Analysis & Reports

Brazil announced the return of 17 M60A3 tanks to operational service in January 2025, citing modernization delays. Taiwan is upgrading 40 of its M60A3 tanks, while Egypt and Turkey continue to enhance their M60 fleets. The M60A3 remains relevant due to its adaptability and ongoing upgrades, showcasing its effectiveness in various operational contexts.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) requires significant repairs following a lengthy deployment to Venezuela and the Middle East, during which it supported critical military operations. The carrier faced plumbing issues and a fire that resulted in smoke inhalation treatment for 200 sailors. Despite these challenges, its advanced systems performed effectively, indicating a potential for future operational success.

Mexico selected the Canadian-made Roshel Senator MRAP armored vehicle for its armed forces and federal police after successful trials at the end of last year. The decision reflects the need for protected mobility platforms to confront threats from organized criminal groups. The Senator MRAP, built on a Ford F-550 chassis, is designed for high-risk environments and can be adapted for various missions.

Brazil officially unveiled its first domestically produced supersonic fighter jet, the F-39E Gripen, in São Paulo on March 25, 2023. This event marks a significant step in enhancing Brazil's defense technology autonomy, stemming from a $4 billion agreement with Sweden's Saab Group. The deal includes the acquisition of 36 aircraft and technology transfer to the Brazilian Air Force.

Caracal USA was awarded a government contract in March 2026 to supply CAR814 A2 Patrol rifles to various agencies in Belize. The rifles, designed for military and law enforcement use, are chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO and meet NATO standards. The agreement involves multiple government agencies and reflects ongoing cooperation in the region.

On March 25, 2025, the U.S. military conducted an airstrike on a vessel in the Caribbean Sea, resulting in the deaths of four individuals identified as drug traffickers. This operation was ordered by U.S. Southern Command as part of ongoing military actions against vessels linked to recognized terrorist organizations.

On June 20, 1898, the USS Charleston bombarded the fort at Santa Cruz, Guam, mistaking the initial warning shots for a salute. Spanish authorities, unaware of the war declaration, were shocked to learn of their status as prisoners of war. Governor Juan Marina Vega eventually surrendered the Spanish garrison to the Americans, leading to Guam's formal cession to the U.S. in the Treaty of Paris.

On 25 March, the Brazilian Air Force unveiled the first Gripen E fighter aircraft produced in Brazil at Embraer’s facility in Gavião Peixoto. The event was attended by Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and Swedish officials, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration between Brazil and Sweden. The Gripen E is intended for various military roles and is part of a contract for 36 aircraft.

The first domestically assembled supersonic fighter jet, the F-39E 'Gripen', was unveiled in Gavião Peixoto, São Paulo, on March 25, 2023. The Brazilian Air Force has begun operational deployment of the aircraft, which features advanced capabilities including air-to-air refueling and multi-role operations. It is set to replace older models such as the F-5 and AMX.

Colombian President Petro announced three days of national mourning starting March 24, 2023, for over 69 military and police personnel who died in a plane crash in Leguizamo, Putumayo. The C-130 Hercules transport aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff, carrying over 120 people. Public institutions and military sites will lower flags and conduct honor ceremonies in remembrance of the victims.

USS Nimitz is deploying to the U.S. Southern Command area for maritime exercises with South American partner nations in 2026. The carrier, along with USS Gridley, will conduct operations at sea and enhance interoperability with partner forces. Scheduled port visits include Brazil, Chile, Panama, and Jamaica.

A Colombian military aircraft crashed in Putumayo, resulting in 66 fatalities, including 58 military personnel, 6 from the aerospace force, and 2 police officers. The incident also left 57 injured and 4 missing. The aircraft was carrying 128 individuals at the time of the crash.

A Colombian Air Force transport aircraft crashed in Putumayo province on March 23, 2023, resulting in 34 fatalities. The governor of Putumayo confirmed the incident to local media.

A military transport aircraft operated by the Colombian Armed Forces crashed in Putumayo on March 23, 2023, carrying 125 individuals. The crash involved 114 military personnel and 11 crew members, with 48 injured individuals successfully rescued so far.

The SR-71 Blackbird operated from January 1966 until its retirement in 1998, successfully conducting high-speed reconnaissance missions. It was designed to evade enemy missiles, achieving this feat by outrunning threats, as it was shot at 4,000 times without being hit. The aircraft's advanced design and capabilities made it a critical asset for the U.S. Air Force during the Cold War, gathering intelligence on various geopolitical hotspots.

A naval task force from the Eastern Theater Command conducted realistic training exercises in a sea area, focusing on naval gunfire, resupply operations, and air defense. The exercises involved multiple vessels, including frigates and missile boats, and included the deployment of drones for reconnaissance. Coastal missile units were also activated to enhance combat readiness.

The U.S. deployed 200 troops and several MQ-9 Reaper drones to Northeast Nigeria in January 2026 to combat jihadist threats from ISIS and al-Qaeda affiliates. This deployment marks a strategic shift in U.S. military presence in West Africa, focusing on intelligence support and training for Nigerian forces. The operation is part of a broader partnership with Nigeria amid escalating violence in the Sahel region.

Marie DuboisSun Mar 22 2026Loading...

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is undergoing an extended deployment from June 2025 to May 2026, facing significant mechanical wear and psychological strain due to high operational demands. The carrier has been involved in operations against Iran after initially supporting missions in Venezuela. A fire incident in March 2026 has compounded the challenges, leading to expectations of a lengthy maintenance period upon its return.

Leonardo acquired Iveco Defence Vehicles for €1.7 billion ($1.9 billion) to enhance its defense capabilities. This acquisition is part of Leonardo's strategy to strengthen its position as a leading Original Equipment Manufacturer in the land defense sector. The deal is expected to leverage the complementary strengths of both companies in providing integrated defense solutions across various platforms.

The Republic of Korea Air Force's first Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft completed its maiden flight in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The aircraft will undergo testing and integration to meet operational needs, confirming its progression towards service entry. Designed for diverse missions, it can carry up to 26 tons and operate from unpaved runways, enhancing its flexibility in various environments.