Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

Ukrainian Long-Range Drones in September 2026 Close the Sky Over Russia and Break the Logic of the Rear

Ukrainian Long-Range Drones in September 2026 Close the Sky Over Russia and Break the Logic of the Rear

Strategic AssessmentMilitary OperationsLogisticsStrategic

Ukrainian long-range drones are impacting Russian airspace and logistics in September 2026, creating uncertainty in the rear areas of Russia. President Zelensky has advised airlines to evaluate risks for flights over Russia, while the Russian military is reallocating air defense resources in response to these threats. This shift indicates that the traditional concept of strategic depth for Russia is becoming increasingly costly and uncertain.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovWed Sep 02 2026

Russia claims it will retaliate against Ukraine's energy facilities.

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

Russia's missile and drone forces are preparing to strike Ukrainian energy facilities in response to ongoing attacks on Russian civilian infrastructure. This warning was issued by the Russian Ministry of Defense on August 30, 2023, coinciding with intensified drone strikes in Kyiv and surrounding areas. The situation has led to significant damage to Ukraine's energy infrastructure, raising concerns as winter approaches.

Source: Reference NewsWed Sep 02 2026
Makarov. Image Credit: Creative Commons.

I Am a Former US Air Force Security Force Officer and Firearms Expert: The Makarov Pistol Is No Joke and Deserves Your Respect

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

The Makarov pistol, produced in approximately 5 million units since its adoption by the Soviet Armed Forces in 1951, is discussed for its reliability and historical significance. It is no longer the standard-issue sidearm for the Russian Army, which has transitioned to the MP-443 Grach, while the Ukrainian Army has adopted the Fort-14TP. Despite these changes, the Makarov remains prevalent among soldiers in both countries.

Source: 19FortyFiveTue Sep 01 2026

China, Russia, and Mongolia to Hold "Border Defense Cooperation-2026" Joint Exercise

Military OperationsTactical

China, Russia, and Mongolia will conduct a joint military exercise named 'Border Cooperation-2026' in early September 2026. The exercise focuses on preventing and combating reconnaissance and sabotage activities in border areas. This marks the second iteration of this joint training series, aimed at strengthening strategic trust and enhancing border cooperation among the three nations.

Source: Global TimesTue Sep 01 2026

China's Mass-Produced New Electronic Warfare System Against "Starlink"

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Russia has begun mass production of the 'Dome' electronic warfare system to counter the Starlink satellite communications, effectively jamming its operations. This system has proven effective in military operations, causing significant difficulties for Ukrainian forces. The production was confirmed by sources within the Russian Defense Industry on September 1, 2023.

Source: Reference NewsTue Sep 01 2026
MiG-25 Foxbat

A Russian MiG-25 Foxbat Could Hit Could Hit Mach 2.83 and Broke the Record at 123,523 Feet in the Sky

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

On August 31, 1977, a Soviet MiG-25 Foxbat, piloted by Alexandr Fedetov, set a world record by reaching an altitude of 123,523 feet over Moscow Oblast. This achievement marked the highest absolute altitude for a jet aircraft on its own power, showcasing the MiG-25's capabilities. Fedetov, a distinguished test pilot, had previously set numerous aviation records throughout his career.

Source: 19FortyFiveMon Aug 31 2026
"130 UAVs in One Night and Strikes on Yeisk and Kirishi Change the Russian Rear in 2026"

"130 UAVs in One Night and Strikes on Yeisk and Kirishi Change the Russian Rear in 2026"

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

Ukrainian forces conducted airstrikes on August 30, 2026, targeting Russian military infrastructure in Yeysk, Millerovo, and Kirish. The attacks involved 130 drones and 2 ballistic missiles, aiming to disrupt Russian logistics and military operations. Key assets, including radar systems and ammunition depots, were hit, reflecting a strategic shift in Ukraine's approach to the conflict.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon Aug 31 2026
Dassault Mirage 2000-5

S-400: Russia’s Air Defense Shield That the Ukraine War Proves Has Quite a Few Holes

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Ukrainian forces destroyed four S-400 launchers at Gelendzhik on August 9, 2023, and burned two more in Crimea the following day. The S-400 system, which has been operational since 2007, has faced significant challenges in the ongoing conflict, with Ukraine targeting its launchers and command vehicles effectively. Despite its capabilities, the system has not been able to prevent attacks on key locations in occupied territories.

Source: 19FortyFiveMon Aug 31 2026
Russia details roles for its two-seat Su-57D fighter

Russia details roles for its two-seat Su-57D fighter

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Rostec revealed details about the two-seat Su-57D fighter, designed for pilot training and as a command platform for drones. The aircraft is currently in flight testing and is part of Russia's sixth-generation technology initiative. India is considering the two-seat variant for potential procurement, leveraging its experience with the Su-30MKI. The prototype was rebuilt from a previous model, and Rostec has not provided a production timeline or final designation for the aircraft.

Source: Defense BlogMon Aug 31 2026
Russia shows off new laser weapon against drones

Russia shows off new laser weapon against drones

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

A Russian laser weapon system is reportedly engaging and destroying Ukrainian drones in southwestern Russia. The system, described as a containerized platform, combines a laser weapon with targeting and guidance capabilities. Claims of its effectiveness and the number of drones destroyed remain unverified, and a second-generation version is in development.

