ukrainian Navy sank the Russian border guard ship Izumrud near Novorossiysk using the Sargan-3000 unmanned strike platform. This operation resulted in casualties among the ship's crew. The Izumrud was previously involved in the 2018 Kerch Strait incident, highlighting its significance in the ongoing conflict. This action is part of Ukraine's broader strategy to target Russian naval assets in the Black Sea.

GABLER and FLANQ successfully completed the Sea Acceptance Test for their Torpedo-Tube-Launched Uncrewed Surface Vessel (TTL USV) named Ranger in northern Germany on July 14, 2025. This vessel can be launched from a standard torpedo tube and operates autonomously, enhancing naval reconnaissance capabilities while maintaining submarine stealth. A strike-capable variant is also planned for future development.

USS Tucson arrived at Naval Base Guam on July 10, 2026, enhancing U.S. Navy's strategic posture in the Pacific. This deployment reduces transit time to key operational areas, allowing for increased military presence. The submarine replaces USS Jefferson City, which has returned to Pearl Harbor, and reflects the U.S. Navy's ongoing reliance on older submarines while awaiting new Virginia-class replacements.

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Houthi forces launched missiles and drones at Abha International Airport on October 13 in retaliation for Saudi airstrikes on Sana'a International Airport. Saudi air defense successfully intercepted the missile attacks. An Iranian passenger plane carrying Houthi representatives was flying to Sana'a at the time of the airstrikes, which targeted the runway of the airport controlled by the Houthis.

Mali and Algeria reopened their airspace after 15 months, while JNIM and FLA launched coordinated attacks on Anéfis and surrounding areas in April 2025. The control of Anéfis is critical for logistics between Kidal and Gao, and the situation has led to increased human rights abuses in the region. The Malian army faces significant challenges from these armed groups.

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The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets in Bushehr, Chabahar, and Abbas Port on July 13-14, 2023, marking the third consecutive night of strikes. Following this, the U.S. announced a maritime blockade against Iran, effective July 14. In retaliation, Iranian forces attacked U.S. bases in the Middle East, including the Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, and Jordan intercepted missiles launched from Iran.

The Sichuan ship has completed the installation of the electromagnetic catapult and arrestor wire, marking its transition to the deck integration phase for the 076 amphibious assault ship, which is designed to operate fixed-wing drones. This development was reported by the Chinese military on July 5, 2023, following the ship's first sea trial.

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The Sudanese Armed Forces destroyed two Chinese-made CH-95 drones operated by the Rapid Support Forces on July 13, 2023. One drone was shot down with an air-to-air missile, while the other was wrecked on the ground. This incident highlights the ongoing conflict in Sudan, where both sides increasingly rely on drones for military operations.

Matilda 1, a 73-meter stern landing vessel, successfully performed its first beach landing at Dundee Beach, Australia, on July 8. The U.S. Marine Corps utilized the ship, which can carry 550 tonnes of cargo and navigate challenging beach conditions. This marks a significant milestone in military logistics, as it is the first true stern landing vessel designed specifically for military operations.

BAE Systems was awarded a contract to supply the AN/ALQ-250 electronic warfare system for South Korea's F-15K jets as part of a $3.1 billion modernization effort running from 2024 to 2037. This upgrade aims to enhance the aircraft's capabilities against modern air defenses, with the first two modernized jets expected to be delivered by late 2028.

The U.S. Navy initiated a maritime blockade on Iranian ports and oil facilities on July 14, 2026, utilizing three Corsair unmanned surface vessels in military operations. The blockade permits neutral passage through the Strait of Hormuz, while the U.S. seeks to enforce maritime control without completely closing the strait. Iran is expected to respond with asymmetric tactics to counter the blockade.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Jul 14 2026Loading...

BAE Systems received a contract from Boeing to deliver AN/ALQ-250 Eagle Passive Active Warning Survivability Systems (EPAWSS) for the Republic of Korea Air Force's F-15K Slam Eagles. This advanced electronic warfare system will enhance situational awareness and self-defense capabilities for ROKAF pilots. The upgrade involves modifying a fleet of 59 aircraft to improve their ability to counter current and future threats.

The U.S. Army deployed the Typhon missile system and HIMARS to Kanoya Air Base in June 2026, enhancing military capabilities in Japan. This deployment signifies a strategic shift towards multi-layered deterrence in response to complex security environments. The Typhon system, capable of launching SM-6 and Tomahawk missiles, will operate alongside Japan's 12-type anti-ship missile, emphasizing collaborative defense efforts.

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Jordan intercepted and shot down four missiles that entered its airspace from Iran on the 14th. This action was carried out by the Jordanian Armed Forces as part of their defensive measures against aerial threats.

The 71st Group Army reconnaissance unit conducted a recent infiltration exercise in a mountain forest, utilizing drones and light assault vehicles to penetrate enemy lines. Teams overcame natural obstacles, including a river and a vertical cliff, to gather intelligence and execute coordinated strike operations. This exercise focused on enhancing reconnaissance capabilities and operational readiness.

The North Sea Maritime Bureau issued a navigation warning for the Gulf of Tonkin, prohibiting vessels from entering certain areas due to military training scheduled from July 14 to July 16, daily from 9 AM to 6 PM.

Air raid sirens were activated in Bahrain at 7:20 AM local time on the 14th, marking the third round of alerts since early morning. This indicates a military response to a potential threat in the area.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) attacked the U.S. Navy's Fifth Fleet in Bahrain on July 14, using missiles and drones. The strike successfully targeted fuel depots and destroyed radar and Patriot air defense systems, along with the control center for U.S. unmanned vessels. Iran's retaliation continues.

The People's Liberation Army Navy is expanding recruitment and training channels for naval aviation personnel as of July 13, 2026, to enhance its operational capabilities. This shift aims to transition from temporary personnel assignments to a more sustainable, industrialized approach. The Fujian aircraft carrier is set to operate advanced aircraft, necessitating a skilled workforce to ensure effective operations at sea.

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