Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
China or Iran Don’t Need to Sink US Navy Aircraft Carriers: They Just Need to Light Them on Fire
China seeks to achieve 'mission kill' on US aircraft carriers in the Indo-Pacific by damaging critical systems to prevent flight operations. This strategy aims to reduce US air power during conflicts without necessarily sinking the carriers. The Chinese military may employ a combination of anti-ship ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, and cyber warfare to overwhelm defenses and inflict cumulative damage.
Protecting America’s troops on the digital battlefield: Rep. Jackson
A naval officer's use of the Strava app revealed the location of the French aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle in the eastern Mediterranean, highlighting the risks of ubiquitous technical surveillance (UTS) to military operations. The U.S. Navy emphasizes the need for improved digital discipline and protection measures for troops. Congressional actions are underway to address UTS vulnerabilities and enhance force protection through new legislation.
In Mali, FLA and JNIM tighten the noose around Anefis — 50 soldiers lost and Moscow exposed
On July 18, a convoy of Malian armed forces and Russian Africa Corps was ambushed near Anefis, resulting in at least 50 Malian soldiers killed. The ambush was claimed by the FLA and JNIM groups, highlighting a tactical alliance against the Malian army. Bamako confirmed the attack and is currently conducting a counterattack, as the Gao-Anefis route becomes a critical battleground.
Marie DuboisWed Jul 29 2026Loading...
Al-Shabaab kills 5 police officers in Kenya — Mandera becomes the forgotten test of 2026
Al-Shabaab killed five police officers in an ambush at Wantey Dam, Mandera, on Tuesday around noon. An IED targeted a reinforcement team, destroying an armored vehicle but causing no further casualties. This attack underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region, as Al-Shabaab continues to exploit vulnerabilities in Kenyan security operations.
Marie DuboisWed Jul 29 2026Loading...Washington prepares strikes in Mali — 50 soldiers killed and Bamako keeps the door ajar
On July 18, a Malian army convoy was ambushed in Tabrichaat, resulting in the deaths of 50 soldiers and the capture of 24 others. The attack was claimed by the JNIM and Azawad independence fighters, highlighting vulnerabilities in Malian military operations. Following this incident, the U.S. is reportedly exploring military options against JNIM, raising concerns about the effectiveness of current military partnerships in the region.
Marie DuboisWed Jul 29 2026Loading...Anefis and Niamey reveal the urban push of JNIM against Mali and Niger in 2026
On July 18, 2026, at least 50 Malian soldiers were killed in an ambush near Anefis, while on June 18, 11 Nigerien soldiers and 2 civilians were killed in an attack on Niamey. JNIM is intensifying its urban operations against Mali and Niger, targeting military and logistical infrastructures. The cooperation between JNIM and FLA highlights a tactical alliance against the Malian Armed Forces and their Russian partners, despite differing political goals.
Marie DuboisTue Jul 28 2026Loading...
China’s Plan to Beat the US Air Force’s F-22 and F-35: Build As Many J-20 Mighty Dragon Stealth Fighters As the Factory Can Pump Out
China is ramping up production of J-20 stealth fighters, with an output of 100 to 120 aircraft annually, aiming for a fleet of around 1,000 by 2030. The J-20s are replacing older aircraft and are strategically positioned for operations across the Pacific, including Taiwan and the South China Sea. The shift to domestic engines enhances production capabilities and reduces reliance on foreign suppliers.
Tiani accuses France in 2026 — Niamey turns two airport attacks into informational warfare
General Abdourahamane Tiani accused France of orchestrating attacks on Niamey's Diori Hamani International Airport on January 28-29 and June 18, 2026, framing it as part of an information war. The JNIM group is implicated in these attacks, which are seen as a strategic move against Western influence. Niger's military is increasingly aligning with Russia, marking a significant shift in its defense posture.
Marie DuboisTue Jul 28 2026Loading...Houthi Forces May Control the Bab el-Mandeb Strait as Yemeni Government Prepares for Escalation of Conflict
Houthi forces launched drone strikes against Saudi oil transport infrastructure on July 27, 2023, in response to Saudi airspace violations. The Yemeni government warned that the Houthis might attempt to control the Mandeb Strait, similar to Iranian tactics in the Strait of Hormuz, and is preparing for potential conflict escalation. Houthi representatives stated that their maritime blockade is specifically aimed at Saudi Arabia.
Trump: Enough Patience to Reach a New Agreement with Iran, Otherwise War Will Break Out
U.S. President Trump stated he is willing to negotiate with Iran but will resume military strikes if no agreement is reached. He emphasized the U.S. military's readiness and sufficient ammunition stockpiles. Ongoing negotiations involve Iran and Oman, with participation from Qatar, Pakistan, and Egypt. Trump also mentioned a sense of urgency in reaching an agreement before military action is considered.
