Analysis & Reports

The Russian Pacific Fleet conducted anti-submarine exercises in the Sea of Japan on August 25, 2023, simulating attacks on enemy submarines. Approximately 60 naval vessels and 30 aircraft participated in the operation, which lasted about 5 hours. The exercises are part of larger military drills that began on August 4, involving significant military assets in the region.

A U.S. Air Force C-17 transport aircraft landed at Vnukovo Airport in Moscow on the morning of October 25th. The aircraft had previously departed from Andrews Joint Base in Maryland and made a stop in Riga, Latvia on October 23rd.

USS Lincoln is returning to the U.S. after over 250 days at sea and is scheduled to dock in Thailand in early September 2023. The carrier has been involved in military operations in the Middle East and is now transitioning back to its home port in San Diego. USS Washington has taken over its duties in the region.

On October 24, 2023, the Chinese Air Force and Belarusian Armed Forces concluded a joint airborne training exercise in China, focusing on counter-terrorism operations. The exercise, part of the 'God Eagle' series, aimed to enhance the two militaries' operational capabilities through tactical coordination and command collaboration. This marked the fourth joint training event, emphasizing practical cooperation and regional stability.

The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted joint naval exercises with Indonesia east of Taiwan in August 2026, marking a significant expansion of its operational reach. Taiwan has expressed concerns over the exercises, viewing them as a potential threat. Indonesia characterized the drills as routine cooperation, but the activities suggest a strategic shift in the Chinese Navy's focus towards sensitive maritime areas.

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The joint airborne training exercise 'God Eagle-2026' between the Chinese Air Force and Belarusian Armed Forces concluded in Wuhan on August 24, 2023. The exercise, which began on August 12, included tactical movements, live-fire exercises, and urban anti-terror operations. This iteration marks the fourth joint training event aimed at enhancing cooperation and operational capabilities between the two nations.

The Louisiana National Guard ended its eight-month deployment in New Orleans on August 31, concluding final patrols in the French Quarter and other tourist areas. The deployment, initially planned for two months, was extended to enhance public safety during major events. Officials noted a significant drop in crime rates during this period, with the Guard assisting local law enforcement.

The Louisiana National Guard concluded its eight-month deployment in New Orleans on August 31, 2023, after providing security in the French Quarter and other tourist areas. The deployment, which began as a two-month mission, was extended to address public safety concerns during major events. Troops conducted over 31,000 hours of patrols and assisted in law enforcement efforts, contributing to a significant drop in crime rates in the city.

USS Abraham Lincoln departed the Middle East on the 22nd after an extended deployment of over 9 months, facing significant crew challenges and logistical issues. The carrier's departure does not alleviate the ongoing operational difficulties of U.S. naval forces in the region, as highlighted by the poor conditions aboard the USS Washington, which has taken its place.

Army Cyber Command established a Joint Integrated Fire Cell (JIFC) in Augusta during Operation Epic Fury to coordinate cyber operations. This JIFC, modeled after a similar structure used in Venezuela, aims to enhance the integration of cyber capabilities within military operations. Senior military leaders have acknowledged the increasing importance of offensive cyber effects in current military strategies, reflecting a shift in operational focus.

On August 23, 2026, the Chinese Air Force and Egyptian Air Force commenced joint air combat training at an Egyptian airbase. The exercise involved multiple aircraft, including J-16 fighter jets, and focused on air combat tactics and operational coordination. This training marks the second collaboration between the two nations' air forces, celebrating 70 years of diplomatic relations.

Two U.S. KC-135 tanker aircraft departed from Bezmer Air Base in Bulgaria on Friday, nearly a month after their deployment, which had angered Iran. The deployment was approved by Bulgaria's parliament and involved training missions over allied countries. Bulgarian Defense Minister Dimitar Stoyanov stated that there were no direct threats to national security during the aircraft's stay.

On August 24, multiple J-16 aircraft from the People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) conducted integrated training with virtual aircraft using a Live, Virtual, Constructive (LVC) training system in China. This training emphasizes coordination among various military assets, moving away from traditional individual aircraft training. The integration of virtual scenarios allows for complex training environments without a significant increase in flight hours.

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Russia is preparing to mobilize 300,000 new soldiers for the Donbas region by the end of 2026 in response to significant personnel losses. This move aims to maintain military pressure on the front lines while avoiding public panic associated with formal mobilization. The Kremlin's strategy reflects a need for additional infantry to sustain operations, particularly in light of ongoing losses and the challenges of maintaining troop morale and effectiveness.

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On September 23, 2026, the Chinese and Egyptian air forces conducted joint air combat training in Egypt, focusing on 1v1 and 2v2 scenarios. Pilots from both nations engaged in intense aerial combat, enhancing their tactical skills and operational coordination. Prior to the training, they discussed equipment performance and established safety protocols.

On August 23, 2026, the Chinese Air Force and Egyptian Air Force commenced the 'Civilization Eagle-2026' joint training exercise in Egypt, focusing on air combat scenarios. Chinese J-16 fighter jets engaged in 1v1 combat training against Egyptian aircraft, with an emphasis on tactical exchanges and safety protocols. The exercise aims to strengthen cooperation and enhance the operational capabilities of both air forces.

On August 23, 2023, the Chinese Air Force and Egyptian Air Force commenced the 'Civilization Eagle-2026' joint air combat training in Egypt. The exercises involved J-16 fighter jets from China and various Egyptian aircraft, focusing on 1v1 and 2v2 air combat scenarios. Pilots from both nations engaged in intense training, enhancing their tactical skills and operational capabilities.

The Chinese Air Force participated in joint military exercises with Belarus, Thailand, Egypt, and the UAE throughout August 2023, showcasing various aircraft types and enhancing operational capabilities. These exercises included intercontinental deployments and aimed to improve joint counter-terrorism operations and regional stability. Military experts emphasized the importance of these activities for fostering international military cooperation and demonstrating China's responsible global role.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 542 was awarded the Air Force’s Gallant Unit Citation for flying 1,099 combat sorties in the U.S. Central Command from March 15 to October 7, 2025. The squadron conducted significant operations, including Close Air Support and Defensive Counter-Air missions, during their deployment. This recognition highlights their operational impact in ongoing conflicts involving Iranian forces.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 received the Gallant Unit Citation for its actions in the Middle East from March 15 to October 7, 2025. The squadron conducted over 1,099 combat sorties, supporting various military operations including Close Air Support and Armed Overwatch. This award recognizes the squadron's significant operational impact while deployed in the U.S. Central Command area.