Analysis & Reports

Japan's Self-Defense Forces demonstrated the Type 25 anti-ship missile during the 'Iron Sword 27' joint military exercise with the U.S. on October 25, 2023, in Kumamoto. This marked the first large-scale use of the missile since its deployment in March 2023. Although training was conducted, no live-fire exercises took place. The exercise involved around 60,000 personnel and has sparked local protests against military activities in civilian areas.

On October 26, a drone attack in Voronezh Oblast, Russia, resulted in 2 deaths and 17 injuries. The governor reported that 113 drones were shot down, with significant damage to local infrastructure, including businesses and residential buildings. The attack also affected train services, injuring 5 passengers on a train.

Japan's Type-25 anti-ship missile system was publicly displayed on October 25, 2026, at Ohnohara, Nagasaki, ahead of its operational use in the 2026 Keen Sword joint exercise. Approximately 45,000 Japanese and 11,000 U.S. troops participated, alongside forces from seven other nations. The exercise aims to enhance anti-access/area denial capabilities against Chinese naval forces, particularly following the recent operations of China's aircraft carrier Liaoning near Ishigaki Island.

Tanaka TakashiMon Oct 26 2026Loading...

Houthi forces launched ballistic missile attacks on Saudi-led coalition gathering points and weapon depots in the Salahuddin and Wahjat regions of Yemen on the morning of the 25th. The strikes resulted in dozens of casualties and the destruction of vehicles and weapon depots.

Chinese and Indonesian armies will conduct joint anti-terrorism military training in Guangdong from late October to early November 2026. The exercise will focus on mountain joint anti-terror rescue operations, including mountain climbing, specialized driving, helicopter insertion, and close-quarters assault. This marks the third iteration of this joint training series, aimed at enhancing cooperation and joint operational capabilities between the two militaries.

On October 26, the Saudi-led coalition destroyed two ballistic missile launch systems in Sana'a, one of which was targeting Riyadh. The coalition also intercepted a ballistic missile aimed at Riyadh. Houthi forces claimed to have successfully struck King Khalid International Airport and attacked Saudi oil pipeline pump stations with drones.

Colombian military and police conducted a joint operation in Cauca Department on October 25, 2023, killing 10 members of the anti-government group ELN, including two key leaders. The operation is noted as the most significant strike against the group in eight years, weakening its command structure and operational capabilities. The forces seized seven rifles, one pistol, and two grenades during the operation, and discovered a camp capable of housing approximately 25 individuals.

Japan's Type-25 missile system participated for the first time in the Keen Sword 26 exercise on October 25, 2026, at Kumamoto, focusing on long-range firepower integration. Approximately 57,000 personnel from nine countries are involved in this operational verification exercise. The U.S. Marine Corps also deployed NMESIS and MADIS systems on Yonaguni Island, enhancing joint capabilities in the region.

Tanaka TakashiMon Oct 26 2026Loading...

The Naval Aviation University conducted multi-subject flight training exercises involving J-15 fighter jets to assess pilots' physiological and psychological capabilities as well as their tactical skills. This training included both day and night operations.

Houthi forces conducted three military operations using dozens of ballistic missiles against targets in Saudi Arabia on the evening of the 25th. The first strike targeted King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, followed by an attack on King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait, and a third strike on a coast guard base in Jizan. They warned of safety risks in Saudi airspace, excluding certain areas.

On October 25, the Chinese Navy's Liaoning Carrier Group and the U.S. Navy's USS Theodore Roosevelt were reported to be operating simultaneously in the Philippine Sea. The ongoing Keen Sword 27 exercise, involving over 50,000 personnel, is taking place in nearby waters. Chinese military assets are reportedly tracking these exercises, highlighting the military significance of the overlapping operations.

Li MinghuiSun Oct 25 2026Loading...

On October 25, 2023, reports emerged regarding the potential deployment of the Russian Filin cruise missile, which has a range of approximately 1200 kilometers. This missile could necessitate a shift in Ukraine's air defense strategy, requiring broader coverage of critical infrastructure. The existence and operational status of the Filin missile remain unconfirmed, with implications for military resource allocation in Ukraine.

Dmitri VolkovSun Oct 25 2026Loading...

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) reported that 95% of vessels are safely transiting the Strait of Hormuz as of October 25, denying the presence of Iranian mines. CENTCOM's claims are part of an effort to redefine operational realities amid rising tensions with Iran, which has made conflicting claims about maritime security. The situation remains complex, with implications for regional security and oil markets.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Oct 25 2026Loading...

Space Force is increasing the number of guardians to support combatant commands in frontline roles and enhance integration into the wider military force. The service is focusing on refining the embedding of combat-effective guardians and developing on-orbit weapons systems for orbital warfare. Recent operations include support for U.S. campaigns in Venezuela and Iran, demonstrating the branch's combat credibility and commitment to achieving space superiority.

Approximately 600 British and French paratroopers conducted a large-scale airborne operation from four RAF A400M transport aircraft during the 'Rhino Titan' exercise in Sennelager, Germany. This exercise, involving over 2500 troops, simulates a NATO territory attack and aims to enhance readiness against modern threats. UK Defense Secretary stated that the military is preparing for contemporary challenges, amid rising concerns about Russian aggression in Europe.

China's Liaoning and a U.S. aircraft carrier may operate simultaneously in the Philippine Sea, testing their operational capabilities. This situation arises amid the Keen Sword 27 exercise conducted by Japanese and U.S. forces near Taiwan. The Liaoning, a Type 001 carrier, faces limitations compared to U.S. carriers, highlighting the strategic implications of naval presence in the region.

Marcus ChenSun Oct 25 2026Loading...

British and French paratroopers conducted a significant airborne exercise in Germany from October 24-25, 2026, simulating an attack on NATO territory. This drill, the largest of its kind in decades, aimed to enhance operational readiness in response to evolving threats in Europe, particularly following Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The exercise emphasized rapid deployment, logistics, and counter-drone capabilities, reflecting the current security landscape.

Alexandra ReevesSun Oct 25 2026Loading...

Algeria's National Council approved the deployment of troops to Niger on October 25, 2026, to secure oil facilities and counter threats from JNIM and Russia. This marks Algeria's first military operation outside its borders since 1973. The deployment includes Su-30 aircraft, indicating a significant shift in Algeria's defense policy and military readiness in the region.

Marie DuboisSun Oct 25 2026Loading...

On October 1, a U.S. Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet from Strike Fighter Squadron 41 returned to Naval Air Station Lemoore, California, displaying a submarine kill marking. This marking indicates a successful strike against a Kilo-class submarine during Operation Epic Fury. The aircraft, deployed from USS Abraham Lincoln, is noted for being the first Super Hornet to receive such a marking, highlighting its involvement in targeting Iranian naval assets.

Russian forces conducted 52 attacks in the Pokrovsk direction on October 25, 2026, deploying 5707 drones and engaging in 141 combat encounters across the front. The strategy focuses on attrition, utilizing drones and artillery to pressure Ukrainian defenses without achieving rapid breakthroughs. Ukrainian forces reported significant air and artillery activity in response.

Dmitri VolkovSun Oct 25 2026Loading...