Analysis & Reports

AI-assisted analysis of military-related information from public sources

Russia develops new jammer to counter FPV drone attacks

Russia develops new jammer to counter FPV drone attacks

Weapons & EquipmentMilitary OperationsOperational

Rostec has developed the SERP-FPV, a vehicle-mounted counter-FPV drone jammer, designed to protect mobile assets from drone attacks. This system features rapid deployment capabilities and 360-degree coverage, allowing it to effectively suppress signals from FPV drones, including those operating on custom frequencies. The SERP-FPV is part of a broader effort to enhance electronic warfare capabilities in response to evolving drone threats in the conflict.

Source: Defense BlogTue May 05 2026
The Week the War Came to Moscow: Escalation, Deterrence, and the Fracturing of European Security

The Week the War Came to Moscow: Escalation, Deterrence, and the Fracturing of European Security

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentPolitical-MilitaryHybrid

Ukrainian drone strikes targeted Moscow and other Russian locations on May 5, leading to the interception of 117 drones by Russian forces. The attacks coincide with heightened security measures in Moscow ahead of the Victory Day parade, which has been significantly scaled back due to perceived threats. Ukraine's military operations have expanded into Russia's industrial heartland, while diplomatic tensions continue to rise between NATO and Russia. President Zelensky proposed a unilateral ceasefire, challenging Russia's response.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovTue May 05 2026
Ukraine strikes deep into Russia, hits key military electronics supplier

Ukraine strikes deep into Russia, hits key military electronics supplier

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

Ukraine struck the VNIIR Progress electronics facility in Cheboksary, Russia, overnight using an FP-5 Flamingo cruise missile followed by An-196 kamikaze drones. This facility is crucial for supplying electronics to Russian military systems, and the strike indicates a significant enhancement in Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities. The operation reflects a strategic shift in targeting industrial sites that support Russian military operations, revealing potential weaknesses in Russian air defense.

Source: Defense BlogTue May 05 2026
The guided missile destroyer USS Nitze (DDG 94) fires its MK-45 5 inch gun during a Surface Warfare Advanced Tactical Training (SWATT) exercise. Nitze is part of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26 which supports Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 10. SWATT is led by the Naval Surface and Mine Warfighting Development Center (SMWDC) and is designed to increase warfighting proficiency, lethality, and interoperability or participating units. (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Bryan Valek)

The Brutal Truth About Why a Ceasefire With Iran Solves Nothing Long Term

Strategic AssessmentPolitical-MilitaryStrategic

Iran is enhancing its military capabilities with support from Russia and North Korea, complicating U.S. military strategies. The U.S. debates its approach to Iran, which has gained operational insights from recent conflicts. China's economic ties with Iran continue to bolster its defense budget, undermining sanctions. The report warns that episodic military strikes will not resolve the underlying issues, as Iran's military partnerships and capabilities are evolving.

Source: 19FortyFiveTue May 05 2026

Russia announces ceasefire on Victory Day, hopes Ukraine will follow suit

Political-MilitaryMilitary OperationsStrategic

Russia announced a ceasefire for Victory Day on May 8-9, urging Ukraine to reciprocate. The Russian Ministry of Defense warned that any attempts by Ukraine to disrupt the celebrations would be met with significant retaliation, particularly if attacks on Moscow occur. The military is prepared to ensure the safety of the events, marking the 81st anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War.

Source: Global TimesMon May 04 2026

The Week the Transatlantic Fracture Deepened: US Troop Withdrawals, Trade Escalation, and Europe’s Strategic Reckoning

Force MovementPolitical-MilitaryOperational

The Pentagon announced the withdrawal of 5,000 U.S. troops from Germany, expected to be completed within six to twelve months. This decision, influenced by political tensions, marks the first significant reduction of American military presence in Germany since the Cold War. Concurrently, European leaders convened in Armenia, reflecting a shift towards strategic autonomy amid rising tariffs on EU automotive exports.

