Analysis & Reports

The Egyptian Air Force is evaluating options for acquiring up to 36 new trainer aircraft to replace its aging fleet of Alphajets. Currently, the EAF has not made a decision on the procurement, as budget considerations are being reassessed. Potential contenders for the contract include Leonardo, KAI, and CATIC, with various aircraft models proposed for both basic and advanced training roles.

Mechanical and Chemical Industry Corporation (MKE) established its first company in Cairo, Egypt, named Zafer, to engage in joint military production. This initiative aims to integrate Egypt's capabilities with MKE's advanced military systems, including the Tolga short air defense system. The move reflects MKE's strategy to expand its operations in Africa and the Gulf region amid rising demand for military equipment.

Mutinous soldiers attacked a strategic airbase in Niamey on the night of August 29-30, 2026, but were repelled by forces loyal to General Abdourahamane Tiani. The Nigerien government accused France of orchestrating the mutiny, a claim that France denied. Russian personnel reportedly assisted in regaining control of the base, indicating a shift in military alliances.

Marie DuboisWed Sep 09 2026Loading...

China operates around 21 Type 039 Yuan-class submarines, which are designed for undersea warfare and can remain submerged for extended periods. These submarines are equipped with advanced weaponry, including Yu-6 torpedoes and YJ-18 missiles, and are strategically positioned in chokepoints in the East and South China Seas. The Yuan-class submarines represent a significant enhancement in China's naval capabilities, allowing for effective patrolling and ambush tactics against enemy vessels.

China is studying the vulnerabilities of the proposed U.S. Navy Trump-class battleship, which is set to be built from 2028 to 2056. The People's Liberation Army (PLA) assesses that concentrating combat power in a single hull presents significant risks, especially in the Western Pacific, where it would face numerous threats. The report indicates that the U.S. Navy's strategy may conflict with its own Distributed Maritime Operations concept, potentially impacting naval readiness.

Marcus ChenTue Sep 08 2026Loading...

U.S. and Russian military aircraft will appear together at the El Alamein International Airshow on September 8, 2026, showcasing their capabilities. The U.S. Air Force is sending various aircraft, including C-130 and F-16 models, while Russia will display its Su-57E stealth fighter. This event emphasizes the longstanding defense relationship between the U.S. and Egypt, as well as Egypt's balancing act in maintaining ties with both nations.

The NATO Support and Procurement Agency (NSPA) has established the Innovation and Readiness Support Partnership (IRSP) with 14 nations to enhance military readiness and innovation. This initiative reflects a commitment to multinational defense cooperation in Europe.

Russia's state arms exporter, Rosoboronexport, announced new export contracts for the Su-57E stealth fighter, with deliveries expected to begin in 2026. The Su-57E will be showcased at the El Alamein International Airshow in Egypt from September 8 to 10, 2024, alongside two new weapons systems. The CEO of Rosoboronexport claimed increased global interest in Russian aircraft due to their combat performance, despite a lack of specific combat data to support this assertion.

L3Harris Technologies completed the first 35 units of the Viper Shield electronic warfare system for F-16 fighter jets, marking the start of full production. Eight allied nations, including Bahrain, Bulgaria, and Poland, have ordered a total of 233 units. The system is designed to protect F-16s from radar-guided missiles and can be mounted inside the aircraft or carried as an external pod. Peru has also selected the system for its new F-16 Block 70 jets.

The August 1st Air Demonstration Team of the Chinese Air Force has participated in numerous international airshows from 2013 to 2026, including events in Moscow, Malaysia, and the UAE. The team showcased advanced aircraft like the Y-20 and J-10C, demonstrating China's growing military capabilities and fostering international military relations. This participation reflects China's strategic intent to enhance its global military presence and share technological advancements.

The Chinese Air Force is sending multiple aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters, to participate in the second Egypt Airshow from September 8-10, 2024, at Alamein, Egypt. This event aims to enhance military cooperation and trust between China and Egypt, marking the second participation of Chinese military aircraft in this airshow. The diverse aircraft lineup reflects China's growing military capabilities and commitment to international military exchanges.

The Chinese Air Force is sending multiple types of military aircraft, including fighter jets and helicopters, to participate in the second Egypt Airshow at Alamein International Airport from September 8 to 10. This marks the second time China has sent military aircraft to this event, aimed at strengthening military cooperation and friendly relations between the two nations.

The Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) is expanding its influence over gold mining operations in the Sahel, particularly in Burkina Faso, and is threatening neighboring countries like Ghana and Senegal. In 2026, JNIM is not only controlling mining areas but also extracting resources from local miners, establishing a system of taxation and control. This evolving situation poses significant risks to regional security as jihadist groups adapt their strategies to maintain their presence and influence.

Marie DuboisSat Sep 05 2026Loading...

China is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which has a range of 10,000 kilometers and can carry nuclear weapons. However, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) relies on existing missile systems, such as the DF-26, to target US military bases in the Western Pacific. The H-20 is seen as a redundant capability, and China faces technical challenges in its development.

President Trump stated that the U.S. possesses virtually unlimited amounts of ammunition and will soon resume munitions sales to allies. He criticized reports of depleted stockpiles amid ongoing military operations in Iran. Trump also highlighted the substantial military aid provided to Ukraine and NATO, asserting that Europe would repay the U.S. for this support. The statements were made in a Truth Social post on September 3, 2025.

The U.S. Air Force is planning to purchase 187 F-47s to enhance air superiority in potential conflict with the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF), which has at least 300 J-20s. The report emphasizes the need for protecting high-value airborne assets (HVAA) and suggests that Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCAs) could play a crucial role in this strategy. Failure to adapt could result in a loss of air superiority for the U.S. in the Western Pacific.

Rostec is marketing the Bizon counter-drone system to Egypt, designed to engage small aerial targets with 7.62mm PKT machine guns. The system operates independently using its own radar and can integrate with external detection assets. This follows Egypt's previous acquisition of Russian counter-drone technology, indicating ongoing military cooperation between the two nations.

The U.S. Navy is exploring foreign frigate designs from Japan, South Korea, and Turkey due to delays in domestic shipbuilding. The Constellation-class frigate program has encountered significant cost overruns and delivery delays, prompting the Navy to seek faster solutions. With China's shipbuilding capabilities expanding rapidly, the U.S. faces a pressing need for effective escort vessels in the Western Pacific.

Marcus ChenWed Sep 02 2026Loading...

On September 1, 2026, a national security conference took place in Mogadishu, focusing on the transition from AUSSOM and the coordination of security efforts. Somali intelligence reported the killing of a significant Al-Shabaab intelligence leader in Jilib, highlighting ongoing military operations. The conference addressed critical issues such as political oversight and funding for security institutions, indicating the fragile state of security in Somalia as the country prepares to take on more responsibilities.

Marie DuboisWed Sep 02 2026Loading...

Governor Babagana Zulum suspended local village chiefs in Mallam-Fatori, Borno, highlighting the fragility of civil return in 2026. He inspected damaged infrastructure and emphasized the need for local governance alongside military presence to ensure stability. The 68th Battalion remains active in the area, but the lack of local leadership raises security concerns as displaced populations begin to return.

Marie DuboisTue Sep 01 2026Loading...