Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Sudanese military fires air-to-air missile from drone to kill drone
The Sudanese Armed Forces shot down an enemy combat drone using a Bayraktar Akıncı drone equipped with an air-to-air missile. This incident occurred during the ongoing civil war that began in April 2023, marking a significant development in drone warfare tactics. The use of drones for such engagements highlights the evolving nature of the conflict, which has resulted in a humanitarian crisis and extensive military operations across Sudan.
Liaoning Aircraft Carrier's Four Training Exercises in the Western Pacific Exposed: The Real Challenge of the J-35 on the Ski-Jump Deck is Not Takeoff
The Liaoning aircraft carrier group conducted tactical flight training and live-fire exercises in the Western Pacific on May 19, 2023. The exercises included comprehensive rescue training, reflecting a shift towards continuous operational capability. The J-35 stealth fighter is being assessed for compatibility with the carrier's launch system, amid rising tensions with Japan.
Li MinghuiSat May 23 2026Loading...Somali Pirates Make a Comeback Amid Middle East Turmoil
Pirate activities have resumed near the coast of Somalia, with 14 attacks reported since January 1, 2024. Two large vessels, including an oil tanker and a cargo ship, have been hijacked. The EU's Operation Atalanta has noted a significant increase in piracy incidents, prompting a raised threat level for maritime traffic in the region. This resurgence is attributed to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz and the resulting disruption of smuggling activities.
Liaoning Ship's New Combat Training: Can the J-35 Achieve Ski-Jump Carrier Takeoff and Landing?
The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) conducted high-intensity training exercises with the Liaoning aircraft carrier group in the Western Pacific, focusing on tactical flight, live-fire shooting, support cover, and comprehensive rescue operations. The exercises aimed to enhance operational capabilities and evaluate the J-35 stealth fighter's compatibility with ski-jump takeoff. Military experts noted that the integration of new aircraft marks a significant advancement in China's naval aviation capabilities.
42,000 Tons of Nuclear Naval Power: France’s Charles de Gaulle Aircraft Carrier Has a Message for Russia and NATO
The FS Charles de Gaulle (R91) has deployed to the Red Sea after transiting the Suez Canal to support operations aimed at reopening the Strait of Hormuz. This deployment is part of a broader effort to address significant oil supply disruptions and enhance NATO's strategic options against Russia and China. The carrier, which displaces 42,000 tons and operates a 40-aircraft air wing, represents a shift in France's military posture in the region.
Mali 2026 — the army and Africa Corps cross the threshold of the RBK-500
The Malian Army conducted airstrikes last week in Oubder and Tadjmart, utilizing RBK-500 cluster munitions. These strikes are part of anti-terror operations aimed at denying territory to armed groups. The use of such munitions raises concerns about long-term civilian safety due to unexploded ordnance. The involvement of Africa Corps, a paramilitary force linked to Russia, highlights the complex military dynamics in the region.
Marie DuboisFri May 22 2026Loading...
Enemy submarines are harder to detect, but next-gen sonobuoys search them out
The U.S. Navy is enhancing its anti-submarine warfare capabilities with next-generation sonobuoys, developed by Sparton, to counter the increasing stealth of adversary submarines. These sonobuoys feature advanced sensing technology and modular designs for rapid integration of new capabilities. The focus is on maintaining maritime dominance in contested environments, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
27 Naparama killed in Mozambique in 2026 — the Islamic State pushes towards Palma
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...48 schoolchildren kidnapped in Borno in 2026 expose the educational failure against Boko Haram
Armed men abducted 48 schoolchildren in Mussa-Biri, Borno State, during school hours on May 20, 2026. Boko Haram is suspected to be behind the attack, which underscores the ongoing security challenges in the region. The Nigerian military engaged Boko Haram fighters in a separate incident in Gajibo on the same day, indicating a complex operational environment.
Marie DuboisWed May 20 2026Loading...
The Liaoning Aircraft Carrier's New Combat Capabilities Face a "Big Test": Four Keywords Reveal the Highlights
The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) conducted training exercises with the Liaoning aircraft carrier in the Western Pacific on September 19. The exercises included long-range tactical flights, live-fire drills, and support operations, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the carrier group. The J-15T carrier-based fighter jets participated in these drills, which were part of a routine annual training plan.
The 4 Super Tucano of Togo announce a coastal air defense against JNIM in 2026
Togo will receive four Embraer A-29 Super Tucano aircraft in 2026 to enhance its coastal air defense against the Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM). The aircraft will be based in Niamtougou, strategically located near the Burkina Faso border, where JNIM operates. This procurement aims to address the ongoing threat of terrorism in the region, despite previous incidents resulting in civilian and military casualties.
