Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Air Force and Space Force revised the SkillBridge transition assistance program, adjusting participation duration based on rank. Effective March 31, 2023, airmen and guardians will have varying maximum participation times, with specific approval required from commanders. This change aims to balance operational readiness with support for transitioning service members.

China acquired the Varyag aircraft carrier from Ukraine in 1998 for $20 million and transformed it into the Liaoning, its first operational aircraft carrier, commissioned in 2012. The acquisition involved a complex towing operation from Mykolaiv to Dalian, China, and was politically sensitive due to its military implications. The Liaoning has since become a key asset for the People's Liberation Army Navy.

President Trump proposed a $500 billion increase in defense spending for fiscal 2027, alongside a 10% cut in non-defense discretionary spending. This budget reflects military priorities as U.S. service members are deployed in the Middle East. The proposal includes a pay raise for military personnel and funding for new combat ships, amid ongoing tensions with Congress over federal program funding.

President Trump requested a $500 billion increase in defense spending for fiscal 2027, alongside a 10% cut in non-defense discretionary spending. This budget proposal reflects military priorities as U.S. service members are deployed to the Middle East. The plan includes funding for new combat ships and a pay raise for military personnel, amid ongoing tensions with Congress over budget approvals.

The U.S. military faces significant challenges in repairing its equipment due to contractual restrictions with manufacturers, which limits their ability to conduct repairs in combat zones. This situation has led to grounded jets and delayed missions, as troops lack access to necessary technical data. Despite bipartisan support for 'right to repair' legislation, efforts to change these policies have not succeeded.

U.S. intelligence assesses that China does not plan to invade Taiwan by 2027, although the PLA is developing capabilities for potential annexation. Critics argue that this assessment is overly optimistic and downplays China's military ambitions. The debate continues regarding the timeline and intentions of the Chinese government concerning Taiwan.

The Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, officially withdrew from ECOWAS on March 30, 2026, marking a significant shift in regional geopolitics. The AES established a joint military force to combat jihadist groups and announced the formation of anti-terrorist self-defense groups in Niger. The alliance has also pivoted its military cooperation from France to Russia, reflecting a broader ideological shift among its member states.

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Iran announced a bounty for the capture of a U.S. fighter pilot who ejected from his aircraft after it was shot down over Iran on April 3, 2023. Iranian media urged citizens to shoot at the pilot if seen, while U.S. officials are conducting a search and rescue operation for the missing pilot.

The White House requested Congress to approve a $1.5 trillion defense budget for fiscal year 2027, marking the largest request in decades. This budget represents a 40% increase from the current fiscal year's defense spending. Additionally, the government plans to cut $73 billion from various domestic agencies, affecting climate, housing, and education projects. The detailed budget proposal is expected to be released soon.

U.S. President Trump announced that Operation Epic Fury is nearing completion, with objectives in Iran expected to be achieved in two to three weeks. The operation, which began on February 28, has reportedly degraded Iran's military capabilities significantly. However, risks remain as Iran threatens further attacks and the potential for broader conflict looms. The U.S. aims to maintain pressure on Iran while preparing for a strategic exit.

Government forces in Mali and Burkina Faso have killed more civilians than jihadist groups, with 1,255 civilian deaths attributed to them from January 2023 to August 2025. The use of armed drones by the Malian army has increased, resulting in significant civilian casualties. The rise of ISIS in the Sahel is linked to the power vacuums created by military coups, exacerbating the security crisis in the region.

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China is developing the J-36, a hybrid stealth fighter-bomber with a diamond wing and three engines, which may face challenges in stealth effectiveness. The aircraft is designed to carry a large payload and perform air combat maneuvers, but its operational capabilities remain uncertain as it is still in the experimental phase. The J-36's design raises questions about its ability to rival advanced U.S. aircraft.

The Pentagon is pursuing defense acquisition reform to enhance procurement speed and efficiency. Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasizes the need for budget flexibility similar to that of civilian agencies to compete effectively. The current acquisition system is criticized for its lengthy processes, taking up to 25 years to deploy new capabilities. The report calls for a reevaluation of the Planning, Programming, Budget Execution (PPBE) process to enable more agile decision-making.

China is developing the H-20 stealth bomber, which has not yet undergone confirmed flight tests or operational deployments as of 2026. The People's Liberation Army Air Force (PLAAF) is attempting to leapfrog decades of U.S. stealth technology development, but faces significant challenges due to a lack of combat experience and integration of advanced systems. The H-20 aims to be an intercontinental stealth bomber, but its progress is currently hindered.

Dmitry Medvedev dismissed President Trump's NATO withdrawal threat as mere political showmanship, asserting that neither Trump nor Congress would permit such a move. His remarks highlight the ongoing tensions between Washington and its European allies, particularly regarding U.S. military commitments. Medvedev suggested that while a full withdrawal is unlikely, symbolic actions could occur, which may serve Moscow's interests by undermining NATO cohesion.

On April 3, the Russian government stated that Ukraine must withdraw its troops from Donbas to cease military operations. The spokesperson emphasized that the withdrawal should have occurred 'today' or 'preferably yesterday.' Russia will persist with its military actions until all objectives are achieved, and Putin is set to engage in international discussions regarding the Middle East on the same day.

The U.S. military has expended over 11,000 munitions in the Iran War, raising concerns about its capability to sustain operations against China in a potential Taiwan conflict. The report emphasizes the need for the U.S. to prevent a successful Chinese amphibious assault on Taiwan, highlighting the challenges posed by China's advanced military capabilities. It concludes that the margin for effective U.S. deterrence is thinner than previously acknowledged, as Chinese planners observe U.S. inventory depletion in real time.

France ordered its fifth and final Defense and Intervention Frigate (FDI) from Naval Group, completing its fleet plan. The delivery is scheduled for 2032, and the program for five FDI frigates is budgeted at €4.28 billion. The first frigate was delivered in October and is currently deployed with the carrier strike group around the Charles de Gaulle.

The Unified Force of the Sahel States (AES) launched in December 2025, comprising 6,000 soldiers from Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger, aims to enhance regional security. Based in Niamey, the force operates under a centralized command led by General Daouda Traoré. Despite its establishment, the AES faces significant internal challenges, including ongoing insurgencies and the need for self-financing to maintain operational autonomy.

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The U.S. Department of State approved a Foreign Military Sale to Singapore for 45 M30A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System-Alternative Warhead pods, valued at $83 million. This deal includes telemetry kits and engineering services, with Lockheed Martin as the principal contractor. The sale aims to bolster Singapore's defense capabilities and support U.S. strategic interests in Asia.