Analysis & Reports

The A-10 Warthog is currently engaged in hunting Iranian mines and defending against fast-attack boats in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf. This aircraft supports U.S. Navy operations by providing low-cost, high-impact capabilities against asymmetrical threats. Despite its critical role, the Air Force intends to retire the A-10 fleet by 2029, although its operational importance remains high.

The U.S. Navy faces evolving threats in naval combat, particularly in the South China Sea and Yemen, where they encounter advanced weaponry and tactics from adversaries like China. Experts warn that the distinction between combat and non-combat missions is increasingly unclear, with potential future conflicts resembling those of World War II. The Navy must adapt to new technologies and strategies as it prepares for possible peer-on-peer engagements.

On October 11, the Israel Defense Forces established the 38th Division at a military base. The Chief of Staff emphasized the division's importance in modern warfare and announced the expansion of standing forces to alleviate pressure on reserves. This restructuring is part of significant reforms initiated after the October 7 events.

The U.S. Navy is reshuffling its traditional carrier strike group model to create tailored forces for greater operational flexibility. This initiative, outlined in the new 'Fighting Instructions' guidance, aims to provide combatant commanders with customizable formation options. The Navy plans to integrate unmanned systems into its strategy, optimizing asset deployment beyond conventional cycles. Key locations involved include the Red Sea and the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, with a focus on missions such as mine clearance in strategic chokepoints.

Israeli Defense Forces are planning a new offensive to disarm Hamas in the Gaza Strip as of February 10, 2023. The Southern Command is preparing operational plans, but the implementation remains uncertain. Hamas leaders have stated they will not disarm and reject external control over Gaza, indicating potential for intensified conflict if hostilities resume.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) announced the formation of a new combat division, the 38th Division, on October 10. This marks the first establishment of a new combat division in decades. The division will integrate various units from the ground forces training system and is expected to achieve ground combat capability by 2027.

The USS Santa Barbara conducted a live-fire training exercise in the Persian Gulf, supported by an A-10 Thunderbolt II for aerial coordination. This operation highlights the ongoing military presence in the region, particularly near the strategically important Strait of Hormuz, amid rising tensions with Iran. The Littoral Combat Ships are being repurposed for mine hunting as the U.S. military continues to adapt its aging equipment for current operational needs.

Iran maintains one of the largest standing armed forces in the Middle East, with approximately 610,000 active personnel, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. The country has a diverse missile arsenal and has shifted its military strategy towards offensive operations. Iran's defense budget for 2024 is estimated at $7.9 billion, indicating ongoing military readiness despite economic challenges.

Since mid-January 2026, over 80 U.S. military transport flights have deployed air defense systems, including Patriot and THAAD batteries, to bases in Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Qatar. This deployment is part of preparations for potential military action against Iran, with F-35A fighters also being sent to the region. Despite significant investments in air defense by Gulf states, the U.S. continues to provide direct military support, highlighting limitations in local capabilities.

Ahmed Al-RashidTue Feb 10 2026Loading...

On May 25, 2006, Capt. Doug Dicenzo and gunner Robert Blair were killed by an IED while on patrol in Baghdad, Iraq. The author, who declined to join the patrol, reflects on the guilt and trauma stemming from this decision. The incident underscores the severe risks posed by roadside bombs during the sectarian conflict in Iraq.

Israeli military conducted raids and demolitions across multiple locations in the West Bank on September 9, resulting in multiple injuries and the detention of over 20 Palestinians, including women and children. The Israel Defense Forces confirmed the operation, which involved a joint effort with the Israeli Security Agency.

Israeli Defense Forces killed 4 armed personnel in Rafah, Gaza Strip, on September 9. The personnel emerged from a tunnel and opened fire on the Israeli forces, who reported no injuries among their soldiers. This incident is considered a violation of the ceasefire agreement, and the Israeli military stated they would continue operations in the area to identify and eliminate armed personnel in the tunnels.

On February 8, the Israeli government approved measures to strengthen its control over the West Bank, leading to increased violence and displacement of Palestinians. The Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned these actions as war crimes, while Hamas accused Israel of attempting to eliminate Palestinian existence. Reports indicate ongoing assaults by Israeli forces and settlers, resulting in injuries and forced displacements of Palestinian residents.

U.S. Navy sailors aboard USS Santa Barbara (LCS 32) participated in a live-fire maritime gunnery exercise in the Arabian Gulf last week, supported by U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft. The exercise, named Killer Tomato, focused on improving surface gunnery proficiency and joint air-maritime integration. A-10s were utilized for their effectiveness in close air support, allowing for enhanced coordination between naval and air forces.

A suspect with dual Russian-Ukrainian citizenship was arrested in the UAE following the attack on Russian General Vladimir Alekseyev in Moscow on February 6, 2023. Two other suspects have been charged, while a female suspect has fled to Ukraine and is wanted internationally. The incident is characterized as a response from Ukrainian terrorists against the ongoing conflict negotiations.

The 7th UAE Special Police Challenge began on February 7 in Dubai, featuring 109 teams from 48 countries, including 10 women's teams. The Chinese women's special police teams, competing for the first time, achieved notable success, with the Sichuan Women's Special Police Team ranking first among all women's teams. The event focused on tactical operations and teamwork under pressure.

The Iranian Air Force is currently at the highest state of readiness, prepared to respond decisively to any threats or aggression. This declaration was made by Major General Mousavi on February 7, emphasizing the Air Force's role in deterrence and defense. Iran asserts it will protect its national security and territorial integrity, warning that any enemy actions could result in severe consequences.

The August 1st Aerobatics Team of the Chinese Air Force showcased the J-10C fighter jet at international air shows in Malaysia, Dubai, Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Thailand in 2023. The J-10C, a third-generation multi-role fighter, features advanced avionics and weapon systems, enhancing its operational capabilities. This transition from the J-10B to the J-10C reflects China's rapid advancements in military aviation.

A fire occurred in a carpentry workshop at a military camp in Tehran on February 6, caused by electrical faults. The Iranian military reported that the fire has been controlled and there are no casualties.

Sailors aboard the USS Arleigh Burke were awarded the Armed Forces Service Medal for their role in ballistic missile defense operations during the '12-Day War' between Iran and Israel from June 12 to June 24, 2025. Israel conducted Operation Rising Lion targeting Iranian nuclear facilities, prompting Iran to launch nearly 900 ballistic missiles at Israel. Subsequently, the U.S. executed Operation Midnight Hammer, deploying 125 aircraft and precision weapons against Iranian targets.