ISWAP loses 3 propagandists in Cross Kauwa and reveals its weakness in Borno
ISWAP lost three propagandists, including Abu Salim al-Barnawi, during an attack in Cross Kauwa on July 12. The Nigerian military identified the casualties and recovered video equipment, highlighting ISWAP's reliance on media for propaganda. Concurrently, a coordinated attack by ISWAP was repelled at Logomani, resulting in one Nigerian soldier's death. Unconfirmed reports suggest 104 soldiers may be missing following a prior engagement.
Marie DuboisMon Jul 27 2026Loading...
Washington studies strikes against JNIM in Mali in 2026 — zero ground troops, limited impact
The U.S. is considering airstrikes against the JNIM in Mali in July 2026, following a recent attack that killed 50 Malian soldiers. The JNIM executed 18 disarmed soldiers after they surrendered. The presence of Russian forces in the region complicates U.S. military operations, as they must navigate potential conflicts with Russian interests while addressing the ongoing threat posed by JNIM.
Marie DuboisMon Jul 27 2026Loading...JNIM strikes 4 positions in Mali — Washington tests a military option in 2026
JNIM launched coordinated attacks on military positions in Gao, Anefis, Aguelhok, and Sévaré in July 2026, creating pressure on the Malian military. Concurrently, the U.S. administration is exploring military options against JNIM, despite Mali's denial of any U.S. intervention. The attacks highlight the strategic challenges faced by Malian forces as they manage multiple threats.
Marie DuboisSun Jul 26 2026Loading...Anefis 2026 in Mali — over 50 soldiers trapped by the FLA-JNIM alliance
On July 18, 2026, a convoy of Malian Armed Forces and their Russian partners was ambushed by the Front for the Liberation of Azawad (FLA) and Jama’at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) near Anefis, resulting in over 50 casualties. The Malian army confirmed the attack and is conducting counter-operations. The UN reported on alleged war crimes involving the execution of captured soldiers.
Marie DuboisSun Jul 26 2026Loading...Armed Attacks in Eastern Congo Leave at Least 32 Civilians Dead
The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) conducted attacks in the Mambasa region of Ituri Province, Democratic Republic of the Congo, resulting in at least 32 civilian deaths over the past 72 hours. The violence has led to significant displacement of local residents, with ongoing search efforts for additional victims. Since March, the ADF has reportedly killed over 100 people in the area, exacerbating the already dire security situation.
Trump Presses Pause on US Military Airstrikes as Saudi and Houthi Forces Exchange Attacks, Escalating Red Sea Tensions
U.S. President Trump ordered the military to cease airstrikes against Iran on October 24, 2023, coinciding with an Omani delegation's visit to Iran for negotiations. On October 25, Houthi forces launched missile and drone attacks on Saudi oil facilities in response to coalition airstrikes, while the Saudi-led coalition targeted Houthi positions in Yemen. The conflict in the Red Sea is intensifying with increasing military engagements from multiple parties.
Sudanese Military Claims to Regain Five Key Locations in North Kordofan State
On July 25, 2023, the Sudanese Armed Forces and Darfur local armed forces regained control of five strategic locations in North Kordofan from the Rapid Support Forces. The joint forces killed multiple personnel from the Rapid Support Forces and destroyed 73 combat vehicles. The operation is ongoing, with reinforcements arriving to ensure the security of main roads and facilitate humanitarian aid.
Germany's Withdrawal from 2 Hormuz Ships Highlights Europe's Maritime Capability Problem 2026
Germany withdrew the mine countermeasure vessel Fulda and supply tanker Mosel from Djibouti to the Eastern Mediterranean in 2026 due to operational and environmental concerns. This decision reflects Europe's challenges in translating political commitments into effective military operations, particularly in the context of the Strait of Hormuz. The ships are not adequately equipped for the extreme conditions in the Gulf, raising questions about European maritime capabilities and readiness for future missions.
Dr. Klaus WeberSat Jul 25 2026Loading...Washington envisions strikes in Mali in 2026 — JNIM forces an American return
On July 18, 2023, an ambush by JNIM and the Front for the Liberation of Azawad killed at least 50 Malian soldiers near Anefis, Gao, in Northern Mali. The U.S. is contemplating military strikes against JNIM as the situation in Mali becomes increasingly complex with Russian support for Malian forces and ongoing threats from armed groups. This incident highlights the challenges faced by the Malian military in securing key routes.
Marie DuboisSat Jul 25 2026Loading...
Elistair and Exail bring persistent aerial surveillance to unmanned surface vessels
Elistair and Exail integrated the Khronos tethered drone with the DriX unmanned surface vessel to enhance maritime surveillance. This system provides persistent aerial monitoring for coastal security and port protection, operating for up to 24 hours while streaming live video. The drone's capabilities extend surveillance beyond traditional surface sensors, allowing for remote operation from shore.
