Analysis & Reports

Iran launched missile and drone strikes against US bases in the Persian Gulf in 2023, severely damaging US logistical capabilities. The attacks revealed vulnerabilities in US defenses, as air defense systems were overwhelmed by the volume of strikes. This situation raises concerns about the security of US bases in East Asia, which may face similar threats from China.

Syria aims to eliminate all foreign military bases, as stated by President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The country has reduced Russian military bases from approximately 170 to two, which are now designated as training centers. Syria is also addressing the legal status of Turkish military bases within its territory. Recently, Syria participated in Turkey's Efes military exercise, indicating a shift in defense relations.

Capt. Bianca C. Wilkerson, 37, of Norfolk, Virginia, died last week during a non-combat flight to Saudi Arabia due to a medical incident, marking the 19th U.S. service member death in support of the Iran war. She was posthumously promoted to major and was assigned to U.S. Army Central & Third Army, deployed in Doha, Qatar. Her death is classified as non-hostile and undetermined, contributing to the ongoing casualty figures in the region.

The Pentagon reported 19 U.S. troop deaths and over 830 wounded since the Iran war began on February 28, 2023. Criticism has arisen regarding the transparency and credibility of casualty reporting, with claims that the Pentagon's categorization of deaths is confusing. Legislation is being proposed to ensure accurate reporting and prevent manipulation of casualty data. The military's handling of casualties has led to growing distrust among veterans and lawmakers.

Hanwha Aerospace is establishing a subsidiary in Saudi Arabia by 2026 to localize the production of the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer. This move aims to enhance Saudi Arabia's military capabilities and reduce dependence on foreign suppliers. The K9 howitzer, capable of rapid fire and repositioning, is part of Saudi Arabia's broader strategy to strengthen its defense industry under Vision 2030.

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Houthi forces regained control of strategic coastal areas in Yemen, including the Bab el Mandeb Strait, in September 2023. They are employing advanced drone tactics against Saudi Arabia, which has failed to effectively counter these advances. This situation has disrupted global shipping routes and highlighted the weaknesses of the Saudi-led coalition.

Roketsan's KARAOK anti-tank missile successfully struck a target drone in Türkiye on September 23. This marks the first time the missile, designed for ground targets, has been adapted for aerial engagement. The KARAOK missile can be launched from a turret on a light tactical vehicle, enhancing its operational flexibility. Malaysia has contracted to purchase the KARAOK system, indicating international interest in this new capability.

Brazilian President Lula condemned Israel for committing genocide in Gaza during his speech at the 81st United Nations General Assembly on September 22. He emphasized that generations of Palestinians will suffer from this trauma and criticized illegal settlements in the West Bank for obstructing the two-state solution essential for peace between Israel and Palestine.

On September 22, 2026, CENTCOM expanded air defense coordination between Israel and Gulf states following a drone attack in Fujairah. The cooperation focuses on sharing early warning data and linking command centers to counter threats from Iranian missiles and drones. Despite the acquisition of advanced systems like Patriot and THAAD, the report highlights the need for improved operational integration and trust among regional partners.

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Intense fighting occurred between Houthi forces and Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces in Taiz province, resulting in at least 16 deaths and dozens of injuries. The Houthi forces reported over 600 casualties among government troops. Saudi Arabia conducted 936 airstrikes against Houthi positions, while the UK announced it would provide military support to Saudi Arabia. Houthi leaders warned against foreign intervention in the conflict.

Yemeni government forces engaged in intense fighting with Houthi militants in Taiz Province on September 22, resulting in at least 16 deaths and numerous injuries. The government forces repelled an attack, killing 12 Houthi militants and capturing two. Additionally, airstrikes were conducted against Houthi positions in Taiz and Bayda provinces, while Houthi sources claimed significant casualties among government troops.

The UK will provide defensive aerial refueling support to Saudi Arabia in response to Houthi attacks, with operations expected to begin in the coming days. France is also preparing to protect Saudi energy infrastructure. This military support follows Saudi Arabia's request for assistance to counter ongoing threats from Houthi forces.

The U.S. Air Force is upgrading the F-16 fighter jets with a new Next-Generation Mission Computer to enhance their operational capabilities into the 2040s. An industry day is scheduled for October 20-21, 2023, at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base to discuss the program's technical challenges. This upgrade aims to replace the existing Modular Mission Computer, improving reliability and processing performance for ongoing military operations, particularly in the context of activities surrounding Iran.

The U.S. Air Force conducted 10,000 sorties and struck over 13,000 military objectives during Operation Epic Fury in the Middle East. Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ken Wilsbach announced a shift in strategy, emphasizing the need for readiness and integration in future conflicts. The Air Force plans to introduce new autonomous aircraft and affordable munitions by 2032 and 2030, respectively. Additionally, the U.S. has expanded its economic sanctions against Iran to pressure the regime.

USS Abraham Lincoln is concluding a 305-day deployment, having engaged in combat operations against Iran and made a logistics stop in Guam. The carrier is expected to return to San Diego in early October after a lengthy absence. Concerns have been raised regarding the crew's conditions during the extended deployment, but Navy officials maintain that the crew remains focused and ready.

U.S. Navy Task Force 59 deployed three unmanned vessels in June 2023 for search and rescue operations in the Strait of Hormuz, successfully recovering two service members. In July 2023, the task force utilized these vessels to strike a submarine and ship maintenance facility at Bandar Abbas, marking a significant operational shift towards unmanned systems in combat. CENTCOM is actively expanding its unmanned capabilities in the region.

On January 5, 1999, U.S. Navy F-14 Tomcats engaged Iraqi MiG-25s in aerial confrontations over Iraq, firing AIM-54 Phoenix missiles that missed their targets. An Iraqi MiG-23 subsequently crashed after running out of fuel, unrelated to the missile engagements. The incidents occurred during Operation Southern Watch, aimed at enforcing a no-fly zone over southern Iraq.

South Korea faces military capacity dilemmas as it considers U.S. requests for support in the Strait of Hormuz while managing escalating threats from North Korea. The South Korean Army reported recent missile launches by North Korea, prompting concerns over troop deployment. President Lee Jae Myeong has ruled out war deployment, suggesting instead the extension of the Cheonghae Unit's operations for limited maritime security and humanitarian assistance.

The Leclerc Main Battle Tank, developed by France, entered full-scale production in 1990 and has been ordered in significant numbers by the United Arab Emirates. It features advanced technology, including a rapid autoloader and a sophisticated command system, making it a capable but less proven option compared to its NATO peers. Despite its lighter armor, the Leclerc is recognized for its excellent mobility and firepower.

A female U.S. Army officer died non-hostile due to a medical incident while on a military flight to Saudi Arabia on September 21. This incident marks the fifth death recorded under 'Overseas Operations' related to the Iran war, bringing the total fatalities to 19 since combat operations began against Iran in February.