Marie DuboisWed May 20 2026Loading...
The Procurement of 10,000 LCCMs by the U.S. Military Will Change Japan's First Island Chain Anti-Ship Firepower
The U.S. military plans to procure over 10,000 Low-Cost Containerized Missiles (LCCM) to enhance anti-ship capabilities in the Western Pacific from 2027 to 2029. Each 20-foot ISO container will hold 16 missiles, with the Barracuda-500M missile having a range exceeding 500 nautical miles. This procurement aims to shift the deployment strategy of anti-ship firepower, allowing for a more distributed and cost-effective approach to maritime operations.
Tanaka TakashiWed May 20 2026Loading...Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Conducts Live Fire Training in the Western Pacific on May 19, PLA Aircraft Carrier Operational Rate Undergoes Stress Test
The People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) conducted live-fire training exercises with the Liaoning aircraft carrier in the Western Pacific on May 19, 2023. The exercises included tactical flight operations and logistical support, aimed at enhancing the operational capabilities of the carrier group. This training is part of an annual plan and raises concerns for Japan regarding the increased presence and operational tempo of Chinese naval forces in the region.
Li MinghuiWed May 20 2026Loading...
Conducting long-range tactical flight exercises to test and improve practical training levels, the Liaoning carrier group conducts exercises in the Western Pacific.
The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted training exercises in the Western Pacific on May 19, involving long-range tactical flights and live-fire shooting. This routine training aims to enhance operational capabilities and deter separatist forces. The exercises included three active aircraft carriers: Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian, focusing on improving national defense and maritime security.
Metele struck by the United States and Nigeria — 20 ISWAP fighters killed in 2026
On May 17, 2026, U.S. Africa Command and Nigerian forces conducted airstrikes in Metele, Borno, killing over 20 ISWAP fighters. This operation, part of a broader campaign against terrorist networks, was confirmed by both AFRICOM and the Nigerian Defence Headquarters. The strikes utilized U.S. intelligence and precision targeting capabilities.
Marie DuboisTue May 19 2026Loading...
Lavrov courts Equatorial Guinea in 2026 and promotes the Russian model towards the Gulf of Guinea
On May 18, 2026, Russia expressed its readiness to enhance military-technical cooperation with Equatorial Guinea during a meeting in Moscow. The Equatorial Guinean foreign minister praised Russia's involvement in the Sahel, framing it as a stabilizing force. This cooperation aims to address Equatorial Guinea's defense needs, focusing on regime protection and maritime security, while positioning Russia as a key partner in the Gulf of Guinea.
Marie DuboisTue May 19 2026Loading..."Breaking the Situation: Navy Officially Announces Liaoning Aircraft Carrier with Live Ammunition Heading to Western Pacific for Training, Experts Analyze Highlights"
On May 19, 2023, the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) conducted naval exercises in the Western Pacific, featuring live-fire drills and tactical flight operations. This deployment involved three aircraft carriers: Liaoning, Shandong, and Fujian, and is part of a routine training plan aimed at enhancing operational capabilities. The exercises serve as a deterrent against separatist forces and reflect China's commitment to maintaining national sovereignty and security.
Russia brings Shahed-type drones to Mali conflict
Russia's Africa Corps deployed Garpiya-A1 drones against rebel forces near Sevare in June 2025. This marks the first confirmed use of this upgraded drone outside Ukraine, enhancing the precision strike capabilities of Russian and Malian forces. The Garpiya-A1, equipped with advanced navigation to counter jamming, signifies Russia's ongoing military engagement in Mali following the rebranding of Wagner Group.
The Navy's Liaoning Aircraft Carrier Group Conducts Training Activities in the Western Pacific
The People's Liberation Army Navy conducted training exercises in the Western Pacific on May 19, involving long-range tactical flights, live-fire shooting, and comprehensive rescue drills. This routine exercise aims to enhance the combat readiness of the forces and is in accordance with international laws and practices.
ISIS leader killed in Africa as US commander raises force reduction concerns
U.S. forces, in coordination with the Nigerian Armed Forces, conducted airstrikes that killed ISIS leader Abu-Bilal al-Minuki in Metele, Borno State. This operation, part of a broader effort to combat terrorism in Africa, highlighted concerns from U.S. Africa Command regarding the diminishing military presence and its implications for regional security. Following the initial strike, additional operations resulted in the deaths of at least 20 militants.
