Analysis & Reports

The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets on October 10-11, 2023, in response to ongoing Iranian attacks. Iran retaliated by striking U.S. bases in Kuwait and Bahrain, destroying 18 targets, and announced the closure of the Strait of Hormuz to all shipping. U.S. officials indicated a willingness to use military force to negotiate with Iran, escalating tensions in the region.

The U.S. Navy established Naval Support Activity Stirling in Western Australia to support the rotation of up to five submarines, beginning in 2027. This facility will provide essential logistics and maintenance for U.S. and U.K. nuclear-powered submarines. Australia plans to invest AUD 8 billion in infrastructure to support this initiative, while the U.S. faces challenges in submarine production rates that may impact operational readiness.

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The German Navy is expanding its capabilities with the deployment of P-8A Poseidon aircraft and NH-90 Sea Lion helicopters. On June 11, 2026, the Naval Aviation Wing commander confirmed that all eight P-8A aircraft on order will be delivered by late next year. Recent operations included joint patrols with the UK and exercises in the North Atlantic, enhancing NATO's defense posture.

U.S. President Trump announced plans to seize Khark Island, Iran's oil export hub, and intends to conduct larger airstrikes against Iran. He claimed that Iran has no air defense capabilities and that U.S. aircraft can operate over Tehran without detection. Trump emphasized the urgency for Iran to reach an agreement and indicated that the U.S. aims to control Iran's oil and gas markets, similar to its actions in Venezuela.

Marine recruits met their drill instructors for the first time at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego on May 30, 2026, during Pick-Up Day. This event, known for its intensity, marks the beginning of a 13-week training program where recruits learn military discipline and teamwork. Drill instructors emphasized the importance of communication and adapting to the rigorous demands of military life.

Russia demonstrated its Zubr automated counter-drone system, which detects, tracks, and engages aerial threats with minimal human input. The system, now active in protecting critical infrastructure, consists of four towed firing units armed with machine guns and operates continuously, effectively countering drone threats, especially at night. This marks the first operational display of the Zubr since its unveiling at the Army-2024 exhibition in August 2024.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN 78) successfully conducted integrated air wing operations in the Atlantic Ocean in 2026, validating its advanced systems during combat deployments. The carrier, equipped with technologies like the Electromagnetic Aircraft Launch System (EMALS) and Advanced Arresting Gear (AAG), demonstrates enhanced operational capabilities compared to the Nimitz-class. The USS John F. Kennedy is also progressing through sea trials, with delivery expected by March 2027.

Multiple drone attacks in Obeid, North Kordofan, on June 10 and 11 resulted in 23 civilian deaths and 19 injuries. The attacks were reported by Sudanese civil organizations, highlighting the impact on the local population.

The German Air Force showcased the Eurofighter at ILA 2026, featuring new systems like the Rafael Litening 5 targeting pod and Spice 250 precision munitions. Airbus plans to integrate these systems into the Eurofighter by 2029, enhancing its capabilities for future operations. The KEPD 350 Taurus missile will also be upgraded for the next generation of Eurofighters, set to replace the Tornado ECR fleet by 2030.

The U.S. Navy awarded a $17.6 million contract to General Dynamics NASSCO-Norfolk for emergent maintenance on the USS Gerald R. Ford, following its 326-day deployment. The carrier, which operated under threat from Iranian missiles and drones, is expected to complete maintenance by March 2027. The Ford participated in Operation Epic Fury and received the Presidential Unit Citation for its service during the deployment.

MBDA showcased a hybrid high-energy laser and missile interceptor system at the Berlin Air Show in Berlin, designed to counter drone threats. The DEWS-L laser weapon and DEFENDAIR guided missile system aim to neutralize small, fast unmanned aerial vehicles. This new system could be operational in Germany by the end of the decade, reflecting a shift in military focus towards precision strike capabilities amid rising demand for conventional munitions.

U.S. military struck an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on June 10, rendering it inoperable for attempting to transport Iranian oil in violation of a blockade. This action marked the third such strike by U.S. forces within the week, following similar operations against two other tankers flagged under Palau. The U.S. Central Command reported that missiles were fired after the crew repeatedly refused to comply with military directives.

Ukrainian forces launched an attack using FP-5 Flamingo missiles against the VNIIR-Progres military-industrial facility in Cheboksary on June 10, 2026. This strike, occurring over 900 kilometers from the front line, targeted critical navigation systems for military applications. Russia reported intercepting 326 drones but did not confirm any missile interceptions or damage to strategic sites, indicating a significant shift in Ukrainian military strategy towards targeting industrial nodes essential for Russian military operations.

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EM&E Group will present its new ODIN 6×6 C-UAS system at the Eurosatory exhibition in Paris from June 15 to 19, 2026. The system integrates drone detection and neutralization capabilities into a 6×6 armored vehicle, enhancing tactical mobility and protection. The exhibition will also feature other advanced defense technologies, reaffirming EM&E Group's role in defense innovation and European strategic autonomy.

On June 11, 2026, the Jordanian Air Force intercepted 20 Iranian missiles over Azraq, while U.S. forces reported intercepting 7 missiles aimed at Kuwait and Bahrain. Concurrently, U.S. airstrikes targeted Iranian military capabilities in response to these threats. Kuwait temporarily closed its airspace during the attacks, and a child in Bahrain was injured by shrapnel from intercepted drones.

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U.S. Central Command struck an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on June 10 at 23:20 EST, causing it to lose navigational capability. This marks the third commercial vessel targeted by U.S. forces within the week.

Scout Hawaii became operational in June 2026 and will participate in Valiant Shield 2026, enhancing U.S. tracking of Chinese satellites across Hawaii, Guam, and Japan. The mobile Scout-S radar system aims to improve space situational awareness and address vulnerabilities in U.S. operations against Chinese ISR capabilities. Its effectiveness will depend on timely data integration into military decision-making processes.

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An explosion was heard near the Sirik Coast in Iran on June 11. The cause of the explosion remains unknown, according to Iranian media reports.

The U.S. Army's M551 Sheridan light tank was deployed in Vietnam and Panama, where it performed its first and only combat jump in 1989. Designed to be air-droppable and amphibious, the Sheridan served in three conflicts until its retirement in 1997, despite facing criticism for its armor and firepower. Attempts to replace it with models like the M10 Booker were unsuccessful, highlighting the tank's unique role in military operations.

A U.S. Navy unmanned surface vessel, the Corsair, successfully recovered two aviators from a downed AH-64 Apache helicopter near Oman on June 8, 2026. The operation, led by U.S. Naval Forces Central Command and the 82nd Airborne Division, marked the first publicly reported personnel recovery by an unmanned vessel. Both aviators were rescued within two hours and reported in stable condition.