Analysis & Reports

Babcock International Group signed a Memorandum of Understanding with S.A.F.E. to collaborate on international defense training opportunities. This partnership was announced at the Brussels European Defence Exhibition and Conference and aims to enhance training capabilities for NATO member nations, leveraging Babcock's international experience and S.A.F.E.'s regional expertise.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned that oil facilities in Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar are legitimate targets for strikes. This warning was issued on March 18, 2023, and local populations have been urged to evacuate the areas in preparation for potential attacks.

The U.S. Army is redesigning the M1E3 Abrams tank, aiming for a lighter, faster, and quieter vehicle suitable for modern warfare. The new design focuses on modularity and incorporates a hybrid powertrain to enhance survivability in drone-dominated environments. This tank is intended to support ground forces rather than lead assaults, reflecting a shift in military strategy.

Iranian Basij militia commander Soleimani was killed in a joint U.S.-Israeli attack on March 17. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps confirmed his assassination, highlighting the significant role of the Basij militia in combat against U.S. and Israeli forces. In response, Iran launched multiple missile and drone strikes targeting U.S. and Israeli assets in the region.

Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps launched the 62nd wave of the 'Real Commitment-4' operation on March 18, targeting U.S. military bases and Israeli military assembly points. The operation involved missile strikes using Qader, Khoramshahr, and Imad missiles, hitting locations including Acre, Haifa, Tel Aviv, and Beersheba.

Gulf states, including the UAE and Saudi Arabia, successfully intercepted numerous Iranian drones and ballistic missiles on March 14, 2026, demonstrating the effectiveness of their air defense systems. Despite Iranian attacks on civilian infrastructure in Dubai and Fujairah, Gulf states maintained a defensive posture, avoiding escalation into direct conflict. The operational success of their defense systems has limited damage and casualties, reflecting a significant strategic development in the ongoing regional conflict.

Ahmed Al-RashidWed Mar 18 2026Loading...

U.S. and Israeli forces conducted drone strikes on Iranian gas facilities in South Pars, Bushehr Province on March 18. The strikes targeted the largest gas facility in Iran, which processes 40% of the country's gas supply. This operation was reportedly coordinated with U.S. officials, according to Israeli sources.

NATO is deploying an additional Patriot missile defense system in southeastern Turkey to enhance airspace protection amid rising regional tensions. The system is being relocated from Germany's Ramstein Air Base to Adana, complementing an existing system from Spain. Previously, NATO forces intercepted a ballistic missile launched from Iran, which Iran has denied.

Ursa Major successfully demonstrated a hypersonic missile powered by its Draper storable liquid engine in the United States. The Air Force's Affordable Rapid Missile Demonstrator (ARMD) program achieved its first flight in under a year, showcasing the engine's capabilities for both endo- and exo-atmospheric flight. The initiative focuses on affordability and rapid development, with Ursa Major integrating the entire vehicle system for the first time.

On March 12, 2023, a fire broke out in the main laundry spaces of the USS Gerald R. Ford while operating in the Red Sea, displacing over 600 sailors. The ship is now en route to Crete for repairs, as its laundry facilities remain inoperable. Two sailors were treated for injuries, and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has declared the carrier strike group a military target.

On March 13, 2026, U.S. military assets remained in the Philippines, with over 500 planned military activities for the year. The Typhon Mid-Range Capability launchers were permanently stationed, enhancing U.S. deterrence against China. The Mahatao base on Batan Island was assessed for improved maritime capabilities, while U.S. troop focus shifted due to the conflict in the Middle East.

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The United Kingdom and Ukraine signed the Enhanced Security and Defence Industrial Collaboration Declaration in London on 17 March 2026, enhancing military cooperation. Concurrently, the UK updated its defense framework with Ireland to address subsea infrastructure protection and cyber threats. These agreements reflect a strategic shift in European security cooperation, particularly in response to Russian hybrid threats.

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BAE Systems is developing a new anti-drone system called BATS to eliminate hostile drones, with work starting in October 2025. The system is expected to be ready for testing in April 2026 and aims to protect key civilian and military infrastructure from drone threats. BATS will utilize smart software and electronic warfare to reduce reliance on costly missiles.

Elbit Systems is developing laser weapons for the Israeli Air Force to be installed on fighter jets and military helicopters. This initiative is part of Israel's ongoing military operation with the United States against Iran. The Iron Beam laser defense system is already operational, and the new airborne laser technology aims to enhance effectiveness against missile threats. The engineering work for this technology is at an advanced stage, with potential offensive applications.

France and Germany announced the creation of a joint nuclear steering group on March 5, 2026, marking a significant shift in European defense policy. This initiative aims to develop an independent nuclear deterrence strategy, integrating conventional military capabilities and missile defense systems. France's nuclear arsenal, comprising approximately 290 warheads, will play a central role in this cooperation, which also involves increased defense spending and participation in joint military exercises.

Dr. Klaus WeberWed Mar 18 2026Loading...

Nigeria is leading military modernization in West Africa, acquiring 24 M-346FA aircraft and 12 AH-1Z Viper helicopters to enhance its capabilities against Boko Haram. Senegal and Mali are also increasing military imports, with Mali pivoting towards Russia for arms. The U.S. has approved a $346 million contract for precision munitions for Nigeria, while Nigeria seeks to develop local defense technologies with UAE investment.

Marie DuboisWed Mar 18 2026Loading...

Two Philippine C-208 aircraft illegally entered Chinese airspace over Scarborough Shoal on March 18, prompting the People's Liberation Army Southern Theater Command to issue warnings and expel the aircraft. The Chinese military condemned the incursion as a serious violation of sovereignty and called for an immediate cessation of provocative actions. The Southern Theater Command is maintaining a high state of readiness to defend national sovereignty and regional stability.

Israeli Defense Forces conducted airstrikes against Hezbollah targets in Lebanon on March 18, 2023. The strikes targeted launch sites, weapon storage points, and command centers following a Hezbollah attack on Israel. Additionally, the Israeli Navy engaged Hezbollah personnel in Beirut and struck a financial institution associated with Hezbollah.

On March 18, the China Coast Guard conducted a patrol in the territorial waters of Diaoyu Island. This operation is part of China's efforts to assert its rights in the region.

The Alliance of Sahel States (AES) is operationalizing a unified force of 6,000 troops to combat jihadist threats in the Sahel, following a critical meeting in Ouagadougou on February 26, 2026. Concurrently, ECOWAS announced the activation of its standby force to deploy 2,000 soldiers by the end of 2026. The security situation continues to deteriorate, with increased attacks by groups like Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM) and the Islamic State's Sahel Province (ISSP), leading to significant civilian casualties and a fragmented security landscape.

Marie DuboisWed Mar 18 2026Loading...