Analysis & Reports

The Shenyang J-35A stealth fighter has undergone significant development since its 2014 debut, evolving into a carrier-capable aircraft for the People's Liberation Army Air Force. It is designed to be a cost-effective alternative to the Chengdu J-20 and U.S. F-35, utilizing advanced production techniques to enhance affordability. The J-35A is now operational from the CV-18 Fujian aircraft carrier, capable of air superiority and strike missions.

Iran has launched a significant drone campaign against Gulf Arab states, utilizing thousands of Shahed-series UAVs to target U.S. bases and commercial hubs in Bahrain, Dubai, and Abu Dhabi. This operation has resulted in fatalities and aims to degrade regional air defenses. Ukraine has responded by sending experts to assist Gulf partners in countering these drone threats, reflecting lessons learned from their own conflict with Russia.

A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II sustained combat damage from a missile attack over Iran on March 19, 2026, requiring an emergency landing. The incident, confirmed by CENTCOM, raises concerns about the effectiveness of the aircraft's missile warning systems. The F-35A landed safely with no pilot casualties, but the attack highlights ongoing risks from Iranian air defenses.

Texelis Defense and Scata are developing the MK1 combat vehicle in Finland, designed for counter-drone and air-defense operations. The 18-ton vehicle can transport up to 10 soldiers and perform reconnaissance missions. The project addresses a market gap in the European defense sector and will be showcased at the Eurosatory arms fair in June 2023.

U.S. Air Force A-10 Warthogs are actively hunting and destroying Iranian fast-attack boats in the Strait of Hormuz, neutralizing over 120 vessels. Under the leadership of Gen. Dan Caine, the A-10s have been granted an extension of service until 2029, enhancing regional stability. Equipped with advanced weaponry, the A-10s are effectively engaging maritime threats in this strategic area.

The Marine Corps tested amphibious vehicle prototypes, including the ARV-30, at Camp Pendleton in January and February 2023. The tests demonstrated new features such as an 'autotrim function' for automated navigation and assessed the vehicle's performance in various water conditions. The prototypes, developed by Textron Systems and General Dynamics, are part of a competition to replace the aging light armored vehicle fleet, with a contractor selection expected by 2030.

The Marine Corps tested the ARV-30 amphibious vehicle prototype at Camp Pendleton, California, in January and February 2023. The tests demonstrated new features, including an 'autotrim function' for automated navigation and safety enhancements. The vehicle was evaluated for its performance in various water conditions, including high-speed entries and turret movements for potential live fire scenarios. A contractor selection is expected by 2030.

The U.S. Marine Corps has deployed a Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Strait of Hormuz to secure the waterway and counter Iranian sea-denial tactics. Iran's military effectiveness is declining as its missile stocks are depleted, and the regime faces internal challenges. The conflict has shifted into a lower-intensity war of attrition, favoring the U.S. and its allies, with expectations of improved control over the Strait in the near future.

Ukrainian forces struck a Russian Ka-52 helicopter with an FPV drone in the Nadiivka area of Donetsk region during ongoing combat operations. The helicopter was reportedly involved in a search-and-rescue mission for a damaged Mi-8. Following the strike, the crew attempted to escape but were eliminated in subsequent actions. Visual evidence confirmed the incident, showing the helicopter engulfed in flames.

U.S. Air Force A-10 Thunderbolt IIs are actively conducting combat missions against Iranian-backed drones in Iraq and Syria as part of Operation Epic Fury. Equipped with APKWS laser-guided rockets and AIM-9M Sidewinders, the A-10s are adapting to counter the growing drone threat. This shift in operational focus highlights the aircraft's evolving role from traditional close air support to countering unmanned aerial systems.

Chinese fighter plane activity near Taiwan decreased significantly over the past three weeks, with reports of only two sorties on some days. This reduction is attributed to various factors, including political calculations ahead of a summit between U.S. President Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. However, activity resumed with 28 sorties reported on March 19, indicating a return to previous levels.

The United States Marine Corps announced that Marines can now use the M17 Romeo red dot optic for pistol qualifications and in combat. This marks the first time optical sights are permitted for Marine pistols, aimed at improving shooting accuracy and lethality. Units are responsible for procuring and installing the optics, which are designed for the M17 and M18 pistols.

A French naval officer leaked the location of the Charles de Gaulle aircraft carrier strike group while jogging on the ship's deck on March 13, 2023. The leak occurred through the Strava fitness app, revealing the group's position northwest of Cyprus. The French military confirmed the breach and stated that it does not comply with regulations, highlighting potential security risks amid ongoing Middle Eastern conflicts.

The U.S. Air Force issued Requests for Information to develop counter-small unmanned aerial systems (C-sUAS) technology, focusing on detection and kinetic hard-kill capabilities. The submissions are due by April 30, and the initiative is part of the Air Force's effort to maintain tactical superiority against evolving drone threats. The requests include specifications for rapidly deployable systems and various weapon systems to neutralize small drones.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) launched the 67th wave of Operation 'True Commitment-4' on March 20, 2023, targeting U.S. military bases in Kuwait and various military facilities in Israel using heavy missiles and drones. The operation aimed to commemorate fallen IRGC spokesperson Naini and involved precise strikes on drone command centers and missile defense radars.

U.S. and Israeli forces attacked 16 cargo ships at Lengeh Port on March 20, 2023, causing severe damage to the commercial dock and significant losses for local operators. The attack resulted in a large fire that destroyed the ships, which are vital for the livelihoods of local residents.

The Unified Force of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES) was established in December 2025, comprising 6,000 troops based in Niamey, Niger. This force aims to operate across Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, focusing on countering jihadist threats. The AES has validated its operational capabilities through the Yereko 2 mission and has adopted a multipolar approach to military procurement, enhancing its strategic autonomy.

Marie DuboisFri Mar 20 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.

U.S. and Israeli forces attacked 16 cargo ships at Lengeh Port, Iran, on March 20, causing severe damage to the commercial dock and significant losses for local operators. The attack resulted in a fire that destroyed the ships, which are crucial for the livelihoods of local residents.

Japan's EC-2 electronic-warfare aircraft completed its maiden flight at Gifu Air Base on March 17, 2023. The aircraft, converted from a Kawasaki C-2, aims to enhance the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's capabilities in electronic warfare. It will be stationed at Iruma Air Base and is part of a broader strategy to secure superiority in the electromagnetic spectrum amid regional threats.