Analysis & Reports

The U.S. Armed Forces increased military production significantly in response to the Iran War, aiming for 100,000 artillery rounds monthly by 2025. The defense industry saw the entry of 10,000 new firms, enhancing innovation and competition. The U.S. demonstrated robust offensive and defensive capabilities, supported by allies, while emphasizing the importance of space operations in modern warfare.

Israeli Defense Forces struck two Hamas weapon storage facilities located in mosques in Shati and Deir al-Balah on August 24. The facilities contained dozens of rifles and other military equipment. Earlier, the IDF reported killing two Hamas militants in Deir al-Balah and stated it would continue operations to address imminent threats.

Sexual assaults among U.S. deployed troops doubled in 2025, with Poland reporting the highest number at 73 incidents. Overall military sexual assault reports decreased by 2%, but estimates suggest that many incidents remain unreported. The Pentagon's report highlights ongoing challenges in addressing sexual assault within the military, particularly in deployed settings.

FNSS unveiled the İ-ZAHA, a new unmanned amphibious vehicle, at the Teknofest in Beirut this week. The vehicle is designed for high-risk amphibious assaults and features a naval speed of 7 knots and a land speed of 70 km/h. It is equipped with a machine gun, mine clearance equipment, and advanced electronic warfare systems.

Houthi forces launched attacks on Saudi targets on August 24, including the oil tanker 'Anzan' in the Red Sea, causing a fire. They also targeted military positions in Wadi'a, destroying over 10 trucks with weapons, and conducted strikes in Kanais, resulting in multiple casualties among Saudi forces.

Julius Caesar defeated Pharnaces II of Pontus at Zela in the summer of 47 BC, with the battle lasting four to five hours. Caesar's forces, equipped with Roman javelins, successfully repelled an uphill attack by Pharnaces's scythed chariots. This swift victory was famously encapsulated in Caesar's dispatch, 'veni, vidi, vici.'

On February 24, 1991, U.S. Central Command launched a ground assault to liberate Kuwait from Iraqi forces, involving nearly a million personnel from over 30 nations. General Norman Schwarzkopf publicly criticized Saddam Hussein's military strategy during a live briefing, highlighting the coalition's operational success. The assault concluded within 100 hours, resulting in the swift defeat of the Iraqi army and the liberation of Kuwait.

The U.S. is evaluating the feasibility of rebuilding military bases in the Gulf region following Iranian attacks. The decision involves significant financial costs and strategic shifts in military deployment. U.S. forces have relocated some assets to Israel and Jordan to mitigate risks from Iranian missiles. The ongoing conflict has led to substantial damage to U.S. facilities, raising concerns among regional allies about U.S. security commitments.

The United Arab Emirates intercepted 4 ballistic missiles and 25 drones launched from Iran, resulting in operational disruptions at the Habshan gas facility. Debris from the interceptions caused one death and four injuries. This incident underscores the limitations of air defense systems in protecting critical infrastructure from economic disruption.

Ahmed Al-RashidMon Aug 24 2026Loading...

The U.S. Navy's aircraft carrier Abraham Lincoln has been deployed for over 260 days, leading to significant mental health challenges among its crew. Reports indicate low morale due to extended operations without adequate rest and concerns over living conditions. The carrier has conducted over 10,000 flight operations since its deployment to the Middle East, and the USS Washington is anticipated to take over its duties soon.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted an airstrike on the Abu Zuhur airbase in Syria last week, targeting a facility where Turkey planned to establish a military presence. U.S. officials criticized Israel's actions, suggesting they were intended to provoke Turkey amid domestic political considerations. This incident has resulted in an unusual public disagreement between the U.S. and Israel regarding military operations in the region.

On August 23, the U.S. Navy conducted vertical replenishment operations in the Middle East, utilizing an MH-60S Seahawk helicopter to supply the amphibious assault ship Boxer. Supplies were provided by the combat support ship Arctic.

The Chinese Air Force participated in joint military exercises with Belarus, Thailand, Egypt, and the UAE throughout August 2023, showcasing various aircraft types and enhancing operational capabilities. These exercises included intercontinental deployments and aimed to improve joint counter-terrorism operations and regional stability. Military experts emphasized the importance of these activities for fostering international military cooperation and demonstrating China's responsible global role.

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 542 received the Gallant Unit Citation for its actions in the Middle East from March 15 to October 7, 2025. The squadron conducted over 1,099 combat sorties, supporting various military operations including Close Air Support and Armed Overwatch. This award recognizes the squadron's significant operational impact while deployed in the U.S. Central Command area.

The United Arab Emirates has installed steel cages over fuel tanks at Abu Dhabi and near Dubai International Airport to protect against Iranian drone attacks. This installation follows a series of Iranian strikes, including a drone attack on March 16 that hit a fuel tank. The UAE's approach indicates a shift towards more cost-effective defensive measures in response to the increasing threat from drones.

Ahmed Al-RashidSun Aug 23 2026Loading...

Israel conducted an airstrike on Abu al-Duhur airbase in Syria on August 18, targeting runway and storage areas. The strike was a response to concerns over Turkish military presence in Syria. U.S. envoy Tom Barrack noted the need for a deconfliction mechanism among Israel, Turkey, and Syria, highlighting escalating tensions in the region. Syria's Foreign Minister indicated a desire to negotiate with both Israel and Turkey, reflecting a complex security dynamic.

Alexandra ReevesSun Aug 23 2026Loading...

General Jim Mattis provided critical guidance to the 1st Marine Division in Iraq 23 years ago, emphasizing the need for politeness and professionalism while being prepared for lethal action. His military career spanned significant conflicts, and he later served as Secretary of Defense before resigning in 2018. The guidance continues to influence military training and philosophy today.

As of August 21, 2023, over 750 U.S. troops have been wounded in the Iran war, with 341 injuries reported since July 7. The casualties are primarily from the Army, and 18 service members have died in the conflict, including four since July. Fighting has persisted despite a ceasefire agreement, particularly around the Persian Gulf and in Jordan.

The M4 Carbine, adopted by the U.S. Army in 1994, has been extensively used in conflicts such as Afghanistan and Iraq. It features a modular design that allows for various attachments, enhancing its versatility in combat. The M4A1 variant was developed to address performance issues observed in earlier models. The U.S. Army is now transitioning to the M8 Carbine to improve effectiveness against advanced enemy threats.

The U.S. Air Force continues to operate the F-22 Raptor, the best air superiority fighter, since its last delivery on May 2, 2012. The aircraft is undergoing significant upgrades, including the AIM-260 missile, to enhance its capabilities. Recent operational history includes escorting strike packages over Iran and achieving its first air-to-air kill in February 2023. The F-22's unique features, such as supercruise and advanced stealth, maintain its superiority over rival aircraft.