Analysis & Reports

On July 11, the Chinese Navy and Russian Navy concluded the 'Maritime Joint-2026' naval exercise near Qingdao, showcasing their submarines together for the first time. After the exercise, both navies proceeded to conduct a joint maritime patrol in the Pacific Ocean.

An explosion occurred in Pakdasht, Tehran Province on July 11, caused by the Iranian Armed Forces destroying unexploded ordnance and ammunition. The operation was planned and supervised, ensuring no threat to civilian safety.

Ukrainian strikes on Russian oil refineries in July 2026 have reduced Russian gasoline production to 65% of domestic demand, causing significant fuel shortages. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have targeted 22 refineries, leading to operational disruptions and prompting Russian authorities to impose restrictions on fuel sales. This situation reflects a strategic shift in Ukraine's approach, aiming to systematically impact Russia's war economy.

Dmitri VolkovSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force showcased the DF-17 missile in a video on July 8, 2026, emphasizing its operational capabilities. The DF-17, with a range of 1800 to 2500 kilometers, is designed to evade traditional missile defense systems and can target key military nodes in the first island chain. This display is interpreted as a deterrent response to recent military exercises by the U.S. and its allies in the region.

Li MinghuiSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

Kuwait is purchasing eight missile boats equipped with the Multi Ammunition Softkill System (MASS) from Rheinmetall, with delivery scheduled from mid-2026 to mid-2029. This contract, valued in the low tens of millions of euros, aims to enhance the defensive capabilities of the Kuwait Naval Forces against modern threats. The procurement indicates a strategic shift towards improving maritime security in the Gulf region.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

The U.S. military conducted an airstrike on Shajareh Tayebeh School in Minab, Iran, on February 28, 2025, resulting in nearly 200 casualties, including 168 children and 14 teachers. The attack was based on outdated intelligence, which had not been properly verified, leading to significant civilian loss. This incident marked one of the most severe civilian casualties in recent U.S. military operations against Iran.

From June 20 to June 30, 2026, approximately 9700 personnel from the U.S. Marine Corps and Japan Self-Defense Forces conducted a joint military exercise named Resolute Dragon 26 in the Southwest Islands and Kyushu. The exercise focused on enhancing defense capabilities and control of maritime terrain, involving live-fire training and logistical operations. This marks a significant step in U.S.-Japan military cooperation in the region.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

China Coast Guard showcased eight law enforcement vessels during a public open day in Tianjin, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and Haikou. The Lingshan ship, a new type of law enforcement vessel, demonstrated its capabilities for maritime rights protection. The event aimed to educate citizens about maritime law enforcement and enhance awareness of ocean rights protection.

China and Russia conducted a joint air defense exercise in the Yellow Sea, involving multiple naval vessels from both nations. The exercise featured coordinated responses to simulated aerial threats, utilizing advanced radar and missile systems. This event aimed to strengthen military cooperation and operational capabilities between the Chinese Navy and Russian Navy.

People's Liberation Army personnel conducted rescue operations in Guigang, Guangxi on July 10 in response to severe flooding. They provided medical assistance to a man who fainted due to stress from the disaster and helped evacuate families trapped in their homes. Local citizens supported the military by delivering food and water to the rescue teams.

On July 9, 2026, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's 9th Air Wing and the U.S. Air Force conducted tactical training with two F-15s and two F-22s over the East China Sea near Okinawa. This exercise showcased their readiness for air defense operations amid rising tensions in the region, particularly concerning Chinese military activities. The training is also connected to preparations for the transition to F-15EX aircraft at Kadena Air Base.

Tanaka TakashiSat Jul 11 2026Loading...

The Yancheng Maritime Safety Administration announced live-fire exercises in the South Yellow Sea from July 16 to July 17, prohibiting vessels from entering the area during the exercises, which will take place daily from 9:00 to 12:00 and 15:00 to 18:00.

Military academy students in China participate in a structured daily routine that includes physical training, classroom instruction, and self-study. They engage in various activities designed to enhance their military skills and political awareness, ensuring they are well-prepared for future service. The routine emphasizes discipline and commitment to military values.

Napoleon's Grande Armée, consisting of 600,000 men, invaded Russia in June 1812 but faced catastrophic starvation due to inadequate supply lines. The misattributed quote 'An army marches on its stomach' highlights the critical logistical failures during this campaign, leading to significant losses before any major battles occurred. The challenges of feeding troops prompted innovations in food preservation, notably the development of canning by Nicolas Appert.

The Russian Armed Forces deployed T-72B3A tanks equipped with the Arena-M Active Protection System in 2023. Training for tank crews is currently taking place in the Dnepropetrovsk region. The Arena-M APS aims to enhance protection against drones and other threats, although its effectiveness in real combat remains to be seen.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) conducted submarine-launched missile tests in the deep sea and held joint exercises at sea this week. Additionally, new artillery was fired for the first time in the desert, showcasing the military's capabilities and readiness.

Russian forces conducted intensive strikes on Ukrainian military and energy facilities on October 10, while also intercepting 144 Ukrainian drones over various regions, including the Black Sea. Concurrently, Ukrainian forces targeted multiple sites within Russia and Russian-controlled areas, including oil refineries and 18 ships. Russian troops continue to control 7 settlements and are engaged in demining operations.

Capt. Nathanial Welch of the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor during a combat mission against Houthi militants in Yemen on April 29, 2025. He successfully evaded enemy missiles while protecting coalition aircraft during a joint American and British operation. The squadron was deployed from Prince Sultan Air Base in Saudi Arabia as part of a wider U.S. effort targeting Houthi command and attack sites.

Capt. Nathanial Welch of the 480th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron was awarded the Distinguished Flying Cross for his valor during a mission in Yemen on April 29, 2025. He flew an F-16 into heavily defended airspace, evading missiles while protecting coalition aircraft. This operation was part of a joint U.S. and British effort against Houthi forces.

On July 9, 2023, Rostec announced the delivery of 2 to 4 new Su-34 and Su-30SM2 combat jets to the Russian military. This delivery comes amid significant losses, with over 60 documented losses of these aircraft types since 2022. The new jets are intended to replace those lost in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, and the delivery was notably accepted by naval aviation crews rather than the Aerospace Forces.