Analysis & Reports

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.

Russian forces launched a Spring 2026 offensive in eastern Ukraine on March 19, employing battalion-sized mechanized assaults in the Lyman direction. Despite initial attacks being repelled by Ukrainian forces, Russia is redeploying elite units to bolster its operations. Concurrently, Ukrainian counteroffensives have disrupted Russian plans, leading to significant territorial gains. The air campaign has intensified, with numerous drone strikes targeting Ukrainian infrastructure.

Dmitri VolkovTue Mar 24 2026Loading...

Russian forces launched a spring offensive in eastern Ukraine, focusing on Lyman, Slavyansk, and Kostyantynivka. The offensive has seen over 1,300 attacks on Ukrainian positions in the past week, with significant use of tanks, armored vehicles, artillery, and drones. Ukrainian military officials reported approximately 1,275 personnel losses during this period, indicating a substantial escalation in hostilities.

Ukrainian drones attacked the Russian oil ports of Primorsk and Ust-Luga between March 22 and 23, 2023, leading to the suspension of oil export operations. The attacks caused fires at fuel storage tanks in Primorsk, and over 70 drones were intercepted by Russian air defenses. This incident raises concerns about increased global energy supply tensions amid ongoing conflicts.

Russian forces conducted 619 assault operations between March 17 and March 20, 2026, but failed to breach Ukrainian defenses, suffering over 6,090 personnel killed or wounded. The main efforts were concentrated in the Pokrovsk and Oleksandrivsk directions, with significant combat also reported near Kostiantynivka and other sectors. Ukrainian forces successfully reinforced their positions, leading to a total of approximately 8,710 Russian personnel losses for the week.

A drone attack targeted an oil depot in Primorsk, Leningrad Oblast, on March 23, 2023, causing a fire and staff evacuation. The regional governor reported the destruction of over 60 drones in the area within a day. Pulkovo Airport canceled 62 flights and delayed 80 due to the threat, with operations gradually resuming as safety measures were implemented.

The U.S. Navy's USS George Washington operated in the South China Sea on November 24, 2025, reflecting U.S. commitment to regional security. Sun Tzu's Art of War continues to shape military strategy, emphasizing the importance of deception and intelligence. His teachings have influenced military leaders globally, including Mao Zedong and Admiral Tōgō, and are integral to NATO and U.S. military curricula.

The Israeli Air Force conducted strikes on Iranian Navy assets in Bandar Anzali on March 19, 2026, resulting in the destruction of at least two Sina-class missile boats and one Hamzeh vessel. This operation, part of the 'Roar of the Lion' campaign, targeted missile-equipped vessels while docked, significantly impacting Iranian naval capabilities in the Caspian Sea.

The U.S. announced temporary sanctions relief for Russian oil, allowing increased revenue that may bolster military operations. Russia plans to expand its Unmanned Systems Forces to 101,000 personnel by April 1, 2026, amid ongoing military actions in Kostyantynivka and other regions. Ukrainian forces continue to advance despite Russian offensives, while both sides engage in long-range strikes.

Dmitri VolkovSun Mar 22 2026Loading...

Ukrainian forces repelled a mass Russian assault near Lyman on March 19, 2023, disrupting the largest breakthrough attempt by Russian troops on the Lyman-Borova axis. The attack involved over 500 Russian infantry and 28 armored vehicles but collapsed within four hours due to effective Ukrainian defensive actions. Russian forces reportedly suffered significant losses, including 1,610 personnel and various equipment, as they attempted to maintain pressure in eastern Ukraine.

Russian Air Defense Forces intercepted over 30 drones heading towards Moscow on March 21, 2023, between midnight and 1 PM. In the previous day, they reported destroying a total of 668 Ukrainian drones. Additionally, from March 14 to 16, they shot down 65, 54, and 62 drones respectively.

Russia is modernizing its military capabilities in 2026, focusing on strategic systems like the RS-28 Sarmat ICBM and the Khabarovsk submarine for Poseidon operations. The Su-75 Checkmate fighter is set for its maiden flight, while the S-500 Prometheus air defense system is being deployed in critical areas. This modernization reflects a shift towards asymmetric advantages and enhanced deterrence capabilities.

Dmitri VolkovSat Mar 21 2026Loading...

Technical details of the Yolka interceptor drone were published, revealing its operational limitations and capabilities. The drone operates only during daylight, has a range of 3 kilometers, and can reach speeds of 200 km/h. It is designed for kinetic interception and is manufactured in Moscow, with multiple configurations based on battlefield experience.

Russian forces are adapting their drone operations and redeploying units in response to Ukrainian advances and communication challenges across the eastern and southern fronts. The 40th Naval Infantry Brigade and 120th Naval Infantry Division have been redeployed to the Oleksandrivka direction, while over 100 Molniya drones were destroyed by Ukrainian forces. Russia plans to expand its Unmanned Systems Forces to 101,000 personnel by April 1, 2026, amid ongoing operational setbacks.

Dmitri VolkovFri Mar 20 2026Loading...

The U.S.-Israeli military campaign against Iran escalated on March 18, 2026, targeting critical energy infrastructure, including the South Pars gas field and Asaluyeh processing hub. This operation damaged 20% of Iran's gas processing capacity, leading to a complete cessation of gas flows to Iraq. The strikes also included a decapitation campaign against Iran's security apparatus, resulting in significant casualties and internal unrest. The conflict has displaced approximately 3 million Iranians and threatens regional stability.

Ahmed Al-RashidFri Mar 20 2026Loading...

Russian forces resumed offensive operations in eastern Ukraine, intensifying attacks on the Pokrovsk axis and advancing towards Sloviansk and Kramatorsk. Ukraine's Commander-in-Chief reported that Russia plans to recruit 409,000 servicemen by 2026, indicating preparations for sustained military activity. The increase in operations coincides with improved weather conditions, allowing for more consistent offensive actions after months of positional fighting.

The Israeli Air Force conducted airstrikes on Iranian Navy assets in the Caspian Sea on March 19, 2026, marking the first such operation since the start of Operation 'Roar of the Lion'. The strikes targeted missile ships, patrol boats, and a central command facility, aiming to disrupt Iranian naval operations and capabilities in the region.

NATO is revising its integrated air and missile defense planning amid rising threats from Russia and recent military engagements. The Eastern Sentry initiative integrates air defense capabilities across NATO's eastern flank, successfully intercepting Iranian ballistic missiles aimed at Turkey. Concurrently, NATO conducts various military exercises in the Nordic-Baltic region, emphasizing persistent operations and enhanced readiness.

Alexandra ReevesThu Mar 19 2026Loading...

Russia's military capabilities in the Arctic are being limited by the Ukraine war, while it continues to enhance its operational readiness. The Kola Peninsula, crucial for its nuclear capabilities, hosts significant military assets, including the Northern Fleet. Russia aims to assert its interests in the Arctic amidst growing U.S. influence and competition with China, which is also expanding its presence in the region.

Russia's military capabilities in the Arctic are being constrained by the ongoing Ukraine war, affecting its strategic ambitions in the region. The Kola Peninsula, crucial for Russia's nuclear capabilities, hosts significant military assets, including the Northern Fleet. Despite these challenges, Russia continues to enhance its military readiness and views the Arctic as vital for its security and economic interests. Concurrently, China is increasing its Arctic presence, seeking to expand its influence through scientific and commercial ventures.