Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force operated the SR-71 Blackbird, a reconnaissance aircraft capable of flying at Mach 3 and 85,000 feet, during the 1986 mission over Libya. Pilots underwent rigorous selection and training processes, including astronaut-level physical tests. The aircraft's speed and altitude allowed it to evade enemy missiles successfully.

Niger replaced its military chief on September 11, 2026, following a mutiny in Niamey. General Abdourahamane Tiani appointed Brigadier General Mamane Sani Kiaou as the new chief of staff, succeeding General Moussa Salaou Barmou. The mutiny involved attacks on sensitive sites by discontented soldiers, with Russian paramilitary support aiding loyalist forces in regaining control. This leadership change aims to stabilize the military amid ongoing jihadist threats and internal tensions.

Marie DuboisSat Sep 12 2026Loading...

Houthi forces advanced to Pylin Island, controlling nearby coastal areas on September 11, 2023. Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman requested U.S. military action against the Houthis, which was denied, with the U.S. offering intelligence support instead. This escalation raises concerns about the security of maritime routes in the region and the potential for increased U.S.-Iran tensions.

Saudi Arabia closed the East-West pipeline on September 10-11, 2026, following drone attacks launched from Iraq and Houthi advances in the Bab al-Mandab Strait. The Houthi movement captured key locations along the Red Sea coast, threatening Saudi oil exports and highlighting vulnerabilities in the kingdom's defense infrastructure. This situation raises concerns about regional security and the ability of Saudi forces to respond effectively to multi-front threats.

Ahmed Al-RashidSat Sep 12 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army Air Force showcased four types of military aircraft, including J-16 and KJ-500, at the Egypt International Airshow on October 10, 2023. This event highlighted their operational capabilities and the ability to conduct long-range missions, successfully flying from China to Egypt. The aircraft demonstrated a complete operational chain, emphasizing advancements in military technology and international military cooperation.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman requested military assistance from U.S. President Donald Trump to combat the Iran-aligned Houthis in Yemen. The U.S. responded by offering intelligence sharing rather than direct military action. U.S. Central Command's Adm. Brad Cooper visited Saudi Arabia for discussions amid escalating Houthi threats in the Red Sea.

Algeria has received two Su-57 Felon aircraft from Russia, with a total order of approximately fourteen. The Su-57 is marketed as a fifth-generation stealth fighter, but its radar cross-section is significantly larger than that of the F-35A, raising questions about its stealth capabilities. Russia claims to have additional export contracts, but details remain undisclosed.

Houthi fighters seized Perim Island on September 11, 2026, after Yemeni government forces withdrew. This takeover strengthens Houthi control over the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical shipping route. The Houthis have also captured other locations, including the town of Dhubab and Zuqar Island, amid escalating tensions and Iranian support for their operations.

The U.S. delivered military equipment to Nigeria in September 2026 while simultaneously reducing its troop presence. This shift aims to enhance the capabilities of the Nigerian Armed Forces against jihadist threats, particularly in the Lake Chad Basin. The U.S. strategy emphasizes local partnerships and operational support rather than direct military engagement, reflecting a broader reconfiguration of its military presence in West Africa.

Marie DuboisFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

Houthi forces captured Zubab town and completed control over the Bab-el-Mandeb Strait on September 11, following the withdrawal of Yemeni government forces from Pihlin Island. This strategic control is significant for maritime navigation between the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.

The Egyptian Air Force received its first CH-47F Chinook helicopter at the El Alamein Air Show on September 8. This delivery is part of a 12 aircraft order, with six more expected by the end of the year. The CH-47F offers enhanced capabilities over the older CH-47D variant, which Egypt has operated since 1981.

Russia showcased advanced weapon systems, including the Su-57E fighter jet and Yak-130M trainer aircraft, at the Egypt International Airshow on September 8, 2023. The event highlighted the Buffalo anti-drone system and various other military equipment, emphasizing Russia's growing military significance amid ongoing operations. The Yak-130M features modern systems for tactical data exchange, while the Su-57E is now being exported to countries like Algeria.

The Chinese Air Force displayed four types of military aircraft, including the KJ-500 early warning aircraft and J-16 fighter jet, at the Egypt Airshow on September 8, 2026. This marks the first international showcase of these models, emphasizing China's military capabilities and potential for export. The event also reflects Egypt's considerations for military procurement, focusing on comprehensive support systems rather than just aircraft specifications.

Li MinghuiFri Sep 11 2026Loading...

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) is actively participating in various international military exercises across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Europe, and Africa, focusing on humanitarian operations and defense cooperation. The report emphasizes China's commitment to a defensive military policy and criticizes Western narratives that misinterpret these activities as military threats. It asserts that the PLA's engagements are aimed at enhancing mutual trust and regional stability.

Houthi forces assert that international shipping through the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb Strait remains safe and is not threatened by their military operations. The spokesperson stated that their actions are defensive and aimed at specific targets, while also calling for peaceful relations based on mutual respect. This follows a series of attacks on Saudi oil tankers and energy facilities since July 20, 2023.

The Malian Armed Forces conducted military operations in August 2023, resulting in the deaths of approximately 1000 terrorists. The operations included 214 airstrikes that destroyed 50 terrorist bases, 564 motorcycles, and 129 pickup trucks. Additionally, 5 hideouts were eliminated, and a gold mining site was reclaimed from terrorists.

HAVELSAN signed a sales agreement with Egypt’s Arab Organization for Industrialization (AOI) for the HAMZA-1 UAV at the El Alamein International Airshow in 2026.

Alexander the Great, undefeated in battle, led the Macedonian Army to conquer regions including Asia Minor, Syria, Egypt, Babylonia, and Persia by the age of 30. His leadership style, as encapsulated in his famous quote about lions and sheep, highlights the importance of effective leadership in military success. He died at 32, shortly after which his empire fell into chaos among his generals.

Terrorist groups, including ISIS and Boko Haram, are increasingly using AI to enhance their operational capabilities and improve the effectiveness of conventional attacks. Notable incidents include the use of ChatGPT in the January 2025 Las Vegas bombing and AI-assisted planning by Boko Haram. The report highlights the growing threat posed by AI-enabled terrorism, emphasizing the need for proactive measures to address these risks.

The U.S. Navy is advancing its laser weapon systems, successfully demonstrating the Solid State Laser aboard the USS Portland in the Gulf of Aden on December 14, 2021. This initiative aims to enhance air defense by providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional missiles, which are expensive and limited in number. The Navy's ongoing efforts reflect a long-term goal to integrate high-energy lasers into its fleet.