Alexandra ReevesAlexandra ReevesMon May 04 2026

Ukraine's Deep Strike Campaign Reaches Into Moscow as NATO Fractures Deepen Across Eastern Europe

Military OperationsCasualties & LossesPolitical-MilitaryHybrid

A Ukrainian drone struck the Mosfilm Tower in Moscow on May 4, 2026, marking a significant escalation in the conflict. Concurrently, Ukrainian forces targeted military assets in Leningrad Oblast and Novorossiysk, while Russian missile strikes in Kharkiv Oblast resulted in civilian casualties. The report highlights growing political tensions within NATO, particularly following U.S. troop reductions in Europe.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon May 04 2026
Ukraine's Long-Range Strike Campaign Reaches Into the Heart of Moscow as NATO's Sword 26 Demonstrates Eastern Flank Warfighting Readiness

Ukraine's Long-Range Strike Campaign Reaches Into the Heart of Moscow as NATO's Sword 26 Demonstrates Eastern Flank Warfighting Readiness

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentLogisticsHybrid

Ukrainian drones struck a residential building in Moscow on May 4, 2026, marking a significant escalation in Ukraine's long-range strike campaign. Concurrently, Ukrainian forces targeted Russian naval assets in the Gulf of Finland and conducted multiple drone strikes on oil refineries and military installations. NATO's Exercise Sword 26, involving 15,500 participants, aims to validate combat readiness across the eastern flank. These developments reflect a shifting strategic landscape in the ongoing conflict.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovMon May 04 2026

Russian media: Ukrainian drone attack results in two deaths and multiple injuries

Military OperationsCasualties & LossesOperational

Ukrainian forces conducted 14 drone strikes in Donetsk Oblast on May 4, 2023, resulting in two fatalities and four injuries. The strikes also caused damage to seven residential buildings and four civilian infrastructures. Additionally, a drone attack in Bryansk Oblast injured one employee at an industrial facility.

Source: Global TimesSun May 03 2026

Ukraine Escalates Deep-Strike Campaign Against Russian Energy Infrastructure as Frontline Fighting Intensifies

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentLogisticsHybrid

Ukrainian forces executed a series of drone strikes against Russian energy infrastructure, including the Tuapse oil refinery and tankers near Novorossiysk, from May 1 to 3, 2026. The attacks aimed to degrade Russia's oil export capabilities and were part of a broader deep-strike campaign. Concurrently, ground combat intensified along the eastern front, with significant engagements reported. Ukrainian drones also damaged Russian fighter jets at Shagol airfield, highlighting the expanding operational reach of Ukrainian forces.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSun May 03 2026

Zelensky Claims Ukraine Continues to Sanction Russia's "Shadow Fleet," Strikes Two Oil Tankers Entering Port

Military OperationsPolitical-MilitaryOperational

Ukrainian forces struck two oil tankers in the Novorossiysk port area on the 3rd of the month, as announced by President Zelensky. These tankers are vital for transporting Russian oil, which supports its wartime economy. Zelensky stated that Ukraine will continue to impose sanctions on Russia's 'shadow fleet' and highlighted the enhancement of Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities.

Source: Global TimesSun May 03 2026

Ukraine's Deep-Strike Campaign Escalates as Zelensky Orders Sweeping Military Reform

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

Ukraine intensified its long-range strike campaign against Russian strategic infrastructure in May 2026, targeting facilities like the Tuapse Oil Refinery and Shagol Airfield. These operations demonstrate Ukraine's growing drone warfare capabilities and strategic reach. Concurrently, President Zelensky announced major military reforms to enhance personnel retention and institutional professionalism. However, delays in U.S. weapons deliveries pose challenges to Ukraine's military efforts as Russia adapts and continues its attacks on Ukrainian cities.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat May 02 2026
The Transatlantic Fracture Deepens: US Troop Withdrawals, European Rearmament, and the Reshaping of Continental Security

The Transatlantic Fracture Deepens: US Troop Withdrawals, European Rearmament, and the Reshaping of Continental Security

Force MovementPolitical-MilitaryStrategic AssessmentHybrid

In May 2026, the U.S. announced the withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany, marking a significant reduction in its military presence in Europe. This decision, framed as a response to political remarks by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has raised concerns among NATO planners about the implications for European security. Concurrently, European nations are increasing their defense spending and capabilities, while Ukraine continues to innovate in its military operations against Russia.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat May 02 2026
The Transatlantic Fracture Deepens: US Troop Withdrawals, European Rearmament, and the Reshaping of Continental Security

