Analysis & Reports
AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources
Iran’s ‘Midget’ Submarines are the Great Unknown for the U.S. Navy
The Islamic Republic of Iran Navy suffered significant losses during Operation Epic Fury, with all 11 surface warships destroyed. The Strait of Hormuz has experienced a drastic reduction in shipping traffic due to threats from Iranian forces. Kilo-Class and midget submarines remain a concern for maritime security, prompting the U.S. to initiate Operation Prosperity Guardian to safeguard navigation. President Trump introduced a maritime insurance scheme to support shipping in the region.
U.S. Central Command: First Actual Combat Use of Long-Range Precision Strike Missiles
On March 4, U.S. Central Command announced the first operational use of the Precision Strike Missile (PrSM) in military actions against Iran, enhancing the U.S. military's deep strike capabilities. The PrSM is a new generation ground-to-ground precision strike weapon system with a range exceeding 499 kilometers.
Germany's Defense Spending Surge Reshapes European Security Architecture
Germany is set to increase its defense budget to €108.2 billion by 2026, surpassing the combined military spending of Britain and France. This shift is reshaping European security dynamics amid concerns over Russian aggression. The German government has reformed borrowing limits to facilitate sustained military investment, while Rheinmetall expands its defense capabilities across Europe. NATO's new spending target of 5% of GDP by 2035 further highlights the changing landscape of European defense.
Alexandra ReevesWed Mar 04 2026Loading...
The US Air Force just used its oldest bomber to attack Iran
U.S. Air Force conducted airstrikes in Iran, targeting ballistic missile facilities and command-and-control infrastructure as part of Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28, 2023. Over 2,000 targets have been hit, utilizing B-1B Lancer and B-52H Stratofortress bombers. These actions have established local air superiority, enhancing the protection of U.S. forces in the region.
The US Air Force just used its oldest bomber to attack Iran
U.S. Air Force conducted airstrikes in Iran targeting ballistic missile facilities and command-and-control infrastructure as part of Operation Epic Fury, which began on February 28, 2023. Over 2,000 targets have been hit, including more than 20 Iranian naval vessels. The B-1B Lancer and B-52H Stratofortress bombers were deployed in these operations, establishing local air superiority for U.S. forces.
► Strategic acquisition in the field of uncrewed and autonomous systems: Rheinmetall to gain majority stake in DOK-ING
Rheinmetall signed a contract in Zagreb to acquire a 51% stake in Croatian uncrewed systems provider DOK-ING. This acquisition, subject to regulatory approval, aims to enhance Rheinmetall's capabilities in uncrewed military applications and establish a foothold in Croatia. DOK-ING will maintain its operations and management team, focusing on developing uncrewed systems for combat support and mine clearance.
Iran’s F-14 Tomcat Fighters Were Never Designed to Fight in 2026 or Against Stealth F-22 or F-35
Iran's F-14 Tomcat fleet is currently under pressure from U.S.-Israeli air superiority during Operation Epic Fury in March 2026. The fleet, consisting of 41 F-14D/E/RF airframes, has a historical kill ratio of 130-4 from the Iran-Iraq War. Five F-14s were previously destroyed in Israeli airstrikes, but no new losses have been reported in the ongoing conflict.
The B-2 Spirit Stealth Bomber Can Now Drop ‘Quicksink’ Munitions on Enemy Warships
The U.S. Air Force's B-2 Spirit stealth bombers are now capable of deploying modified JDAMs equipped with Weapon Open Systems Architecture (WOSA) seekers for maritime strikes. This new Quicksink capability enhances the B-2's operational role, allowing it to effectively target moving naval vessels. The program aims to provide a cost-effective alternative to traditional anti-ship missiles, supporting Navy operations in contested maritime environments.
Israeli F-35 notches first kill of a manned fighter in downing of Iranian Yak-130
An Israeli F-35I fighter jet shot down an Iranian Yak-130 over Tehran during a brief air combat. This incident marks the first kill of a manned fighter jet by an F-35. The engagement occurred amid the ongoing 'Epic Fury' military operation, which involves joint U.S.-Israeli strikes against military targets in Iran. The Israeli Air Force has conducted around 1,600 raids into Iran since the operation began on February 28, 2023.
Israeli F-35 notches first kill of a manned fighter in downing of Iranian Yak-130
An Israeli F-35I fighter jet shot down an Iranian Yak-130 over Tehran during a brief air combat on February 28, 2023. This incident marks the first kill of a manned fighter jet by an F-35. The action occurred amid the ongoing 'Epic Fury' military operation, where the Israeli Air Force has conducted extensive airstrikes against military targets in Iran.
