Analysis & Reports

Iran's leadership, represented by advisor Ali Shamkhani, stated on January 30 that the primary task is to prepare for any threats. Shamkhani indicated that Iran has knowledge of enemy operational plans and is ready to launch strikes at an appropriate time to thwart these plans, emphasizing a broad and complex readiness for confrontation.

Israeli forces captured a key commander of Hamas in eastern Rafah, Gaza Strip, on January 30. During the operation, eight armed personnel were seen emerging from underground facilities, with three being killed by Israeli forces. The commander was apprehended while trying to escape and hide from the IDF.

On January 28, 2026, U.S. President Trump escalated threats against Iran, indicating potential military action if demands are not met. The Pentagon repositioned the USS Abraham Lincoln and other military assets within striking distance of Iran. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, with hundreds of thousands of personnel, remains a significant force. This situation raises concerns about global nuclear proliferation and regional stability.

U.S. President Trump intensified threats of military action against Iran on January 28, 2026, as the Pentagon positioned the USS Abraham Lincoln and other forces nearby. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, with hundreds of thousands of personnel, remains a significant military presence in Iran. The potential U.S. strikes could lead to unintended consequences, including accelerated global nuclear proliferation, as regional powers reassess their security strategies.

Russia is unveiling its new Sarma multiple launch rocket system (MLRS) at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, scheduled for February 8-12, 2026. The Sarma, mounted on a KAMAZ-63501 chassis, features six launch tubes and is part of Russia's strategy to attract Middle Eastern defense customers despite ongoing sanctions. The exhibition will also include other military equipment, highlighting Russia's continued interest in the region.

In 2026, tensions are expected to escalate in multiple regions, including Greenland, Ukraine, Taiwan, Iran, and India-Pakistan. U.S. military readiness is under scrutiny as President Trump has threatened action over Greenland, while Ukraine faces ongoing conflict with Russia. China may see an opportunity to act against Taiwan, and Iran's internal crisis could provoke external military responses. The rivalry between India and Pakistan remains dangerous, with both nations emboldened after recent clashes.

Turkey laid the keel of the first naval support vessel for the Portuguese Navy at Ada Shipyard in Istanbul during the week of December 17, 2024. This event marks Turkey's first military ship export to a NATO member state. The contract includes two Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment Ships designed for joint operations and humanitarian missions, with delivery expected in 2028.

Rostec will showcase advanced military systems, including the BTR-22 armored personnel carrier and Sarma 300mm multiple launch rocket system, at the World Defense Show 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. This exhibition is significant as it remains one of the few global venues for Russian defense companies to present their equipment. The BTR-22 features a modern design aimed at enhancing crew safety and operational effectiveness.

Pakistani security forces conducted operations in Balochistan Province on January 29, 2023, killing 41 terrorists. In Harnai, 30 terrorists were killed during an intelligence-based operation, while 11 were killed in Panjgur. The forces seized a significant amount of weapons and explosives, and recovered cash linked to a previous bank robbery.

The Israel Defense Forces completed a command post exercise named 'Lion's Moment' on January 30. The week-long exercise simulated operational progression within the Central Command area, focusing on decision-making processes and the implementation of defense systems. All necessary command rooms were activated to address various emergency scenarios.

The U.S. military is mobilizing forces in the Middle East, with the USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group heading towards Iran amid rising tensions. Increased deployments of aircraft and naval vessels have been observed at U.S. bases in Qatar and Saudi Arabia. Iran has responded by mobilizing its strategic drones and issuing warnings against potential U.S. military actions.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy will conduct live-fire exercises in the Strait of Hormuz on February 1-2. This announcement follows U.S. Defense Secretary's comments on readiness to respond to President Trump's directives regarding Iran. The Strait is a vital route for global oil and gas transport.

Iran threatens to disrupt the Strait of Hormuz as the USS Abraham Lincoln carrier strike group arrives in the Middle East. The strait, crucial for global oil transit, is at risk from Iranian small-boat swarms and missile threats. While Iran may attempt a short-term closure to exert leverage, U.S. naval forces are prepared to ensure the strait remains open, making sustained blockage unlikely.

The Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX) showcased advancements in unmanned systems from 20-22 January 2026 at the ADNEC Centre in Abu Dhabi. Various military and civilian organizations presented new technologies, including portable drone-based counter-drone systems and advanced UAVs. The exhibition emphasized the growing role of unmanned systems in military operations, particularly in light of their use in recent conflicts.

The Israel Defense Forces confirmed that approximately 70,000 Palestinians have died in the ongoing conflict in the Gaza Strip since October 2023. The IDF is currently assessing the casualties among armed personnel and civilians, with reports indicating that the figures are consistent with those provided by Gaza's health department. Israeli officials have stated that for every armed individual killed, two to three civilians also perished during the conflict.

Iran threatens to retaliate against U.S. Navy warships in the Persian Gulf, signaling readiness to defend its territory. The USS Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is currently deployed in the region, and Iran's military capabilities include drones and missiles. Despite previous threats, the likelihood of successfully sinking a U.S. carrier remains low due to strong U.S. defenses. Iran's military leadership has vowed a decisive response to any U.S. attacks.

The Tehran City Government has initiated plans to construct wartime shelter facilities, including converting underground parking lots into dual-use spaces for parking and shelter. Two pilot locations have been identified, and existing facilities, including subway lines, may also serve as temporary shelters during emergencies. This initiative is part of a broader urban development plan to enhance civil defense capabilities in the city.

Iran announced military exercises in the Strait of Hormuz scheduled for February 1-2, which will include live-fire drills. The announcement was made to passing ships via VHF radio, indicating potential impacts on shipping activities in the area. Specific details regarding the scale of the exercises have not been disclosed by Iranian officials.

Ukrainian General Cherry unveiled the Bullet interceptor drone at the UMEX 2026 exhibition in Abu Dhabi. This drone is designed to intercept Russian Shahed kamikaze drones, featuring a speed of 310 km/h and a tactical range of up to 20 km. The introduction of this drone is part of Ukraine's strategy to enhance domestic production of military UAVs and reduce reliance on foreign air defense systems.

Lowental Hybrid will supply hybrid-electric engines for tactical UAVs to Elbit Systems in Jerusalem. The decade-long agreement, valued at approximately $1.4 million initially, aims to enhance UAV flight duration and operational capabilities. This collaboration reflects the integration of innovative propulsion technology into military applications, allowing for stealth operations and improved endurance.