Source: Defense BlogMon Aug 31 2026
Ukraine reveals new details on Russia’s Zircon missile

Ukraine reveals new details on Russia’s Zircon missile

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Ukraine's Defense Intelligence agency (HUR) revealed that Russia's Zircon missile is a ballistic missile, not a hypersonic cruise missile. The agency published detailed information about the missile's components and production, noting an increase in launches from approximately 40 to 230 missiles. HUR also reported that Russia has launched around 40 Zircon missiles this year, including significant attacks on Kyiv.

Source: Defense BlogMon Aug 31 2026

Russian "White Wax Tree" - M Nuclear Submarine: NATO's "Underwater Nightmare"

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Russia is deploying the 'Borey-M' class nuclear submarines, with the first submarine, 'Kazan', already on combat duty. These submarines are equipped with advanced Kalibr and Zircon missiles, capable of striking targets at ranges of up to 2500 kilometers. Russia plans to replace its older submarines with 30 new 'Borey-M' class submarines, enhancing its naval capabilities significantly.

Source: Reference NewsMon Aug 31 2026
The launch of "Yars" from Plesetsk to 6700 km — Russia's nuclear ritual in a year of budget crisis

The launch of "Yars" from Plesetsk to 6700 km — Russia's nuclear ritual in a year of budget crisis

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

On August 28, 2023, the Russian Strategic Nuclear Forces successfully launched an RS-24 Yars intercontinental ballistic missile from Plesetsk, reaching the Kura test range in Kamchatka. This event is part of a series of routine missile tests, occurring amidst heightened tensions with Ukraine and financial constraints within the Russian government. The launch underscores Russia's commitment to maintaining its strategic military readiness despite economic challenges.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSun Aug 30 2026
The "Wave Dome Guarantee" System Went into Series Production and Exposed the Crisis of Russia's Rear Air Defense

The "Wave Dome Guarantee" System Went into Series Production and Exposed the Crisis of Russia's Rear Air Defense

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

The Russian Armed Forces launched the 'Volna Kupol Garant' electronic warfare system into series production in August 2026 to counter Ukrainian drone operations. This system aims to disrupt Starlink communications by targeting satellites, primarily protecting stationary military assets. However, its effectiveness against mobile targets is limited, reflecting a shift in Russian military strategy in response to increased Ukrainian strikes on critical infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat Aug 29 2026

Border city in Russia hit by shelling and drone attacks, 3 killed

Military OperationsCasualties & LossesOperational

Ukrainian Armed Forces conducted artillery and drone strikes on residential areas in Shebekino, Belgorod Oblast, on the 29th, resulting in three fatalities and seven injuries. The strikes involved three drones, with one causing a fire in an abandoned garage. The Ukrainian side has not responded to the incident.

Source: Global TimesSat Aug 29 2026

Russia Begins Mass Production of "Starlink" Jammers

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Russia has begun mass production of the 'Bohun Protection' electronic warfare system, designed to effectively counter the Starlink satellite communications. This system can disrupt Starlink operations over large areas and is seen as a significant tool in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The Russian defense industry claims the system has been proven effective and is now ready for global distribution.

Source: Reference NewsSat Aug 29 2026
General Patton Portrait

81 Years Later, US Army General Patton’s 5-Word Order to Save 1,200 Horses Is Still the Strangest Thing He Ever Approved

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

In late April 1945, the US 2nd Cavalry Group conducted Operation Cowboy to rescue over 1,200 horses from Hostau, Czechoslovakia, as Soviet forces advanced. Under General Patton's orders, American and surrendered German soldiers fought together against Waffen-SS units to secure the horses, including valuable Lipizzaners. The operation exemplified a rare collaboration between American and German forces during WWII.

Source: 19FortyFiveFri Aug 28 2026

Russia claims to strike Ukrainian military warehouses and ports; Ukraine claims to attack Russian oil refineries.

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

Russian forces struck military warehouses in Kyiv and Odesa using attack drones on August 28, 2023, while Ukrainian forces attacked a Russian oil refinery in Yaroslavl and targeted Russian assets in the Black Sea. Over the past week, Russian troops gained control of 7 settlements in Sumy, Donetsk, and Zaporizhzhia, and also engaged a Ukrainian naval patrol boat and other vessels.

Source: Global TimesFri Aug 28 2026
Russian Foxtrot-class Submarine

75 Were Built and 7 Are Left: The Soviet Submarine That Nearly Started Nuclear War Ended as Scrap in Mexico

Military OperationsPolitical-MilitaryOperational

The Foxtrot-class submarines, built from 1957 to 1983, served in multiple navies and played a significant role during the Cold War, notably during the Cuban Missile Crisis when B-59 nearly launched a nuclear torpedo. As of 2026, only seven of the original seventy-five submarines remain, primarily as museum exhibits.

Source: 19FortyFiveFri Aug 28 2026
Putin's Decree on "Temporary Management" of Oil Refineries — Nationalization Under the Pretext of Protection from Drones

Putin's Decree on "Temporary Management" of Oil Refineries — Nationalization Under the Pretext of Protection from Drones

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

Ukrainian drones attacked the Yaroslavl Oil Refinery on August 28, 2026, marking the eighth strike this year. In response, the Russian government issued a decree allowing temporary management of critical infrastructure due to insufficient protection against drone threats. This decree has raised concerns about its vague criteria and the implications for Russian businesses.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri Aug 28 2026