► ZVS holding from the CSG Group and EURENCO establish joint venture in Slovakia to build new MACS artillery propellant charge plant
EURENCO and ZVS holding signed a joint memorandum on 4 March 2026 to establish a manufacturing facility for Modular Artillery Charge Systems (MACS) in Strážske, eastern Slovakia. The project, with an investment of around EUR 300 million, aims to create hundreds of jobs and enhance the European defense industry. Production is expected to start in 2028, contributing significantly to artillery ammunition supply chains.
Forget 100 Bombers: 225 Stealth B-21 Raiders Is Exactly What the U.S. Air Force Needs
The U.S. Air Force evaluated the necessity of expanding its fleet of stealth bombers, concluding that 225 B-21 Raiders are essential to deter potential conflicts with China and Russia. The current fleet of 19 B-2 Spirits is deemed inadequate for high-intensity warfare. The B-21 Raider, designed for advanced threat environments, is set to replace the aging B-2 and enhance U.S. military capabilities.
Russia's Adaptive Strategy in 2026: From Positional Warfare to Systemic Pressure on European Security
Ukrainian forces captured more territory in February 2026, reversing previous Russian gains. Russia is adapting its military strategy, shifting targeting from energy to logistics and water infrastructure. The development of a modernized Shahed-136 drone enhances Russia's long-range strike capabilities. European security architecture is evolving to address these multifaceted threats, with Ukraine integrating into European defense systems.
Dmitri VolkovWed Mar 04 2026Loading...Iran and Hezbollah Coordinate Attacks on Central Israel
Hezbollah launched five rockets towards Central Israel on March 4 during an Iranian ballistic missile attack. Air raid sirens were activated across multiple locations in Central Israel, marking the first coordinated military action between Iran and Hezbollah in the ongoing conflict.
Iran continues to launch missiles and drones to strike U.S. and Israeli targets.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched missile and drone strikes against U.S. and Israeli targets on October 4, including over 40 missiles and 230 drones. Attacks were reported in Tehran, Bushehr, and southern cities like Abadan and Shiraz, with significant damage to military and civilian infrastructure. The IRGC confirmed strikes on U.S. naval vessels in the Indian Ocean.
China fields Type 96A tanks equipped with APS
Chinese armored units have been observed transporting Type 96A main battle tanks equipped with the GL-6 active protection system. This development suggests a shift towards enhancing the survivability of existing armored vehicles within the People's Liberation Army. The tanks were seen being moved, likely in connection with military exercises, indicating their operational status.
Gulf Security Architecture Faces Existential Test as Iran Launches Unprecedented Regional Assault
Iran launched a massive assault involving 174 ballistic missiles and 689 drones against the UAE and other GCC states from February 28 to March 2, 2026. The attacks resulted in significant damage to civilian infrastructure and military targets, prompting a unified condemnation from Gulf capitals. The crisis has raised questions about the effectiveness of US military presence in the region and the future of Gulf security architecture.
Ahmed Al-RashidWed Mar 04 2026Loading...
India signs $238M deal with Russia for shipborne missiles
India's Ministry of Defence signed a $238 million contract with Russia on March 3, 2024, to procure ship-based vertical launch surface-to-air missiles for the Indian Navy's Shtil-1 air defense system. The deal will supply missiles for four frigates, enhancing their capability to counter aerial threats. This acquisition is part of India's broader strategy to modernize its naval forces and maintain a capable blue-water navy.
Airbus selected by the European Defence Agency to expand the capabilities of its Capa-X drone
Airbus Helicopters was selected by the European Defence Agency on 04 March 2026 to develop a hybrid uncrewed aircraft under the Multi Mission Unmanned Aircraft System (M2UAS) project. The initiative, with a budget of approximately €1.1 million, aims to enhance the capabilities of the Capa-X drone for various military missions. The first phase will analyze current and future military needs and technological challenges to optimize the drone's versatility and efficiency.
Pending tanker purchase spotlights choice for Poland: buy European or US?
Poland is advancing plans to purchase Airbus A330 MRTT aircraft for its Air Force, potentially funded by EU loans. The government has allocated PLN 200.1 billion for defense in 2025, with Prime Minister Tusk advocating for the SAFE loan program to enhance military capabilities. However, opposition figures warn that reliance on EU funding may compromise ties with US defense manufacturers, emphasizing the need for interoperability with NATO.
