Analysis & Reports

U.S. Air Force F-22 Raptors are deployed from Kadena Air Base in Japan to maintain air power and readiness in the Pacific region between August and September 2023. This deployment serves as a deterrent amid increasing Chinese military activity around Taiwan. The F-22's supercruise capability enables it to sustain speeds above Mach 1.5 without using afterburners, enhancing operational efficiency.

The U.S. Navy is modernizing its three Zumwalt-class destroyers, planning to replace their radar systems and adapt them for Conventional Prompt Strike hypersonic missiles. Originally intended to be a fleet of 32 ships, the program faced significant cost overruns and challenges, leading to the cancellation of ammunition for their guns. The modernization is expected to continue into 2028, with the first at-sea test of the new weapon planned for 2027.

The SR-71 Blackbird, operational from the mid-1960s to the late 1990s, faced over 4,000 missile launches from various nations, including North Vietnam and Libya, without sustaining any hits. Its defense strategy relied solely on speed, allowing it to evade all missile threats. The only confirmed missile engagement occurred in 1981 over Korea, where the missiles missed the aircraft.

U.S. Department of Defense officials are urging Congress to approve a $1.5 trillion defense budget for fiscal year 2027 to replenish critical weapon and ammunition stocks. This budget request, submitted by the Trump administration, marks the largest military funding request in U.S. history, reflecting a 42% increase from the previous year. The Pentagon is currently awaiting funding to fulfill contracts with defense contractors.

Houthi forces attacked civilian targets in Tuwal, Jazan Province, Saudi Arabia, on September 12, injuring 2 people and damaging several buildings and vehicles. The Saudi Civil Defense condemned the attack as a violation of international humanitarian law. In response, Houthi forces warned of retaliation against recent Saudi airstrikes in Yemen.

The Saudi Air Force conducted 129 airstrikes against Houthi positions across seven provinces in Yemen over the past 48 hours. The airstrikes involved F-15 and Typhoon fighter jets targeting areas including Taiz, Marib, and Hodeidah. Houthi forces have intensified their offensive, capturing significant territory and warning of retaliation against the airstrikes.

Houthi forces launched a significant military operation against Saudi military facilities in Shaybah, utilizing a large number of ballistic missiles and drones. The attack targeted a weapons depot and a command control center, resulting in precise strikes. Houthi spokesperson Yahya warned of escalated actions if Saudi military operations against Yemen persist.

Argentina plans to establish a naval military base in Ushuaia, with construction set to begin on January 2. The base will support submarines, naval infantry, and naval aviation, serving as a logistics hub for Argentina's Antarctic operations. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to enhance Argentina's military presence in the South Atlantic, amidst ongoing sovereignty disputes with the UK over the Falkland Islands.

The U.S. Air Force retired the EC-130H Compass Call electronic warfare plane at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in September 2021 after nearly 19 years of continuous deployment. The aircraft completed 14,753 sorties and 90,364.4 combat flight hours. It will be replaced by the EA-37B, which offers enhanced capabilities for electronic warfare operations.

The last EC-130H Compass Call electronic warfare plane retired after its final flight over Arizona in September 2026, concluding its 19-year service. The aircraft, part of the 55th Electronic Combat Group, was replaced by the EA-37B Compass Call, which offers enhanced electronic warfare capabilities. The EC-130H had a significant operational history, including 14,753 sorties and 90,364.4 combat flight hours since its first deployment in 2002.

In Brussels, Polish Navy special forces Sgt. Tomec Majka met with members of the Dutch Joint Sigint Cyber Unit and 617 Squadron RAF to discuss past military operations and the implications of cyber warfare. They highlighted the risks of cyber attacks on civilian infrastructure during extreme weather events, emphasizing the need for coordinated defense strategies. Tomec is attending an awards ceremony for his contributions to NATO's cyber defense efforts.

China is testing a new Type 19 amphibious combat vehicle equipped with a laser turret for counter-drone defense during potential operations against Taiwan in 2026. This development aims to enhance the PLA's capabilities in amphibious assaults by providing immediate drone defense for forward units. The vehicle is linked to the PLA's Eastern Theatre Command and the 73rd Group Army, indicating its relevance in a Taiwan contingency.

Marcus ChenSat Sep 12 2026Loading...

The Ukrainian Navy's Sargan-3000 destroyed a Russian drone boat in the Black Sea, marking the first-ever battle between uncrewed naval vessels. The engagement involved a remote-controlled 12.7mm machine gun turret and was supported by Ukraine's Defense Intelligence. This incident highlights ongoing military operations in the region, with Ukraine successfully targeting Russian naval assets.

Capt. Michael Cloninger of the 90th Fighter Squadron successfully executed a belly landing of an F-22 on September 18, 2024, after losing a landing wheel during a tribute flight in the Central Command area. His actions earned him the Air Force’s top flight safety award, presented by Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach. Cloninger's successful landing ensured the safety of himself and the aircraft, which was later recovered.

Capt. Michael Cloninger of the 90th Fighter Squadron safely executed a belly landing of his F-22 on September 18, 2024, after losing a landing wheel during flight in the Central Command area. His successful maneuver earned him the 2025 Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy, recognizing his extraordinary airmanship and teamwork in managing the emergency situation.

Capt. Michael Cloninger of the 90th Fighter Squadron safely executed a belly landing of an F-22 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, on September 18, 2024, after the front landing gear failed during a ceremonial flight. He circled the airfield for an hour to burn off fuel before landing without incident. Cloninger was later awarded the Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy for his exceptional airmanship during the emergency.

Capt. Michael Cloninger of the 90th Fighter Squadron safely executed a belly landing of an F-22 aircraft after the right wheel assembly broke off during a ceremonial flight on September 18, 2024, at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. The pilot circled for an hour to burn off fuel before landing. He was later awarded the Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy for his extraordinary airmanship during the emergency.

Chinese military researchers tested the effectiveness of large-caliber guns against drone swarms using 30 Russian-made Lancet-3 drones in a simulation. The study concluded that while artillery alone cannot fully defend against drone swarms, it could be part of a layered defense strategy. The research was conducted by the People’s Liberation Army Dalian Naval Academy in Dalian, China, and suggests a reevaluation of battleship capabilities in modern naval warfare.

Frederick the Great, King of Prussia from 1740 to 1786, is noted for his military genius and reforms that modernized his kingdom. His famous quote, 'He who defends everything defends nothing,' emphasizes the importance of strategic focus in military operations. The report highlights his influence on military thought and leadership, particularly in the context of modern military strategy.

Saudi Arabia shut down the East-West pipeline (Petroline) on September 12 following a drone attack attributed to Iraq. The incident underscores vulnerabilities in Saudi energy infrastructure and raises concerns about regional security. Multiple sources reported the attack, although Iraqi factions disputed responsibility, complicating the situation further.

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