Analysis & Reports

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer announced the deployment of a carrier strike group led by HMS Prince of Wales to the North Atlantic and Arctic regions in 2023. This action aims to deter Russia and protect critical underwater infrastructure, as the UK faces an increased threat from Russian naval activity. The deployment includes Royal Navy warships, F-35 aircraft, and helicopters, demonstrating the UK's commitment to European and Atlantic security.

China has modernized its military capabilities to counter U.S. aircraft carriers, focusing on anti-ship ballistic missiles and enhanced surveillance systems. This modernization aims to compel U.S. carriers to operate at greater distances from conflict zones, thereby reducing their operational effectiveness. The People's Liberation Army has learned from past crises, particularly the 1995-1996 Taiwan Strait Crisis, and has institutionalized these lessons in its military planning.

China is enhancing its military capabilities, focusing on advanced anti-ship missiles and expanding its submarine fleet to counter U.S. aircraft carriers in the Pacific. The People’s Liberation Army Navy is developing systems like the DF-21D and DF-26B missiles, which pose a significant threat to U.S. naval forces. As of November 28, 2023, China operates approximately 50 submarines, with plans to increase this number to 65 by 2030.

The French Navy's Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier is actively conducting operations in the Eastern Mediterranean and Pacific, showcasing interoperability with U.S. Navy forces. This nuclear-powered carrier, weighing 42,000 tons, is equipped with advanced aircraft including Rafale M fighters and various missile systems. Its recent deployments highlight France's commitment to maintaining naval presence and cooperation with allied forces.

The U.S. Navy is implementing a new strategy to enhance flexibility in deployments by utilizing smaller, advanced vessels instead of large aircraft carriers. This shift, articulated by Admiral Daryl Caudle, aims to address operational challenges in regions like the Caribbean and Venezuela. The Navy has recently deployed 11 ships in South America, marking a significant change from previous practices. Caudle advocates for tailored deployment solutions and increased reliance on drones and robotic systems for mission effectiveness.

The U.S. is deploying the Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier to the Gulf within three weeks as part of preparations for extended military operations against Iran. This deployment will complement the existing Abraham Lincoln carrier in the region, enhancing U.S. military capabilities. U.S. officials indicate that the operations will target Iranian state and security facilities, anticipating a significant response from Iran.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Feb 15 2026Loading...

USS Gerald R. Ford is being deployed to the Middle East, joining USS Abraham Lincoln and other U.S. forces as part of a military buildup. The carrier, currently in the Caribbean, will bring its air wing, including F/A-18 and E/A-18G aircraft. This deployment comes amid ongoing tensions with Iran, with the U.S. negotiating with Iranian officials in Geneva.

Godfrey Wade, a U.S. Army veteran, was deported to Jamaica in September 2025 after being detained by ICE for five months. His family claims he arrived lawfully in 1975 and served honorably in the Army. U.S. Rep. David Scott intervened to halt the deportation, citing Wade's service and due process rights, but DHS proceeded with the deportation. A GoFundMe campaign has been launched to support Wade's family.

The USS Jimmy Carter (SSN-23), a modified Seawolf-class submarine, is actively conducting covert missions in the Pacific Ocean. Commissioned in 2005, it features advanced capabilities for intelligence gathering and special operations, including a unique multi-mission platform. The submarine recently completed major maintenance and modernization, enhancing its operational effectiveness.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) is being deployed to the Mediterranean from the Caribbean amid rising tensions with Iran and ongoing nuclear talks. This deployment follows the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) already in the region, positioning two carrier strike groups to enhance U.S. military presence and leverage in negotiations. The Ford's air wing includes advanced aircraft such as F-35C stealth fighters and F/A-18E/F Super Hornets, providing significant operational capabilities.

UK Prime Minister Starmer announced the deployment of an aircraft carrier strike group to the North Atlantic and High North region in 2023.

A U.S. Marine Corps sergeant fell from the USS Iwo Jima in the Caribbean Sea on February 7 and was later declared dead after a search operation. On February 11, two U.S. Navy vessels collided during a refueling operation, injuring two sailors. These incidents are part of a larger U.S. military deployment in the region to support anti-drug operations.

On February 13, U.S. Southern Command conducted a lethal strike against a drug trafficking vessel in the Caribbean Sea, resulting in the deaths of three drug traffickers. This operation is part of a broader campaign against drug trafficking in the region, which has seen multiple strikes since September 2022. No U.S. personnel were injured during the operation.

The SR-71 Blackbird conducted reconnaissance missions from bases like Kadena Air Base during the late 1960s, observing activities in North Vietnam and Laos. It set numerous speed and altitude records, including a Mach 3.3 flight and an altitude of 85,068.997 feet. The program was terminated in 1989 due to rising costs and advancements in satellite technology, although NASA continued to operate the aircraft for research until 1999.

U.S. aircraft carriers are preparing for potential operations in a Taiwan contingency, adjusting tactics to counter China's advanced A2/AD network. They will likely operate further east of Taiwan to mitigate missile threats, emphasizing long-range capabilities and coordination with allied forces. Despite increased risks, carriers remain relevant as symbols of U.S. commitment and military power in the region.

U.S. Coast Guard forces boarded and seized the oil tanker Skipper in international waters near Venezuela on December 10, detaining approximately 30 sailors. The operation was prompted by the vessel's misreporting of geolocation data and its status as a U.S.-sanctioned ship. China condemned the seizure as unlawful, claiming it violated international law.

U.S. personnel were wounded during a raid to capture Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro in Caracas. The operation, named Absolute Resolve, involved over 200 forces and 150 aircraft. President Trump confirmed that helicopter pilots sustained injuries from enemy fire, but threats were neutralized by snipers. One soldier involved in the operation is set to receive the Medal of Honor.

U.S. Air Force helicopters executed a rescue mission 400 miles off the coast of Mexico on February 5, 2026, involving the stabilization of a crewman from the Maran Gas Olympias. The operation required coordination among multiple squadrons and included mid-flight refueling. Following the mission, the crews landed in Cabo San Lucas for the night before returning to Arizona.

USS Iwo Jima is set to undergo a $204.2 million modernization overhaul at Norfolk Naval Shipyard starting in June 2026. This maintenance follows its involvement in Operation Southern Spear, where it played a crucial role in capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The overhaul will further strain the U.S. Navy's amphibious fleet, which is already limited after the decommissioning of the USS Bonhomme Richard.

On June 12, 1944, soldiers at Camp Forest in Tennessee exchanged letters with loved ones, providing emotional support during World War II. Joseph Brenner, part of the U.S. Army’s 740th Field Artillery Battery, received letters from his wife, Norma, which included a kiss mark. The Veterans History Project highlights the importance of these letters in maintaining morale among troops, with many soldiers, including Pfc. Sumner Grant and Ralph Samuel Jaffe, sharing their experiences through correspondence.