Analysis & Reports

Houthi forces launched strikes using ballistic missiles and drones against Saudi-related military targets in Mocha and Marib Province on November 11. The attacks reportedly hit military personnel and command centers, resulting in numerous casualties, including Saudi personnel. Houthi spokesperson Yahya stated that these strikes were precise and indicated ongoing military operations against Saudi forces.

U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancers conducted airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure from RAF Fairford, targeting ballistic missile production facilities and command centers. The operation, part of Operation Epic Fury, resulted in significant damage to Iranian capabilities and the elimination of senior Iranian leadership. The B-1B Lancer, capable of carrying a massive payload, played a crucial role in these strikes.

The U.S. Air Force deployed 15 B-1B Lancer bombers to RAF Fairford to conduct airstrikes against Iranian military infrastructure from February to March 2026. These strikes targeted ballistic missile production facilities and command centers, resulting in the deaths of key Iranian leadership figures. The B-1B, capable of carrying a payload of 125,000 pounds, played a crucial role in the operation.

Iran and North Korea have established a cooperative missile relationship since the 1980s, involving technology exchange and joint development of missile systems. This partnership has evolved from simple transactions to a more symbiotic relationship, with Iran developing its own missile capabilities while benefiting from North Korean technology. The Shahab-3 missile, derived from North Korea's Nodong, exemplifies this cooperation, enhancing Iran's military capabilities significantly.

Iran has maintained and upgraded its fleet of M60 tanks, originally purchased in the 1970s, with approximately 150 M60A1s still operational. The Iranian Army continues to modernize these tanks, introducing upgrades like the Soleiman-402, which features enhanced armor and electronic systems. Despite sanctions and historical challenges, Iran's efforts reflect a commitment to preserving its armored capabilities.

U.S. strikes targeted Iranian submarine capabilities in Bandar Abbas on March 19, 2026, following assessments that Iran had 24 mini-submarines. The strikes aimed at degrading Iran's naval infrastructure, which suffered significant losses during the conflict. Despite claims of total destruction, the exact number of surviving Ghadir-class submarines remains unverified, raising concerns about Iran's ongoing naval capabilities.

U.S. Air Force B-52 bombers conducted airstrikes over Iran during Operation Epic Fury after neutralizing Iranian air defenses. Eight B-52s, based in England, utilized their capability to carry 70,000 pounds of munitions, including JDAMs and JASSMs, to strike multiple targets. This operation showcased U.S. air superiority in the region.

Saudi Arabia is preparing a naval and possible land offensive against the Houthis to break their blockade on oil exports. The Houthis declared a maritime embargo on Saudi shipping, leading to escalated fighting across Yemen. Saudi Arabia has also formed the Multinational Maritime Defence Alliance to protect commercial shipping routes. Recent clashes have resulted in multiple casualties, indicating a significant increase in hostilities.

Alexandra ReevesTue Aug 11 2026Loading...

U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthogs are actively hunting Iranian fast-attack watercraft in the Strait of Hormuz and providing air support in Iraq. The campaign has led to the destruction of over 100 Iranian naval vessels. One A-10 was damaged by an Iranian missile but the pilot was rescued. The A-10's high mission capability rate has been crucial in the ongoing operations against Iranian forces.

Rafael’s Litening targeting pod significantly enhanced U.S.-Israeli strikes against Iran by enabling all-weather detection and engagement of targets. The upgraded system, equipped with Synthetic Aperture Radar, allows aircraft to identify targets through adverse conditions and at long ranges. It is widely deployed across 28 air forces, including the U.S. and Israeli military.

The US Navy spent $1.84 billion on modernization efforts for four Ticonderoga-class cruisers, which were ultimately retired without deploying again. This decision reflects the Navy's struggle to maintain naval capabilities amid modernization challenges and rising costs. The modernization effort faced numerous complications, including structural issues and extensive contract changes, leading to significant financial waste.

U.S. and Israeli air operations continued over Iran as of August 11, 2026, with no successful Iranian interception of advanced aircraft. The U.S. Air Force deployed 125 aircraft, including B-1B Lancers and B-2 Spirits, targeting missile facilities and command posts. Israel established aerial superiority, and significant portions of Iran's air-defense systems were destroyed, although Iran managed to shoot down an F-15E during the campaign.

Iran attempted to develop the Qaher-313 stealth fighter, unveiled on February 2, 2013, but it was later revealed to be a mock-up with no confirmed flight tests. The design has since been adapted into the JAS-313 drone, which is currently undergoing flight tests. No operational squadrons for the Qaher-313 have been confirmed, and its features were criticized for lacking essential stealth capabilities.

Elbit Systems reported a record $32 billion order backlog and $2.3 billion in revenue for the second quarter of 2026, driven by increased demand for advanced defense technologies amid ongoing Middle East conflicts. The company is developing high-power laser systems for military use and has secured significant contracts for tank upgrades and U.S. border security. The geopolitical situation has affected Elbit's operations, highlighting the intertwined nature of defense procurement and regional instability.

Israeli forces launched a significant artillery attack on southern Lebanon from September 7 to September 9, firing 455 shells and violating Lebanese airspace 97 times. On September 8 alone, they fired 229 shells, the highest single-day total since June 21. The UN reported that these actions violate UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which aims to prevent armed conflict in the region.

Iran launched an attack on an oil tanker near the Strait of Hormuz on August 9, 2025, firing anti-ship cruise missiles from southern Iran, which set the vessel ablaze. The incident remains unverified by U.S. Central Command and other authorities, with the tanker’s identity and status still unknown. This attack follows a series of similar incidents in the region, escalating tensions between Iran and the U.S.

Israeli airstrikes targeted Iran's F-14 Tomcat fleet at Isfahan on March 7-8, 2026, destroying at least two aircraft. The operational status of the remaining F-14s is currently unknown, with previous strikes also damaging additional aircraft in Tehran. Iran's F-14 fleet, originally purchased in the 1970s, has faced significant operational challenges due to age and lack of support.

Iran maintained a fleet of 225 F-4 Phantoms into 2026, utilizing them for military operations including strikes during the Iran-Iraq War. The aircraft, originally purchased under the Shah, have been adapted with new weapons despite sanctions. In March 2026, Israeli forces destroyed one F-4 as they conducted operations over Iran.

Iran has launched over 2,000 air, missile, and drone strikes across the Middle East, damaging 20 US military facilities in eight countries. The financial impact on the US military is estimated at $13 billion, with 42 aircraft reported damaged or destroyed. This situation highlights the vulnerability of US bases to modern missile and drone threats, particularly in the context of potential conflict with China.

On April 18, 1988, the US Navy engaged Iranian forces in the Gulf of Oman, resulting in the sinking of half of Iran's operational surface fleet during Operation Praying Mantis. The US retaliated after the USS Samuel B. Roberts struck an Iranian mine, leading to a series of naval engagements where Iranian vessels, including the frigate Sahand, were destroyed. This operation marked a significant shift in Iran's naval strategy towards asymmetric warfare.