Analysis & Reports

In 1974, the CIA executed Project Azorian to recover the Soviet submarine K-129 from the Pacific Ocean using the Hughes Glomar Explorer. This covert operation involved lowering a mechanical capture vehicle to the seabed and lifting parts of the submarine to the surface. While Soviet vessels observed, they were unaware of the true nature of the mission, which aimed to obtain sensitive Soviet technology.

Iran acquired 80 F-14A Tomcats and 633 AIM-54 Phoenix missiles from the U.S. in 1974, using them extensively during the Iran-Iraq War. Despite sanctions and a lack of support post-1979, the Islamic Republic of Iran Air Force has kept the F-14s operational through various means. However, the fleet's effectiveness has declined over the years due to aging airframes and diminishing resources.

The U.S. and Israeli forces have launched a significant air campaign against Iran since February 28, 2026, targeting military leadership and infrastructure. Despite the destruction of Iran's Air Force and Navy, the regime remains intact, and the Iranian populace has not united against it. Historical precedents indicate that airpower alone may not achieve the desired political outcomes.

The U.S. is formulating a military plan for a 'decisive strike' against Iran, which may involve ground troops and extensive bombing. Key targets include Hark Island, Larak Island, and Abu Musa Island, aimed at disrupting Iran's oil exports and nuclear capabilities. President Trump is ready to escalate conflict if negotiations do not yield results.

The Unified Force of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising 6,000 soldiers, was established in December 2025 in Niamey, Niger, to combat escalating violence in the Sahel. The force aims to operate across borders without restrictions, unlike the previous G5 Sahel force. JNIM and ISSP have intensified their attacks, including a significant assault on Niamey's airport, highlighting the urgent need for effective military coordination in the region.

Marie DuboisThu Mar 26 2026Loading...

The Unified Force of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), comprising 6,000 soldiers, was established in December 2025 in Niamey, Niger, to combat escalating violence in the Sahel. The region has seen a dramatic increase in security incidents, with over 9,000 deaths reported in 2025. JNIM and ISSP have intensified their operations, including a notable attack on Niamey's airport. The AES aims for operational autonomy and has diversified its military partnerships, moving away from reliance on France.

Marie DuboisThu Mar 26 2026Loading...

The M48 Patton tank, built by four American factories, saw extensive use in conflicts such as the 1965 Indo-Pakistani War and the Vietnam War. A total of 12,000 units were produced, and while the U.S. Army retired the tank in 1987, it remains in service with eight countries, including Thailand and Morocco. The tank is recognized for its combat performance and historical significance.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) requires significant repairs following a lengthy deployment to Venezuela and the Middle East, during which it supported critical military operations. The carrier faced plumbing issues and a fire that resulted in smoke inhalation treatment for 200 sailors. Despite these challenges, its advanced systems performed effectively, indicating a potential for future operational success.

The U.S. and Iran engaged in indirect negotiations through intermediaries, with the U.S. proposing a 15-point plan for conflict resolution while Iran responded with 5 conditions. Concurrently, military actions continued, including Israeli airstrikes on Iranian energy infrastructure, and the death of an Iranian naval commander was reported. The situation remains tense, impacting global oil prices and regional stability.

The Rafah border crossing reopened, allowing approximately 1950 tons of humanitarian aid to enter Gaza. Since the ceasefire in October, 671 people have died from Israeli military actions, with only 41% of the required aid reaching the region. The situation remains dire as international attention shifts to other conflicts, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

The U.S. Air Force continues its air campaign over Iran, effectively degrading military capabilities while Iran adapts and maintains operational capacity. The conflict remains ongoing, with no clear resolution in sight, as the U.S. employs a strategy of coercion without occupation. Key equipment involved includes F-22 Raptors and B-52 Stratofortresses.

During the 1999 NATO exercise JTFEX/TMDI99, the HNLMS Walrus submarine successfully simulated an attack on the USS Theodore Roosevelt and its escort ships in the Atlantic Ocean. The Walrus demonstrated superior stealth and maneuverability, evading detection and executing a simulated torpedo launch. This incident highlighted the effectiveness of smaller submarines against larger naval forces, prompting a reassessment of U.S. Navy tactics.

On March 26, the Israeli Defense Forces confirmed an airstrike on Abbas Port that killed Iranian Revolutionary Guard Navy Commander Ali Reza Tangsiri and several senior officers during a meeting. Tangsiri had been in command for approximately eight years and was known for orchestrating threats to maritime security in the region.

The U.S. Navy has sunk 60 Iranian warships as part of Operation Epic Fury, significantly degrading Iran's naval capabilities. This operation has led to the destruction of key Iranian naval assets, including the IRIS Dena, off the coast of Sri Lanka. U.S. forces have also targeted missile sites along the Iranian coastline, further diminishing Iran's ability to threaten navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.

The Israel Ministry of Defense announced the landing of the 200th aircraft in the ongoing Operation Roaring Lion, which has delivered over 8000 tons of military equipment and munitions. This operation, led by Defense Minister Israel Katz, aims to expand Israel's defense industrial base and enhance military readiness. The air and sea bridge operations are crucial for supporting the Israel Defense Forces' needs.

Israeli Defense Forces attacked and killed the head of the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps Navy Intelligence Department in Jerusalem on March 26.

The 74th Group Army conducted live-fire exercises at a training ground, utilizing multiple heavy weapons over day and night. Personnel prepared by donning bulletproof vests and checking ammunition before engaging in shooting drills. Night operations were executed with the aid of night vision equipment, aimed at improving combat readiness and precision strike capabilities.

Russian forces launched mechanized assaults in Borova and Lyman in March 2026 but faced significant challenges due to inadequate preparation and systemic failures. Ukrainian forces successfully advanced in multiple sectors and conducted deep strikes against Russian infrastructure in Leningrad Oblast. The operational situation reflects ongoing difficulties for Russia, including high casualties and logistical issues.

Dmitri VolkovThu Mar 26 2026Loading...

A sailor was injured during flight operations aboard the USS Abraham Lincoln in the Arabian Sea on March 25, 2025. The sailor was transported ashore for medical care and is in stable condition. This incident occurred during Operation Epic Fury, which has seen nearly 300 injuries among U.S. troops since its initiation.

A U.S.-made AN/ALE-50 towed decoy was recovered in Iraq, indicating its deployment during flight or separation from an aircraft. The decoy is designed to protect aircraft by diverting radar-guided missiles, reflecting ongoing reliance on electronic warfare for aircraft survivability. The recovery suggests precautions against radar-based threats in the area.