Analysis & Reports

Belgium Naval & Robotics delivered the first mine countermeasures (MCM) toolbox to the Belgian Navy and Royal Netherlands Navy in Zeebrugge. This delivery initiates the system integration and commissioning phase aboard the vessel, enhancing the navies' capabilities in mine warfare. The toolbox includes unmanned systems for remote mine detection and neutralization, contributing to the operational readiness of the Oostende MCM vessel.

SIATT Engenharia and the Brazilian Navy signed a Memorandum of Understanding on February 23, 2026, in Rio de Janeiro to collaborate on the development of two Air-to-Surface Anti-Ship Missile systems, known as MARSUP. This initiative aims to enhance Brazil's Naval Power by creating domestically developed missile systems, leveraging technology from the existing MANSUP program.

The first 09V type nuclear-powered cruise missile submarine was revealed at a shipyard in Liaoning Province on March 3, 2026. This submarine features advanced capabilities, including an X-shaped tail and 18 vertical launch system cells, allowing it to carry multiple YJ-18 anti-ship cruise missiles. It is expected to enter service by 2029, marking a significant enhancement in China's underwater combat capabilities.

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The first 09V class nuclear submarine of the People's Liberation Army Navy was spotted in launch preparation at a shipyard in Liaoning, China, on February 9, 2026. This submarine features advanced technology, including an X-shaped tail rudder and 18 vertical launch system units, capable of launching YJ-18 and potentially YJ-19 missiles. Its development marks a significant enhancement in China's underwater combat capabilities, prompting the U.S. to increase its defense budget for monitoring Chinese military activities.

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The CEAM received the SAMP/T NG air defense system on February 20, 2026, marking a significant enhancement in capabilities against modern aerial threats. This system, developed through collaboration between France and Italy, will undergo operational evaluations and integration into the French Armed Forces. It is designed to intercept high-altitude and high-speed targets, including hypersonic missiles, and will improve coordination with friendly aircraft.

Iran launched a massive retaliatory strike on March 1, 2026, targeting Gulf Cooperation Council states, including Dubai, Manama, and Doha, with 165 ballistic missiles, 2 cruise missiles, and 541 drones. The attacks resulted in significant damage to civilian infrastructure and military bases, with casualties reported in Kuwait and Bahrain. This unprecedented assault highlights vulnerabilities in regional defense systems and escalates tensions in the Gulf.

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Teledyne Marine launched the SeaBat T51 Integrated Dual Head systems at Oceanology International, enhancing survey efficiency for marine environments. The new systems support both surface vessels and ROVs, allowing for high-resolution seabed mapping. The Integrated Dual Head functionality improves data density and coverage while simplifying installation and operation.

U.S. Central Command conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets on March 1, 2023, utilizing suicide drones and other advanced weaponry. The newly formed Scorpion Strike Task Force executed these operations, marking the first use of suicide drones in combat by U.S. forces. The strikes included Tomahawk cruise missiles and F-18 and F-35 fighter jets, showcasing a significant escalation in U.S. military capabilities in the region.

The U.S. is preparing to significantly increase military strikes against Iran within the next 24 hours, targeting its missile production, drone capabilities, and naval forces. Secretary of State Rubio indicated that the most intense phase of attacks has not yet occurred, following an initial round that weakened Iran's defenses.

Iran is actively developing advanced missile systems and drones in response to threats from Israel and the U.S. The Iranian Armed Forces showcased several missile types, including the 'Conqueror' hypersonic missile and the 'Pave' cruise missile, which can change targets mid-flight. Additionally, Iran has become a major producer of drones, exemplified by the 'Witness-136' drone, capable of long-range strikes.

Iran launched missile and drone attacks on the U.S. military base in Al Udeid, Qatar, on March 2, 2023, marking the third consecutive day of assaults. The attacks also impacted local energy facilities, prompting Qatar to suspend liquefied natural gas production. In response, Qatar declared a national emergency, advising citizens to remain indoors as public activities were halted.

On January 24, 2026, the Chinese Ministry of Defense announced the investigation of Vice Chairman Zhang Youxia and Chief of Joint Staff Liu Zhenli, marking a significant purge within the People's Liberation Army (PLA). This unprecedented action has led to the dismissal or disappearance of over 100 senior officers since 2022, severely impacting military readiness, particularly in the Eastern Theater Command. Despite this turmoil, the PLA continues to advance its military modernization efforts, including the accelerated production of stealth fighters and hypersonic missiles.

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The U.S. is preparing to significantly increase military attacks on Iran within the next 24 hours, targeting its missile production capabilities, drones, and naval forces. This follows a previous round of strikes that reportedly weakened Iran's defenses. President Trump has indicated that the military actions may last 4 to 5 weeks, and the Pentagon has not yet commented on the situation.

Iranian drones attacked the Minhad Air Base in the United Arab Emirates last weekend, confirmed by Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles. All personnel at the base, which has housed Australian forces since 2003, were reported safe. This incident follows a recent escalation in tensions following U.S. and Israeli strikes against Iran.

The Islamic Resistance Organization conducted 28 attacks using dozens of missiles and drones against US units in Iraq and Kuwait on March 2. These attacks were claimed to be in response to US military presence in the region.

The U.S. Air Force's F-15 fighter jet continues to demonstrate its capabilities and relevance in modern combat, particularly following recent incidents in Kuwait. The F-15's upgrades, including the F-15EX, enhance its operational effectiveness against advanced air defenses. Kuwait's advanced air defense systems, including Patriot and NASAMS, were involved in a recent friendly fire incident, underscoring the importance of clear identification protocols in military operations.

The U.S. Navy expended approximately 400 Tomahawk missiles during the first three days of Operation Epic Fury in Iran, raising concerns about its missile inventory and readiness for potential conflicts in the Taiwan Strait. This unsustainable expenditure could leave the U.S. vulnerable if another conflict arises, as current production rates cannot replenish the used missiles quickly enough. Allies, including Japan and Australia, may also experience delays in receiving their Tomahawk missile orders.

The Israeli Air Force conducted a significant offensive operation against Iranian missile arrays and command nodes in 2026, deploying 200 jets including F-35I Adirs, F-15I Ra'ams, and F-16I Soufas. This operation highlights the IAF's advanced capabilities and strategic importance in the ongoing conflict with Iran. The IAF is recognized as one of the world's top air forces, with a total of 531 active aircraft.

Qatar's air force shot down 2 Iranian Su-24 bombers and intercepted 7 ballistic missiles and 5 drones on March 2. These aircraft and missiles were attempting to attack targets within Qatar. The operation highlights Qatar's defensive capabilities against aerial threats.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched the 12th round of Operation 'True Commitment-4' on March 2, attacking U.S. military targets in Kuwait, the UAE, Bahrain, and the Strait of Hormuz with 26 drones and 5 ballistic missiles. The U.S. base in Kuwait was struck by 12 drones, while the command center at the UAE base was hit by 6 drones and 5 missiles. A tanker named 'Athens Nova' caught fire after being hit by a drone in the Strait of Hormuz.