Analysis & Reports

The Colombian Army received 11 ASV M1117 Guardian armored vehicles to enhance military operations in complex areas. This addition brings the total to 145 units deployed as part of a modernization program aimed at improving security and mobility. The vehicles are equipped with advanced armor and systems for varied operational environments, supporting ongoing security efforts in regions affected by armed groups and organized crime.

The 152nd Airlift Wing of the Nevada Air National Guard completed airlift missions to all seven continents in 2025, including training with special operations forces in Santiago, Chile. The unit also conducted operations in Antarctica for Operation Deep Freeze and responded to wildfires in Los Angeles shortly after returning from polar missions. Their activities reflect a high level of operational versatility and readiness across diverse missions.

The 152nd Airlift Wing of the Nevada Air National Guard completed airlift missions across all seven continents in 2025, including training with special operations forces in Santiago, Chile, and supporting Operation Deep Freeze in Antarctica. Following these missions, the unit rapidly transitioned to assist with wildfire responses in Los Angeles. The wing's operations reflect its versatility and capability to conduct diverse missions globally.

The Royal Navy's two Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales, are preparing for deployment while facing significant operational challenges in the North Atlantic. As of early 2026, only three of six Type 45 destroyers are operational, highlighting fleet strain. The finite F-35 inventory complicates sustained airpower, raising concerns about the carriers' effectiveness in local maritime security operations.

Allen-Vanguard secured multi-million dollar contracts for its EQUINOX NG and SCORPION 2 electronic countermeasure systems in South America on February 5, 2026. These systems are designed to protect personnel from radio-controlled improvised explosive devices and drone threats. The contract includes comprehensive support and training, enhancing the operational capabilities of the purchasing nation.

U.S. Navy Carrier Air Wing 8 conducted a coordinated formation flight over the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) in the Caribbean Sea on January 19, 2026, during an aerial change-of-command ceremony. The flight included seven F/A-18 Super Hornets, two MH-60 Seahawk helicopters, and one E-2D Hawkeye, showcasing military readiness and capability. This operation supports U.S. Southern Command's mission to disrupt illicit drug trafficking.

The U.S. Navy's Littoral Combat Ships (LCS) are actively deployed in the South China Sea and Caribbean for patrol and counter-drug operations. By 2024, crews have significantly improved maintenance capabilities, handling 70% of maintenance tasks. The USS Charleston completed a notable 26-month deployment in the western Pacific, while the fleet size has been reduced from 55 to 35 due to various operational challenges.

USS Preble neutralized four uncrewed aerial vehicles using the HELIOS laser during a counter-UAS exercise at sea last year, with the test publicly disclosed on May 21, 2020. The HELIOS system, integrated into the Aegis Combat System, represents a significant advancement in naval air defense capabilities, allowing for multi-target engagement. This test highlights the U.S. Navy's ongoing development of directed energy weapons as a supplement to traditional missile systems.

USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) is conducting routine operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations as of February 24, 2024. The carrier, part of Carrier Strike Group Nine, is currently flying in formation with a B-52 Stratofortress and aircraft from Carrier Air Wing 11. The USS Theodore Roosevelt has a notable operational history, including participation in major conflicts and recent deployments in the Pacific.

The USS Zumwalt (DDG 1000) returned to sea trials in the Pacific Ocean after a significant modernization that replaced its Advanced Gun Systems with missile tubes for the Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic weapon. This redesign shifts the ship's role from near-shore fire support to a long-range strike platform. The Zumwalt-class has been reduced to three ships due to cost overruns and design challenges.

The USS Missouri (BB-63) was commissioned in 1944 and played a significant role in World War II, including the Japanese surrender ceremony. It later served in the Korean War and the Persian Gulf War, showcasing its adaptability with modern weaponry. Decommissioned in 1992, it now serves as a memorial at Pearl Harbor, representing American naval power and engineering excellence.

A heavy Russian cargo plane, the Ilyushin Il-76, arrived at the San Antonio de los Baños Air Base in Cuba late Sunday evening. The aircraft, operated by Aviacon Zitotrans, has a history of transporting military equipment, including air defense systems to Venezuela. This arrival occurs amid heightened geopolitical tensions and U.S. sanctions against Cuba and its military suppliers.

The U.S. and Israel are intensifying hybrid warfare against Iran and Venezuela, employing tactics such as military strikes, economic sanctions, and cyber warfare. Recent actions include U.S. airstrikes and support for destabilization efforts in these countries. The situation poses risks of escalating into a larger regional conflict, particularly concerning Iran.

The U.S. Air Force conducted Operation Absolute Resolve on January 3 to capture Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, utilizing 150 aircraft from approximately 20 bases. Lockheed Martin's CEO confirmed the involvement of RQ-170 Sentinel drones, F-35 and F-22 fighter jets, and Sikorsky Black Hawk helicopters. This operation marks a significant use of the RQ-170, which has not been publicly acknowledged in military operations for years.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking contractors to provide training for foreign pilots at bases in the continental United States. This initiative is part of the Foreign Military Sales program and includes instruction in various combat and non-combat missions. The training will cover a wide range of aircraft and will be tailored to the specific operational requirements of partner nations. The deadline for contractor proposals is March 4.

The U.S. Air Force is seeking contractors to train foreign pilots at bases in the continental United States. This initiative is part of the Foreign Military Sales program, which trains over 9,000 students annually from 142 nations. The training will cover various missions and aircraft types, with a focus on comprehensive curriculum development. The deadline for contractor proposals is March 4.

The Army redesignated a brigade as the Army Security Cooperation Group - South to conduct jungle warfare training in Panama. This unit will oversee the Jungle Operations Training Course, which will award Jungle tabs for the first time in February 2023. The course, lasting 18 days, includes survival training in challenging conditions. This change reflects the Army's strategic shift towards enhancing security cooperation in the Western Hemisphere.

The U.S. military operation recently captured Venezuelan President Maduro in Venezuela, but pro-government forces continue to control Caracas. The National Defense Strategy reveals that while the U.S. can project military power, it struggles to maintain a sustained presence to achieve strategic outcomes. This situation raises concerns about the ability of allies like Europe and South Korea to assume primary defense responsibilities amid growing threats.

The U.S. military operation recently captured Venezuelan President Maduro in Venezuela, but pro-government forces continue to control Caracas. The National Defense Strategy reveals that while the U.S. can project military power, it struggles to maintain a sustained presence for strategic outcomes. This situation highlights vulnerabilities in NATO and South Korea's defense capabilities amid shifting U.S. priorities.

The Army Security Cooperation Group – South has been established to train U.S. troops in jungle warfare at Aeronaval Base Cristóbal Colón, Panama, starting in February. This unit was formerly the 1st Security Forces Assistance Brigade, which has now shifted its focus from advising Afghan forces to conducting jungle operations training. The course will include collaboration with Panamanian troops and will award soldiers the Army's jungle tab upon completion.