Analysis & Reports

The Sahel States Alliance (AES) became fully operational with 6,000 troops on February 27, 2026, following a strategic meeting in Ouagadougou. This force aims to counter intensified jihadist operations by Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) in the region. Concurrently, the Mali army conducted successful airstrikes against JNIM fighters, demonstrating increased military capabilities. The CEDEAO is also planning to deploy a smaller force to address regional security threats.

Marie DuboisSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

China authorized the transfer of carrier-killer missiles to Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, significantly narrowing the diplomatic window for the U.S. and Israel. This development prompted military preparations and actions by both nations in response to perceived threats from Iran's naval capabilities. Diplomatic efforts in Muscat and Geneva were undermined as tensions escalated, leading to a preemptive military response.

President Trump ordered a full assault on Iran in 2026, utilizing USAF B-21 Raiders and Navy Carrier Strike Groups to target Iranian defenses. The operation aims for regime change, with potential ground troop involvement if internal uprisings fail. The campaign risks escalating into a larger conflict, with Iranian proxies possibly retaliating against U.S. forces. The U.S. public remains largely uninformed about the war's objectives and implications.

U.S. and Israeli forces launched strikes on Iran, prompting emergency meetings among European leaders on Saturday. French President Macron called for a U.N. Security Council meeting, while leaders from Germany and the U.K. discussed the escalating situation. The strikes have raised fears of a broader conflict, with various international leaders condemning the actions and calling for restraint and negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program.

U.S. and Israeli forces conducted airstrikes on Iran on Saturday, prompting emergency security meetings among European leaders. French President Macron called for a U.N. Security Council meeting, while the European Union urged restraint and diplomatic engagement. The attacks have raised fears of a broader conflict in the Middle East, with various leaders condemning the unilateral military action and calling for negotiations regarding Iran's nuclear program.

The U.S. Air Force is on track to debut the F-47 Next Generation Air Dominance fighter in 2028, with Boeing successfully meeting development milestones. The aircraft is designed to operate in contested environments, featuring advanced capabilities such as a combat radius of 1,000 nautical miles and the ability to deploy nuclear-tipped hypersonic weapons. Production is already underway, with plans for up to 185 units depending on budget constraints.

Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez condemned unilateral military actions by the U.S. and Israel, urging immediate de-escalation and diplomatic dialogue. He expressed concerns over rising instability in the Middle East and called for respect for international law. Sánchez also condemned actions by Iran, emphasizing the need for a lasting political solution in the region.

On the 28th, Iran's Supreme National Security Council issued a statement urging citizens to report any suspicious activities, including espionage, due to ongoing aggression from the U.S. and Israel. The judiciary will impose severe penalties on those collaborating with enemies during wartime.

The U.S. approved a $280 million Foreign Military Sale to Jordan for Ku Band Multi-Function Radio Frequency System (KuMRFS) radars and related equipment on February 26, 2026. This sale aims to enhance Jordan's operational readiness and support multinational security operations linked to U.S. Central Command. The package includes various command and control systems and supporting equipment, with RTX Missile Defense Technologies identified as the principal contractor.

The U.S. is implementing a defense strategy that prioritizes homeland security and the Indo-Pacific, recognizing China as the primary threat. Key initiatives include enhancing military capabilities in the Philippines and Taiwan, alongside a substantial arms package for Taiwan. The strategy reflects a shift in focus while maintaining a strong deterrent posture against China.

Marcus ChenSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

Iranian officials announced that all commanders of the Islamic Republic of Iran Army are currently safe and healthy. They urged the public not to believe false rumors spread by hostile media about casualties among Iranian officials, including senior members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Israeli intelligence assessed that the assassination attempts on Iranian Supreme Leader Khamenei and President Raisi by the U.S. and Israel have failed. Iranian officials confirmed that both leaders are safe, indicating the unsuccessful nature of the operation.

Yousef Pezeshkian confirmed the safety of his father, Iranian President Pezeshkian, and several senior officials on social media. He stated that assassination attempts against them have failed, ensuring their security. This information was reported on the 28th.

Ukrainian Special Systems Company opened a new factory in the UK on February 26, 2023, to produce drones for the Ukrainian military. This initiative, backed by a £200 million investment, aims to ensure a stable supply of critical equipment. The factory is located in Mildenhall and Elmsett, England, and represents a significant step in Ukraine's defense collaboration with the UK.

EU leaders agreed to a strategy to exhaust Moscow's finances and push for negotiations with Ukraine, potentially by summer 2023. Ukraine is preparing to sustain its military efforts for at least two more years, while the EU plans to provide €90 billion in loans. The report highlights the near-completion of Western weapon deliveries to Ukraine, emphasizing a shift towards increased reliance on drone technology for defense.

The Spanish Armed Forces are experiencing a severe personnel shortfall of 13,000 to 23,000 due to low salaries and promotion difficulties. From 2010 to January 2025, approximately 13,000 personnel have left the military, leading to a total of 116,739 active members as of January 1, 2025. The ideal personnel count should be between 130,000 and 140,000, indicating a significant crisis in military staffing and interest in military careers.

The French Space Command is conducting the SparteX military exercise at an airbase southeast of Toulouse, simulating various space threats. This exercise, ongoing since February 25, 2023, involves approximately 200 military and civilian personnel from France and 12 partner nations. It aims to enhance interoperability and assess the strategic significance of space in modern conflict.

Europe is undergoing a significant transformation in defense strategy, with NATO setting a target of 5% of GDP for defense spending by 2035. Poland leads NATO spending, while Germany has approved the procurement of kamikaze drones to enhance its military capabilities. NATO is also increasing operational readiness through exercises and new deployments, particularly in response to Russian threats. Five European nations are working together on drone defense systems.

Dr. Klaus WeberSat Feb 28 2026Loading...

The Israel Defense Forces issued an urgent evacuation warning to civilians near Iranian military facilities in Iran on Saturday. This warning was part of efforts to reduce civilian exposure to potential military strikes amid ongoing military escalation involving Israel, Iran, and the United States. The IDF urged immediate evacuation for safety reasons.

Dmitry Medvedev, deputy chairman of Russia’s Security Council, condemned U.S. military actions against Iran, accusing the U.S. of using diplomatic negotiations as a cover for military operations. His statements reflect Russia's alignment with criticism of U.S. actions and highlight geopolitical divisions regarding military interventions. Medvedev emphasized the insincerity of U.S. negotiations with Iran, indicating a strategic messaging approach from Moscow.