Analysis & Reports

The Russian Strategic Rocket Forces successfully launched the RS-28 Sarmat intercontinental ballistic missile from Dombarovsky on May 12, 2026. This marks the second successful test of the missile, which is intended to replace the aging RS-20V Voevoda. The missile is reported to have a range exceeding 35,000 kilometers and can carry multiple nuclear warheads. The test follows a series of failures and is a critical step in Russia's nuclear modernization efforts.

Ukrainian forces tested the Hornet strike drone launched from a tethered aerostat at 8 kilometers altitude, significantly extending its operational range. The drone, which can now reportedly strike targets up to 300 kilometers away, was used to target Russian supply routes in the Donetsk region. The test demonstrated the drone's efficiency, consuming only 5% of its battery during transit, allowing for effective deep strikes against logistics.

On May 17, 2026, 27 members of the Naparama militia were killed in a twelve-hour engagement with ISIS-affiliated insurgents in Katapua, Cabo Delgado, Mozambique. The confrontation began after the insurgents set fire to the village of Messanja and ended when they crossed the Megaruma River. This incident marks the heaviest loss for the Naparama militia in a single action, highlighting the operational challenges they face against better-armed jihadists.

Marie DuboisThu May 21 2026Loading...

Canada broke ground on military construction projects in Latvia on May 19, 2023, including a rotary-wing helicopter facility at Lielvārde Air Base and accommodation buildings in Lielvārde and Riga. The €64 million investment aims to enhance NATO's operational capabilities in the region, with infrastructure to support up to 6 CH-146 Griffon and 4 CH-147 Chinook helicopters. This investment brings Canada's total military infrastructure commitment in Latvia to over €315 million.

Ukrainian forces captured two Russian soldiers near Kupiansk on May 20, 2026, who were tasked with displaying the Russian flag for media purposes. This incident reflects a shift in Russian military tactics towards smaller groups operating in the area, which are being targeted by Ukrainian drones. The report indicates that the Russian military is increasingly focused on visual confirmation of control rather than actual territorial gains.

Dmitri VolkovThu May 21 2026Loading...

BERTUĞ participated in the simulation-supported phase of the EFES 2026 Exercise in Istanbul, enhancing exercise management and operational simulation. Developed by ETE Teknoloji and HAVELSAN, BERTUĞ supports multi-domain operations and has been utilized in various military exercises, including NATO-related activities. Its deployment signifies Türkiye's growing capabilities in indigenous military technologies.

On May 21, 2026, Israeli officials, including Prime Minister Netanyahu, visited the eastern border to announce enhanced security measures in the Jordan Valley. Israel is implementing new physical and technological barriers, radar systems, and advanced surveillance to prevent arms smuggling and infiltration by militias loyal to Iran. This shift indicates a move towards treating the Jordan Valley as an operational front rather than a peaceful border.

Ahmed Al-RashidThu May 21 2026Loading...

Israeli airstrikes destroyed a historic community in Nabatieh, Lebanon, severely impacting local residents' lives. The strikes damaged shops, religious sites, and homes, with significant destruction reported. Since the conflict reignited on March 2, over 3000 people have died and more than 9000 have been injured in Lebanon.

The new two-seat version of the Su-57 fighter jet, potentially named T-50D, has been unveiled and is currently undergoing ground taxi tests at Zhukovsky. This variant is intended for pilot training and may also serve combat roles, integrating with unmanned aerial vehicles for enhanced operational efficiency. The design features a tandem cockpit, improving visibility for the rear seat pilot.

Philippine President Marcos is set to visit Japan on May 26, 2023, to enhance security cooperation and discuss energy collaboration. He welcomes Japan's revision of defense export principles, marking a new phase in Philippine-Japanese relations. Ongoing joint military exercises between the U.S. and the Philippines include participation from Japan's Self-Defense Forces.

The Russian Armed Forces conducted large-scale nuclear exercises from May 19 to 21, involving over 64,000 troops and 7,800 pieces of military equipment in Belarus and Russia. The exercises focused on the preparation and use of nuclear forces under conditions of aggression threat, including the launch of ballistic and cruise missiles. This operation serves as a significant political-military signal amid escalating tensions with NATO and Ukraine.

The People's Liberation Army (PLA) emphasized the development of low-cost and efficient counter-drone systems on May 21. The PLA is shifting its focus from simply acquiring equipment to ensuring sustainable operational costs and effective data feedback loops. This approach is particularly relevant in the context of potential conflicts in the Taiwan Strait, where various drone threats are anticipated.

Li MinghuiThu May 21 2026Loading...

The 83rd Group Army conducted tactical exercises in China, focusing on artillery coordination, mobility deployment, and fire strikes. The exercises involved rapid positioning and reconnaissance using drones, with a goal to improve response times and battlefield adaptability. Artillery units successfully executed multiple fire missions, demonstrating effective coordination and combat readiness.

The Naval Aviation Force of the Eastern Theater Command conducted cross-day and long-duration flight training to enhance all-weather operational capabilities. During the exercise, aircraft identified and responded to suspicious targets while managing complex electromagnetic interference. Ground support teams efficiently prepared the aircraft for subsequent missions, solidifying the unit's readiness for diverse military tasks.

On May 20, 2023, the Chinese government called for stronger actions to protect civilians affected by armed conflicts, highlighting that over 37,000 civilians died and more than 100 million were displaced globally last year. The Chinese UN representative emphasized the urgency of political solutions to ongoing conflicts, particularly in regions like Iran and Gaza, to alleviate civilian suffering.

U.S. officials have recognized Ukraine's military as the strongest in Europe, citing advancements in drone technology and operational effectiveness. The Delta system, which integrates various military technologies, has been pivotal in Ukraine's recent successes against Russian forces. As of 2024, the system has 270,000 registered users and is being refined for better integration. The U.S. Army is now adopting similar strategies to enhance its own capabilities.

The U.S. Air Force plans to transition combat search and rescue missions from the A-10 Thunderbolt II to F-15 Eagles and F-35 Lightning II fighters by 2030. This decision follows the announcement of the A-10's retirement, with a budget request of $10 billion for additional training for pilots on the new platforms. Concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness of the F-35 as a replacement for the A-10's capabilities in close air support and rescue operations.

The United States Air Force is transitioning combat search and rescue missions from the A-10 Thunderbolt II to F-15 and F-35 fighters as part of its future operations, with plans to retire the A-10 by 2030. The fiscal year 2027 budget includes $10 billion for additional training to ensure pilots are prepared for these missions. Concerns have been raised regarding the effectiveness of the F-35 as a replacement for the A-10's capabilities.

U.S. Marines from the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit boarded and searched an Iranian-flagged oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman on May 20, 2023. The tanker was suspected of attempting to violate U.S. sanctions by heading to an Iranian port. After the search, the vessel was released and instructed to change its course.

The U.S. Navy's Nimitz Carrier Strike Group entered the Caribbean Sea on May 20, including the Nimitz aircraft carrier, the 17th Air Wing, the destroyer Gridley, and the supply ship Patuxent.