Analysis & Reports

Israel is deploying modified commercial vessels as floating bases for 9 to 12 Hermes 650 Spark drones in the Eastern Mediterranean as of July 15, 2026. This initiative by Elbit Systems aims to enhance maritime surveillance and early warning capabilities while providing a cost-effective alternative to traditional aircraft carriers. The concept is positioned against competitors in the drone maritime market, particularly targeting regional threats to Israeli gas platforms.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Jul 17 2026Loading...

China is developing and deploying naval drones that pose a significant threat to U.S. aircraft carriers, particularly in a potential conflict over Taiwan. The First Island Chain is identified as a critical area for military engagement, with China's drone capabilities integrated into a reconnaissance and strike network. The Zhu Hai Yun vessel, officially a research ship, is capable of deploying drone swarms, enhancing China's naval warfare capabilities.

On July 14, 2026, attacks in Ondo Ugboju and surrounding areas of Benue State resulted in the deaths of 20 civilians. The Nigerian Senate has called for urgent military deployment to address the coordinated violence, which has caused panic and displacement among local communities. Concurrently, military operations in Zamfara successfully rescued 13 hostages, highlighting the ongoing security challenges across Nigeria.

Marie DuboisThu Jul 16 2026Loading...

U.S. Central Command concluded a series of airstrikes against Iranian targets on July 15, 2023, at 21:00 EDT. The strikes targeted command centers, air defense positions, missile and drone facilities, and coastal surveillance sites, utilizing precision-guided munitions. Earlier that day, a 90-minute operation was conducted on Great Tumb Island, focusing on coastal defense facilities and cruise missile positions.

The U.S. military resumed its maritime blockade against Iran on July 14, 2023, deploying over 20 naval vessels and hundreds of aircraft in the region. In response, Iran claimed to have struck U.S. military facilities in Bahrain, Jordan, and Kuwait. U.S. airstrikes targeted Iranian military assets, while Iran reported civilian casualties and retaliated with drone attacks on U.S. bases.

Al-Shabaab lost 46 militants in a series of operations across Somalia from July 11 to 13, 2023. Somali forces killed 26 militants in Middle Shabelle, 7 in Lower Shabelle, and 11 near Mandera. The operations indicate ongoing military pressure on Al-Shabaab, which continues to pose a regional threat despite these losses.

Marie DuboisWed Jul 15 2026Loading...

Boko Haram and ISWAP are employing artificial intelligence in 2026 to enhance their tactical capabilities in Maiduguri, Borno, Nigeria. They are using AI tools for training in operational tactics, including improving explosive devices and motorcycle maneuvers. This shift indicates a significant evolution in their military operations, with ISWAP demonstrating superior organizational discipline in integrating these technologies.

Marie DuboisWed Jul 15 2026Loading...

Elbit Systems revealed plans to convert commercial ships into floating drone bases capable of operating 9 to 12 Hermes 650 Spark drones, aimed at enhancing surveillance over gas fields in the Eastern Mediterranean. This concept, announced on July 15, 2026, is positioned as a cost-effective alternative to traditional aircraft carriers, reflecting a shift in military strategy towards utilizing existing commercial vessels for defense purposes.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Jul 15 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy requested the development of a carrier-based unmanned aircraft with a 1,000 nautical mile combat radius to enhance operational capabilities in the Western Pacific. This aircraft is intended for various missions, including surface strike and electronic warfare, and aims to address the limitations of current carrier air wing capabilities. Responses from industry are due by August 13, 2026.

Marcus ChenWed Jul 15 2026Loading...

On July 13, the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) reported the destruction of two CH-95 combat drones used by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan. One drone was shot down in flight by a missile from a Bayraktar Akinci, while the other was destroyed on the ground. This incident highlights a significant evolution in drone warfare in the region, with implications for both tactical and operational strategies.

Marie DuboisWed Jul 15 2026Loading...

The battleship Richelieu engaged in naval operations from 1940 to 1945, including firing at Royal Navy battleships during Operation Menace in Dakar. After sustaining damage, she was rebuilt in Brooklyn and later joined the British Home Fleet, participating in operations against Japanese forces. Richelieu ultimately finished the war escorting the same fleet that had previously attacked her.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets in Bushehr, Chabahar, and Abbas Port on October 13-14, 2023. President Trump announced the restoration of a maritime blockade in the Strait of Hormuz, asserting U.S. control over shipping in the area. In retaliation, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked the U.S. Fifth Fleet in Bahrain. The situation escalates tensions between the U.S. and Iran, with potential implications for global energy security.

The U.S. Marine Corps is integrating the Bullseye cruise missile into its operations, enhancing its capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. This missile, with a range of 186 miles, can be launched from air, ground, and sea platforms. Congress has allocated $40 million for its integration, which aims to improve the Marines' effectiveness against enemy defenses. The Bullseye is expected to play a crucial role in future amphibious operations and military engagements.

U.S. Africa Command announced plans to establish a drone academy and training center in Tan-Tan, Morocco, by 2030 to enhance African forces' counterterrorism capabilities. This initiative is part of a broader strategy shift, emphasizing empowerment over dependency as the U.S. reduces its military presence in Africa. The center will facilitate multi-domain training and innovation, with the African Lion exercise in 2027 serving as a proof of concept.

ISWAP attempted an infiltration at Cross Kauwa on July 11, 2026, but was repelled by Nigerian forces from the 19th Brigade, resulting in two soldiers injured. A recovered Sony camcorder revealed operational footage and connections to foreign facilitators. The attack aimed to loot medical supplies amid a cholera outbreak, highlighting logistical challenges for ISWAP. A foreign suspect was arrested and evacuated by the Nigerian air force.

Marie DuboisTue Jul 14 2026Loading...

Mali and Algeria reopened their airspace after 15 months, while JNIM and FLA launched coordinated attacks on Anéfis and surrounding areas in April 2025. The control of Anéfis is critical for logistics between Kidal and Gao, and the situation has led to increased human rights abuses in the region. The Malian army faces significant challenges from these armed groups.

Marie DuboisTue Jul 14 2026Loading...

The U.S. military conducted airstrikes against Iranian military targets in Bushehr, Chabahar, and Abbas Port on July 13-14, 2023, marking the third consecutive night of strikes. Following this, the U.S. announced a maritime blockade against Iran, effective July 14. In retaliation, Iranian forces attacked U.S. bases in the Middle East, including the Fifth Fleet in Bahrain, and Jordan intercepted missiles launched from Iran.

The Sudanese Armed Forces destroyed two Chinese-made CH-95 drones operated by the Rapid Support Forces on July 13, 2023. One drone was shot down with an air-to-air missile, while the other was wrecked on the ground. This incident highlights the ongoing conflict in Sudan, where both sides increasingly rely on drones for military operations.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Major Non-NATO Ally Terror Threat Assessment Act on July 13, 2023, requiring a report on terrorist organizations in allied countries. This legislation aims to enhance oversight of security cooperation with nations like Egypt, Jordan, and Qatar, where terrorist groups operate. The Secretary of Homeland Security will provide assessments every two years to Congress, detailing the activities of these organizations and the effectiveness of partner governments in addressing them.

On July 13, U.S. Central Command confirmed the deployment of 3 'Pirate' unmanned surface vessels to strike a submarine and ship repair facility at Abbas Port, Iran. This operation marks the first combat use of these vessels, aimed at diminishing Iran's capacity to threaten commercial shipping in the Strait of Hormuz. The U.S. military has been testing these vessels for the past two years.