Analysis & Reports

The Ecuadorian Army conducted a four-day military operation in El Chical, Carchi Province, targeting illegal mining operations linked to organized crime. The operation involved the deployment of three AMX-13 tanks, mortars, and helicopters, resulting in the destruction of 15 mine entrances and over 5,000 sacks of gold-bearing material. The operation aimed to disrupt the illicit revenue streams of the criminal group 'Los Lobos', with an estimated economic impact of USD 3 million.

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.

Mexico selected the Canadian-made Roshel Senator MRAP armored vehicle for its armed forces and federal police after successful trials at the end of last year. The decision reflects the need for protected mobility platforms to confront threats from organized criminal groups. The Senator MRAP, built on a Ford F-550 chassis, is designed for high-risk environments and can be adapted for various missions.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is undergoing an extended deployment from June 2025 to May 2026, facing significant mechanical wear and psychological strain due to high operational demands. The carrier has been involved in operations against Iran after initially supporting missions in Venezuela. A fire incident in March 2026 has compounded the challenges, leading to expectations of a lengthy maintenance period upon its return.

The Republic of Korea Air Force's first Embraer C-390 Millennium military transport aircraft completed its maiden flight in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The aircraft will undergo testing and integration to meet operational needs, confirming its progression towards service entry. Designed for diverse missions, it can carry up to 26 tons and operate from unpaved runways, enhancing its flexibility in various environments.

On 12 March 2023, the Netherlands signed a contract for three Damen Stan Patrol 5009 vessels to enhance the Dutch Caribbean Coast Guard's capabilities. The new vessels will replace older models and are expected to be delivered by early 2029. Additionally, four Interceptors 1102 will be provided to support anti-smuggling operations and improve maritime surveillance.

USS Nimitz (CVN-68) is transitioning to its new homeport in Norfolk, Virginia, for decommissioning after over 50 years of service. The carrier departed Naval Base Kitsap on March 7, 2026, and is participating in the Southern Seas 2026 deployment, visiting partner states in South America. The decommissioning process includes complex defueling of its nuclear reactors, with a contract modification awarded for planning and execution.

Ecuador will launch a major offensive against criminal organizations in Guayas, Los Ríos, and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas from March 15-30, 2023, with logistical support from the United States. An 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew will be enforced to facilitate troop movements. The operation aims to dismantle violent criminal groups linked to drug trafficking.

USS Nimitz (CVN-68) is participating in Southern Seas 2026 exercises while en route from Bremerton to Norfolk, engaging in diplomatic port visits in South America. The carrier, scheduled for decommissioning in May 2026, is not certified for national tasking but is being utilized for training and regional engagement. This operational cruise raises questions about the Navy's decision to retire the vessel despite its ongoing utility.

A U.S. Navy submarine sank an Iranian warship in the Indian Ocean, resulting in significant casualties. Four U.S. service members were killed in a drone strike in Kuwait. NATO air defenses successfully intercepted an Iranian ballistic missile targeting Turkey. Concurrently, U.S. military operations against drug traffickers in Ecuador are ongoing, and a U.S. military base in Qatar was struck by a ballistic missile.

USS Gerald R. Ford is currently deployed in the Mediterranean Sea for over 246 days, preparing for potential combat operations against Iran. The carrier's crew faces challenges, including mechanical issues and morale concerns due to clogged toilets. In contrast, USS New Jersey maintained combat readiness for 14 months during WWII, showcasing the endurance of naval forces in prolonged deployments.

USS Gerald R. Ford is deployed to the Middle East, facing potential military confrontation with Iran. The deployment, which began in June 2022, may extend to 11 months, causing fatigue among the approximately 5,000 sailors on board. Reports indicate issues with the ship's sewage system and crew dissatisfaction, with some considering leaving the Navy. The carrier is expected to dock in Haifa, Israel, after transiting the Mediterranean Sea.

USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is currently on a record-breaking deployment, transitioning from the North Sea to the Caribbean and now to the Mediterranean to support the Abraham Lincoln Strike Group against Iran. The carrier has been at sea for nearly 300 days, highlighting the U.S. Navy's reliance on fewer ships amid escalating global crises. Approximately one-third of the U.S. Navy's force is deployed to the Middle East, indicating a significant operational strain on the fleet.

Cuba is currently facing a severe oil crisis with only 20 days of supply left due to a U.S. blockade that has cut off Venezuelan oil imports. The Cuban government is struggling with economic decline and demographic challenges, prompting officials to seek assistance from Russia. The situation has raised concerns about potential regime change as the country faces unprecedented uncertainty.

The USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) is currently deployed to the Middle East, marking a projected 300-day deployment to counter Iran. Since June 24, 2025, the carrier has participated in high-intensity exercises in the North Sea and missions in the Caribbean. The U.S. Navy faces significant maintenance backlogs and a shipbuilding crisis, impacting its operational readiness and power projection capabilities.

USS Gerald R. Ford is extending its deployment to the Middle East, potentially exceeding 300 days at sea, which would break the previous record for aircraft carrier deployments. This decision comes amid rising tensions with Iran and highlights the operational demands on the U.S. Navy. Chief of Naval Operations has raised concerns about the impact of such long deployments on sailor morale and maintenance schedules.

USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) is undergoing major maintenance and repairs, which are expected to sideline the ship until February 2028. The U.S. Navy has awarded a contract to BAE Systems for repairs worth between $204.1 million and $255.8 million. While currently operating in the Caribbean, the ship's readiness may be impacted by rising tensions with Iran, potentially delaying its maintenance schedule.

The Brazilian Navy's first Tamandaré-class frigate, built by SPE Águas Azuis, received the SYNAPSIS Integrated Navigation and Bridge System in early 2023. This system enhances navigational performance and operational readiness, supporting a range of maritime missions. The program emphasizes technology transfer and local support, marking a significant advancement in Brazil's naval capabilities.

USS Iwo Jima is set to undergo a $204.2 million modernization overhaul at Norfolk Naval Shipyard starting in June 2026. This maintenance follows its involvement in Operation Southern Spear, where it played a crucial role in capturing Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro. The overhaul will further strain the U.S. Navy's amphibious fleet, which is already limited after the decommissioning of the USS Bonhomme Richard.

Former President Trump announced that the US military has destroyed a significant facility in Venezuela.