The Transatlantic Fracture Deepens: US Troop Withdrawals, European Rearmament, and the Reshaping of Continental Security

Force MovementPolitical-MilitaryOperational

In May 2026, the U.S. announced the withdrawal of 5,000 troops from Germany, marking a significant reduction in its military presence in Europe. This decision, framed as a response to political remarks by German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, has raised concerns among NATO planners. Concurrently, European nations are increasing their defense spending, with Poland and Romania maintaining U.S. military support against Russian aggression. The evolving security landscape is further complicated by Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian military assets.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovSat May 02 2026
Russian President Putin During the meeting on developing genetic technologies in the Russian Federation (via videoconference).

Russia’s Oil Refinery Capacity Just Hit a 16-Year Low. Ukraine Did That with Drone Strikes

Military OperationsLogisticsOperational

Ukrainian forces launched drone strikes on the Tuapse oil refinery in Krasnodar Krai, Russia, on 1 May, marking the fourth attack in two weeks. The strikes reignited fires at the facility, which had previously been extinguished, and are part of a campaign to degrade Russia's oil production capacity. This campaign aims to disrupt military logistics and reduce state revenue from oil.

Source: 19FortyFiveFri May 01 2026
SR-71 Blackbird Hitting Mach 3

An SR-71 Blackbird Might Have Flown Near Chernobyl’s Radiation in 1986. The Crew Didn’t Know. A Geiger Counter Was Waiting When They Landed.

ISR ActivityMilitary OperationsInformational

In April 1986, a U.S. Air Force SR-71 Blackbird conducted a reconnaissance mission over the Barents Sea and Baltic region shortly after the Chernobyl disaster. The crew was unaware of the radiation risk during their flight. Upon landing, they were approached by a technician in protective gear with a Geiger counter to check for radiation exposure.

Source: 19FortyFiveFri May 01 2026
New report tracks Russia’s growing combat ground robot fleet

New report tracks Russia’s growing combat ground robot fleet

Weapons & EquipmentLogisticsOperational

Russia has developed and deployed hundreds of ground robotic systems in combat against Ukraine, with significant production scaling since 2022. The Kuryer, Varan, and Impulse-M are among the confirmed models actively used. As of April 2026, these systems are not under Western sanctions, highlighting a growing capability in unmanned warfare.

Source: Defense BlogFri May 01 2026

NATO's Eastern Flank in Transition: Exercise Sword 26, European Defence Autonomy, and the Escalating Ukraine-Russia Strategic Contest

Military OperationsPolitical-MilitaryOperational

NATO launched Exercise Sword 26 in Germany with 15,500 troops from 11 countries in April 2026, focusing on coordinated multi-domain operations. Ukrainian forces executed deep-strike campaigns against Russian targets, including oil infrastructure and military assets, reaching 1,400 kilometers into Russia. In response, Russia increased drone attacks and adapted its tactics. The U.S. also provided $400 million in defense funding to Ukraine.

Dmitri VolkovDmitri VolkovFri May 01 2026
Ukraine hit Russian Su-57s at remote airbase

Ukraine hit Russian Su-57s at remote airbase

Military OperationsWeapons & EquipmentOperational

Ukraine struck several Russian Su-57 Felon stealth fighters and one Su-34 Fullback at Shagol airfield in Chelyabinsk on April 25. The attack, confirmed by Ukraine's General Staff, aimed to reduce Russia's ability to target Ukrainian civilians. Independent satellite imagery corroborated the damage to the aircraft, marking a notable extension of Ukraine's long-range strike capabilities.

Source: Defense BlogFri May 01 2026

Europe's $864 Billion Defense Surge Reshapes the Transatlantic Security Order

Political-MilitaryLogisticsStrategic

European military spending surged to $864 billion in 2025, with Germany and Spain significantly increasing their defense budgets. The EU approved a €90 billion loan package for Ukraine, while Russia allocated $190 billion to military spending. This shift reflects a reorientation of European defense priorities amid ongoing threats from Russia and evolving transatlantic security dynamics.

Alexandra ReevesAlexandra ReevesFri May 01 2026