Analysis & Reports

The U.S. submarine Charlotte sank the Iranian frigate Dena in the Indian Ocean on March 4 by firing two torpedoes. This event marks the first instance of a U.S. submarine sinking an enemy vessel with a torpedo since World War II. Adm. Daryl Caudle highlighted the Navy's quick adaptation to operational needs, emphasizing the importance of tailored forces in modern warfare.

Since February 28, 415 U.S. military personnel have been injured during operations against Iran. The injuries include 271 from the Army, 63 from the Navy, 19 from the Marine Corps, and 62 from the Air Force. The death toll stands at 13, with casualties occurring in Kuwait and Saudi Arabia, including deaths from a tanker crash.

Russian forces conducted airstrikes on Ukrainian defense industrial facilities and transportation infrastructure over the past 24 hours. In response, Ukrainian forces attacked a Russian oil refinery in Krasnodar Krai. The Ukrainian military reported 206 combat incidents in frontline areas during the same period.

An ammunition explosion occurred at a Japan Ground Self-Defense Force training facility in Oita Prefecture on the morning of the 21st, resulting in the deaths of 3 personnel. The explosion was attributed to an abnormal detonation of a shell during tank firing exercises.

Southern Theater Command Navy conducted comprehensive training exercises in the South China Sea, involving multiple naval vessels. The fleet responded to simulated enemy threats, with radar systems detecting fast-moving targets. Main guns were used to successfully destroy surface targets, enhancing the combat capabilities and coordination of the participating vessels.

In April 2026, the People's Liberation Army underwent significant purges, impacting military command structures. Concurrently, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force transited the Taiwan Strait, prompting a strong response from China, which released footage and issued warnings against external interference. Additionally, Chinese maritime survey activities were confirmed in Japan's exclusive economic zone, indicating ongoing military intentions in the region. Japan faces dual challenges from the energy crisis in the Holmuz Strait and rising military tensions in East Asia.

Tanaka TakashiTue Apr 21 2026Loading...

In 1999, the HNLMS Walrus, a Dutch diesel-electric submarine, successfully sank the USS Theodore Roosevelt during a NATO exercise in the Atlantic Ocean. This incident highlighted the vulnerability of U.S. Navy aircraft carriers to stealthy attacks from older submarine technology. Despite the advanced capabilities of U.S. carriers, they remain susceptible to ambushes by diesel-electric submarines, which can exploit their quieter operations and strategic positioning.

Napoleon Bonaparte remarked on the motivation of soldiers during his exile, emphasizing their willingness to fight for recognition. This observation was made aboard HMS Bellerophon on July 15, 1815, after his defeat at Waterloo. The quote highlights the importance of military honors, such as the Legion of Honor, which he established to reward service and bravery.

A Russian Tu-22M3 bomber completed a planned flight over the Baltic Sea on October 20, lasting over 4 hours, escorted by Su-35 fighter jets. The Russian Aerospace Forces regularly conduct missions in neutral airspace over the Arctic, North Atlantic, Pacific, Baltic Sea, and Black Sea, adhering to international airspace regulations.

The U.S. Navy showcased the F-35C fighter at the Lakeland Airshow on March 19, 2026, highlighting its advanced capabilities. The aircraft features a fly-by-wire system, allowing for automated stability and control, and is designed for stealth operations with internal weapon storage. Pilots manage missions using a data-centric cockpit, emphasizing the transition from traditional piloting to systems management.

U.S. President Trump declared that the blockade on Iran will remain until a deal is reached. The U.S. military has enforced a blockade on ships at Iranian ports since April 13, effectively halting Iran's maritime trade. In response, Iran has asserted control over the Strait of Hormuz and is open to negotiations, with Pakistan mediating efforts to lift the blockade.

Iran submitted a detailed report to international organizations regarding the attack on the Minaab primary school, which occurred on February 28 and resulted in over 100 casualties. The Iranian Judiciary stated it will pursue the perpetrators of this war crime until they are brought to justice.

Israeli Defense Forces killed several Hezbollah members in southern Lebanon on April 20, 2023, claiming they violated a ceasefire agreement. The ceasefire had been in effect since April 17, and Israeli forces continue to maintain a presence in the region to address Hezbollah activities.

At least 26 Iranian shipping vessels breached the U.S. military blockade in the Hormuz Strait between April 13 and 20, 2023. This included 11 oil tankers carrying Iranian goods. The U.S. Navy intercepted an Iranian cargo ship on April 19, while Iran announced the opening of the Strait for commercial vessels on April 17, asserting control over the passage due to the ongoing blockade.

On April 3, an F-15E Strike Eagle was shot down over southwestern Iran during Operation Epic Fury. Two crew members ejected, with one rescued the same day and the other unaccounted for, prompting a significant rescue operation involving 155 aircraft. Lawmakers criticized the betting on the crew member's rescue on Polymarket, raising ethical and national security concerns.

The U.S. Air Force announced that the A-10C Thunderbolt II will continue to operate until 2030, despite previous plans for retirement. In March 2023, A-10s engaged in air support operations in the Strait of Hormuz, attacking Iranian speedboats and participating in a rescue mission for a downed pilot. This decision aims to preserve combat power while the Defense Industrial Base increases aircraft production.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog's service through 2030, maintaining 54 aircraft until 2029 and reducing to 36 by 2030. This decision supports ongoing military operations in Iran, including close air support in the Strait of Hormuz. The announcement follows a recent incident where an A-10 was involved in a search and rescue mission for downed F-15E airmen.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog's service through 2030, reversing a previous retirement timeline. This decision includes retaining 54 A-10s until 2029, with a reduction to 36 by 2030. The aircraft have been actively involved in operations in Iran, including close air support in the Strait of Hormuz and a recent search and rescue mission.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog's service through 2030, reversing its planned retirement in 2029. This decision aims to preserve combat power amid increased A-10 involvement in Operation Epic Fury in Iran, where they provided close air support and participated in a search and rescue mission for downed F-15E airmen. The fiscal 2026 NDAA mandates that 103 A-10s remain operational until September 2026.

The U.S. Air Force announced the extension of the A-10 Warthog's service through 2030, reversing its planned retirement in 2029. This decision comes amid increased operational involvement of A-10s in Iran, particularly during Operation Epic Fury. The A-10s have been providing close air support in the Strait of Hormuz and participated in a recent rescue mission for downed F-15E airmen.