Analysis & Reports

Iranian military launched missile strikes on a U.S. base at Erbil International Airport in Iraq on March 24, 2023, targeting a site used for logistics and command operations. The attack resulted in 6 deaths and 30 injuries among Kurdish forces. The Iranian military described the area as a base for separatist forces supported by Israel.

USS Gerald R. Ford was forced to withdraw to Crete for repairs after a fire in its laundry room on March 12, injuring three sailors and requiring treatment for over 200 others. The incident exposed ongoing technical and support issues with the aircraft carrier, which has been deployed for about nine months. The U.S. Navy's operational capabilities are under scrutiny as the Ford class carrier lacks sufficient combat testing data.

Army ROTC cadets were awarded eight meritorious service medals and two Purple Hearts for their bravery during a shooting incident at Old Dominion University on March 12, 2023. The shooter, Mohamed Bailor Jalloh, opened fire in a classroom, resulting in one death and two injuries. The cadets subdued Jalloh, preventing further casualties, and were recognized in a ceremony led by Army officials.

USS Nimitz is deploying to the U.S. Southern Command area for maritime exercises with South American partner nations in 2026. The carrier, along with USS Gridley, will conduct operations at sea and enhance interoperability with partner forces. Scheduled port visits include Brazil, Chile, Panama, and Jamaica.

AeroVironment unveiled the LOCUST X3 counter-drone system at Global Force 2026 in Virginia. The system utilizes a 20-30 kw laser to target small to medium-sized drones and is designed to address threats from drones like Iran's Shahed and Russia's Geran. It can be deployed from vehicles or fixed positions, and AeroVironment plans to begin testing complete systems soon.

The Hawaii National Guard mobilized 195 soldiers and airmen to conduct search-and-rescue operations across Hawaii in response to severe flooding caused by powerful storms. The flooding has resulted in over 200 rescues and significant damage, with losses estimated above $1 billion. High Water Vehicle Teams and Black Hawk helicopters are actively involved in recovery efforts, while coordination with federal agencies is ongoing to secure additional resources.

The U.S. Army raised the maximum enlistment age to 42 and removed the waiver requirement for recruits with a single marijuana conviction. This change reflects an effort to adapt to increasing average recruit ages and aims to enhance the Army's technical capabilities. The Army's recruiting overhaul is part of a broader strategy to meet recruitment goals and modernize its workforce.

Japan is considering deploying its Maritime Self-Defense Force to the Strait of Hormuz to assist in mine-clearing operations following Iran's threats to lay mines in the Persian Gulf. The Japanese fleet includes advanced minesweepers and has a history of participating in similar operations. This potential deployment reflects Japan's ongoing military cooperation with the U.S. and its strategic interests in the region.

The U.S. Marine Corps is preparing for a potential assault on Kharg Island, Iran, utilizing 2,000 Marines and 20 F-35B fighter jets. The operation will be supported by the USS Tripoli and will incorporate modern amphibious warfare strategies, emphasizing speed and precision. This approach aligns with the Marine Corps' Force Design 2030, which focuses on advanced technologies and rapid deployment capabilities.

The U.S. and Iran are engaged in intense mutual attacks, with Trump announcing a pause in strikes against Iran's power stations. Diplomatic dialogues are ongoing, but Iran's parliamentary speaker denied any negotiations with the U.S. Meanwhile, Iran has launched attacks against Israel, indicating escalating tensions in the region.

China is learning from the vulnerabilities of the U.S. military exposed during the ongoing conflict in Iran, particularly regarding missile and air defense inventories. The U.S. Armed Forces are facing significant challenges due to reliance on expensive superweapons, leading to inventory shortages and overstretch. This situation may allow China to develop strategies to overwhelm U.S. defenses with mass-produced drones and missiles.

Russia has lost between 3,000 and 4,000 tanks in the Ukraine war due to tactical blunders and advanced Western weaponry, particularly Javelin missiles and FPV drones. Despite these losses, the Russian Army continues to operate effectively, supported by a robust industrial base capable of producing new tanks and a network of repair units. The conflict has revealed significant challenges for both sides, with Ukraine struggling with manpower issues.

The U.S. Air Force deployed the GBU-72 bomb to destroy Iranian coastal missile stockpiles near the Strait of Hormuz on April 21. This 5,000-pound bunker-buster bomb penetrates deep underground before detonating, maximizing its destructive impact. The operation is part of ongoing efforts to neutralize threats in the region.

On June 1, 2025, the Security Service of Ukraine executed a coordinated drone strike deep inside Russia, targeting four strategic air bases and destroying over 40 aircraft. This operation, involving more than 150 small drones, showcased the effectiveness of modern asymmetric warfare tactics, bypassing traditional air defenses. The attack significantly impacted Russia's long-range bomber fleet, representing 34% of its strategic cruise missile capabilities.

The U.S. military has lost 20 aircraft in the Iran war, including 3 F-15E Strike Eagles and 12 drones, with 6 crew members killed in a mid-air collision. An F-35A was damaged by Iranian fire but managed an emergency landing. The operations have led to significant destruction of Iranian naval assets, showcasing the effectiveness of U.S. air campaigns despite tragic incidents of friendly fire.

U.S. and Israeli forces conducted extensive airstrikes against Iranian military targets, destroying over 9,000 assets. In response, Iran has employed fast-attack boats and sea mines to block the Strait of Hormuz, significantly disrupting global oil supply. This situation has led to rising oil prices and economic implications for the U.S. and its allies.

The U.S. Navy is conducting an air campaign against Iran from the Arabian Sea, primarily utilizing the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN-72) due to the USS Gerald R. Ford (CVN-78) being sidelined by a fire. The campaign is the largest since 2003, with logistical challenges impacting carrier availability. A third carrier, USS George H.W. Bush, is anticipated to join the operation shortly.

The USS Jimmy Carter (SSN-23), a U.S. Navy submarine, is actively conducting covert missions in the Pacific after recent maintenance. This highly modified Seawolf-class submarine, equipped with the Dry Combat Submersible, serves as a mothership for Navy SEALs, enabling stealthy operations. Commissioned in 2005, it is the most expensive attack submarine, designed for advanced intelligence gathering and undersea warfare.

MSI Defense Solutions and Nearthlab signed a memorandum of understanding on March 24 in Huntsville, Alabama, to integrate the KAiDEN autonomous interceptor drone into the EAGLS counter-UAS system. This integration aims to enhance the system's capabilities by adding a kinetic interception option to address drone threats, particularly in Eastern Europe. The KAiDEN drone is designed to physically engage and neutralize incoming drone threats, expanding the EAGLS system's engagement options.

Ukrainian forces destroyed a Bastion launcher and two Zircon missiles in Crimea on March 24. The operation resulted in the deaths or injuries of seven Russian personnel. This strike targeted a column of Bastion launchers that had been moving toward firing positions, reflecting a significant disruption in Russian missile capabilities.