Analysis & Reports

The Kuwaiti Armed Forces are currently responding to drone attacks as of August 1. This action involves the deployment of air defense systems to counter the threat.

USS New Jersey (BB-62) engaged in combat operations across World War II, Korea, Vietnam, and Lebanon from 1943 to 1984. The battleship fired her last combat rounds in Lebanon on February 8, 1984, and is recognized as the most decorated battleship in U.S. Navy history. Currently, she serves as a museum ship in Camden, New Jersey.

Public support for the U.S. war in Iran has dropped to one in three Americans, with 18 U.S. soldiers reported dead since the conflict began on February 28, 2023. A recent poll indicates that 69% of respondents feel President Trump has not clearly articulated the military's objectives. The war has also led to rising gasoline prices, impacting American finances and political dynamics ahead of the midterm elections.

Public support for the U.S. war in Iran remains low, with only one in three Americans in favor. Since the conflict began on February 28, 2023, 18 American soldiers have died, and gasoline prices have surged. A significant majority of Americans feel President Trump has not clearly articulated the goals of military involvement, impacting his approval ratings ahead of the midterm elections.

Hamas announced on July 31, 2023, that it agrees to include the transfer of heavy weapons in ceasefire negotiations, contingent upon Israel's withdrawal from Gaza and an end to all forms of aggression. The group outlined specific conditions for the ceasefire, including the deployment of international stability forces and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. U.S. President Trump mentioned a phased disarmament agreement with Hamas, but Israel has not yet responded officially.

Israeli airstrikes on July 30 in the Gaza Strip killed two members of Hamas, including a logistics officer and a commander. The Israeli Defense Forces stated that these individuals were involved in planning attacks against Israel. The IDF continues operations in the area to address security threats, and a disarmament agreement regarding Hamas was announced by President Trump.

EDGE Group showcased the upgraded Mirage 2000 fighter jet equipped with Thunder precision-guided munitions and an ISR pod in the United Arab Emirates. This integration allows the aircraft to locate and strike targets effectively in a single mission. The UAE Armed Forces has invested significantly in this capability, with a recent contract for Thunder munitions valued at approximately $583 million.

The new prototype of the Khan fighter jet completed its first taxi test in Istanbul on July 31, 2023. Developed by Turkish Aerospace Industries, the jet features multiple design improvements and is set to replace the F-16 in the Turkish Air Force. The first flight is planned for February 21, 2024.

Turkish Aerospace Industries (TUSAŞ) successfully conducted powered taxi tests of the KAAN P1 fighter jet prototype in Turkey. The aircraft is part of Turkey's fifth-generation stealth fighter program, initiated after the country was removed from the F-35 program. TUSAŞ aims for the first flight of P1 within a couple of months, with plans for 148 aircraft to be produced and first deliveries to the Turkish Air Force targeted for 2028.

The Iranian military conducted drone strikes against U.S. forces at Sheikh Isa Air Base in Bahrain on July 30, targeting generators, navigation systems, and logistical buildings. The strikes reportedly caused significant damage to U.S. military assets, despite the presence of numerous defense systems.

Approximately 120 soldiers from the Israel Defense Forces refused orders and left their military base in Jerusalem on July 30. The incident arose from a conflict with a commander regarding the removal of slogans and signs, which soldiers protested against. Most of the soldiers returned to their posts, and the military has stated it will investigate the actions of the leading soldiers involved.

Ukraine claimed to have sunk a Russian Kilo-class submarine in Sevastopol on August 2, 2024, during a missile strike. The Kilo-class submarines, used by various navies including Russia, China, and Vietnam, are known for their stealth capabilities and are armed with Kalibr cruise missiles. The report highlights the ongoing relevance of these submarines in modern naval operations.

The U.S. military conducted an airstrike on Geshm Island, Iran, on July 30, resulting in the deaths of three family members, including a two-year-old child. The Iranian Foreign Ministry condemned the attack, stating it caused significant damage to residential buildings and compared the actions to those of terrorist organizations.

Hamas may soon sign a disarmament agreement that requires the group to surrender all weapons within 6 to 8 months. The Palestinian technocratic government will gradually take control of parts of the Gaza Strip, and Hamas members will receive amnesty. The Israeli Defense Forces plan to withdraw to the 'Green Line' following the agreement's signing, but will still act against imminent threats.

On July 30, 2023, the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps attacked the U.S. military base in Azraq, Jordan, claiming to have destroyed 3 F-35 fighter jets and severely damaged 3 others. However, U.S. Central Command reported that no U.S. aircraft were destroyed or damaged, stating that all missiles and drones were intercepted or failed to reach their targets.

The U.S. conducted airstrikes against Iranian targets on September 29-30, 2023, following missile attacks from Iran. Iran retaliated with drone strikes on U.S. bases in Jordan, claiming significant damage to F-35 jets. Egypt confirmed drone attacks on its port, indicating a potential escalation of the conflict. Saudi Arabia also engaged in strikes against Iranian-backed militias in Iraq, further complicating the regional situation.

The U.S. Armed Forces continue military operations against Iranian targets, with ongoing airstrikes reported in Jordan, Iraq, and Saudi Arabia. Since the conflict began on February 28, 2026, 18 American service members have died. Iran has retaliated with missile strikes targeting U.S. bases, while CENTCOM reports numerous airstrikes against the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps.

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. successfully completed a trial of the SPYDER air defense system in Israel, demonstrating its capability to intercept multiple threats, including UAVs. The trial involved various scenarios simulating current and future threats, showcasing the system's advanced features and adaptability. SPYDER has been selected by Romania and the Czech Republic to enhance their air defense capabilities.

Iran's military continues to disrupt shipping in the Strait of Hormuz using drones and missiles, despite suffering significant losses. US air superiority has not restored freedom of navigation, highlighting the challenges posed by low-altitude threats. The ongoing situation raises questions about the effectiveness of traditional airpower concepts in modern warfare.

The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps launched missile strikes against a U.S. military base in Jordan on July 30, 2023, in retaliation for U.S. airstrikes conducted the previous day. The U.S. Central Command reported that these airstrikes targeted multiple Iranian Revolutionary Guard facilities. The Iranian attack reportedly destroyed three F-35 aircraft and resulted in several personnel casualties at the base. Additionally, the Jordanian military intercepted five Iranian missiles aimed at their territory.