Analysis & Reports

The Russian Navy announced plans to replace its entire fleet of third-generation nuclear-powered attack submarines with 12 Yasen-class submarines by 2035. This modernization aims to phase out aging Soviet-era submarines and enhance undersea capabilities with advanced weaponry, including Zircon hypersonic missiles. The latest Yasen-M submarine, Perm, was launched in March 2025, marking a significant step in this initiative. However, resource constraints may challenge the timely completion of this ambitious plan.

Russia developed the Sierra Class submarines, including the Sierra I and II, which feature titanium hulls for deep diving. Only four submarines were built due to high costs and complexity. The U.S. Navy responded with the Mark 48 torpedo, designed to effectively target these submarines. Currently, the operational status of the Sierra II submarines is limited, primarily due to maintenance challenges.

Ukraine launched its largest drone attack on Russia in over a year, with 389 drones intercepted by Russian air defense from the night of the 24th to the morning of the 25th. Concurrently, Russia fired nearly 1,000 drones into Ukraine in a single day. Negotiations between the two nations continue without significant progress, as both sides maintain high levels of military activity.

The U.S. Navy is prepared to deploy Triton Autonomous Underwater and Surface Vehicles (AUSVs) for mine counter-measures in the Strait of Hormuz. Triton, equipped with advanced detection and neutralization capabilities, has been evaluated since 2023 and is ready for immediate action. This deployment aims to enhance maritime security and ensure safe passage in a region threatened by Iranian activities.

Russian sources released footage of the Lys-2 counter-drone interceptor, showcasing its operational capabilities on March 24. The Lys-2, a fixed-wing drone, is designed for autonomous target engagement and can be launched from a catapult, eliminating the need for a runway. It is reported to have a range of up to 15 kilometers and speeds between 120 and 160 kilometers per hour, fitting into a broader category of low-cost counter-drone solutions.

Ukrainian strike drones targeted and damaged the Project 23550 patrol icebreaker 'Purga' at the Vyborg Shipyard in the Leningrad region. The attack resulted in visible damage to the vessel, which is under construction for Russia's Federal Security Service Border Guard. This strike may delay the ship's operational readiness and disrupt production schedules for Russian military assets.

On March 25, 2026, the Russian military shot down 389 Ukrainian drones during a large-scale attack. The operation targeted areas in Moscow and Leningrad Oblast, following a significant drone assault by Russian forces on March 24, which involved over 550 drones. Ukrainian air defense systems reported downing or suppressing 541 Russian drones by the same date.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched a relentless missile offensive against Israeli military positions in northern Israel and Gaza on March 25, 2023. Key locations targeted include Tel Aviv, Bnei Brak, and various military bases in Kuwait and Bahrain. The operation, termed 'Real Commitment-4', involves sustained strikes using missiles and drones and is currently ongoing.

On June 1, 2025, the Security Service of Ukraine executed a coordinated drone strike deep inside Russia, targeting four strategic air bases and destroying over 40 aircraft. This operation, involving more than 150 small drones, showcased the effectiveness of modern asymmetric warfare tactics, bypassing traditional air defenses. The attack significantly impacted Russia's long-range bomber fleet, representing 34% of its strategic cruise missile capabilities.

Ukrainian forces destroyed a Bastion launcher and two Zircon missiles in Crimea on March 24. The operation resulted in the deaths or injuries of seven Russian personnel. This strike targeted a column of Bastion launchers that had been moving toward firing positions, reflecting a significant disruption in Russian missile capabilities.

Russian forces launched a Spring 2026 offensive in eastern Ukraine on March 19, employing battalion-sized mechanized assaults in the Lyman direction. Despite initial attacks being repelled by Ukrainian forces, Russia is redeploying elite units to bolster its operations. Concurrently, Ukrainian counteroffensives have disrupted Russian plans, leading to significant territorial gains. The air campaign has intensified, with numerous drone strikes targeting Ukrainian infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovTue Mar 24 2026Loading...

As of early 2026, Russia's fleet of Su-57 Felon stealth fighters consists of only 20-25 operational aircraft, significantly fewer than a U.S. Navy aircraft carrier air wing. The aircraft are currently stationed at Dzyomgi Air Base to avoid detection by Ukrainian drones. The Su-57's stealth capabilities are under scrutiny, with a radar cross-section reported to be 1,000 times larger than that of the F-35, raising concerns about its effectiveness in combat.

Russia's Amur-class submarine program is stalled, with no hulls completed by 2026 due to technical failures and sanctions. Potential buyers like India and Morocco are seeking alternatives, as the program has faced significant delays and dissatisfaction. The Rubin Central Design Bureau's design promises advanced capabilities, but the lack of progress raises concerns about its viability.

A drone attack targeted an oil depot in Primorsk, Leningrad Oblast, on March 23, 2023, causing a fire and staff evacuation. The regional governor reported the destruction of over 60 drones in the area within a day. Pulkovo Airport canceled 62 flights and delayed 80 due to the threat, with operations gradually resuming as safety measures were implemented.

The Israeli Air Force conducted strikes on Iranian Navy assets in Bandar Anzali on March 19, 2026, resulting in the destruction of at least two Sina-class missile boats and one Hamzeh vessel. This operation, part of the 'Roar of the Lion' campaign, targeted missile-equipped vessels while docked, significantly impacting Iranian naval capabilities in the Caspian Sea.

Rostec delivered a new batch of Pantsir-S air defense systems to the Russian Defense Ministry. The Pantsir-S is designed to protect against aerial threats and has been actively engaged in combat. Despite claims of its effectiveness, independent sources have confirmed significant losses of these systems since the start of the invasion.

Russian Air Defense Forces intercepted over 30 drones heading towards Moscow on March 21, 2023, between midnight and 1 PM. In the previous day, they reported destroying a total of 668 Ukrainian drones. Additionally, from March 14 to 16, they shot down 65, 54, and 62 drones respectively.

Russia is modernizing its military capabilities in 2026, focusing on strategic systems like the RS-28 Sarmat ICBM and the Khabarovsk submarine for Poseidon operations. The Su-75 Checkmate fighter is set for its maiden flight, while the S-500 Prometheus air defense system is being deployed in critical areas. This modernization reflects a shift towards asymmetric advantages and enhanced deterrence capabilities.

Dmitri VolkovSat Mar 21 2026Loading...

Technical details of the Yolka interceptor drone were published, revealing its operational limitations and capabilities. The drone operates only during daylight, has a range of 3 kilometers, and can reach speeds of 200 km/h. It is designed for kinetic interception and is manufactured in Moscow, with multiple configurations based on battlefield experience.

Russian forces are adapting their drone operations and redeploying units in response to Ukrainian advances and communication challenges across the eastern and southern fronts. The 40th Naval Infantry Brigade and 120th Naval Infantry Division have been redeployed to the Oleksandrivka direction, while over 100 Molniya drones were destroyed by Ukrainian forces. Russia plans to expand its Unmanned Systems Forces to 101,000 personnel by April 1, 2026, amid ongoing operational setbacks.

Dmitri VolkovFri Mar 20 2026Loading...