Analysis & Reports

Ukrainian drone commanders will brief U.S. policymakers on modern drone warfare at the Ground Truth Symposium in Washington on March 25. The symposium will focus on Ukraine's expertise in drone tactics and technology, particularly in light of recent conflicts. Ukrainian interceptors have successfully destroyed a significant percentage of incoming Shahed drones, showcasing their effectiveness in air defense.

James Michael Fisher was acquitted of charges related to the 2017 KC-130 plane crash that killed 16 service members in Itta Bena, Mississippi. The crash was attributed to a corroded propeller blade that was not repaired by Air Force maintenance. The investigation revealed systemic negligence in maintenance practices, leading to the grounding of similar aircraft.

Norwegian F-35s intercepted Russian Ilyushin Il-20M reconnaissance aircraft off the coast of Norway on March 10 and 11, 2026, during the NATO Cold Response 2026 exercise. The Russian aircraft, which had its transponder switched off, was monitored as it flew along the Norwegian coast before returning to the Kola Peninsula. This incident is part of ongoing quick-reaction alert missions by the Norwegian Air Force against unidentified Russian aircraft.

Ecuador will launch a major offensive against criminal organizations in Guayas, Los Ríos, and Santo Domingo de los Tsáchilas from March 15-30, 2023, with logistical support from the United States. An 11 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew will be enforced to facilitate troop movements. The operation aims to dismantle violent criminal groups linked to drug trafficking.

USS Florida (SSGN 728) completed a 727-day deployment starting in August 2022, operating across the Indo-Pacific, Middle East, and Europe. The submarine, armed with 154 Tomahawk missiles, showcased US military capabilities and deterrence amid rising global tensions. Despite its significant role, USS Florida is scheduled for retirement in 2026, raising concerns about a potential conventional strike gap in the US Navy's capabilities.

The U.S. Navy conducted sinking exercises (SINKEX) in the Arabian Sea and Caribbean Sea, sinking the decommissioned USS Tarawa and USS Dubuque on July 11 and 19, 2024. The exercises involved the use of advanced weaponry, including the Long-Range Anti-Ship Missile (LRASM) launched from F/A-18F Super Hornets and QUICKSINK munitions demonstrated by B-2 Spirit bombers. These operations aimed to showcase U.S. military capabilities and send a strategic message to China regarding naval threats.

The Philippine Navy deployed a new BrahMos anti-ship missile unit at Cape Bojeador on Luzon Island. This unit, operated by the 273rd Marine Battalion, aims to block the Luzon Strait, enhancing deterrence against Chinese naval movements. The BrahMos system has a range of about 300 kilometers and can reach speeds of up to Mach 3. This deployment is part of the Philippines' alignment with U.S. strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific region.

Iran continues to ship large amounts of crude oil to China through the Strait of Hormuz despite military threats and attacks on vessels. Since February 28, 2026, approximately 12 million barrels have transited the strait, with the majority officially destined for the People's Republic of China. The Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has targeted vessels, but analysts believe a long-term blockade of the strait would harm Iran's own interests.

The Pentagon confirmed the identity of Chief Warrant Officer 3 Robert Marzan, one of six soldiers killed in a March 1 drone strike at Port Shuaiba, Kuwait. The soldiers were part of the 103rd Sustainment Command and were the first American casualties of Operation Epic Fury. Their remains were returned to the U.S. on March 7, 2023.

USS Abraham Lincoln participated in combat operations against Iran starting February 28, 2026. A sailor aboard the carrier was photographed wearing a morale patch representing Stone Brewing's Arrogant Bastard Ale. The image was published on March 1, 2026, capturing the crew during flight operations.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) introduced the Merkava Mark 5 Barak tank, featuring advanced technologies such as AI-driven target processing and the Trophy Active Protection System. This tank is designed for high-intensity urban warfare expected in 2026 and has a proven combat history since its debut in 1982. The latest model was unveiled in September 2023 and is scheduled for acceptance testing in January 2024.

The U.S. Air Force faces criticism for focusing on air denial rather than air superiority, which is crucial for operational success. Recent conflicts in Ukraine and Iran demonstrate that without air superiority, military operations become constrained and costly. The report emphasizes the need for the U.S. to reaffirm its commitment to achieving air control to effectively project power and sustain operations.

The USS George H.W. Bush Carrier Strike Group is deploying to the Central Command area in February 2026 to support Operation Epic Fury and relieve the USS Gerald R. Ford. This deployment follows a successful Composite Training Unit Exercise, enhancing the U.S. Navy's operational readiness. The carrier, capable of launching over 90 aircraft, aims to deter threats from Houthi forces in the region.

Ukraine is actively developing and selling interceptor drones to counter drone threats, particularly from Iranian Shahed drones. The Ukrainian Armed Forces have successfully destroyed over 70% of incoming Shahed drones, showcasing the effectiveness of their new air defense systems. The U.S. and Israel's recent military actions have increased demand for these drones, prompting discussions for procurement with allied nations. Ukraine's defense innovation hub, Brave1, is at the forefront of this initiative, collaborating with various manufacturers to enhance drone capabilities.

Ukraine is actively developing and selling interceptor drones to counter drone threats, with over 20 companies involved in production. The U.S. and allied nations are in discussions to procure these drones, which have proven effective in combat against Shahed drones. The ongoing conflict has highlighted the need for innovative air defense solutions, prompting Ukraine to offer its expertise to allies.

NATO conducted Arctic exercises in March 2026 involving approximately 25,000 troops from 14 countries, including the United States and Denmark. The U.S. has set a 2027 deadline for Europe to assume NATO's conventional defense capabilities, prompting significant shifts in European defense strategies. Germany is increasing its defense budget and procurement focus, while France proposed extending its nuclear deterrent to other European nations.

Alexandra ReevesWed Mar 11 2026Loading...

The USS Ohio and three other Ohio-class submarines are being converted to Guided Missile Submarines (SSGNs) at Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, enhancing their capability to launch Tomahawk missiles. The Tomahawk Block IV missile has advanced to include features like loitering and retargeting, making it a key asset for the U.S. Navy's long-range strike capabilities. This evolution positions the Tomahawk as a critical component in modern military operations.

iRocket successfully completed a test flight of the iRX-100 missile in the United States, achieving Mach 2 and a range of six kilometers. The test confirmed the missile's compatibility with a launcher from Arnold Defense, supporting its use in counter-UAS operations. This development aims to enhance military capabilities without requiring new launcher infrastructure.

U.S. military operations against Iranian forces continued in the Strait of Hormuz, resulting in the destruction of at least 16 Iranian mine-laying vessels. Approximately 140-150 U.S. service members have been injured, with 108 returning to duty. Iranian missile and drone attacks have decreased, while the U.S. Navy has refrained from escorting ships through the strait due to safety concerns. Iran has begun mining the strait and is targeting banks associated with the U.S. and Israel.

The U.S. military has destroyed over 60 Iranian ships and the last of the Soleimani-class warships since February 28, 2023, as part of ongoing operations against Iran. U.S. Central Command reported 140 troops wounded and 7 service members killed during these strikes. The offensive continues with nearly hourly strikes targeting Iranian military infrastructure, including a ballistic missile manufacturing facility.