Analysis & Reports

The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps intercepted and destroyed an MQ-1 drone in the Strait of Hormuz on September 15. This operation was conducted by the IRGC Aerospace Force, as confirmed by their official statement.

Houthi forces launched an attack on civilian targets in Saudi Arabia on September 14, using ballistic missiles and drones. The strikes resulted in 13 civilian injuries and targeted cities including Khamis Mushait, Abha, and Taif. The Saudi-led coalition condemned the attacks and stated they would respond decisively.

On the evening of the 14th, two Iranian fishing boats were attacked by enemy drones near Korgun Port in the Persian Gulf, resulting in several missing fishermen. Search and rescue operations have commenced following the incident, as reported by the Deputy Governor of Hormozgan Province.

In early March 2026, U.S. Air Force B-52H bombers conducted airstrikes on ballistic missile production sites and command nodes in Iran as part of Operation Epic Fury. This marked the first time B-52s directly struck targets inside Iran during the current conflict. The operation aims to degrade Iran's missile capabilities.

Iran's Foreign Ministry announced the postponement of a meeting on maritime routes in the Strait of Hormuz at Saudi Arabia's request. This comes amid rising tensions and attacks on shipping routes in the region, impacting global energy supply. Oman is working to facilitate dialogue for regional stability, while Saudi Arabia has intensified military operations in Yemen, conducting over 300 airstrikes in recent days.

The U.S. Air Force will establish a new career field for point defense airmen and develop a point defense weapons system to enhance security at air bases worldwide within two years. This initiative follows recent Iranian attacks on U.S. bases, highlighting the need for improved defenses against evolving threats. Senior Master Sgt. Andrew Lewis and Senior Master Sgt. Brandon Spears have been appointed as the first field managers for this new career track.

On April 3, 2023, a U.S. Air Force F-15E was shot down over Iran, prompting a large-scale rescue operation involving almost 100 troops. The weapons system officer, known as 'Bravo', was seriously injured during his descent and spent over a day evading capture before being rescued by U.S. special operations forces. The operation included the use of multiple aircraft and resulted in the destruction of several U.S. assets left behind.

The Russian Armed Forces displayed new air-launched weapons, including the Sukhoi Su-57E and various missiles, at EIAS 2026. The S-71K cruise missile, capable of delivering a 250 kg payload, and the S-71M kamikaze drone with a 500 km range were highlighted. The Export Banderol (Dan-T) was also presented as a new weapon for combat use. These developments reflect ongoing military advancements amid the conflict in Ukraine.

Saudi Arabia shut down the East-West Pipeline on September 14, 2026, following drone attacks that originated from Iraqi territory. The incident exposed vulnerabilities in Gulf energy defense, potentially threatening 4% of global oil supply. Iraq reported finding suspected launch platforms near its border with Iran, raising security concerns about the region's stability.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Sep 14 2026Loading...

Debris from a Chinese-made DF-15A ballistic missile was found in the Raghwan district of Marib Governorate, Yemen, indicating potential missile usage by Saudi Arabia for the first time. This discovery coincides with escalating fighting in the region between Houthi forces and Yemen's internationally recognized government. Analysts suggest the missile may have been fired by Saudi Arabia, although this has not been officially confirmed.

The U.S. military is evaluating its presence in the Middle East following significant Iranian attacks, which have resulted in 18 U.S. soldier fatalities. Discussions include potentially relocating bases underground to enhance security and reducing troop numbers. The Pentagon is also considering not repairing severely damaged facilities and shifting some reconnaissance operations away from permanent military personnel in the region.

An Eitan wheeled armored personnel carrier equipped with the Hetz Dorban active protection system was photographed during a training exercise in Israel in August 2026. This system, also known as Iron Fist, is designed to counter threats such as anti-tank rounds and drones. The Eitan is operated by the IDF's 933rd Nahal Infantry Brigade, which has been using it since May 2023.

Houthi forces attacked the King Khalid Air Base in Khamis Mushait, Saudi Arabia, on September 14, in retaliation for over 300 airstrikes conducted by Saudi forces in the preceding five days. The Houthi spokesperson stated that dozens of ballistic missiles and drones were used, and all strikes were reported to have accurately hit their targets, inflicting significant damage on the base.

Houthi forces launched an attack on a Saudi airbase on September 14, firing dozens of ballistic missiles and drones. This action represents a significant military operation by the Houthis against Saudi Arabia.

Israeli forces destroyed a Hezbollah underground base at Ali Tahir Ridge in southern Lebanon on September 11, 2023. The operation was confirmed by Israeli officials, who stated it eliminated Hezbollah's capability to conduct attacks against Israel. The facility housed Iranian-made missiles and other weaponry, and explosions were reported in the vicinity, felt as far as Beirut.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps shot down a U.S. MQ-1 drone over the Strait of Hormuz on September 14. This incident reflects escalating military tensions in the region, as the IRGC confirmed the action through its public relations department.

In April 2026, the U.S. Air Force decided to maintain three squadrons of A-10 Warthogs until 2030, reversing earlier plans for an early phase-out. The A-10 was effectively deployed for aerial counter-drone and anti-missile defense missions over Gulf Arab states, utilizing its 30mm GAU-8/A Avenger cannon against Iranian threats. This decision reflects the aircraft's proven effectiveness in various military operations, particularly in recent conflicts.

Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) withdrew several kilometers from the Al-Tahira Heights to Bofort Ridge on September 13, 2023, and plan to further reduce their troop presence in southern Lebanon. Despite the withdrawal, the IDF conducted airstrikes in the region to prevent Hezbollah from re-entering. The IDF destroyed underground facilities belonging to Hezbollah using over 1100 tons of explosives.

Saudi Arabia conducted 58 airstrikes across six provinces in Yemen within the last 24 hours, utilizing F-15 fighter jets. The airstrikes affected areas including Taiz, Lahij, Jawf, Saada, Hajjah, and Bayda. The Houthi forces have intensified their offensive against the Yemeni government, claiming significant territorial gains since early September.

Yemeni government forces reported approximately 2000 casualties in ongoing clashes with Houthi fighters in western coastal areas from August 9 to September 10, 2023. Houthi forces suffered over 1000 deaths and thousands of injuries. The conflict escalated following Houthi missile and drone attacks, extending from Hodeidah to Taiz.