Analysis & Reports

Tactical Photonics introduced a new laser targeting payload for drones in Vilnius, Lithuania, on June 17, 2026. This payload, weighing under 2 kg, offers precision targeting beyond 3 km without relying on GPS, addressing issues caused by Russian GPS jamming. Production is planned to reach 600 units annually from 2027, enhancing European military capabilities.

Russian drones attacked three commercial ships in the Black Sea from June 21 to 22, resulting in the death of one Egyptian crew member. The Ukrainian Navy reported that a Panama-flagged cargo ship caught fire, while two other vessels sustained damage but no casualties occurred. Eight crew members were successfully rescued and evacuated.

Ukraine struck the Sborka plant in Voronezh in March 2026, damaging a key facility in Russia's missile supply chain. This plant supplies critical components for the Kh-101 cruise missile, Iskander-K missile, and Pantsir-S1 air defense system. The operation highlights Ukraine's strategy of targeting specific military production nodes to degrade Russian capabilities.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier conducted extensive military training exercises in the South China Sea and Western Pacific over a period of 40 days. The exercises included air defense, maritime strikes, and comprehensive rescue operations, involving multiple naval vessels and aircraft. This training is aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the carrier.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group and Anhui amphibious assault ship group conducted joint training exercises in the South China Sea. This mixed fleet aims to enhance their operational capabilities for various combat tasks, despite the complexities of coordination required. The exercises indicate a development in the navy's ability to control islands and land points in different maritime areas.

In May 2026, Nigeria experienced 842 deaths and 279 kidnappings across 156 violent incidents, marking a significant increase in violence compared to the previous year. Armed groups, including Boko Haram and ISWAP, are actively involved in these incidents, indicating a dangerous escalation in insecurity across the country. The data suggests a shift in the nature of violence, with multiple conflict zones becoming interconnected.

Marie DuboisMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

Chinese naval vessels Qi Jiguang and Kunlunshan are set to visit Vladivostok, Russia, in late June at the invitation of the Russian Navy. The visit aims to strengthen military cooperation between China and Russia, reflecting their comprehensive strategic partnership.

On June 22, the Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed long-range combat training and returned to its home port in Qingdao. During the training, Japanese vessels and aircraft conducted multiple close-range surveillance and provocations, which the Liaoning group addressed with a high state of readiness and by launching carrier-based aircraft.

The Liaoning Carrier Group completed long-range combat training and returned safely to Qingdao on June 22. The training, which lasted over 40 days, involved operations in the South China Sea and the Western Pacific, enhancing the carrier group's operational capabilities.

Ukrainian Special Operations Forces are conducting training with the LRAD 1950XL-RT, a vehicle-mounted long-range acoustic communication system, in Ukraine. This marks the first observed instance of the SSO utilizing such equipment, which is designed for non-kinetic operations and can project sound at significant distances. The training suggests an exploration of new capabilities for psychological operations and border security enforcement.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed long-range combat training and returned to its home port in Qingdao on June 22. The training, which lasted over 40 days, involved operations in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, aimed at enhancing the group's mission capabilities.

Ukrainian forces conducted strikes on maritime logistics and oil infrastructure in Crimea on June 21, 2023, targeting seven ferries and air defense systems. The attacks significantly impacted Russian supply routes, particularly affecting the port of Kavkaz and oil facilities. Russian authorities confirmed the strikes, indicating a reduction in logistical capacity for their military operations in the region.

Dmitri VolkovMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Rocket Force publicly displayed and launched multiple Dongfeng-17 missiles on June 21, showcasing their operational capabilities. This event marks a significant moment as it coincides with the 60th anniversary of the Rocket Force. The Dongfeng-17, with a range of 1800 to 2500 kilometers, is designed for complex attack trajectories against high-value targets, enhancing China's military deterrence in the region.

Li MinghuiMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group completed long-range combat training in the South China Sea and Western Pacific, returning safely to Qingdao on June 22 after over 40 days of exercises. The training involved joint operations with an amphibious assault ship group and focused on real combat scenarios to enhance operational readiness.

The Liaoning aircraft carrier group successfully completed over 40 days of long-range combat training and returned to Qingdao on June 22. During the training, the group maintained high readiness against provocations from Japanese vessels and aircraft, conducting combat flight operations and adapting formations as necessary.

Washington and Tehran agreed on a 60-day roadmap for security in the Strait of Hormuz and Lebanon on June 22, 2026. The negotiations included discussions on safe passage for vessels and the establishment of a non-engagement cell involving the U.S., Iran, and Lebanon. Iran indicated plans to lift port blockades and release frozen assets, while the U.S. proposed a $300 billion reconstruction fund contingent on a broader nuclear agreement.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

IDV showcased its latest uncrewed ground vehicles, including the CLX2 light hybrid tank and the 6x6 Viking UGV, at Eurosatory. The Viking UGV features advanced sensor systems and a range of 30 kilometers, while the CLX2 can reach speeds of 70 km/h with a total range of 500 kilometers. These systems enhance the capabilities of armed forces in modern hybrid conflicts.

Prime Minister Takishi Sanae indicated that Japan is considering the deployment of Self-Defense Forces to the Strait of Hormuz, focusing on mine clearance operations. The Strait is crucial for global oil transport, with 21% of the world's oil passing through it. The report highlights the need for careful political decision-making regarding military involvement, referencing Japan's previous deployment in the Persian Gulf after the Gulf War.

Tanaka TakashiMon Jun 22 2026Loading...

Israeli Defense Forces killed two Hamas officers, Ahmad Zaza and Hussein Safadi, in the Gaza Strip on June 20. The operation was confirmed by the IDF in a statement released on June 22.

IDV unveiled a tracked uncrewed ground vehicle and a modified wheeled UGV at Eurosatory 2026 in Paris. The company, recently acquired by Leonardo, highlighted its investment in robotics and the development of technologies like MACE and ATLAS for military applications. Three UGVs were showcased, including the Viking 2.4 and CL2X, equipped with advanced weapon systems.